Essex Seafood House (two) stands out as a hidden gem in Pierson, Florida, particularly for seafood lovers. Nestled along Route 40, this charming eatery has captured the hearts of locals and visitors alike with its fresh and delicious offerings. Customers rave about the remarkable fried clam bellies, heralded as the best in the area, made with fresh Ipswich clams flown in multiple times a week. The quick service and friendly staff create a welcoming atmosphere that complements the hearty, generous portions. Notable dishes include the grilled grouper, which has surprised many first-time visitors with its exceptional quality, and the seafood staples that make for an incredible dining experience. Guests appreciate the affordable prices, with meals ranging from $10 to $20, making it a budget-friendly choice. However, patrons should be mindful that Essex Seafood House operates on a cash-only basis. The unique setting—with views of pastures outside the windows—adds to its charm, making it a delightful stop for a scenic ride. Passionate reviews tout the restaurant as the go-to for Florida seafood, where flavors shine and freshness is paramount. For an authentic seafood adventure infused with local hospitality, Essex Seafood House (two) is certainly worth a visit.
Amenities and More
Accessibility
Has wheelchair-accessible car park
Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
Has wheelchair-accessible seating
Has wheelchair-accessible toilet
Service options
Has outdoor seating
Offers takeaway
Serves dine-in
No delivery
Highlights
Has fast service
Serves great coffee
Popular for
Popular for lunch
Popular for dinner
Good for solo dining
Offerings
Serves alcohol
Serves beer
Serves coffee
Serves comfort food
Serves healthy options
Quick bite
Serves small plates
Serves wine
Dining options
Serves lunch
Serves dinner
Serves dessert
Has seating
Amenities
Has toilet
Atmosphere
Casual
Cosy
Crowd
Good for groups
Popular with tourists
Planning
Doesn't accept reservations
Payments
Accepts debit cards
Children
Good for kids
High chairs available
Has kids' menu
Parking
Free of charge street parking
Free parking lot
Plenty of parking
Photos
Reviews For Essex Seafood House (two)
Mike Czosnek
Apr 29,2025
I’m from the coast of Maine, Essex Seafood House was a great find. Fish is very fresh! I had the clams, wonderful! Nice folks for service too. Prices were about half as much for the Clams that I would have in Maine! You won’t be disappointed.
Andy Bodnar
Apr 8,2025
The best fresh fried clam bellies! A little dive seafood place off route 40 that gets fresh Ipswich clams flown in 3 times a week! The bellies are shucked fresh, deep fried, and served immediately nice and hot! The cole slaw and fries are really good too, but the star of the show is the fresh fried clam bellies. Very friendly service too!
Dennis Ochs
Mar 14,2025
They always have great food and as always more than what you can eat services usually really quick. It's a small place so they get very busy. I had grouper the other day. Didn't even know you could get it around here and it was fantastic going back again. Been there a few times but it is a cash only restaurant. So make sure you have cash. Meals run between 10 and 20. I think mine was 12 and that included grouper in onion rings
Rod Ellison
Feb 14,2025
It's odd to look out the windows of a seafood restaurant and see cows but to be honest it's part of the charm. The food though.. really incredible with large portions at a great price. Really some of the best we've had in Florida! And as a biker it's a really nice short scenic ride to this inland destination. Well worth a visit for some great seafood. Try the fried haddock chunks or shrimp and onion rings and cole slaw. All Fantastic!
Bill Williams
Jan 26,2025
Truly amazing clams. The best we’ve ever had, and we have tried them alot of places.
Aesher Audette
Jan 23,2025
This may be the best, or one of the bedr seafood spots in mid florida. Im pleasantly suprised by the prices, and quality of food. This small, family style restaurant doesnt seat many, but when you're here, you're home.
Katie Kegg
Jan 19,2025
I’ve been looking for real steamer clams for so long and these were phenomenal
Martin Heenan Jr
Jan 19,2025
Easily one of the best meals I've had in a very long time! The clam strips were lightly breaded and fried perfectly with a little salt and pepper in the batter. And you have to have a slice of their homemade Boston cream pie! BRING CASH!!
Reviews For Essex Seafood House (two)