The Klamsteam has been serving steamed clams and beer to generations of Albanians (?). It’s a ramshackle tavern and marina on the wooded banks of the Mohawk River, located just outside of Albany, N.Y. I have been there twice, while in Albany on business. A friend from the area suggested the Klamsteam as a respite from the bland chain restaurants on nearby Wolf Road. I felt at home as soon as I entered. There is a long bar, then manned by an engaging Australian woman, a large selection of beer from the Northeast and beyond, a jukebox, and somewhat nautically themed dining area. We sat at the bar, sipped beer, chatted with the Australian and a few other people, then ordered clams (what else? – it’s the “Klamsteam”).
I have spent more years than I care to contemplate offshore in the Alaskan fishing industry, and hence have some basis for evaluating seafood. The Klamsteam’s clams – befitting the moniker – are great. They are gently steamed with white wine, herbs and clam broth, and taste as if they were fresh off the boat (presumably not a boat from the adjacent Mohawk , as if anything lives in the Mohaw, it may not be advisable to eat it…but I digress).
The Klamsteam is an iconoclastic and classic roadhouse, and worth the short drive from Albany. The menu also lists other varieties of fish and shellfish, and it looked like a good venue for live music weekend evenings. If I lived near Albany I would be a regular.
Pros: Clams and beer.
Cons: I dont live nearby.
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