Iconic Ted's Fried Clams Restaurant in Maine Set to Reopen

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After being closed for years, an iconic fried clams restaurant in Shapleigh, Maine, called Ted's Fried Clams, appears to be making a comeback. The property at 222 Emery Mills Road in Shapleigh has been sold, and commenters on a local Facebook group have reported seeing work being done on the exterior of the former restaurant location.

Why it matters

Ted's Fried Clams was a beloved institution in southern Maine, operating for over 70 years before closing in 2023 following a fire and a failed attempt to relocate to Sanford. The restaurant's return is seen as a win for the local community and a sign of resilience for a classic Maine dining establishment.

The details

Ted's Fried Clams first opened around 1950 and quickly became known for its iconic fried seafood. The family-run operation closed in 2023 after a fire at the Shapleigh location and an unsuccessful move to a mini mall in Sanford. Now, the property in Shapleigh has been sold, and locals have reported seeing work being done to the exterior, indicating the restaurant is preparing to reopen.

• Ted's Fried Clams first opened around 1950.
• The restaurant operated for 72 years before closing in 2023.
• A fire at the Shapleigh location in 2023 led to the restaurant's closure.
• Ted's Fried Clams attempted to relocate to Sanford, Maine, but that location eventually closed due to 'safety concerns'.
• The property at 222 Emery Mills Road in Shapleigh has now been sold, and work is being done on the exterior, indicating the restaurant is preparing to reopen.

What’s next

It's unknown when the Ted's Fried Clams restaurant will officially reopen, but the work being done on the exterior suggests the new owners are preparing to revive the beloved eatery.