What should I order at RJ's Cafe / New England Seafood?
RJ's Cafe / New England Seafood
New England Clam Chowder
Mentioned multiple times as fresh, flavorful, creamy, rich, and having clam in almost every bite. Customers praised it as wonderful and one of the best white chowders.
Lobster Bisque
Frequently highlighted for being rich, wonderful, and generous with lobster. Several reviewers specifically recommended it and enjoyed stealing bites of it.
Lobster Roll (hot and cold)
Highly recommended for being perfectly cooked, plump, sweet, and authentic New England style. Both hot and cold versions were praised by visitors.
Fish and Chips
Described as extraordinary, cooked to perfection, sweet, flaky, and comparable to the best fish fries from Buffalo. Several reviewers called it outstanding.
Deep Fried Whole Belly Clams
Loved for tasting like traditional New England lunch with mom, crispy, and authentic. Called the best you can find in Florida by one reviewer.
Seafood Mixed Platter (fish, shrimp)
Recommended for generous portions and perfection in every bite, combining multiple seafood items like fish and jumbo shrimp with sides.
Scallops
Praised as some of the best scallops ever had, cooked by the owner himself, indicating high quality and authenticity.
Clam Cakes / Clam Balls
Noted for being crispy, big, loaded with clams, hot, and delicious. Recommended by multiple reviewers alongside the chowder.
Hours
| Monday | Closed |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | 11 AM to 7 PM |
| Wednesday | 11 AM to 7 PM |
| Thursday | 11 AM to 7 PM |
| Friday | 11 AM to 8 PM |
| Saturday | 11 AM to 7 PM |
| Sunday | Closed |
About RJ's Cafe / New England Seafood
RJ's Cafe / New England Seafood is a New England restaurant and seafood restaurant in Port Charlotte, Florida. Reviewers consistently praise the fresh seafood, especially haddock, fried clams, whole belly clams, clam cakes, and lobster bisque, along with fast and friendly service. The restaurant is described as casual and cozy, with a local diner feel, and it offers dine-in, takeout, lunch, and dinner. It is priced in the $10 to 30 range and is known for serving local specialty seafood in a small, no-frills setting.
Amenities & services
Service options
- Onsite services
- Takeout
- Dine-in
Highlights
- Fast service
- Serves local specialty
Popular for
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
- Wheelchair accessible seating
Offerings
- Alcohol
- Beer
- Coffee
- Comfort food
- Quick bite
- Small plates
- Wine
Dining options
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Dessert
- Seating
- Table service
Amenities
- Restroom
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Cozy
Crowd
- Tourists
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
- Credit cards
Parking
- Free parking lot
- Free street parking
- Usually plenty of parking
Frequently asked questions
What is RJ's Cafe / New England Seafood known for?
It is best known for New England seafood staples, especially haddock fish fries, fried clams, whole belly clams, clam cakes, and lobster bisque. Reviewers repeatedly mention fresh, made-to-order seafood and say the haddock and clams are the standout items.
What dishes are most recommended at RJ's Cafe / New England Seafood?
The most recommended dishes include the haddock fish and chips, lobster bisque, clam chowder, hot lobster roll, and deep fried whole belly clams. Reviewers also call out the seafood mixed platter, lobster mac and cheese, and clam balls as strong choices.
What is the atmosphere like at RJ's Cafe / New England Seafood?
The vibe is casual, cozy, and no-frills, with several reviewers describing it as a small mom-and-pop spot with a local New England diner feel. It seems to work well for solo diners, lunch outings, and relaxed seafood meals, and some visits include live guitar and singing that make the room feel homey.
Is RJ's Cafe / New England Seafood good value, and what is the price range?
The price range is $10 to 30, and reviewers often describe the food as reasonably priced or a great price for the quality. People mention generous portions, like the fish and chips and seafood platters, and say the value is strong for fresh seafood in Port Charlotte.
When is the best time to visit RJ's Cafe / New England Seafood?
Reviewers say it can get busy around lunch and especially on Friday evenings, with some noting waits when arriving after 5 PM or around 6:30 PM. Going earlier in the day, especially at lunch, is the safest bet if you want faster service and a better chance of avoiding a wait.
Is parking available at RJ's Cafe / New England Seafood?
Yes. Free parking lot, Free street parking, Usually plenty of parking is available.
Restaurants like RJ's Cafe / New England Seafood in Port Charlotte
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