JimB - Good guidance for steamers, but the original question was about butter clams. I would never steam a pot of butter clams and eat them that way unless you somehow numb your gag reflex. Steam to get them out of the shell, sure.

I'm a fanatic about steamer clams. I agree 100 percent that the family style with a major pot full and dipping butter is how steamers are meant to be. Add a cup of clam nectar on the side and I'm in heaven.

FYI - Theres another seed sale at Taylors fathers day weekend, for those who want to grow or supplement your own. You can get a thousand manillas for under $10, and in 2 years with a little luck you have clams galore. All you need it a beach to plant them on.