The Other Side of Woodmans

Most people know of Woodmans for their famous fried clams, steamers, chowder, and overflowing beers—the quintessential ending to a day on the beach.  As I have watched the restaurant line grow longer and longer over the years, I have noticed a trend in the smiling faces anxiously anticipating the taste of the familiar meal to their palates.  In fact, the meal is so familiar that often guests will visit one or even several times a week.  While you might think that the food alone is good enough to attract such a large crowd, I propose that there is another side of Woodmans that brings people back every year.

After working as an intern for the Woodman’s for two years, I have gotten to know different members of the family very well.  As you can imagine, working for a family business can be quite a challenge.  The family dynamics and pre-established close knit community were intimidating at first, but within minutes I came to know why the line grows longer every year.  

For me, going to work at Woodmans was like going home.  My co-workers became more like family members, and I was treated as though I had been a part of the Woodman clan for years.  I was invited to family gatherings, holiday celebrations, and it was imbedded into my brain that I was really welcome to stop by any time.

Yes the food is good, but it is the other side of Woodmans that makes the experience extraordinary.  In fact, I believe that people come to Woodmans every year because they too feel as if they are coming home, and they stand in the long line for the love, care, and consistency that exists behind each and every fried clam.  After all, “Home is not a place, it’s people.”

 

Renee Buchmoyer