In a large pot over medium heat, bring the water, clam juice, potatoes, clams, and bay leaf. to a boil. Turn heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10 minutes or until the potatoes are tender. Drain the solids but keep the broth reserved. Discard the bay leaf.

In the same pot over medium heat, fry the bacon until browned and crisp, about 5 minutes. Transfer the bacon to a plate lined with paper towels and discard all but 2 Tbsp of bacon fat.

Heat bacon fat over medium heat in the pot. Add the onions, celery, and garlic and cook, stirring often, for 5 minutes or until softened. Sprinkle in flour, and cook, stirring, for one minute. Gradually stir in reserved broth, mixing well to keep it smooth. Add reserved solids, bacon, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Reduce heat to low and cook for 5 minutes.

Stir in cream to taste, and heat without cooking.

Serve in bowls or mugs, and garnish with a pat of butter and a sprinkle of paprika. Serve with oyster crackers for a true New England meal!