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Affordable calamari in California

Made for those who refuse to overpay for a night out but still insist on having both calamari and a budget-friendly bill.

Based on 739 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
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Italian restaurant

Small, intimate Italian restaurant with an open kitchen and cozy atmosphere that feels like a Roman hole-in-the-wall. Decor includes fresh roses on tables and a charming back patio that evokes Italy. The vibe is warm and family-like, with personal service and attention to detail.

Crispy and tender, the calamari fritti comes with thin fries and a flavorful marinara sauce. It stays crispy to the last bite and ranks among the city's favorites.

Prices stay affordable without cutting corners on food quality. Parking costs are low and easy to manage, adding to the overall value.

People are saying

"The Italian food here is delicious and fresh."

"It's a small, cozy spot with a great atmosphere."

"The food here is delicious and surprisingly affordable."

Good to know

1

Street meter parking is available near the restaurant.

2

There is a public parking lot behind the restaurant.

3

They allow guests to bring their own wine if called ahead.

02
Bag O Crab image 1
Cajun restaurant

Robot servers deliver food and drinks in a clean, cozy space decorated with fun sea creatures and crab and lobster lights. The atmosphere feels warm and inviting with friendly vibes and a not too crowded layout. Seafood lovers find well-seasoned Cajun dishes and a seafood boil star that stands out.

Fried calamari comes out crispy and golden, making it a solid starter. It pairs well with other seafood like crab legs and stands out as a great choice on the menu.

Prices stay consistently affordable across the menu. Combo 1 offers a filling meal without stretching the budget.

People are saying

"The seafood here is so fresh and perfectly seasoned."

"The calamari here is really good and crispy."

"I found the prices to be affordable and filling."

Good to know

1

Happy hour from 2 to 5 PM offers half-off fries and beers.

2

A lunch special is available for those wanting meat.

3

The portions of food are large for the prices paid.

03
Surfside Fish House image 1

Casual restaurant with clean, bright decor and a cool San Diego mural creates a welcoming, chill atmosphere. Seating includes outdoor patio and bar options, with a lively vibe that can get noisy when busy. Offers affordable, fresh seafood with a serious focus on quality and variety.

Fried calamari comes with two dipping sauces and tastes delicious. It stands out as a very good dish alongside other seafood options.

Prices stay very affordable with generous portions. Food quality matches the neighborhood vibe without stretching the budget.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the happy hour with $2 tacos and $6 wine."

"The food here is delicious and surprisingly affordable."

"I had the best calamari I've ever had, it was so crispy."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily from 4 to 6 pm with $2 fish tacos and $1.5 oysters.

2

Expect generous portion sizes for the price, especially the kids' shrimp basket.

3

The restaurant offers a variety of seafood dishes at very reasonable prices.

04
Ramen Ichiraku & Sushi image 1
Japanese restaurant

Japanese restaurant with Naruto anime theme and colorful wall art creates a cozy, lively vibe that appeals to anime fans. Large LED displays and anime character decorations add to the friendly, fun atmosphere. Seating accommodates around 35 to 60 people in a clean, quaint space.

Lightly fried with a delicious crunch, the calamari is never gamey. It pairs well as a side or with ramen, consistently on point in flavor and texture.

Affordable ramen bowls stand out here, offering good value. Squid and vegetable tempura come crispy, light, and well-seasoned without costing much.

People are saying

"The ramen here is rich, flavorful, and satisfying."

"I found the food to be amazing and affordable."

"The calamari is lightly fried with a delicious crunch."

Good to know

1

The restaurant has reopened and is here to stay.

2

The Ramen spot is open until 9:30 PM, but may have low customer traffic.

3

The website menu and paper menu list different prices.

05
Waka Sakura Gardena image 1
Sushi restaurant

Sushi arrives on a high-speed conveyor belt after ordering via touchscreen tablets at each booth. The space feels sleek and modern with a relaxed, upscale vibe that encourages taking time to enjoy the meal. It offers a quieter, more controlled experience than typical revolving sushi spots.

Fried calamari comes out hot with a soft and crunchy texture. The batter stands out for its crispiness and flavor.

Fresh ingredients come with super affordable prices here. Lunch offers quick, tasty sushi that feels like a slice of Japan without the cost.

People are saying

"I considered their sushi the best I experienced in the states."

"I found the sushi to be fresh, yummy, and affordable."

"The fried calamari here is delicious and served hot."

Good to know

1

Expect a long wait if arriving after 5pm; join the Yelp Waitlist to save time.

2

The restaurant is located on the second floor of Tokyo Central, accessible by stairs or elevator.

3

Parking is easy and available near the entrance of Tokyo Central.

06
Cantoo Latin Asian Rotisserie image 1
Asian fusion restaurant

Basement setting with grotto-like atmosphere and remnants of previous restaurants creates a unique, slightly shabby but welcoming vibe. Latin American music plays softly, adding to the peaceful and cozy environment. Spacious and clean interior feels like a blend of casual dining and cultural character.

Fried calamari comes with a unique spice that adds a nice kick. Salt and pepper calamari stands out as over the top amazing and pairs well with dishes like stir-fry soy sauce noodles.

Roasted duck and other dishes come at very inexpensive prices. The menu offers real homemade food that stays extremely fair and affordable for the community.

People are saying

"The empanadas are huge, with delicious fillings like shredded beef."

"These chili oil dumplings are delicious and make your tongue sing."

"The fried calamari here has a unique, enjoyable spice."

Good to know

1

The restaurant celebrates its one-year anniversary in December with special events.

2

Expect a diverse menu featuring unique Asian-Venezuelan dishes.

3

Portions are generous and reasonably priced for the area.

07
Picaro image 1
Spanish restaurant

Small space with eclectic decor and a nostalgic old-world charm creates a lively, friendly atmosphere reminiscent of Spain. Loud mariachi music often fills the room, making conversation difficult. Known for delicious sangria and excellent Spanish food, it draws groups and date nights despite the crowd.

Fried calamari comes out crispy and well-cooked. It appears alongside dishes like seafood paella and pairs well with sides such as asparagus and fried potatoes with garlic aioli.

Affordable prices keep the bill under a hundred dollars for four people, excluding alcohol. Inexpensive tapas plates and great oysters make it easy to enjoy good food without spending much.

People are saying

"The seafood here is packed with garlicky olive oil and flavor."

"I loved the inexpensive tapas plates and generous portions."

"You have to try the calamari; it's perfectly cooked."

Good to know

1

Picaro offers a Sangria happy hour with $14 for a pitcher until 7pm.

2

There is a 4% surcharge for credit cards, but no additional fees.

3

Picaro can only charge two cards per bill for large groups.

08
Crazy Fish Grill Express image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seafood restaurant offers shaded outdoor seating with a laid-back atmosphere and views of busy streets. The vibe is chill and welcoming, attracting those looking for a healthy, fresh seafood option in generous portions.

Calamari comes with a citrus vinaigrette that brightens the dish. The green lime juice adds a sharp kick to the flavor. The crazy calamari bites stand out as a notable option.

Prices stay consistently affordable across the menu. Food quality matches the value, making dining here a budget-friendly choice.

People are saying

"The fish and chips were hot, fresh, and delicious."

"The outdoor space is comfortable and shaded."

"I thought the food was affordable and very good."

Good to know

1

The outside seating is dog friendly.

2

Food is ready within 5 minutes during busy hours.

3

The prices are budget-friendly for two people.

09
Sona Fusion Kitchen image 1
Asian fusion restaurant

Asian fusion restaurant with a modern, spacious interior featuring cement tones and forest green plants creates a welcoming, lively atmosphere that can get loud due to popularity. Large seating areas and a private dining space accommodate groups and gatherings comfortably.

Crispy and well-fried calamari comes with a perfectly seasoned batter. The sauce pairs nicely, enhancing the overall flavor.

Offers very reasonable prices with every dish being affordable and tasty.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, with bold, flavorful fusion dishes."

"The meat dishes are tender, flavorful, and affordable."

"The calamari is perfectly crispy and well-fried."

Good to know

1

Sona Fusion Kitchen is open until 1:30 AM, making it convenient after a long park day.

2

Disney cast members receive a 10% discount on dine-in orders over $60 with proof of employment.

3

There is plentiful parking available near the restaurant.

10
La Bella Pizza Trattoria Italiana image 1

Small restaurant offers authentic Italian flavors with a cozy, intimate atmosphere that encourages casual conversation. Both indoor and outdoor seating accommodate guests, often accompanied by live music. The vibe feels warm and homey, making it suitable for quiet dinners or date nights.

Fried calamari comes out light and cooked just right with a delicious sauce on the side. Portions tend to be smaller than expected, sometimes requiring extra sauce from other dishes.

Prices stay consistently affordable while delivering solid quality. Food offers great value without stretching the budget.

People are saying

"The pasta here is al dente and deliciously rich."

"The calamari here is delicious and cooked just right."

"I thought the food was surprisingly affordable for the quality."

Good to know

1

There is easy parking available in the back lot, which is free.

2

Ask for the price of the specials before ordering.

3

Pasta dishes can range from $28 to $50.

11
Katsu Bar image 1
Restaurant

Open, clean space with ample seating and casual, welcoming atmosphere. Music selection adds to the vibe while food arrives hot and fresh from kiosk ordering. Menu features crispy katsu dishes and affordable portions with a focus on fresh ingredients.

Fried calamari comes with an excellent fry batter that stands out. It appears as a popular side option alongside dishes like Chicken Katsu Tteokbokki.

Yubu pockets cost $14, showing a clear value. Overall, prices stay affordable throughout the menu.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is super tasty with generous portions."

"I thought the chicken katsu here was the best I had ever tasted."

"The calamari here is pretty damn amazing."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait time of about 10-15 minutes during peak hours.

2

The menu features a variety of Asian dishes, including katsu, sushi, and poke.

3

Weekday specials are available, offering good deals on select items.

12
ocean house fish grill image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seafood restaurant offers a casual atmosphere with clean, cafeteria-style seating that feels quiet and cozy despite bare benches. The vibe suits laid-back lunches or intimate dates, with fresh fish dishes standing out as the main attraction.

Fried calamari comes out tender and flavorful, served with cocktail sauce and a lime wedge. Preparation is quick and accurate, making it a standout appetizer alongside other seafood dishes.

Prices stay consistently affordable while the food maintains quality. This spot offers good value without sacrificing taste.

People are saying

"I found the fish and chips here to be huge and satisfying."

"The calamari here is tender and flavorful."

"I thought the food was really quality and affordable."

Good to know

1

The meal cost $16 and includes a choice of sides.

2

Parking is convenient and available near the restaurant.

3

The restaurant is kid-friendly and has a laid-back atmosphere.

13
Blue Lotus Vietnamese Cuisine image 1
Vietnamese restaurant

Bright lighting and crowded tables create a busy, authentic atmosphere reminiscent of Hanoi's streets. The space feels cozy and inviting, often filled with families enjoying meals together. Ample parking and a clean environment support a comfortable dining experience.

Crispy texture stands out with the calamari cooked to perfection. It pairs well in a spring roll, vermicelli bowl, or served over rice and egg plate.

Prices stay consistently very affordable here. Meals come at a budget-friendly cost without surprises.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be amazing and plentiful."

"I found the parking lot to be ample and there was plenty of space."

"The calamari here is so good and crispy."

Good to know

1

Parking is ample, but it can fill up during peak hours.

2

Prices are affordable, making it a budget-friendly dining option.

3

Expect longer wait times during dinner hours, especially on weekends.

14
The Lincoln Pub & Grub image 1

Small bar with penny-covered counter and jukebox creates a cozy, relaxed vibe. Crowd mixes ages, keeping energy chill and friendly. Outdoor patio offers casual seating, while affordable drinks and food draw steady, easygoing gatherings.

Unique calamari features a light panko breading with a hint of cinnamon and sugar instead of the usual heavy coating. It pairs well with a Mae Ploy and ranch dipping sauce and often comes with extras like jalapenos and pork belly.

Food costs stay very affordable here. Prices feel inexpensive without sacrificing quality.

People are saying

"The bar here is super cheap, I paid under $35 for drinks and appetizers."

"The crowd here is so cool, it's a great place to hang out."

"I found the food to be very affordable."

Good to know

1

Most appetizers and basic cocktails cost only $5.

2

More complex meals range up to $10 but never exceed it.

3

You do seat yourself and scan their barcode for the menu.

15
Sushi Deli 3 image 1
Sushi restaurant

Lively sushi house with casual local vibe and loud indoor seating that challenges conversation. Multiple seating areas include a shaded outdoor space with casual Japanese decor and a bar area popular for watching sports. Offers affordable sushi with fresh options and generous portions.

Crispy fried calamari comes with two dipping sauces, one spicy and one creamy. It has a good crunch and stands out as an addictive appetizer.

Creative dishes and sushi rolls come with affordable prices that feel fair for the quality. Portions stay generous while keeping the menu diverse and inexpensive.

People are saying

"I thought the Japanese food here was delicious and inexpensive."

"I thought the sushi was delicious and inexpensive."

"I thought the calamari was very good and addictive."

Good to know

1

Sushi Deli 3 has a 90-minute seating limit.

2

Expect a 30-minute wait during peak dinner hours.

3

Parking is limited and may require a short walk.

16
Dumpling Master image 1
Chinese restaurant

Roomy interior combines modern, fresh design with clean, soothing atmosphere. Outdoor patio offers dog-friendly seating and a relaxed vibe. An unlimited sauce bar adds interactive flavor options to the dining experience.

Fried calamari comes out well-cooked with lots of flavor. It pairs well with other dishes like cucumber salad and dumplings.

Prices stay consistently affordable across the menu. Food quality matches the low cost, especially the pork dumplings which offer great value for the price.

People are saying

"The Chinese food here, especially the dumplings, is delicious and flavorful."

"The food here is great and affordable."

"I particularly liked the fried calamari."

Good to know

1

Dumpling Master doesn't accept reservations.

2

Expect a wait during peak hours, especially on weekends.

3

Credit cards are accepted, but cash is preferred for smaller orders.

17
Omeli Kitchen image 1
Vietnamese restaurant

Small, intimate space with charming interior featuring hand-painted artwork and delicate decor. Atmosphere varies from cozy and welcoming to dark and overcrowded, with occasional loud music. Popular spot with a mix of Vietnamese and Peruvian dishes, often busy and open late.

Meals come at incredibly affordable prices without sacrificing taste. The spot draws a college crowd looking for delicious and budget-friendly options.

People are saying

"The Vietnamese food, especially the pho broth, was smooth and clean tasting."

"The calamari here has a perfectly crunchy exterior and soft interior."

"The staff here makes you feel so welcome and right at home."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended on weekends due to high demand.

2

Parking is plentiful and easily accessible near the restaurant.

3

The restaurant is open until 1am, perfect for late-night dining.

18
Volare Italian Restaurant image 1
Italian restaurant

Small, family-owned Italian restaurant with a cozy, authentic atmosphere and dated interior that feels like a time capsule. The place hosts an eclectic group of local regulars and offers a locals-only secret vibe. It serves excellent Italian food with standout dishes like lasagna and Oso Buco.

Italian-style fried calamari comes in a thin, crispy crust with a super tender inside. The portion is generous and the calamari is not greasy, paired with a craveable dipping sauce.

Prices stay very affordable here, making it easy to enjoy good food without spending much. The setting feels a bit cramped but peaceful enough to focus on the meal.

People are saying

"The Italian food here is amazing, just like in Boston or NYC."

"The food here is good and affordable."

"The calamari here is super tender with a thin, crispy crust."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required for large parties to ensure seating.

2

Expect longer wait times during peak hours, especially on weekends.

3

A 20% service charge is automatically added to all dining bills.

19
Xclusive Mexican Kitchen image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with a handsome interior featuring an island bar and half booth seating creates a welcoming, classy atmosphere. Live mariachi music plays at select times, setting a perfect volume for conversation without distraction. Several TVs show sports without creating a typical sports bar vibe.

Calamari varies here, with some dishes like calamari and camarones a la diabla showing good preparation. Other options, such as the Calamari and Taco Sampler, come off as bland and lack flavor.

Food offers good value with an affordable check. The restaurant is not inexpensive but balances cost and quality well.

People are saying

"This Mexican food is so flavorful, I'd call it 'Fuego'."

"The food here is delicious and filling."

"I had the best calamari I have ever had."

Good to know

1

Happy Hour specials are available all day on weekdays.

2

Taco Tuesday features discounted tacos and drinks.

3

Expect a 20-minute wait for food during busy hours.

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