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California's best

Calamari spots

Made for those who insist that calamari be judged solely on the tenderness of the squid and the crispness of its coating.

Based on 813 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Vinarius Wine Bar & Restaurant image 1
Vinarius Wine Bar & Restaurant image 2
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Small Italian restaurant offers an intimate, authentic atmosphere with live music and quaint decor. Noise stays tolerable even when full, creating a warm, family-like vibe. Known for impeccable food and wine pairings, it stands out as a local favorite.

Italian dishes here deliver authentic flavors with unbelievable taste and quality. The food reflects a local, family-owned approach that stays true to traditional recipes.

Tender, juicy calamari arrives hot with an amazing sauce. Portions are generous, often enough to share among three, and the preparation is consistently well-done and appetizing.

People are saying

"The seafood pasta here is incredible and perfectly balanced."

"I found the Italian cuisine here to be authentic and flavorful."

"The calamari here is tender, juicy, and served with an amazing sauce."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4 to 6pm with various food and drink deals.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially during busy times.

3

The restaurant offers a $40 happy hour deal that includes food and drinks.

02
Al Toque Peruvian Kitchen image 1
Peruvian restaurant

Peruvian restaurant with elegant design and beautiful murals creates a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Lively traditional music enhances the dining experience. Spacious seating accommodates groups comfortably.

Offers authentic Peruvian flavors with high-quality ingredients. The ceviche stands out as flavorful and true to tradition.

Fried calamari comes out tender with great flavor. It pairs well with other seafood dishes like ceviche and arroz con mariscos.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, authentic, and delicious."

"I found the food here to be authentic and delicious."

"The calamari here is so tender and flavorful."

Good to know

1

The restaurant provides excellent service for group events.

2

Portions are perfect for sharing among friends or family.

3

Reservations are recommended for larger parties to ensure seating.

03
Trattoria Daly image 1
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.

Classic Italian dishes deliver authentic flavors with a small menu focused on quality. The food consistently tastes authentic and delicious.

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.

People are saying

"The Italian food here is delicious and fresh."

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

"I found the Italian food here to be really authentic and delicious."

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.

04
Colori Kitchen image 1
Italian restaurant

Cozy Italian restaurant with a homey vibe and charming plant ambiance. Atmosphere feels like visiting an Italian mama's house, relaxed and warm. Small space with about nine tables, popular for romantic dinners and casual nights out.

Italian dishes come with homemade pasta and a genuine Milanese flair. The atmosphere includes greetings in Italian by an Italian woman, adding to the authentic vibe.

Trancio di calamari comes tender and well-seasoned, cooked just right. Calamari steak stays flavorful and soft, even for those who usually avoid squid.

People are saying

"The food here is authentic, flavorful, and made from scratch."

"The homemade pasta here tastes authentically Italian and delicious."

"The calamari steak is so tender and flavorful."

Good to know

1

You can bring your own wine to Colori Kitchen without a charge.

2

Colori Kitchen moved from downtown to Harvard Heights, which is a nicer area.

3

The prices are reasonable, especially for the quality of food.

05
Trattoria da Sofia image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant offers authentic Naples vibe with quaint, detailed decor featuring football shirts and painted marble. Atmosphere feels lively and transporting diners to Italy, with live music enhancing energy. Indoor and outdoor seating provide charming views and accommodate various group sizes.

Authentic Sicilian plates and flavorful Italian food create a cozy, genuine atmosphere. Football shirts decorate the space, adding to the Napoli-style vibe.

Calamari comes with a lemony sauce that stands out. It ranks among the best ever had and is a favorite alongside arancini among appetizers.

People are saying

"The pasta here is so fresh, made in house."

"I found the food to be amazing and truly authentic Italian."

"I thought the calamari was the best I ever had, served with a lemony sauce."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends to secure a table.

2

Happy hour runs from 4 to 5 PM with generous portions of bites and drinks.

3

Parking can be challenging; expect to drive around to find a spot.

06
Tsuruya image 1
Ramen restaurant

Small, cozy ramen restaurant with a compact interior featuring bar seating and tables. Atmosphere feels friendly and lively, with a family-run vibe and genuine care for food quality. Known for authentic, flavorful ramen that draws steady crowds despite limited seating.

Ramen here stands out for its authentic flavor and deeply traditional preparation. The service also reflects genuine Japanese hospitality.

Lightly fried calamari comes out very crispy with a perfect amount of batter and a wonderful taste.

People are saying

"I found the spicy tonkotsu ramen to be phenomenal and deeply savory."

"I found the ramen here to be really authentic and tasty."

"The Spicy Tonkotsu Ramen has an exquisite broth and thin noodles."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted, and seating is available in a clean alleyway.

2

Parking can be difficult, so plan to arrive early.

3

Expect long wait times as Tsuruya gets busy quickly.

07
Florence Osteria & Piano Bar image 1

Majestic olive tree anchors a spacious patio with live piano music enhancing an elegant, relaxed atmosphere. Playful industrial loft design blends tradition with innovation, inviting guests to linger. Energy shifts smoothly as live music transitions to a DJ deck later in the evening.

Menu features authentic Italian flavors with a variety of dishes including amazing pasta and great desserts. The ambiance aims for beauty but the dining pace can feel rushed, affecting the overall authenticity.

Grilled calamari comes out light and fresh with a refreshing brightness that stands out among appetizers. It pairs well with other dishes that are flavorful yet not heavy.

People are saying

"The live music here creates amazing vibes and ambiance."

"The pasta here is handmade and tastes so authentic."

"The calamari here is light, fresh, and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

Live jazz performances occur every Friday and Saturday night starting at 9pm.

3

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends to avoid long wait times.

08
Decore image 1
Restaurant

Cozy restaurant with gorgeous interior featuring warm colors, rustic touches, and intimate lighting creates an elegant, romantic atmosphere. Guests enjoy authentic Italian cuisine paired with rare wines like Ruche and unique cocktails. The vibe suits romantic dates, friendly gatherings, and small private parties.

True Roman cuisine shines with authentic pasta and dishes that capture classic Italian flavors. Food and drinks deliver a delicious, authentic taste that stands out in Southern California.

Lightly breaded and tender, the calamari offers a fresh and delicate texture. It pairs well with other dishes like suppli and lasagne for a varied meal.

People are saying

"The Italian food here is amazing, especially the pasta and lasagna."

"This Tiramisu is creamy, balanced, and the best I've ever had."

"I found the Italian food here to be so authentic and delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are limited to 90 minutes for dinner service.

2

Decore charges a $25 corkage fee for bringing your own wine.

3

Happy hour offers discounted drinks and appetizers.

09
Takuma Ramen & Sushi image 1
Japanese restaurant

Small dining area offers a cozy, calm atmosphere with relaxing Japanese instrumental music. Staff maintain a clean, comfortable space with authentic sushi and ramen flavors. The place draws a quiet, peaceful crowd seeking quality Japanese cuisine.

Rich ingredients create an authentic taste in both ramen and sushi. The flavors stay true to traditional Japanese recipes with a friendly staff enhancing the experience.

Calamari comes as a decently yummy dish often paired with items like pork gyoza and shrimp tempura hand rolls. It fits well alongside other favorites such as Tonkatsu Ramen.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is delicious and incredibly fresh."

"I found the ramen here to have an authentic taste."

"I thought the calamari was decently yummy."

Good to know

1

The parking lot is shared with a number of businesses and can be busy.

2

The restaurant has an extensive menu with vegetarian options available.

3

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted; cash is also welcome.

10
NAM Kitchen image 1
Asian fusion restaurant

Spacious Asian fusion restaurant with modern clean interior and artistic cultural decor creates a relaxing vibe. Music and food videos add to the atmosphere, which is family friendly despite some noise from open seating. Free noodle refills and well-spaced tables support a comfortable dining experience.

Flavors stay true to traditional recipes with authentic Pho and other Vietnamese dishes. Every bite offers comforting, genuine tastes that reflect classic cooking.

Crispy calamari comes with a great batter that is not overly breaded. It offers a full flavor and pairs well as an appetizer alongside spicy wontons.

People are saying

"The Vietnamese food here has the most flavorful broth I've ever had."

"The pho broth here is rich, flavorful, and truly authentic."

"The calamari here has a great batter and is full of flavor."

Good to know

1

Parking is available in a small lot just for the area.

2

Expect the restaurant to get packed by 6 PM; arrive early to avoid the dinner rush.

3

The food is served quickly, even during busy hours.

11
The Waves Taco Club image 1
Mexican restaurant

Bright walls showcase hand-painted murals and vibrant artwork that draw attention throughout the space. A self-serve salsa bar offers a variety of sauces and toppings, adding flavor options to meals. The atmosphere combines lively music with a casual, downtown vibe.

Tacos show authentic flavor with careful preparation and attention to detail. The setting supports a great vibe for enjoying authentic Mexican food.

Crispy calamari shines with a tender inside and bold flavors. Both tacos and burritos load up on fresh toppings and offer a perfect balance of textures.

People are saying

"I found the tacos here to be amazing, especially the chipotle shrimp."

"The tacos here have such an authentic flavor and great presentation."

"I tried the calamari tacos; they were life changing."

Good to know

1

Parking is available around the corner from the restaurant.

2

The restaurant does not have public restrooms for customers.

3

Expect no wait to order on Sunday nights.

12
One More Bite Dumpling House image 1

Small restaurant with open kitchen where dumplings and buns are made in view. Atmosphere is lively and chatty with some background noise from kitchen activity and utensils. Offers variety of dishes including vegetarian options and is known for high-quality dumplings.

Freshly made dishes deliver authentic dumplings and dim sum with good portions. The food tastes genuine and reflects traditional flavors.

Fried calamari comes out soft and crunchy with a satisfying texture. It stands out as a favorite dish alongside other items like shumai and fried rice.

People are saying

"These dumplings are some of the best I've ever had."

"The shrimp udon and beef udon were delicious."

"I found the dumplings and food here to be amazing and authentic."

Good to know

1

Parking is available near the restaurant.

2

The wait time to get a table is reasonable.

3

Table seating isn't for more than four people; larger groups may need to wait.

13
Marino Restaurant image 1
Italian restaurant

Intimate Italian dining space with old-world charm and timeless elegance creates a cozy, romantic atmosphere. Warm, familial energy blends with refined design and exceptional hospitality, evoking a sense of home and special occasion. Heated outdoor seating adds a comfortable option for guests.

Offers delicious Italian food with a focus on authentic dining that captures the true Italian experience.

Hot, fresh, and crispy fried calamari stands out here. Grilled calamari also appears alongside dishes like pasta with clams.

People are saying

"The food and hospitality made me feel like family."

"I experienced an authentic Italian dining experience with unforgettable food."

"I found the calamari to be hot, fresh, and crispy."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially during peak hours.

2

Valet parking is available for a hassle-free arrival.

3

Tomato Wednesdays feature dishes from Sal's personal garden during summer.

14
Romanissimo Cucina Italiana image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant offers cozy atmosphere with authentic Italian music softly playing. Well-spaced tables and beautiful Roma decor create a warm, inviting setting. Both indoor and outdoor seating provide privacy and comfort, enhancing the dining experience.

Every dish bursts with authentic Italian flavor made with care. The menu features classic favorites like carpaccio di manzo, lobster ravioli, and rack of lamb. Service is attentive and genuinely Italian in style.

Stuffed calamari stands out with crab meat filling and pairs well with pasta dishes like fettuccini. The calamari is consistently delicious and often recommended.

People are saying

"The Italian food here tastes like you're actually in Italy."

"The food here is so authentic, it feels like you're in Italy."

"I loved the stuffed calamari; it was delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily from 4 pm to 6 pm with food and drink specials.

2

Expect a variety of food options during happy hour for around $60 total.

3

The restaurant is dog-friendly on the patio for those with pets.

15
Marcello Ristorante image 1
Italian restaurant

Quaint Italian restaurant with intimate tables and a cozy, warm atmosphere that stays quiet enough for conversation. The vibe is relaxed and well-orchestrated, attracting diners who appreciate classic Italian American dishes served with care.

Food features authentic Italian flavors and comes very well cooked. Dishes focus on fresh ingredients and traditional preparation.

Fried calamari comes out simple and carefully executed, with a taste that stands out and pairs well with the sauce. It looks like typical Italian versions but delivers a notably exceptional flavor.

People are saying

"The Italian food here is authentic and perfectly cooked."

"The calamari here is tender and not rubbery."

"I found the authentic Italian food here to be very good and well cooked."

Good to know

1

The dinner menu includes a variety of Risottos, Seafood, Veal, Ossobuco, and Pizzas.

2

The lunch menu is more concise with limited entrees, but includes sandwiches.

3

Reservations are recommended during peak hours to avoid long wait times.

16
Little Roma Restaurant image 1
Italian restaurant

Small Italian restaurant with a cozy neighborhood feel and family-friendly dining. Atmosphere is warm and welcoming, often lively and sometimes noisy. Features include a covered outdoor patio with dense greenery and a large wall mural depicting Italy.

Pizzas and meals serve authentic Italian fare with a great variety of dishes. Food tastes really good and stays true to traditional Italian flavors.

Fried calamari comes out crispy and not rubbery. It stands out alongside the seafood dishes and pasta options.

People are saying

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

"I found the authentic Italian meals to be delicious."

"I found the calamari was not rubbery and tasted great."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on Friday and Saturday evenings.

2

Happy hour drinks are available before 6pm with $5 wine options.

3

The restaurant offers generous portions at reasonable prices.

17
Trenta Pizza & Cucina and Trenta Lounge image 1

Outdoor dining dominates with a large, heated patio converted from a parking lot, featuring al fresco seating and a full bar. Atmosphere feels warm and inviting, blending authentic Sicilian style with lively live music. Indoor space is small and cozy, creating a slightly cramped feel during busy times.

Authentic Italian pizza and Sicilian dishes stand out here. The pasta and desserts also reflect genuine Italian flavors.

Fried to perfection with thin, crispy breading, the calamari stays fresh and tender inside. It pairs well with a spicy garlic aioli that complements its flavor.

People are saying

"The Italian food, especially the pizza and pasta, tasted like it was from Italy."

"I found the Italian food here to be very authentic and delicious."

"The calamari's breading is thin, crispy, and perfectly seasoned."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited; valet service is the only option available.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially for outdoor seating.

3

The kitchen closes 10 minutes before the restaurant closes.

18
Seaburry Restaurant image 1
Seafood restaurant

Restaurant combines Sri Lankan-American fusion decor with an intimate, cozy atmosphere featuring colorful murals and traditional masks. Music varies weekly, including jazz and authentic Sri Lankan sounds, creating a calming yet festive vibe suitable for groups and special occasions.

Spices, textures, and aromas match authentic Sri Lankan food perfectly. Dishes offer a homey, well seasoned taste with fresh ingredients and a unique, personal touch.

Calamari comes with a Sri Lankan spice twist and appears in a sampler with other tasty dishes. Butter-fried calamari from the ร  la carte menu stands out as especially delicious.

People are saying

"The Sri Lankan food here is so authentic and flavorful."

"I found the Sri Lankan food here to be so authentic and tasty."

"The calamari here is delicious, especially the butter-fried kind."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for larger groups to ensure seating.

2

The restaurant offers a $20 lunch buffet on weekends.

3

Kid-friendly options are available, and spice levels can be adjusted.

19
Maestro Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Outdoor patio offers warm lighting and live mariachi music, creating a lively yet relaxed atmosphere. Indoor space fills with excited chatter, making it quite loud. Seating is comfortable and the building has a sleek design.

Authentic Mexican cuisine shines with well-seasoned dishes and rich queso fundido paired with freshly made tortillas. Live entertainment adds a joyful, genuine vibe to the experience.

Calamari comes with a Chinese chili sauce that adds a spicy kick. It is well-seasoned and often stands out among appetizers.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is amazing, especially the enchiladas."

"The food here is authentic, with tender meat and flavorful broth."

"The calamari was flavorful and well-seasoned."

Good to know

1

Mariachi entertainment is available on Thursdays, with boleros on some Saturdays.

2

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with discounted appetizers.

3

Reservations are recommended for busy nights, especially during live events.

20
Asumare Peruvian image 1
Peruvian restaurant

Tiny space fits about three small groups, creating an intimate and casual vibe with chilled atmosphere and authentic Peruvian aromas. Music matches the relaxed mood, drawing in those seeking genuine cultural flavors. The setting feels comfortable and unpretentious, emphasizing quality over size.

Dishes like lomo saltado and ceviche de pescado deliver authentic, bold Peruvian flavors. The food feels soul-warming and stays true to traditional tastes.

Lightly fried and tender, the calamari stays fresh and not rubbery. It offers a full flavor without being greasy, making it a great shareable dish.

People are saying

"The food here is authentic, soul-warming, and bursting with incredible flavors."

"I found the authentic Peruvian food here bursting with incredible flavors."

"The calamari is perfectly fried and full of flavor."

Good to know

1

The restaurant can only accommodate around 16 people maximum.

2

Parking is limited to street parking only.

3

There are no prices displayed inside the restaurant.

21
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.

Sushi here tastes fresh and authentic, matching traditional Japanese flavors closely. The atmosphere feels modern yet maintains an authentic vibe throughout.

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

People are saying

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

"The tuna here is so fresh, especially the fatty toro."

"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.

22
THAI FAVORITE CUISINE image 1
Thai restaurant

Small, casual Thai restaurant with a cozy, inviting atmosphere and bright, clean interior after renovation. The space feels comfortable and spacious, with a private room for large parties. Aromas of authentic Thai cooking fill the air, creating a vibe reminiscent of a night market.

Smoky wok-char flavor defines the authentic Thai noodle dishes here. Stir-fried eggplant tastes like a genuine Chinese stir-fry with oyster sauce, while pad see ew and Tom yum soup deliver classic Thai flavors. The choo chee salmon curry is creamy with perfectly cooked salmon but less traditional in taste.

Salted egg calamari with shrimp stands out for its savory, crispy texture and strong Asian flavors. Fried calamari offers a classic crunch that complements the unique salted egg sauce well.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, flavorful, and consistently great."

"The Wagyu curry was rich, fragrant, and crave-worthy."

"The authentic Thai food here is so flavorful and fresh."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, and seating is usually available immediately.

2

The restaurant offers a lunch special that includes a variety of items at a good price.

3

Parking is easy, but the lot is small and can fill up quickly.

23
Fire My Pasta image 1
Italian restaurant

Space combines tiled walls, stone tile floors, and a polished copper bar to create a dark and swanky atmosphere. Music plays loudly, contrasting with the otherwise intimate and chill vibe suited for dates or casual meals. A full bar and a pet-friendly outdoor patio add to the relaxed setting.

Italian dishes here have a fresh and authentic taste that closely matches cuisine from Italy. Pasta stands out as particularly true to traditional recipes.

Calamari fritti stands out with excellent quality and crisp texture. It pairs well with their variety of pastas and creative alcoholic drinks.

People are saying

"The food, especially the pasta and pizza, was delicious."

"The service here was spectacular and professional."

"The calamari here was excellent."

Good to know

1

On Monday nights, they offer pasta specials for $15.99.

2

On Wednesdays, they have martini specials.

3

Street parking is available, but can be tough to find.

24
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.

Food blends authentic Venezuelan and Latin flavors with Chinese influences, like the unique arroz chino. Dishes such as the BBQ duck and empanadas reflect genuine recipes, made by owners with roots in both cultures.

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.

People are saying

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

"I loved the authentic Venezuelan flavor here."

"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.

25
Fortuna Ristorante Italiano image 1
Italian restaurant

Small Italian restaurant blends modern design with traditional elements in a warm, inviting ambiance. Outdoor seating offers heated, shielded comfort ideal for conversation, while indoor space feels lively and energetic. Seating inside can be uncomfortable due to chair design.

Dishes showcase authentic Italian cuisine made with high-quality ingredients. The setting feels warm and inviting, blending cozy and refined vibes.

Lightly breaded and tender, the calamari stands out as a perfectly cooked and delicious appetizer. It fits well with the menu's focus on fresh, traditional Italian dishes.

People are saying

"The Italian food here tastes straight out of Italy."

"The Italian food, especially the pappardelle, is pure silk and deeply comforting."

"The calamari here is fantastic and generous."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially during peak dining hours.

2

Prices are reasonable for the quality of food and service provided.

3

Parking is available nearby, but it can get crowded during weekends.

26
Pizzo's Pizzeria at Millenia Otay Ranch image 1

Open kitchen and rustic decor create a warm, inviting space with a laid-back atmosphere. Heated outdoor patio offers seating with a breeze, though sun exposure can be strong. The place draws a mix of families and couples, making it suitable for casual get-togethers and date nights.

Offers authentic Italian taste with dishes that capture traditional flavors. Serves food in a warm setting that complements the genuine cuisine.

Great breading and awesome flavor make the calamari stand out. It arrives fresh and crispy, often served alongside mussels that evoke an Italian vibe.

People are saying

"The Italian food, especially the pizza and pasta, was fantastic."

"The calamari here is fresh, crispy, and has awesome flavor."

"I found the Italian cuisine here to be truly authentic."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends to avoid long wait times.

2

Parking is limited, so arrive early to secure a spot.

3

Expect wait times of up to 60 minutes during peak hours.

27
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.

Simple, authentic Italian flavors shine through in the pizza and pastas here. The dishes use fresh ingredients and avoid unnecessary fusion, creating a genuine, intimate dining experience.

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.

People are saying

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

"The authentic Italian food is made even better by the chef's personal touch."

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

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.

28
Buona Forchetta San Clemente image 1

Small, intimate space with tables close together creates a lively, noisy atmosphere filled with a happy buzz. Decor and ambiance reflect authentic Italian style, offering a beach town relaxed vibe that complements the dining experience.

Fresh ingredients create authentic pasta and pizza with rich, traditional flavors. Servers share deep menu knowledge that enhances the genuine Italian vibe.

Calamari fritti stands out as a highlight, prepared with a crisp texture and fresh flavor. It pairs well with other dishes like Margherita pizza and Buona Forchetta Pappardelle pasta.

People are saying

"I found the Italian food here to be authentic and delicious."

"I loved the authentic Italian food and atmosphere here."

"I've never had calamari this good before."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as the restaurant gets very busy.

2

Parking can be difficult due to the restaurant's popularity.

3

The restaurant offers a plant-based menu for dietary preferences.

29
Ariโ€™s Thai Eatery image 1

Modern space blends traditional Thai accents with stylish decor and vibrant greenery. Atmosphere feels warm and inviting, with a cozy yet clean vibe. Plenty of parking and a calm pace make it suitable for dates or groups.

Food offers authentic Thai flavors with fresh ingredients and beautiful presentation. It captures the essence of traditional Thai comfort food well.

Crunchy texture stands out with a light, not dense, breading. Served with a seafood aioli sauce that complements the crispiness well.

People are saying

"This Thai food is seriously delicious and amazing."

"The Modern dishes are perfectly cooked with amazing, balanced flavors."

"I found the Thai food here to be truly authentic and spicy."

Good to know

1

Parking is available in a strip mall plaza with free parking.

2

Expect a busy atmosphere during peak hours, especially on weekends.

3

Prices can be high; a small plate and beef can exceed $77 with tax and tip.

30
Villa Capri Carmel Valley image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant offers casual indoor seating with a great view and outdoor dining near parking. Atmosphere suits both romantic dates and group gatherings with generous portions and authentic dishes. Special touches include a dog menu and a recently revamped menu by an Italian chef.

Food captures authentic Italian flavors and brings back memories of Italy. Dishes taste genuine and are consistently very tasty.

Fried calamari comes in a generous portion and stands out for its quality and crispiness. It pairs well with fresh bread and butter, making it a popular appetizer choice.

People are saying

"The Italian food here, especially the pasta, is amazing."

"I found the desserts here to be amazing."

"The food here is authentic and transported me to Italian holidays."

Good to know

1

Mondays have no corkage fee, making the restaurant busy on that day.

2

Tuesdays offer 50% off on select bottles of wine.

3

The restaurant accommodates large parties easily.

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