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Calamari in California

Made for those who consider crispy calamari the only acceptable way to start a meal.

Based on 739 Opinions
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Updated July 2026
01
Cap't Loui image 1
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Seafood restaurant

Seafood boils shine with fresh flavors in a vintage setting filled with classical jazz. Calamari is a standout, seasoned with Cajun and lemon pepper for a tasty bite. The cozy, clean space offers gloves for peeling shrimp, making dining easy and relaxing.

Fresh and tasty calamari stands out with a special mix of Cajun and lemon pepper seasoning. It pairs well as an appetizer alongside fries and other seafood dishes.

People are saying

"The seafood here is super yummy and really fresh."

"The bathroom here is spotless and has mouthwash."

"The calamari with Cajun and lemon pepper was chef's kiss."

Good to know

1

They offer $1 oysters all day on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

2

The lunch special costs $17 and includes one pound of seafood with potatoes and corn.

3

Parking is available on-site and in a paid structure across the street.

02
Trattoria da Sofia image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant captures authentic Naples vibe with lively atmosphere and live music. Calamari shines with a lemony sauce, ranking among the best. Quaint decor and indoor-outdoor seating add charm for all guests.

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.

03
Pizzeria Republica image 1
Pizza restaurant

Wood fire oven sets a stylish space with warm lighting and soft R&B. Calamari fritti is golden brown and crispy with a spicy marinara. Patio seating adds charm while a full bar serves fresh margaritas and cocktails.

Golden brown and crispy outside with a tender chew inside defines the calamari fritti here. It comes with a spicy, well-seasoned marinara sauce that enhances the flavor.

People are saying

"The food here was outstanding and prepared with care."

"I found the pasta here to be really good."

"I highly recommend the calamari; it was really good."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily from 4 PM to 6 PM with discounted drinks and food.

2

During happy hour, pizzas are priced at $15 with a great beverage selection.

3

The restaurant is conveniently located just 0.2 miles from The Orpheum Theatre.

04
Lobster-Guys Long Beach image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seafood shines with fresh ingredients and standout dishes like lobster rolls and bisque. Calamari fries add a crispy crunch that pairs well with other seafood. Cozy seaside vibe and friendly atmosphere make dining relaxed and enjoyable.

Calamari comes as crispy fries that pair well with other seafood dishes. It appears alongside items like lobster tacos and fish and chips, offering a fried, crunchy texture.

People are saying

"The lobster tacos were balanced, flavorful, and not too heavy."

"I'm still thinking about their delicious clam chowder."

"I enjoyed the calamari fries; they were perfection."

Good to know

1

Expect a 15-minute wait for clam chowder during busy hours.

2

The clam chowder costs over $14 for a small bowl.

3

They do not provide forks; bring your own if needed.

05
Jemma Hollywood image 1
Italian restaurant

Open kitchen and Harry Potter-themed decor create a lively, welcoming space. Calamari offers a crispy texture with two tasty sauces, perfect with cocktails like Niki and Basil Marg. Complimentary cocktail service adds a unique, enjoyable touch.

Crispy texture stands out in the calamari, served with two delectable sauces. It pairs well with cocktails like the Niki and Basil Marg, making it a tasty appetizer option.

People are saying

"The pizza and pasta at this dinner spot are incredible."

"You have to try the crispy provolone cheese; it's amazing and gooey."

"The calamari here is so tasty and crispy."

Good to know

1

Happy hour is available at the bar, but not throughout the restaurant.

2

Valet parking costs $30 for dinner and the show.

3

Parking nearby costs $33, which is convenient for theatergoers.

06
Ly Heng Restaurant image 1
Cambodian restaurant

Cambodian restaurant serves crispy calamari and salt and pepper squid with bold garlic and pepper flavors. Enjoy generous portions in an elegant, mom-and-pop setting. Quick seating and service keep the experience smooth and inviting.

Fried calamari comes out crispy and perfectly seasoned with a touch of lime. Salt and pepper squid offers a flavorful alternative with the right balance of garlic and pepper.

People are saying

"I found the food to be fresh and delicious."

"The broth in their soup is so amazing, it makes your eyes roll back."

"The fried calamari is crispy and perfectly seasoned."

Good to know

1

Parking is challenging because it's street parking in City Heights.

2

The portions are large, often enough to share between two people.

3

The seafood mix is priced at $20, which is on the expensive side.

07
Fermentation Lab Japantown image 1

Space features high ceilings and elegant decor with varied seating. Fried calamari is perfectly crispy and well salted. Atmosphere stays relaxed and lively with music low enough for easy talk, and well-behaved dogs add to the friendly vibe.

Fried calamari comes out perfectly crispy and salted just right. Calamari misto offers a good portion and pairs well with other dishes like squid ink pasta with uni.

People are saying

"The food here is rich, flavorful, and delicious."

"The squid ink pasta and Katsu Loco Moco were standouts for dinner."

"The calamari is perfectly crispy and salted just right."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm with a selection of food and drinks.

2

They offer $2 oysters during happy hour, making it a great deal.

3

Parking can be difficult, so plan accordingly before your visit.

08
Giorgio's image 1
Italian restaurant

Small dining room offers simple elegance and a warm vibe with generous Italian dishes. Fried calamari is light and crunchy, while sautéed calamari is extremely flavorful. Staff know regulars by name, adding to the welcoming feel.

Fried calamari comes out light and crunchy, making it easy to enjoy. Sautéed calamari also stands out as extremely good and flavorful.

People are saying

"The food here is cooked just perfectly."

"The Italian food portions here are huge and delicious."

"The fried calamari is lite and crunchy."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to the restaurant's small size and popularity.

2

The restaurant offers a ravioli sampler for those who want to try multiple dishes.

3

Expect reasonable prices for the quality of food served.

09
SUPTEA LAB image 1
Tea house

Bright, clean space with welcoming seating invites relaxed hangs. Fried calamari stands out with perfect crunch and great flavor. Unique menu offers adjustable sweetness and dairy-free options, making it a fresh choice for tea lovers.

Fried calamari offers a perfect crunch and flavorful taste with a well-sized portion. It pairs well with other dishes like salt and pepper tofu and popcorn chicken.

People are saying

"Their fruit teas are so refreshing and made with real fruit."

"The popcorn chicken is juicy, crunchy, and well-seasoned."

"The calamari here has a perfect crunch and is flavorful."

Good to know

1

They often run special promotions such as BOGO (Buy One, Get One Free)!

2

I paid $7 for a regular milk tea with boba, including tax, and was surprised by the extra $0.30 charge.

3

Finding parking can be difficult due to narrow streets; consider using the Mobil Gas Station lot.

10
Florence Osteria & Piano Bar image 1

Majestic olive tree anchors a spacious patio with live piano music creating an elegant, relaxed vibe. Grilled calamari shines with refreshing brightness, perfect alongside flavorful, light dishes. Playful industrial loft design blends tradition and innovation, inviting guests to linger.

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 pudding here is so flavorful and thoughtfully curated."

"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.

11
Pinchy & Pals image 1
Restaurant

Tiny spot with a beachy vibe offers fresh seafood and generous portions. Calamari fries are crispy and tasty, pairing well with wings. Bright, clean space draws crowds near entertainment hubs, perfect for casual meals.

Sides like calamari fries come out crispy and tasty. The calamari itself is a solid choice alongside the wings.

People are saying

"The lobster roll was fresh, buttery, and packed with tender meat."

"The lobster bisque here is so rich and flavorful."

"The calamari here is packed with tender, flavorful pieces."

Good to know

1

During their soft opening, they offer a buy one roll, get the second half off promotion.

2

They have a buy-two-entrees deal with a free soup or smoothie.

3

They are running a BOGO 50% Off deal.

12
Ari’s Thai Eatery image 1
Thai restaurant

Modern space blends traditional Thai accents with stylish decor and vibrant greenery. Calamari offers a crunchy texture with light breading and seafood aioli. Warm, inviting atmosphere suits both dates and groups, with plenty of parking and a calm pace.

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."

"The calamari had a great crunch and the sauce was on point."

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.

13
Decore image 1
Restaurant

Cozy spot with intimate lighting sets a romantic mood. Calamari is lightly breaded and tender, perfect with suppli or lasagne. Authentic Italian dishes pair well with rare wines like Ruche, making it great for dates or small parties.

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."

"The calamari here is lightly breaded, tender, and fresh."

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.

14
Takuma Ramen & Sushi image 1
Japanese restaurant

Cozy dining space offers a calm vibe with Japanese instrumental music. Calamari is decidedly yummy, paired well with shrimp tempura hand rolls. Staff keep the place clean, serving authentic sushi and ramen flavors.

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."

"The ramen broth here is exploding with flavor."

"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.

15
Kingfriez image 1
Restaurant

Fries shine with Korean-style toppings like bulgogi and corn cheese, offering a unique taste. Calamari is tender and pairs well in combos with chicken. Enjoy a positive vibe inside with cool staff, comfy seating, and easy parking in a dedicated lot.

Calamari on top cooks perfectly with a tender texture. It pairs well with other options like bulgogi and chicken in combo dishes.

People are saying

"The Bulgogi in the loaded fries was unbelievably delicious."

"The fried chicken is crispy, sweet, and perfectly seasoned."

"The calamari on top was cooked perfectly."

Good to know

1

Parking at Kingfriez costs $3, even for short visits.

2

You can customize your fries with various seasonings, sauces, and toppings.

3

The kiosk offers more options than the visual menu inside.

16
Salt & Pearl image 1
Food and drink

Space blends sophisticated modern style with whimsy and offers indoor and outdoor seating including a well-maintained patio. Calamari is exquisite with fresh slaw and dipping sauce, fitting the crowd's love for gourmet substantial food. Atmosphere shifts from chill to lively, perfect for dining and socializing.

Exquisite calamari arrives with a fresh, tangy slaw and a well-crafted dipping sauce. The dish stands out alongside other seafood options like seared tuna and shrimp.

People are saying

"The seafood here, especially the oysters and salmon, is excellent."

"The prime rib here is juicy with flavorful, peppery skin."

"The calamari's slaw and dipping sauce were surprisingly highlights."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to avoid lines, especially on weekends.

2

Happy hour offers discounted sides and drinks from 4-6pm on weekdays.

3

Live music occurs every Thursday night, enhancing the dining experience.

17
Bahche image 1
Restaurant

Small spot with Greek charm and cozy, vibrant vibe. Calamari is tender and flavorful, perfect for starters. Long bar offers wine and beer, while outdoor seating adds fresh air.

Calamari comes prepared to perfection, tender and flavorful. It appears alongside other appetizers like hummus and dolmas, making for a varied and satisfying start.

People are saying

"The Greek Food, especially the grilled octopus and lamb chops, was amazing."

"The calamari here is prepared to perfection."

"The bread pudding dessert was moist, warm, and spiced."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for dinner service.

2

Expect a minimum 18% gratuity for parties of 6 or more.

3

Parking is plentiful in the surrounding neighborhood.

18
Vinarius Wine Bar & Restaurant image 1

Small Italian spot offers intimate atmosphere with live music and quaint decor. Calamari is tender and juicy with generous portions perfect for sharing. Known for impeccable food and wine pairings, it creates a warm, family-like vibe with tolerable noise.

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."

"The owner's passion for the wine is evident in every detail."

"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.

19
Bag O Crab image 1
Cajun restaurant

Robot servers add a unique touch to the cozy space filled with crab and lobster lights. Fried calamari is crispy and golden, perfect alongside the standout seafood boil. Warm vibes and friendly service make it a great spot for seafood lovers.

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.

People are saying

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

"The Cajun fries here are so tasty and crispy."

"The calamari here is really good and crispy."

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.

20
The Waves Taco Club image 1
Mexican restaurant

Bright walls with hand-painted murals create a lively vibe. Crispy calamari offers bold flavors with tender texture. Self-serve salsa bar adds variety of sauces to tacos and burritos loaded with fresh toppings.

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."

"I had the best burrito I ever had here."

"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.

21
Trattoria Daly image 1
Italian restaurant

Small Italian spot with an open kitchen and cozy vibe feels like a Roman hole-in-the-wall. Calamari fritti is crispy and tender, served with thin fries and rich marinara. Fresh roses and a charming back patio add to the warm, family-like atmosphere.

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."

"The calamari here is so fresh, light, and crispy."

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.

22
Fresh Off the Boat Fish Grill South Coast image 1

Eclectic Mediterranean spot shines with fried calamari served alongside unique dipping sauces. Cozy outdoor patio glows with warm candlelight and dark red cushions. Indoor bar offers a large TV for sports fans amid lively, loud music.

Fried Calamari comes with a bit of cole slaw and has tasty dipping sauces. The sauce served with it has a unique flavor that some might not enjoy.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh and delicious."

"The seafood here is so fresh and delicious."

"The fried calamari is a tasty appetizer with cole slaw."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers a great variety of tacos at discounted prices.

2

Dine-in specials on Taco Tuesday are not available for takeout.

3

Happy hour starts after 3:00 pm with beer specials.

23
Marino Restaurant image 1
Italian restaurant

Intimate Italian dining offers old-world charm and heated outdoor seating for comfort. Calamari shines with hot, crispy fried and grilled options paired with pasta. Warm, familial energy blends with refined design for a cozy, romantic vibe.

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."

"The Italian food here makes you feel so welcome."

"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.

24
One More Bite Dumpling House image 1

Small restaurant buzzes with lively chatter and kitchen sounds. Dumplings shine with high-quality freshness and open kitchen view. Fried calamari offers a soft, crunchy texture that pairs well with vegetarian options and other favorites.

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."

"The calamari here is soft and crunchy."

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.

25
Romanissimo Cucina Italiana image 1
Italian restaurant

Cozy Italian spot with authentic music and Roma decor sets a warm mood. Stuffed calamari with crab meat is a must-try, perfectly paired with pasta. Indoor and outdoor seating offer privacy and comfort for a relaxed meal.

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 Happy Hour food here is delicious and well prepared."

"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.

26
Tsuruya image 1
Ramen restaurant

Small, cozy spot with a family-run vibe and lively atmosphere. Ramen is authentic and flavorful, drawing steady crowds. Lightly fried calamari is crispy with perfect batter and great taste.

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."

"It's a cozy place with a welcoming vibe."

"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.

27
Ever After Tea Room & Eatery image 1

Bright, spacious interior with whimsical decor sets a lively, Parisian café vibe. Garlic Calamari is crispy and flavorful with a mild spicy kick. Pet-friendly outdoor seating adds charm, while semi-self-service kiosks keep ordering quick and easy.

Crispy and flavorful, the Garlic Calamari stands out with a nice crunch. It carries a spicy kick that leans toward the mild side but is noticeable.

People are saying

"The Taiwanese beef noodle soup is rich but not greasy."

"The desserts here are visually stunning and heavenly."

"The calamari is crispy and flavorful."

Good to know

1

To celebrate the grand opening on 4/29, they offer a limited free mini snow cake and free Sangaria, along with live music from 7 pm to 9 pm.

2

There was plenty of free parking available.

3

The establishment is pet friendly and offers pet friendly entrees.

28
Marcello Ristorante image 1
Italian restaurant

Quaint Italian spot offers intimate tables and a cozy atmosphere perfect for quiet chats. Fried calamari shines with exceptional flavor and pairs well with its sauce. Classic Italian American dishes are served with care in a relaxed, well-orchestrated setting.

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."

"The Nuova Capri Salad is like a Caprese, but elevated."

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.

29
Anchors Fish & Chips And Seafood Grill image 1

Seafood shines with Salt & Pepper Calamari that cuts easily and tastes great. Seating is spacious and comfortable, with quiet, low-stress vibes early on. The clean, simple setting keeps focus on the food, making it a cozy spot to enjoy.

Perfectly cooked calamari cuts easily with a fork and stands out as a top starter alongside crab cakes. Salt & Pepper Calamari offers a flavorful option that consistently impresses.

People are saying

"The fish and chips here are perfectly flaky and not greasy."

"The clam chowder is creamy with plenty of clam meat."

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

Good to know

1

They offer a full bar and a happy hour from 4-6pm on weekdays.

2

Parking is available nearby, especially after 7 pm.

3

The restaurant has both indoor and outdoor seating options.

30
Cornelio's Steak House image 1

Steakhouse boasts a modern members-only vibe with a quiet atmosphere perfect for conversation. Calamari features light breading and comes with two tasty sauces. Soft jazz music adds to the cozy yet upscale ambiance.

Light breading covers the calamari, served with two delightful dipping sauces. It arrives as a marvelous appetizer, cooked to perfection alongside other dishes.

People are saying

"The steak here is cooked to perfection."

"The steak here is juicy, tender, and perfectly seasoned."

"The calamari appetizer had a light breading and was great."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for dinner service, especially on weekends.

2

Expect to spend around $230 for three people, excluding gratuity.

3

A mandatory 18% gratuity is added to all bills.

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