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Guide to California

Fried calamari spots

Fried calamari that focuses on the quality of the catch rather than hiding the texture behind an overly thick, greasy breading.

Based on 628 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Waka Sakura Gardena image 1
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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.

Batter on the fried calamari stands out with a crispy texture. It arrives hot and delicious, making it a favorite dish alongside other seafood options.

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 seafood here is so fresh, especially the tuna."

"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.

02
Chef P's Restaurant image 1
Chinese restaurant

Cozy space with a slightly dated interior and a noticeable seafood smell. Large portions offer great value, especially the crispy fried calamari that stands out as a favorite. Limited vegetarian options and no air conditioning affect comfort on hot days.

Crispy texture stands out in their fried calamari. It consistently delivers a crunchy bite that makes it a go-to dish every visit.

Crispy calamari here stays fresh and crunchy even after a week. The perfectly crispy rings come with a flavorful dipping sauce that complements the dish well.

People are saying

"The Chinese food here is so delicious, especially the orange chicken."

"The crispy fried calamari here is the best I've ever tasted."

"The fried calamari is perfectly crispy without being greasy."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, but it's best to arrive early to avoid long waits.

2

The restaurant offers large portion sizes, often enough for two people.

3

Vegetarian options are limited, so check the menu beforehand.

03
Enchant LA image 1
Asian fusion restaurant

Garden-inspired decor with floral themes and whimsical lighting creates a chic, upscale atmosphere. Cozy seating and a private room support intimate gatherings and events. The space shifts to a lively bar scene with signature cocktails in the evening.

People are saying

"The brunch fusion here is amazing, especially the bulgogi quesadilla."

"The fried calamari here feels like stepping into a fairytale."

"The calamari here is gorgeous, like stepping into a fairytale."

Good to know

1

Enchant LA offers free underground parking for guests.

2

A gratuity of 18% is automatically added to all bills.

3

Happy hour is available during brunch with discounted menu items.

04
The Albright image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seaside restaurant on a pier offers huge outdoor deck with scenic views and patio seating where dogs are welcome. Atmosphere stays chill and cozy with Bob Marley music and heaters keeping the space warm. Counter service uses buzzers for orders, creating a casual, relaxed vibe.

Fried calamari comes with a spicy sauce that complements its beautifully coated and flavorful texture. It pairs well with other seafood dishes like lobster rolls and clam chowder.

Lightly breaded and fried to perfection, the calamari is tender and flavorful. It pairs well with spicy sauce and comes with complementary sauces that enhance the dish.

People are saying

"The seafood here is so fresh and delicious."

"The oysters here are super fresh and delicious."

"The fried calamari is crispy and seasoned just right."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is wheelchair accessible.

2

Expect long lines around noon; arrive early to secure a table.

3

Prices are effectively 10% higher due to a hidden fee.

05
Tokido Craft Ramen - Ramen CA image 1

Small ramen restaurant with anime-themed decor and manga-style wall art creates a fun, vibrant atmosphere. Seating is limited and space feels cozy, contributing to a warm, inviting vibe. Music often features JRock, enhancing the casual, lively environment.

Lightly battered rings and tentacles of squid come quickly with a mayonnaise sauce. The fried calamari serves as a solid appetizer alongside other dishes like Takoyaki.

Crispy texture stands out with a light, crispy batter and perfect seasoning. Calamari arrives well-prepared alongside other crispy appetizers like soft shell crab and panko shrimp.

People are saying

"The ramen broth here is savory, rich, and perfectly seasoned."

"The fried calamari was lightly battered and served quickly."

"The calamari is perfectly seasoned and so crispy."

Good to know

1

There is limited seating at the restaurant.

2

Prices were very reasonable, and the portions were generous.

3

Parking was free and easy to find in a big plaza.

06
dPlace Steak & Pasta image 1

Spacious steak house blends classy and casual vibes with dim lighting and modern interior design. Robots assist servers by delivering food, adding a tech-forward touch to the dining experience. Atmosphere shifts from quiet off-peak to lively and noisy when crowded.

Crispy outside and tender inside, the fried calamari has a light, crispy batter that is not oily. It comes with marinara and tartar sauce for dipping.

Calamari comes with marinara and tartar sauce and includes scissors for easy cutting. It stands out alongside kimchi rice and pasta as a strong dish.

People are saying

"The Kalbi here is tender, flavorful, and cooked perfectly."

"The fried calamari was so crispy, I ate it all."

"The fried calamari is perfectly crispy and tender inside."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required for groups of 18 or more with a $50 deposit.

2

An 18% gratuity is automatically added to all bills.

3

There is plenty of free parking available at the shopping plaza lot.

07
The Crab Bay image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seafood restaurant offers spacious seating with nautical dรฉcor and large tables for groups. Atmosphere stays quiet and chill, with a welcoming vibe and some sea-side decorations. Full bar complements the setting, making it suitable for relaxed dining.

Fried calamari comes in a generous portion and is generally good. It pairs well with sides like mac & cheese and cajun fries.

Fried calamari comes in a generous portion and tastes fresh. It pairs well with spicy ranch for added flavor.

People are saying

"The seafood here is so fresh, especially the calamari and lobster."

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

"The fried calamari here is good with a generous portion."

Good to know

1

Parking is easy and ample at the restaurant.

2

Reservations are not accepted, so expect to wait during busy times.

3

The wait time is about 30 minutes for Sunday dinner.

08
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.

Fried calamari often comes with mixed seafood combos like rolls and nigiri. Texture varies, sometimes chewy like rubber bands. Served alongside dishes like miso soup and ramen.

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.

People are saying

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

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

"The fried calamari is crispy and comes with two great dipping sauces."

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.

09
Quality Seafood Inc image 1
Seafood restaurant

Outdoor seafood market and restaurant sit right on a pier with ocean views and pier atmosphere. Casual, market-style setting offers fresh seafood with options to select live fish for grilling. Nearby activities include biking, kayaking, and boat rides, creating a lively seaside vibe.

Crispy and juicy fried calamari stands out here. It pairs well with other seafood like shrimp and crab, making it a solid choice for seafood lovers.

Fried calamari comes with light breading and a crisp texture. It pairs well with Cajun fries and stands out as a tasty seafood option alongside shrimp dishes.

People are saying

"The seafood here is so fresh, it tastes like it came straight from the ocean."

"The fried calamari was crispy and juicy."

"The fried calamari here is so crispy and juicy."

Good to know

1

During Lobster Fest, which runs from September to October, expect special deals.

2

Happy hour offers large portions at reduced prices, making it a great time to visit.

3

Parking is best found at the far left back of the parking garage.

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