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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks in California

Calamari and oysters

A raw bar that treats calamari with the same high standards they apply to their oysters.

Based on 838 Opinions
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01
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Coastal, upscale decor creates a relaxed yet refined atmosphere with a lowkey, salty vibe. Fresh, high-quality seafood dishes stand out alongside chef-prepared touches and carefully crafted cocktails. The space feels beautiful and comfortable, inviting diners to enjoy a calm, enjoyable experience.

Calamari fries stand out for their exceptional taste and freshness. They come from a menu that treats seafood with care, making them a notable choice alongside other dishes like crab cakes and oysters.

Incredibly fresh oysters come in half dozen mixes and feature on the happy hour menu. They consistently taste on point and pair well with other items like calamari fries.

People are saying

"The calamari fries here are out of this world."

"The oysters here are amazing and incredibly fresh."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended to secure a table.

2

Happy hour offers limited appetizers and drinks until 5:00 PM.

3

Expect to spend about $50 per person, possibly more with drinks.

02
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Fish market and restaurant combine with fresh seafood display behind a glass counter. Outdoor patio lined with cacti offers a relaxed coastal vibe and spacious seating options. The atmosphere feels buzzy and inviting, drawing people who appreciate fresh fish and casual dining.

Calamari steak stands out with rich flavor and tender texture. The Calamari Sandwich offers an addictive, satisfying bite with breaded calamari as a tasty highlight.

Fresh oysters arrive regularly, including west coast varieties. Oyster shooters come with a flavorful sauce, and raw horseradish pairs well with the crab cocktail and oysters.

People are saying

"I found the oysters here to be so good and fresh."

"The calamari is so tender and perfectly cooked."

Good to know

1

El Pescador Fish Market operates on a first come, first serve basis; no reservations accepted.

2

Expect long lines on Saturday afternoons, especially during peak hours.

3

Parking can be challenging; consider arriving early to secure a spot.

03
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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.

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

Oysters come with exceptional freshness and quality. Happy hour offers $1.50 oysters with a variety of food options.

People are saying

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

"The oysters here were amazing and 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.

04
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Seafood restaurant offers a cozy dining room with a pleasant, sometimes noisy atmosphere and air conditioning for comfort. It serves generous portions of seafood with bold flavors, attracting families and seafood lovers. The space inside is larger than it appears from outside.

Fried calamari comes with Cajun fries and pairs well with seafood dishes like Linguine Jambalaya and a black mussel boiler. It appears as a popular fried option alongside other seafood plates.

Fresh oysters come with a sweet taste. They serve them alongside wine and beer plus non-alcoholic drinks.

People are saying

"The calamari here has delicious, large portions for a reasonable price."

"I tried oysters for the first time and they were delicious."

Good to know

1

The seafood boil is very affordable with generous portions.

2

All dishes are served with two house-made, fresh sides.

3

They offer a good selection of different cultural sauces.

05
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Seafood market combines fresh seafood displays with a lively oyster bar and casual dining space. Atmosphere balances bustling market energy with enough quiet for conversation. Offers a community hub vibe where people shop and eat in one place.

Lightly battered and crisp, the calamari comes with two dipping sauces including a top-notch marinara. It serves well as an appetizer and pairs nicely with other seafood dishes.

Fresh West coast oysters stand out at the oyster bar. The raw bar offers a great selection alongside clam chowder and tuna melts.

People are saying

"The oysters here are so fresh and delicious."

"I thought the calamari was lightly battered and crisp."

Good to know

1

Parking is available at the back of the market.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially during peak hours.

3

Prices for fresh seafood are comparable to upscale restaurants.

06
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Seafood restaurant offers a laid-back atmosphere with a quiet and intimate vibe. Decor blends simple but eclectic elements, creating a relaxed but elegant setting. Fresh oysters and unique dishes attract those seeking quality and flavor in a cute and quaint space.

Calamari stands out as a popular appetizer choice. It pairs well with the bread app and complements other seafood dishes like oysters and salmon.

Fresh oysters come from various places and arrive with shredded horseradish and homemade cocktail sauce. The owner shucks oysters tableside, ensuring they are delectable and perfectly fresh.

People are saying

"The oysters here are incredibly fresh and delectable."

"The calamari here is outstanding and perfectly cooked."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for larger groups to ensure seating.

2

The fixed menu costs $85 per person, which should be noted in advance.

3

Happy hour offers discounts on drinks and appetizers, typically from 4-6pm.

07
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Seafood restaurant offers a refined atmosphere with live jazz music and dim lighting that creates a romantic vibe. Tables often feature decorations like rose petals and personalized cards for special occasions. The space combines an elegant setting with lively, sometimes loud music that fills the room.

Calamari comes in several styles here, including Point Judith and Kung Pao with a flavorful sauce. Dishes combine fried calamari with noodles or bright Asian flavors, offering tasty, tangy, and well-balanced textures.

Three different types of oysters come on ice, all very fresh. The raw oysters stand out as excellent and pair well with other fantastic appetizers like crab cakes and ahi tuna tartare.

People are saying

"The oysters here are so fresh and delicious."

"I enjoyed the Kung Pao Calamari with its sauce and noodles."

Good to know

1

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

2

Live music performances occur on Mondays, enhancing the dining experience.

3

Reservations are recommended, especially for weekends and special events.

08
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Modern, spacious steakhouse with live DJ and club-like atmosphere creates an energetic, loud vibe. Guests enjoy chic decor and upbeat music that balances liveliness with conversation. Birthday celebrations often include sparklers, adding to the festive mood.

Calamari stands out as one of the best dishes here. It pairs well with other favorites like steaks and crab cakes.

Oysters come fresh and fantastic here, standing out among other dishes like steaks and truffle fries. They deliver a high-quality seafood experience.

People are saying

"The oysters here were so fresh and divine."

"The calamari here is crispy and juicy."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3 pm to 5 pm with drinks under $10.

2

Cocktails are $9 and appetizers range from $3 to $9 during happy hour.

3

DJ plays on Thursday nights, enhancing the happy hour experience.

09
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Seafood restaurant overlooks marina with stunning harbor views and heated patio seating. Atmosphere feels romantic and relaxed, with tables arranged for optimal viewing of boats and yachts. Bar area offers drinks but lighting is dimmer compared to dining spaces.

Tender, slightly battered calamari stands out here, avoiding the over-fried texture common elsewhere. Fried calamari serves as a delicious starter alongside other good appetizers like crab cakes.

Oysters Rockefeller stands out with rich flavors and fresh ingredients. The oysters on half shell come with cocktail sauce, mignonette, horseradish, and lemon wedges, making them a solid choice.

People are saying

"I really liked the calamari appetizer."

"I loved the oysters Rockefeller; they were the best I've had in ages."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to avoid long wait times during busy brunch hours.

2

Brunch gets busy around noon, so arrive early for a better experience.

3

There is plenty of free parking available, including an overflow lot.

10
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Small space with gorgeous interior and chic decor creates an inviting, photo-ready atmosphere. Ambiance stays quiet and chill with house music setting a relaxed vibe. Creative cocktails and fresh sushi stand out amid close table arrangements.

Calamari cooked perfectly with a nice touch of lime. It has a salty flavor that stands out.

Oysters come alongside dishes like octopus and empanadas. They appear regularly on the menu and pair with items such as sushi and guacamole corn dip.

People are saying

"Annalise's recommendations for the oysters were great."

"The calamari here is cooked perfectly and nice with the lime."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with a special menu.

2

Metered street parking is available, but can be challenging during peak times.

3

Reservations are confirmed multiple times for larger parties.

11
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Spacious seafood restaurant with brand new Diamond pool tables and a large bar creates an energetic yet pleasant vibe. Seating includes picnic tables, offering a casual, inviting atmosphere with live karaoke and DJ entertainment. The place balances fun and relaxation without overwhelming noise.

Calamari here is consistently fresh and well-prepared. It pairs well with simple sides like fries and stands out among other seafood options.

Oysters come in dozen servings with options like Pacific Blue and Blue Point varieties. Happy Hour features oysters for $2 each, including an all-day Sunday deal.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the calamari and fries."

"The oysters here are delicious and super fresh."

Good to know

1

Happy hour is from 11 am to 7 pm, offering oysters for $2.

2

The venue hosts a pool tournament starting on December 7th; check Facebook for details.

3

Parking is easy and available across the street behind the buildings.

12
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Small seafood restaurant with mostly outdoor seating and a laid-back vibe. Atmosphere is relaxing and cool, with enough noise to feel lively but still allow conversation. Features include a patio with heaters, a small indoor bar with TV, and quick table turnover.

Crispy fried calamari stands out with its crunchy texture and freshness. It carries a salty flavor that hits the spot.

Oysters come fresh and briny, tasting like they just leapt out of the ocean. Happy hour offers them for a dollar and pennies with lots of lemon and two sauces. The menu includes an oyster bar with excellent, prepared-to-order seafood.

People are saying

"The oysters here were incredibleโ€”fresh and flavorful."

"The calamari here is so crispy and fresh."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3 to 6 PM with many items priced just a few dollars.

2

Enjoy $1 oysters and $3 battered fish tacos during happy hour on Tuesdays.

3

Parking is available behind the restaurant for easy access.

13
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Asian fusion restaurant offers beautiful marina views visible from every seat, creating an inviting and enjoyable atmosphere. Live jazz music on Thursdays adds an elegant, relaxing vibe with soulful energy. The bar serves notable cocktails, complementing the overall experience.

Large strips of calamari come with great breading and a perfect aioli. The flavor stands out as amazing and makes it a popular choice for snacks or meals.

Oysters here taste very clean and fresh. They come across as amazing and stand out as a highlight on the menu.

People are saying

"I recommended the calamari because it was perfectly crispy and tender."

"The oysters here are amazing, tasting so clean and fresh."

Good to know

1

Monday features all-day happy hour with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

Reservations are recommended for large parties, especially during busy times.

3

The restaurant offers military and veteran discounts for all patrons.

14
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Interior features rainforest and ocean themes with dark green and blue Portuguese tiles creating a cozy, immersive atmosphere. Space feels secluded and quiet despite being near a busy district, with well-crafted cocktails and fresh seafood complementing the setting.

Crispy calamari comes out light and golden, never greasy. It pairs with both cocktail sauce and zesty remoulade, each adding a distinct flavor.

Fresh, clean, and briny oysters come with a spicy mignonette that pairs well with a Sancerre. The oysters consistently deliver excellent flavor and quality alongside friendly service.

People are saying

"The oysters were fresh, clean, and briny."

"The calamari is crispy, light, and not greasy."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers $1 oysters all day, but check the timing.

2

The kitchen closes at 2:30 pm and reopens at 5 pm.

3

Valet parking is available for $9, which is recommended.

15
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Seafood restaurant with a remodeled interior featuring varied seating areas and a beautiful patio. Atmosphere turns loud during busy times due to new flooring and ceiling materials. Offers a relaxing yet energetic vibe with attentive service and a clean environment.

Calamari comes as crispy strips served as an appetizer. It pairs well with other starters like buffalo wings and tacos. The dish is consistently described as very good and tasty.

Fresh shucked oysters come sweet, buttery, and clean on the half shell. Pepper vodka oyster shooters add a unique twist, and both oyster preparations stand out as exceptional.

People are saying

"I tried the calamari and it was some of the best I've ever had."

"The oysters were so fresh, sweet, and clean."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3pm to close on Mondays with great specials.

2

Taco Tuesday features regular pricing, not discounts, for certain menu items.

3

The restaurant gets extremely busy around 6:30 pm; arrive earlier to avoid the rush.

16
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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.

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.

Oysters come very fresh and well-cleaned, with options for regular and large sizes. Grilled oysters pair well with beer and feature a delicious sauce balanced with just the right sourness.

People are saying

"The oysters here are super fresh and delicious."

"The calamari is perfectly crispy and well seasoned."

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.

17
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Small, family-run seafood restaurant with a Mexican vibe and cozy, welcoming atmosphere. Offers a wide array of fresh seafood and interactive service that suits casual lunches or relaxed dinners. Prices tend to be on the higher side, reflecting a more upscale, intimate setting.

Crispy texture stands out with the calamari cooked perfectly. The spicy dip and garlic butter flavor add bold taste.

Ginormous oysters stand out here, mostly tasty but occasionally foul-tasting. The oyster shooter pairs well with other dishes like piรฑa colada and enchiladas suizas.

People are saying

"The calamari is so crispy, and that spicy dip is amazing."

"The oysters here are ginormous and yummy."

Good to know

1

Karaoke starts at 10pm on Thursdays with a two-drink minimum.

2

For parties of more than six, an 18% gratuity is automatically added.

3

Expect to spend a significant amount; this place is not budget-friendly.

18
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Italian restaurant offers live music that creates an elegant and inviting atmosphere suitable for families and romantic nights. Interior features include beautiful murals and gardens, with a bar area enhancing the space. The vibe balances comfort and sophistication, making it feel special without being overwhelming.

Calamari fritti comes out tender and cooked perfectly. It stands out among the appetizers and pairs well with drinks and other dishes.

People are saying

"The calamari here is cooked perfectly and so good."

Good to know

1

The restaurant has a daily happy hour with affordable options.

2

Live music occurs on Friday nights starting at 7:00 PM.

3

Parking is free and readily available near the restaurant.

19
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Small, bright seafood restaurant with a calm and inviting atmosphere. Offers wide seafood selection including fish tacos and ceviche, served in a fast casual setting. Prices vary, with some items considered reasonable and others on the higher side.

Char grilling before frying gives the calamari a unique smoky flavor. It has a thinner coating unlike typical beer-battered styles and comes with a great sauce.

People are saying

"The calamari here is delicious with a great sauce."

Good to know

1

Happy hour specials are available, offering discounts on drinks and appetizers.

2

Expect to pay around $28 for four tacos and a tostada.

3

Vegetarian options are available upon request.

20
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Open air dining with patio seating offers views of the harbor and a dog-friendly atmosphere. Multiple TV screens provide entertainment, while real silverware and plates add a touch of formality to the casual setting.

Thursday nights feature $1.25 oysters with a variety from different regions. The Jade oysters stand out among four types offered, and the oyster shooter is a popular choice.

People are saying

"You can get raw oysters for $1.50 each on Thursdays."

Good to know

1

Oyster night on Thursdays features $1.50 raw oysters, making it a popular event.

2

Expect large crowds on Thursday nights due to the oyster special.

3

Parking is generally easy for quick meals, especially on weekdays.

21
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Dining happens beside water views with sights of sailing vessels and a marine breeze. Atmosphere blends romantic vibes with spots for singles at the bar. Sound dampening in booths adds comfort to the vibrant setting.

Calamari comes with shishito peppers and can be customized to exclude ingredients like pepper. The appetizer is well-prepared and enjoyable.

Oysters come with a tequila oyster shot option that stands out. They are fresh and highly praised. Staff expect you to mention oysters when ordering.

People are saying

"The calamari appetizer was great."

Good to know

1

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

2

Prime Rib is served on Fridays and Saturdays, a must-try for meat lovers.

3

Valet parking costs $6, but street parking is limited in the area.

22
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Patio seating offers breathtaking ocean views and an open window to the kitchen with a bar area. The vibe stays laid back with live music and sports on big TVs, creating a fun atmosphere. Locals gather here for excellent cocktails and fresh seafood dishes.

Freshness stands out in the fried calamari and oysters on the half shell. The calamari platter is smaller than expected but delivers solid flavor.

Oysters come fresh and clean, served both raw and in dishes like oyster po boys. Multiple dipping sauces accompany the oysters, which are small but packed with flavor.

People are saying

"The service here is amazing, making the oysters experience fun."

"I thought the calamari was the best I ever had."

Good to know

1

Parking is available in the structure just north of the pier plaza.

2

The restaurant offers a 10% military discount on the service memberโ€™s meal.

3

The location is steps away from the beach and the pier.

23
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Seafood restaurant with vibrant red decor and seafood-themed sculptures creates a cozy, calming atmosphere. A claw machine offers free food prizes, adding a unique, fun element. The space feels open and welcoming, suitable for families and casual dining.

Fried calamari comes out crispy and delicious. Quality stays excellent every time.

Fresh oysters come with a crisp, clean taste. Deep fried oysters offer a crunchy texture alongside other deep fried items like chicken wings.

People are saying

"I found the fried calamari to be delicious."

"The seafood boil here is seriously spectacular with a spicy kick."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted, so expect to wait during peak hours.

2

Parking is available, and there is plenty of space nearby.

3

The waitlist kiosk is user-friendly and notifies you when your table is ready.

24
Pier 88 Boiling Seafood & Bar Montclair image 1
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Seafood restaurant with spacious open dining and an interactive dining concept creates a lively, pier-like atmosphere. Music plays loudly, contributing to a high-energy vibe that suits groups and casual gatherings. Full bar offers fresh, well-crafted cocktails alongside local beers.

Fried calamari comes in large portions suitable for sharing between two to three people. Some servings are well-prepared and delicious, while others are not cooked well.

Raw oysters come fresh and excellent, often served with a michelada sauce that adds a mild kick. Fried oysters stand out as crispy and flavorful, joining other seafood like calamari and shrimp in the lineup.

People are saying

"I thought the raw oysters were to die for."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required for large parties to secure a reserved area.

2

Expect a 20-30 minute wait time during peak hours on weekends.

3

Parking is ample with a large lot available for guests.

25
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Seafood restaurant with an old-fashioned vibe and ocean views including sunsets and dolphins. Atmosphere features a fireplace and live music in the evenings, creating a cozy and lively setting. Upstairs bar offers a full ocean view and a unique conversation pit for drinks.

Ultrafresh calamari comes lightly breaded and seasoned to perfection. It pairs well with other starters like oysters and crab cakes, offering bursting flavors at reasonable prices.

Raw oysters come large, fresh, and delicious with a perfect taste. Fried oysters pair well with rice pilaf, offering a tasty option alongside other seafood appetizers.

People are saying

"The raw oysters here are amazing, large, and fresh."

"I found the calamari to be delicious and perfectly seasoned."

Good to know

1

Live music starts at 9 pm on weekends.

2

The main dining room is only accessible via stairs.

3

Happy hour menu is limited, making it hard to find allergy-friendly options.

26
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Italian restaurant offers beautiful outdoor patio and lovely bar with live music and romantic lighting. Atmosphere feels crowded yet lively, attracting diners seeking an authentic and vibrant experience. Dog-friendly outdoor seating adds a relaxed, inclusive touch.

Oysters come with mini hot sauce bottles that add a unique touch. They pair well with drinks and pasta, though some find them just fine while others report food poisoning.

People are saying

"I found the oysters to be fine."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers half-price appetizers from 4-7pm on weekdays.

2

Live music is featured on Wednesdays, enhancing the dining experience.

3

Reservations are recommended for special occasions like birthdays.

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