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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks in San Diego

Calamari

Calamari that is fried to a light, golden crunch without the rubbery texture that makes most versions a chore to eat.

Based on 690 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Trattoria da Sofia image 1
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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.

02
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.

03
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.

04
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.

05
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.

06
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.

07
Pho Leo & Grill image 1
Restaurant

Spacious restaurant offers a calm vibe and modern Asian design. Seating is comfortable with firm cushions and ample space for groups. Calamari is a standout with its crispy texture and popular crunchy coating.

Crispy texture stands out in the calamari. It appears as a popular appetizer with a well-liked crunchy coating.

People are saying

"The Vietnamese food here, especially the pho, is so flavorful."

"The beef ribs here are so tender, they just slide off the bone."

"The calamari here is amazing and crispy."

Good to know

1

The happy hour deal includes $3 drafts and $5 crispy wings.

2

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm on weekdays with a good selection of food.

3

The portions at Pho Leo & Grill are large, often leading to leftovers.

08
Eddie V's Prime Seafood image 1
Seafood restaurant

Panoramic ocean views create a stunning backdrop for an elegant, quiet dining experience. Calamari shines with a crunchy texture and generous portion, cooked to perfection. Attentive service and thoughtful touches like complimentary champagne enhance the refined atmosphere.

Crunchy texture stands out in the large portion of calamari served. The kitchen cooks all proteins perfectly, making the calamari very good.

People are saying

"The ocean view here is spectacular and to die for."

"The steak here felt like a fine dining experience, every moment."

"The calamari was perfectly seasoned and served with a spicy Asian sauce."

Good to know

1

Reservations are essential as the restaurant is often fully booked.

2

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

3

Valet parking is recommended due to limited street parking availability.

09
Sardina's Italian Restaurant and Bar image 1

Italian restaurant offers a warm atmosphere with lively noise and quiet spots. Calamari steak strips shine with a rich white sauce that enhances flavor. Outdoor patios welcome dogs, blending family charm with modern style.

Calamari steak strips stand out with a white sauce that adds rich flavor. The calamari appetizer consistently impresses with great taste and texture.

People are saying

"The Italian food here is out of this world, especially the pasta."

"The happy hour deals here offer excellent value."

"I thought the calamari steak strips were amazing."

Good to know

1

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

2

Parking is free but can be limited during peak hours.

3

The restaurant offers a half and half pasta menu for a great price.

10
Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar image 1

Upscale dining shines with elegant décor and dim lighting creating a timeless vibe. Chili calamari offers a bold flavor that impresses every time. Steak dishes pair perfectly with a notable wine selection and crafted cocktails for a refined experience.

Chili calamari stands out with its unique preparation and bold flavor. The calamari appetizer consistently impresses and is highly recommended.

People are saying

"The steak was cooked to perfection and barely required a knife."

"The Mac and Cheese here is elevated and unforgettable."

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

Good to know

1

Tomahawk Tuesday offers affordable steak options every Tuesday night.

2

Social hour features snacks and cocktails at reduced prices.

3

Valet parking costs $25 plus a $1.25 credit card surcharge.

11
El Pescador Fish Market image 1

Fresh seafood shines with calamari steak and a calamari sandwich that delivers rich flavor and tender texture. Outdoor patio with cacti creates a relaxed coastal vibe. Buzzy atmosphere invites casual diners who love fresh fish and spacious seating.

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.

People are saying

"The seafood here is so fresh and delicious."

"I thought the clam chowder was the best I ever had."

"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.

12
Surfside Fish House image 1

Casual spot with fresh seafood shines with its fried calamari served with two sauces. Bright decor and a San Diego mural create a chill vibe. Outdoor patio and bar add to the lively, welcoming atmosphere.

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

People are saying

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

"The fish and chips here are crispy and very good."

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

Good to know

1

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

2

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

3

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

13
Dunedin New Zealand Eats image 1
New Zealand restaurant

Big old craftsman house offers a dog-friendly patio with fireside seating and tiki torches. Calamari features crispy breading with a spicy jalapeño kick and a great dipping sauce. Cozy island vibe and lively weekend crowd make it a fun spot.

Breading on the calamari is perfectly crisp with a spicy kick from deep-fried jalapeños. Comes with a very good dipping sauce that complements the dish well.

People are saying

"You have to try the happy hour appetizers like the sliders and pretzel bites."

"The outdoor seating area is beautiful with tiki torches and plants."

"The calamari's dipping sauce is really good."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers $8 sliders, $7 wine/beer, and $8 appetizers every day.

2

Parking can be tricky; arrive early to secure a spot across the street.

3

A cake cutting fee of $15 applies if you bring your own cake.

14
Fortuna Ristorante Italiano image 1
Italian restaurant

Small Italian spot offers tender calamari that shines as a fresh appetizer. Warm, inviting vibe blends modern design with tradition. Outdoor seating stays cozy with heaters, while indoor space buzzes with energy despite uncomfortable chairs.

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.

15
Asti Ristorante image 1
Italian restaurant

Small Italian spot shines with golden calamari crisped to perfection and paired with a spicy marinara. Cozy, dim-lit space offers a lively atmosphere that buzzes with energy. Outdoor seating and a prominent bar add to its charm.

Golden, crisp, and impossibly light, the calamari comes with a spicy marinara sauce that hints at long-simmered tomatoes and a touch of heat. The sauce is very delicious and complements the crisp texture well.

People are saying

"The food here tasted amazing, truly incredible."

"The Italian food, especially the pasta, tasted amazing."

"The calamari is golden, crisp, and impossibly light."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for large groups to ensure seating.

2

A 20% gratuity is automatically added to the bill for large parties.

3

Expect higher prices for menu items, especially during peak hours.

16
Sushi Deli 3 image 1
Sushi restaurant

Lively sushi house offers affordable sushi with fresh, generous portions. Crispy fried calamari shines as an addictive appetizer with two tasty sauces. Casual vibe includes a shaded outdoor space and a bar area popular for sports.

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 found this to be an awesome spot for sushi dates."

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

Good to know

1

Sushi Deli 3 has a 90-minute seating limit.

2

Expect a 30-minute wait during peak dinner hours.

3

Parking is limited and may require a short walk.

17
Hawaiian Fresh Seafood At Centerpark Labs image 1

Outdoor seating offers synthetic lawn and Cornhole games, making it great for families and pets. Calamari quality varies but often pairs well with salad and is kid-friendly. Indoor space feels tight and less inviting compared to the chill, spacious vibe outside.

Freshness varies with the calamari; some find it tasty and enjoyable, while others think it is just okay or not good. It pairs well with salad and appeals to kids.

People are saying

"The seafood here is insanely fresh and delicious."

"The outdoor seating area has tables and umbrellas on the lawn."

"I thought the calamari was fresh and tasty."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3pm to 5pm with $2 off draft beers.

2

Taco Tuesday offers a dollar off each taco.

3

Expect long lines during peak lunch hours; arrive early.

18
Brisa Restaurant & Bar image 1

Small space with gorgeous interior and chic decor sets a relaxed vibe with house music. Calamari is perfectly cooked with a salty, lime touch. Creative cocktails and fresh sushi shine amid close tables.

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

People are saying

"The cocktails here are really good and well made."

"The food here is outstanding and unique for date spots."

"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.

19
Flama Llama image 1
Peruvian restaurant

Peruvian spot offers tender calamari with a fresh green salsa kick. Cozy vibe shines with hanging plants and an outdoor patio. Unique cocktails and mojo fries make it a lively, flavorful experience.

Tender texture and generous seafood portions define the calamari here. It pairs well with green salsa, adding a fresh kick to the dish.

People are saying

"The food here is incredible, full of flavor and fresh."

"You have to try the chili wontons; they're perfectly balanced."

"The calamari here is super crunchy and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers great deals on drinks and appetizers from 4-7pm on weekdays.

2

Reservations are not required but recommended during busy hours.

3

Expect a casual dress code; no formal attire needed.

20
Tapas & Beers | French and Spanish Restaurant image 1

Rustic charm meets modern flair with cozy atmosphere and outdoor seating. Calamari features a panko crust and sweet, dessert-like flavor with lime or lemon. Unique European flavors shine through fresh, farm-sourced ingredients blending French and Spanish influences.

Calamari comes with a panko crust and is served in strips. The sweet and sour version is very sweet, almost like a dessert. Lime or lemon are offered as condiments.

People are saying

"The food here is excellent, with subtle and blended flavors."

"The beer here is ice cold and delicious."

"You have to try the calamari; it was excellent."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially during busy times like theater shows.

2

The restaurant is wheelchair accessible with tables set up for easy access.

3

It's conveniently located just steps away from the Civic Theater.

21
STK Steakhouse image 1
Steak house

Modern steakhouse shines with perfectly breaded calamari and lively DJ beats. Rooftop bar adds a stylish vibe ideal for celebrations. Cocktails and steaks are top-notch, making it a fun spot for food and atmosphere.

Calamari comes out perfectly breaded and super tender. Preparation is spot on, making it stand out among other dishes.

People are saying

"I loved each dish I tried; the food was spectacular."

"The service at dinner spots was top-tier and made the whole experience effortless."

"The calamari here is amazing, thanks to the attentive staff."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs on weekdays from 2:30 to 6:30 pm with great deals.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially during busy weekends.

3

Parking can be challenging during holidays due to downtown location.

22
Volare Italian Restaurant image 1
Italian restaurant

Small, family-owned Italian spot with a cozy atmosphere and a locals-only vibe. Italian-style fried calamari is thin, crispy, and tender inside, served with a tasty dipping sauce. Standout dishes like lasagna and Oso Buco make it a must-visit.

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

People are saying

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

"It's like stepping into an old school Italian restaurant I grew up with."

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

Good to know

1

Reservations are required for large parties to ensure seating.

2

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

3

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

23
Pezzi del mio Cuore image 1
Italian restaurant

Cozy Italian spot shines with fresh calamari and homemade pasta. Casual vibe suits date nights, offering large portions and a strong wine selection. Friendly setting makes every meal feel special.

Great calamari stands out with its fresh taste and satisfying texture. It pairs well with other dishes like bruschetta and Scallopina Marsala.

People are saying

"The Italian food, especially the pasta, is so fresh and delicious."

"The Panna Cotta was light and fruity, truly the best I can remember."

"The calamari here tasted fresh with a light batter."

Good to know

1

Parking is plentiful and free near the restaurant.

2

The menu features a wide variety of homemade pasta dishes.

3

Portion sizes are large enough for sharing or leftovers.

24
Itacho Sushi - All You Can Eat image 1

Spacious sushi restaurant with well spaced tables and large TV screens showing cultural and sports content. Atmosphere stays pleasant and chill with moderate music volume, supporting easy conversation. The vibe blends a modern, clean style with a fun anime theme, welcoming groups of all sizes.

People are saying

"The bottomless sushi here is delicious and satisfying."

"The seafood here is incredibly fresh, especially the sashimi and nigiri."

"I thought the fried calamari was some of the best I ever had."

Good to know

1

The all-you-can-eat option costs $30, offering a wide variety of sushi.

2

Lunch service does not include a menu on weekends or holidays.

3

Sushi orders come in full rolls of 8 pieces, providing good value.

25
Lazy Dog Restaurant & Bar image 1
American restaurant

Large space with warm lodge-like decor and a dog-friendly patio creates a lively, homey vibe. Wok fried calamari offers a unique twist that can serve as a full meal. Busy spot with bar seating and booths, best to reserve ahead.

Wok fried calamari stands out with its non-traditional style and can serve as a meal on its own. It differs from typical fried versions and offers a unique take on calamari.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, delicious, and beautifully presented."

"The American Food here, especially the steak, is amazing."

"The wok fried calamari could be a meal on its own."

Good to know

1

Lazy Dog Restaurant & Bar allows customers to bring their dogs during Sunday brunch.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially for larger parties.

3

Parking can be challenging, so arrive early.

26
The Grill at Torrey Pines image 1
American restaurant

Outdoor dining offers sea view and golf course scenery, perfect for families and friends. Fried calamari is crispy and flavorful, ideal for sharing. Live music and a bonfire add to the relaxed atmosphere during evenings.

Crispy and flavorful, the fried calamari comes in a generous portion that works well as a side or shared dish. It stands out for its great taste and satisfying texture.

People are saying

"I took in the beautiful golf course view from our outdoor table."

"The tomato soup and grilled cheese are delicious comfort food."

"The calamari here is crispy and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for dinner service to avoid long wait times.

2

The average meal cost is around $30 per person, excluding drinks.

3

The restaurant offers a scenic patio for outdoor dining with ocean views.

27
Hudson & Nash image 1
Restaurant

Waterfront views and a cozy firepit create a relaxing atmosphere perfect for families. Calamari is light and crispy, making it a standout appetizer. Cocktails impress with their quality and variety, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Light and crispy texture defines the calamari here, avoiding any greasiness. It stands out as a really good appetizer option among others.

People are saying

"The food here was pretty good and delicious."

"The breakfast service here is friendly and attentive."

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

Good to know

1

Expect a 20% auto-gratuity added to your bill for all orders.

2

A 4% surcharge is included on to-go orders.

3

Prices are higher than average for food and drinks.

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