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Local picks in San Francisco

Calamari

Made for those who have a specific craving for calamari and will not settle for anything less than their preferred preparation.

Based on 505 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Fermentation Lab Japantown image 1
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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.

02
Fifty Vara image 1
Restaurant

High vaulted ceilings and natural light create a bright, cozy atmosphere. Calamari is crispy and flaky, perfect with flatbreads and salads. In-house brewing and a beautiful bar add to the inviting, community vibe.

Crispy, flaky, and not oily batter covers the calamari. It stands out as a lightly fried dish that pairs well with other items like flatbreads and salads.

People are saying

"The flatbread here is really flavorful and delicious."

"The hazy IPA here is best in class."

"The calamari here is delicious and a great spot for friends."

Good to know

1

Parking is free and abundant, making it convenient to visit.

2

There are a surprising number of vegan and vegetarian options.

3

The portion sizes were rather small for the cost.

03
Picaro image 1
Spanish restaurant

Small space buzzes with loud mariachi music and old-world charm. Fried calamari is crispy and well-cooked, perfect with garlic aioli and sides like asparagus. Enjoy delicious sangria and excellent Spanish dishes in a lively, friendly spot ideal for groups and dates.

Fried calamari comes out crispy and well-cooked. It appears alongside dishes like seafood paella and pairs well with sides such as asparagus and fried potatoes with garlic aioli.

People are saying

"The seafood here is packed with garlicky olive oil and flavor."

"I loved the inexpensive tapas plates and generous portions."

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

Good to know

1

Picaro offers a Sangria happy hour with $14 for a pitcher until 7pm.

2

There is a 4% surcharge for credit cards, but no additional fees.

3

Picaro can only charge two cards per bill for large groups.

04
Splash Sports Bar at Thrive City image 1

Large space with wall-to-wall screens offers an immersive sports experience. Calamari arrives fast and tastes great, a true go-to order. Outdoor seating with fire pits adds cozy comfort while enjoying games like foosball and shuffleboard.

Calamari comes quickly and stands out as a go-to order. It tastes delicious and pairs well with light, crispy nachos.

People are saying

"It's a great place to watch the game with good food and drinks."

"I'll be back for these loaded nachos."

"You can watch the game with great calamari and drinks here."

Good to know

1

Happy hour ends by 5 PM on weekdays.

2

Expect large crowds during playoff watch parties.

3

Getting there early on game days is recommended to avoid long waits.

05
Cantoo Latin Asian Rotisserie image 1
Asian fusion restaurant

Basement setting offers a grotto-like atmosphere with a cozy, slightly shabby vibe. Fried calamari shines with a unique spice and salt and pepper version is over the top amazing. Soft Latin American music adds a peaceful ambiance to the spacious, clean interior.

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."

"These chili oil dumplings are delicious and make your tongue sing."

"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.

06
Crustacean image 1
Vietnamese restaurant

Vietnamese spot shines with sleek modern interiors and an upscale vibe. Fried calamari is tasty but not standout. Bar area buzzes with high and low stools, adding lively energy to the elegant space.

Fried calamari comes as a salt and pepper appetizer and a family-style dish. It tastes good but does not stand out as special.

People are saying

"You have to try the seafood fried rice with the garlic noodles."

"It's a gorgeous, modern, and elegant space."

"The fried calamari was good, nothing special though."

Good to know

1

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

2

There is a dress code; business casual attire is expected.

3

Expect to pay an additional $10 for crab to be served without the shell.

07
Burma Love image 1
Asian restaurant

Modern space offers a spacious patio perfect for people watching near a major arena. Grilled calamari shines with a crispy chili crunch and fresh, bold flavors. Atmosphere shifts from quiet zen to vibrant energy on event days, blending cool vibes with lively outdoor scenes.

Grilled calamari comes with a chili crunch that adds a crispy texture instead of the usual breading. It tastes very fresh and is well seasoned.

People are saying

"You have to try the tea leaf salad; it's so tasty."

"The seafood here is tender and savory, especially the black cod."

"The calamari here is super fresh and well seasoned."

Good to know

1

Getting a seat on game days can be difficult due to high demand.

2

Parking can be challenging during events at the Chase Center.

3

The restaurant features both indoor and outdoor seating.

08
The Fly Trap image 1
Californian restaurant

Cozy, historic spot offers a heated patio and dog-friendly seating for a relaxed vibe. Fried calamari is crispy and light, making it a standout appetizer. Unique cocktails and a great wine selection round out the experience.

Fried calamari comes out crispy and not too oily, making it a solid appetizer choice. The dish is generally well-prepared and stands out alongside other menu items like ribeye.

People are saying

"I found the food here delicious, especially the risotto."

"The outdoor seating has an amazing atmosphere and beautiful decor."

"The calamari here is served with such cheerful, quick service."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3:15 p.m. to 7 p.m. with great deals on drinks.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially on busy evenings.

3

The full menu is available starting at 7 p.m.; only bar snacks are served before then.

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San Francisco, California

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