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Connecticut's best

Calamari and cocktails

A place where the calamari is treated as a serious appetizer, not just a filler to pair with your drink.

Based on 764 Opinions
+761
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Updated May 2026
01
Mi Bella Restaurante image 1
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Small space with intimate atmosphere and dim lighting creates a cozy vibe despite occasional crowding. Noise levels stay manageable, allowing easy conversation even when busy. Tables are spaced well, supporting a relaxed dining experience.

Fried calamari comes out perfectly cooked and tender. The New York style calamari stands out as a classic favorite.

Expertly made cocktails stand out here. Both cocktails and wine come at reasonable prices with excellent quality.

People are saying

"The food here was delicious and amazing."

"The cocktails here are expertly made and excellent."

"I thought the calamari was perfectly cooked and tender."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended on weekends due to high demand.

2

Street parking is easily available near the restaurant.

3

Portion sizes are generous, ensuring good value for money.

02
Oak Beach Bar + Grill image 1

Restaurant offers inside and outside seating with views right on the water. Atmosphere feels homey and welcoming, lively staff contribute to a friendly environment. Noise level can be very loud, creating an energetic vibe.

Crackling calamari stands out with its perfect fry and tender texture. It comes with three great dipping sauces that complement the dish well.

Cocktails come crafted well and taste delicious here. The Oak Street tequila cocktail stands out as a notable option.

People are saying

"This lunch spot's chicken cutlets are thin, juicy, and perfectly crispy."

"I thought the burger was one of the best I've ever had."

"The cocktails here are delicious and crafted well."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited, so arrive early to secure a spot.

2

Expect busy crowds during football nights and special events.

3

The crabcake costs $25, which is on the higher end of the menu.

03
Noa by September in Bangkok image 1

Sleek bar space with a massive Buddha statue and outdoor seating creates a modern, inviting vibe blending Thai elements and club energy. Upbeat music from a DJ sets a lively tone, especially as the venue shifts into a nightclub on weekend nights. Craft cocktails like mango mojitos and espresso martinis stand out alongside highly praised Thai dishes such as Tom Yum and mango sticky rice.

Calamari comes out very crispy and fresh with a light breading that keeps it soft, not chewy. It pairs well with a sweet dipping sauce that complements the flavor.

Craft cocktails showcase visual flair and complex flavors. The mango mojito stands out as a particularly memorable drink.

People are saying

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

"The cocktails are crafted with passion and skill, a delightful journey of flavors."

"The calamari here is so crispy and fresh."

Good to know

1

Happy hour specials include $1 wings and great drink deals.

2

The restaurant turns into a club after the kitchen closes on weekends.

3

On weekends after 9pm, the music is loud and lively.

04
Lombardi's Ristorante & Bar image 1
Italian restaurant

Two-floor layout showcases tasteful decor with hand-painted murals, indirect lighting, and classic white linens. Atmosphere feels upscale and warm, blending authentic Italian style with comfortable seating and soundproofing for conversation. Staff are attentive and well-presented, enhancing the elegant yet approachable vibe.

Calamari comes out light and not greasy, cooked perfectly with a house-made basil emulsion that adds fresh flavor.

Well crafted cocktails include options like cocomero, pesca, piccante, and vodka martini. The cocktail menu pairs well with a carefully selected wine list and complements the food and service.

People are saying

"The homemade pasta here is fantastic and perfectly prepared."

"The fine dining here offers refined Italian flavors with high-quality ingredients."

"I found the cocktails here to be excellent and very tasty."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a large menu with pasta, fish, veal, and meat.

2

Lombardi's is priced on the higher end and positions itself as a fine dining option.

3

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends.

05
Antonio's Italian Bistro image 1
Italian restaurant

Small, clean dining area with elegant decor and bright lighting creates an inviting atmosphere. Constantly playing refreshing soundtrack complements the space, which includes a private arched mini-space for two. The place feels lively and crowded, fostering a family-friendly vibe.

Fried calamari comes out light and cooked perfectly. It works well as an appetizer or shared dish.

Creative cocktails stand out here, offering a variety of great flavors alongside good wines. The drinks show thoughtful preparation and presentation.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and cooked perfectly."

"I enjoyed the creative cocktails."

"The calamari here is cooked perfectly and very light."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends.

2

Expect a $10 surcharge for spaghetti dishes.

3

The restaurant charges $12 for a small side of penne.

06
South Bay Mediterranean Kitchen image 1

Modern, clean space with charming decor and a relaxed atmosphere featuring jazz music. The vibe suits both casual lunches and relaxed dinners, attracting groups and couples alike. Occasional loud conversations can interrupt the otherwise cozy and classy environment.

Fried calamari stands out with its crispy texture and solid flavor. It appears alongside other notable appetizers like grilled octopus and steamed clams.

Great cocktails flow consistently, matching the spot's good vibes and fun atmosphere.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, especially the melt-in-your-mouth steak."

"The service at these dinner spots is friendly and attentive."

"I thought the fried calamari was quite good."

Good to know

1

The $25 lunch deal offers great value for a full meal.

2

Happy hour runs on Fridays with special drink prices.

3

The restaurant validates parking tickets for the garage across the street.

07
Ristorante di Sofia image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant offers a modern, upscale setting with a respectful old school ambiance. Atmosphere feels warm and friendly but can be noisy due to acoustics and large windows. Seating is limited, creating an intimate vibe suited for date nights and family dining.

Calamari comes as rings only, no tentacles. Preparation varies from overcooked and chewy to very well done alongside mussels.

Excellent cocktails come with a great selection of wines at a very nice bar. Drinks like the Shrimp cocktail score around 8.9 out of 10 and taste fantastic.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and worth coming back for."

"The cocktails here were excellent and fantastic."

"I had the best calamari Iโ€™ve ever tasted."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on busy holidays like Valentine's Day.

2

The restaurant has limited seating, so arrive early to avoid long waits.

3

Expect higher prices for certain menu items, like potato croquettes.

08
Paradise Restaurant & Banquet Hall image 1

Outdoor patio offers beautiful ambiance with a bar and live music stage, creating a warm and welcoming vibe ideal for date nights. Both dining and event spaces feature gorgeous decor and a comfortable atmosphere. Energy is lively, especially with a DJ enhancing the experience.

Crispy, tender, and perfectly seasoned, the calamari melts in your mouth without any chewiness. Fried calamari stands out as seriously addictive and full-bodied, making it easy to enjoy every bite.

Cocktails feature an inspired menu with options like Henny and Coke and alcohol-free choices. Some drinks may arrive without alcohol, but compensation is provided.

People are saying

"The Italian food here is fantastic, especially the fresh pasta."

"The outdoor seating area is beautiful, with a bar and stage for live music."

"The service for our cocktails was amazing and attentive."

Good to know

1

The band starts playing at 7 pm on event nights.

2

The restaurant has plenty of parking available for guests.

3

The new menu features a variety of selections.

09
Match image 1
American restaurant

Industrial design blends with contemporary decoration and functional classics to create a warm, inviting atmosphere. Large windows offer people-watching seats, while an impressive wine list and standout cocktails complement a diverse menu featuring exceptional dishes like gnocchi and steak tartare.

Perfectly cooked with amazing texture and flavor, the calamari stands out as a tasty appetizer that excites the palate.

Cocktails here are top notch with a focus on whiskey drinks. They taste yummy and stand out in quality.

People are saying

"The food here is phenomenal, with intense flavor and perfect seasoning."

"I thought the cocktails were yummy and top-notch."

"The calamari here is perfectly cooked with amazing flavor."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended on weekends due to high demand.

2

The kitchen closes 30 minutes after the last seating, so plan accordingly.

3

A 20% gratuity is automatically added to bills for parties of 2 or more.

10
Antonio's Italian Kitchen & Bar image 1

Italian American restaurant offers a quaint and cozy space with a spacious layout and outdoor dining. The atmosphere is relaxing and welcoming, enhanced by Italian music that supports conversation without overpowering. Cocktails stand out as a highlight, featuring drinks like French martinis and Limoncello Spritz.

Calamari comes out light and tender with a perfectly spicy dip. Some versions like the frutti can be overcooked and rubbery.

Signature cocktails stand out with Limoncello Spritz as a highlight. Drinks pair well with appetizers and entrees, offering a delicious experience.

People are saying

"The Italian food here is amazing, especially the pasta."

"I loved their signature cocktails; they were delicious."

"The calamari here is perfectly cooked and tender."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3 to 6 pm on weekdays.

2

Wednesdays feature half-price bottles of wine.

3

Reservations are not required but recommended during peak hours.

11
Atelier Florian image 1
Seafood restaurant

French bistro style with white marble comptoir and burgundy banquettes creates a modern yet cozy atmosphere. Energy is lively with live jazz music during brunch and staff engaging warmly. Small table gaps and outdoor seating add to the casual elegance for seafood dining.

Calamari comes out delicate and crispy with a tender texture. Some versions lack seasoning, but it generally avoids being chewy.

Cocktails feature delicious mixed drinks with the Kraken standing out. The elegant bar setting complements the experience, though service can be inconsistent.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, especially the moules frites."

"I found the cocktails to be delicious."

"The calamari here was tender, but the breading lacked seasoning."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. with great deals.

2

Social hour offers two-dollar Blue Points and one-dollar oysters after 9:30 PM.

3

Reservations are recommended for private events to ensure availability.

12
Pier131 Kitchen + Bar image 1
American restaurant

Large bar and outdoor patio offer river views and plentiful seating. Live DJ and band provide loud, club-like music that fills the space. Cozy booths with fireplace create a comfortable indoor atmosphere.

Distinctive cocktails include a blackberry spicy margarita and watermelon sugar mix. Offers $5 Tito's cocktails and carefully crafted whiskey drinks. Also serves popular local draft beer and mocktails.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be hot and full of flavor."

"The happy hour drinks and wine selection were amazing."

"The calamari was good, but a little greasy."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited and fills up quickly during busy hours.

2

Happy hour features $5 drinks and discounted appetizers.

3

The restaurant has a mandatory 20% tip for parties of 7 or more.

13
Blackstones Steakhouse image 1

Steakhouse combines modern airy design with an old-fashioned bar featuring large TVs showing sports. Atmosphere balances warm, comfortable vibes with a mix of casual and upscale elements. Private rooms connect directly to the bar, creating a social yet intimate setting.

Fried calamari comes crispy and is often breaded fresh to order. It pairs well with a sauce and is served alongside items like asparagus and sautรฉed broccoli.

Cocktails come custom mixed and pair well with Saratoga sparkling water. They complement dishes like oysters and filet mignon with delicious flavors.

People are saying

"The food here was amazing and delicious."

"The cocktails here were delicious and custom mixed."

"The calamari here is crispy and fresh."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 5:30 PM to 7 PM on weekdays with discounted drinks.

2

Reservations are recommended for large parties to ensure seating.

3

The restaurant validates parking for guests, making it convenient.

14
Matto Wine Bar image 1
Italian restaurant

Spacious Italian restaurant with sleek modern decor and outdoor seating featuring heat lamps. Atmosphere is lively and loud, making it challenging for large group conversations. Offers well-crafted cocktails like pistachio martinis and red wine sangria.

Calamari appears as a key appetizer, served alongside dishes like eggplant and chicken meatballs. It also features on a pizza with arugula salad, highlighting a unique twist.

Unique cocktails stand out with deliciously made flavors. Trusted bartenders Sam and Amanda craft drinks that satisfy even the most selective tastes.

People are saying

"The Italian food here, especially the short rib dishes and pizzas, is amazing."

"Our server Alexa was amazing and gave great recommendations."

"I recommended the calamari here."

Good to know

1

A fixed-price three-course lunch menu is available on weekdays until 2 pm for $17.98.

2

Happy hour features half-off bottles on Tuesdays and various drink specials.

3

The restaurant has ample parking available for guests.

15
The Landing AT Five Twenty image 1
American restaurant

Waterfront setting offers breathtaking views and a large outdoor deck with a peaceful koi pond. Live music ranges from jazz duos to bands, creating a pleasant atmosphere that supports conversation. The vibe blends a relaxed island feel with scenic waterside energy.

Calamari quality varies here, sometimes rubbery and barely eatable, other times delicious and paired with mussels. The dish costs around $17.

Cocktails show variable quality, with some being delicious while others fall short, especially during busy times. The bartender's pace seems to affect the consistency of the drinks.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and quite good."

"The calamari was good and cost $17."

"The cocktails here were delicious."

Good to know

1

Parking is plentiful and easily accessible for visitors.

2

The menu changes frequently, so check their Facebook for the latest updates.

3

Expect higher prices compared to similar venues in the area.

16
Founders House Pub & Patio image 1

Covered porch and patio seating create a romantic vibe with a slightly dark interior. Friendly staff serve special cocktails and cold beer glasses, enhancing a packed bar atmosphere. Booths inside may feel tight, but the overall setting is beautiful and inviting.

Fried calamari comes from thawed frozen rings and cooks up crispy. It serves as a common appetizer alongside items like French onion soup and polenta.

Special cocktails stand out with great flavor and a nice variety. One cocktail may be comped, but not the entire meal.

People are saying

"The dinner spots here have phenomenal chicken and good portions."

"I found their special cocktails to be delish."

"The fried calamari here was very good."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for special occasions, especially around holidays.

2

Expect higher prices for seafood dishes compared to other menu items.

3

Street parking is available, and off-street parking may also be an option.

17
Harvest Wine Bar & Restaurant image 1

Outdoor dining offers a secluded terrace with shaded seating away from street noise. Inside, a trendy and cozy vibe blends with jazz music and occasional live performances, creating a lively atmosphere. City sounds are present but do not overpower conversation.

Crispy calamari stands out among the small plates. It pairs well with other favorites like crispy artichokes and complements dishes such as pear and arugula salad.

Cocktails show consistent quality with a solid selection that adds to the overall experience. Drinks lean toward the mid-range in taste, but they pair well with the great food offered.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be really yummy and delicious."

"I enjoyed the great food and cocktails here."

"I really enjoyed the crispy calamari as a first course."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to ensure a table, especially on busy nights.

2

Happy Hour drinks are only discounted at the bar, not in the main dining area.

3

The restaurant has cleanliness issues, particularly in the bathrooms.

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