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Jacksonville's best

Calamari spots

Calamari that is prepared with respect for the ingredient rather than being treated as a deep-fried bar snack.

Based on 592 Opinions
+589
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Updated May 2026
01
Ten Seconds Rice Noodle & Ramen image 1
Ten Seconds Rice Noodle & Ramen image 2
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Hot stone bowls keep dishes warm throughout the meal, enhancing the authentic Asian vibe of the clean, modern interior. The atmosphere feels cozy and inviting with a cool temperature inside. Food arrives promptly, featuring fresh, high-quality ingredients and a variety of well-prepared ramen and noodle soups.

Dishes come in small plates true to Yunnan style, with fermented tofu and pot stickers cooked with a crisp bottom and tender filling. The interior keeps a cool, clean Asian vibe that matches the authentic food.

Crispy Calamari stands out with a texture that holds up well. The accompanying calamari sauce adds a very yummy flavor that complements the dish.

People are saying

"The ramen broth here is among the best I've ever tasted."

"The food here is so authentic, with amazing flavors and freshness."

"I considered the calamari the best I have ever had."

Good to know

1

Expect generous portion sizes for the price, especially for fried rice.

2

The restaurant takes pride in making everything from scratch daily.

3

The menu lacks clear indications of seafood or imitation crab in dishes.

02
YH Dim Sum image 1
Cantonese restaurant

Large, bright space with natural light and spacious seating creates an inviting yet elegant atmosphere. Clean, updated interior features ply board walls and a bar serving strong cocktails. Dim sum and authentic Cantonese dishes complement the relaxed, comfortable vibe.

Dishes show a harmonious balance of flavors, textures, and aromas typical of authentic dim sum. The food serves authentic Cantonese flavors in a light, open setting.

Salt and pepper calamari stands out with its light, flaky batter and optimal cooking that keeps it flavorful and tender. This dish consistently delivers a delicious, well-seasoned bite.

People are saying

"The Chinese food here is delicious and authentic."

"The dinner spots here have huge portions; I took food home for lunch."

"I found the Chinese food here to be authentic and delicious."

Good to know

1

Dim sum is only served during lunch hours from 11 am to 2 pm.

2

Happy hour on drinks runs Monday to Saturday, 5-7 PM.

3

Starting July 15th, all-day dim sum is available.

03
House Italian Cuisine image 1
Italian restaurant

Small, family-owned Italian restaurant with a cozy, homey atmosphere and NY Diner feel. Staff includes family members working together, creating a warm, authentic vibe. Space recently expanded next door, offering more room while maintaining an intimate setting.

Food features authentic Italian flavors with fresh, flavorful ingredients and generous portions. Staff serve in a casual, home-style manner, enhancing the genuine dining experience.

Thick cut calamari comes lightly breaded with a flavorful crust. It serves with a side of marinara sauce for dipping. The texture stays fresh and tender.

People are saying

"The Italian food here is delicious, especially the perfectly sauced pastas."

"I found the food to be the most authentic Italian I'd had."

"The calamari here is thick cut and lightly breaded."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to limited seating.

2

The wait can be long without a reservation.

3

They offer dine-in, takeout, and catering services.

04
Sofi's image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant blends rustic charm and modern elegance with beautiful decoration and a stylish vibe. Atmosphere stays relaxed and inviting, avoiding hectic crowds. Bartender crafts expert cocktails that complement a menu featuring standout seafood and pasta dishes.

Offers authentic Italian and Mediterranean cuisine with generous portions and well-balanced flavors. Dishes like veal piccata and blue filet pasta taste genuine and flavorful.

Crispy calamari comes out light, tender, and perfectly seasoned. It stands out as some of the best around.

People are saying

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

"I found the authentic Italian and Mediterranean food here to be delicious."

"The calamari here is light, tender, and perfectly seasoned."

Good to know

1

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

2

Valet parking is available on weekends for convenience.

3

Sofi's offers gluten-free pasta options for dietary needs.

05
Ciao Trattoria Italiana image 1
Italian restaurant

Bright, cozy Italian restaurant with live music and authentic old world Sicilian food creates a welcoming, homey atmosphere. Well-set tables and a private dining room with mood lighting add to the inviting experience. Full bar offers classic Italian drinks alongside quality meals.

Italian dishes feature authentic old world Sicilian flavors made from scratch. Pizzas like Margherita and Sausage/Mushroom use fresh tomatoes and good olive oil for a genuine taste.

Fresh, crispy calamari comes with a thick, flavorful Marinara sauce. The combination of special sauce and quality makes it stand out.

People are saying

"The Italian food here is delicious, especially the eggplant parmesan."

"The authentic Italian food here makes you feel like you're in Italy."

"The calamari here is some of the best I ever had."

Good to know

1

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

2

The restaurant has a special Romantic Dinner Sunday with a set menu.

3

The menu is limited after 9:00 pm, so plan your visit accordingly.

06
Sr. Ceviche Jacksonville image 1
Peruvian restaurant

Bright, clean, and contemporary space offers a family-friendly vibe with digital menus and a large selfie sign on the wall. Music plays a fantastic role in creating a welcoming atmosphere. Known for authentic Peruvian ceviche, it stands out for thoughtful design and a recent renovation.

Most dishes feature authentic Peruvian flavors with fresh ingredients. Ceviche stands out as a genuine representation of traditional recipes, presented with care.

Calamari comes out perfectly cooked and flavorful. It appears in dishes like the fried seafood mixto with crispy yuca sticks and the creamy seafood chowder with mussels and shrimp.

People are saying

"The ceviche here is amazing, bright, and full of seafood."

"The authentic Peruvian food here is bursting with flavor."

"The fried calamari here is perfectly cooked and crispy."

Good to know

1

Happy Hour runs until 7pm with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

Expect dishes to cost around $22 each, including an $8 charge per dish.

3

Reservations are recommended during peak hours to avoid long waits.

07
Dolce Vita Modern Italian image 1
Italian restaurant

Small space with intimate seating and carefully curated decor creates a cozy, upscale vibe. Live performances by saxophone and violin players add phenomenal music that lifts the atmosphere. Guests enjoy balanced cocktails and authentic Italian dishes in a setting that feels like a refined home.

Authentic Italian food shines with genuine flavors and a warm, inviting atmosphere. The setting pairs modern music with traditional tastes for a balanced experience.

Fried calamari comes out crispy and not greasy with a subtle flavor. It ranks as one of the best calamari appetizers in the area.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was great."

"The food here is authentic Italian, full of flavor."

"The calamari here is great and very pleasing."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm, Monday to Friday.

2

Karaoke night occurs weekly; check the schedule for specific dates.

3

Entertainment events are scheduled on select dates; visit the website for details.

08
Enza's Italian Restaurant image 1
Italian restaurant

Dark ambiance with live piano music sets a relaxing, elegant mood. Tables feature white tablecloths and tight seating in a surprisingly spacious interior. The atmosphere feels old school and intimate, distinct from chain restaurants.

Food tastes like it comes straight from Italy with authentic Italian cuisine and a family restaurant vibe. Live piano music and excellent service add to the genuine experience.

Lightly breaded calamari arrives crispy and tender, cooked perfectly and served hot. It stands out as a tasty appetizer and a highlight alongside other dishes like meatballs and pasta.

People are saying

"The food here is excellent and the service is so pleasant."

"I experienced authentic Italian food, just like in a family meal in Italy."

"The calamari here is lightly breaded and crispy."

Good to know

1

Reservations are strongly advised due to the restaurant's popularity.

2

Happy hour offers great specials after work.

3

Expect a $7.50 charge for soft drinks not listed on the menu.

09
Primi Piatti image 1
Italian restaurant

Classic Italian interior creates a quaint, intimate atmosphere with beautiful lighting and a homey style. The space feels romantic and nostalgic, offering a mellow and pleasant vibe. Guests enjoy a small, clean setting that emphasizes authentic Italian charm.

Dishes like chicken Parmesan and fettuccine Alfredo taste fresh and cooked to order. The food delivers an explosion of authentic Italian flavors that feels true to Italy.

Calamari comes perfectly breaded with a tasty dipping sauce. It is sometimes frozen but still stands out as a delicious appetizer.

People are saying

"The angel hair pasta here is freshly made and cooked just right."

"The food here is so authentic, it transports you straight to Italy."

"The calamari appetizer was perfectly breaded and delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends due to limited seating.

2

Expect a warm, family-like atmosphere during dining.

3

The restaurant is known for its authentic Italian cuisine.

10
Kyoto Sushi and Ramen image 1
Asian restaurant

Asian restaurant offers a quiet and calming atmosphere with cozy, beautifully decorated interiors featuring comfortable seating and bright, cheerful lighting. The space suits both romantic dates and family gatherings, combining a modern, trendy design with a warm, inviting vibe.

Authentic tasting noodles stand out here, with ramen and sushi that taste genuine and well made. The ramen noodles deliver a great authentic flavor not found elsewhere in the area.

Calamari comes out crispy and flavorful, standing out alongside dishes like tonkotsu ramen and pork bao buns. It pairs well with other menu items and holds its own as a tasty choice.

People are saying

"The Japanese food, especially the sushi, is always fresh and flavorful."

"I found the ramen and sushi to be delicious and authentic."

"I loved their calamari; it was pretty tasty."

Good to know

1

Lunch specials are available daily with various affordable options.

2

Sushi rolls average between $5 and $8, making it budget-friendly.

3

The menu includes a diverse selection of ramen, sushi, and poke.

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