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Calamari spots

Fresh calamari should have a clean, crisp snap that reminds you of the coast. It is a simple pleasure when prepared with respect for the ingredient.

Based on 481 Opinions
+478
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Updated May 2026
01
DeVito's Italian Specialties image 1
DeVito's Italian Specialties image 2
DeVito's Italian Specialties image 3
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Italian restaurant offers an intimate setting with classy decor and modern art accents. Atmosphere feels cozy yet lively, with fun music enhancing the experience. Comfortable seating and a nice bar area support a relaxed vibe suitable for date nights or gatherings.

Food tastes fresh with authentic Italian flavors. Meals resemble those cooked in Italy, offering a truly genuine experience without traveling.

Very fresh calamari stands out with mozzarella and sausage as a favorite pairing. It comes alongside dishes like octopus carpaccio and olives, adding to a solid seafood selection.

People are saying

"The food here is prepared with obvious attention to detail."

"I enjoyed delicious, fresh, authentic Italian food."

"The calamari here is so fresh."

Good to know

1

Reservations are necessary as the restaurant turns away walk-ins.

2

A lunch portion of penne alla vodka costs $18.

3

The restaurant does not provide children's chairs.

02
Royal Thai Restaurant image 1
Thai restaurant

Small dining space offers a quiet, calming atmosphere with a charming piano in the corner and a unique runway view of planes landing. The setting feels warm and inviting, blending comfort with tasteful, simple decor. It suits both casual meals and special occasions, accommodating groups up to ten.

Food reflects Bangkok style with dishes like pad krapow that locals crave. Service supports the authentic Thai cuisine experience consistently.

Seafood broth with white mushrooms, calamari, and shrimp shines in the Yen at four soup. Fried calamari comes extra crispy and packed with flavor.

People are saying

"I thought this Thai food was the best I've ever had."

"I found the Thai food here to be truly authentic, just like mama makes it."

"The calamari here is extra crispy and full of flavor."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends to avoid long wait times.

2

Expect to wait 30 minutes or more during peak hours on weekends.

3

It's best to arrive early on Friday and Saturday nights to avoid wait times.

03
Acropolis Greek Taverna - Tampa image 1

Greek restaurant offers authentic cuisine in a museum-worthy interior with murals evoking a harborside sunset. Live belly dancing and traditional music create a fun, lively atmosphere that blends culture and entertainment. Outdoor seating invites people watching in a vibrant setting.

Greek dishes deliver authentic flavors that transport you to the Mediterranean. Grilled octopus, clams, and lamb come cooked to perfection with bursting authentic taste in every bite.

Calamari stands out for being exceptionally good and perfectly cooked. The dish pairs well with octopus, both offering very tasty flavors.

People are saying

"The Greek food, especially the gyro, did not disappoint."

"I found the Greek food here to be authentic and bursting with flavor."

"I found the calamari to be exceptionally good."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for Friday and Saturday nights due to live music.

2

Happy hour features buy-one-get-one and half-off food and drink options.

3

Sangrias and margaritas are 2-for-1 during happy hour.

04
Esposito's Italian Restaurant And Bar image 1

Small Italian restaurant with authentic decor and cozy, retro ambiance. Atmosphere feels warm and inviting but can be loud due to limited sound treatment. Italian music plays throughout, creating a cultured, upscale vibe.

Dishes taste authentic and homemade, capturing the essence of a true Italian kitchen. The overall experience reflects authentic Italian cuisine with a great atmosphere.

Fried calamari stands out with its crispy texture and rich flavor. Stuffed versions include ricotta cheese and spinach, making them hearty enough to be a meal on their own.

People are saying

"The Italian food here is outstanding, bursting with fresh flavors."

"The food here is authentic, homemade, and bursting with flavor."

"The calamari appetizer is perfectly crispy and seasoned just right."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-5 PM, featuring red and white sangria.

2

Arrive early for happy hour to enjoy a quieter atmosphere.

3

The venue is suitable for hosting large gatherings and events.

05
Terra Sur Cafe image 1
Peruvian restaurant

Peruvian restaurant offers elegant decor with a cozy atmosphere that feels both chic and classy. The space is deep and accommodates many, including a VIP room at the back. It attracts diners seeking a refined yet comfortable setting.

Authentic Peruvian cuisine shines through with dishes that taste real and delicious. The flavors stay true to traditional recipes, offering a genuine experience.

Fried calamari comes out perfectly cooked and fresh with a generous portion. It pairs well with other dishes like ceviche and Lomo Saltado.

People are saying

"The Peruvian food here is divine, especially the beef heart skewers."

"The calamari here is outstanding, and the service is just as good."

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

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for larger parties.

2

Happy hour features discounted drinks and appetizers from 4-6pm.

3

Outdoor dining is available for those who prefer it.

06
Yummy House South China Bistro image 1

Spacious interior with an Asian-modern-minimalist design and lazy Susan tables encourages communal dining. Atmosphere shifts from quiet for conversation to bustling yet comfortable on busy nights. Popular for authentic Chinese cuisine and dim sum, it suits family dinners and casual gatherings.

Dishes come out hot and full of authentic flavors that stand apart from typical takeout. The beef fried rice and Dim Sum showcase fresh, consistent, and spot-on Chinese cuisine.

Salt and Pepper Calamari comes in a generous portion for $12. It stays warm and crunchy even with takeout and has a delicious, crisp texture.

People are saying

"This Chinese food is fresh, hot, and expertly prepared."

"The authentic Chinese food here has flavors you won't find at typical takeout."

"The Salt and Pepper Calamari is delicious and a must-have."

Good to know

1

Dim sum is available on weekends via carts, but ordered from the menu during the week.

2

The restaurant is closed from 2 to 5 pm daily.

3

Parking is limited and can be challenging, especially during busy times.

07
Bernini of Ybor image 1
Italian restaurant

Restaurant occupies a historic former bank with impressive architecture and a Florence-inspired decor. Atmosphere blends elegant and laid-back vibes with a lively energy on weekend nights. Offers $3 martinis and authentic Italian cuisine in a setting that feels both private and charming.

Italian cuisine here stays true to tradition with authentic flavors and classic recipes. The pizza stands out as both genuine and delicious.

Fried calamari comes out perfectly cooked and very tender. It stands out as a consistently top-quality appetizer.

People are saying

"You have to try their $3 martinis during Happy Hour."

"The fried calamari here is perfectly cooked and so tender."

"I found the Italian cuisine to be authentic."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily from 4 to 7 PM with half-priced entrรฉes.

2

The happy hour includes $3 martinis every day.

3

Most meals are 50% off before 7 PM.

08
Yummy House China Bistro Tampa image 1

Chinese restaurant with an elegant design and comfortable seating creates a relaxed atmosphere despite its size. Tables feature lazy Susans for easy sharing, supporting family-style dining and larger gatherings. The space combines modern cleanliness with authentic cultural touches, offering a pleasant and inviting vibe.

Dishes feature authentic Cantonese taste with fresh ingredients and well-balanced seasoning. Every plate bursts with strong, genuine flavors reflecting traditional Chinese cuisine.

Salt and pepper calamari stands out with a slightly sweeter taste, garnished with fried garlic, shallots, and spicy peppers. It ranks among the best tasting calamari and appeals even to young kids.

People are saying

"The food here is really good, especially the roasted duck."

"I loved their authentic Chinese cuisine, bursting with flavor."

"The salt and pepper calamari here is the best tasting."

Good to know

1

The restaurant serves Dim Sum from 11am to 2:30pm on weekends.

2

Expect long wait times during lunch hours, especially on weekends.

3

Parking is available, but it can fill up quickly during peak hours.

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