Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks in Tampa

Dessert and calamari

A restaurant that manages to serve both decent calamari and a satisfying dessert without one feeling like an afterthought.

Based on 604 Opinions
+601
User
User
User
Updated May 2026
01
Caffé Paradiso image 1
Caffé Paradiso image 2
Caffé Paradiso image 3
View all
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant with an older, traditional atmosphere and cozy, lively vibe filled with the scent of fresh basil. Bar area buzzes with energy, creating a festive ambiance reminiscent of Rome or Mulberry Street in NYC. Seating is somewhat tight, but the space fosters fun, friendly gatherings and memorable family occasions.

Limoncello cake stands out with its soaked, balanced, and creamy texture. Chocolate mousse cakes also feature alongside a lemon cake that complements the meal well.

Tender texture stands out in the Calamari Fritti, making it notably enjoyable. The calamari pairs well with buffalo burrata, and the fried version is solid.

People are saying

"The Italian food here is amazing, truly some of the best I've had."

"It's a fun, lively spot, always busy and buzzing."

"The calamari here is so tender and tastes the best."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required at least two weeks in advance for dinner service.

2

The prix fixe menu costs $90 per person, including gratuity.

3

Expect long wait times during peak dinner hours.

02
DeVito's Italian Specialties image 1

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.

Desserts stand out with tiramisu and cheesecake noted for their pure perfection. The cannoli with berry coulis is a highlighted choice to try next.

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."

"The service here is exceptional and memorable."

"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.

03
Driftlight Steakhouse image 1

Upscale steakhouse with classic design and clamshell booths creates an elegant yet inviting atmosphere. Dim lighting and calm energy support romantic dining and quiet conversation. Bar area buzzes with a lively crowd enjoying craft cocktails and martinis made to perfection.

Complimentary desserts appear during celebrations and birthdays. The desserts consistently impress with excellent quality and come alongside premier service.

Calamari comes out perfectly crispy and pairs well with other appetizers like crab cakes. It holds up well alongside hearty dishes and offers a satisfying crunch every time.

People are saying

"The Delmonico steak was delicious."

"The calamari here is perfectly crisp."

"They surprised me with a complimentary dessert for my birthday."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for dinner and breakfast to ensure seating.

2

Valet parking is complimentary for up to 3 hours on non-event nights.

3

The restaurant is cashless; credit cards and mobile payments are accepted.

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.

Cannoli filling stands out with its rich creaminess. Tiramisu melts in your mouth with perfect texture. Lemoncello and cappuccino add a classic touch to the dessert selection.

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."

"You should order the Pistachio Cake for dessert; it's rich and creamy."

"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
The Dan image 1
Restaurant

Speakeasy-style restaurant with Roaring '20s vibe, featuring gilded accents and crystal chandeliers. Atmosphere combines live jazz music with a retro ambiance that suits both romantic and casual dinners. Offers curated craft cocktails alongside a menu praised for standout dishes like lamb pappardelle and red snapper.

Rich and satisfying desserts include a Key Lime Cheesecake with a plain look, a Chocolate Lava Cake served with raspberry coulis, and a Ricotta Cheesecake topped with black cherry. Portions are well sized and flavors are decadent.

Breaded calamari comes with a cajun-influenced sauce that adds a spicy kick. The pieces are on the smaller side, but the unique, delicious flavor stands out.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are fun and delicious, especially with the cotton candy garnish."

"I thought the calamari was very unique and delicious."

"The desserts here, like the bread pudding, are decadent."

Good to know

1

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

2

Live jazz performances occur every Friday at 8pm.

3

The venue can get crowded during happy hour, expect a lively atmosphere.

06
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.

Ruammit dessert parfait stands out with its chilled coconut milk, fresh fruits, and coconut, balancing spicy meals well. Desserts here complement the overall meal experience effectively.

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'm looking forward to returning to try more dishes, especially the desserts."

"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.

07
Ruth's Chris Steak House image 1

Steak house offers an elegant and cozy atmosphere with complimentary valet parking and a talented piano player in the lobby. Tables sometimes feature rose petal decorations for celebrations, creating a special vibe. The energy suits romantic meals and business meetings, with a calm yet refined pace.

Free dessert often comes with celebrations. Tables and dessert dishes get decorated to enhance the experience.

Lightly breaded and exceptionally tender, the calamari stands out with a crisp texture. It pairs well with other dishes but shines on its own as a delicious starter.

People are saying

"The steak was cooked perfectly and delicious."

"The desserts here are marvelous and rich enough to share."

"The calamari here is lightly breaded and amazing."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4 to 6 PM in the Cocktail Lounge.

2

Reservations are not required for dining.

3

Parking is limited, so arrive early or consider alternative transport.

08
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.

Peruvian desserts feature prominently with options like bread pudding standing out. Desserts consistently match the quality of other dishes, offering a delicious finish to meals.

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."

"I found the desserts here to be a true Peruvian delight."

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

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.

09
Iavarone's Steakhouse & Italian Grill image 1

Classic steakhouse and Italian restaurant with dim lighting and rustic interiors creates an old Europe vibe. The atmosphere feels local and welcoming, balancing a lounge with TVs without becoming a sports bar. A hidden rooftop event space adds a unique touch to the traditional setting.

Desserts include Tiramisu, Bananas Foster, and Cheesecake with berries. The Sunday Special offers a shareable dessert along with appetizer and entrée for $25.

Calamari stands out as delicious and perfectly cooked. It serves well as a shared appetizer alongside other dishes.

People are saying

"The food and drinks here are amazing for Date Spots."

"The Sunday Special dessert was a great value."

"I found the calamari to be delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for large parties to ensure seating.

2

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

3

Easter brunch is a special event that requires advance reservations.

10
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.

Birthday desserts come as a surprise here. The dessert cake impresses, and the tiramisu pairs well with Irish coffee.

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 desserts here to be excellent."

Good to know

1

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

2

The happy hour includes $3 martinis every day.

3

Most meals are 50% off before 7 PM.

11
Bazille at Nordstrom image 1
American restaurant

Whimsical secret society vibe blends with relaxed atmosphere and elevated but unpretentious style. Bar seating is intimate with 7 seats, offering some of the best cocktails in the area. Dining spaces balance quiet and lively, making it suitable for casual meals or celebrations.

Desserts include a variety of options like strawberry shortcake and a seasonal red velvet. Some desserts are available for ToGo and can be enjoyed at their tables.

Calamari comes with a unique dipping sauce that stands out. The chef prepares it with expert skill, matching the quality of other dishes like the French dip sandwich and tacos.

People are saying

"The calamari here is expertly prepared."

"I thought the salads here were delicious and flavorful."

"The desserts here, like bread pudding and creme brulee, are fantastic."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to ensure a table, especially during busy hours.

2

The restaurant is located inside Nordstrom on the second floor.

3

Sodas cost $4 each, and no bread or salad is included with entrees.

12
Cipresso (in Seminole Hard Rock Tampa) image 1

Italian dining offers an upscale but relaxing atmosphere with dark, cozy decor and comfortable seating. The space can be noisy near the bar but remains suitable for romantic evenings. It draws a busy crowd, often requiring reservations.

Butter Cake dessert stands out as a highlight. The cannoli dessert offers a lovely way to finish the evening.

Fried calamari comes with fresh, light breading and pairs well with fantastic sauces like pesto. It stands out as a favorite dish alongside other Italian specialties.

People are saying

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

"You have to try the cheesecake for dessert; it's a winner."

"The calamari here has amazing, light breading and fantastic sauces."

Good to know

1

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

2

Expect a strong smell of smoke from the casino floor inside the restaurant.

3

The restaurant offers a specials menu every weekend night.

Discover more

Tampa, Florida

Area guide
Loading Map...