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Top picks in Tampa

Calamari spots

Made for those who evaluate the standards of a kitchen based on the texture and preparation of their calamari.

Based on 665 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
LALA Tampa image 1
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Restaurant

Private karaoke rooms offer exclusive entertainment with an extensive music library for all ages. The space combines lively, elegant atmosphere with distinctive themed decor like Gatsby and Moulin Rouge rooms. Well-crafted cocktails and standout dishes complement a vibrant social setting.

Food features tasty dishes with consistently great flavors and excellent quality. The menu pairs well with cocktails and complements a lively atmosphere.

Tender, hand breaded calamari arrives fried and cooked quickly. It pairs well with ratatouille on goat cheese toast and offers a consistently delicious bite.

People are saying

"I had a blast with these fun activities!"

"I thought the food here was delicious and cooked to perfection."

"The fried calamari here is tender and hand-breaded."

Good to know

1

Reservations for karaoke rooms are recommended, especially on weekends.

2

Parking is very limited and can be chaotic around the venue.

3

There is a 20% discount on food and drinks every Tuesday.

02
Caffé Paradiso image 1
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.

Italian dishes stand out with fresh ingredients and delicious flavors. Coffee and wine pair well with the excellent food options.

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."

"The food here is amazing, truly gourmet Italian."

"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.

03
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.

Italian food stands out with rich flavors and authentic recipes. Service is phenomenal, and the ambiance suits both friends and couples for a special night.

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 Italian Food here is amazing, especially the tiramisu martini."

"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.

04
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.

Food arrives quickly and tastes consistently amazing. The menu offers a higher end dining experience with dishes that never disappoint.

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 food here was wonderful and delicious."

"The calamari here is perfectly crisp."

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.

05
Mr. & Mrs. Crab Juicy Seafood & Bar- Westchase image 1

Seafood restaurant offers a newly remodeled interior with high ceilings and decor that feels like being under the sea. Atmosphere ranges from lively and fun to more upscale and quiet, suitable for families or dates. Guests use gloves and bibs for messy seafood boils, enhancing the hands-on dining experience.

Food comes out well cooked and seasoned with excellent drinks to match. Groups find the quality and price balanced, making meals enjoyable every time.

Calamari arrives quickly and stays tender, avoiding rubberiness. Portions lean toward small, with a price that feels a bit high for the amount served.

People are saying

"I found the seafood boil here to be amazing and delicious."

"The food here is always cooked perfectly and has great flavor."

"The calamari was excellent and not rubbery."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers drink specials from 4-6pm on weekdays.

2

Expect a wait time of 30-45 minutes during weekend dinner hours.

3

Parking can be challenging; consider arriving early or using rideshare services.

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.

Delicious Thai food stands out with flavorful dishes and excellent service creating a cozy dining experience.

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 thought the Thai food here was excellent and authentic."

"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
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.

Food features falafel and hummus as standout dishes with phenomenal flavors. The menu offers consistently delicious Greek cuisine paired with attentive service.

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 food here to be amazing and tasty."

"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.

08
Leons Lobstah Shack image 1
American restaurant

Casual American seafood spot with indoor and outdoor seating overlooking calm bay waters and a skyline view. Atmosphere stays low key and relaxing, enhanced by proximity to a park and playground. Frequented by families and seafood lovers enjoying generous portions and a tranquil setting.

Food arrives quickly after ordering at the counter and is served at the table. The menu offers great food with flavors that have improved over time, paired with excellent service.

Calamari comes very breaded and crispy, often served fried alongside other seafood like clams and shrimp. The kitchen keeps it simple, focusing on freshness and classic fried preparations.

People are saying

"The view from here is beautiful, overlooking downtown."

"I thought the food here was amazing."

"The calamari was abundant, breaded, and perfectly cooked."

Good to know

1

Parking is available but can be limited during busy times.

2

Expect a $12 charge for soft drinks.

3

The fries cost an extra $1, which is not clearly disclosed on the menu.

09
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.

Italian food stands out with consistently excellent quality and mouth-watering flavors. Every visit delivers top notch service alongside the delicious dishes.

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."

"I found the food here to be amazing and outstanding."

"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.

10
Circles image 1
Bistro

Small bistro with intimate setting and fancy decor offers a quiet, cozy atmosphere that feels both comfortable and upscale. The menu blends Italian, Asian, and French flavors with an eclectic selection of epicurean dishes. A carefully curated wine list complements the relaxed dining experience.

Food here is consistently excellent and top quality with a tasty and satisfying flavor. The dining experience blends Mom and Pop charm with an upscale feel.

Fried calamari comes with a rice flour breading that adds a crunchier texture. It is perfectly seasoned and stands out among other dishes like egg rolls and pad Thai.

People are saying

"I was blown away by the amazing wine selection."

"I found the bar to be a lovely, intimate spot."

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

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to limited seating with only 6 tables and 12 bar seats.

2

The dinner menu features specials, and the lunch menu is available starting at 6 PM.

3

Circles is open Tuesday through Saturday; calling ahead is advised for availability.

11
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.

Food here is consistently delicious with a true Italian flair. The menu can be customized and pricing is based on the amount of food ordered, not the number of guests.

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 food here is amazing and delicious."

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

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.

12
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.

Food features great flavor and high quality consistently. Service complements the delicious dishes well, creating a memorable dining 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."

"I found the food to be amazing."

"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.

13
Crafty Crab Tampa image 1
Seafood restaurant

Nautical-themed seafood restaurant with casual vibe and lively atmosphere. Tables covered with crab paper, and diners wear bibs and gloves to enjoy Cajun-style seafood boils. Large bar area and football games on TV add to the relaxed, social setting.

Food comes fresh and hot, mixed thoroughly in a big clear bag with your choice of sauce. The dishes are consistently delicious and ready to enjoy.

Fried calamari arrives piping hot with a lightly battered and perfectly seasoned coating. It comes with both marinara and a spicy-mayo-wasabi sauce that adds bold flavor.

People are saying

"The food here is fantastic and tasted super fresh."

"The Seafood here is great, with attentive and knowledgeable servers."

"The calamari here is piping hot, lightly battered, and perfectly seasoned."

Good to know

1

Parking can be difficult sometimes in the afternoon on weekdays due to nearby restaurants.

2

The meal cost around $50 for a family of four, providing ample food.

3

The restaurant opens at 4 pm, so plan your visit accordingly.

14
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.

Food features perfectly cooked lamb, fresh pasta, and well-seasoned dishes. Every detail in the food preparation is carefully handled, resulting in exceptional flavors.

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."

"The food here is amazing and arrived hot."

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

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.

15
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.

Excellent food stands out with delicious Peruvian dishes and outstanding service that enhances the dining 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 Peruvian food here is delicious and unique."

"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.

16
Mr. & Mrs. Crab Juicy Seafood & Bar - Gandy image 1

Seafood restaurant with a vibrant sea life theme and kitschy old Florida atmosphere offers a relaxed, fun vibe with loud, eclectic music mixing club, pop, and rock. Seating is close together, creating a casual and family-friendly environment. The bar features multiple TVs and a comfortable setup.

Food here is consistently fresh and delicious with a good amount served for the price. Some dishes can be a bit salty, but overall the quality and taste stand out.

Crispy, fresh calamari comes with an outstanding sauce. Fried calamari serves well as a tasty appetizer alongside hush puppies.

People are saying

"I found the seafood boil to be some of the best I've ever had."

"I found the food here to be delicious and great."

"The calamari is crispy and served with an outstanding sauce."

Good to know

1

Happy hour drink specials are available, making it a great time to visit.

2

Friday nights can get very crowded and loud due to live music.

3

All food is fried in the same oil, which may not be suitable for those with allergies.

17
Shrimp & Co. Restaurant image 1
Seafood restaurant

Small seafood restaurant offers a quaint, beachy vibe with casual, welcoming atmosphere. Decor is simple but unique, creating a cozy and vibrant setting ideal for relaxed dining. Guests often arrive in beach attire and enjoy fresh, well-presented seafood with generous portions.

Food here is flavorful and cooked to perfection with a focus on high quality ingredients. Dishes like grouper and shrimp stand out, and service is quick with no wait.

Fried calamari comes out crispy and delicious. The Louisiana steam pot includes calamari and offers a flavorful twist.

People are saying

"I highly recommend the seafood here; it's insanely good."

"I thought the food here was fantastic and delicious."

"The fried calamari here is delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required; walk-ins are welcome in beach attire.

2

Expect no wait time during lunch hours.

3

Parking is paid only; street parking is cheaper than the lot.

18
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.

Food offers consistent quality and good value. Service is excellent with dishes arriving quickly, though full party service spans about five minutes.

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 food here was very good and colorful."

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.

19
Watervue Grille- Downtown Tampa- Harbour Island image 1

Restaurant sits right on the water with beautiful waterfront views and a vacation relaxed vibe. Indoor and outdoor seating offer shady, pleasant dining near a marina and downtown skyline. Atmosphere feels cozy and quiet, ideal for casual meals or date nights.

Food here is consistently phenomenal with great portions and quick service. Both indoor and outdoor seating offer comfortable dining with adequate shading.

Calamari comes with a light breading and a bit of chewiness. It pairs well with a wasabi sauce that adds a spicy kick.

People are saying

"The Dinner Spots here are delicious, especially the perfectly seared crab cakes."

"The food here is amazing, especially the calamari."

"The calamari here is fantastic, not overly breaded."

Good to know

1

They are now open Friday to Sunday for brunch.

2

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with great drink deals.

3

Expect a busy atmosphere on Saturdays between 11-2 pm.

20
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.

Food features excellent courses with consistently amazing flavors. The dining experience combines great taste with attentive service and a pleasant ambience.

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 food here was amazing, truly incredible."

"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.

21
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.

Food comes out quickly and is consistently delicious with a strong reputation for amazing Chinese dishes. Prices stay reasonable while maintaining quality.

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 food here is really good and expertly prepared."

"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.

22
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.

Food here features authentic Chinese flavors with consistently excellent quality and great service. The menu offers a range of dishes that deliver a genuine taste of Asian 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."

"The dinner spots here offer authentic Cantonese flavors, especially the snow pea tips."

"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.

23
Bar Louie - Tampa image 1

Small pub-style space with wrap-around bar, plenty of TVs, and outdoor seating creates a lively, inviting environment. Music ranges from live bands to DJs, keeping energy fun but not overwhelming. Crowd enjoys a laid-back, friendly vibe suited for casual nights out.

Bar food stands out with quick service and consistent quality. Brunch offers bottomless mimosas alongside great dishes, and drinks often outshine the food.

Unique sauces set the calamari apart from typical versions. Flavorful dipping options and a Thai Calamari choice add variety. Manager removes calamari from the bill if issues arise.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, mouthwatering good."

"The bar service here is attentive and professional."

"Jay's exceptional service made the calamari experience fabulous."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with great drink deals.

2

Margarita Monday features $8 margaritas all day.

3

Tuesday offers $8 burgers, making it a popular choice.

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