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Best of Tampa

Calamari and salad spots

A salad and calamari pairing where the seafood is treated with as much attention as the greens.

Based on 653 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Driftlight Steakhouse image 1
Driftlight Steakhouse image 2
Driftlight Steakhouse image 3
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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.

Beef carpaccio and wedge salads stand out with fresh, crisp flavors. Beet salad pairs well with purple potato bread, while Caesar salad stays classic and tasty.

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 wedge salad here is a must-have."

"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.

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.

Papaya salad stands out with its crisp freshness and pairs well with crispy pork. The menu also features mango rice and other salads that balance sweet and savory flavors.

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."

"The papaya salad is so refreshing and crunchy."

"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
Caffรฉ 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.

Seafood salad stands out with fresh, flavorful ingredients. Caprese salad offers small tomato slices and a bit of mozzarella, keeping it simple and light.

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 calamari here is so tender and tastes the best."

"I found the seafood salad to be excellent."

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.

04
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.

Salads feature fresh ingredients with feta and Greek dressing. The chicken salad has a crispy breading that keeps the meat moist and flavorful.

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 thought the Greek salad here was the best I ever had."

"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.

05
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.

Salads include a house salad and a Caprese salad that stand out for their freshness. The Caesar salad comes with mozzarella and sausage, adding a unique twist.

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 salads here are so fresh and delicious."

"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.

06
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.

Complimentary garlic knots and salad come with meals. The salad pairs well with fresh bread and stands out as a notable starter.

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 family-style salad they serve is out of this world."

"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.

07
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.

Salads come with seafood options like salmon, shrimp, and blackened chicken. Portions vary from side salad size with basic greens to more substantial house and Caesar salads.

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."

"I found the house salad with salmon to be excellent."

"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.

08
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.

Large Caesar Salad features chopped lettuce and shaved cheese. Salads come with solid sides and pair well with other dishes.

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 salad here is delicious."

"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.

09
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.

Salads here feature fresh seafood like blackened sockeye salmon and crab, mango, and avocado. Options like the honey Dijon Cobb and salmon salad offer flavorful, filling choices with a healthy touch.

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 double chocolate brownie sundae was perfectly sweet."

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.

10
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.

Salads here range from a wedge salad with rich flavors to a Sunshine Shrimp Salad that feels light and refreshing. The chicken and salad combo offers a solid, balanced option.

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."

"Our server JJ was fantastic and so personable."

"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.

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.

Caesar salad stands out with a strong reputation. The menu also features a salad with salmon and a chopped salad noted as essential. Pasta side salads accompany some dishes like the flounder sandwich.

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 thought the Caesar salad was one of the best Iโ€™ve had."

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.

12
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.

Caesar salad comes with the prime rib and a side for $30. The salad stands out as delicious and well-prepared.

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."

"I thought the Caesar salad was exceptional, maybe the best I've had."

"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.

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