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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Loved by locals

Calamari in NJ

The palate is jumping between the salt of calamari and the sweetness of chocolate.

Based on 481 Opinions
+478
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Updated May 2026
01
Five Corners Ristorante image 1
Five Corners Ristorante image 2
Five Corners Ristorante image 3
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Italian restaurant

Small, modern Italian restaurant offers an upscale but casual vibe with warm, inviting atmosphere and excellent decor reminiscent of Manhattan's West Village. Music stays toned down, making it easy to have conversations. Creative cocktails and standout dishes like exceptional carbonara add to the experience.

Fried calamari comes out crispy and tender with a fresh taste. It pairs well with a very good sauce that complements both calamari and shrimp starters.

Chocolate desserts include a lava cake that serves as a rich finale and a brownie paired with vanilla ice cream. Tiramisu also appears alongside these chocolate options.

People are saying

"The Italian food here, especially the pasta, is perfectly cooked and seasoned."

"The chocolate brownie was one of the best desserts I've ever had."

"The calamari here is crispy and tender."

Good to know

1

Parking around the restaurant is very limited, so plan to arrive early.

2

Reservations are recommended due to the restaurant's small size.

3

Happy hour offers great drinks at reasonable prices on weekdays.

02
Enzo Restaurant + Pizzeria image 1
Italian restaurant

Space combines speakeasy vibes with a beautiful back dining area and soft lighting that creates a warm, inviting atmosphere. Acoustics can make it loud when crowded, but the overall mood stays elegant and cozy. Guests often bring their own drinks, adding to the relaxed, personal feel.

Fried calamari stands out with a balsamic tasting dressing that adds a unique twist. It pairs well with other dishes like fettuccine Alfredo and mussels in marinara, making it a delicious starter.

Chocolate desserts feature huge slices of layer cake that are consistently delightful.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and delicious."

"You have to try the calamari; it's out of this world delicious."

"You have to try the chocolate cake; it's delightful."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended on Fridays and Saturdays due to high demand.

2

The restaurant is BYOB, so bring your favorite drinks.

3

They offer gluten-free options and are celiac friendly.

03
F1RST Restaurant image 1
American restaurant

Two dining rooms offer distinct warm, inviting decor with dim lighting and modern design. Atmosphere shifts from calm and elegant to lively with larger groups, maintaining a family-friendly vibe without pretension. Owner interaction adds a personal touch uncommon in similar restaurants.

Large pieces of calamari come very tender with a lime Caesar aioli that stands out. Some dishes pair calamari with artichoke hearts and roasted red peppers, offering a flavorful mix, though a few pieces can be over salted.

Signature dessert features housemade coconut brittle ice cream with toasted coconut and a bittersweet chocolate shell poured tableside. Other chocolate options include a rich dark chocolate element in the First Mounds Bar and a classic chocolate cake.

People are saying

"The calamari and artichokes were perfectly crispy and flavorful."

"The pork chop entree here is fantastic and tender."

"I've never had a grilled pork chop this tender and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Reservations are a must for dining at this restaurant.

2

The restaurant is BYOB, which provides some savings.

3

The total cost was $75 per person for a five-course meal.

04
Golden Horn Restaurant image 1

Elegant interior with bright, welcoming decor creates a romantic, warm atmosphere. Pleasant ambient music enhances the lively yet inviting vibe. Unique touch includes an old school dessert cart rolled out after the main course.

Fried calamari comes out light, fresh, and delicious. It stands out as a must-have dish here.

Chocolate desserts feature rich, smooth textures and amazing sauces. Options include chocolate cake, souffle, lava cake, and kanufe, often paired with Turkish tea or coffee.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and super flavorful."

"I loved the rich, smooth chocolate cake."

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

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for large parties to ensure seating.

2

The restaurant offers a variety of gluten-free options on the menu.

3

Expect a lively atmosphere, especially during weekends.

05
Ristorante MV image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant with impressive decor and a stunning bar design creates a warm and inviting atmosphere that buzzes with energy during busy times. Seating is tight, and live music can be loud, adding to the lively vibe. Outdoor seating and valet parking offer added convenience.

Fritturo Di Calamari comes out piping hot and super crispy, lightly fried to a perfect crunch. Fried calamari stands out as a highlight alongside baked eggplant, enjoyed by both adults and children.

Chocolate appears in chocolate ravioli and a chocolate torte dessert. The ravioli serve as a notable sweet finish, while the torte offers a rich, dense option after the main courses.

People are saying

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

"The chocolate ravioli was the perfect ending to our meal."

"The calamari is super crispy and piping hot."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers select wines and bottled beers at reasonable prices on Fridays.

2

Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially on weekends.

3

Expect higher prices for prix fixe menus on holidays without prior notice.

06
ONE11 Bar & Kitchen image 1
American restaurant

American restaurant offers a lively and welcoming atmosphere with live music and big screens for sports. Outdoor patio provides a comfy space where dogs are welcome. The design is thoughtfully crafted with a fresh, clean feel throughout.

Lightly fried with a zingy kick, the calamari is crispy and packed with flavor. The ginger calamari stands out as unexpectedly addictive and perfectly cooked.

Chocolate crรจme brรปlรฉe stands out with its rich, creamy texture and deep flavor. The chocolate tres leches dessert offers a moist, sweet experience that complements the menu well.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and always on point."

"The firecracker calamari is flavorful and not chewy at all."

"I found the cocktails to be amazing and perfectly crafted."

Good to know

1

Live music and DJ performances happen every Friday and Saturday night.

2

Wine specials are available on Wednesdays.

3

Salsa lessons are offered on Thursdays.

07
Trattoria Toscana image 1
Italian restaurant

Renovated space blends rustic touch with classy, clean atmosphere and dark lighting for an upper-class dining feel. Live music and a resident singer create a chill, engaging vibe throughout the week. Spacious layout includes a private room and lounge, supporting both intimate dinners and large gatherings.

Tender and clean calamari comes with a sweet and sour Asian-fusion twist. It is cooked perfectly and tastes delicious.

Light, airy chocolate mousse stands out among desserts. House-made Tiramisu also features alongside tea, coffee, and cheesecake.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, especially the seafood salad."

"The calamari here is tender and delicious."

"The chocolate mousse here is light, airy, and to die for."

Good to know

1

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

2

Live music happens every Friday night, enhancing the dining experience.

3

Brunch service is available on Saturdays and Sundays starting at the end of March.

08
Tavern 73 image 1
American restaurant

American sports bar with a wrap-around veranda and an airy interior featuring vines and a hanging garden overhead. Atmosphere is friendly and lively, often noisy with many TVs showing sporting events and games on screens. Offers a banquet room for parties and a sizable bar area for drinks.

Tender calamari comes with options like sweet Thai chili sauce or marinara. Each dish is well seasoned and cooked to perfection.

Nutella mousse cake and chocolate chip cookie stand out as rich chocolate desserts. Chocolate cake also features as a notable sweet option.

People are saying

"The food at these dinner spots is amazing, hot, and fresh."

"The calamari here is tender and cooked to perfection."

"I thought the chocolate cake was wonderful."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs on Fridays starting at 5:30 pm.

2

The restaurant is suitable for family events and gatherings.

3

Parking is available on-site for guests.

09
The Oak House image 1
Restaurant

Wooden interior and homey, country atmosphere create a beautiful, intimate space with a large dining room and bar area. Music and acoustics are extremely loud, often requiring raised voices. Staff are attentive, and the place balances between a sports bar vibe and upscale dining.

Crispy calamari comes with two very good sauces. The marinara sauce tastes homemade and is not sweet.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and top-notch."

"The calamari here is delicious and crispy with great sauces."

"The chocolate brownie sundae was OMG."

Good to know

1

Reservations are tough to get last minute, especially on weekends.

2

Valet parking is recommended due to limited street parking.

3

The menu is limited, with only two pasta dishes available.

10
Casa Ragazzi image 1
Restaurant

Elegant, modern Italian restaurant with a stylish, cozy interior and full bar offering expertly crafted cocktails. Atmosphere feels romantic and tranquil, ideal for date nights with great acoustics enhancing the experience. Tables sit close together, creating a lively but intimate setting.

Perfectly crispy calamari stands out with its exceptional freshness and unique preparation. Sauces served are atypical and flavorful, offering a different taste than usual marinara.

Chocolate desserts include a gianduia with hazelnut cream and a frozen raspberry center. Drinks feature a chocolate espresso martini and an espresso served inside a handmade chocolate ball that you break open.

People are saying

"The fresh pasta here is wonderfully rich and perfectly seasoned."

"The homemade pastas were deeply flavorful and soul-satisfying."

"The calamari here is perfectly crispy and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially on weekends.

2

Expect higher prices with smaller portion sizes, reflecting upscale dining.

3

Dress code is business casual; avoid shorts and athletic wear.

11
Nostimo Mediterranean Greek Restaurant image 1

Small space offers a cozy, intimate atmosphere with authentic Greek flavors. Outdoor seating provides a relaxing, comfortable spot with sun and heating options. Friendly vibe feels like dining with family, enhanced by warm, attentive service.

Grilled calamari comes out tender and light, cooked well every time. It pairs nicely with olive oil and tzatziki, making it a solid choice for appetizers.

Chocolate options include a giant chocolate cake priced at $7 and a Chocolate Baklava. The chocolate cake stands out for its size and value.

People are saying

"I found the Greek food here to be fresh and delicious."

"The calamari here is tender and light."

"The chocolate cake was giant and only $7."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is BYOB, so bring your own wine.

2

Prices are reasonable, and portions are large.

3

On weeknights through Thursday, they offer a 10% reduction in prices.

12
Taste 1864 image 1
American restaurant

Beautiful grounds and outdoor seating create a relaxing atmosphere with cozy fire pits and heated igloos. Live music adds vibrant energy, though volume varies. The setting combines classy aura with casual comfort.

Fried calamari comes out crispy and well-seasoned. It pairs well with other starters like the charcuterie board and Bavarian pretzel.

Chocolate espresso martini stands out as a signature drink. Wine flights paired with gourmet chocolates create a fun, interactive tasting. A boozy hot chocolate also features on the menu, even when not listed.

People are saying

"The food and service here are incredible."

"The chocolate here is amazing, and the staff goes above and beyond."

"The calamari here has such fun energy and passion."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for wine tastings and events to ensure availability.

2

The 'Whiskey Business' mixology event occurs monthly; check the schedule for dates.

3

Bubbles and Brunch events are held on Sundays with a special menu.

13
Rebecca's Edgewater-Mediterranean cuisine image 1

Small Mediterranean restaurant features a temperature-controlled greenhouse and a veranda for dining. Live music creates a warm and inviting ambiance, though it can be quite loud at times. Decor combines adorable furniture with a well-designed, aesthetic space.

Fried calamari comes out perfectly crispy and fresh. Calamari and peppers get a batter cooked to perfection. Appetizers often include this dish alongside lamb baklava.

Molten chocolate cake desserts feature rich melted chocolate paired with fruit. Chocolate lava cake offers a warm, gooey center that finishes meals well.

People are saying

"You should try the lamb baklava; it's uniquely delicious."

"The molten chocolate cake desserts were amazing."

"The calamari is perfectly crispy and fresh."

Good to know

1

BYOB is recommended for drinks.

2

Live music starts at 9:00 pm on Fridays and Saturdays.

3

Every weekend after 10 PM, there is a live Turkish music performance.

14
Felina Steak - Jersey City image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant offers stunning skyline views including the Statue of Liberty, visible from tables and a rooftop bar. Atmosphere combines live piano and band music with a romantic, inviting vibe. Patrons enjoy signature cocktails and expertly cooked steaks in a setting that blends cityscape and live entertainment.

Crunchy but very light breading tops the calamari, making it really good. The marinara sauce served alongside is incredible, complementing the dish well.

Chocolate appears in rich desserts like chocolate mousse and tiramisu. Chocolate covered strawberries come with a hint of truffle and pair with espresso martinis.

People are saying

"The city skyline views from here are amazing."

"The calamari here is so attentive and knowledgeable."

"You have to try the chocolate mousse and espresso martinis."

Good to know

1

Access to the rooftop is granted only to patrons who purchase a steak.

2

Reservations are recommended for special events like weddings and galas.

3

Happy hour offers discounted drinks and appetizers on weekdays.

15
The Table image 1
Restaurant

Large, versatile space hosts multiple events with live Bossa Nova music and a tree slab table centerpiece. Atmosphere feels welcoming and charming, with excellent cocktails and a cozy vibe suited for romantic or social gatherings.

Crispy texture stands out with the calamari, making it a highlight. Preparation is solid and flavors come through clearly.

Flourless chocolate cake offers a decadently rich and fudgy texture. It tastes quite delicious and stands out as a dessert option.

People are saying

"The food here is spectacular, especially the burgers and fries."

"The calamari here was mostly squid fingers and a bit oily."

"The flourless chocolate cake is fudgy, rich, and delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for brunch, especially on weekends.

2

The cocktail class is hosted by Juan and is highly rated.

3

Private event space is available for gatherings of up to 40 people.

16
Marmara Mediterranean Cuisine image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Mediterranean restaurant offers a welcoming atmosphere with large windows overlooking a mall floor. Entertainment includes skilled belly dancing that engages all ages. Tables feature touch lights with adjustable modes, creating a unique dining experience.

Fried calamari comes with a chewy texture that stands out. It pairs well with the dips served alongside, making for a solid starter.

Chocolate baklava and Kanafe stand out with rich, chocolate layers and a unique twist. The on-site made Chocolate Souffle offers a deep chocolate flavor and a soft texture.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, well-presented, and full of flavor."

"The calamari here is absolutely delicious."

"The chocolate mousse cake and baklava were delicious."

Good to know

1

The restaurant features a belly dancing performance every Friday night.

2

Reservations are recommended for special events like belly dancing.

3

Parking is ample and available near the restaurant.

17
Molos image 1
Seafood restaurant

Restaurant sits on a deck above water with breathtaking NYC skyline views. Atmosphere feels calm and upscale with a cozy, romantic vibe. Offers both indoor and outdoor seating, including a private upstairs room for events.

Fried calamari comes crispy and in large portions. It stands out as delicious and better than many Manhattan spots.

Chocolate desserts include Chocolate Lava Cake and a unique Dubai chocolate dessert. Other sweets like Baklava Feuilletine and Galakotoboureko also appear on the menu.

People are saying

"The food here was delicious and top of the line."

"The calamari here has an amazing waterfront view."

"The view of the Manhattan skyline is stunning."

Good to know

1

Happy hour is only available at the bar, not in the dining area.

2

The venue can host events for up to 100 people on the second floor.

3

Reservations are recommended for special occasions to avoid disappointment.

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