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Cozy calamari in the Garment District

A cozy corner that serves calamari that is tender and fresh instead of rubbery and over-fried.

Based on 653 Opinions
+650
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Updated May 2026
01
Catzuneko Shokudo | Sushi & Japanese Dining NYC image 1
Catzuneko Shokudo | Sushi & Japanese Dining NYC image 2
Catzuneko Shokudo | Sushi & Japanese Dining NYC image 3
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Tiny sushi spot with cat-themed decor creates a cozy, zen atmosphere that feels home-like and intimate. Fresh, high-quality sushi pairs well with unique cocktails served in playful glasses. Quiet during lunch, it draws a steady crowd impressed by its striking sushi display and pleasant vibe.

Cozy atmosphere features Japanese touches like fox masks and traditional dishware. The vibe feels welcoming and chill with a cute, cat-themed setting.

Fried calamari comes out perfectly cooked and flavorful without grease. It pairs well with beer and is often ordered more than once.

People are saying

"It's so cozy and cute with all the cat-themed plates and cups."

"This Lunch Spot has incredibly fresh sushi that's also reasonably priced."

"The fried calamari is light, crisp, and perfectly cooked."

Good to know

1

Happy hour features $6 food and drink items.

2

Lunch specials offer great value for money.

3

The restaurant has vegetarian options available.

02
Alessa Cucina & Bar image 1
Italian restaurant

Expansive Italian restaurant with spacious layout, massive main bar, and extra tall ceilings creates a chic yet inviting atmosphere. Subtle lighting and carefully curated decor set a cozy, elegant vibe where music enhances the experience. Tables are spaced far apart, supporting a relaxed pace even during busy times.

Inviting atmosphere features subtle lighting and carefully chosen decor that create a cozy layout. Bartender Ellie adds warmth with her friendly service and helpful wine recommendations.

Fritto misto includes calamari, shrimp, and zucchini, all lightly fried. Calamari comes with a spicy aioli but tends to be greasy.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are delicious and on point."

"The service here makes you feel so comfortable and taken care of."

"The calamari here is lightly battered and perfectly fried."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for larger groups, especially on weekends.

2

The restaurant can accommodate dietary restrictions with prior notice.

3

Expect to pay extra for soda refills during your meal.

03
Chatti by Regi Mathew image 1
South Indian restaurant

Space features warm earthy tones and traditional Kerala dรฉcor that create an authentic atmosphere reflecting Kerala's culture. Energy feels relaxing and vibrant, with carefully crafted cocktails like toddy and Malabar Old Fashioned enhancing the experience. The setting balances bright, airy intimacy with upscale, chic design.

Warm and inviting atmosphere blends modern comfort with traditional charm. Ambience reflects coastal and cultural elements, creating a calm and welcoming space.

Chilli Roasted Calamari offers a perfect balance of flavors with a mild spice level. Cochin Calamari is cooked to perfection and bursts with authentic flavor.

People are saying

"The Kerala food here is so authentic, packed with fresh spices and rich coconut flavor."

"The calamari here is bursting with authentic flavor and cooked to perfection."

"The Kerala flavors here are so authentic, it reminds me of home."

Good to know

1

Reservations are a must, especially during peak dining hours.

2

Prices are on the higher side, with smaller portion sizes.

3

Chatti is the first Kerala-style Indian restaurant in NYC.

04
Buena Vista Restaurant & Bar image 1

Small space with Latin American decor and a quiet, cozy atmosphere. Live Cuban and bachata music plays at a pleasant volume, sometimes featuring a violinist. Guests enjoy well-crafted cocktails and observe cooks preparing consistent, delicious food.

Exposed brick walls create an intimate setting that feels very cozy. Attentive service adds to the comfortable environment.

Seared Baby Calamari stands out with its phenomenal flavor that invites a second order. Calamari Ink Linguini combines sautรฉed scallops, shrimp, and spinach in a lemongrass creamy Alfredo, topped with pecorino and micro purple basil.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, especially the grilled octopus."

"The food here is spectacular, especially the octopus and ravioli."

"The calamari here is served with warm, friendly, and attentive service."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended as the restaurant can fill up quickly.

2

Brunch costs $40 per person and includes unlimited mimosas or sangria.

3

Happy hour drinks are available with great deals on weekdays.

05
Zoob Zib Thai Authentic Noodle Bar image 1

Small space with cramped seating creates a lively, noisy atmosphere filled with close tables and little privacy. Jazz music plays softly, adding a relaxed vibe despite the crowd. The setting feels cozy and fun, inviting guests to take their time.

Warm, attentive service stands out, like bringing a fan for a pregnant guest. The spot feels cozy with bold, flavorful dishes served quickly.

Crispy and flavorful fried calamari stands out here. The calamari is fresh and compares well to Mediterranean versions, making it a solid choice among appetizers.

People are saying

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

"The green curry here is balanced and has good depth."

"The fried calamari here is crispy and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Go for the lunch special by 3:30 pm.

2

Happy hour is available all day until 9 PM.

3

The kitchen last call is at 9:30 PM.

06
Legasea Bar & Grill image 1

Modern and elegant space with spacious table layout and a nice bar featuring a foosball table for waiting guests. Atmosphere is loud and lively with great music and attentive staff. Popular from Thursday to Saturday, it draws a crowd that enjoys unique cocktail offerings and a classy vibe.

Simple decor with dim lighting and natural light creates a relaxed, warm atmosphere. The dining area feels sophisticated yet comfortable and welcoming.

Crispy calamari comes perfectly cooked with a flavorful dipping sauce. It costs around $16 and pairs well with other dishes like ribeye.

People are saying

"I loved the unlimited ribeye steak and fries deal."

"I loved the unlimited ribeye steak deal for $45."

"The crispy calamari was perfectly cooked and delicious."

Good to know

1

$2 oysters and $8 wine from 3-6 is an unbeatable deal in midtown.

2

The unlimited ribeye special is only available on Sunday and Monday.

3

Everyone in the party must order the Unlimited Ribeye special to partake in the experience.

07
Tavola Hells Kitchen image 1
Italian restaurant

Interior preserves 1920s decor with historical fans and wood oven, creating a cozy, vintage atmosphere. Seating is tight and cramped, fostering a local, intimate vibe. The space feels like a small active town venue, distinct from typical city restaurants.

Warm and welcoming atmosphere creates a cozy vibe. Friendly staff and a manager who quickly makes you feel comfortable add to the inviting space.

Tender, beautifully breaded fried calamari comes with an exceptionally delicious gravy. The dish lacks tentacles but serves well as an appetizer.

People are saying

"The Italian food here is outstanding, with authentic flavors and perfectly cooked pasta."

"It's so cozy and intimate inside, with a warm, inviting ambiance."

"The fried calamari here is tender and beautifully breaded."

Good to know

1

Happy hour prices are available before 5 PM.

2

Lunch specials end at 3 PM.

3

Reservations are recommended to avoid long wait times.

08
Beer Authority image 1
Sports bar

Sports bar spans two floors plus a rooftop terrace with NYC street views and a lively atmosphere. Music is very loud inside, making conversation difficult, but the terrace offers a more balanced sound. Crowds fill the space, creating a busy, energetic vibe throughout.

Warm atmosphere with soft lighting creates a cozy vibe. Downstairs offers a quaint pub area perfect for meetups, while friendly service adds to the comfort.

Fried calamari comes out decent but tends to be low on salt. Quality varies from okay to amazing depending on the visit.

People are saying

"I found the beer selection to be great and wide."

"It's a super cozy spot with a warm, pub-like atmosphere."

"The calamari here has a unique flavor and its sauce complements it well."

Good to know

1

Happy Hour pricing starts at 11am.

2

There is a happy hour from 5pm to 7pm where draft beer costs 5 USD.

3

The small bar downstairs is cash only.

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Garment District, New York

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