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Lunch spots with calamari in Hell's Kitchen

A midday break is only complete when you can sit down for a proper plate of calamari.

Based on 874 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Pasta Eater Hell’s Kitchen image 1
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Small, cozy space with Italian ambiance and pleasant music offers a family-like feel. Perfectly fried calamari and a tasty calamari mixto shine as appetizers. Lunch features a $10 pasta special with generous portions in a quiet, relaxed setting.

Perfectly fried calamari stands out here. The appetizer calamari mixto offers a delicious mix.

Lunch offers a $10 pasta special with generous portions and reasonable prices. The spot stays quiet, making it easy to enjoy a relaxed meal.

People are saying

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

"This Lunch Spot has delicious, homemade pasta with flavorful sauces."

"I thought the calamari was delicious and packed with flavor."

Good to know

1

Pasta Night happens every Wednesday from 6pm to 8pm with a lively atmosphere.

2

Enjoy a $10 pasta special during lunch with selected dishes.

3

Happy hour offers great deals on drinks and appetizers.

02
V{IV} image 1
Thai restaurant

Interior features vibrant decor and a stunning light-up dragon that create a cute aesthetic. Atmosphere combines upbeat music with lively energy, though noise levels can be high. Seating includes both indoor and isolated outdoor options, accommodating families and groups.

Fried calamari comes crispy outside and tender inside. It appears in several dishes, including a spicy version called MUK KAI KEM and as a popular appetizer alongside chicken satay and shrimp dumplings.

Lunch offers excellent deals with meals around $12 including a beer. The spot suits workday lunches well and delivers a consistent experience.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, flavorful, and fresh."

"This Lunch Spot's food was excellent and delicious."

"The calamari here is crispy on the outside and tender inside."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily from 12 PM to 7 PM, but closed from 3:45 PM to 5 PM.

2

Reservations are highly recommended as the restaurant fills up quickly.

3

The happy hour offers discounted drinks and snacks, making it a great deal.

03
Molyvos image 1
Restaurant

Small space with bright, inviting decor featuring Rhodian ceramics and a stacked stone wall creates a warm, sophisticated atmosphere. Large outdoor terrace offers a pleasant setting for conversation. Energy suits both intimate dinners and larger gatherings.

Aegean Crispy Calamari comes with tasty dips that complement its crunch. It pairs well with a fresh Greek salad and grilled fish for a solid meal.

Offers a pre-fixe menu ideal for group lunches. Lunch specials include a small appetizer and entree combo for $30, suitable for dates, catching up with friends, or business meetings.

People are saying

"The Greek food here is amazing, and the staff is so friendly."

"This lunch spot's Greek dishes were so delicious, I returned three times."

"The calamari appetizer with two dipping sauces was the best I've ever eaten."

Good to know

1

The bottomless brunch is available on weekends with a two-hour limit.

2

Reservations are recommended for large parties to ensure seating.

3

The restaurant offers a prix fixe menu after 7:30 PM with unlimited wine pairing.

04
Bocca di Bacco Theater District image 1

Italian restaurant offers a medium-sized dining room with nice decor and artwork that creates a lovely ambiance. Atmosphere feels intimate but can get loud when full, with a welcoming vibe overall. Bar is small, featuring notable cocktails crafted by skilled bartenders.

Calamari fritti stands out as a highlight here, noted for its quality and flavor. It often comes alongside dishes like shrimp and zucchini, making for a well-rounded appetizer selection.

Offers a $24 prix fixe menu with good value and tasty options. Suitable for business lunches or meals before a matinee.

People are saying

"The Italian food here is amazing, and the service is super quick."

"The lunch prix fixe here is a great value."

"I found the calamari to be excellent and highly recommend it."

Good to know

1

Reservations should be made at least 2 hours before a show for a timely meal.

2

The happy hour offers great drink deals.

3

The brunch offers bottomless drinks for $24 with a selection to choose from.

05
SESAMO - Italian Restaurant Hell's Kitchen image 1

Cozy Italian restaurant blends rustic and Asian modern styles with a fun outdoor patio and bar seating. Atmosphere feels romantic and relaxing with enjoyable music and a premium ambiance. Space is intimate with tables close together, attracting groups and couples alike.

Calamari comes with a perfect lemon and tajin seasoning that stands out. It appears as a wild calamari fritti appetizer and pairs well with other dishes like arancini and pasta.

Lunch offers a great menu with consistently good dishes. Weekday options include happy hour deals that add value to the meal.

People are saying

"The food here is masterfully prepared and perfectly executed."

"The calamari here is perfectly cooked and very moreish."

"The pasta dishes here are outstanding, especially the duck ragu."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers great deals on drinks and appetizers during the week.

2

The restaurant has late night hours on Fridays and Saturdays until 2am.

3

Bottomless brunch is available on weekends with a set price.

06
Il Divino image 1
Italian restaurant

Cozy Italian restaurant with indoor and outdoor seating offers an intimate atmosphere enhanced by live music and views of passersby. The vibe blends authentic Italian charm with a relaxed, inviting energy suitable for savoring meals and wine.

Fried calamari arrives cooked to perfection with a crisp texture. It pairs well as a starter alongside bruschetta.

Lunch offers a prix fixe special at $16.95 including wine, a starter, and a main course. Some menu items like calamari and tiramisu are not part of the lunch deal despite app listings, which can affect perceived value.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, fresh, and well-presented."

"I thought the lunch here was superb."

"The calamari here is cooked to perfection."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm on weekdays with discounted drinks.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends.

3

The $23 prix fixe menu offers great value for a full meal.

07
The Greek Kitchen image 1
Greek restaurant

Greek restaurant offers a spacious dining room decorated in blue and white with a Mediterranean corner design. Atmosphere feels cozy and lively, welcoming both couples and large groups, with a patio providing excellent views and people watching. Greek beer and cocktails stand out among drink options.

Fried calamari comes out perfectly crispy on the outside and tender inside, paired with a tangy dipping sauce. Grilled calamari also appears on the menu and holds up well alongside other dishes.

Quick service delivers gyro sandwiches and platters efficiently. Lunch features great service and a pleasant atmosphere.

People are saying

"The Mediterranean food here, especially the tzatziki and hummus, is the best I've ever tasted."

"This lunch spot's Greek salad and gyro sandwiches were delicious."

"The calamari here is perfectly crispy and tender."

Good to know

1

Reservations are preferred but walk-ins will be seated.

2

A gratuity of 20% is included in the bill.

3

Be prepared to wait for a table during peak hours.

08
Kyma Hudson Yards image 1
Greek restaurant

Greek restaurant combines elegant décor with a lively dance atmosphere fueled by a top-tier DJ playing diverse music styles. Spacious layout includes outdoor seating, though tables are packed closely. Guests engage actively, dancing and celebrating, creating a vibrant, energetic vibe.

Grilled calamari stands out as a favorite appetizer, served alongside dishes like octopus and lamb chops. The calamari is consistently described as delicious and pairs well with other seafood options.

Offers a weekday lunch menu with an appetizer and main course for $30. Portions and prices feel reasonable for NYC. Serves as a quick lunch break spot with a Greek menu.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and beautifully presented."

"The grilled calamari here is super fresh and full of flavor."

"I had an excellent lunch here; the food was delicious."

Good to know

1

Dinner service starts at 5 PM.

2

Happy hour ends at 6 PM and only applies to the bar area.

3

Expect to pay an additional 40-50% on top of your bill due to surcharges and tips.

09
OBAO image 1
Vietnamese restaurant

Narrow space with tables set about 10 inches apart creates a crowded atmosphere. Dark interior and lovely decor featuring a portrait of an elephant and young prince set a lively mood. A DJ spins house and dance beats, adding energy to the environment.

Sambal spiced calamari stands out with its flavorful seasoning and crispy texture. The spicy version also delivers a great taste and perfect cooking.

Lunch features delicious food and honored specials even late in the afternoon. Service is attentive, making the meal experience smooth and enjoyable.

People are saying

"The food here is fantastic, thanks to Jennie's great service."

"The staff here makes you feel welcome, seen, and cared for."

"The calamari here is unique and perfectly seasoned."

Good to know

1

Happy hour is daily until 6pm with affordable drinks at the bar.

2

There is a lunch special available.

3

Reservations are highly recommended, especially before Broadway shows.

10
Kausa image 1
Peruvian restaurant

Peruvian restaurant offers live music and outdoor seating with a bright, cheery decor. The space feels cozy and romantic but tables are close together, making conversations difficult. Drinks feature top-rated Pisco Sours and a wide selection of Latin American liquors.

Fried calamari comes as a starter with other dishes like anticuchos and ceviche mixto. Some pieces have a rubbery texture, but it pairs well with tostones and other seafood options.

Lunch features delicious food and excellent customer service. Specials stand out as top choices for midday meals.

People are saying

"I highly recommend the ceviche; it's one of the best I've had."

"This lunch spot has delicious food with vibrant, authentic Peruvian flavors."

"I loved the calamari; it was to die for."

Good to know

1

The restaurant charges a mandatory 25% tip on all bills.

2

Expect additional fees that may increase your total by up to 39%.

3

Happy hour runs from 12 PM to 9 PM daily with $7 drinks.

11
Bocca di Bacco image 1
Italian restaurant

Warm, rustic decor creates an intimate and authentic Italian atmosphere with close seating and dim lighting. The space balances casual and refined vibes, attracting groups and couples alike. A lively bar area offers notable cocktails alongside the dining room.

Perfectly crispy and tender, the calamari melts in your mouth with flavorful seasoning. Fried calamari and shrimp stand out as a highlight on the menu.

Offers a pre fixe 3-course lunch deal and restaurant week specials with good kid-friendly options. Drinks like espresso martinis come at a reasonable price during lunch.

People are saying

"The Italian food here is delicious, especially the creamy Rigatoni Vodka."

"The prix fixe lunch is a great value."

"The calamari here is perfectly crispy, tender, and flavorful."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a bottomless brunch with mimosas on weekends.

2

Daily specials are available, providing good value for meals.

3

Reservations are required for large parties, especially during busy times.

12
Barking Dog Hell’s Kitchen image 1
American restaurant

Outdoor seating in a quiet plaza offers a relaxed vibe away from city noise, with pet-friendly amenities including a pup menu and water bowls. Indoor space is compact but well-utilized, featuring a small bar and dome setup. The atmosphere balances calmness and casual comfort near a busy theater district.

Calamari appears as a standout dish, served alongside items like eggplant rollatini and spinach artichoke dip. It also features in fish tacos and as a main choice, showing its versatility and appeal.

Lunch offers a fantastic atmosphere and friendly service from Lucy and Samuel. The spot welcomes dogs, making it a great choice for lunch outings with pets.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and delicious."

"This lunch spot treats your dog like a visiting dignitary."

"The calamari and fish tacos were delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers $5 beers from 3-6 PM.

2

Bring your dog for a discount during happy hour.

3

Barking Dog has a Valentine’s Special Dinner with a three-course meal and Prosecco.

13
Sicily Osteria image 1
Italian restaurant

Modern Italian restaurant offers massive space with stylish decor and multiple dining areas including an outdoor patio and glass roof terrace. Atmosphere feels inviting and evokes Amalfi coast vibes with a friendly, relaxed energy. Guests enjoy beautiful outdoor seating and a setting that balances elegance with comfort.

Calamari stands out with its perfect seasoning and well-cooked texture. It appears both as a standalone appetizer and in the Fritti Misto alongside shrimp and vegetables.

Lunch offers a prix fixe menu with a generous amount of food for $25. The dishes are consistently delicious and provide good value for the price.

People are saying

"The homemade pasta and sauces in this Italian food are rich and flavorful."

"The service at this Lunch Spot was professional and accommodating."

"I've never had calamari this perfectly cooked and seasoned."

Good to know

1

Securing a reservation is highly recommended due to the restaurant's popularity.

2

Happy hour is only available on the bar side of the restaurant.

3

The restaurant week lunch menu offers 3 courses for $30 on Sunday afternoons.

14
West Side Steakhouse image 1

Smaller space with close tables and warm lighting creates a cozy atmosphere suited for celebrations and business dinners. Indoor and covered outdoor seating offer options, while decor features historic city photos. Music adds to the lively vibe despite some noise.

Fried calamari serves as a popular appetizer here, with a solid 8 out of 10 rating. It pairs well with clams and is a favorite choice for many.

Lunch offers a well-cooked filet mignon with perfect caramelization. The spot stays quiet during late lunch hours.

People are saying

"You can get a great steak here at a reasonable cost."

"The New York steak at this Lunch Spot is fantastic, cooked perfectly."

"The fried calamari was tasty and yummy."

Good to know

1

Booking in advance is useful due to the busy nature of the restaurant.

2

The last lunch order is at 3:30 PM.

3

The bill cannot be split.

15
Vinny’s Gluten Free Kitchen image 1

Small Italian eatery with separate pizza ovens and gluten-free menu options offers a clean, welcoming space with open windows and doors. Atmosphere blends NYC pizza shop vibes with a casual, relaxed energy. Seating suits dine-in comfort amid a busy urban setting.

Calamari stands out with its amazing flavor and consistent quality. It pairs well with other dishes like pesto ricotta pizza and gluten free options.

Lunch offers a variety of options that satisfy different tastes. Meals come with gluten-free choices and maintain consistent quality throughout the day.

People are saying

"I finally had amazing gluten-free pizza that tasted like real pizza."

"This is a great lunch spot for amazing gluten-free options."

"I've never had calamari this amazing."

Good to know

1

They have a separate gluten-free menu, but it's not 100% safe for celiacs.

2

Expect cross-contamination as they share equipment with gluten items.

3

Celiacs should beware of potential cross-contamination.

16
Aqua Boil image 1
Seafood restaurant

Interior design mimics a nautical boathouse with dimmed lighting creating a cozy atmosphere. Seafood is served in bags with disposable cutlery and gloves, making dining informal and interactive. Music plays at a lively volume, encouraging a vibrant energy throughout.

Fried calamari arrives fresh and hot, with a soft texture and perfect cooking. It often comes in combo baskets alongside shrimp and catfish.

Lunch specials offer great value with reasonable prices and include options like a mix of the lunch special and seafood boil. The spot features yummy seafood and a vibe suited for casual outings.

People are saying

"I experienced the best seafood boil in the city."

"This Lunch Spot has incredibly fresh and flavorful seafood."

"The calamari here is soft, fresh, and perfectly cooked."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially between 6-8 PM.

2

Happy hour drinks are $6 all day from Monday to Thursday.

3

From Friday to Sunday, happy hour drinks are $6 before 7 PM.

17
Becco image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant offers tight, family-style seating with tables placed very close together, creating a cozy but loud atmosphere. The space fills quickly, often with lively groups, making conversations challenging. A large wine list at fixed prices complements the energetic dining experience.

Calamari dishes offer a punchy, savory brine that tastes fresh and oceanic. Options include a calamari arrabbiata pasta and a simple fried calamari that pairs well with salads for a light meal.

Lunch offers a mushroom and sage stuffed ravioli that melts in your mouth. Specials vary and suit groups well, making it a solid choice for a pre or post Broadway show meal.

People are saying

"The Italian food, especially the pasta and appetizers, is amazing."

"The calamari here is very tasty and excellent."

"The food at this Lunch Spot is amazing and delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to the restaurant's popularity.

2

The restaurant offers a $35 all-you-can-eat pasta deal.

3

Wednesdays feature a unique experience with a cheese dish prepared tableside.

18
Pio Pio 8 image 1
Peruvian restaurant

Massive dining space combines modern Peruvian decor with a loud nightclub vibe in the basement. Dim lighting and narrow seating create a cool, high-end atmosphere with a friendly energy. Guests enjoy delicious cocktails and standout chicken dishes amid a lively, stylish setting.

Fried calamari comes with a light, dry crust that avoids greasiness. It pairs well with a mild spicy green sauce served at the start.

Warm, dimly lit ambiance suits family gatherings and casual lunches. Lunch specials include a chicken special, drink, side salad, and extra rice and beans for under $18, offering good value and generous portions.

People are saying

"The ceviche here is fabulous and the seafood super fresh."

"The lunch special with a quarter chicken is a great bargain."

"The calamari here is surprisingly light and not heavy or oily."

Good to know

1

The restaurant has a C food rating, indicating potential health risks.

2

Reservations are highly recommended as they are booked up most of the time.

3

The restaurant only accepts cash for deliveries.

19
Mama Mia 44SW image 1
Italian restaurant

Small Italian restaurant with cozy, homey atmosphere and vintage family decor creates a romantic, intimate setting. Live jazz music often enhances the mood, though it is not always present. Lighting tends to be very dim, adding to the quiet, comfortable vibe.

Very tender and delicate calamari offers a delicious start to meals. It avoids being over fried and pairs well with seafood dishes.

Lunch happens outside with outdoor seating available. Saturdays around 1 pm see a relaxed vibe for a midday meal.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, like a party in your mouth."

"Connie's passion for her family's restaurant was inspiring."

"This Italian lunch spot feels like a family restaurant in Italy."

Good to know

1

Live music starts at 6 pm on weekends, enhancing the dining experience.

2

Reservations are not required for Thursday dining, making it easier to visit.

3

A 20% automatic gratuity is added to all bills, regardless of party size.

20
The Blue Dog Cookhouse & Bar image 1
American restaurant

Small, intimate space with a community table and classic black-and-white movies playing on a projector. Atmosphere feels romantic and elegant yet chill, with a lively but cozy energy. Cocktails stand out as a distinctive feature, complementing the overall experience.

Crispy, tender, and full of flavor, the calamari is perfectly fried and stands out as a crowd pleaser. Breaded but far from dull, it delivers a fantastic texture and taste.

Casual lunch and brunch options include an exceptional chicken selection. Service stands out with excellent attention during meals, making it a solid choice for a midday meal before events.

People are saying

"The crab cake eggs Benedict is the best brunch I've ever had."

"The burgers and cocktails at this Lunch Spot are delicious."

"The calamari here is fantastic and perfectly fried and tender and crispy."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to secure a table, especially on weekends.

2

Brunch is available until 3 p.m. every day.

3

Expect a two-hour dining limit during peak hours.

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Hell's Kitchen, New York

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