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Calamari dinner spots in Long Island City

You expect your dinner to include well-prepared calamari as a non-negotiable starter.

Based on 788 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
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Gastropub

Gastropub with old-school upscale vibe featuring dark wood decor and hand-painted murals creates a cozy, welcoming atmosphere. Music plays consistently, and the space includes large indoor and outdoor seating areas. Dog-friendly environment attracts locals looking for a chill place to work or socialize.

Fried calamari stands out with its crispy texture and fresh flavor. It pairs well with other dishes like burgers and Thai chili wings.

Dinner features excellent meals served on a terrace with a convenient location near a hotel. Staff like Ellie provide great care during dinner, enhancing the experience.

People are saying

"The food here is fantastic and really good."

"The food at these dinner spots is awesome, especially the flavorful penne a la vodka."

"The calamari here was out of this world."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is within a short walk from Queensboro Plaza and the subway.

2

Happy hour drink deals are available.

3

The restaurant offers a great brunch.

02
Chef Papa Vietnamese Kitchen LIC image 1

Space combines indoor and outdoor areas with semi-outdoor patio featuring string lighting and a clear roof covering. Atmosphere stays cozy and quiet with relaxing music enhancing the vibe. Patrons enjoy a pet-friendly patio and a view of the night sky through the ceiling.

Fried calamari stands out with its crispy texture and pairs well with a signature nuoc mam sauce. It consistently impresses as a must-have dish alongside other favorites.

Great vibe and a casual atmosphere make it ideal for dinner after work. Suitable for both casual dinners and lunches.

People are saying

"The Vietnamese food, especially the pho broth, is rich and flavorful."

"The dinner pho broth was delicious with generous protein."

"The fried calamari is perfectly crispy and tender."

Good to know

1

The restaurant does not have a liquor license.

2

Customers on crutches or with disabilities may have difficulty waiting to be seated.

3

The restaurant does not allow customers to sit without all parties present.

03
Manetta's Ristorante image 1
Italian restaurant

Interior features a wood-fired brick oven and a real fireplace, creating a warm, cozy atmosphere with classic 1970s decor. The space feels authentically Italian and offers friendly, attentive service. Natural light fills the room during the day, enhancing the inviting vibe.

Crispy texture stands out in the fried calamari, paired with hearty marinara. Cooking quality varies, with some batches needing more softness and crispiness.

Dinner here feels like a warm hug with home cooked Italian dishes. Staff stays really nice, making it good for quiet or family dinners.

People are saying

"The pasta here is cooked perfectly and tastes so fresh."

"The Italian dinner here felt like a warm hug."

"The calamari here is crispy and well cooked."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for large groups to ensure seating.

2

Expect long wait times during peak hours, especially on weekends.

3

Parking can be challenging in the area; consider public transport.

04
No5nyc & The Vegoist image 1
Vegan restaurant

Space blends hipster Brooklyn club vibe with a huge covered patio and live performances. Atmosphere ranges from cozy and intimate with low lighting to loud music and nightclub energy. Menu focuses on vegan dishes with some non-vegan options, featuring standout vegan tacos and flavorful plant-based burgers.

Mushroom calamari stands out with its creamy spicy dip and comes with three sauces, especially the salsa verde. The vegan calamari is also very good and arrives quickly as an appetizer.

Saturday night dinners have a romantic atmosphere with nice lighting. The vibe suits brunch, dinner, or any occasion.

People are saying

"The vegetarian tacos here have incredible flavor."

"The atmosphere here is so cool, with a funky-disco vibe."

"The food at these dinner spots is so flavorful and delicious."

05
Manducatis image 1
Southern Italian restaurant

Corner entrance leads into a deceptively spacious, three dining rooms setting with exposed brick and stone walls. Atmosphere feels like a warm 1960โ€™s time capsule, cozy and historic, evoking a traditional Italian home. Family-run vibe attracts both small and large groups seeking authentic Southern Italian experience.

Freshness stands out in the calamari salad, which tastes bright and crisp. Fried calamari comes lightly breaded with a red sauce that adds a nice kick.

Family-style dinners create a warm, communal atmosphere. Every meal feels special and memorable, making it a spot where groups enjoy gathering.

People are saying

"The homemade pasta and veal milanese are fantastic Italian food."

"This place feels like a cozy, authentic Italian family home for dinner."

"You have to try the calamari; it's always fresh and tasty."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for larger groups to ensure seating.

2

The restaurant does not accept digital payments; cash is preferred.

3

Desserts are a highlight, with unique offerings that change regularly.

06
Drinkology NYC image 1
Cocktail bar

Contemporary prohibition-era speakeasy with tasteful interior and hand-painted menus creates a cozy, elegant vibe. Live music ranges from jazz to disco house, energizing the space especially on weekends. Creative cocktails and well-crafted food complement the stylish, spacious bar setting.

Fried calamari offers a perfect balance of crunchiness and chewiness. The buttermilk coating adds a rich flavor that makes it a standout appetizer.

Modern setting with classy details creates a nice atmosphere for dinner. It suits both casual meals and evenings out with friends or partners.

People are saying

"The food here is outstanding, fresh, and innovative."

"You have to try the smoke-infused cocktail; it's the best drink I ever had."

"The fried calamari is so good, perfectly crunchy and chewy."

Good to know

1

Live jazz performances occur every Wednesday night.

2

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with discounted drinks.

3

Private events can be booked in advance for special occasions.

07
Serafina Long Island City image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant offers beautiful interior with warm, inviting atmosphere enhanced by classic NYC music. The vibe feels both elegant and cozy, suitable for date nights or outings with friends. Cocktails like the banana old fashioned stand out among a menu with wide variety.

Crispy and well seasoned calamari comes with a squeeze of lemon. Some find it has a fishy taste, while others enjoy it alongside burrata and prosciutto appetizers.

Excellent service from Valentina makes dinners memorable. They offer special meals like Father's Day dinner and maintain a fantastic dinner experience.

People are saying

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

"The pasta dishes here are delicious and layered with flavor."

"The calamari appetizer was crispy and well seasoned."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, but it can get busy.

2

The menu offers a wide variety of choices for all tastes.

3

Payment can be made directly at the table using a QR code.

08
Go Nonna image 1
Italian restaurant

Cozy Italian trattoria-style space with closely spaced tables indoors and a larger, lively outdoor seating area. Inviting atmosphere with warm decor and intimate vibe inside, contrasted by noisy outdoor seating. Known for fresh pasta, quality ingredients, and a variety of well-crafted cocktails.

Fritto Misto features fried calamari, shrimp, and zucchini served with a tomato sauce. The calamari comes as part of a mixed starter with other fried items.

Perfect for romantic dinners and special occasions, the ambiance suits date nights or small group dinners. It works well for celebrations and casual meals with friends or family.

People are saying

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

"The pasta dishes here are delicious; I can't wait to try more."

"The Fritto Misto appetizer, with calamari and shrimp, was the best."

Good to know

1

Reservations should be made prior to visiting due to limited seating.

2

The restaurant only accepts cash payments, so plan accordingly.

3

Call ahead if you are with a larger group, as the space is small.

09
Psari image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seafood restaurant offers a welcoming atmosphere with a vibe that blends elegance and comfort. Indoor and outdoor seating provide versatile dining options for casual or dress-up occasions. The environment feels like a relaxing beach escape with fresh, clean decor and a peaceful mood.

Grilled calamari stands out with a smoky, tender texture. Freshness shines through in the calamari and octopus, both prepared with care and flavor.

Versatile ambiance fits both dress-up date nights and casual dinners. Suitable for a quick lunch or a lovely dinner date.

People are saying

"The seafood soup here is hearty and a great value."

"You have to try the seafood soup at these dinner spots."

"I thought the grilled calamari here was the best I had ever tasted."

Good to know

1

The special seafood soup is only served on Wednesdays and another weekend day.

2

On Mother's Day, each mom at Psari received a rose.

3

You should bring cash to avoid the card fee.

10
American Brass image 1
American restaurant

Art Deco design shapes a clubby interior with low lighting and a live band adding energy. Outdoor seating offers a pleasant waterfront ambiance with views of the city skyline. The space welcomes dogs and features a separate bar area for relaxed socializing.

Calamari comes out melt-in-the-mouth and crunchy, cooked very well. It pairs nicely with a fresh salad and stands out as a fantastic starter.

Dinner features personalized touches like printed photos on menus and dessert blondies for guests. Hosts can arrange customized meals and accommodate large groups up to 60 with attentive service.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and fresh."

"The food and drinks here are amazing."

"The calamari here is perfectly cooked, crunchy, and melt-in-your-mouth."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for Saturday nights due to high demand.

2

The restaurant offers a happy hour with great deals on drinks and appetizers.

3

Happy hour is only available during dinner hours.

11
IBN Hamido Seafood image 1
Seafood restaurant

Ordering happens by a pond where fresh seafood is selected and cooked on site, surrounded by walls covered with fish tanks. Loud music and crowded seating create a lively, vibrant atmosphere that feels like a bustling fish market. Outdoor heated seating and an open kitchen add to the busy, energetic vibe.

Grilled calamari stands out with its exceptional flavor and texture. The dish ranks among the best calamari experiences, alongside other seafood like shrimp and scallops.

Dinner features whole open grilled fish with a special red spicy rub that sells well. Group dinners focus on trying various fish and sides for a satisfying seafood meal.

People are saying

"The seafood here is unbelievably fresh and tastes amazing."

"The calamari here is perfectly grilled and incredibly fresh."

"The wait for dinner spots can be over an hour on weekends."

Good to know

1

Expect to wait on a Saturday night.

2

The lunch special is available until 4pm on weekdays.

3

You have to order before they give you a table.

12
What the fish image 1
Restaurant

Restaurant combines live DJ music and loud atmosphere that makes conversation difficult. Interior features red lighting and Instagrammable decor creating a vibrant, visually striking space. Crowd energy peaks with live entertainment including comedy and expert cocktails.

Fried calamari comes out crispy and delicious with a consistently excellent flavor.

Dinner here suits birthday celebrations, friend hangouts, and family dinners. The atmosphere fits well for date nights and casual gatherings.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was amazing and full of flavor."

"The service at these dinner spots is so attentive and fast."

"The calamari here is delicious."

Good to know

1

This place only accepts cash; credit cards are not accepted.

2

Reservations are necessary for a specific seating time due to limited space.

3

An 18% service charge is automatically added for dine-in for two.

13
Astoria Seafood image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seafood restaurant offers outdoor seating with options in sun or shade and a BYOB policy. Inside features an open kitchen and decor resembling a fish market. Atmosphere is lively with Greek music and a rustic vibe, though indoor space is limited and noisy.

Fried calamari comes with just the right amount of breading and cooks perfectly. It stands out as a top-quality, fresh seafood option among other dishes like grilled shrimp and scallops.

Impeccable food and service stand out during busy Saturday dinners. Freshly fried calamari and grilled fish make for a tasty dinner experience.

People are saying

"The food here is so fresh, especially the seafood you pick yourself."

"I thought the calamari here were excellent."

"I loved picking my fresh seafood and having it cooked perfectly for dinner."

Good to know

1

Customers need to tell the staff how they want their food grilled or fried.

2

You can bring your own bottle of alcohol (BYOB).

3

The wait time at the store is about 40 minutes.

14
Jungly image 1
Restaurant

Space combines chic decor with versatile rooms including a lively bar, dining area, and private event space. Atmosphere shifts from sophisticated dining to clubby lounge with live music and DJ sets. Cocktails stand out for their creative mixology, complementing a fun and elegant vibe.

Calamari comes with a Thai sauce that adds a unique twist. It appears alongside other appetizers like salad and pizza, all noted as delicious.

Offers a complimentary glass of prosecco or rosรฉ and a cake pop after dinner. Serves well for private dinner parties and casual dinners.

People are saying

"I hosted my birthday party here and it was an amazing experience."

"I loved their perfectly made cocktails, especially the refreshing Jungly Punch."

"The calamari here is served by the friendliest, most attentive staff."

Good to know

1

The private room can be reserved for events and decorated the night before.

2

Happy hour specials are available and considered the best in Long Island City.

3

Jungly hosts innovative pop-ups and special events throughout the week.

15
Avenue Restobar image 1
Greek restaurant

Open space with huge windows and a big island bar creates a bright, inviting setting. Music ranges from live DJ sets with reggaeton and reggae to quieter moments suitable for conversation. Crowd is diverse and family-friendly, with a vibe that balances lively energy and cozy comfort.

Fried calamari comes out crispy and delicious. It works well as an appetizer and pairs nicely with a mojito or a cold beer.

Dinner here features the Avenue Club paired with Iced Tea, a common choice. The spot handles last-minute dinner plans smoothly and suits celebrations like birthdays.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, perfectly cooked and seasoned."

"The dinner spots here are amazing, especially the salmon."

"I found the fried calamari to be delicious."

Good to know

1

There is a credit card fee that is mentioned on their website but not in person.

2

Customers must go to the bar to pay with Apple Pay.

3

The place has a bottomless brunch that ends at 8 pm.

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Long Island City, New York

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