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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks in Midtown East

Calamari

Made for those who consider calamari an essential starting point for any meal.

Based on 653 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
OBAO Midtown Thai & Vietnamese restaurant image 1
OBAO Midtown Thai & Vietnamese restaurant image 2
OBAO Midtown Thai & Vietnamese restaurant image 3
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Spacious Thai restaurant with outdoor seating and a full bar featuring large drinks and a variety of cocktails. The atmosphere combines pretty decor and great music, creating a lively and enjoyable vibe. Indoor seating is tight, but the back area offers more space and a cozy garden spot.

Bold, vibrant flavors define the Thai and Vietnamese dishes here. Food pairs well with attentive service and a well-rounded drink selection.

Spiced calamari stands out with its crispy texture and bold seasoning. Sambal calamari offers a spicy kick, making both appetizers highly memorable.

People are saying

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

"The drunken noodles here are amazing and packed with flavor."

"You have to try the calamari; it's flavorful and unique."

Good to know

1

Happy Hour features $3 Sapporo beers from 11 AM to 6 PM.

2

The restaurant offers a lunch special with a free appetizer on weekdays from 11:30 AM to 4 PM.

3

There is a $20 all-you-can-drink beer special available.

02
Il Tinello image 1
Italian restaurant

Small, tucked-away Italian restaurant blends old-world charm with urban sophistication in a cozy, peaceful setting. White tablecloths and candlelight create a glamorous yet comforting atmosphere that feels like a reunion. Guests enjoy attentive service, a cozy bar area, and views of a tree-lined street.

Exceptional service pairs with amazing Italian cuisine here. The food quality stands out as truly impressive.

Calamari stands out as a must-have with a spectacular taste and consistently high quality. It ranks among the best ever, often recommended for its exceptional flavor.

People are saying

"The Italian food here, especially the pasta, is flavorful and comforting."

"The food here is delicious and flavorful."

"I found the calamari to be very tasty."

Good to know

1

Making a reservation is recommended, especially for special evenings.

2

The menu features a variety of classic and innovative Italian dishes.

3

Dessert is highly recommended and considered a must-try.

03
Empire Steak House image 1

Steak house occupies a grand space with historic elements and a gorgeous wine cellar for private events. Warm, elegant ambiance blends with live jazz music and a legit cocktail bar, creating a memorable dining atmosphere. The crowd enjoys top-tier aged beef and creative drinks in a setting that balances coziness with sophistication.

Food here delivers a five-star dining experience with excellent service and an amazing atmosphere. Every dish feels carefully prepared, making the overall meal feel perfect and memorable.

Fried calamari arrives cooked to perfection with a crispy texture and rich flavor. It pairs well with other dishes like mac and cheese and creamed spinach, making it a satisfying snack or meal ender.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be amazing."

"This steak melted in my mouth, perfectly cooked and seasoned."

"The calamari here is perfectly cooked and seasoned just cooked and seasoned."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers half-price appetizers and runs from 4-7pm on weekdays.

2

Jazz nights occur every Friday and Saturday, starting at 9pm.

3

Reservations are recommended for large events, especially for parties over 60 guests.

04
Club A Steakhouse image 1

Two-level classic steakhouse offers spacious seating with live jazz music and private wine cellar dining. Ambiance is quiet and elegant, featuring classical tunes and picturesque city views. Staff provide thoughtful touches like complimentary photos and personalized service.

Delicious food stands out with magnificent flavors and a perfect rating. Staff provide excellent service that makes guests feel appreciated.

Generous portions of calamari arrive quickly, fried to perfection with a crispy texture. The dish pairs well with other items like Caesar salad and sourdough bread.

People are saying

"Bruno, the owner, personally came to our table."

"I found the food here to be amazing."

"The calamari was fried to perfection and delicious."

Good to know

1

Live jazz performances occur from 6-10 PM on Fridays and Saturdays.

2

During Restaurant Week, a special three-course meal is available.

3

Reservations are recommended for special occasions like birthdays and anniversaries.

05
The Naked Pig image 1

Bar space combines multiple TVs with loud, energetic music and a stellar DJ to create a lively atmosphere. Crowd enjoys casual vibe with plenty of room to sit, stand, or dance. Decor shows unique charm and recent renovation, balancing fun energy with clean, inviting surroundings.

Food here is super delicious with amazing service that complements every dish.

Crispy texture stands out in the calamari, making it a delicious choice. It sometimes comes under seasoned but remains tasty and highly recommended by the server.

People are saying

"The American food here, especially the nachos, is amazing."

"The food here is really great, especially for happy hour."

"The calamari here is crispy and tasty."

Good to know

1

Happy hour deals are available every day from 4-7pm and 10pm-close.

2

Weekend reservations are a must for boozy brunch.

3

Expect a 90-minute limit on unlimited brunch drinks.

06
Benny John's Bar and Grill image 1

Live guitar and jazz music create a relaxed, European cafe vibe with comfortable seating both indoors and on a pleasant outdoor patio. The atmosphere suits both solo diners and groups, offering an upscale yet cozy setting with excellent energy throughout.

Food here is consistently very good with a focus on delicious dishes. Cocktails complement the meals well, making for a great dining experience.

Fried calamari comes perfectly breaded and cooked, not rubbery or chewy. It pairs well with other dishes like salmon and lobster soup.

People are saying

"I've never had a steak cooked so perfectly to my preference."

"I thought the food was delicious and amazing."

"The calamari here is perfectly breaded and cooked, never rubbery."

Good to know

1

The restaurant has an all-day happy hour with a variety of appetizers.

2

Happy hour drink specials are available all night at the bar.

3

Reservations are recommended due to high demand during peak times.

07
Osteria Laguna image 1
Italian restaurant

Spacious Italian restaurant with an L-shaped layout and outdoor seating options. Atmosphere ranges from cozy and romantic in enclosed areas to lively with loud live music on the patio. Offers a classy and chic setting with ample space and window seats available.

Authentic Italian dishes like salmon tartar, ravioli, and branzino stand out with fantastic flavors. Service stays attentive even for solo diners, making the food experience consistently phenomenal.

Grilled and fried options offer exceptional texture and flavor. The calamari salad stands out with perfect seasoning, making it a solid choice among appetizers.

People are saying

"The housemade pasta dishes here are so fresh and well prepared."

"The food here is outstanding and authentic Italian."

"The calamari here is amazing and perfectly crispy."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required to dine at this restaurant.

2

A meal consisting of 2 soups, 2 pastas, 1 glass of wine, and 1 beer costs U$ 120 with tip.

3

A half a glass of wine was $15.

08
Crave Fishbar image 1
Seafood restaurant

Upstairs seating offers a cozy, maritime-themed space separated from the lively double bar area. The atmosphere blends sophistication with relaxation, supported by creative cocktails and fresh seafood. Noise levels can be high, especially near busy tables, but the overall vibe remains welcoming.

Food features a super fresh raw bar and tasty bites with a focus on seafood like Barramundi. Service stays top notch from start to finish, complementing the delicious dishes.

Calamari dishes come out consistently incredible and great. They pair well with other starters like oysters and fluke crudo, making them a solid choice for seafood starters.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the oyster happy hour here."

"The calamari here is amazing and stole the show."

"The food here is super fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as the restaurant can get very busy during happy hour and dinner.

2

Oyster happy hour is every day from 4-6pm.

3

The happy hour is $35 for a bottle of prosecco and $2 per oyster.

09
Bobby Van's image 1
Steak house

Upscale steakhouse offers an atmosphere of classic elegance and modern sophistication with comfortable seating and soft background music. It attracts diners seeking a refined and inviting setting that can become lively during peak hours. The environment balances old-fashioned charm with a welcoming, luxurious vibe.

Food here is consistently excellent with high-quality ingredients and top-notch presentation. Staff carefully time courses to match your pace without rushing or interrupting.

Fried calamari stands out with the Point Judith Calamari as a recommended appetizer. Sweet chili and sweet pepper sauces add excellent flavor to the dishes.

People are saying

"I had one of the best dry age steaks at this steakhouse."

"The food here is amazing and delicious."

"The sweet chili calamari was excellent."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for weekend dinner service.

2

Expect high prices, with a typical meal for four costing around $450.

3

The restaurant is not easily accessible for those avoiding steps.

10
Il Monello image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant offers an elegant and cozy atmosphere with sparkly white tablecloths and lovely lighting. The space includes a small bar separated by a wall, creating distinct dining and drinking areas. Music features classic American songs from the 50s, adding to the warm, inviting vibe.

Food comes out fresh, expertly seasoned, and cooked to perfection. Every dish tastes delicious and maintains a consistently excellent quality.

Fried calamari arrives crispy with two delicious sauces. Baked calamari serves as a flavorful appetizer alongside other seafood dishes.

People are saying

"The Italian food here, especially the pasta, is the best I've ever tasted."

"The food here is authentic and delicious Italian cuisine."

"The fried calamari here is excellent with two delicious sauces."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends to avoid long wait times.

2

Expect to pay around $49 for meatballs and spaghetti.

3

Dress code is smart casual; evening dress is preferred for a nicer experience.

11
Maggie's Place image 1
American restaurant

Chic, old-fashioned Irish pub with wooden detailing and a long narrow bar creates an inviting space. Lively music plays throughout, adding to a convivial atmosphere that balances coziness with energy. The place welcomes guests warmly, making it suitable for both casual dining and events.

Fish and chips come with dill tartar sauce and serve as solid comfort food. The menu offers semi-upscale Irish pub dishes with good drinks and consistent quality.

Nicely lightly battered and crisp, the calamari pairs well with fresh salads. It comes alongside other dishes like sticky wings and ragu, making for a varied meal.

People are saying

"The food recommendations were spot-on and the service was delightful."

"This bar has a classic New York vibe and outstanding atmosphere."

"The calamari here is nicely lightly battered."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for large parties to ensure seating.

2

The kitchen closes at 9:20 PM, so plan your dinner accordingly.

3

Expect NYC prices for cocktails; drinks can be expensive.

12
Bucatini image 1
Italian restaurant

Elegant interior blends spaciousness with intimacy, creating a cozy atmosphere reminiscent of Tuscany. Energy suits unhurried evenings and date nights, with superb cocktails complementing the setting.

Food here stands out for its very high quality and amazing flavors. The place offers a good atmosphere with a dining room and restroom.

Calamari stands out as exquisite and part of a phenomenal food lineup including tuna tartare and arancinis.

People are saying

"The Italian food here, especially the bucatini, is the best I've ever eaten."

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

"I started with the calamari, and it was delicious."

Good to know

1

The menu accommodates dairy allergies with several options available.

2

Reservations are recommended for special occasions like anniversaries and birthdays.

3

Bucatini is suitable for private events and gatherings.

13
Sea Fire Grill image 1
Seafood restaurant

Modern space combines white tablecloths and white glove service with a refined yet inviting ambiance. Atmosphere ranges from peaceful and cozy near the fireplace to louder areas with higher ceilings. Guests enjoy top-notch cocktails and exceptional seafood and steak in a beautifully decorated setting.

Food here is consistently delicious with a superb quality that stands out. Service matches the food with great attentiveness and care.

Grilled calamari comes as a standout appetizer paired with a Mesclun Salad. It features a smoky flavor that complements other dishes like oysters and steak.

People are saying

"The service at these dinner spots is amazing and attentive."

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

"I loved the grilled calamari appetizer."

Good to know

1

Reservations are strongly recommended due to the restaurant's popularity.

2

The restaurant offers a special restaurant week menu for $45 per person.

3

Happy hour includes oysters and champagne at a discounted price.

14
The Capital Grille image 1
Fine dining restaurant

Elegant interior with dark wood paneling and tall glass windows sets a classy and classic tone. Atmosphere ranges from warm and welcoming in main areas to noisy near the bar during busy times. Offers private dining rooms and both indoor and outdoor seating options.

Food here is consistently excellent and fabulous with a strong respect for quality. Staff are attentive and knowledgeable, enhancing the dining experience.

Crispy calamari comes without marinara sauce and is served with peppers only. It pairs well with other appetizers like shrimp and lobster, offering a simple yet flavorful start.

People are saying

"I found the steak cooked to perfection and bursting with flavor."

"The food here is amazing, with attentive servers making great recommendations."

"I found the calamari served with peppers only to be very good."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to avoid long wait times, especially on weekends.

2

The Generous Pour event offers unlimited wine for a fixed price during dinner.

3

The restaurant does not accept Apple Pay or contactless payments.

15
The Smith image 1
American restaurant

American restaurant offers a crowded and lively atmosphere with comfortable booths and benches amid close table arrangements. Outdoor seating expands options, while live bands contribute to the energetic vibe. Noise levels can be high, creating a bustling environment.

Food features delicious dishes with consistent quality and great service throughout the dining experience.

Super fresh calamari rings come lightly battered and crisp. They serve as a delicious appetizer that stands out among other dishes.

People are saying

"The food here is seasoned and cooked perfectly."

"The brunch food here is so flavorful and delicious."

"The calamari here might be the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends to avoid long waits.

2

The restaurant offers half-price happy hour items from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m.

3

Brunch is served at 11 a.m. on Saturdays with bottomless options available.

16
Hutong New York image 1
Chinese restaurant

Sleek interiors blend Art Deco style with Shanghai and New York influences, creating a stylish, futuristic vibe. Live jazz and a chilled bar atmosphere add to the sophisticated energy. Signature cocktails and a flaming Peking duck presentation highlight the experience.

Food here offers an elevated dining experience with exquisite cuisine served in an elegant ambiance. The dishes are consistently phenomenal and complement attentive service.

Calamari appears as calamari flowers with a chili sauce similar to lao gan ma. This dish stands out alongside other seafood options like golden prawns.

People are saying

"The Peking duck here is the best in the city."

"The food here is outstanding, especially the duck."

"The calamari flowers had a spicy kick I enjoyed."

Good to know

1

Reservations are a must, with a cancellation fee for late cancellations.

2

The Emperor Dinner Menu is available for a set price of $65.

3

Happy hour offers BOGO martinis, but the second one is charged initially.

17
Ben & Jack's Steakhouse image 1

Fine dining steakhouse with a warm, inviting ambiance and private tables offers a sophisticated yet comfortable setting. Music and interior blend country sports pub style with upscale touches. Guests enjoy excellent service and a romantic atmosphere.

Food here is consistently delicious and excellent. Every dish shows care and quality, making meals enjoyable every time.

Crispy and flavorful textures define the calamari here. It stays tender while delivering a satisfying crunch.

People are saying

"I thought this steak was fantastic, better than Luger's."

"The food here is delicious and cooked perfectly."

"The fried calamari was crispy and flavorful."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a $39.95 lunch special.

2

The restaurant offers a prefix menu during NYC Restaurant Week that includes an appetizer, entree, dessert, and a bottle of wine.

3

On a Sunday you can park along 3rd Ave.

18
Avra 48th Street image 1
Greek restaurant

Greek restaurant offers a spacious interior with a large outdoor dining area extending down the street. Atmosphere shifts from bright and euro modern to romantic and charming depending on the time. The space fills with a lively crowd, especially around the bar, creating an energetic vibe.

Food features Greek salad, spanakopita, and branzino prepared with incredible skill and flavor. Dining offers exceptional quality whether eating in or ordering out.

Grilled and fried calamari come out tender and light with great flavor. Both versions taste consistently delicious and well-prepared.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and worth every penny."

"The service here is great and the waitstaff are attentive."

"The calamari here tasted great, whether fried or grilled."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended as the restaurant gets busy quickly.

2

The restaurant charges $800 for a table of four.

3

Expect large portions, so come hungry.

19
Smith & Wollensky image 1

Quintessential high-end steakhouse with a loud, boisterous atmosphere and an exclusive club vibe. Spacious layout contrasts with some cramped booths and high air conditioning. An adjoining room offers an intimate bar with skilled mixologists.

Food here delivers unbelievably good flavors with top-notch service enhancing the dining experience. The meals consistently impress with their quality and taste.

Lightly battered fried calamari stands out with its exceptional texture and flavor. A special side of homemade French dressing is available for dipping, enhancing the dish's appeal.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the excellent steaks here."

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

"The calamari here had a great punch of flavor."

Good to know

1

The "Weekend Wine Dinner" is offered Thursday through Saturday after 8:00 PM for $95 per person.

2

The weekend wine dinner includes 3 courses and unlimited wine for $95.

3

The Prix Fixe promotion is only available on Fridays and Saturdays after 8:30 PM.

20
P.J. Clarke's Third Avenue image 1
American restaurant

Historic pub with 19th-century interiors and a 150-year-old bar creates an authentic old New York vibe. Atmosphere shifts from quiet dining to lively, crowded bar with classic jukebox tunes and live music. Walls display photos of legendary bartenders, adding to the timeless local charm.

Food here is consistently excellent with outstanding flavors and quality. Service matches the food with top bartenders and attentive staff.

Calamari varies here, with some versions described as excellent and delicious alongside scallops. The Rhode Island style tends to be oily with heavy breading and less calamari flavor.

People are saying

"I thought the burgers here were fantastic and great."

"I thought the food was always good and delicious."

"The calamari here is excellent and delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are advisable, especially for dinner service.

2

Expect a 20-40 minute wait during peak hours.

3

The bar area operates on a first-come, first-served basis.

21
Grand Central Oyster Bar image 1
Oyster bar restaurant

Huge space with classic architecture and old school NYC charm creates a unique atmosphere that feels like stepping back decades. Oyster shuckers perform visibly at the bar, adding to the lively, traditional vibe. Seating options include a hidden saloon and multiple bars, catering to varied preferences.

Food comes out perfectly prepared and delicious every time. Service matches the quality, making dining a lovely experience.

Calamari comes out fresh and tender with a nice red dipping sauce. The fried Italian style feels old-fashioned and satisfying.

People are saying

"The oysters here are so fresh, with many varieties to choose from."

"I enjoyed the fresh and delicious food."

"The calamari here is fresh, tender, and delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour happens on Thursdays from 4-6 PM in the Saloon and Lounge.

2

The happy hour includes two options of $1 clams.

3

The kitchen closes at 9 PM, and itโ€™s impossible to order after that.

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Midtown East, New York

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