San Diego is a haven for seafood lovers, with countless restaurants serving up fresh and delicious dishes from the ocean. One of the most popular appetizers on many menus is fried calamari.
This classic dish features tender rings of squid, coated in a crispy batter and fried until golden brown. With so many options to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide where to get your fix of this delectable dish.
If you're looking for the best fried calamari in San Diego, you're in luck. From casual eateries to high-end restaurants, there's no shortage of places to indulge in this seafood delicacy.
Whether you prefer your calamari lightly seasoned or packed with bold flavors, there's something for everyone in this vibrant coastal city.
Many restaurants in San Diego pride themselves on using locally sourced, sustainable seafood, ensuring that your fried calamari is not only delicious but also environmentally friendly.
With a focus on fresh ingredients and expert preparation, you can be sure that your calamari will be cooked to perfection every time. So why not take a culinary journey through San Diego and discover the best places to enjoy this mouth-watering dish?
1. Blue Water Seafood Market & Grill
Blue Water Seafood Market & Grill is a must-visit for anyone looking for delicious fried calamari.
Along with the calamari, they offer a variety of fresh seafood dishes that are sure to satisfy your cravings.
The friendly staff and casual atmosphere make it a great spot to grab a bite to eat.
Don't miss out on this gem of a seafood market and grill.
2. Mitch's Seafood
Mitch's Seafood is a seafood shack that is worth visiting for their fried calamari.
The seafood is sustainably sourced and locally caught. The restaurant features a great ambiance with bay views.
The staff are friendly and provide quick service. The prices are competitive and the portions are generous.
The mixed seafood platter is also a great option to try. Keep in mind that the place tends to fill up quickly during sport events.
3. Point Loma Seafoods
Point Loma Seafoods is a seafood market and restaurant that offers a variety of fresh seafood dishes.
Their fried calamari is a must-try for anyone who loves seafood. The calamari is cooked to perfection, crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
The portion size is generous and the price is reasonable. The restaurant has both indoor and outdoor seating with a great view of the marina.
The service is friendly and efficient. If you're looking for a delicious seafood meal, Point Loma Seafoods is definitely worth a visit.
4. Eddie V's
Eddie V's is an elegant fine-dining restaurant that offers a seafood and steak menu. The restaurant has a cocktail lounge that features live jazz music, making it a perfect place for a night out.
Although the menu offers a range of delicious dishes, their fried calamari is a must-try.
The calamari is perfectly cooked and served with a tasty sauce that complements the dish.
The atmosphere is classy and the service is outstanding. Eddie V's is definitely a great choice for those looking for an upscale dining experience.
5. Piacere Mio
Piacere Mio is a rustic-chic Italian restaurant that offers amazing fried calamari.
The restaurant serves traditional Italian fare, including their homemade pasta and unique specials. The portions are moderate and the ingredients are fresh.
The service is fast, friendly, and efficient, with a knowledgeable staff that makes the experience feel authentic.
The atmosphere is intimate and romantic, with exposed wood beams and bricks. Piacere Mio is definitely worth a visit for anyone looking for delicious Italian cuisine.
6. Queenstown Public House
Queenstown Public House is a whimsical New Zealand-themed pub that also serves delicious fried calamari. The calamari is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, making it a perfect appetizer to share with friends.
The restaurant has a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere, making it a great place to grab a bite to eat with friends or family.
The menu also offers a variety of other upscale bar fare, as well as a large selection of draft beers and cocktails.
If you're looking for a unique dining experience with great food, Queenstown Public House is definitely worth a visit.
7. Azuki Sushi Lounge
Azuki Sushi Lounge is a modern Japanese restaurant that offers creative sushi rolls and carefully sourced Japanese fare. Their fried calamari is a must-try dish that's crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
The restaurant has a hip and trendy vibe, with a rooftop structure that provides a unique dining experience. The service is prompt, and the delivery of entrees is timely.
The menu offers a variety of gluten-free options, including the Vertigo roll, which features crisp green apple, thin cucumber, and a light ponzu sauce.
The overall quality of the food is excellent, and the prices are reasonable for the quality. If you're looking for a great place to enjoy some delicious fried calamari, Azuki Sushi Lounge is definitely worth checking out.
8. Baci Restaurant
Baci Restaurant offers refined Italian cuisine with an old-world vibe. Their fried calamari is a standout dish, perfectly cooked and bursting with flavor.
The attentive and friendly staff create a warm ambiance, making for a great dining experience.
Their extensive wine list and upscale Italian dishes make for a varied menu. Although parking can be difficult, they offer valet service.
Baci Restaurant is a hidden gem worth discovering for their exceptional fried calamari and overall dining experience.
9. The Red Door
The Red Door is a refined yet homey eatery that serves upscale American comfort fare made with garden-fresh produce.
Their fried calamari is a must-try dish that is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
The calamari is served with a tangy dipping sauce that perfectly complements the dish.
The Red Door's cozy atmosphere and attentive service make it a great place to enjoy a delicious meal with friends or family.
10. Bay Park Fish Company
Bay Park Fish Company is a seafood restaurant that serves excellent fried calamari. The calamari is crispy and flavorful, and the portion size is generous.
The restaurant also offers a variety of other seafood dishes, including fresh oysters and fish tacos.
The service is friendly and attentive, and the atmosphere is casual and relaxed. The prices are reasonable for the quality of the food.
If you're in the mood for some delicious fried calamari, Bay Park Fish Company is definitely worth a visit.
11. California Fish Grill
California Fish Grill is a great place to satisfy your craving for fried calamari.
This seafood restaurant offers a variety of fresh and well-cooked seafood dishes at an affordable price.
You can enjoy their fantastic grilled fish and chips, salmon with Cajun seasoning, or their delicious cilantro lime salmon grain bowl.
The staff members are professional and friendly, and the service is pretty fast. If you're in the mood for seafood, California Fish Grill is definitely worth a try.
12. Sardina's Italian Restaurant and Bar
Sardina's Italian Restaurant and Bar is a must-visit spot for anyone looking for delicious fried calamari. Not only is the calamari perfectly cooked, but the staff is also super attentive and friendly.
The restaurant offers a great selection of Italian dishes, including lobster ravioli and linguine with clam sauce.
Prices are reasonable, and the portions are generous. The only downside is the limited parking, but it's well worth the effort to find a spot.
With its cozy atmosphere and excellent food, Sardina's is a hidden gem that's definitely worth checking out.
13. Monzu Fresh Pasta
Monzu Fresh Pasta is a cozy Italian restaurant that serves delicious fried calamari. The calamari is perfectly crispy and tender, and comes with a side of tangy marinara sauce.
The restaurant also offers a variety of fresh pasta dishes, made with seasonal and organic ingredients.
The atmosphere is airy and light-filled, making it a great spot for a casual dinner or lunch. Don't forget to make a reservation, as the restaurant can get busy during peak hours.
If you're looking for a place for some tasty fried calamari, Monzu Fresh Pasta is definitely worth a visit.
14. Top of the Market
Top of the Market is a high-end seafood restaurant known for its elegant atmosphere and beautiful bay views.
The menu offers a variety of seafood dishes, including fried calamari, which is a must-try. The calamari is expertly prepared and cooked to perfection, with a crispy exterior and tender interior.
The service is attentive and professional, and the ambiance is perfect for a special occasion or a romantic dinner.
Prices are on the higher side, but the quality of the food and the overall experience make it worth it. If you're looking for a place to enjoy some delicious fried calamari, Top of the Market is definitely worth a visit.
15. JRDN Restaurant
JRDN Restaurant offers a refined take on surf 'n' turf with an acclaimed view. The fried calamari is a standout appetizer, crispy and perfectly seasoned.
The service is attentive and friendly, making for an enjoyable dining experience.
The menu is a bit limited, but the dishes are all solid choices. The location on the beachfront is perfect for a sunset dinner or drinks with friends.
JRDN Restaurant is a great choice for anyone looking for upscale American dining with a view.
16. Bali Hai Restaurant
Bali Hai Restaurant is a must-visit for those seeking delicious fried calamari. The restaurant offers a Polynesian-themed atmosphere with enchanting bay views.
The service is exceptional, and the staff is attentive to guests' needs. The calamari appetizer is fresh and perfectly seasoned, making it a standout dish.
The menu offers a varied selection of seafood dishes, and the mai tai cocktails are a must-try. The restaurant has an intimate ambiance, making it an ideal location for a romantic date or a night out with friends.
Bali Hai Restaurant is a great place to indulge in delicious food while enjoying the beautiful views of the bay.
