Finding the perfect calamari can be a quest, especially in a city as diverse as Phoenix. This comprehensive guide dives deep into the top 20 spots serving up this crispy, delicious seafood delight, exploring everything from classic preparations to innovative twists. We'll examine menus, ambiance, and customer reviews to help you choose the perfect place for your next calamari craving.
Phoenix's Finest: Calamari Restaurants Ranked
This list is not exhaustive, and the "best" calamari is subjective, depending on personal preference. However, based on online reviews, popularity, and reputation, here's our curated list of top contenders for the best calamari in Phoenix:
(Note: Rankings are not definitive and based on a combination of factors, not just calamari quality. Restaurant availability and menus can change. Always confirm details before visiting.)
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The Mission: Known for its upscale Latin American cuisine, The Mission often receives rave reviews for its perfectly fried calamari. Expect a lively atmosphere and a sophisticated take on this classic dish.
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Pizzeria Bianco: While famous for its pizza, Pizzeria Bianco also offers a surprisingly excellent calamari appetizer. The focus is on fresh, high-quality ingredients, prepared simply but effectively.
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Chelsea's Kitchen: This popular spot boasts a vibrant atmosphere and a menu that changes seasonally. When calamari is on the menu, it's often a highlight, with creative preparations and flavorful sauces.
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Different Pointe of View: With stunning city views, Different Pointe of View delivers a luxurious dining experience. Their calamari appetizer is a sophisticated take on the classic, often featuring unique preparations and pairings.
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FnB: This award-winning restaurant focuses on farm-to-table cuisine. Their calamari dishes are usually seasonal and reflect the freshness of local ingredients. Expect inventive sauces and preparations.
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Matt's Big Breakfast: This popular breakfast joint isn't just for morning meals; their calamari is a surprisingly delicious and popular option for a different kind of day or night.
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The Gladly: This gastropub offers a varied menu with creative interpretations of classic dishes. Their calamari is known for being well-seasoned and crispy.
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Bitter & Twisted Cocktail Parlour: This upscale cocktail bar offers a smaller menu, but when they serve calamari, it’s often a standout, featuring unique sauces and flavor profiles.
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Durant's: A Phoenix institution, Durant's provides a sophisticated dining experience. Their calamari preparation is a classic approach, emphasizing quality ingredients and crisp frying.
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Postino: This wine bar offers a relaxed atmosphere and a varied menu. Their calamari is a casual, crowd-pleasing option, often well-received for its balance of crispiness and tenderness.
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OHSO Brewery: This brewery offers several locations and a diverse menu. Their calamari is usually a straightforward, well-executed version, perfect for pairing with their craft beers.
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Valley Bar: This popular music venue also offers a surprising calamari selection, often with unique preparations and sauces.
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Cobra Arcade Bar: A unique spot offering both classic arcade games and tasty food, Cobra Arcade Bar is often praised for its affordable and well-executed calamari.
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Luci's at the Don: This casual eatery offers classic Italian-American fare and their calamari is usually a comforting, generously portioned dish.
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Rula Bula: This popular Irish pub provides a lively atmosphere and a menu of comfort food. Their calamari offering is generally a solid, unpretentious choice.
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House of Tricks: This unique establishment blends food, drinks, and entertainment, with their calamari being a decent option amidst a varied menu.
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The Dressing Room: This restaurant often features rotating seasonal menus and their calamari dishes, when available, show an innovative approach to the dish.
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Barrio Cafe: Known for its Mexican cuisine, Barrio Cafe might surprise you with their calamari, which often features a Southwestern-inspired twist.
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Pomo: Known for its wood-fired pizza, Pomo sometimes offers unique calamari preparations featuring seasonal ingredients.
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North Italia: This upscale Italian restaurant usually features high-quality calamari in a classic Italian style.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Your Calamari
- Preparation: Do you prefer lightly battered and fried, heavily breaded, grilled, or something more adventurous?
- Sauce: Many restaurants offer a variety of sauces, including marinara, spicy aioli, or even more creative options.
- Portion Size: Are you looking for a small appetizer or a larger main course?
- Ambiance: Do you want a casual pub setting or a more upscale dining experience?
- Price Point: Calamari prices vary significantly depending on the restaurant.
This guide offers a starting point for your calamari adventure in Phoenix. Remember to check restaurant websites and reviews before your visit to ensure the calamari is still on the menu and to confirm the restaurant's current offerings and ambiance. Happy eating!
