Best of 12 calamari in Mission District
In San Francisco's vibrant Mission District, calamari is a must-try dish. This neighborhood, known for its rich cultural heritage and lively atmosphere, offers an exquisite selection of calamari. From traditional fried calamari to unique and innovative presentations, the Mission District is a haven for calamari lovers. Don't miss out on the opportunity to savor this delicious dish in one of the many eclectic eateries in the area.
1. Mission Street Oyster Bar
Sustainable seafood, raw bar, craft cocktails.

The calamari stood out as a delicious component of our meal. Its freshness was evident in every bite, and its tenderness was enhanced by a perfect crispy exterior. The crunch of the calamari created a delightful contrast in texture.
The calamari was truly a culinary delight, featuring a crispy texture that was absolutely irresistible. The accompanying dipping sauce was the perfect complement, adding an extra layer of flavor to each bite. The combination of the crispy calamari and the delicious dipping sauce created a truly unforgettable taste sensation.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Waterfront
- Dinner
2. Destapas SF
Cozy atmosphere, wide selection of Spanish wines, fresh seafood

The food served at this establishment is absolutely delicious, with spot-on flavors that are sure to impress. The menu is extensive, offering many great dishes to choose from. One standout item is the calamari, which was cooked to perfection and had a wonderful flavor that made it the best I have ever had.
The restaurant has a nice atmosphere, with clean facilities and attentive staff. The calamari was the star of the show, but other dishes were also very good. If you are a fan of calamari, this is a must-visit destination just for that dish alone. The quality and flavor of the calamari are unmatched, making for an unforgettable dining experience.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Mexican Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
3. Beretta Valencia
Authentic Italian cuisine in the heart of San Francisco

The calamari at Beretta Valencia is a must-try dish. Its crispy texture and delicious flavor make it a standout choice for anyone who enjoys seafood. The squid ink risotto with calamari is another exceptional option, featuring a unique and flavorful twist on a classic dish.
Overall, the seafood at Beretta Valencia is a highlight of their menu. The calamari and squid ink risotto are both standout choices that are sure to impress. If you're a fan of seafood, Beretta Valencia is definitely worth a visit.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
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4. Rintaro
Authentic Japanese cuisine in a modern, inviting atmosphere

Rintaro's calamari stands out for its exceptional quality. The texture is cooked to perfection, resulting in a desirable consistency that is sure to impress. The flavors are equally impressive, with a well-balanced taste that makes each bite a pleasure. It is highly recommended to try this dish.
The calamari served at this establishment is fresh and tender, lacking the rubbery texture that is often associated with disappointing calamari dishes. The accompanying dipping sauce is a perfect complement to the calamari, enhancing its flavors without overpowering them. This dish is a must-try for any seafood lover.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
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5. Flour + Water
Daily changing menu, house-made pastas, and a full bar focusing on Italian wines and cocktails

The calamari at both locations was excellently prepared, with a perfectly cooked and well-seasoned texture that was a standout feature of the meal. A highlight of the dining experience, the calamari was crispy and full of flavor, making it a recommended dish for anyone looking for a delicious option.
Whether at Flour + Water or another establishment, the calamari was a clear star of the meal. Its crispy exterior and delightful taste made it a must-try for anyone visiting, and its placement as a highlight of the dining experience speaks to its quality and deliciousness.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
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6. Penny Roma
Homemade pasta, friendly staff, cozy atmosphere

The calamari dish was a great start to the meal, with everyone at the table agreeing on its freshness and tenderness. It was cooked to perfection, with a seasoning that complemented the natural flavor of the calamari. This appetizer was a definite highlight of the meal and is highly recommended for those who enjoy this type of dish.
Overall, the calamari stood out as a must-try item. Its perfect cooking and seasoning made it a crowd-pleaser, and it was a great way to start the meal. The calamari's freshness and tenderness were notable, and it was a dish that left a lasting impression on all who tried it.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
7. Basa Seafood Express in Mission District
Sustainable seafood options, family-owned business, cozy atmosphere

Basa Seafood Express offers delicious calamari that is highly regarded in the city. The calamari stands out for its freshness and crispy texture, making it a recommended dish for seafood lovers.
For those who enjoy calamari, Basa Seafood Express is a great choice. Their calamari is known for being fresh and crispy, prompting satisfied customers to return for more.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Hidden Gems
8. La Traviata
Authentic Italian cuisine, cozy ambiance, and friendly service

La Traviata is a top-notch Italian restaurant in San Francisco that offers an authentic old-school Italian atmosphere with an opera mood. The menu features a variety of delicious dishes, but there are a few standouts that are not to be missed. Start with the antipasto, which offers a selection of cured meats, cheeses, and marinated vegetables. The calamari is another must-try, perfectly cooked and seasoned to perfection.
For your main course, the gnocchi with aurora sauce is a delicious choice. This dish features pillowy soft gnocchi smothered in a rich and creamy tomato sauce. And save room for dessert, as La Traviata offers a variety of mouth-watering options. The Panna cotta, Profiteroles, and Tiramisu are all excellent choices, and will leave you feeling satisfied and delighted. Overall, La Traviata is a must-visit spot for any Italian food lover in San Francisco.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Downtown Spots
- Celebrations
9. Bottega
Celebrity chef Michael Chiarello's farm-to-table Italian cuisine

The calamari stood out as the only enjoyable dish during the visit to the restaurant in SF, thanks to the delicious aioli dipping sauce. However, the pizza, which is typically a favorite, was disappointingly soggy.
Despite the tasty calamari, the overall experience at the restaurant was negative. The pizza and calamari both suffered from being overly soggy, leading to a disappointing meal. San Francisco has many great dining options, but this particular restaurant did not meet expectations.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Dinner
10. Barberio Osteria in Mission District
Using fresh and high-quality ingredients, the restaurant has a cozy and inviting atmosphere.

The calamari at Barberio Osteria is a standout dish that should not be missed. Its crispy exterior and tender interior make it a delight to eat. The calamari is cooked to perfection, with a seasoning that enhances its natural flavors.
Barberio Osteria's calamari is a must-try for anyone who loves seafood. The expert preparation results in a dish that is both crispy and tender, with a seasoning that adds depth and flavor. This dish is a perfect example of the restaurant's commitment to quality and taste.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Budget-Friendly Eats
11. La Playa Seafood

TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
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12. Valencia Pizza & Pasta
Friendly staff, cozy ambiance, and handmade pasta.

The calamari dish showcased excellent cooking techniques, resulting in perfectly prepared and seasoned squid. This appetizer is a standout choice that any seafood enthusiast should not miss. Its crispy texture and lack of excessive oil make it a delightful start to any meal.
The calamari dish at this establishment is highly recommended, boasting a crispy exterior with minimal greasiness. As an ideal beginning to any dining experience, the squid offers a perfect balance of taste and texture, demonstrating the chef's culinary skills.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
- Hidden Gems