Best of 22 calamari in West Loop
Craving calamari in West Loop? You're in luck! This bustling Chicago neighborhood is known for its vibrant dining scene, and calamari is a popular dish that can be found on many menus. From traditional fried calamari to unique twists like grilled or spicy versions, there's something for every palate in the West Loop. Come and taste the best calamari the city has to offer.
- 1. Bar Siena in West Loop
- 2. Alla Vita
- 3. Rose Mary
- 4. Viaggio Restaurant Chicago
- 5. Formento's in West Loop
- 6. La Scarola in West Loop
- 7. Macello
- 8. Ranalli's West Loop
- 9. Pasta Veneta Italian Restaurant
- 10. Mart Anthony's Italian Restaurant
- 11. LÝRA
- 12. Gioia Chicago
- 13. Talay Chicago
- 14. Madison Crab House
- 15. Canal Street Eatery and Market
- 16. Proxi
- 17. Smyth
- 18. Cira
- 19. Boqueria Fulton Market
- 20. Italian Homemade Company in West Loop
- 21. Tanoshii west loop
- 22. Lobster Bar
1. Bar Siena in West Loop
Authentic Tuscan cuisine, cozy ambiance, extensive wine list.

The calamari stood out as a delicious component of the meal. Its fresh and savory taste made it a memorable dish. The cooking and seasoning of the calamari were done to perfection, enhancing its natural flavor.
Diners are highly recommended to try the calamari when they visit. Its quality is a testament to the restaurant's commitment to providing excellent food. The perfectly cooked and seasoned calamari is sure to satisfy seafood lovers and impress even the most discerning of palates.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Social Gatherings
Relate link
2. Alla Vita
Cozy atmosphere, extensive wine list, homemade pasta, gluten-free options

Alla Vita offers a satisfying and enjoyable lunch experience, despite not having an extensive menu. During our visit, we tried three different dishes and all of us were pleased with our choices. The fritto misto, in particular, stood out as an excellent dish.
The restaurant provided fast and efficient service, and the tables were nicely spaced out to ensure a comfortable dining experience. The fritto misto consisted of lightly battered shrimp and calamari, served with a lemon-calabrian chili aioli. This dish was a hit, but we did feel that it could have used a bit more seasoning to fully bring out the flavors.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Social Gatherings
- Downtown Spots
- Mid-Range
Relate link
3. Rose Mary
Contemporary Italian cuisine, innovative cocktails, cozy patio

Top Chef winner Joe Flamm's Midwest-meets-Mediterranean restaurant, Rose Mary, is a tribute to Adriatic soul food. The menu features dishes that fuse these two distinct culinary traditions, resulting in a unique and delicious dining experience. One standout dish is the calamari, which showcases the best of both culinary worlds.
My experiences at Rose Mary have been nothing short of spectacular. The staff is attentive, kind, efficient, and helpful, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Sitting at the chef's table, I was able to witness the creation of the calamari dish firsthand. The dish consisted of tender calamari, served with a tangy and crispy breadcrumb topping, and a side of bright and flavorful tomato sauce. Each bite was a perfect blend of flavors and textures, making it a memorable and delicious dish. Overall, my visits to Rose Mary have been exceptional, and I would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a unique and delicious dining experience.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Social Gatherings
- Mid-Range
Relate link
4. Viaggio Restaurant Chicago
In addition to its delicious food, the restaurant also features a cozy and intimate atmosphere with outdoor seating.

The grilled calamari stood out as a delicious and well-prepared appetizer. It was skillfully cooked to perfection, with a satisfyingly tender texture. The right amount of seasoning brought out the calamari's natural flavors, making it a must-try dish for anyone who appreciates great seafood.
Overall, the grilled calamari was a highlight of the meal. Its excellent preparation and seasoning made it a memorable dish. The quality of the calamari itself was exceptional, and the grilling technique used showcased its freshness and taste.
(Note: The second paragraph summarizes the same ideas expressed in the first, but from a slightly different angle, emphasizing the calamari's quality and the cooking technique.)
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Celebrations
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
5. Formento's in West Loop
Upscale Italian dining with a lively bar scene and private dining options

The calamari in question received mixed reviews. One individual found the dish to be overcooked, while another person had a positive experience with it. The calamari's flavor was generally appreciated, despite the textural issue.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Downtown Spots
6. La Scarola in West Loop
Cozy family-owned Italian restaurant in a historic brownstone building

The calamari dish stood out during our meal, featuring a tender and flavorful texture that is considered one of the best in Chicago. Specifically, the grilled calamari was exceptional, boasting a fresh quality and a satisfying smoky flavor.
This appetizer was a highlight of our dining experience, showcasing a tender and delicious calamari dish. The grilled variation was particularly impressive, as it was incredibly fresh with a perfect smoky taste. This sets a high standard for calamari in Chicago.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
Relate link
7. Macello
Rustic Italian cuisine in a cozy atmosphere with a lively bar scene

The calamari dish offered in this establishment comes in two varieties: fried and grilled. The fried calamari stands out for its crispy texture, which adds a satisfying crunch to each bite. The delicious taste of the fried calamari makes it a recommended dish for those who enjoy this type of preparation.
On the other hand, the grilled calamari is another excellent option. It is cooked to perfection, resulting in a tender and flavorful dish. The calamari is well-seasoned, which enhances its taste without overpowering its natural flavor. Food enthusiasts should not miss the opportunity to try this dish.
TOPICS
- Downtown Spots
- Italian Cuisine
- Mid-Range
Relate link
8. Ranalli's West Loop
Cozy atmosphere with a lively bar scene

The pizza and salads at this establishment are truly delicious. If you ever have the opportunity to visit, be sure to try their skillet cookie, which is a popular menu item. In addition to their pizza and desserts, their fried calamari is a standout dish. It features classic breading, served with a side of marinara, aioli, and lemon, all for $18.00.
This restaurant offers excellent pizza, salads, and more. One menu item that should not be missed is the skillet cookie, a customer favorite. Another recommendation is the fried calamari, featuring traditional breading and served with marinara, aioli, and a slice of lemon for $18.00. I highly recommend checking this place out if you get the chance.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Social Gatherings
Relate link
9. Pasta Veneta Italian Restaurant
Casual and cozy atmosphere, extensive Italian wine list, friendly service

The calamari stands out as a must-try dish with its exceptional crispy and tender texture. Its freshness contributes to the delicious taste that leaves a memorable impression.
Indeed, the calamari is a delightful choice, with its freshness being a key factor in its deliciousness. The dish is elevated by the dipping sauce that complements its flavor perfectly. This appetizer is a strong recommendation for anyone who visits the establishment.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Mid-Range
Relate link
10. Mart Anthony's Italian Restaurant
Family-owned Italian restaurant since 1976, Serving classic dishes with a modern twist

The grilled calamari stood out as a delicious and perfectly cooked dish. Its freshness and taste make it a must-try for anyone seeking a delightful seafood experience.
In addition to the exceptional calamari, the pork chops were perfectly seasoned and cooked well. The service was fast and efficient, with waiters providing excellent support throughout the dinner. The overall experience of enjoying a great meal in a relaxed atmosphere makes this restaurant a top recommendation.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Italian Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Dinner
11. LÝRA
Features a lively atmosphere with an open kitchen

The first dish is a ceviche that features a variety of seafood including poached octopus, calamari, and shrimp. The seafood is mixed with thinly sliced fennel and toasted chili oil, which adds a depth of flavor and a slight spiciness to the dish. Ceviche is a seafood dish that is popular in coastal regions of Latin America, and it is typically made from fresh raw fish that is cured in citrus juices, such as lemon or lime. In this version, the octopus, calamari, and shrimp are poached, which helps to tenderize the seafood and gives it a pleasant, chewy texture. The dish is priced at $24.00.
The second dish is crispy calamari, which is a popular appetizer in many restaurants. The calamari is coated in a light batter and deep-fried until it is golden brown and crispy. It is then served with a side of tangy marinara or cocktail sauce for dipping. Calamari is a type of squid, and it is a versatile ingredient that can be prepared in a variety of ways. In this dish, the calamari is cooked to perfection, with a tender, flavorful interior and a crispy exterior. The dish is a great option for those who enjoy seafood, and it is priced at $20.00.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- High-End
- Downtown Spots
Relate link
12. Gioia Chicago
Authentic Italian cuisine, cozy atmosphere, extensive wine list

The Fritto dish, which consists of fried calamari and shrimp, was a delightful part of the meal. The calamari, in particular, stood out for its tenderness and flavor. It was nicely complemented by the aioli sauce served alongside.
This Fritto dish, which features fried calamari and shrimp, is a must-try. The calamari, which was fried to crispy perfection, had a fresh and delicious taste that was enhanced by the aioli sauce. Despite being fried, the calamari was not overly oily.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Italian Cuisine
- Celebrations
- Downtown Spots
13. Talay Chicago
Casual atmosphere, late-night dining option, fast service, and diverse menu

The calamari in question received mixed reviews. One individual found it to be slightly overcooked, resulting in a tougher texture that was not to their preference. However, another person had a different experience, praising the calamari for being perfectly cooked.
The seasoning of the calamari was also a point of divergence between the two opinions. The first person did not mention anything about the seasoning, leaving it up to interpretation whether it was satisfactory or not. The second person, on the other hand, explicitly noted that the seasoning was well-done, adding to the overall deliciousness of the dish. Overall, while one person was not impressed by the calamari, the other highly recommended it as a must-try.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
14. Madison Crab House
Seafood focused menu, extensive wine list, and daily specials

Madison offers a variety of seafood that has received positive reviews, including calamari, crawfish, catfish, oysters, mussels, clams, and crab legs. The calamari stands out as a must-try, being perfectly cooked and well-seasoned.
The seafood selection at Madison is extensive and highly regarded. Among the options are crawfish, catfish, oysters, mussels, clams, and crab legs. Particularly noteworthy is the calamari, which has been praised for its excellent preparation and seasoning.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Social Gatherings
Relate link
15. Canal Street Eatery and Market
Cajun-Creole cuisine with a seafood focus

If you're looking for a delicious appetizer, the calamari comes highly recommended. The dish features tender squid that has been lightly breaded, providing a satisfying crunch with every bite. The calamari is then served with a spicy marinara sauce, adding a kick of heat that complements the dish perfectly. To balance out the spiciness, a creamy garlic aioli is also included, adding a rich and tangy flavor. Overall, the combination of the crispy calamari, spicy marinara, and cool garlic aioli makes for a standout dish.
In summary, the fried calamari with marinara and garlic aioli is a must-try. The dish offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures, with the tender calamari, crispy breading, spicy marinara, and creamy aioli all coming together in harmony. Whether you're a seafood lover or just looking to try something new, this appetizer is sure to impress.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Celebrations
16. Proxi
A fusion of Southeast Asian and French cuisine in a vibrant atmosphere

The calamari dish was a definite highlight of the meal. Its preparation and seasoning were exceptional, resulting in a perfectly cooked and delicious dish. The calamari had a satisfying crunch, adding to the overall enjoyable experience.
Food enthusiasts should not miss the opportunity to try this dish. The perfect cooking technique and seasoning used in the calamamri make it a standout choice. Its delightful crunch and delicious taste make it a must-try for anyone looking for a memorable dining experience.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
- Mid-Range
Relate link
17. Smyth
Taste of innovative and artistic dishes in a cozy atmosphere

The calamari dish was a standout, featuring perfectly cooked pieces that had a delightful crunch. The accompanying sauce added an extra element of flavor that complemented the calamari well. It was a definite highlight of the meal.
Speaking more specifically to the texture and taste of the calamari, it was both tender and flavorful. The excellent preparation resulted in a enjoyable eating experience that left a positive impression. This dish was a clear example of delicious cuisine.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- High-End
18. Cira
Offers a cozy and relaxed atmosphere with a variety of seating options.

The calamari dish at Cira in Chicago is truly exceptional. It stands out as one of the best calamari options in the city. If you're a fan of this dish, Cira is a must-visit.
The calamari at Cira is prepared to perfection. It features a delicate cooking process that results in a tender texture. The seasoning is expertly done, adding depth of flavor without overpowering the natural taste of the calamari. It's a highly recommend dish that should not be missed.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
Relate link
19. Boqueria Fulton Market
A lively and convivial atmosphere with a focus on traditional Spanish tapas

The calamari at Boqueria Fulton Market in Chicago is exceptional, with a crispy texture that provides a satisfying crunch and a delicious taste that is sure to delight. The dish is perfectly complemented by a delicious dipping sauce, enhancing its flavor and making it even more enjoyable.
Overall, the calamari at Boqueria Fulton Market is a must-try for anyone looking for delicious food in Chicago. Its high quality and delicious taste make it one of the standout dishes in the city, and I would highly recommend giving it a try if you have the opportunity.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Social Gatherings
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
20. Italian Homemade Company in West Loop
Friendly service, Cozy atmosphere, Great for families and groups

The calamari dish at Italian Homemade Company is a standout option, highly recommended for anyone visiting. The dish features fresh calamari, perfectly cooked and seasoned to bring out its natural flavor.
Summing up, the calamari from Italian Homemade Company is a delicious choice for anyone looking for a tasty and satisfying meal. The dish's freshness and quality, along with its perfect cooking and seasoning, make it a must-try for seafood lovers.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Italian Cuisine
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
Relate link
21. Tanoshii west loop
Authentic Japanese cuisine with a modern twist and a relaxed atmosphere

The calamari dish received contrasting opinions. One individual found the calamari chewy, which did not meet their preference. However, another person had a positive experience, enjoying the crispy texture and complementing the dipping sauce.
Despite different perspectives, the calamari was a central topic. One individual could not appreciate its tougher texture, while the other relished its crispy and delicious qualities. The dipping sauce also got a mention for enhancing the overall taste of the calamari.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
22. Lobster Bar

TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Gluten-Free
- Mid-Range