Best of 23 calamari in Chicago
"Calamari in Chicago" is a popular dish that combines the delicate taste of tender squid with the city's famous culinary scene. This dish is a must-try for seafood lovers visiting the Windy City. Chicago's top restaurants serve calamari in various styles, from traditional fried to grilled and seasoned with unique local flavors. Whether you're a local or a tourist, don't miss out on the delicious "calamari in Chicago" experience.
- 1. Ever Restaurant
- 2. Harry Caray's Italian Steakhouse
- 3. Quartino Ristorante
- 4. Sapori Trattoria
- 5. The Village
- 6. Calo Ristorante
- 7. Shaw's Crab House
- 8. La Scarola
- 9. Tufano's Vernon Park Tap
- 10. Club Lago
- 11. Riccardo Osteria
- 12. Topo Gigio Ristorante
- 13. Kinzie Chophouse
- 14. Rosebud on Rush
- 15. Hugo's Frog Bar & Fish House
- 16. Alegrias Seafood
- 17. Club Lucky
- 18. Coco Pazzo
- 19. Chicago Oyster House
- 20. Lure Fishbar - Chicago
- 21. Caro Mio Italian Restaurant
- 22. Esmeralda's Lounge
- 23. Terra E Mare
1. Ever Restaurant
Cozy atmosphere, attentive service, creative cocktails

The calamari at Ever Restaurant is a standout dish. Its preparation and seasoning were spot on, making it a memorable part of the meal. The texture of the calamari was tender, and it was full of flavor.
Ever Restaurant's calamari is a must-try for anyone who appreciates well-prepared seafood. The perfectly cooked and seasoned calamari will leave a lasting impression on anyone who tries it. It is a testament to the restaurant's commitment to providing high-quality, delicious food.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Celebrations
- High-End
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2. Harry Caray's Italian Steakhouse
This upscale steakhouse offers a sophisticated atmosphere, with dark wood accents and vintage sports memorabilia lining the walls.

Our dinner began with a selection of appetizers, including charcuterie, meatballs, and calamari. The service was exceptional, with our waiter promptly guiding us through the menu and providing valuable recommendations. We decided to try the filet and steak, both of which turned out to be excellent choices.
The main course featured lasagna, pappardelle with ragout, and a few steaks. The pappardelle was particularly noteworthy for its generous amount of meat. Our meal was delicious, and the calamari was a standout among the appetizers. In summary, our dining experience was marked by outstanding service and delicious food, making for a memorable meal.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- American Cuisine
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Italian Cuisine
3. Quartino Ristorante
Quartino Ristorante offers a lively and energetic atmosphere, with a focus on traditional Italian cuisine and a commitment to using only the freshest ingredients.

Shrimp Diablo was a standout dish, with perfect preparation and delicious flavor. However, the calamari was not as impressive. The taste was adequate, but it did not meet the high expectations set by previous experiences with this dish in other establishments.
Dining with a party of four presented a challenge due to an unsuitable table size. While the entrees were well-cooked and presented beautifully, the underwhelming calamari was a letdown. Overall, the meal had its ups and downs, with the Shrimp Diablo being a definite highlight.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Celebrations
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4. Sapori Trattoria
Warm and inviting atmosphere, Handmade pasta, Authentic Italian cuisine

The calamari stands out as a delicious and fresh option. Its marinara sauce adds a complementary layer of flavor that enhances the overall taste. The menu offers a variety of Italian dishes, and the rustic flavors are a highlight. The lasagna is another standout option that is sure to please.
Overall, the Italian dishes have a homemade and satisfying quality. The calamari, in particular, is exceptional due to its freshness and well-matched marinara sauce. Whether trying the lasagna or sticking with the popular calamari, patrons can expect robust and satisfying flavors from the menu. The restaurant achieves a balance of rustic and refined tastes, making it a great choice for a satisfying Italian meal.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
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5. The Village
Upscale sports bar atmosphere with TVs and cozy booths.

The calamari dish stood out as a highlight of the meal, with its expert cooking and seasoning providing an excellent beginning to the dining experience. Other notable dishes included the seafood manicotti, veal, and fettuccine Alfredo. The quality of the food was consistently high, making for a very satisfying meal.
In addition to the savory dishes, the cannoli desserts were a major success, earning high praise for their delicious taste. To round off the meal, a cappuccino with a shot of frangelico was suggested as a nightcap, indicating a well-curated and enjoyable dining experience.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Social Gatherings
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6. Calo Ristorante
Warm and inviting atmosphere, Excellent wine list, Friendly and knowledgeable staff

This restaurant is highly recommended for anyone looking for a fantastic dining experience. The food was incredibly delicious and enjoyed by all. One particular dish that stood out was the grilled calamari. It was expertly cooked, tender, and full of flavor. The seasoning was perfectly balanced, making it a truly memorable dish.
Overall, the menu offered a variety of options that catered to different tastes and preferences. The restaurant's commitment to using fresh and high-quality ingredients was evident in every dish. The atmosphere was cozy and inviting, making it the perfect spot for a night out with friends or a special occasion. The staff was friendly, attentive, and knowledgeable, providing excellent service throughout the evening. If you're looking for a standout restaurant experience, this place is definitely worth checking out.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Italian Cuisine
- Mid-Range
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7. Shaw's Crab House
Live jazz music on weekends, Historic Chicago location, Fresh seafood flown in daily

The seafood dishes, including oysters and calamari, stood out as particularly delicious in the meal. The oysters were fresh and well-prepared, providing a satisfying taste and texture. As for the calamari, it was cooked to perfection. The exterior was crispy and golden brown, while the inside remained tender and flavorful.
Overall, the calamari can be highlighted as a standout dish. Its expert preparation led to a perfect combination of crispy and tender textures, elevating the taste to a new level. The oysters, too, were not to be overlooked, as they were fresh and skillfully prepared. Both seafood options demonstrated the high quality of the meal.
TOPICS
- Waterfront
- Dinner
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8. La Scarola
Cash-only, family-owned since 1985, no reservations

La Scarola is a restaurant known for its delicious and high-quality food, as well as its lively and cozy atmosphere. One standout dish is the grilled calamari, which is perfectly cooked and seasoned. It is a must-try for anyone visiting the restaurant.
The grilled calamari at La Scarola is truly exceptional. The careful preparation and seasoning result in a dish that is sure to impress. The restaurant's lively atmosphere and cozy ambiance only add to the overall dining experience. If you're looking for a must-try dish at La Scarola, the grilled calamari is an excellent choice.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
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9. Tufano's Vernon Park Tap
Family-owned and operated bar since 1955, serving classic Italian-American dishes

The fried calamari is a standout dish that should not be missed. Its crispy exterior and delicious flavor make it a must-try for any seafood lover. The calamari is skillfully prepared, resulting in a perfect texture that is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
The calamari is truly phenomenal and offers an unbeatable taste. Its delicious flavor is sure to satisfy even the most discerning of palates. The skillful preparation of the calamari ensures that it is both crispy and tender, making it a delight to eat. Overall, the calamari is a highlight of the menu and is not to be missed.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
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10. Club Lago
Family-owned since 1952, intimate ambiance, and a diverse menu

The seafood at this establishment is outstanding. The calamari is especially noteworthy - it is incredibly fresh and expertly prepared. The shrimp cocktail is also a hit, with large and juicy shrimp. The chicken parmesan is another standout dish, with its crispy breading and flavorful sauce.
The staff at this restaurant is excellent and contributes to an enjoyable dining experience. The service is attentive and friendly, making it a great place for a casual meal or a special occasion. The restaurant has received positive reviews for its food and service, with many customers praising the freshness and quality of the seafood. The inviting atmosphere and delicious food make this a must-visit destination for seafood lovers.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
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11. Riccardo Osteria
Cozy atmosphere, authentic Italian cuisine, extensive wine list

Riccardo Osteria is a charming Italian restaurant known for its exceptional cuisine and welcoming atmosphere. The menu features a variety of delicious dishes, with the gnocchi and tuna tartare being particularly noteworthy. The warm decor and attentive servers create a cozy and inviting ambiance, making it a great spot for special occasions. While the tables may be a bit close together, the high-quality food and drinks make up for it. Standout dishes include the salmon, pasta, and tiramisu, all of which are must-tries.
A group of seven people recently dined at Riccardo Osteria and were impressed by every dish they tried. The meal included a burrata, fried calamari and shrimp, tuna tartare, truffle risotto, lamb Milanese, salmon, mussels in pot, and three pastas (bolognese, sausage, and short ribs). Each dish was expertly prepared and full of flavor, making for a truly memorable dining experience. The staff's knowledgeable recommendations and attentive service contributed to the overall positive experience.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Social Gatherings
- Downtown Spots
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12. Topo Gigio Ristorante
Cozy atmosphere, Authentic Italian cuisine, Extensive wine list, Live music on weekends

The grilled calamari stood out during our meal, exhibiting excellent preparation and taste. It was perfectly seasoned, providing a delightful sensory experience. Sharing the limelight was the bruschetta, which was also a standout. Its deliciousness was impressive, making it a memorable part of our dinner.
Our dinner was made special by the calamari alla griglia, which was skillfully cooked and bursting with flavor. The bruschetta was equally impressive, boasting a simple yet scrumptious flavor. Together, these dishes made for a memorable dining experience that left us satisfied.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Mid-Range
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13. Kinzie Chophouse
Upscale atmosphere, extensive wine list, and knowledgeable staff

The calamari appetizer stood out in the meal, with a notable consensus on its good flavor. The texture, however, was subject to different opinions. One assessment found it to be cooked and seasoned to perfection, while another opinion pointed out a chewier texture that did not completely disappoint but differed from the ideal preference.
In summary, the calamari's flavor was a success, with its taste pleasing the majority. However, the texture seemed to vary, as some described it as just the right consistency, while others considered it slightly chewier than desired. Overall, the calamari proved to be a worthy starter, appealing to different taste and texture preferences.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
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14. Rosebud on Rush
Features a vibrant bar and live music on select nights

The restaurant in question offers an eclectic dining experience with a focus on providing good service. One noteworthy dish is the red sauce, which has a unique pinkish appearance due to its cream and cheese base. The pappardelle and Italian sausage are also quite delicious. For those who enjoy seafood, the calamari and seafood stew are excellent choices. However, the traditional spaghetti with shrimp was found to be lacking in flavor.
In addition to the food, the restaurant also offers outdoor dining, which is a popular choice among patrons. Despite the busy dining scene, the restaurant is able to seat customers quickly, providing a seamless dining experience. The calamari, in particular, is a standout dish, with the option to have it broiled. Unfortunately, the traditional spaghetti with shrimp misses the mark in terms of flavor.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Celebrations
- Downtown Spots
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15. Hugo's Frog Bar & Fish House
Upscale seafood restaurant in Chicago's Gold Coast

The calamari appetizer was a standout dish, featuring a delicious buttermilk batter that made it incredibly light and crispy. The expert cooking technique ensured that the calamari was perfectly cooked, resulting in a tender and flavorful taste.
As a complement to the calamari, the cocktail sauce added a tangy and refreshing element. This dish is highly recommended for those who want to try something new and exciting. With its perfect combination of flavors and textures, the calamari is a must-try for any food enthusiast.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- High-End
- Downtown Spots
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16. Alegrias Seafood
Authentic Spanish seafood cuisine in a cozy atmosphere

The calamari dish in question had different texture interpretations. One person found the calamari chewy, while another person described it as perfectly cooked. Both parties, however, agreed on the seasoning of the calamari being satisfactory. The first person thought the seasoning was "spot on," and the second person raved about it being "perfectly seasoned."
Both individuals seemed to have enjoyed the calamari's flavor profile, regardless of their different opinions on its texture. The second person even went so far as to recommend trying the dish, implying that it was a standout selection. In summary, the calamari dish had an appealing taste, with its seasoning being a particular highlight, despite varying opinions on its texture.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
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17. Club Lucky
Cozy Italian-American eatery with a vintage vibe and live jazz on weekends.

The calamari stood out as a must-try dish, having been cooked to perfection. The batter-fried calamari was a delight, with its fresh ocean taste that left a lasting impression.
If you're looking for a standout dish, the calamari is a top choice. The exquisite batter-frying technique ensured that the calamari was cooked just right, and its fresh ocean flavor made it a memorable treat.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Happy Hours
- Downtown Spots
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18. Coco Pazzo
Housed in a historic building with a cozy and intimate atmosphere

Paragraph 1: The calamari dish received mixed reviews. One opinion found the calamari to be too chewy, which detracted from the overall enjoyment of the dish. Despite this, the calamari had a decent flavor, but its texture was not up to par.
Paragraph 2: Contrarily, the calamari also received high praise for its excellent texture. It was described as crispy and tender, making it a standout appetizer. The positive review highly recommends trying this calamari dish for a delightful seafood experience.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- High-End
- Downtown Spots
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19. Chicago Oyster House
Fresh seafood flown in daily, Raw bar, Cozy atmosphere

The fried calamari dish displayed contrasting textures, with a delightful crispy exterior and tender interior that makes it worth trying.
On the other hand, the calamari had a slightly chewy texture, which may not appeal to everyone. However, the seasoning used in the dish received positive feedback for being on-point.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
- Celebrations
20. Lure Fishbar - Chicago
Nautical-themed restaurant with a raw bar and sushi bar.

The calamari appetizer was a standout dish at this restaurant. Its crispy texture made it a delicious start to the meal. The calamari was skillfully cooked, achieving a perfect level of tenderness on the inside while having a satisfying crunch on the outside.
Furthermore, the calamari was well-seasoned, adding to its overall flavor profile. It is highly recommended to try this appetizer when visiting the restaurant. The impeccable preparation of the calamari indicates the high-quality dishes that can be expected for the rest of the meal.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Waterfront
21. Caro Mio Italian Restaurant
Offers a cozy and intimate atmosphere with a great selection of wines.

The calamari dish was skillfully prepared, with a perfectly cooked texture and well-seasoned flavor. It is a highly recommended appetizer for anyone who enjoys excellent cuisine.
I was particularly impressed with the calamari's crispy exterior and tender interior, which made for a delightful culinary experience. This appetizer is a must-try for anyone who appreciates well-prepared calamari.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Social Gatherings
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
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22. Esmeralda's Lounge
Live music on weekends, friendly and attentive staff, warm decor

Esmeralda's Lounge offers a delightful calamari dish that is sure to impress. The calamari is incredibly fresh, providing a pleasant and enjoyable dining experience. The exterior of the calamari is crispy and well-cooked, adding a satisfying crunch with each bite. The dipping sauce that accompanies the calamari complements the dish well, enhancing its flavors. Food enthusiasts should not miss the opportunity to try this exquisite calamari at Esmeralda's Lounge.
In summary, the freshness and delicious taste of the calamari at Esmeralda's Lounge make it a standout dish. The perfect crispiness of the calamari, along with its well-matched dipping sauce, make it a must-try for anyone visiting the lounge. This dish is a testament to Esmeralda's commitment to providing high-quality food and a memorable dining experience.
TOPICS
- Affordable Nightlife
- Hidden Gems
- Vegan Options
23. Terra E Mare
Unique Italian-seafood fusion in the heart of Chicago

The calamari served at this establishment is truly exceptional. It boasts a fresh taste that stands out from any calamari I have had before, having lived in various regions including both coasts of the US and up and down the East Coast. The cooking technique is perfect, resulting in a crispy exterior and tender interior that only adds to the overall deliciousness of the dish.
I highly recommend trying the calamari at this restaurant. Its impressive flavor and texture are sure to impress even the most discerning of palates. The exterior offers a satisfying crunch, while the interior is tender and cooked to perfection. It is clear that great care has been taken to ensure the quality of this dish, making it a must-try for any seafood lover.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Celebrations
- Mid-Range
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