Top 17 calamari in River North
In the heart of Chicago's vibrant River North district, calamari is a must-try dish. This popular seafood delicacy is renowned for its tender texture and delicious taste. Prepared in various styles, River North's calamari is a culinary delight that combines traditional Italian cuisine with modern flair. From crispy fried calamari to grilled or marinated, this dish offers a unique dining experience in one of Chicago's most exciting neighborhoods.
Toc
- 1. Siena Tavern in River North
- 2. Quartino Ristorante
- 3. RPM Seafood
- 4. Club Lago
- 5. River Roast in River North
- 6. Maggiano's Little Italy
- 7. Joe's Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab
- 8. Il Porcellino
- 9. Shaw's Crab House
- 10. Harry Caray's Italian Steakhouse
- 11. Torchio Pasta Bar
- 12. Nonnina
- 13. Ciccio Mio
- 14. Lure Fishbar - Chicago
- 15. Union Sushi + Barbeque Bar in River North
- 16. Bavette's Bar & Boeuf
- 17. OLIO E PIÙ
1. Siena Tavern in River North
Spacious patio seating with a retractable roof
__NEW TEXT__
Siena Tavern is known for its delicious calamari. The dish features perfectly cooked and well-seasoned squid, making it a standout option. This calamari is widely considered to be some of the best around, and is highly recommended for anyone looking for a taste of excellence.
If you're in the mood for an exceptional calamari dish, Siena Tavern is the place to go. The restaurant has mastered the art of cooking calamari, resulting in a mouthwatering dish that combines perfectly cooked squid with expert seasoning. This is a must-try for any seafood lover.
Siena Tavern is known for its delicious calamari. The dish features perfectly cooked and well-seasoned squid, making it a standout option. This calamari is widely considered to be some of the best around, and is highly recommended for anyone looking for a taste of excellence.
If you're in the mood for an exceptional calamari dish, Siena Tavern is the place to go. The restaurant has mastered the art of cooking calamari, resulting in a mouthwatering dish that combines perfectly cooked squid with expert seasoning. This is a must-try for any seafood lover.
TOPICS
- Personal Celebrations
- Italian Cuisine
- Mid-Range
2. Quartino Ristorante
Quartino Ristorante offers a lively and energetic atmosphere, with a focus on serving authentic Italian cuisine.
__NEW TEXT__
Shrimp Diablo was a standout dish, enjoyed by the recipient. However, the Calamari, while still palatable, did not meet their expectations. The Calamari was found to be slightly disappointing when compared to other Calamari dishes tried in the past.
Moving on to the main courses, they were a success. The entrees delivered on flavor and quality. Yet, the Calamari, though a part of the meal, did not live up to the same standard. It was a less impressive aspect of the dining experience.
Shrimp Diablo was a standout dish, enjoyed by the recipient. However, the Calamari, while still palatable, did not meet their expectations. The Calamari was found to be slightly disappointing when compared to other Calamari dishes tried in the past.
Moving on to the main courses, they were a success. The entrees delivered on flavor and quality. Yet, the Calamari, though a part of the meal, did not live up to the same standard. It was a less impressive aspect of the dining experience.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Celebrations
Relate link
3. RPM Seafood
Waterfront views, extensive wine list, raw bar
__NEW TEXT__
The calamari stood out as a delicious and satisfying part of the meal. Its crispy texture and delightful flavor made it a memorable dish. The excellent cooking and seasoning of the calamari contributed to its status as a highlight of the dining experience.
Crispy and perfectly cooked, the calamari was a definite must-try. Its seasoning was on point, adding to the overall enjoyable taste of the dish. Food lovers should not miss the opportunity to savor this delectable calamari when having a meal.
The calamari stood out as a delicious and satisfying part of the meal. Its crispy texture and delightful flavor made it a memorable dish. The excellent cooking and seasoning of the calamari contributed to its status as a highlight of the dining experience.
Crispy and perfectly cooked, the calamari was a definite must-try. Its seasoning was on point, adding to the overall enjoyable taste of the dish. Food lovers should not miss the opportunity to savor this delectable calamari when having a meal.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
Relate link
4. Club Lago
A hidden gem in Chicago's River North neighborhood with a warm and welcoming ambiance.
__NEW TEXT__
The seafood at this establishment is delicious and fresh. The fried calamari stands out as one of the freshest and most enjoyable the reviewer has had in years. The shrimp cocktail is also a hit, with its generous portion and plump shrimp. The chicken parmesan is a must-try, impressing guests with its excellent preparation and taste.
The staff at this restaurant is commendable, providing great service to customers. With a friendly and attentive demeanor, the team contributes to the overall positive dining experience. A recommendation is made to try the establishment, with the sentiment that one will not be disappointed.
The seafood at this establishment is delicious and fresh. The fried calamari stands out as one of the freshest and most enjoyable the reviewer has had in years. The shrimp cocktail is also a hit, with its generous portion and plump shrimp. The chicken parmesan is a must-try, impressing guests with its excellent preparation and taste.
The staff at this restaurant is commendable, providing great service to customers. With a friendly and attentive demeanor, the team contributes to the overall positive dining experience. A recommendation is made to try the establishment, with the sentiment that one will not be disappointed.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
Relate link
5. River Roast in River North
Scenic river views, lively atmosphere, diverse menu
__NEW TEXT__
The calamari dish at River Roast in Chicago is truly exceptional. Its taste and quality have left a lasting impression, making it one of the best calamari experiences I've had in the city. The dish stands out for its perfect crispness and delightful flavor, which I wholeheartedly recommend to anyone visiting the restaurant.
Upon tasting the calamari, I was immediately impressed with its crispy texture and delicious taste. The paired dipping sauce complemented the dish well, enhancing its overall savoriness. This calamari dish has undoubtedly secured a spot on my list of top recommendations for River Roast's visitors.
The calamari dish at River Roast in Chicago is truly exceptional. Its taste and quality have left a lasting impression, making it one of the best calamari experiences I've had in the city. The dish stands out for its perfect crispness and delightful flavor, which I wholeheartedly recommend to anyone visiting the restaurant.
Upon tasting the calamari, I was immediately impressed with its crispy texture and delicious taste. The paired dipping sauce complemented the dish well, enhancing its overall savoriness. This calamari dish has undoubtedly secured a spot on my list of top recommendations for River Roast's visitors.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Waterfront
- Dinner
6. Maggiano's Little Italy
Offers wide variety of Italian dishes and large servings
__NEW TEXT__
The calamari stood out as a highlight of the meal, with everyone at the table enthusiastically partaking in eating it with their fingers. The meal was a feast of various dishes, including stuffed mushrooms, fried calamari, eggplant parmesan, clams and linguine in a white sauce, salmon, and chicken piccata. It was a communal dining experience, with everyone sharing the dishes family-style.
Stuffed mushrooms, fried calamari, eggplant parmesan, clams and linguine, salmon, and chicken piccata were just some of the dishes enjoyed during the meal. The standout favorites were the calamari and clams, with the lemon cookies served for dessert also leaving a delightful impression. The large group of friends shared all the dishes, making the dining experience even more enjoyable.
The calamari stood out as a highlight of the meal, with everyone at the table enthusiastically partaking in eating it with their fingers. The meal was a feast of various dishes, including stuffed mushrooms, fried calamari, eggplant parmesan, clams and linguine in a white sauce, salmon, and chicken piccata. It was a communal dining experience, with everyone sharing the dishes family-style.
Stuffed mushrooms, fried calamari, eggplant parmesan, clams and linguine, salmon, and chicken piccata were just some of the dishes enjoyed during the meal. The standout favorites were the calamari and clams, with the lemon cookies served for dessert also leaving a delightful impression. The large group of friends shared all the dishes, making the dining experience even more enjoyable.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
Relate link
7. Joe's Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab
Classic Chicago seafood restaurant, Friendly service, Elegant atmosphere
__NEW TEXT__
The author has frequently visited the place over the years and has always left satisfied. The fried calamari, fried green tomatoes, king crab roll, dover sole, and their desserts are some of the recommended dishes. The halibut stood out as a particularly amazing dish during one of the visits.
In addition to the halibut, the fried calamari was another dish that was enjoyed. However, the chopped steak was a bit underwhelming, tasting more like meatloaf than traditional chopped steak. Nonetheless, the overall dining experience has been positive, with the majority of the dishes highly recommended.
The author has frequently visited the place over the years and has always left satisfied. The fried calamari, fried green tomatoes, king crab roll, dover sole, and their desserts are some of the recommended dishes. The halibut stood out as a particularly amazing dish during one of the visits.
In addition to the halibut, the fried calamari was another dish that was enjoyed. However, the chopped steak was a bit underwhelming, tasting more like meatloaf than traditional chopped steak. Nonetheless, the overall dining experience has been positive, with the majority of the dishes highly recommended.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
Relate link
8. Il Porcellino
Offers a wide variety of authentic Italian dishes, using fresh and high-quality ingredients
__NEW TEXT__
The grilled calamari arrabiata and the fried calamari were both delightful dishes at this establishment. The grilled calamari arrabiata was a standout, thanks to its spicy arrabiata sauce and well-cooked calamari. If you're a fan of spicy food, this dish is highly recommended. On the other hand, the fried calamari was also a hit. It was perfectly cooked, with a crispy exterior and tender interior. Its delicious taste makes it a definite must-try.
In summary, if you're looking for a tasty seafood dish, the grilled calamari arrabiata and the fried calamari are excellent choices. While the grilled calamari offers a spicy kick, the fried calamari delivers a more classic and universally appealing flavor. Both dishes are standouts and worthy of trying on your visit.
The grilled calamari arrabiata and the fried calamari were both delightful dishes at this establishment. The grilled calamari arrabiata was a standout, thanks to its spicy arrabiata sauce and well-cooked calamari. If you're a fan of spicy food, this dish is highly recommended. On the other hand, the fried calamari was also a hit. It was perfectly cooked, with a crispy exterior and tender interior. Its delicious taste makes it a definite must-try.
In summary, if you're looking for a tasty seafood dish, the grilled calamari arrabiata and the fried calamari are excellent choices. While the grilled calamari offers a spicy kick, the fried calamari delivers a more classic and universally appealing flavor. Both dishes are standouts and worthy of trying on your visit.
TOPICS
- Celebrations
- Italian Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
9. Shaw's Crab House
Live jazz music on weekends, fresh seafood flown in daily, and harbor views
__NEW TEXT__
The seafood selection at Shaws was exceptional, with the oysters and fried calamari being particular standouts. The Caesar salad was incredibly fresh, and the crab legs were succulent and flavorful. The rolls were another highlight, bursting with freshness and taste. Other menu items, such as the fries, were also noteworthy.
In summary, Shaws offered a fantastic dining experience, with the seafood dishes being especially impressive. The Caesar salad, crab legs, rolls, and fried calamari were all notable for their freshness and taste. Although there were many other delicious dishes served, these were the clear favorites.
The seafood selection at Shaws was exceptional, with the oysters and fried calamari being particular standouts. The Caesar salad was incredibly fresh, and the crab legs were succulent and flavorful. The rolls were another highlight, bursting with freshness and taste. Other menu items, such as the fries, were also noteworthy.
In summary, Shaws offered a fantastic dining experience, with the seafood dishes being especially impressive. The Caesar salad, crab legs, rolls, and fried calamari were all notable for their freshness and taste. Although there were many other delicious dishes served, these were the clear favorites.
TOPICS
- Waterfront
- Dinner
10. Harry Caray's Italian Steakhouse
Featuring a lively atmosphere and a wide selection of wines
__NEW TEXT__
The food at this establishment is highly regarded by customers for its quality and taste. Popular dishes include chicken vesuvio, burgers, steak, as well as appetizers such as calamari and ravioli. Among the raved-about dishes are the lasagna, pappardelle with ragout rich in meat, and various steaks.
The appetizers, including charcuterie, meatballs, and calamari, were served quickly, as was the main course. Customers have praised the speed of service in addition to the delicious food.
The food at this establishment is highly regarded by customers for its quality and taste. Popular dishes include chicken vesuvio, burgers, steak, as well as appetizers such as calamari and ravioli. Among the raved-about dishes are the lasagna, pappardelle with ragout rich in meat, and various steaks.
The appetizers, including charcuterie, meatballs, and calamari, were served quickly, as was the main course. Customers have praised the speed of service in addition to the delicious food.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- American Cuisine
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Italian Cuisine
11. Torchio Pasta Bar
Homemade pasta, fresh ingredients, and a variety of vegetarian and vegan options.
__NEW TEXT__
The calamari dish was a delightful start to the meal, offering a satisfying crunch without being overly greasy. It was clearly prepared with care, as the calamari was cooked to perfection and generously seasoned.
This appetizer is a must-try for anyone who visits, showcasing the restaurant's commitment to quality and flavor. The crispy texture and delicious seasoning made it a standout dish, setting a high standard for the rest of the meal.
The calamari dish was a delightful start to the meal, offering a satisfying crunch without being overly greasy. It was clearly prepared with care, as the calamari was cooked to perfection and generously seasoned.
This appetizer is a must-try for anyone who visits, showcasing the restaurant's commitment to quality and flavor. The crispy texture and delicious seasoning made it a standout dish, setting a high standard for the rest of the meal.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
Relate link
12. Nonnina
Cozy atmosphere, friendly staff, authentic Italian cuisine
__NEW TEXT__
The calamari at Nonnina is a standout dish, with a crispy texture and delightful flavor that makes it one of the best options in Chicago. The dish is served with a tasty sauce that includes capers, adding an extra layer of flavor. In addition to the calamari, the meatballs at Nonnina are also worth trying, with a delicious taste and small pieces of toast that complement the dish well.
Overall, the seafood and meat options at Nonnina are both impressive, offering high-quality flavors and textures that are sure to satisfy. The crispy calamari and tasty meatballs are just two examples of the many dishes that make Nonnina a great dining destination in Chicago. Whether you're in the mood for seafood or meat, Nonnina has something to offer that is sure to please.
The calamari at Nonnina is a standout dish, with a crispy texture and delightful flavor that makes it one of the best options in Chicago. The dish is served with a tasty sauce that includes capers, adding an extra layer of flavor. In addition to the calamari, the meatballs at Nonnina are also worth trying, with a delicious taste and small pieces of toast that complement the dish well.
Overall, the seafood and meat options at Nonnina are both impressive, offering high-quality flavors and textures that are sure to satisfy. The crispy calamari and tasty meatballs are just two examples of the many dishes that make Nonnina a great dining destination in Chicago. Whether you're in the mood for seafood or meat, Nonnina has something to offer that is sure to please.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Celebrations
- Downtown Spots
13. Ciccio Mio
Friendly staff, cozy atmosphere, and authentic Italian cuisine
__NEW TEXT__
The dining experience was exceptional, from the moment we arrived until we left. Two drinks were served to each of us, and every sip was delightful. Our appetizer was calamari, which, though tasty, might be omitted in the future. As for our main dishes, I enjoyed a well-prepared vodka rigatoni that boasted a fluffy texture and rich flavor. Similarly, the chicken vesuvio was a hit, serving up delicious satisfaction to my dining partner.
Remarkable service and cuisine marked this dining experience. Each of us was served two delicious drinks throughout the evening. The calamari app was enjoyable, although we might pass it up during our next visit. My entree, vodka rigatoni, featured a delightful fluffiness and exquisite taste. My companion's choice, the chicken vesuvio, was equally delightful and satisfying.
The dining experience was exceptional, from the moment we arrived until we left. Two drinks were served to each of us, and every sip was delightful. Our appetizer was calamari, which, though tasty, might be omitted in the future. As for our main dishes, I enjoyed a well-prepared vodka rigatoni that boasted a fluffy texture and rich flavor. Similarly, the chicken vesuvio was a hit, serving up delicious satisfaction to my dining partner.
Remarkable service and cuisine marked this dining experience. Each of us was served two delicious drinks throughout the evening. The calamari app was enjoyable, although we might pass it up during our next visit. My entree, vodka rigatoni, featured a delightful fluffiness and exquisite taste. My companion's choice, the chicken vesuvio, was equally delightful and satisfying.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
Relate link
14. Lure Fishbar - Chicago
Stylish nautical decor, popular raw bar, seafood-focused menu
__NEW TEXT__
The calamari appetizer was a delicious start to the meal. Its crispy texture and delightful flavor made it a standout dish. The calamari was cooked to perfection, with just the right amount of seasoning to enhance its natural taste.
This appetizer is highly recommended for anyone looking for a tasty start to their meal. The combination of crispy exterior and tender, flavorful calamari was a delight for the taste buds. Overall, the calamari was a perfect example of how simple ingredients can be transformed into a delicious and unforgettable dish.
The calamari appetizer was a delicious start to the meal. Its crispy texture and delightful flavor made it a standout dish. The calamari was cooked to perfection, with just the right amount of seasoning to enhance its natural taste.
This appetizer is highly recommended for anyone looking for a tasty start to their meal. The combination of crispy exterior and tender, flavorful calamari was a delight for the taste buds. Overall, the calamari was a perfect example of how simple ingredients can be transformed into a delicious and unforgettable dish.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Waterfront
15. Union Sushi + Barbeque Bar in River North
Offers a unique combination of sushi and Korean barbecue
__NEW TEXT__
Union Sushi + Barbeque Bar offers exceptional calamari that is sure to delight. The calamari is expertly seasoned and incredibly tender, providing a satisfying texture in each bite. The cooking technique used results in perfectly cooked calamari, elevating the dish to a must-try.
The flavor of the calamari is outstanding, making it a standout dish at Union Sushi + Barbeque Bar. The taste is enhanced by the impeccable seasoning and expert cooking, resulting in a memorable culinary experience. Diners are sure to enjoy the delicious and satisfying calamari offered at this establishment.
Union Sushi + Barbeque Bar offers exceptional calamari that is sure to delight. The calamari is expertly seasoned and incredibly tender, providing a satisfying texture in each bite. The cooking technique used results in perfectly cooked calamari, elevating the dish to a must-try.
The flavor of the calamari is outstanding, making it a standout dish at Union Sushi + Barbeque Bar. The taste is enhanced by the impeccable seasoning and expert cooking, resulting in a memorable culinary experience. Diners are sure to enjoy the delicious and satisfying calamari offered at this establishment.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Dinner
- Late Night
16. Bavette's Bar & Boeuf
The ambiance is dimly lit, with a lively and cozy atmosphere, and a live jazz band performing on weekends.
__NEW TEXT__
The calamari stands out as a delicious and satisfying appetizer option. Its crispy texture and delightful flavor make it a must-try. The dipping sauce complements the calamari perfectly, enhancing its taste. It's evident that great care has been taken to ensure the calamari is cooked and seasoned to perfection.
This appetizer is a perfect example of excellent culinary skills. The crispy calamari and tasty dipping sauce create a harmonious combination that leaves a lasting impression. Food enthusiasts looking for a great appetizer should not miss out on this perfectly cooked and seasoned calamari.
The calamari stands out as a delicious and satisfying appetizer option. Its crispy texture and delightful flavor make it a must-try. The dipping sauce complements the calamari perfectly, enhancing its taste. It's evident that great care has been taken to ensure the calamari is cooked and seasoned to perfection.
This appetizer is a perfect example of excellent culinary skills. The crispy calamari and tasty dipping sauce create a harmonious combination that leaves a lasting impression. Food enthusiasts looking for a great appetizer should not miss out on this perfectly cooked and seasoned calamari.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Social Gatherings
- Downtown Spots
- Mid-Range
Relate link
17. OLIO E PIÙ
Cozy atmosphere with exceptional service
__NEW TEXT__
The calamari dish at OLIO E PIÙ is a standout option that shouldn't be missed. Its tenderness and rich flavor make it a memorable choice for any seafood lover. The calamari is skillfully cooked to perfection, resulting in a delicious and satisfying start to any meal at the restaurant.
OLIO E PIÙ's calamari is expertly seasoned, adding to its overall flavor and enjoyment. The impeccable preparation of the dish makes it a clear highlight of the restaurant's offerings. The calamari's tenderness and seasoning make it a must-try for anyone looking for a taste of high-quality seafood.
The calamari dish at OLIO E PIÙ is a standout option that shouldn't be missed. Its tenderness and rich flavor make it a memorable choice for any seafood lover. The calamari is skillfully cooked to perfection, resulting in a delicious and satisfying start to any meal at the restaurant.
OLIO E PIÙ's calamari is expertly seasoned, adding to its overall flavor and enjoyment. The impeccable preparation of the dish makes it a clear highlight of the restaurant's offerings. The calamari's tenderness and seasoning make it a must-try for anyone looking for a taste of high-quality seafood.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Italian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
Relate link
