Top 31 calamari in Milwaukee
Discover the vibrant culinary scene of calamari in Milwaukee, where this beloved dish takes center stage. From trendy restaurants to local seafood joints, calamari in Milwaukee offers a delightful array of flavors and preparations. Whether fried, grilled, or served with unique sauces, calamari in Milwaukee is a must-try for seafood enthusiasts and foodies alike.
- 1. Calderone Club - Downtown Milwaukee
- 2. Tenuta's Italian Restaurant
- 3. Santino's Little Italy
- 4. Stella Van Buren
- 5. San Giorgio Pizzeria Napoletana
- 6. Carini's Southern Italian Restaurant
- 7. The Original
- 8. Oakland Gyros (Oakland Ave)
- 9. The Capital Grille
- 10. Brass Key Restaurant
- 11. Oakland Gyros on Layton
- 12. Harbor House
- 13. Carnevor
- 14. Twisted Fisherman
- 15. La Merenda
- 16. Milwaukee Sail Loft
- 17. The Packing House
- 18. Barnacle Bud's
- 19. Third Coast Provisions
- 20. Il Cervo
- 21. Zarletti
- 22. Milwaukee ChopHouse
- 23. Lupi & Iris
- 24. Safina
- 25. Centro Cafe
- 26. Brisa Do Mar
- 27. Kanpai Izakaya
- 28. Lowcountry Milwaukee
- 29. Onesto
- 30. Screaming Tuna Milwaukee
- 31. Avli Milwaukee
5. San Giorgio Pizzeria Napoletana
Authentic Neapolitan pizza crafted with fresh ingredients and passion.

This pizzeria is a hidden gem, offering exceptional Italian cuisine in a cozy setting. The food is flavorful and expertly prepared, and the service is attentive and friendly. Reservations are recommended, as the restaurant is small and tends to fill up quickly.
Located in Old World 3rd Street, this pizzeria is a must-visit for anyone seeking authentic Italian flavors. The menu features classic dishes made with fresh, high-quality ingredients, resulting in an unforgettable dining experience. Be sure to make a reservation, as this popular spot often fills up quickly.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Italian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
- Celebrations
6. Carini's Southern Italian Restaurant
Authentic Southern Italian flavors with a focus on fresh seafood.

The fried calamari is a popular choice, consistently garnering praise for its crisp exterior and flavorful marinara sauce. Customers often rave about its satisfying crunch and the rich, tangy sauce that complements the tender calamari.
Another crowd-pleaser is the grilled calamari steak, which is especially delicious when paired with the tangy and sweet balsamic vinaigrette. The grilled calamari offers a different flavor profile, showcasing the natural taste of the seafood enhanced by the smoky char of the grill.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
- Dinner
- Celebrations
9. The Capital Grille
Experience fine dining with exceptional service and exquisite flavors.

The calamari was a standout dish. It was cooked to perfection, crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. The accompanying marinara sauce was flavorful and tangy, complementing the calamari beautifully.
This calamari was simply outstanding. The batter was light and airy, resulting in a crispy exterior that gave way to a succulent and tender interior. The accompanying sauce was a perfect balance of sweet and savory, enhancing the flavor of the calamari without overwhelming it.
TOPICS
- Corporate Events
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- High-End
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
12. Harbor House
Experience exceptional seafood dining with a stunning waterfront view.

The calamari is consistently prepared to a high standard, with a light and crispy exterior and a tender interior. The cooking process is expertly managed, ensuring that the calamari is never overly oily, resulting in a delightful dining experience.
This establishment's calamari is truly exceptional. The delicate balance of crispiness and tenderness is a testament to the chef's skill, while the absence of excessive grease further enhances the flavor and enjoyment of this classic dish.
TOPICS
- Holiday Celebrations
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Gluten-Free
- Mid-Range
- Waterfront
- Dinner
13. Carnevor
Exceptional steaks and service, perfect for special occasions.

This Milwaukee steakhouse is a standout, offering a delightful dining experience. The attentive service and exceptional cuisine create a memorable evening.
The ambiance is ideal for celebrating special occasions, and the steaks are cooked to perfection. Every aspect of the meal is expertly executed, leaving diners with a truly satisfying experience.
TOPICS
- Corporate Events
- American Cuisine
- Gluten-Free
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
14. Twisted Fisherman

15. La Merenda
A delightful blend of flavors in every dish, perfect for sharing.

The calamari is a highlight, consistently prepared with a satisfyingly crisp exterior and a flavorful interior. Seafood enthusiasts will find this dish a must-try.
The calamari stands out as a well-executed dish, boasting a perfect balance of texture and taste. The crispy exterior is a delightful treat, making it a standout option for seafood lovers.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
16. Milwaukee Sail Loft

17. The Packing House
Experience classic Wisconsin dishes in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere.

The menu features crowd-pleasing options like bacon-wrapped water chestnuts and a spinach salad with a hot bacon dressing, demonstrating the kitchen's commitment to flavorful and satisfying dishes. Guests consistently praise the quality of the food, which is expertly prepared by top chefs.
The food at this restaurant is both delicious and generously portioned, offering excellent value for the price. Diners appreciate the attention to detail and the culinary skill evident in every dish.
TOPICS
- Personal Celebrations
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
- Waterfront
- Dinner
19. Third Coast Provisions
Savor innovative seafood dishes in a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere.

The ginger marinated squid is a culinary delight, demonstrating the chef's inventive approach to flavor. The squid is expertly prepared, with a marinade that balances the ginger's spiciness with subtle sweetness.
The crispy calamari is a standout dish, its light and airy texture enhanced by a perfectly seasoned batter. Each bite offers a satisfying crunch followed by a tender and flavorful squid.
TOPICS
- Personal Celebrations
- American Cuisine
- Gluten-Free
- Mid-Range
- Waterfront
- Dinner
20. Il Cervo

21. Zarletti
Experience authentic Italian flavors with a modern twist in a cozy atmosphere.

The calamari appetizer is a standout dish, featuring tender, fresh calamari that is expertly cooked. Its light and flavorful preparation makes it a delightful starter.
For a more substantial option, the stuffed calamari with tomato and onion sauce is a customer favorite. The calamari is filled with a savory mixture and bathed in a rich, flavorful sauce, creating a satisfying and flavorful meal.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Italian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- High-End
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
22. Milwaukee ChopHouse

23. Lupi & Iris
Experience culinary perfection with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.

The wood-grilled calamari ($19) is a must-try, showcasing tweezer-plating perfection. Tender rings of squid are folded into a vibrant salad featuring Belgian endive, chickpeas, prosciutto, and tomatoes. The dish is elevated by subtle hints of lemon, mint, and sea salt, creating a refreshingly harmonious combination of flavors and textures.
This dish is a testament to the chef's skill, with the calamari cooked to perfection and the salad bursting with fresh ingredients. The balance of flavors and textures is impeccable, making the wood-grilled calamari a true highlight of the menu.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
- Weekend Dining
24. Safina
Experience authentic Sicilian flavors in a cozy atmosphere.

The calamari is a standout dish, consistently impressing diners with its crisp texture and flavorful preparation. The accompanying dipping sauce enhances the experience, making it a favorite among families.
A must-order is the calamari fritte, which delights with its perfectly fried exterior and satisfyingly tender interior. The accompanying sauce adds another layer of flavor, rounding out this delectable dish.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Personal Celebrations
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
26. Brisa Do Mar
Enjoy authentic Italian cuisine with stunning river views and live music.

The new restaurant offers a delightful dining experience, featuring authentic and flavorful ingredients prepared with meticulous attention to detail. Generous portions ensure a satisfying meal, while the beautiful riverfront location provides an idyllic setting for a romantic evening.
The restaurant's ambiance is enhanced by live music, creating a lively and enjoyable atmosphere. The menu boasts impressive culinary creations, with standout dishes like the pizza, expertly crafted by a talented chef. The combination of delicious food, scenic views, and a vibrant atmosphere makes this restaurant a must-visit.
TOPICS
- Waterfront
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Dinner
- Celebrations
27. Kanpai Izakaya
Experience authentic Japanese flavors in a cozy izakaya setting.

The calamari is a standout dish, offering a delightful balance of textures. Tender on the inside and crispy on the outside, the calamari is perfectly seasoned, making it an absolute must-try.
The calamari is a true highlight, impressing with its crisp exterior and perfectly balanced seasoning. Its tender interior provides a satisfying contrast, making it a dish that will leave a lasting impression.
TOPICS
- Personal Celebrations
- Fusion Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
- Rooftop
- Dinner
28. Lowcountry Milwaukee

29. Onesto
Delicious Italian cuisine with a focus on fresh ingredients and classic recipes.

The lobster ravioli was underwhelming, tasting as if it had been procured from a frozen food aisle. The calamari appetizer, while satisfactory, lacked any remarkable qualities.
The sautéed calamari offered a satisfyingly flavorful sauce, which paired well with the accompanying bread for soaking up the excess.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Downtown Spots
- Lunch
- Mid-Range
30. Screaming Tuna Milwaukee
Fresh sushi and seafood served with a unique twist every time.

The calamari is a standout appetizer, boasting a delightful crispness and a satisfying flavor profile. Its quality shines through, making it a must-try for any visitor.
The calamari is an absolute delight, its crispy texture and flavorful preparation making it a heavenly culinary experience. Don't miss out on this exceptional appetizer.
TOPICS
- Holiday Celebrations
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Mid-Range
- Waterfront
- Dinner
31. Avli Milwaukee
