Top 34 calamari in Buffalo
Calamari in Buffalo is a popular dish that showcases tender, breaded and fried squid served in the vibrant city of Buffalo, New York. This culinary delight combines the delicate seafood flavor of calamari with a crispy coating, typically enjoyed as an appetizer or a shareable plate in local restaurants. Explore the unique taste of calamari in Buffalo and indulge in a delicious fusion of flavors.
- 1. Chef's Restaurant
- 2. Tappo Restaurant
- 3. Osteria 166
- 4. The Grotto
- 5. Ristorante Lombardo
- 6. Blue Cave Italian Restaurant
- 7. The Left Bank
- 8. Sinatra's
- 9. Liberty Hound
- 10. Frankie Primo's +39
- 11. Faso's Restaurant
- 12. Shango New Orleans Bistro & Wine Bar
- 13. Marco's Italian Restaurant
- 14. JT’s Restaurant
- 15. Giacobbi's Cucina Citta
- 16. Kostas Family Restaurant
- 17. Bacchus Wine Bar & Restaurant
- 18. Cole's
- 19. The Place
- 20. Hutch's
- 21. Mothers Restaurant
- 22. Panorama on Seven
- 23. The Terrace at Delaware Park
- 24. Sun Cuisines
- 25. Bailey Seafood
- 26. CRaVing Restaurant
- 27. Venus Greek & Mediterránean
- 28. Gigi's Cucina Povera
- 29. Eckl's
- 30. The Phoenix at 269
- 31. Kuni's
- 32. Wasabi Japanese Restaurant
- 33. SZND
- 34. Rolack Seafood
1. Chef's Restaurant
Family-owned restaurant since 1923, cash-only policy

The Great Calamari and Italian dishes at this establishment are standouts. The veal parm and spaghetti parm are delicious and offered at affordable prices. It's worth noting that the sauce is so good, I brought bottles of it home. The wait staff is a highlight, known for their attentiveness and friendly demeanor, making the dining experience even more enjoyable.
In summary, for excellent Italian cuisine and exceptional service, this restaurant delivers. The Great Calamari is a must-try, and the veal and spaghetti parm are both highly recommended. Don't forget to try the sauce, which is so delicious that you'll want to take some home. The wait staff's attentiveness and friendliness make for a welcoming and enjoyable atmosphere.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Corporate Events
- Italian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
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2. Tappo Restaurant
Features a cozy and intimate atmosphere with a focus on Southern Italian cuisine and a wide selection of wines.

The calamari dish served was not enjoyed by the diners as it was tough to chew and lacked the expected taste. The eggplant parmigiana also faced criticism among the dishes served.
The texture of the calamari was not ideal, being described as chewy and not delivering the desired flavor. Unfortunately, the eggplant parmigiana also failed to meet expectations, receiving negative feedback.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Italian Cuisine
- Mid-Range
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3. Osteria 166
Cozy environment with excellent staff hospitality

TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Dinner
- Corporate Events
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4. The Grotto
Cozy atmosphere, Casual dining, Friendly service

The calamari served at The Grotto is a standout dish. It was cooked to perfection, with a texture that was tender and not rubbery. The seasoning was well-balanced and elevated the flavor of the calamari. It is highly recommended and a must-try for anyone visiting the restaurant.
If you are a fan of calamari, then The Grotto is the place to go. Their calamari is some of the best I have ever had. The quality of the dish was exceptional, with a perfect balance of flavor and texture. I would highly recommend giving it a try on your next visit to the restaurant.
TOPICS
- Downtown Spots
- Happy Hours
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5. Ristorante Lombardo
Family-owned since 1954, upscale Italian atmosphere

The calamari appetizer was a standout dish during the meal. Its perfect crispy exterior and tender interior made it a delight to eat. This dish is highly recommended for those who enjoy calamari, as it was fresh and had an appealing crunch to every bite.
Overall, the calamari appetizer was a success. Its crispy and tender texture, along with its freshness, made it a memorable dish. Diners who are looking for a delicious calamari dish should definitely consider trying this one.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
- Dinner
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6. Blue Cave Italian Restaurant
Family-owned and operated since 1996, offering a cozy and romantic atmosphere

The calamari dish was a standout offering, with a delightful texture that was both crispy and tender. The perfectly cooked seafood was elevated to new heights by an exceptional dipping sauce, which provided a burst of flavor with every bite. This appetizer is sure to satisfy any seafood lover.
High-quality seasoning and cooking techniques were used to prepare the calamari, resulting in a truly memorable dining experience. The dish was perfectly seasoned, enhancing the natural flavors of the calamari without overpowering them. This must-try appetizer is a testament to the outstanding culinary skills of the chef.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Mid-Range
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7. The Left Bank
Cozy atmosphere, friendly service, and a great wine list

Both statements rave about the fried calamari at The Left Bank. The first review describes the dish as amazing, while the second review calls it a must-try. Both reviews highlight the calamari's crispy texture and delicious taste. The first review specifically recommends trying the dish, while the second review implies that it is a standout item on the menu.
If you're looking for a delicious appetizer to try at The Left Bank, both reviewers agree that the fried calamari is an excellent choice. With its perfectly crispy exterior and delicious flavor, it is a standout dish that is sure to satisfy. Whether you're a seafood lover or just looking to try something new, the fried calamari at The Left Bank is a can't-miss dish.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Fusion Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
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8. Sinatra's
Live Music on Weekends, Wine Happy Hour, Patio Dining

The calamari is a standout choice for an appetizer, and it should not be missed. It is prepared in a unique way, without being fried, which sets it apart from traditional calamari dishes. The spice level is perfect, adding a kick of flavor without being overwhelming. This was evident in the calamari appetizer I ordered, which was cooked without breading and served with a spicy sauce. The taste was exceptional, making it a memorable start to the meal.
In summary, the calamari is a must-try for anyone seeking an appetizer that is flavorful and prepared differently. Its unique cooking method, without frying, and the right amount of spice make it a delicious choice. My personal experience with the dish was positive, as the unfried calamari with spicy sauce was a tasty start to the meal.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Dinner
- High-End
- Downtown Spots
9. Liberty Hound
Located at the Buffalo Naval Park with outdoor seating

The calamari dish at Liberty Hound is highly recommended, renowned for its excellent preparation and generous portion size. The fried calamari stands out, featuring a crispy exterior and a tender, well-seasoned interior that leaves a lasting impression.
Diners rave about Liberty Hound's calamari, which consistently meets high expectations. The perfectly cooked and seasoned dish offers a delightful contrast between its crispy exterior and tender, flavorful meat, making it a must-try for any seafood lover.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Waterfront
- Dinner
10. Frankie Primo's +39
Vibrant atmosphere, extensive wine list, and homemade mozzarella.

The fried calamari appetizer received high praise for its exceptional flavor and quality. It was described as being perfectly seasoned, with a texture that was tender and delightful. The calamari stood out as a memorable dish, drawing positive attention from those who tried it. Its freshness was evident in each bite, and the skillful cooking technique ensured a perfectly prepared dish.
Overall, the calamari was a clear favorite, highly recommended due to its exceptional taste and quality. Its freshness was a key factor in its success, and the cooking method resulted in a tender and enjoyable texture. Those who had the opportunity to taste the calamari were certainly not disappointed and appreciated the dish's standout qualities.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Celebrations
- Downtown Spots
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11. Faso's Restaurant
Family-owned restaurant serving authentic Italian-American cuisine since 1968.

The calamari we ordered did not meet expectations. It had the taste and texture of being previously frozen, with perfectly circular, hard rings that were difficult to chew. This was disappointing because high-quality calamari should not have a uniform shape, as if made by a machine, and it should not be tough.
Clearly, the calamari was not fresh or prepared properly. Fresh calamari should be tender, with an irregular shape and a flavor that is not masked by being frozen. The tough texture and unappetizing taste of this dish suggest that it was not prepared with care and attention to detail. The establishment should consider improving their calamari preparation and sourcing to ensure that it meets the standards of their diners.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
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12. Shango New Orleans Bistro & Wine Bar
Live music on weekends and happy hour specials

Restaurants offer a variety of dishes, including calamari, fried chicken, and bouillabaisse. The calamari stands out as a delicious option, with its crispy exterior and fresh taste. The dish is served with unique dipping sauces that complement its flavor.
Fried chicken and bouillabaisse are also on the menu. The fried chicken is perfectly cooked with a crispy coating, while the bouillabaisse is a flavorful seafood stew. Whether you're in the mood for seafood, poultry, or something in between, there's something for everyone at these establishments. The quality of the food is consistently high, making it a great choice for a satisfying meal.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mexican Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
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13. Marco's Italian Restaurant
Family-owned restaurant serving authentic Italian cuisine since 1978.

The calamari served at this establishment is expertly prepared, with a crispy exterior and tender, well-cooked interior. Its freshness enhances the overall taste, and the marinara sauce that accompanies it is exceptional. It is a highly recommended dish for anyone who visits.
Marco's is known for serving delicious calamari that is always fresh and never greasy. Each order is cooked to perfection, creating a satisfying crunch while maintaining tenderness on the inside. The accompanying marinara sauce complements the dish well, providing a well-rounded and tasty experience for diners. The excellence of Marco's calamari makes it a must-try.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
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14. JT’s Restaurant
Features a cozy and relaxed atmosphere with outdoor seating and live music on weekends

The fried calamari was a standout dish, with its crispy exterior and delicious flavor. The dish was skillfully prepared, resulting in a perfectly cooked dish that was a delight to eat.
The calamari was seasoned to perfection, adding an extra layer of flavor that made it even more enjoyable. Whether you're a fan of seafood or just looking to try something new, the fried calamari is a must-try dish that is sure to impress.
TOPICS
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
- Hidden Gems
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15. Giacobbi's Cucina Citta
Family-owned Italian restaurant with a cozy atmosphere

The calamari dish stood out in the meal, but opinions differed on its execution. For some, it was cooked to perfection, with the seasoning adding to its delicious taste. This made for a memorable calamari experience in Buffalo. On the other hand, others found the calamari to be slightly overcooked, which affected its texture. However, the flavor was still enjoyable despite the overcooking.
In summary, the calamari dish was a hit with its good flavor, but its texture was a point of contention. Some guests found it cooked just right, while others thought it was a bit overcooked. Regardless, the calamari left an impression, making it a notable dish in the Buffalo dining scene.
TOPICS
- Celebrations
- Italian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
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16. Kostas Family Restaurant
Family-owned restaurant serving authentic Greek and Italian cuisine for over 25 years.

The calamari, a popular seafood dish, received mixed reviews. One opinion found the calamari to be slightly tough, perhaps overcooked, which detracted from the overall dining experience. However, the same dish was praised in another evaluation, highlighting its crispy texture and delightful flavor. The calamari's taste was enjoyed in both instances, indicating a successful seasoning and preparation process.
A shared positive aspect of the calamari was its flavor, which was appealing and enjoyable. Furthermore, an additional element of enjoyment was contributed by a dipping sauce in one evaluation, enhancing the taste and dining experience. The dipping sauce added an extra layer of flavor, complementing the calamari perfectly and resulting in a satisfying seafood meal.
TOPICS
- Indian Cuisine
- Chinese Cuisine
- Fusion Cuisine
- Asian Cuisine
- American Cuisine
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Italian Cuisine
- Mexican Cuisine
- Gluten-Free
- Vegetarian Options
- Vegan Options
- Kosher Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- High-End
- Cheap Eats
- Affordable Nightlife
- Free Events
- Happy Hours
- Mid-Range
- Waterfront
- Rooftop
- Downtown Spots
- Hidden Gems
- Suburban
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Late Night
- Seasonal Times
- Weekend Dining
17. Bacchus Wine Bar & Restaurant
Wide selection of wines and a cozy, intimate atmosphere

Customers frequently enjoy a variety of dishes at a certain establishment, including Crescent Long Island Duck Breast, Shrimp Crusted Swordfish, Calamari & Rock Shrimp Gnocchi, Mac and Cheese, Pecan Crusted Salmon, Seared Duck Breast, Jameson Tiramisu, Roasted Chicken, Seared Ahi Tuna, and Creme Brûlée. The dining experience begins with a glass of Pinot noir and bread with oil, followed by a shared appetizer of BT salad, tuna tartar, and calamari, all of which are highly praised for their taste.
Entrees at this establishment are equally impressive, with the duck cooked to perfection and the Bouillabaisse receiving positive feedback for its taste. The Seared Ahi Tuna is also a hit, while the Swordfish is described as slightly overcooked, but still enjoyable when paired with the risotto. Overall, the dishes offered by this establishment are well-loved and memorable, creating a satisfying dining experience for all patrons.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Corporate Events
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Dinner
18. Cole's
Live music on weekends and extensive gluten-free options.

The calamari stands out as a notable dish, with its preparation and seasoning done to perfection. Food enthusiasts should not miss the opportunity to savor this exquisite delight. However, there seems to be a discrepancy in opinions regarding the calamari's texture.
Some diners found the calamari to be a bit tough or chewy, which affected their overall enjoyment of the dish. Despite the excellent cooking and seasoning, the texture fell short of expectations for certain individuals, leading to a less satisfying dining experience.
TOPICS
- Corporate Events
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Dinner
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19. The Place
Live music on weekends, sports bar, and dog-friendly patio

The calamari stood out as a memorable dish, with its impeccable cooking and seasoning. It was a definite highlight of the meal, making it a must-try for anyone who values delicious food. As an appetizer, the calamari impressed and set a high standard for the rest of the meal. Its excellent preparation created anticipation for the remaining courses.
The calamari, prepared as an appetizer, was a fantastic way to start the meal. Its delectable flavor and exquisite seasoning left a lasting impression. With its excellent cooking, the calamari promised a memorable dining experience. The moment set the tone for the rest of the meal, leaving diners eagerly anticipating the delights to come.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Celebrations
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
20. Hutch's
Family-owned and operated since 1953, neighborhood favorite

The restaurant offers an impressive selection of wine, perfect to pair with your meal. Our starting course, the calamari appetizer, was a hit. The dish featured calamari that was light, crisp, and tender, with a unique Thai flavor that added an exciting twist.
I have always been pleased with the entrees at this establishment. The calamari appetizer, in particular, stands out for its exceptional taste and texture. The Thai influence on the dish was a delightful surprise, adding a new dimension to the classic appetizer.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Celebrations
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
21. Mothers Restaurant
Hometstyle cooking with a focus on Italian cuisine

The calamari stands out as a delicious and crispy dish. Its perfectly cooked texture and seasoned flavor make it a must-try dish.
Crispy and delightful calamari is a recommended dish. Its preparation involves careful cooking and seasoning, resulting in an exquisite taste and texture.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Italian Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
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22. Panorama on Seven
Featuring local ingredients, craft beers, and a cozy atmosphere

The calamari dish I tried had a desirable texture, being perfectly cooked and having a crispy exterior. However, the flavor fell short a bit, as it seemed to lack sufficient seasoning.
Despite the room for improvement in terms of seasoning, the calamari's texture was commendable. Furthermore, the dipping sauce provided an excellent accompaniment, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
TOPICS
- Corporate Events
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
23. The Terrace at Delaware Park
Features a romantic and upscale atmosphere

The calamari dish was expertly prepared, with a cooking process that brought out its best qualities. It was adequately seasoned, adding the right amount of flavor to enhance its taste without overpowering it. The texture of the calamari was particularly noteworthy, as it was neither too chewy nor too soft and had a freshness that contributed to its overall enjoyment.
Freshness was a standout feature of the calamari, giving it a delightful taste and texture. Its preparation resulted in a perfect dish, with a texture that was just right, providing a satisfying and enjoyable experience for anyone who tried it. The calamari was a must-try dish due to its exceptional freshness, texture, and flavors that resulted from the skillful cooking and seasoning.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Waterfront
- Social Gatherings
- Vegetarian Options
24. Sun Cuisines
Extensive options for vegetarians, vegans, and gluten-free diners.
The calamari appetizer was a highlight of the meal, with its crispy exterior and tender interior showcasing a perfectly executed dish. A generously sized portion was presented, immediately setting a positive tone for the dining experience.
Accompanying the calamari was a tasty dipping sauce that enhanced the flavors of the fried squid. The seasoning was well-balanced, adding to the overall enjoyment of the dish and making it a must-try for any seafood lover.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Vegan Options
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25. Bailey Seafood
Family-owned and operated for over 30 years, using fresh ingredients and local seafood.
The calamari I ordered was delicious with a crispy texture that was not too greasy. The taste and quality of the calamari were excellent, with it being fresh and tender. However, the portion size of the calamari was a bit small, which left me slightly disappointed, given the price.
Overall, I enjoyed the calamari dish I tried due to its fresh and tender quality, as well as its crispy and ungreasy texture. Nonetheless, I felt that the portion size of the calamari could have been larger for the price. This minor issue did not completely ruin my dining experience but left room for improvement.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
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26. CRaVing Restaurant
Unique and flavorful dishes in a cozy atmosphere

The menu offered a limited selection, but still provided a variety of options to choose from. The fried dumplings were a tasty choice, and the portions of both the mussels and calamari were generous, making for a satisfying meal shared with friends.
The calamari was ordered as an appetizer and was a delicious choice. The salmon, which I ordered, was served with vegetables and a delightful sauce. Additionally, the fish stew was ordered and proved to be a yummy selection. All in all, the meal was enjoyable and the food was satisfying.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
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27. Venus Greek & Mediterránean
Family-owned restaurant since 1996, Authentic Greek cuisine

The calamari dish showcases excellent cooking and seasoning, making it a standout option. Its crispy texture and delicious taste are sure to please. The dipping sauce complements the calamari well, enhancing its flavor.
If you're looking for a must-try dish, the calamari is a top recommendation. Its crispy and appetizing nature, combined with a tasty dipping sauce, makes for a satisfying dining experience. This dish is a perfect example of well-prepared and flavorful cuisine.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Mid-Range
28. Gigi's Cucina Povera
Cozy atmosphere, Authentic Italian cuisine, Friendly service

The calamari appetizer was a hit at the meal. Its delicious taste and generous portion size were impressive. The dipping sauce complemented the calamari well. I also personally enjoyed the calamari, and it stood out as some of the best I have ever had. Its texture was well-prepared, and it was not too greasy.
In summary, the calamari appetizer was a success, offering a delightful taste and appropriate texture. The dipping sauce added to the overall flavor, and the portion size was enough to satisfy. As someone who appreciates calamari, I can attest to its high quality, especially given its lack of excessive grease.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Social Gatherings
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
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29. Eckl's
Family-owned and operated since 1946, serving classic American comfort food

The calamari appetizer had a pleasant flavor that was enjoyed by the individual who tried it. However, the texture was somewhat tough and chewy. Overall, the calamari was a tasty start to the meal.
Fried calamari was served as an appetizer, and it was exceptionally delicious. The exterior was crispy and well-cooked, while the inside remained tender. The calamari was not overly greasy, which added to its appeal.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
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30. The Phoenix at 269
cozy atmosphere, friendly service, and delicious food

The calamari dish was a standout, with its crispy texture and delicious flavor making a lasting impression. This was no ordinary calamari - it was cooked to perfection and well-seasoned, making it one of the best versions I've ever had. The quality of the dish was exceptional, and it's not an exaggeration to say that it's a must-try for anyone who enjoys calamari.
The dish's remarkable combination of crispness on the outside and tenderness on the inside made it a true delight. Furthermore, the seasoning was expertly done, enhancing the natural flavor of the calamari without overpowering it. Anyone who tries this calamari is sure to appreciate the care and attention that went into its preparation.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Lunch
- Dinner
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31. Kuni's
Kuni's is known for its extensive Japanese menu and unique decor.

The calamari dish at Kuni's was a highlight of the meal. Its crispy texture and delicious flavor were enjoyed by many, making it a popular choice. However, some individuals found the calamari to be a bit chewy.
Despite the slight issue with texture, the calamari's flavor was still a standout. The taste was spot on, satisfying calamari lovers with its accuracy. The combination of crispy texture and flavorful taste made the calamari a memorable dish, despite differing opinions on its chewiness.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Fusion Cuisine
- Dinner
- Downtown Spots
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32. Wasabi Japanese Restaurant
Authentic Japanese cuisine, unique dining experience, extensive menu, elegant atmosphere, and good for special occasions.

The calamari dish was a standout, with each piece perfectly crispy and tender on the outside, while remaining moist and flavorful on the inside. Its quality was evident, making it a clear must-try for anyone who tries this restaurant.
This calamari dish was exceptional, featuring fresh and high-quality ingredients that resulted in an excellent texture. Between the crispy exterior and the tender, delicate interior, each bite was a delight, making it a highly recommended dish that is not to be missed.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
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33. SZND
Wide selection of Asian dishes, vegetarian options, and cozy atmosphere

The Vietnamese Calamari was a remarkable dish that stood out in terms of its preparation and seasoning. The calamari was cooked to perfection, resulting in a delicious and satisfying meal. The texture of the calamari was crispy, while the flavor was fantastic and well-seasoned.
Overall, the Vietnamese Calamari was a hit, providing a great combination of crispy texture and delicious taste. The calamari was perfectly cooked, making it an enjoyable and satisfying dish that I would highly recommend to others.
TOPICS
- Dinner
- Downtown Spots
- Mid-Range
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34. Rolack Seafood
Family-owned and operated with a friendly and knowledgeable staff, offering a wide selection of fresh seafood at reasonable prices.

The calamari served at this establishment is expertly prepared and seasoned to perfection. It is a standout dish that should not be missed. At Rolack Seafood, the calamari is consistently delicious, with a tender texture and impressive flavor.
The calamari is a highlight of the menu at both locations. Its quality sets it apart from other calamari dishes, making it a must-try for seafood lovers. Whether you're dining at Rolack Seafood or another establishment, the calamari is sure to impress with its perfect cooking and seasoning.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
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