Food

Taste the Most Delectable Calamari at Boston’s 14 Best Restaurants

Boston is renowned for its seafood scene, boasting an array of delicious dishes that showcase the best the ocean has to offer. One particular standout among seafood lovers in the city is calamari.

Fried to golden perfection, tender and flavorful, calamari is a must-try dish for anyone visiting or living in Boston. Join us as we explore some of the best calamari in the city, from classic Italian preparations to innovative twists on this beloved dish.

Whether you prefer it as an appetizer or a main course, Boston has plenty of options to satisfy your calamari cravings. 

1. Rino’s Place

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Rino’s Place in Boston is a homey family-owned restaurant that is known for its delicious homemade pasta and Italian comfort-food favorites.

The restaurant has gained a reputation for serving some of the best calamari in the city. At Rino’s Place, the calamari is always fresh and perfectly cooked.

The crispy exterior gives way to tender, flavorful squid that is sure to please even the most discerning seafood lover.

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The dish is often served with a side of marinara sauce for dipping, adding an extra layer of flavor to the already delicious calamari. The atmosphere at Rino’s Place is warm and inviting, making it the perfect spot to enjoy a meal with family and friends.

The staff is friendly and attentive, ensuring that every guest has.

Rating: 9.2

Phone: +1 617-567-7412

Address: 258 Saratoga St, Boston, MA 02128, United States

Website: rinosplace.com 

2. Tresca

Tresca-1

Looking for the best calamari in Boston? Look no further than Tresca, a boisterous Tuscan-inspired restaurant known for its high-end Italian dishes.

The restaurant offers a variety of dishes, but their calamari is a standout favorite among customers. Tresca’s calamari is perfectly cooked, with a light and crispy batter that pairs perfectly with the tender squid.

The dish is served with a zesty marinara sauce on the side, adding a burst of flavor to each bite.

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The portion size is generous, making it perfect for sharing as an appetizer or enjoying as a main course. The atmosphere at Tresca is lively and inviting, with a warm and welcoming ambiance that sets the stage for a memorable dining experience.

Rating: 9.2

Phone: +1 617-742-8240

Address: 233 Hanover St, Boston, MA 02113, United States

Website: trescanorthend.com 

3. The Q

The-Q

Located in the heart of Boston, The Q is known for serving up some of the best calamari in the city.

This hip and airy eatery and lounge offers a unique dining experience with a menu that features Mongolian hot pots, sushi, and Chinese dishes. One of the standout dishes at The Q is their calamari, which is perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.

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The calamari is seasoned with a blend of spices that give it a flavorful kick, making it a favorite among diners. In addition to their delicious calamari, The Q also offers a variety of other dishes that are sure to satisfy any craving.

From their fresh sushi rolls to their savory Chinese dishes, there is something for everyone on the menu.

Rating: 9

Phone: +1 857-350-3968

Address: 660 Washington St, Boston, MA 02111, United States

Website: thequsa.com 

4. Prezza

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In the heart of Boston, Prezza offers a cozy ambiance perfect for those looking to enjoy upscale dining in a relaxed setting.

The restaurant prides itself on its modern interpretations of Italian peasant fare, showcasing the rich culinary traditions of Italy with a contemporary twist.

One of the standout dishes at Prezza is their calamari, which has earned a reputation as some of the best in Boston.

The calamari is expertly prepared, with a light and crispy coating that perfectly complements the tender pieces of squid.

Served with a tangy marinara sauce or a zesty aioli, the calamari at Prezza is a must-try for seafood lovers. In addition to their exceptional calamari, Prezza also offers a menu filled.

Rating: 9.2

Phone: +1 617-227-1577

Address: 24 Fleet St, Boston, MA 02113, United States

Website: prezza.com 

5. Ocean Prime

Ocean-Prime

If you’re looking for the best calamari in Boston, look no further than Ocean Prime.

This upscale chain is known for its sophisticated decor, extensive wine list, and classic steak and seafood menu. At Ocean Prime, the calamari is a standout dish that keeps customers coming back for more.

The calamari is perfectly cooked to a crispy golden brown, with just the right amount of seasoning to enhance the natural flavor of the squid.

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In addition to the delicious calamari, Ocean Prime offers a wide selection of other seafood options, such as fresh oysters, lobster tails, and seared ahi tuna.

The steak menu is equally impressive, with prime cuts of beef cooked to perfection. The upscale atmosphere at Ocean Prime makes it the perfect spot for.

Rating: 9.2

Phone: +1 617-670-1345

Address: 140 Seaport Blvd, Boston, MA 02210, United States

Website: ocean-prime.com 

6. Saltie Girl

Saltie-Girl

Saltie Girl in Boston is a charming raw bar that is known for serving the best calamari in the city.

The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, making it the perfect place to enjoy a delicious seafood meal. The menu at Saltie Girl features a variety of seafood dishes, including fresh oysters, lobster rolls, and of course, their famous calamari.

The calamari is perfectly cooked and seasoned with a light and crispy batter that is sure to satisfy your cravings. In addition to traditional seafood options, Saltie Girl also offers dishes made with tinned fish.

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These unique creations are a must-try for any seafood lover looking to try something new and exciting. The staff at Saltie Girl is friendly and knowledgeable and always willing to help you.

Rating: 8.8

Phone: +1 617-267-0691

Address: 279 Dartmouth St, Boston, MA 02116, United States

Website: saltiegirl.com 

7. La Summa

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Located in the heart of Boston, La Summa is a humble find known for its delicious homemade pasta, chicken Parmesan, and other Italian classics.

The cozy and inviting space of the restaurant adds to its charm, making it a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. When it comes to calamari, La Summa is known for serving some of the best in Boston.

The calamari is perfectly cooked, with a light and crispy batter that pairs perfectly with the tender squid.

Served with a side of marinara sauce or aioli, it is a must-try dish for seafood lovers. The menu at La Summa is filled with traditional Italian dishes that are made with love and care. From hearty lasagna to mouthwatering ris.

Rating: 9

Phone: +1 617-523-9503

Address: 30 Fleet St, Boston, MA 02113, United States

Website: lasumma.com 

8. Ostra

Ostra-1

Located in the heart of Boston, Ostra is a sophisticated venue that offers a unique dining experience.

The restaurant is known for its fish-focused Mediterranean fare, making it a go-to spot for seafood lovers in the city. When it comes to calamari, Ostra is renowned for serving some of the best in Boston.

The calamari is perfectly cooked, with a crispy exterior and tender interior.

The dish is served with a delicious dipping sauce that perfectly complements the flavors of the calamari. In addition to their exceptional calamari, Ostra offers a wide range of seafood dishes that are sure to satisfy even the most discerning palates.

From fresh oysters to whole grilled fish, the menu is filled with options that highlight the flavors of the.

Rating: 9.4

Phone: +1 617-421-1200

Address: 1 Charles St S, Boston, MA 02116, United States

Website: ostraboston.com 

9. Il Molo

Il-Molo

In the heart of Boston, Il Molo offers a cozy and inviting atmosphere that is perfect for enjoying a delicious meal.

The aquatic-inspired dining room sets the perfect ambiance for indulging in some of the best calamari in the city. Il Molo prides itself on serving elegant yet accessible Italian seafood plates with a focus on quality and flavor.

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The calamari at Il Molo is a standout dish featuring tender and crispy rings that are perfectly seasoned and cooked to perfection. The chefs at Il Molo are experts in preparing seafood dishes, ensuring that each bite is bursting with fresh flavors and textures.

Whether you prefer your calamari fried or grilled, Il Molo has a dish that will satisfy your cravings. Pair your calamari.

Rating: 9

Phone: +1 857-277-1895

Address: 326 Commercial Street, Boston, MA 02109, United States

Website: ilmoloboston.com 

10. Neptune Oyster

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Located in the heart of Boston, Neptune Oyster is a small but highly acclaimed oyster bar that draws in crowds with its delectable offerings. The restaurant is known for its raw bar, where customers can indulge in a variety of fresh seafood options.

From oysters to clams to shrimp, Neptune Oyster has something for every seafood lover. One of the standout dishes at Neptune Oyster is their warm, buttered lobster rolls.

Served on a toasted bun and generously filled with succulent lobster meat, these rolls are a must-try for anyone visiting the restaurant.

The buttery goodness of the lobster combined with the crispiness of the bun is a match made in heaven. The calamari at Neptune Oyster is another dish that has.

Rating: 8.8

Phone: +1 617-742-3474

Address: 63 Salem St # 1, Boston, MA 02113, United States

Website: neptuneoyster.com 

11. Mario’s Restaurant

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When looking for the best calamari in Boston, look no further than Mario’s Restaurant. This charming eatery is known for its delicious Italian comfort food, including lasagna, meatballs, and tiramisu.

Located in casual, traditional quarters, Mario’s Restaurant offers a cozy and inviting atmosphere perfect for enjoying a leisurely meal.

The menu is full of classic Italian dishes made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. One standout dish at Mario’s Restaurant is the calamari.

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Crispy and tender, it is served with a zesty marinara sauce that perfectly complements the flavors of the seafood. In addition to the calamari, guests can also enjoy other Italian favorites such as lasagna and meatballs. The lasagna is rich.

Rating: 9.6

Phone: +1 617-567-8608

Address: 347 Chelsea St, Boston, MA 02128, United States

Website: marioseastboston.com 

12. Mamma Maria

Mamma-Maria

In the heart of Boston’s North End, Mamma Maria is a charming restaurant known for its refined Italian menu. The restaurant is housed in a historic townhouse, adding to its romantic ambiance and old-world charm.

Mamma Maria places a strong emphasis on using locally sourced ingredients in their dishes, ensuring freshness and quality in every bite.

The menu is carefully curated to showcase traditional Italian flavors with a modern twist, creating a dining experience that is both familiar and innovative.

Mamma-Maria-1

One of the standout dishes at Mamma Maria is their calamari, which is expertly prepared and perfectly cooked.

The calamari is tender and flavorful, with a light and crispy coating that is not greasy. Served with a tangy marinara sauce.

Rating: 9.4

Phone: +1 617-523-0077

Address: 3 N Square, Boston, MA 02113, United States

Website: mammamaria.com 

13. Aqua Pazza

Aqua-Pazza

Aqua Pazza is a charming neighborhood hideaway located in Boston that specializes in serving cuisine-jumping Mediterranean small plates.

The cozy atmosphere and friendly staff make it a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. One of the standout dishes at Aqua Pazza is their calamari. The calamari is perfectly cooked, with a light and crispy batter that is seasoned to perfection.

The dish is served with a side of tangy marinara sauce that complements the tender calamari perfectly. The calamari at Aqua Pazza is known for being some of the best in Boston.

The freshness of the seafood and the skillful preparation make it a must-try dish for anyone dining at the restaurant. Whether you are a calamari connoisseur or just looking.

Rating: 9

Phone: +1 857-350-3105

Address: 135 Richmond St, Boston, MA 02109, United States

Website: aquapazza-boston.com 

14. Carmelina’s

Carmelinas

Carmelina’s in Boston is a must-visit destination for those looking for the best calamari in the city. This open-air restaurant offers a unique dining experience with a modern twist on classic Italian dishes.

One of the standout dishes at Carmelina’s is their calamari, which is known for being tender, flavorful, and perfectly cooked. The calamari is lightly breaded and fried to perfection, creating a crispy exterior while maintaining a soft and tender interior.

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The portion sizes at Carmelina’s are generous, ensuring that you’ll leave feeling satisfied and full. The calamari is served with a side of marinara sauce for dipping, adding an extra layer of flavor to each bite. In addition to their delicious calam.

Rating: 9.2

Phone: +1 617-742-0020

Address: 307 Hanover St, Boston, MA 02113, United States

Website: carmelinasboston.com 

Conclusion

Boston offers a wide variety of delicious calamari options, but after thorough research and consideration, it is clear that the best calamari in the city can be found.

With its perfectly crisp coating, tender texture, and flavorful seasoning, this dish stands out as a top choice for calamari enthusiasts in Boston.

Ultimately, for those looking to experience the finest calamari in the city, a visit to is highly recommended.

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Timothy Russell Dewart

Introducing your seasoned tour guide in Boston, Massachusetts, and your go-to expert for all things hospitality! With a deep-rooted passion for this historic city, I not only offer captivating tours that delve into Boston's past and present but also serve as your trusted advisor when it comes to hotels and restaurants. From cozy boutique inns to fine dining establishments and local hidden gems, I have the inside scoop on the best places to stay and dine in Boston. Let me elevate your visit, ensuring you experience the city's culture, history, and culinary delights to the fullest. LinkedIn

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