The Absolute Best Calamari in Dallas [Updated 2025]

You know that feeling when you take a bite of something so delicious that it instantly transports you to a sunny seaside café? That’s exactly what I chase every time I dive into a plate of calamari. After devouring countless plates across the city and honing my taste buds to perfection, I’ve narrowed it down to the top ten places that truly stand out.

Each spot brings its own unique twist to this classic dish, and trust me, I’ve meticulously sampled everything—from the crispy to the tender, the traditional to the innovative. So whether you're a calamari connoisseur or just looking for a new favorite, you’re in for a tasty adventure as we explore the best Dallas has to offer!

La Stella Cucina Verace

Highlights
Unforgettable dining experience
Great family-style portions
Romantic ambiance with live piano
Seasonal dishes highly recommended
Impeccable service by Adam

La Stella Cucina Verace is a hidden gem that brings a delightful touch of Italy to Dallas, particularly when it comes to their calamari. From the moment I entered, the romantic ambiance, enhanced by the soothing sounds of a live piano, swept me off my feet, preparing me for a culinary experience like no other.

As I indulged in their calamari, I was immediately struck by the perfectly golden-brown rings, glistening with a hint of olive oil. The seasoning was a masterclass in balance—not too heavy, yet bursting with flavor that danced harmoniously on my palate. Paired with a zesty marinara, each bite was an invitation to savor the moment.

What truly stood out was the generous family-style portion, making it an ideal sharing dish—or, as I prefer, a delightful solo feast! My server, Adam, couldn’t have been more attentive, guiding me through a menu that showcases seasonal dishes that are equally enticing.

If you're in search of the best calamari in Dallas, La Stella Cucina Verace deserves a spot on your must-visit list. Each dish is a joyous celebration of taste that you won’t soon forget—buon appetito!

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The Woolworth

Highlights
Beautiful setting
Exceptional staff and service
Phenomenal food
Perfect for special occasions
Inviting and warm atmosphere

Visiting The Woolworth was an absolute delight! From the moment I walked in, the inviting and warm atmosphere embraced me like an old friend. The stunning decor and lively ambiance set the perfect stage for an unforgettable dining experience.

Now, let's talk about the star of the show: the calamari. These little rings of joy were perfectly crisp and beautifully presented. They had just the right amount of seasoning, giving them a delightful kick without overwhelming the palate. As I dipped them in the accompanying sauce, I was enveloped in a medley of flavors that complimented the calamari splendidly.

The staff at The Woolworth was exceptional, offering attentive service while maintaining a relaxed vibe. It felt as though they genuinely wanted my experience to be memorable, almost like sharing a cherished secret about their beloved calamari.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself, I wholeheartedly recommend The Woolworth for its phenomenal food and a dining experience that's both fun and sophisticated. Do yourself a favor and give their calamari a try – you won’t regret it!

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Enoteca Italia

Highlights
Hidden gem in Dallas
Fresh and tasty food
Outstanding attentive service
Beautiful decor
Perfect for special occasions

Enoteca Italia is a delightful hidden gem in Dallas that has captured my heart, particularly when it comes to their calamari. From the moment I walked through the doors, the beautiful decor and warm ambiance wrapped around me like a cozy Italian embrace.

I had my expectations set high, and let me tell you, the calamari did not disappoint. These tender rings were perfectly fried, achieving that glorious golden-brown hue that makes your mouth water in anticipation. Each bite was an explosion of flavor, with the freshness really shining through. The seasoning was spot-on—not too overpowering—allowing the natural taste of the squid to take center stage.

The attentive service at Enoteca Italia was another highlight of my visit. The staff was friendly and knowledgeable, eager to enhance my dining experience without being overbearing. Whether you’re planning a cozy date night or a special occasion, this place is an absolute treat. I can confidently say that if you’re on a mission to find the best calamari in Dallas, Enoteca Italia should be at the top of your list!

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Taverna

Highlights
Great brunch experience
Friendly and sweet staff
Enjoyable patio atmosphere
Reasonably priced menu items
Valet parking challenges

Taverna has quite a reputation for its delightful calamari, and after my recent visit, I can clearly see why. Nestled in a bustling area, it boasts a charming patio that sets the perfect ambiance for a leisurely brunch. As I settled into my seat, I was greeted by the friendly and sweet staff, who immediately made me feel welcome.

Now, let’s talk about the star of the show: the calamari. The dish arrived perfectly golden and crispy, just as calamari should be. Each bite was a harmonious blend of tenderness and crunch, beautifully complemented by a zesty marinara that made it irresistibly addictive. It’s easy to see why this dish is beloved by many.

While enjoying my meal, I couldn't help but appreciate the reasonably priced menu items, allowing for a guilt-free indulgence. The only hiccup? The valet parking situation can be a bit tricky, but I found it worth navigating for the splendid experience.

In the end, Taverna’s calamari is a must-try for anyone looking to tickle their taste buds. If you find yourself in Dallas, don’t miss out on this delightful gem!

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Sassetta

Highlights
Exceptional staff service
Quick seating on weekends
Lobster spaghetti praised
Delicious tiramisu
Mixed reviews on food quality

When I stepped into Sassetta, the inviting ambiance and the aroma wafting from the kitchen immediately caught my attention. The exceptional staff service made me feel right at home, and I was pleasantly surprised by the quick seating despite it being a bustling weekend.

Now, let's get to the star of the show: the calamari! Tender and perfectly cooked, their calamari is heavenly; lightly breaded to achieve a delightful crisp without overshadowing the natural flavor of the squid. Each bite is accompanied by a zesty dipping sauce that elevates the dish even further. It’s the perfect appetizer to share—or keep all to yourself!

While I also enjoyed the lobster spaghetti and couldn't resist finishing off with their divine tiramisu, the calamari is the true standout. I found a few mixed reviews regarding the overall food quality, but in my experience, this dish is the real deal. If you’re a calamari aficionado in Dallas, Sassetta deserves a spot on your culinary bucket list. Remember: great finds often lie within unexpected places, and Sassetta is one of those gems!

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The Charles

Highlights
Exceptional Food Quality
Warm and Chic Ambience
Outstanding Service by Declan
Perfect for Romantic Evenings
Beautifully Presented Dishes

Nestled in the vibrant atmosphere of Dallas, The Charles offers an exceptional dining experience that had me captivated from the moment I stepped inside. The ambiance is warm and chic, perfect for a romantic evening or a fun night out with friends. Now, onto the star of the show: the calamari!

When I took my first bite of the calamari, I was greeted by a delightful crunch that gave way to tender, perfectly cooked seafood. It was beautifully presented, served with a zesty aioli that added just the right kick. Each piece felt like a miniature celebration of flavor, allowing both the taste and the texture to shine through harmoniously.

Adding to the charm, the service was impeccable, with Declan, our server, being attentive without being intrusive—he definitely knew his way around the menu and made some fantastic recommendations.

If you’re searching for calamari that elevates the standard and transforms a casual dish into an artful experience, look no further than The Charles. They’ve truly redefined what calamari should be, making it an absolute must-try in the heart of Dallas!

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The Hampton Social - Dallas

Highlights
Open and airy atmosphere
Gorgeous patio available
Friendly and attentive service
Undisclosed additional charges
Issues with food quality

The moment I stepped into The Hampton Social - Dallas, I was greeted by an open and airy atmosphere that instantly felt inviting. The sun-soaked patio beckoned me, promising a delightful afternoon. With a cocktail in hand, I was thrilled to finally taste their highly touted calamari.

The presentation was lovely; crispy yet delicate, the calamari had a beautiful golden hue. However, while the flavors danced tantalizingly on my palate, there were indeed some issues with food quality that I noted. The accompanying sauce felt a tad lackluster, and there were hidden undisclosed additional charges that caught me off guard. Yet, the friendly and attentive service made the experience enjoyable, as our server was more than eager to accommodate any requests.

Even though the calamari had its quirks, the warm ambiance and vibrant setting made me want to indulge more. I left The Hampton Social with the hopes of them enhancing their offerings. If you find yourself in Dallas seeking a lively spot for calamari, this place might just tickle your taste buds, even with a few bumps along the way!

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Terilli's Restaurant

I recently dived into the delightful world of calamari at Terilli's Restaurant, and what a culinary adventure it was! The calamari arrived perfectly golden-brown, offering a tantalizing crunch with every bite. Dipped in their signature marinara, the flavors danced playfully on my palate, enhanced by a hint of fresh herbs. What truly stood out was the freshness of the squid; it was clear they source their ingredients thoughtfully. Terilli's creates a warm, inviting atmosphere that perfectly complements their delectable offerings. If you're on a quest for top-notch calamari in Dallas, Terilli’s is a must-try destination!

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Ravenna Italian Grille & Bar

As I stepped into Ravenna Italian Grille & Bar, the warm ambiance set the stage for a culinary adventure. Their calamari, expertly fried to a golden crisp, offered a delightful crunch that paired beautifully with the zesty marinara for dipping. Each bite was tender and perfectly seasoned, evoking a blissful harmony of flavors. The generous portion size ensured I was thoroughly satisfied, and I couldn't resist savoring every piece. If you're on the hunt for mouthwatering calamari in Dallas, Ravenna is a must-visit. It's a delightful blend of flavor and charm that keeps you coming back for more!

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Avanti Restaurant

At Avanti Restaurant, I was greeted by a delightful twist on the classic calamari. These were not just any squid strips; they were tender and coated in a light, crispy batter that brought out an irresistible crunch. Paired with a zesty marinara sauce, every bite felt like a masterpiece! The subtle hints of herbs and spices elevated the dish further, making it a must-try for calamari enthusiasts. If you're in Dallas, you simply can't miss this culinary gem! Trust me; it’s a journey for your taste buds that you won’t want to end.

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