PHILADELPHIA – In Philadelphia’s vibrant and diverse culinary scene, a perfectly prepared plate of calamari is a beloved appetizer that bridges the gap between casual pub fare and sophisticated fine dining. From classic, crispy fried rings served with zesty marinara to tender, charcoal-grilled preparations and inventive salads, the city’s restaurants offer a fantastic array of this delicious seafood. This expert guide, based on deep local knowledge and extensive reviews, will lead you to five of the best and most essential spots in Philadelphia to satisfy your calamari cravings.
Philadelphia’s Calamari Quest: A Guide to the City’s 5 Best Squid Dishes
1. Estia (Center City)
The Vibe: An elegant and transportive Greek restaurant, Estia is a premier destination for authentic Mediterranean seafood. The atmosphere is upscale and perfect for a special occasion, making you feel as though you’ve been whisked away to a fine dining taverna on a Greek island.
The Calamari: While their charcoal-grilled octopus is legendary, Estia also serves a fantastic Fried Calamari (Kalamarakia Tiganita). Expect fresh, tender squid, perfectly fried and served with a spicy marinara sauce and fresh lemon. For a unique taste, they also sometimes offer a calamari stuffed with a trio of Greek cheeses.
Location: 1405-07 Locust St, Philadelphia, PA 19102
2. Dante & Luigi’s Corona di Ferro (South Philadelphia)
The Vibe: As one of Philadelphia’s oldest and most historic Italian restaurants (established in 1899), Dante & Luigi’s offers a true old-world dining experience. The atmosphere is charming and classic, set in the heart of the Italian Market district.
The Calamari: This is the place for a truly unique and hearty preparation: the Stuffed Whole Calamari. Their version comes stuffed with a delicious crabmeat filling and is sautéed in a rich marinara seafood sauce, offering a much more substantial and flavorful dish than typical fried rings.
Location: 762 S 10th St, Philadelphia, PA 19147
3. The Continental Mid-town (Rittenhouse Square)
The Vibe: A stylish and energetic multi-level restaurant and bar, The Continental Mid-town is known for its retro-modern decor, lively atmosphere, and creative, globally-inspired menu. Its rooftop patio is a particularly popular spot.
The Calamari: The Crispy Calamari Salad is an iconic and must-try dish. This massive, shareable salad features a mountain of lightly breaded and perfectly fried calamari served over fresh greens with a sweet and savory miso dressing. It’s a unique and delicious fusion of flavors and textures.
Location: 1801 Chestnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19103
4. Giorgio on Pine (Center City)
The Vibe: A charming and romantic neighborhood BYOB, Giorgio on Pine is a beloved spot for authentic and well-prepared Italian cuisine. It’s a cozy and intimate setting perfect for a date night.
The Calamari: They offer a fantastic Sautéed Calamari that stands out from the usual fried preparations. The dish features tender calamari and baby shrimp served over a bed of arugula with cannellini beans and a bright lemon wedge, creating a light, fresh, and flavorful appetizer.
Location: 1334 Pine St, Philadelphia, PA 19107
5. Anastasi Seafood (South Philadelphia)
The Vibe: A cornerstone of the bustling Italian Market, Anastasi Seafood is a family-owned fish market and restaurant serving up incredibly fresh seafood. The vibe is a perfect blend of a casual neighborhood eatery and a high-quality seafood market.
The Calamari: You can’t get much fresher than this. Anastasi offers a classic and delicious Fried Calamari, lightly battered and fried to perfection. It’s a simple, perfectly executed version that showcases the quality of the squid.
Location: 1101 S 9th St, Philadelphia, PA 19147Before You Go: Restaurant hours and menu specials can change seasonally. To ensure the best experience, please check the restaurant’s website or call ahead to confirm that they are open and that the dishes mentioned in this article are still available.Before You Go: Restaurant hours and menu specials can change seasonally. To ensure the best experience, please check the restaurant’s website or call ahead to confirm that they are open and that the dishes mentioned in this article are still available.
Before You Go: Restaurant hours and menu specials can change seasonally. To ensure the best experience, please check the restaurant’s website or call ahead to confirm that they are open and that the dishes mentioned in this article are still available.
Dining and Cooking