Long Beach, California, boasts a vibrant culinary scene, and among its many treasures is a surprisingly diverse selection of calamari. From classic, crispy fried rings to innovative preparations, Long Beach offers a calamari experience for every palate. This comprehensive guide dives deep into the best 30 spots serving up this delicious seafood, categorized for easier navigation and featuring insights into what makes each location special.
Top 10 Classic Calamari Experiences in Long Beach
These establishments offer traditional fried calamari, focusing on crispiness, tenderness, and that perfect balance of flavor.
-
The Pike Long Beach: A landmark location with stunning ocean views, The Pike's calamari is a must-try. Their version features perfectly golden-brown, tender rings served with a tangy marinara sauce. Expect a crowd, especially on weekends.
-
Acapulco Restaurant: This family-owned gem offers generous portions of their calamari, known for its light and airy batter. The marinara sauce is homemade, adding a touch of authentic Mexican flair. Try their shrimp cocktail while you're there!
-
Beachwood Cafe: Nestled in a charming neighborhood, Beachwood Cafe's calamari stands out with its exceptionally fresh ingredients and a subtle, flavorful batter. They often use seasonal herbs, creating unique flavor profiles. Reservations highly recommended.
-
Gladstone's Long Beach: With its prime waterfront location, Gladstone's delivers both stunning views and delicious food. Their calamari is expertly fried, boasting a satisfying crunch without being greasy. Perfect for a special occasion.
-
Boathouse on the Bay: Enjoying breathtaking views of the marina, Boathouse on the Bay offers a sophisticated take on calamari. Their lightly battered rings are served with aioli and a side salad. A more upscale experience.
-
King's Fish House: Known for their high-quality seafood, King's Fish House offers a luxurious calamari experience. Their rings are tender inside, with a perfectly crisp exterior. The sauce is a unique blend of herbs and spices. Pricey, but worth it.
-
Ruby's Diner: A classic Long Beach institution, Ruby's offers a nostalgic diner experience alongside consistently good calamari. Their portions are generous, and the price is right. Great for families.
-
Sharky's Woodfired Mexican Grill: This popular spot serves up delicious calamari with a Mexican twist. Think chipotle-lime seasoning and a creamy cilantro-lime dipping sauce. Try their margaritas!
-
The Crab Pot: As the name suggests, they specialize in seafood. Their calamari is fresh, expertly cooked, and highlights the natural flavor of the calamari. Seafood lovers rejoice!
-
La Strada Ristorante: This Italian eatery delivers authentic calamari that's tender and flavorful, often served with a side of lemon wedges and fresh parsley. Enjoy authentic Italian atmosphere.
10 Unique & Innovative Calamari Dishes in Long Beach
These restaurants offer a creative twist on the classic calamari, experimenting with different preparations, sauces, and flavor combinations.
- Parkers' Lighthouse: Offers grilled calamari steaks.
- Mariscos Jalisco: Features a unique preparation of battered calamari tacos.
- The Habit Burger Grill: Surprising but good, they offer a calamari burger!
- House of Kobe: Their tempura calamari is a delightful option
- 2nd Street Bistro: A sophisticated take on calamari in a elegant setting.
- XO Restaurant: Fuses Asian and American influences in their calamari preparation.
- Watertable: A high-end dining experience with unique calamari dishes
- Simmzy's: Offers calamari as a part of their larger seafood platter.
- Taco Loco: Offers calamari tacos with unique spicy sauces.
- Long Beach Alehouse: Their battered calamari is perfectly paired with local craft beers.
10 Budget-Friendly Calamari Options in Long Beach
These establishments offer delicious calamari without breaking the bank.
- Roscoe's House of Chicken 'N Waffles: A surprising entry, but their calamari is a delicious, inexpensive side.
- Buster's Beach Shack: Casual beachfront dining with affordable calamari.
- The Cannery Seafood of the Pacific: Offers happy hour deals including discounts on their calamari.
- Panino Kabob: Not known for calamari but offers a value-packed calamari appetizer.
- Original Fish Company: Great portion sizes for a reasonable price.
- Anthony's Seafood Grill: Known for value and fresh seafood, their calamari is consistently good.
- Naples Rib Company: Their calamari is a great addition to other BBQ dishes.
- Tommy's Burgers: A classic burger joint offering a surprisingly good calamari appetizer.
- El Torito: Serves delicious calamari at great value.
- Red Lobster: A chain restaurant that offers reliable and affordable calamari.
This list offers a broad overview; individual preferences will ultimately determine the "best" calamari in Long Beach. Remember to check restaurant websites or call ahead for hours, menus, and special offers. Enjoy your calamari adventure in Long Beach!
