Midtown Manhattan, the bustling heart of New York City, offers a surprising array of culinary delights beyond its famous skyscrapers and Broadway shows. One such delight? The humble, yet incredibly versatile, calamari. From classic fried rings to innovative preparations, Midtown boasts a wealth of restaurants serving up some of the best calamari in the city. This guide dives deep into 14 of the top contenders, helping you navigate the delicious landscape and find your perfect calamari fix.
Finding the Perfect Calamari: What to Look For
Before we dive into our top picks, let's talk about what makes truly great calamari. Several key factors contribute to a superior calamari experience:
- Freshness: The quality of the calamari starts with the squid itself. Look for restaurants that emphasize fresh, locally-sourced seafood whenever possible. The texture should be tender, not tough or rubbery.
- Preparation: While fried calamari is a classic, many restaurants offer variations, such as grilled, sautéed, or even stuffed calamari. The best preparation will depend on your personal preference.
- Breading (if applicable): For fried calamari, the breading is crucial. It should be light, crispy, and evenly applied, without being overly greasy.
- Sauce: A great calamari dish is often elevated by the accompanying sauce. Marinara, spicy fra diavolo, or even aioli can all complement the delicate flavor of the squid.
- Presentation: Even the best calamari benefits from thoughtful plating. A visually appealing dish enhances the overall dining experience.
The Top 14 Calamari Spots in Midtown NYC
Here are 14 Midtown restaurants renowned for their exceptional calamari, categorized for easier navigation:
Classic Italian-American Fare
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** Carmine's:** This family-style Italian restaurant is famous for its generous portions and comforting classics. Their calamari is a crowd-pleaser, perfectly crisp and served with a tangy marinara sauce.
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Becco: Known for its upscale Italian-American cuisine, Becco's calamari is a testament to its commitment to quality ingredients and expert preparation. The squid is tender, the breading is light and crispy, and the overall dish is simple yet elegant.
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Rao's: While notoriously difficult to get a reservation at, Rao's, if you can snag a table, offers legendary Italian-American fare. Their calamari is a testament to their commitment to traditional Italian cooking.
Modern Takes on Calamari
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The Smith: This popular American brasserie offers a modern take on classic dishes. Their calamari is a standout, often featuring interesting variations on the traditional preparation. Their spicy Calabrian chili version, for example, is a delight.
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Bill's Bar & Burger: This lively gastropub offers elevated pub fare with a twist. While known for their burgers, their calamari is surprisingly good, often with a creative dipping sauce.
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The Clocktower: This upscale British restaurant offers a sophisticated take on traditional British fare, including, occasionally, an impeccably prepared calamari dish.
Seafood-Centric Restaurants
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Ocean Prime: This elegant seafood restaurant consistently receives high praise for its calamari. They often offer grilled or pan-seared options alongside the classic fried version.
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The Sea Fire Grill: Focusing on sustainable seafood, Sea Fire’s calamari preparation highlights the natural flavor of the squid, often featuring light seasonings.
Hidden Gems & Unexpected Delights
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Atera: This Michelin-starred restaurant offers innovative tasting menus that may occasionally include a surprisingly creative take on calamari. Expect an unforgettable experience, but be prepared for a higher price point.
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Lilia: This Brooklyn-born restaurant, with a Midtown location, offers an authentic Italian experience. Their calamari often reflects seasonal ingredients.
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Via Carota: This charming West Village import offers a simple and delicious calamari fritti, perfect for a casual meal.
Casual & Quick Bites
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Joe Allen: A Midtown institution, Joe Allen provides a comforting, classic dining experience. Their calamari is a reliable choice that's always well-prepared.
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Bar Centrale: This vibrant spot is perfect for a quick and delicious meal. Their calamari is perfect for sharing, with a good balance of crispiness and flavor.
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Urbanspace Vanderbilt: This food hall features a rotating cast of vendors, often including one or more offering exceptional calamari. Check their website or visit for current vendor offerings.
Conclusion: Your Midtown Calamari Adventure Awaits!
Midtown Manhattan offers a fantastic array of places to enjoy truly delicious calamari. Whether you're seeking a classic fried version or a more modern take, this guide provides a starting point for your culinary adventure. Don't hesitate to explore beyond these 14, as the city's ever-changing culinary scene frequently introduces new gems. Happy eating!
