San Jose's Best Calamari [Updated 2025]

You won’t believe the culinary treasures I’ve uncovered in this vibrant city! After sampling mouthwatering calamari from 12 top-notch locales, I’m ready to spill the secrets of where to find the most tender, flavorful rings that will make your taste buds dance.

As someone who’s navigated the San Jose food scene like a pro, I can assure you that each spot on this list has its own unique spin on calamari, from classic preparations to innovative twists. Whether you're a longtime fan or trying it for the first time, trust me—you’re in for a delicious adventure!

The Boiling Crab

Highlights
Unique food serving style
Fresh prawns and crabs
Reasonable pricing
Fried chicken surprisingly good
Messy but fun dining experience

The Boiling Crab is a gem tucked away in San Jose, and let me tell you, diving into their calamari is an adventure in itself! As I walked in, the vibe was lively and inviting, with an air of promise-filled with seafood delights. The unique food serving style immediately caught my eye, as the dishes arrive piled high, inviting diners to dig in — and messiness is part of the fun!

Their calamari was nothing short of a delight, perfectly fried to a golden crisp. Each bite revealed a delightful tenderness, teasing my palate without overwhelming it. In fact, this kitchen not only excels in calamari but also surprises with their fried chicken, which—I'll admit—I didn’t expect from a seafood joint. It was juicy and flavorful, making it a tempting alternative on the menu.

Dining here is an experience; the messy yet enjoyable atmosphere encourages laughter and camaraderie among friends. Plus, the pricing is absolutely reasonable, allowing you to indulge without worry. If you’re on the hunt for calamari that’s not just delicious but also part of a larger seafood bonanza, The Boiling Crab should definitely be on your list!

You might also want to check out the best restaurants in Palo Alto.

King's Fish House

Highlights
Friendly and attentive service
Quick appetizer delivery
Tasty key lime pie
Consistent fried calamari
Mixed entrees experience

King's Fish House in San Jose is a delightful find for seafood lovers, particularly for those in search of mouthwatering calamari. From the moment I stepped inside, I was greeted by a friendly and attentive staff, setting the stage for what would surely be a memorable dining experience.

The calamari arrived at my table swiftly, golden and crisp, drizzled with just the right amount of seasoning that tantalized my taste buds. Each bite was a satisfying crunch paired with a tender interior—this dish is nothing short of consistently excellent. It’s refreshing to see a restaurant that maintains quality throughout its offerings, and I can confidently say the calamari here is a testament to that.

While indulging in this seafood delight, I couldn’t resist ending my meal with their famous key lime pie. The sweet-tart flavors provided a perfect contrast after the salty treat, making for a well-rounded dining experience.

Overall, if you’re looking to satisfy your calamari cravings, King's Fish House is undoubtedly a destination worth visiting. A great meal awaits you, blending quality ingredients with a welcoming ambience.

You might also want to check out the best restaurants in Santa Cruz.

Claw Shack

At Claw Shack, I was greeted with a playful atmosphere that instantly set the tone for a delightful meal. Their calamari, perfectly crispy and seasoned with a hint of spice, left me craving more. Each bite showcased its tender texture, complemented by a zesty dipping sauce that danced on my taste buds. The generous portion size makes it perfect for sharing—or not! Overall, Claw Shack serves up calamari that is both refreshingly bold and delicious, solidifying its spot as one of the top contenders in San Jose’s seafood scene. Don’t miss out on this culinary delight!

You might also want to check out the best eats in San Jose.

The Crab Bay

At The Crab Bay, the calamari took me on a thrilling culinary adventure. Tender and perfectly seasoned, each bite was a delightful dance of flavors, beautifully complemented by a zesty marinara dip. The golden, crispy coating gave way to succulent rings that were far from ordinary. I appreciated how they nailed the balance between crunch and tenderness—definitely a standout in the local seafood scene. The atmosphere was lively, enhancing the overall experience. If you’re looking for a calamari marvel that will tantalize your taste buds, The Crab Bay should definitely be on your list!

You might also want to check out the best restaurants in Fremont.

Luna del Mar Restaurant

At Luna del Mar, the calamari was a delightful surprise! Perfectly crispy on the outside, each ring was tender and brimming with flavor. Their unique hint of chorizo spice elevated the dish, providing an enticing kick. Served with a zesty marinara that balanced the richness, it was hard to resist diving back in for more. The ambiance felt warm and inviting, making it an ideal spot for a date night or gathering with friends. If you find yourself in San Jose, be sure to savor this exquisite calamari—it’s a culinary treasure worth indulging!

You might also want to check out the best breakfast in San Jose.

Big T's Seafood Bar

At Big T's Seafood Bar, the calamari is a must-try! The moment I took my first bite, I was welcomed by a delightful crunch and tender texture that danced on my palate. Perfectly seasoned, these rings were served with a zesty dipping sauce that added a playful kick to each mouthful. The ambiance is casual, inviting you to relax and savor your meal. Whether you're a calamari connoisseur or a curious first-timer, Big T's crafts an unforgettable experience. If you're on the hunt for exquisite seafood, don't miss this gem—it's a tasty adventure waiting to happen!

You might also want to check out the best restaurants in Mountain View.

Maggiano's Little Italy

At Maggiano's Little Italy, the calamari took center stage. This dish was exquisitely prepared, featuring tender rings that were lightly battered to perfection. The accompanying marinara sauce—a rich blend of tomatoes and herbs—elevated the dish to new heights, bringing a delightful zing to each bite. I appreciated the generous portion, perfect for sharing or indulging solo. The atmosphere added a cozy charm, making the calamari not just a meal but a memorable experience. For those craving a touch of Italy in San Jose, this restaurant delivers a calamari that is both satisfying and deliciously addictive!

You might also want to check out the best restaurants in Redwood City.

Blue Water Seafood and Crab

Blue Water Seafood and Crab offers a delightful twist on calamari that had me swooning with every bite. The crispy exterior is perfectly seasoned, providing an irresistible crunch that leads to a tender, flavorful center. Each piece of calamari is served with a zesty dipping sauce that elevates the dish to new heights. The ocean-fresh taste is palpable, making this dish a standout! The laid-back ambiance complements the culinary experience, confirming it as a must-visit spot for seafood lovers. For those seeking the best calamari in San Jose, Blue Water is a shore thing!

You might also want to check out the best restaurants in Los Gatos.

The City Fish

At The City Fish, I discovered a delightful twist on the classic calamari. Their golden-brown fritters sport a light, crispy crust that beckons you to take a bite. The calamari is perfectly tender, and paired with a zesty dipping sauce that dances on the palate. Each piece is well-seasoned, showcasing the freshness of the ocean. The ambiance is casual yet lively, making it an ideal spot for seafood lovers. If you’re in search of a mouthwatering calamari experience in San Jose, look no further—I highly recommend indulging at The City Fish!

You might also want to check out the best sushi in San Jose.

Rosy's Fish City

At Rosy's Fish City, the calamari turned out to be a delightful surprise! Each tender ring was lightly breaded and perfectly fried, boasting a golden crunch that contrasted beautifully with its succulent interior. The accompanying homemade marinara sauce added a zing that elevated every bite to new heights. I appreciated the generous portion, making it a great value for a quick yet satisfying meal. If you're on a quest for fresh and flavorful calamari, Rosy's is a must-visit destination that won’t disappoint. Overall, it leaves you craving more and eager to return for another round!

You might also want to check out the best burgers in San Jose.

Paesano Ristorante Italiano

At Paesano Ristorante Italiano, the calamari truly impressed me with its delightful crispiness. Each bite was a flavorful dance of herbs and spices, perfectly complemented by a zesty marinara sauce. The texture was spot-on—tender yet satisfying—and the portion size left me both happy and full. What stood out was the exquisite balance of flavors, making it a standout on their menu. The ambiance added to the charm, making me feel right at home. If you're on a quest for the perfect calamari in San Jose, don’t miss this gem! It'll make your taste buds sing!

You might also want to check out the best pho in San Jose.

California Fish Grill

At California Fish Grill, the calamari left me craving more. Lightly breaded and perfectly fried, each tender ring practically dances on your palate. The accompanying chili aioli adds a delightful kick, elevating the dish to new heights of flavor. The freshness of the squid is evident, enhancing the overall deliciousness. As I savored each bite, I couldn't help but think this was a delectable treat worth sharing. If you're in San Jose and looking for calamari that tantalizes the taste buds, this spot should be at the top of your list. Savor the moment—it's a catch you won't want to miss!

You might also want to check out the best restaurants in Cupertino.