The Absolute Best Calamari in Baltimore [Updated 2025]

After countless plates of perfectly fried rings and adventurous dips that danced on my taste buds, I’ve scoured the city to find the absolute best spots for calamari. I dove into twelve amazing locations, each with its own unique twist on this beloved seafood staple.

With over a decade of culinary exploration under my belt, I’ve tasted everything from classic preparations to creative reinventions that’ll leave you craving more. Trust me, whether you're a local or just visiting, this guide will steer you straight to calamari heaven. Get ready to discover your new favorite dish in the Charm City!

Thames Street Oyster House

Highlights
Fresh, plump oysters
Generous seafood portions
Attentive and friendly service
Must-try crab cakes
Charming Fells Point location

Thames Street Oyster House in Baltimore is a treasure trove for seafood lovers, and they definitely know their way around calamari. Nestled in the charming Fells Point district, the atmosphere sets the stage for a delightful culinary adventure. As soon as the calamari arrived at the table, I was greeted by a golden-brown hue that was as enticing as a sunset over the harbor.

Each piece was fresh and plump, tender with just the right amount of crispiness, thanks to a clever light batter. The accompanying marinara sauce was vibrant and flavorful, a worthy partner that elevated the dish without overpowering the delicate taste of the squid. It’s easy to see why this appetizer has gained a loyal following.

What truly made my visit memorable was the attentive and friendly service. My server was knowledgeable about the menu and eager to suggest the best offerings, including their must-try crab cakes, which I’ll certainly return to sample.

If you find yourself wandering the cobbled streets of Fells Point, make sure to drop by Thames Street Oyster House. Their calamari is a delightful original among the many options in Baltimore, and I can assure you, it's worth a taste!

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Rusty Scupper Restaurant & Bar

Highlights
Beautiful harbor view
Excellent and welcoming service
Perfect portion sizes
Delicious seafood options
Top-tier staff recommendations

Nestled along the scenic Inner Harbor, Rusty Scupper Restaurant & Bar is a must-visit not just for the stunning views but also for some of the best calamari I've ever tasted. The moment I walked in, I was greeted by a warm ambiance and friendly staff who made me feel right at home. The service was impeccable, making my dining experience all the more delightful.

Now, let’s get to the star of the show—the calamari. Served in perfect portion sizes, each bite revealed a delightful** crunch that gave way to tender, juicy seafood.** The seasoning was spot-on, a harmonious blend of spices that did not overpower but rather complimented the delicate flavor of the calamari.

I appreciated that the menu offered various seafood options, but I couldn’t resist returning to that golden calamari. It was such a pleasure to savor a dish that not only met but exceeded my expectations. If you’re in search of calamari that captures the essence of Baltimore dining, head to Rusty Scupper—where the views are almost as good as the food!

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Mama's On the Half Shell

Highlights
Great outdoor seating
Exceptional seafood flavors
Friendly and attentive staff
Memorable dining experience
Must-try crab egg rolls

At Mama's On the Half Shell, nestled in the heart of Baltimore, I was on a mission to find the city's best calamari. From the moment I arrived, I felt the warm embrace of their exceptional environment. The outdoor seating was inviting, perfect for savoring dishes while soaking up the vibrant city atmosphere.

Now, let's talk about the calamari! Cooked to perfection, each tender piece is delicately battered and fried, exhibiting a satisfying crunch that brings a delightful symphony of flavors with every bite. The accompanying dipping sauce—a zesty concoction that balances the sweetness of the squid—left me craving more. It was apparent that they craft their seafood dishes with unwavering passion and expertise.

The staff at Mama's were genuinely friendly, ensuring I had everything I needed to enjoy my meal. Their attentiveness added a personal touch to this already memorable dining experience. And while you're there, do not miss out on their must-try crab egg rolls, which are a revelation in themselves!

In a nutshell, if you're on the hunt for the best calamari in Baltimore, Mama's On the Half Shell is a crucial stop that will surely delight your palate.

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Luna Del Sea

Highlights
Nice downtown location
Good food and drinks
Close to stadiums
Reasonable prices
Helpful and friendly staff

Review of Luna Del Sea

Luna Del Sea is the kind of place that captures your heart the moment you step inside. Nestled in a lively downtown location, it beckons with its inviting atmosphere, making it a perfect spot before or after a game. As I settled in, the friendly staff welcomed me with warm smiles, setting the tone for an enjoyable dining experience.

Now, let's talk about the star of the show: the calamari. At Luna Del Sea, the calamari is crispy yet tender, offering a delightful crunch with every bite. They're fried to perfection and served with a zesty marinara sauce that has just the right amount of kick. The reasonable prices make indulging in this squid delight even better, as I didn't have to break the bank to enjoy such culinary artistry.

Pair the calamari with one of their refreshing drinks, and you've got a winning combination! Whether you're a local or just visiting, Luna Del Sea is a must-try destination for anyone in search of the best calamari in Baltimore. Trust me—your taste buds will thank you!

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Twist fells point

Highlights
Lovely brunch ambiance
Outstanding food quality
Pride in service
Delicious blueberry pancakes
Excellent scallops dish

Twist fells point is a hidden gem that captivated my taste buds with its irresistible calamari. Nestled in a vibrant brunch ambiance, it’s not just the food that delights; it’s the energy that fills the room. As I settled in, I was warmly greeted by a staff that truly takes pride in their service.

The calamari itself was a standout dish—crispy bites of ocean-fresh goodness, perfectly seasoned and served with a zesty dipping sauce that awakened my senses. It’s clear that the chefs at Twist prioritize outstanding food quality, and their attention to detail really paid off.

While I indulged in this delicious starter, I couldn't help but notice the alluring aroma of their blueberry pancakes wafting from neighboring tables—another reason to return soon! And let's not forget their tantalizing scallops dish that I caught glimpses of, further enticing me to explore their menu more deeply.

In a city rich with culinary options, Twist fells point has firmly established itself as a must-visit restaurant. If you're in the mood for delightfully crispy calamari, look no further!

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Sotto Sopra

Highlights
Cozy Italian atmosphere
Beautiful decor
Talented bartender
Delicious and varied menu
Polite and friendly service

When I approached Sotto Sopra in Baltimore, I was instantly captivated by its cozy Italian atmosphere and beautiful decor. The ambiance feels like a warm embrace, perfect for indulging in their culinary delights. As I perused the menu, the tantalizing options drew me in deeper, but I was there for one star dish: the calamari.

Upon arrival, the dish was presented with a delightful aroma that tickled my senses. The calamari was cooked to golden perfection—crispy on the outside, yet tender on the inside. Each bite was a delicious dance of flavor, complemented by a zesty dipping sauce that added a playful zing. What truly made the experience stand out was the polite and friendly service from the staff, who seemed genuinely passionate about making my visit unforgettable.

To top it all off, the talented bartender mixed me a cocktail that paired flawlessly with the calamari. It was delightful to enjoy such a splendid dish in a restaurant that radiates both warmth and expertise. If you find yourself in Baltimore and craving calamari, be sure to stop by Sotto Sopra—you won’t regret it!

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Sal & Son's Seafood Inc

Highlights
Fresh and made to order
Excellent traditional preparation
Great service
Affordable delicious meals
Walk-up format

My recent visit to Sal & Son's Seafood Inc was nothing short of a delightful culinary adventure! I was instantly charmed by the cozy walk-up format, which adds a casual yet inviting touch. Upon ordering the calamari, I was thrilled to discover that it was freshly made to order—a true testament to their commitment to quality.

The dish arrived, perfectly golden, with a beautiful aroma that lured me in even before I took the first bite. The preparation was excellently traditional, featuring a light crispy batter that allowed the delicate flavor of the squid to shine through. Each piece was cooked to perfection, leaving a satisfying crunch with every chew.

I must commend the service, as the staff was both friendly and attentive, showing genuine enthusiasm for the menu. For the taste and quality, I found the meals to be quite affordable, making it a great spot for both serious foodies and casual diners alike.

In the bustling food scene of Baltimore, Sal & Son's Seafood Inc stands out not just for its calamari, but for its warm atmosphere and dedicated approach to seafood. If you're in search of exceptional calamari, this charming spot is definitely a must-visit!

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The Choptank - Baltimore

Highlights
Attentive and friendly staff
Great atmosphere and vibe
Delicious Maryland cuisine
Quick service for large groups
Strong and fruity cocktails

Review of The Choptank - Baltimore

As I walked into The Choptank, the friendly atmosphere instantly welcomed me. The upbeat music and charming decor set the stage for a delightful dining experience. But let's talk about the star of the show: the calamari!

I eagerly ordered the crispy calamari, and boy, was I in for a treat! The texture was perfectly tender, with just the right amount of crunch that made each bite absolutely satisfying. Tossed in a zesty, tangy sauce that danced on my palate, this dish elevated the classic dish to new heights. Plus, it was generously portioned, perfect for sharing—or not!

What really impressed me was the attentive and friendly staff who checked in on my table without being intrusive. Their recommendations, especially pairing the calamari with one of their strong and fruity cocktails, enhanced the whole experience. The service was refreshingly quick, making it an ideal spot for both large groups and casual diners alike.

In the vibrant ambiance of The Choptank, I found more than just calamari; I discovered a delightful blend of Maryland cuisine and conviviality. If you’re on a quest for mouthwatering calamari in Baltimore, this gem is definitely worth a visit!

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La Tavola

Highlights
Authentic Sardinian cuisine
Inviting and comfortable ambiance
Friendly and attentive staff
Creative weekly specials
Excellent gluten-free options

La Tavola in Baltimore is a delightful gem that has truly captured my heart—and my taste buds! As I stepped inside, the inviting and comfortable ambiance wrapped around me like a warm hug. From the moment I was seated, the friendly and attentive staff made me feel right at home, ready to embark on a culinary adventure.

Now, let's talk about the real star of the show: their calamari. La Tavola offers a distinctively authentic Sardinian twist, featuring calamari that is carefully prepared to perfection. Each bite strikes the perfect balance between crispy and tender, with a subtle seasoning that dances on the palate. You won't find any soggy breading here; their creative approach guarantees that every piece is delightful.

What I really appreciated, however, was their commitment to inclusivity with excellent gluten-free options, making sure that everyone gets a chance to savor this dish. Also, keep an eye out for their creative weekly specials—you never know what fresh twist they might surprise you with!

If you're in Baltimore and craving calamari that’s not just good but truly exceptional, La Tavola is the place to be!

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La Cuchara

Highlights
Top-notch Basque flavors
Attentive and kind service
Unique and delicious tapas
Great ambiance and art
Decadent lamb shoulder

La Cuchara has become my new go-to for a memorable calamari experience! Nestled in the heart of Baltimore, this establishment artfully balances Basque flavors with a cozy atmosphere, and I couldn't resist diving into their calamari dish. With a gentle crunch that gave way to tender, perfectly cooked squid, it was an absolute delight. The dish was beautifully seasoned, showcasing a fantastic blend of spices that made every bite sing.

What truly set this experience apart was the attentive and kind service. The staff seemed genuinely passionate about the menu, offering insights and recommendations that enhanced my visit. Each dish had a story, especially the calamari, which was served with a unique dipping sauce that seemed to blend tradition with a modern twist.

As I savored the calamari under the glow of the restaurant’s tasteful art and vibrant ambiance, I felt a sense of community—this wasn’t just dining; it was an experience! If you're looking to treat your palate to something extraordinary, La Cuchara is absolutely worth the visit. It's a place where flavors come alive, and their calamari is a true masterpiece!

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Estiatorio Plaka

Highlights
Exceptional customer service
Memorable food and drinks
Impressive bakery selection
Inviting ambiance
Flaky pastry perfection

Estiatorio Plaka is a delightful gem in Baltimore, and I had the pleasure of savoring their calamari on a recent visit. The ambiance was warm and welcoming, making it the perfect backdrop for a culinary adventure.

As I dove into the beautifully presented dish, the calamari stole the spotlight with its flaky pastry perfection. Each bite offered the perfect balance of crispiness and tenderness, paired with a subtle hint of seasoning that enhanced the natural flavor. Not to forget, the accompanying dipping sauce was a zesty masterpiece that made every morsel even more delectable.

The customer service was exceptional, with the staff eagerly sharing their recommendations and ensuring my experience was nothing short of memorable. And let’s not overlook their impressive bakery selection—the sweet aroma enveloping the restaurant was simply irresistible, making it hard to resist trying a pastry after my meal.

In short, if you're hunting for the best calamari in Baltimore, Estiatorio Plaka is a must-visit. I left with a full belly and a heart full of joy, eager to return for another round of this delightful dish!

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Angie's Seafood

Angie's Seafood is a delightful find in Baltimore that serves up some surprisingly delectable calamari. The moment I took my first bite, I was greeted with a perfect crispy texture that gave way to tender and flavorful rings. Tossed in a zesty garlic sauce, they danced with a hint of heat, elevating the entire dish to a new level. Pair it with their house-made marinara, and you’ve got a winning combination. The cozy ambiance and friendly service made me feel right at home. Angie's is a must-visit for care-free seafood lovers seeking a delightful calamari experience!

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