If you're a fan of seafood, then you know that calamari is a dish that you can't miss. It's a popular appetizer that's loved by many and can be found in almost every seafood restaurant in Nashville.
But not all calamari is created equal. Some places serve it perfectly tender and crispy, while others leave you with a rubbery and chewy mess.
That's why we've gone on the hunt for the best places for calamari in Nashville. We've scoured the city to find the top spots that serve up this delicious dish with the perfect balance of flavors and textures.
From upscale seafood restaurants to hole-in-the-wall joints, we've tried them all.
In this blog post, we'll be sharing our top picks for the best places for calamari in Nashville. We'll be giving you an inside look at what makes each spot so special, including the preparation, seasoning, and presentation of this classic dish.
Whether you're a seasoned seafood lover or just looking to try something new, we guarantee that you'll find a new favorite spot for calamari in our list. So, get ready to indulge in some of the most delicious and perfectly cooked calamari in Nashville.
1. Maggiano's Little Italy
Maggiano's Little Italy is a semi-upscale chain restaurant that serves classic Italian dishes family-style.
Their calamari is a must-try for seafood lovers. The service is attentive, and the atmosphere is cozy and inviting.
The prices are reasonable, and the portions are generous.
If you're looking for a delicious Italian meal with friends or family, Maggiano's Little Italy is a great choice.
2. Darfons Restaurant + Bar
Darfons Restaurant + Bar is a must-visit place for calamari lovers. Their calamari is hands down the best in town.
The menu is extensive, and the appetizers are delicious. The restaurant has a cozy and inviting atmosphere, perfect for a romantic dinner or a night out with friends.
The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, making the dining experience even more enjoyable. The wine menu is extensive, and the food portions are generous.
If you're looking for a place to have some of the best calamari in town, Darfons Restaurant + Bar is the place to go.
3. Etch
Etch is a must-visit restaurant for calamari lovers. The menu offers a wide variety of dishes that are cooked to perfection.
The portions are generous, and the flavors are outstanding. The atmosphere is upscale and eclectic, making it a great place for a romantic dinner or a business meeting.
The service is top-notch, and the staff is knowledgeable about the menu options. The cocktail and wine list is rich, providing a great accompaniment to the delicious food.
Make sure to try the roasted cauliflower and Brussels sprouts as a starter. The crispy calamari is a must-have and is cooked to perfection. Etch is a fine dining restaurant that should not be missed.
4. Barcelona Wine Bar
Barcelona Wine Bar is a Spanish restaurant and wine bar that offers delicious calamari.
The tapas are carefully cooked and the atmosphere is intimate, making it a great spot for a romantic date or a night out with friends. The service is awesome and the staff is knowledgeable about dietary restrictions.
The empanadas are standouts and the wine list is quite good. The prices are reasonable for the quality of food and the slow European dining experience is worth it.
If you're looking for a trendy spot with great food and drinks, Barcelona Wine Bar is a must-visit.
5. Sperry's Belle Meade
Sperry's Belle Meade is a classic steakhouse that also serves seafood.
Their calamari is a must-try dish, perfectly crispy and flavorful.
The restaurant has a cozy, old-school vibe with dim lighting and a salad bar.
The staff is attentive and provides excellent service. Prices are a bit high, but the quality of the food and experience is worth it.
6. Rolf and Daughters
Rolf and Daughters is a hip New American eatery serving up some seriously delicious calamari.
The calamari is perfectly cooked, crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. It's paired with a flavorful dipping sauce that takes the dish to the next level.
The restaurant has a cool industrial-chic vibe with communal tables and inventive cocktails.
If you're in the mood for some great calamari and a unique dining experience, Rolf and Daughters is the place to be.
7. Eddie V's Prime Seafood
Eddie V's Prime Seafood is a top-notch restaurant for calamari lovers. The customer service is exceptional and the food is cooked to perfection.
The restaurant offers a variety of seafood dishes and sides, all of which are delicious.
The atmosphere is elegant and upscale, making it a great place for a special occasion or a fancy night out. The live jazz music adds to the ambiance of the restaurant.
Although it is a bit pricey, the quality of the food and service is worth the cost. Eddie V's Prime Seafood is definitely a must-try for seafood enthusiasts.
8. City House
City House is a buzzing Italian spot that offers Southern-inspired cuisine. Their calamari is a must-try dish, perfectly crispy and served with a delicious dipping sauce.
The restaurant also serves pizza, pasta, and house-made sausage, all made with seasonal and fresh ingredients.
The staff is attentive and knowledgeable about the menu, making for a pleasant dining experience.
The ambiance is rustic and cozy, with options for indoor and outdoor seating. If you're looking for a spot to satisfy your calamari cravings, City House is definitely worth a visit.
9. Red Perch
Red Perch is a seafood restaurant that serves some of the best calamari in town. The calamari is fried perfectly and served with homemade tartar sauce.
The staff is friendly and the service is quick, despite the long lines. The restaurant also offers a variety of other seafood dishes, including fish and chips and grilled shrimp.
The atmosphere is cozy and the seating options are both indoor and outdoor. The prices are reasonable and the portion sizes are generous.
If you're looking for a seafood restaurant with great calamari, Red Perch is definitely worth a visit.
10. Moto
Moto is a chic Italian restaurant that serves delicious calamari. The calamari is cooked to perfection and served with a side of tangy marinara sauce.
The atmosphere is modern and sophisticated, making it a great place for a date night or a fancy dinner out.
The service is attentive and professional, adding to the overall enjoyable dining experience.
For those looking for a taste of Italian cuisine, Moto is a must-visit destination.
11. Coco's Italian Market & Restaurant
Coco's Italian Market & Restaurant is a charming spot that serves up delicious calamari.
The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere and a menu full of traditional Italian dishes. The staff is friendly and attentive, making for a pleasant dining experience.
The calamari is cooked to perfection and is served with a flavorful dipping sauce.
Whether you're a fan of calamari or just looking for a great Italian meal, Coco's is definitely worth a visit.
12. Maru Sushi & Grill – East Nashville
Maru Sushi & Grill – East Nashville offers delicious calamari that is fresh and perfectly cooked.
The restaurant is family-owned and offers a modern, airy atmosphere that is perfect for enjoying Japanese cuisine.
The sushi rolls are creative and the service is friendly and attentive. Prices are affordable, making it a great option for those looking for a tasty meal without breaking the bank.
Highly recommended for those looking for delicious calamari in a great atmosphere.
