Virginia Beach is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Virginia. The city is known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and delicious seafood.
In particular, fried calamari has become a favorite dish among locals and visitors alike.
Fried calamari is a traditional Italian appetizer that has become a staple in many seafood restaurants in Virginia Beach.
The dish is made by coating sliced squid in seasoned flour and breadcrumbs before deep-frying until crispy. The result is a deliciously crispy and savory treat that pairs perfectly with a cold beer or a glass of white wine.
If you're a fan of fried calamari, you're in luck because Virginia Beach has a plethora of restaurants that serve this mouth-watering dish.
From upscale seafood establishments to casual beachside eateries, there's no shortage of options when it comes to finding the best fried calamari in Virginia Beach. In this blog post, we'll take a look at some of the top spots in the city to enjoy this delicious seafood appetizer.
1. Waterman's Surfside Grille
Waterman's Surfside Grille is a veteran beachfront eatery that serves delicious fried calamari.
The restaurant is known for its fresh and quality seafood dishes, and the fried calamari is no exception. The atmosphere is welcoming and perfect for a beachfront view.
The staff is attentive and provides excellent service. The prices are reasonable, making it a great spot for a casual meal.
If you're in the mood for some tasty and crispy calamari, Waterman's Surfside Grille is the place to be.
2. Bay Local Eatery
Bay Local Eatery is a lively bar and bistro that serves creative American cuisine.
They have a variety of dishes, including fried calamari, which is a must-try. The atmosphere is upscale and beachy, with quirky vintage decor.
The service is solid, and the staff are friendly. The menu selection is unique, with interesting choices, and the portions are well-sized.
While there may be a wait for a table, the experience at Bay Local Eatery is worth it.
3. Blue Seafood & Spirits
Blue Seafood & Spirits is a great spot for seafood lovers. The fried calamari is a standout dish, with a perfect balance of seasoning and crunch.
The menu offers a variety of fresh seafood options, and the chef is friendly and attentive to customers.
The cozy atmosphere and friendly staff make for a pleasant dining experience.
It's definitely worth a visit if you're in the mood for some delicious seafood.
4. Lucky Oyster Seafood Company
Lucky Oyster Seafood Company is a must-visit spot for fried calamari lovers. The breading is just right, not too much, and the calamari is perfectly cooked.
But that's not all, Lucky Oyster Seafood Company also serves other delicious seafood dishes, from raw oysters to seafood penne.
The atmosphere is incredible, with nautical decor adding to the charm of the place. The friendly and attentive staff make sure that every customer has a memorable dining experience.
If you're looking for a casual seafood restaurant with great food, Lucky Oyster Seafood Company is the place to be.
5. Steinhilber's Restaurant
Steinhilber's Restaurant is a fine dining establishment that serves up some of the best fried calamari around. The calamari is light and flaky and comes with a superb white sauce.
The wait staff is professional and well-trained, giving just the right amount of attention without being overbearing.
The restaurant has a broad wine selection to satisfy any taste.
Perfect for a date night or any special occasion, Steinhilber's Restaurant is a hidden gem tucked away in a residential neighborhood.
6. Il Giardino Ristorante
Il Giardino Ristorante is a classy Italian restaurant that serves excellent fried calamari.
The portion sizes are generous, and the calamari is cooked to perfection. The ambiance is elegant, with a wood-burning oven and a vast wine selection.
The service is top-notch, and the staff is friendly and attentive.
If you're looking for a place to enjoy some delicious fried calamari, Il Giardino Ristorante is definitely worth a visit.
7. Terrapin Restaurant
Terrapin Restaurant is a must-visit spot for those looking for high-quality New American cuisine. The restaurant prides itself on using fresh, locally sourced ingredients to create unique and flavorful dishes.
While the menu offers a variety of options, the fried calamari is a standout dish that should not be missed.
The calamari is perfectly crispy and served with a delicious dipping sauce. The attentive and knowledgeable staff make the dining experience even more enjoyable.
The sleek and refined venue, complete with a bar and outdoor seating, provides the perfect ambiance for a memorable meal.
8. Chick's Oyster Bar
Chick's Oyster Bar is a rustic seafood restaurant with a relaxed atmosphere. The restaurant offers indoor and outdoor seating with a lovely view of the water.
The menu has limited options but the food is fresh and delicious. The fried calamari is cooked to perfection and not chewy.
Customers recommend trying the sweet potato fries which are seasoned with cinnamon and nutmeg.
The staff is attentive and helpful, making the dining experience enjoyable. Chick's Oyster Bar is a great place to stop by and enjoy some seafood.
9. Dockside Seafood & Fishing Center
Dockside Seafood & Fishing Center is a casual waterside eatery that serves some of the best fried calamari in town.
The batter used is crispy and light, and the calamari is cooked to perfection. The restaurant also offers a wide variety of fresh seafood, including snapper fish and oysters.
The service is friendly and attentive, and the atmosphere is relaxed and inviting.
Whether you're looking for a quick bite or a full meal, Dockside Seafood & Fishing Center is definitely worth a visit.
10. Angelo's Italian Restaurant
Looking for the best place for fried calamari in town, look no further than Angelo's Italian Restaurant.
With its cozy and quaint atmosphere, this small family-owned restaurant offers some of the best Italian cuisine around. The calamari is simply amazing, crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
The garlic knots appetizer is a must-try as well. The service is excellent, and the staff is knowledgeable about the menu items.
The prices are reasonable, and the portions are generous. Whether you're in the mood for pizza or pasta, Angelo's Italian Restaurant is sure to satisfy your cravings.
11. Coastal Grill
Coastal Grill is a local restaurant that has been serving seafood and American fare since 1989.
While they offer a range of dishes, their fried calamari is a standout. The calamari is perfectly cooked and crispy, with a delicious dipping sauce on the side.
The restaurant has a classic, homey feel and the service is excellent.
If you're in the mood for some top-notch fried calamari, Coastal Grill is definitely worth a visit.
12. Eurasia Cafe
Eurasia Cafe is a great spot for fried calamari. The food is of high quality and the service is fast.
They have a wide variety of menu options to choose from, and their beef short rib is a must-try.
Their bathroom is nicely appointed and matches the decor of the restaurant.
If you're looking for a local favorite with an expansive and affordable menu, Eurasia Cafe is the place to go.
13. Blue Pete's Restaurant
Blue Pete's Restaurant is a local seafood spot that serves amazing fried calamari. The calamari is crispy and flavorful, making it a must-try dish.
The restaurant offers indoor and outdoor seating with lovely water views. The atmosphere is great, and the staff is friendly and attentive.
The menu is seafood-themed but has options for all tastes. The prices are a bit high, but the quality of food and service make it worth it.
If you're looking for a cute and delicious place to eat, Blue Pete's Restaurant is the perfect choice.
14. Boil Bay Cajun Seafood and Bar
Boil Bay Cajun Seafood and Bar is a must-visit restaurant for lovers of fried calamari. They offer a variety of seafood dishes, but their fried calamari is exceptional.
The calamari is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, with just the right amount of seasoning.
The staff is friendly, and the restaurant is clean and well-maintained. Prices are reasonable for the quality of food and service provided.
Boil Bay Cajun Seafood and Bar is highly recommended for anyone looking for a great meal in a welcoming atmosphere.
15. CP Shuckers Cafe & Raw Bar
CP Shuckers Cafe & Raw Bar is a great place to get fried calamari. The batter is light and doesn't overpower the flavor of the calamari.
The menu offers a variety of options and the seafood is fresh. The staff is friendly and attentive, making sure to provide good service.
The atmosphere is pleasant and beachy, perfect for a casual meal. The only downside is that parking can be difficult, so it's best to plan ahead.
All in all, CP Shuckers Cafe & Raw Bar is a great spot for fried calamari and fresh seafood.
16. Chix on the Beach
Chix on the Beach is a casual beachfront restaurant that serves delicious fried calamari.
The restaurant has a great vibe and is perfect for a casual dining experience with friends and family. The service is excellent, and the staff is friendly and attentive.
The fried calamari is crispy and flavorful, and it comes with a dipping sauce that complements the dish perfectly.
The restaurant also serves other seafood dishes, American eats, and has a full bar with indoor-outdoor seating. If you're looking for a great place to enjoy some fried calamari, Chix on the Beach is definitely worth a visit.
17. Isle of Capri
Isle of Capri is an upscale Italian seafood and pasta restaurant that offers delicious fried calamari.
The restaurant has a sleek design with sea vistas, making it a great spot for a fine dining experience.
The wait staff is attentive and friendly, and the food is prepared and cooked perfectly. The prices are on the higher end, but the quality of the food and the view make it worth it.
If you're looking for a great place for fried calamari, Isle of Capri is definitely worth considering.
