Maspeth, Queens, might not be the first place that springs to mind when you think of amazing calamari, but this unassuming neighborhood boasts a surprising number of excellent options. This guide dives deep into thirteen of Maspeth's best calamari spots, helping you navigate the delicious world of fried, grilled, and sautéed squid. We'll explore what makes each place unique, examining factors like breading, sauce, and overall quality to help you find your new favorite calamari destination. This isn't just a list; it's a culinary journey through the heart of Maspeth's calamari scene.
Top 5 Calamari Spots: The Crème de la Crème
These five restaurants consistently receive rave reviews for their exceptional calamari.
1. Luigi's Trattoria: The Classic
Luigi's offers a classic, expertly executed calamari. Their lightly breaded, tender calamari rings are fried to perfection, boasting a crispy exterior and a succulent interior. The marinara sauce is homemade, vibrant, and perfectly complements the seafood.
- What makes it stand out: The balance of crispy and tender, and the quality of the homemade marinara.
- Price: $
- Ambiance: Traditional Italian trattoria, warm and inviting.
2. Bella Vista Pizzeria: The Unexpected Gem
While known for its pizzas, Bella Vista's calamari is a hidden gem. They use a unique, slightly spicy breading that adds a kick to the classic dish. The calamari itself is exceptionally fresh and tender.
- What makes it stand out: The unique spicy breading and incredibly fresh calamari.
- Price: $
- Ambiance: Casual pizzeria, great for a quick bite.
3. The Maspeth Ale House: The Pub Favorite
The Maspeth Ale House provides a fantastic calamari option in a relaxed pub setting. Their version is often described as "perfectly crisp" and served with a generous side of tartar sauce and lemon wedges.
- What makes it stand out: The perfectly crisp texture and generous portions.
- Price: $
- Ambiance: Lively pub with a friendly atmosphere.
4. Anthony's Seafood: The Seafood Specialist
As a seafood restaurant, Anthony's naturally excels at calamari. They offer various preparations, from lightly fried to grilled, allowing for diverse tastes. Their emphasis is on quality, fresh ingredients.
- What makes it stand out: Variety of preparation styles and high-quality ingredients.
- Price: $$
- Ambiance: Upscale seafood restaurant, perfect for special occasions.
5. Maria's Ristorante: The Family Favorite
Maria's Ristorante is a Maspeth institution, and their calamari reflects their commitment to quality and tradition. Their calamari is consistently tender, flavorful, and perfectly cooked, making it a family favorite.
- What makes it stand out: Consistency and traditional Italian preparation.
- Price: $
- Ambiance: Warm and inviting family-friendly atmosphere.
The Next Tier: Eight More Delicious Options
These eight restaurants provide excellent calamari experiences, offering a diverse range of styles and flavors.
- Joe's Bar and Grill: Casual atmosphere, great for groups.
- Pete's Pizza: Simple, delicious, and affordable.
- The Greek Place: Unique Greek-inspired calamari preparation.
- Sunny's Diner: A surprising diner find, great for late-night cravings.
- Broadway Pizza: Classic New York-style calamari.
- La Piazza: Authentic Italian cuisine with high-quality calamari.
- Golden Krust: Unexpectedly excellent calamari from this Caribbean bakery.
- My Big Fat Greek Restaurant: Another option for a Greek-inspired calamari twist.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Your Calamari
When choosing your perfect Maspeth calamari experience, consider these factors:
- Breading: Do you prefer a light, crispy breading, or a thicker, more substantial one?
- Sauce: Marinara, tartar sauce, garlic aioli—the sauce can make or break the dish.
- Preparation: Fried, grilled, sautéed—each method offers a different texture and flavor.
- Freshness: Look for restaurants that prioritize fresh ingredients.
- Ambiance: Do you want a casual pub setting, a romantic trattoria, or something else entirely?
Conclusion: Your Maspeth Calamari Adventure Awaits!
Maspeth, Queens offers a surprisingly diverse selection of fantastic calamari. Whether you're a seasoned calamari connoisseur or a newcomer to this delicious dish, this guide provides a starting point for your culinary adventure. Remember to explore, experiment, and find your perfect calamari match in this vibrant Queens neighborhood. Enjoy!
