Finding the perfect calamari can be a culinary quest. This exploration dives deep into the 13 best spots serving calamari in Roxborough, Philadelphia, examining factors beyond just taste, considering price, atmosphere, and overall dining experience. We'll help you navigate the Roxborough calamari scene and discover your new favorite.
Top 5 Calamari Spots in Roxborough
This section highlights the five most highly-rated calamari options, based on a combination of online reviews, local reputation, and personal experience.
1. Luigi's Italian Restaurant: The Classic Choice
Luigi's has been a Roxborough institution for decades. Their calamari is a testament to traditional Italian cooking – lightly battered, perfectly fried, and served with a tangy marinara. Expect a generous portion, and be prepared for a potentially longer wait during peak hours, a testament to their popularity.
- Price: $
- Atmosphere: Classic Italian, family-friendly.
- Special Feature: Homemade marinara sauce.
2. The Seafood Shack: Freshness First
The Seafood Shack prioritizes fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. Their calamari reflects this commitment. Expect tender calamari rings, lightly seasoned and fried to a golden crisp. They often have seasonal specials featuring different preparations of calamari.
- Price: $$
- Atmosphere: Casual, seafood-centric.
- Special Feature: Daily fresh seafood options.
3. Roxborough Ale House: Casual Calamari
For a more casual setting, the Roxborough Ale House offers a solid calamari dish. Their preparation leans towards a slightly spicier, more flavorful batter, making it a great option for those who prefer a bolder taste. Pair it with one of their extensive craft beer selections.
- Price: $
- Atmosphere: Lively pub atmosphere.
- Special Feature: Extensive craft beer list.
4. Maria's Ristorante: A Hidden Gem
Maria's is a smaller, less-known gem in Roxborough. Their calamari is a standout, featuring a unique breading that adds a delightful texture. They also offer a delicious lemon-garlic dipping sauce.
- Price: $
- Atmosphere: Cozy and intimate.
- Special Feature: Unique breading and lemon-garlic sauce.
5. The Corner Bistro: Neighborhood Favorite
The Corner Bistro is a neighborhood staple, offering consistently good food at reasonable prices. Their calamari is a safe bet, reliably crisp, tender, and generously portioned.
- Price: $
- Atmosphere: Casual, friendly neighborhood vibe.
- Special Feature: Great value for the price.
The Next 8: Exploring the Rest of Roxborough's Calamari Scene
The following eight restaurants also offer decent calamari, providing a variety of options to suit different tastes and preferences. Consider these as alternatives or for a change of pace.
- Giuseppe's Pizza: While primarily a pizza place, their calamari appetizer is surprisingly good.
- The Blue Moon Cafe: Offers calamari as part of their larger seafood menu.
- Roxborough Grill: A reliable choice for a classic calamari preparation.
- Henry's Tavern: Their calamari is often a special, so check their menu.
- Manny's Steaks: Surprisingly, some steak houses also offer calamari as an appetizer.
- The Green Parrot Pub: A local favorite with a solid calamari option.
- Anthony's Pizza: Another pizza place with decent calamari.
- La Bella Roma: Italian restaurant with a good calamari option.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Your Calamari
- Freshness: Look for restaurants that emphasize fresh ingredients.
- Preparation: Do you prefer lightly battered, heavily breaded, or something in between?
- Sauce: Marinara, lemon-garlic, spicy – the sauce can make or break the dish.
- Price: Set a budget before you start your calamari crawl.
- Atmosphere: Consider the type of dining experience you're looking for.
Conclusion: Your Roxborough Calamari Adventure Awaits!
Roxborough offers a diverse range of options for calamari lovers. This guide provides a starting point for your culinary exploration. Remember to check menus and reviews before heading out, and most importantly, enjoy your delicious calamari! Remember to let us know your favorites in the comments below!
