Finding the perfect calamari can be a culinary quest. This guide dives deep into the best spots in Greater Uptown Houston, ensuring your next calamari experience is unforgettable. We've scoured reviews, considered freshness, and tasted our way through to bring you this definitive list. Whether you prefer crispy, tender, or spicy, we've got you covered. Let's get started on this delicious adventure!
Exceptional Calamari Experiences in Uptown Houston
Uptown Houston boasts a vibrant culinary scene, and calamari is no exception. Several restaurants offer exceptional variations of this classic dish, catering to diverse tastes and preferences. This list prioritizes quality, freshness, and overall dining experience.
1. The Rustic: Elevated Comfort Food with a Twist
The Rustic consistently delivers high-quality calamari. Their version often features a crispy, golden-brown breading, tender calamari, and a flavorful dipping sauce that perfectly complements the dish. The ambiance is lively, making it an excellent choice for a casual night out with friends. Their commitment to fresh ingredients is evident in the taste.
- Key Feature: Crispy breading, generous portion size.
2. State Fare Kitchen & Bar: Modern American with a Sophisticated Touch
State Fare's calamari is a testament to their dedication to upscale American cuisine. They offer a more sophisticated take on the dish, often presenting it with unique sauces and accompaniments. This spot is ideal for a more refined dining experience. The presentation is impeccable, showcasing the quality of the ingredients.
- Key Feature: Elevated presentation, unique sauces.
3. The Original Ninfa's on Navigation: Houston's Legendary Tex-Mex
While primarily known for Tex-Mex, Ninfa's surprises with its excellent calamari. This hidden gem showcases a different side of the restaurant, proving that their culinary prowess extends beyond their famous fajitas. Expect generous portions and a satisfyingly crunchy texture.
- Key Feature: Unexpected gem, generous portions, satisfying crunch.
4. Brio Tuscan Grille: Authentic Italian Charm
Brio brings the taste of Italy to Uptown Houston, and their calamari is no exception. This authentic Italian restaurant offers calamari prepared with traditional Italian techniques, often featuring simple but flavorful seasonings. This is the perfect spot for a taste of Italy right in Houston.
- Key Feature: Authentic Italian preparation, simple yet flavorful.
5. Perry's Steakhouse & Grille: Upscale Steakhouse with Excellent Seafood
Perry's is renowned for its premium steaks, but their calamari shouldn't be overlooked. This upscale establishment features a perfectly fried calamari, showcasing high-quality ingredients. The service is top-notch, making it an excellent choice for a special occasion.
- Key Feature: High-quality ingredients, impeccable service.
6. Cabo Bob's: A Taste of Coastal Mexico
Cabo Bob's brings the flavors of coastal Mexico to Uptown Houston. Their calamari is a testament to this, often featuring a unique blend of spices and preparation techniques reflecting their Mexican heritage. The lively atmosphere adds to the overall dining experience.
- Key Feature: Unique Mexican-inspired flavors, lively atmosphere.
7. Frank's Pizza: A Surprising Calamari Find
While primarily a pizza place, Frank's Pizza offers surprisingly delicious calamari. Their take on the dish is often more casual and fun, catering to a younger crowd, but still maintaining high quality.
- Key Feature: Unexpected find, casual and fun atmosphere.
8. Ocean Blue: Upscale Seafood Restaurant
As a seafood-focused establishment, Ocean Blue naturally excels in its calamari offerings. Expect impeccably fresh calamari, prepared with skill and precision. This is the place to go for seafood lovers who appreciate freshness above all else.
- Key Feature: Impeccably fresh calamari, seafood-focused menu.
9. Escalante's: Authentic Mexican Cuisine
Escalante's offers an authentic Mexican dining experience. While not always featuring calamari on their main menu, it sometimes appears as a special, offering a unique twist on the dish with Mexican spices and flavors.
- Key Feature: Authentic Mexican flavors (when available).
10. Hugo's: Refined Mexican Dining
Hugo's, known for its refined and upscale Mexican cuisine, may offer a sophisticated calamari preparation depending on their seasonal menu. This is a place for a special occasion or when you're seeking a high-end dining experience.
- Key Feature: Upscale Mexican cuisine (availability may vary).
11. Local Pour: Casual American Fare with a Focus on Fresh Ingredients
Local Pour, focusing on fresh ingredients, often presents a well-executed calamari dish. Their emphasis on quality shines through in their preparation, making this a solid choice for a satisfying and tasty meal.
- Key Feature: Emphasis on fresh ingredients, consistent quality.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Your Calamari
When selecting your perfect calamari, consider the following:
- Freshness: Look for restaurants known for using fresh, high-quality ingredients.
- Preparation: Do you prefer crispy, tender, or spicy calamari? Different restaurants offer different preparations.
- Sauce: The dipping sauce can significantly enhance the overall experience.
- Ambiance: Consider the atmosphere – are you looking for a casual or upscale dining experience?
- Price: Establishments vary in pricing.
Conclusion: Your Uptown Houston Calamari Adventure Awaits!
Greater Uptown Houston offers a diverse range of calamari options to satisfy every palate. This guide provides a starting point for your culinary journey; use it to plan your next delicious adventure and discover your new favorite calamari spot in Uptown Houston. Happy eating!
