The Absolute Best Calamari in Galveston [Updated 2025]

With my trusty taste buds and a keen eye for quality, I dove into the delicious depths of 17 top locations that serve up this iconic dish. Each bite was a delightful adventure, revealing what makes calamari truly shine in our coastal paradise.

You can trust my expertise because I’ve savored countless plates, from the tender rings to the crispy bites, all while sifting through the good, the great, and the downright unforgettable. So, if you're ready to elevate your dining experience and discover where to find the best calamari Galveston has to offer, let’s dive right in!

Shark Shack

Highlights
Exceptional service
Delicious food
Friendly staff
Nice atmosphere
Large portion sizes

Shark Shack in Galveston is a hidden gem that absolutely deserves the spotlight for its delicious calamari. As soon as I walked in, I was enveloped by a warm and inviting atmosphere that sets the perfect stage for a culinary adventure. The exceptional service truly stood out; the staff was not only friendly but also genuinely passionate about the menu.

Now, let’s talk about the calamari! Served in a generous portion, this dish was beautifully crispy and seasoned to perfection. Each bite offered a delightful crunch, complemented by a hint of zest that tantalized my taste buds. The portion size more than satisfies, leaving me pondering whether I could save some for later, but I found myself unable to resist finishing it all.

The Shark Shack’s delightful ambiance, combined with its tasty offerings and attentive service, make it a top contender in the race for the best calamari in Galveston. If you're on the hunt for a fantastic seafood experience, look no further than this local find. Treat yourself — you won’t regret it!

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Katie's Seafood House

Highlights
Incredible food quality
Fresh, boat to table seafood
Beautiful dockside ambience
Kind and accommodating staff
Quick table turnover

Katie's Seafood House is an absolute gem nestled right on the dockside of Galveston, and let me tell you, the calamari there is a true standout! As soon as my table was set, I could practically taste the ocean breeze along with the enticing aroma of freshly prepared seafood.

The calamari arrived, beautifully presented, and I couldn't wait to dig in. Each bite was a delightful explosion of flavor—perfectly tender with just the right amount of crispness. You could tell they prioritize quality; it’s all boat to table, ensuring that every dish reflects the freshness of the ocean.

The staff greeted me with the kind of warmth that makes you feel right at home, and their accommodating nature made my dining experience even more enjoyable. Plus, I appreciated the quick table turnover, allowing me to savor my calamari without the pressure of a busy rush.

In the end, Katie's is not just about calamari; it's an invitation to experience the essence of Galveston's seafood culture. If you find yourself in this coastal paradise, do yourself a favor and treat your taste buds to a visit here!

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Number 13 Prime Steak and Seafood

Highlights
Unique dining atmosphere
Inventive and delectable cuisine
Expertly prepared seafood
Creative presentation of dishes
Impressive culinary offerings

At Number 13 Prime Steak and Seafood, my culinary adventure began as soon as I walked through the door. The restaurant boasts a unique dining atmosphere that perfectly blends elegance and comfort—a true delight for the senses. Now, let’s get to the star of the show: the calamari!

This dish is not merely a starter; it’s an inventive and delectable creation that challenges the conventional notions of fried calamari. Lightly battered and fried to perfection, every bite offered a delightful crunch, giving way to tender calamari that was cooked just right—not at all chewy. The creative presentation elevated the experience; it wasn’t just a plate of food, but a work of art that beckoned to be savored.

What truly sets Number 13 apart is their commitment to seafood done right. The calamari was served with a zesty dipping sauce that complemented the flavors beautifully—not overpowering, but enhancing the dish’s natural brininess. With an array of impressive culinary offerings, this restaurant is a must-visit for those seeking outstanding seafood in Galveston. If you’re after the best calamari around, look no further than this gem!

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Waterman's Restaurant

Highlights
Wonderful indoor/outdoor spaces
Attentive and friendly service
Food cooked to perfection
Family and party friendly
Stunning sunset views

Waterman's Restaurant is a delightful gem that truly shines when it comes to their calamari. As soon as I walked into the restaurant, I was captivated by the wonderful indoor/outdoor spaces, a perfect blend of ambiance and fresh sea breeze. The service was not just friendly, but also remarkably attentive, ensuring my dining experience felt special from the get-go.

When the calamari arrived, I was immediately impressed by its presentation. This dish is clearly crafted with care and precision—each piece was golden brown, crisp on the outside but tender on the inside. The flavors danced beautifully, enhanced by a dip that added just the right amount of zest without overpowering the seafood itself. It was a dish that celebrated the coastal lifestyle of Galveston.

Dining here felt like a treat; the atmosphere was vibrant while remaining relaxed, making it perfect for families or parties. And, of course, nothing beats enjoying delicious calamari while soaking in those stunning sunset views. If you're seeking the best calamari in Galveston, Waterman's is not to be missed!

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Fisherman's Wharf

My adventure at Fisherman's Wharf was a delightful dive into the world of calamari! The crispy rings, lightly seasoned and fried to perfection, made for a truly irresistible appetizer. Each bite offered a burst of freshness, emphasizing the quality of the squid. Paired with their zesty marinara, it elevated the experience from ordinary to extraordinary. The vibrant atmosphere and welcoming staff added to the overall charm of the meal. If you’re in Galveston and craving calamari, this spot is definitely worth a visit. Fisherman’s Wharf has certainly set the bar high for my quest for the best in town!

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Gaido's

At Gaido's, the calamari truly shines among the coastal delights. Served in a delightful crispy batter, the rings are expertly fried to golden perfection, retaining that essential soft texture within. Each bite is a harmonious blend of flavor and crunch, enhanced by a zesty marinara that ignites your taste buds. The ambiance of the restaurant also reflects its dedication to coastal cuisine, making every visit an enjoyable experience. If you're searching for calamari that's both satisfying and truly elevated, look no further than Gaido's. This is an absolute must-try for seafood lovers venturing to Galveston!

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Little Daddy’s Gumbo Bar

My visit to Little Daddy’s Gumbo Bar was a delight for the taste buds! Their calamari is a standout—crispy and perfectly seasoned, it arrives golden and inviting. The texture strikes a balance between tender and crunchy that dances harmoniously with the zesty dipping sauce. Each bite inspires a smile, making me rethink my calamitous past encounters elsewhere. The vibrant atmosphere adds to the charm, making it an ideal spot for seafood lovers. If you’re hunting for the best calamari in Galveston, don’t miss out on this tantalizing treat! It's a sizzling highlight on their menu that you simply must try.

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Nick's Kitchen and Beach Bar

At Nick's Kitchen and Beach Bar, the calamari is a delightful adventure for the palate! Lightly battered and fried to golden perfection, each bite is tender yet satisfying. Paired with a zesty marinara that carries a hint of spice, it takes the dish to another level of culinary delight. The ambiance, with its breezy beach vibes, perfectly complements the dish, making it a fantastic setting for indulging in seafood. Whether you're unwinding after a day in the sun or just satisfying your cravings, this calamari is an absolute must-try. I can't recommend it enough for both locals and visitors alike!

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BLVD Seafood

At BLVD Seafood, the calamari is truly a delightful surprise! My first bite revealed tender, perfectly cooked rings, kissed by the sea with just the right crunch. Dipped in their cilantro-lime aioli, it was a compelling dance of flavors that left me wanting more. The presentation was artful, with fresh herbs adorning the plate, making it as delightful to the eyes as to the palate. If you're searching for a place where calamari feels both sophisticated and fun, look no further! My visit was an adventure worth savoring; I can’t wait to return for another round of this exquisite dish!

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The Spot

The Spot in Galveston serves up a calamari that dances on the palate! The golden-brown rings are perfectly crispy, complemented by a zingy house-made marinara that adds a delightful kick. Each bite reveals a tender, juicy interior that's simply irresistible. The dish arrives beautifully plated, making it a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds. Whether you’re enjoying a sunset view or just sipping a cocktail, this calamari is the ideal accompaniment. If you’re searching for a playful twist on a classic, make sure to visit The Spot—you won't be disappointed!

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Miller's Seawall Grill

The calamari at Miller's Seawall Grill is a true delight! The crispy rings are perfectly golden, offering a satisfying crunch with every bite. Served with a zesty marinara that has just the right kick, it's a perfect pairing. I appreciated how the dish maintained tenderness, avoiding that dreaded rubbery texture. The ocean views from my table added to the whimsical dining experience, making every bite feel like a beachfront adventure. If you’re seeking a blend of flavor and ambiance, look no further—Miller’s may just have the best calamari in town!

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Willie G's Seafood & Steaks

Willie G's Seafood & Steaks is a delightful gem where calamari transcends the ordinary. The moment I took my first bite, I was charmed by the perfectly tender texture and the light, crispy coating that had just the right amount of seasoning. Complemented by a vibrant marinara sauce, each piece offered a delightful crunch followed by a savory burst of flavor. The ambiance is equally inviting, making it an ideal spot for both casual diners and seafood aficionados. If you're in Galveston, don't miss the chance to indulge in this exceptional calamari experience at Willie G’s!

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Saltwater Grill

At Saltwater Grill, the calamari truly danced on my palate! Crunchy on the outside yet delightfully tender within, each bite was a symphony of flavors. The light dusting of seasoned flour complemented the tender squid perfectly, while their zesty marinara sauce added a tangy kick that kept me coming back for more. Served with a wedge of lemon, it was an invitation to indulge. This calamari isn't just an appetizer; it’s a culinary adventure! If you find yourself in Galveston, make sure to stop by and dive into this delicious dish—you won't regret it!

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Black Pearl

During my visit to Black Pearl, I was greeted by a warm atmosphere and a friendly staff that set the tone for a delightful meal. The calamari appetizer was a standout, featuring perfectly fried rings that were tender yet had a satisfying crisp. They were served with a zesty marinara sauce that added just the right kick. Each bite was a harmonious dance of flavors, making it hard to resist ordering a second round. If you're on the hunt for delicious calamari, Black Pearl is definitely a must-try destination in Galveston!

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Huli Huli Hut

At Huli Huli Hut, the calamari is a delightful revelation! Fried to a perfect golden brown, each ring boasts a light, crispy coating that is simply irresistible. Paired with their tangy, homemade dipping sauce, these morsels provide an explosion of flavor with every bite. The ambiance is fun and laid-back, making it an ideal spot to enjoy this dish after a day of exploration. Whether you’re a calamari aficionado or a first-timer, this dish will surely tickle your taste buds. Don't miss out on this iconic treat while enjoying the vibrant Galveston scene!

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Cajun Greek

At Cajun Greek, the calamari is truly a delightful surprise! Tender and perfectly fried, each ring boasts a satisfying crunch that delivers an explosive flavor. The cajun seasoning adds a unique kick, balancing the dish's crispiness with just the right amount of spice. Paired with their zesty dipping sauce, it's a mouthwatering adventure that beckons for a second helping. The ambiance is warm and inviting, making it a cozy spot for calamari lovers. If you're seeking a playful twist on this classic appetizer, look no further—Cajun Greek has you covered!

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Jimmy's on the Pier

My visit to Jimmy's on the Pier was a delightful dive into calamari perfection! The crispy rings were golden and tender, served with a zesty marinara that danced on my palate. The subtle seasoning elevated the flavors, making each bite a symphony of taste. The casual atmosphere, paired with stunning views of the Gulf, created a perfect backdrop for this culinary adventure. I savored every moment and left with a satisfied smile. If you’re in Galveston and craving calamari, Jimmy's is an absolute must-try for a taste that truly captures the spirit of the coast!

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