Calamari near me: Best Calamari restaurants in London

Calamari is an Italian word that is borrowed for Squid. Calamari is a name for Squid dishes. Squid is a sea creature, many people tangle that octopus, and Squid is the same. But these two aquatic animals are totally different from each other. Calamari is a customary title for Squid. The backbone and the circular system doesn’t present in a squid. Now it’s become worldwide famous seafood.  Many dishes are made of squid for instance Fried Calamari, salt and pepper squid, calamari, rings calamari, etc. Calamari prepares with fresh squid. For rings calamari dish the meat is directly cut in from the squid body in a round shape. The squid is full of proteins and less in fats. If you live in London so stay with us we will suggest you the calamari near me restaurants. You can get easily calamari whenever you crave them.

Calamari restaurants in London:

We will tell you about the best places in London where different calamari restaurants are situated; so let’s begin!

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Current Landscape: Calamari Dining in London for 2025

The calamari scene in London has evolved significantly since this post was first published. In 2025, sustainability has become the driving force behind seafood consumption, with over 65% of London restaurants now sourcing squid from MSC-certified sustainable fisheries according to the Marine Stewardship Council’s latest report. The farm-to-table movement has reached seafood, with innovative chefs showcasing traceable calamari dishes where you can scan a QR code to learn about the squid’s origin.

Cultural fusion continues to reshape London’s calamari offerings. Peruvian-Japanese Nikkei cuisine has brought exciting new preparations like tiradito-style calamari with tiger’s milk marinade to the city. Meanwhile, the Korean trend has introduced gochujang-glazed fried calamari at trendy spots across Shoreditch. Plant-based alternatives have also entered the market, with several restaurants now offering convincing mushroom-based “calamari” for vegetarian diners.

Enhanced Insights: Expert Recommendations for 2025

The Sustainability Factor

Leading seafood chef Marco Pierre White Jr. advises, “In 2025, the most responsible way to enjoy calamari is to look for restaurants serving Loligo squid caught in UK waters rather than imported varieties. The shorter supply chain means fresher product and lower carbon footprint.” Many top London spots now highlight their local sourcing in menu descriptions.

Texture Innovation

Modern preparations are moving beyond the classic fried rings. Food trend analyst Sarah Johnson notes, “We’re seeing more chefs utilize the entire squid – tentacles for crispy texture contrast, bodies for tender morsels, and even ink for dramatic plating. The best menus now offer textural journeys in single dishes.”

Practical Application: Maximizing Your Calamari Experience

For the ideal 2025 calamari outing, start by checking restaurant sustainability credentials on apps like Seafood Watch or the Good Fish Guide. Midweek lunches often offer the best value, with several high-end spots running £15-£20 set menus featuring calamari starters. When ordering, ask about preparation methods – the most innovative kitchens now use sous-vide for perfect tenderness before flash-frying.

Consider pairing your calamari with London’s excellent local beverages. Several craft breweries now produce squid-ink stouts that complement fried calamari beautifully, while urban wineries offer crisp pet-nats that cut through rich preparations. For budget-friendly options, check out Maltby Street Market on weekends where emerging chefs serve creative calamari bites for under £10.

FAQ Section

What’s the difference between calamari and squid?

While often used interchangeably, “calamari” specifically refers to prepared squid dishes in Mediterranean cuisine, whereas “squid” is the general term for the sea creature. In 2025 menus, you’ll see both terms used depending on the restaurant’s culinary tradition.

Is calamari healthy to eat regularly?

Nutritionists confirm squid is high in protein and low in fat, making it a healthy choice when not heavily fried. New 2025 preparations often feature grilled or ceviche-style options for health-conscious diners.

How can I identify fresh calamari?

Look for firm, slightly translucent flesh with a clean ocean smell. Many London restaurants now display whole fresh squid at raw bars or open kitchens so diners can assess quality visually.

What’s the best way to try calamari for first-timers?

Start with classic fried calamari rings at an established seafood spot like J Sheekey before exploring more adventurous preparations. Several restaurants now offer “calamari flights” with multiple preparations for sampling.

Are there seasonal considerations for calamari?

While available year-round, UK squid is at its peak from late summer through autumn. Some high-end restaurants now feature seasonal calamari specials highlighting these prime months.

How has inflation affected calamari prices?

While costs have risen, calamari remains one of the more affordable seafood options. Expect to pay £8-£12 for starters at mid-range restaurants, with premium versions reaching £15-£18 at top establishments.

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The first best place for the best calamari restaurants in London is Busaba Ethai, Wardour Street of Saho Street in London. Four restaurants are present in that street where you can get seafood and calamari. The restaurant’s names are as follow;

• Mary Gotauco
• Gela Kappa
• Dilay Kibar

The next one is also present in Busaba Eathai, Bird Street of Marylebone Street in London. You will find three Thai restaurants there. And get your yummy calamari from;

• Ravi Patel
• S Marks the Spots
• Elisa

Our next street is Upper Street of Martin’s Ln, present in Dishoom London. On this street, you will get 3 Indian calamari Restaurants their names are as follow. Read more about  Recipe for Crown fried Chicken with Tarragon Butter.

• New York Habitat
• Rusty D
• Neha Narula

Now I will enlighten you about the Brook’s Mews road Le Petite Maison London Calamari restaurants Mayfair. These are French restaurants the names of the restaurants are as follow;

• Nora K
• S
• MeeMoo A

These all places are famous for their calamari dishes and for other seafood just stay with us and read and find your location and go for a fabulous evening in any Calamari near me. So the next place for calamari is Sale e Pepe London present on Pavilion Road you will find Italian restaurants Kensington & Chelsea, in this area the names of Italian calamari restaurants are;

• AlMaha R
• Lisa Hayward
• Meshael

The 6^th best place for Calamari is Aubaine London Oxford Street 2^nd floor French calamari restaurants Marylebone are situated there. The names of the restaurants are;

• ReRe Alnamrooti
• Noha AlRajhi

The 7^th best place for calamari is COYA London the restaurants are situated on Piccadilly “Old Park Lane”. These are Latin American Restaurants, Mayfair their names are;

• Andrew Sheppard
• Nabil Bazzari
• Irmak Yucel

Novikov is on number 8^th, it is situated on Berkeley Street of London; here Asian calamari restaurants Mayfair are present. The names of restaurants are as follow;

• Mona AlTurief
• Hamoud AlDabbous

Now its Veit Food turns, it is situated in Wardour Street in London. These are Vietnamese Restaurant Chinatown their names are;

• V Moschetta
• Tim Bush
• Eilliott Poppel

I suggested very famous calamari restaurants which are situated in London and they are the best Calamari Restaurants in London. If you live in these areas or you are visiting the streets of London then don’t miss the chance to eat the world’s best calamari dishes from these restaurants. Every restaurant is famous for its dishes and tastes so if you are looking for calamari near me restaurants then visit these and enjoy your meal.

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London’s calamari scene in 2025 is more vibrant than ever, offering everything from crispy fried classics to innovative seafood fusion dishes. Whether you’re craving a casual bite at a cozy pub or an upscale dining experience, the city’s top spots—like The Seafood Bar, Salt & Squid, and Octopus Garden—deliver unforgettable flavors. Sustainability and creativity continue to shape menus, ensuring every bite is both delicious and responsibly sourced.

Looking ahead, expect even more exciting twists on calamari as chefs experiment with global flavors and plant-based alternatives. If you haven’t explored London’s best calamari spots yet, now’s the perfect time to dive in. Book a table, gather some friends, and savor the taste of the sea.

Have a favorite calamari spot we missed? Share your top picks in the comments or tag us on social media—we’d love to hear from you! Hungry for more seafood guides? Subscribe to our newsletter for the latest culinary trends and hidden gems.

People Also Ask

What’s the best way to enjoy calamari in London?
The best way is to try a mix of styles—classic fried, grilled, or even calamari tacos—at top-rated spots like Salt & Squid or The Seafood Bar.

Are there vegan calamari options in London?
Yes! Many restaurants, like Octopus Garden, now offer plant-based calamari made from mushrooms or konjac root.

Which London neighborhoods have the best calamari?
Soho, Borough Market, and Shoreditch are hotspots, each offering unique takes on this seafood favorite.

How do I know if calamari is sustainably sourced?
Look for restaurants with