Finding the perfect calamari can be a quest, especially in a city brimming with culinary options like Syracuse. This guide dives deep into the best 15 spots in Downtown Syracuse serving up this delectable fried seafood. We'll explore what makes each restaurant unique and help you choose the perfect place for your next calamari craving.
Top Calamari Choices in Downtown Syracuse
This list isn't ranked—all these establishments offer excellent calamari! The "best" choice depends on your individual preferences.
Italian-American Classics with a Calamari Twist
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Pastabilities: Known for its classic Italian-American fare, Pastabilities offers a crispy, lightly-breaded calamari that's a perfect appetizer. Their marinara sauce complements the calamari beautifully. The portions are generous, making it a great value.
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Dinosaur Bar-B-Que: While primarily known for its barbecue, Dinosaur surprisingly has some seriously tasty calamari. Their version is a bit spicier than others on this list, with a nice kick that complements the tender calamari.
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Altovino's Restaurant: A Syracuse staple, Altovino's delivers a consistently good calamari experience. Their calamari is lightly fried and served with a lemon wedge and a simple, yet effective, dipping sauce. It's a testament to the quality of their ingredients.
Modern Takes on a Seafood Staple
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The Marriott Syracuse Downtown: The hotel's restaurant offers a refined calamari experience. Expect expertly prepared calamari with a creative twist, perhaps a unique dipping sauce or a slightly different breading. It's a perfect choice for a more upscale dining occasion.
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The Sedgwick's: This gastropub delivers elevated pub fare, and their calamari is no exception. It's often prepared with interesting accompanying elements, such as a spicy aioli or a different vegetable medley, showcasing a more modern approach to a traditional dish.
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Francesca's: This restaurant emphasizes fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, which is reflected in the quality of their calamari. Expect a lighter, healthier version than some of the other options, still crispy, but not overly greasy.
Casual Spots with Surprisingly Great Calamari
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Apizza: Known for its pizza, Apizza also has a surprisingly delicious calamari appetizer. It’s a simple preparation, focusing on the quality of the calamari itself, and proving that sometimes, simple is best.
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Michael's Little Italy: Another classic Italian spot, Michael's offers a dependable calamari dish, perfect for a casual meal with friends or family. The portion size is usually substantial, and the price point makes it accessible for most budgets.
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Owen's Oyster House: While oysters take center stage, their calamari is worth a try. It’s often served with an interesting dipping sauce and often features locally-sourced calamari.
Hidden Gems and Unexpected Finds
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Saltine Warrior: This bar features a creative menu with surprises. Check their current menu as their calamari offering might change seasonally, making each visit an adventure.
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Syracuse University: Check the on-campus eateries near the SU campus. Depending on the time of year, the campus dining halls and restaurants often offer unique calamari dishes.
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The Regional Market: This location offers various vendors, and you're likely to discover different takes on calamari. It’s great for exploring diverse options within a single location.
Going Beyond Downtown Syracuse (But Close Enough!)
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Caruso's Italian Restaurant: A bit outside the immediate downtown area, but close enough to warrant inclusion, Caruso's serves up high-quality, traditional calamari. Their family-owned recipe is a local favorite.
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Cortland Ale House: Located just a short drive from Downtown Syracuse, Cortland Ale House offers a tasty calamari selection that’s worth a visit if you’re willing to venture slightly outside the city center.
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Cooper's Town: Another option slightly outside of the immediate downtown core, Cooper's Town offers a classic calamari preparation, providing a reliable choice for those willing to extend their search.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Your Calamari
- Breading: Do you prefer a light and crispy breading, or something thicker and more substantial?
- Sauce: Do you want a classic marinara, a spicy aioli, or something more unique?
- Price: Calamari prices can vary greatly depending on the restaurant and the portion size.
- Atmosphere: Are you looking for a casual pub setting, a fine-dining experience, or something in between?
Conclusion: Your Downtown Syracuse Calamari Adventure Awaits!
Downtown Syracuse offers a diverse range of calamari options, catering to every taste and budget. This guide provides a starting point for your culinary journey. Remember to check restaurant websites and menus for current offerings and specials. Happy eating!
