A Calamari Comparative on a Bike

If you live on the east side, odds are you have tasted a Calimari Appetizer or two.  Each with it's own flavor and presentation, however, some stand out above the rest.

On a recent date-night-bike-tour (My husband and I often ride our bikes to different restaurants and bars in the summer time and enjoy the exercise, outdoor seating, appetizers and cocktails. It is so fun and I highly recommend it.) We stopped at on Mack Avenue in Grosse Pointe Woods to have an appetizer and a beverage on their patio.  We ordered their Calamari Arrabbiata.  Oh. My. Gosh.

The calamari was meaty, the breading was golden and crispy, but not too much, the sauce was a light creamy garlic and with slightly spicy red and yellow peppers.  It was the best calamari I have ever eaten. I enjoyed it with a glass of Chianti, however, I think a Pinot Grigio would pair nicely.

Yes, you can get your calamari elsewhere and it is still good. Fishbones on 9 Mile and Jefferson in St. Clair Shores, has a great calamari appetizer.  Order it with their remulade sauce that is served with their Alagator Voodoo (also good, tastes like chicken ).

also has a great Calamari Fritti appetizer that is served with their famous ammoglio sauce.  You can order a portion for one or two and it is a nice size.

And, if you travel west of Gratiot and find yourself in Royal Oak, Bastone Brewry on Main Street has great calamari and the best part, they have the same calamari appetizer on their children,s menu ($2 less than the adult appetizer and the same size), which is great, because I have a 7-year-old who loves calamari.

Calamari is a fantastic finger food. Go enjoy some today. Ride your bike.