Calamari in Orlando

Calamari at Vincenzo Cucina Italiana

There are two kinds of calamari you run into at restaurants. There is the rubbery, pre-frozen kind that comes out of a bag and tastes like the fryer oil it was cooked in. Then there is calamari fritti done the Italian way, where the squid is lightly coated, fried until golden, and served with the right texture and flavor to actually make you want another piece. Vincenzo Cucina Italiana on International Drive serves the second kind.

Calamari fritti is one of the most popular appetizers at Vincenzo, and it has been on the menu since the restaurant opened in 2014. It is the kind of starter that sets the tone for the rest of the meal. Order it with a cocktail during happy hour or as the opening course before handmade pasta and USDA Prime steaks. Over 4,000 guests have left reviews, and the appetizers are frequently mentioned as a highlight.

The Appetizer Menu

Calamari fritti is just one part of a full appetizer menu at Vincenzo. The starters are designed to share and to set the pace for dinner. Whether you are starting with something light like burrata or something with more crunch like calamari, the appetizers are made with the same care as the main courses. Everything is prepared fresh in-house.

From the Menu

• ✦ Calamari fritti
• ✦ Burrata with fresh accompaniments
• ✦ Bruschetta with ripe tomatoes and basil
• ✦ Lobster bisque
• ✦ Handmade pasta made fresh daily
• ✦ USDA Prime filet mignon, New York Strip, Bone-In Ribeye
• ✦ Italian wines, craft cocktails, draft beer
• ✦ Tiramisu and Italian desserts made in-house

Happy Hour and Cocktails

Calamari and happy hour are a natural combination. Happy hour at Vincenzo runs Tuesday through Friday from 5 to 7 PM. Monday happy hour runs all night until close. Wine Down Wednesday features special wine pricing all evening. Martini Tuesday offers featured martinis during happy hour. Draft beers, wines by the glass, and craft cocktails are all available. Start with calamari fritti and a drink, and let the evening build from there.

Location and Parking

Vincenzo is located at 8025 International Drive, Orlando, FL 32819, near ICON Park, Pointe Orlando, and the Orange County Convention Center. Open seven days a week from 5 to 10 PM with complimentary valet parking every evening. Whether you are visiting Orlando or live locally, calamari and cocktails at Vincenzo make for an easy, enjoyable start to dinner.

Private Dining and Groups

Vincenzo offers private dining, group dining, and full restaurant buyouts. The private dining room seats groups for corporate events, birthday dinners, rehearsal dinners, and family celebrations with custom menus and dedicated staff.