Mực nướng — grilled squid — is a Vietnamese seafood staple that appears on menus at restaurants with strong grilled meat programs. The best versions feature fresh squid with a smoky char, often served with nước chấm or a salt-pepper-lime dipping sauce. In San Diego, with its proximity to the ocean, the squid quality is generally good.
Phuong Trang top-pick
Phuong Trang's grilled squid is a popular order among Vietnamese diners who know to look beyond the pho. The squid is properly charred with a smoky, slightly sweet glaze, and the texture is tender without being rubbery. Served with their house dipping sauce and rice, it's a satisfying seafood option that showcases the kitchen's grilling skills.
Pho Cow Cali best-value
Pho Cow Cali offers grilled squid that benefits from their kitchen's high-volume turnover — the squid is fresh and the grill is hot, resulting in proper char marks and tender meat. The portion is generous, and the accompanying herbs and dipping sauce complete the plate. A great option when you want something lighter than pho but still Vietnamese.
Bolsa Vietnamese Restaurant hidden-gem
Bolsa's grilled squid is a well-executed rendition, with the squid retaining its natural sweetness and picking up good char from the grill. The Vietnamese-style marinade adds depth without masking the squid's flavor. Served over rice or alongside vermicelli, it's a solid seafood choice in the Mira Mesa Vietnamese corridor.
Recipe for This Dish
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