Casablanca — Review by Tastemade
Venice, United States — Mexican Seafood
Casablanca is a legendary family-owned Mexican seafood restaurant in Venice that has perfected the art of calamari steak over 40 years. The signature dish is a whole calamari breaded and fried milanesa-style, created by the founder as an innovative alternative to shellfish-restricted dietary needs in the neighborhood. Third-generation owner Robert Lopez continues the tradition of this word-of-mouth favorite.
What was great: The signature calamari steak - a breaded and fried whole calamari prepared like milanesa, tender and flavorful. The restaurant's rich history and family legacy spanning 40 years with three generations of ownership.
What could improve: Nothing mentioned
The Dishes
The undisputed star of Casablanca is the calamari steak, a dish so unique and beloved that it has become the restaurant's defining specialty. The preparation involves taking whole calamari and breading it in the same manner as a traditional milanesa, creating a crispy exterior while keeping the tender squid inside intact. According to owner Robert Lopez, the process requires a specific type of calamari sourced from specialized suppliers - not just any calamari will work for this preparation. The result is a revelation for those trying it for the first time, transforming what many consider an intimidating ingredient into something absolutely addictive.
The Experience
Casablanca embodies the warmth and authenticity of a true family establishment. Third-generation owner Robert Lopez carries forward the vision of his grandfather, who established this Venice institution 40 years ago. The restaurant's atmosphere reflects its deep roots in the community, with a casual, unpretentious vibe that welcomes diners to simply enjoy the food without overthinking it. The family's motto says it all: just get the calamari steak and be quiet, implying the dish speaks for itself.
Value & Pricing
While specific pricing is not detailed in the video, the restaurant represents excellent value for a 40-year-old family establishment offering a truly unique and memorable dining experience centered around their signature innovation.
Notable Moments
My grandfather used to live in Ensenada and they had abalone. They would eat milanesa sandwiches. So he understood the breading process. When he came to LA, he realized in the beginning of this neighborhood is Venice, a lot of Orthodox Jewish, no shellfish, nothing. So he got the calamari.
He literally was like a mad scientist pounding it, getting different calamari. He introduced this in 1980.
Just get it and be quiet. Literally what we tell people. Just eat it.
The Verdict
Casablanca is an absolute must-visit for anyone interested in authentic, innovative Mexican seafood cuisine. The calamari steak represents a masterclass in turning humble ingredients into legendary dishes through creativity, persistence, and family tradition. This restaurant is best for adventurous eaters willing to trust in a 40-year track record of excellence and for those who appreciate genuine, word-of-mouth establishments that have earned their reputation the old-fashioned way.