Best Of Santa Cruz 2024 by Weeklys

WINNERS

Dr. John Grady

OUR SERVICES INCLUDE:

Weight Management

Nutritional Counseling

Corrective Exercise

Intimate Health

O’shot prp for Women’s Atrophy, Dryness and Pain

P’shot for prp for Men’s ED Shockwave Therapy

Incontinence Therapy

Hormone Replacement Therapy

Body Contouring

Skin Tightening

Cellulite Treatments

Trusculpt ID & Flex Emsculpt

Skin Renewal & Anti-Aging Treatments

Micro-Needling RF, Plasma

Firbroblasting, CO2 Laser

Laser Hair Removal

Chronic Pain Treatments

PEMF - Pulsed Electromagnetic Field Therapy

IV’s and Vitamin Injections

Body Work - Myofascial Release

Editor’s Note

Ateacher once told me to be careful with the word best. Once you declare something is at the top of the heap, you’ve set the bar so high that nothing else can contend. What if you find something better?

To this day, verbally, at least, I often overuse the word. I’ve probably been to hundreds of best concerts and had many, many best meals. They can’t all be best, right? But they feel that way at the moment.

shift. Nothing has taught me more about my neighbors and what our towns are really like. And there’s more drama than anything you’ll see on those fake TV cop shows.

BEST FREE DRAMA

CONTENTSCONTENTS

CONTENTS CONTENTS CONTENTS

FOOD & DRINK P8

SHOPPING & SERVICES P30

ARTS & CULTURE P50

MUSIC & NIGHTLIFE P56

COMMUNITY LIFE P64

HEALTH & RECREATION P68

EDITORS’ PICKS P82

That’s why I’m glad our Best Of Santa Cruz issue is a democracy. You vote on the things that are best.

For me, this issue has always been a coffee table keeper. I open it when I’m ready to find a new restaurant, entertainment spot, place to shop, hike or bike trail or workout class. It really is the best resource about life in Santa Cruz and I treasure it. I think you will too.

Meanwhile, I have some fun, free Best Of suggestions. BEST FREE WAY TO LEARN ABOUT YOUR COMMUNITY

Go on a police ride along. The local police and sheriff’s department will let you ride with an officer during their

STAFF

Head to the County Courthouse and watch trials. I’m always surprised at how few people know you can just sit in the audience and watch accused murderers, thieves and all sorts of criminals have their day in court. It’s real, it’s dramatic, it’s more intelligent and complex than TV portrays it. It’s a great way to see how the wheels of justice really turn.

BEST FREE PLACE TO IMPRESS OUT OF TOWN FRIENDS

Bring them to the country’s only Grateful Dead museum exhibit at UCSC’s Library. They can see artifacts and concert movies.

The best is here and yet to come.

BRAD KAVA | EDITOR

Thank You Santa Cruz!

FOOD & DRINK

winners

Appetizers

SHADOWBROOK

SILVER

THE CROW'S NEST

BRONZE

VENUS SPIRITS COCKTAILS & KITCHEN

Bagel

BAGELRY

SILVER

FIREFLY COFFEE HOUSE

BRONZE HOUSE OF BAGELS & CAFE

Bakery

GAYLE'S BAKERY & ROSTICCERIA

SILVER

COMPANION BAKESHOP

BRONZE

BUTTERY BAKERY

Bar Food

PARISH PUBLICK HOUSE

SILVER

SHADOWBROOK

BRONZE

VENUS SPIRITS COCKTAILS & KITCHEN

Barbecue

APTOS ST. BBQ

SILVER

MISSION ST. BARBEQUE

BRONZE

COLE'S BAR-B-Q

Bread

COMPANION BAKESHOP

SILVER

GAYLE'S BAKESHOP & ROSTICCERIA

BRONZE

MANRESA BREAD

Breakfast (Aptos/Soquel)

RED APPLE CAFE

SILVER

THE FARM BAKERY

BRONZE

CAFE & GIFTS, SUNRISE CAFE

CALIFORNIA GRILL

Breakfast (Capitola)

GAYLE'S BAKERY & ROSTICCERIA

SILVER

BUSY BEE'S CAFE & CATERING

BRONZE AVENUE CAFE

Breakfast (Santa Cruz)

ZACHARY'S

SILVER THE WALNUT AVENUE CAFE

BRONZE

HARBOR CAFE

Breakfast (Scotts Valley/SLV)

HEAVENLY ROADSIDE CAFE

SILVER

AUNTIE MAME'S

BRONZE

ROCKY'S CAFE

Brunch

HARBOR CAFE

SILVER

CHAMINADE RESORT & SPA

BRONZE SÜDA

PHOTO: TARMO HANNULA

FOOD & DRINK

VENUS SPIRITS COCKTAILS & KITCHEN

<<<

Burger

(Aptos/Soquel)

PARISH PUBLICK HOUSE

SILVER

BETTY BURGERS

BRONZE THE HIDEOUT

Burger (Capitola)

EAST END GASTROPUB

SILVER

SHADOWBROOK

BRONZE

THE SAND BAR

Burger (Santa Cruz)

BACK NINE GRILL & BAR

SILVER

BETTY BURGERS

BRONZE

JACK'S

Burger (Scotts Valley / SLV)

BRUNO'S BAR AND GRILL

SILVER

JT'S TWO DOORS

BRONZE

LAUGHING MONK BREWING & GASTROPUB

Burger (Watsonville)

WOODEN NICKEL BAR & GRILL

SILVER

FAT BOY BURGER AND GRILL

BRONZE

CALIFORNIA GRILL

Burrito (Aptos / Soquel)

EL CHIPOTLE TAQUERIA AND RESTAURANT

SILVER

TAQUERIA LOS GORDOS

BRONZE

MANUEL'S MEXICAN RESTAURANT

Burrito

(Capitola)

MIJO’S TAQUERIA

SILVER

TACOS MORENOS

BRONZE

EL TORO BRAVO

Burrito (Santa Cruz)

TACOS MORENOS

SILVER

EL PALOMAR

BRONZE

TAQUERIA LOS PERICOS

Burrito (Scotts Valley/SLV)

TAQUERIA LOS GALLOS

SILVER

TAQUERIA VALLARTA

BRONZE

LA CHIMICHANGA CANTINA

PHOTO: TARMO HANNULA

FOOD & DRINK

Burrito (Watsonville)

EL FRIJOLITO

SILVER

CILANTROS BRONZE

RANCH MILK MEXICAN GRILL

Calamari

THE CROW'S NEST

SILVER RIVA FISH HOUSE BRONZE SHADOWBROOK

Caterer

BUSY BEE'S CAFE AND CATERING

SILVER FIVE STAR CATERING BRONZE SHADOWBROOK

Cheap Eats

CHARLIE

HONG KONG

SILVER PRETTY GOOD ADVICE BRONZE CARPO'S RESTAURANT

Cheese Selection

SHOPPER'S CORNER

SILVER CHEESE SHOP 831 BRONZE STAFF OF LIFE

Chinese Cuisine

SPECIAL NOODLE

SILVER CANTON BRONZE THE RED PEARL

Chocolatier

MACKENZIES CHOCOLATES

SILVER DONNELLY CHOCOLATES BRONZE ASHBY CONFECTIONS

Clam Chowder

RIVA

SILVER

FISH HOUSE

STAGNARO BROS. BRONZE SHADOWBROOK

Coffeehouse (Independent)

UGLY MUG

SILVER ZIZZO'S COFFEEHOUSE BRONZE SANTA CRUZ COFFEE ROASTING

Cookies

PACIFIC COOKIE COMPANY

SILVER

GAYLE’S BAKERY & ROSTICCERIA BRONZE BUTTERY BAKERY

Deli

ZOCCOLI'S

SILVER GARDEN LIQUOR AND DELI BRONZE SEABRIGHT DELI

Desserts

(Bakery)

GAYLE’S BAKERY & ROSTICCERIA

SILVER BUTTERY BAKERY BRONZE THE FARM BAKERY, CAFE & GIFTS

Desserts

(Restaurant)

VIM DINING & DESSERTS

SILVER SHADOWBROOK BRONZE CHOCOLATE

Donut Shop

DUNLAP'S DONUTS

SILVER FERRELL’S DONUT SHOP BRONZE DONUT STATION

Falafel

ACHILLES BY THE SEA

SILVER ZAMEEN BRONZE FALAFEL OF SANTA CRUZ

Food Event

GRAZING ON THE GREEN

SILVER

CLAM CHOWDER COOK-OFF BRONZE GREEK FESTIVAL

Food Truck

SCRUMPTIOUS FISH AND CHIPS

SILVER PANA VENEZUELAN FOOD BRONZE COCOC THE FOOD TRUCK

French Fries

PARISH PUBLICK HOUSE

SILVER JACK’S BRONZE PRETTY GOOD ADVICE

Greek

NICK THE GREEK

SILVER

ACHILLES BY THE SEA BRONZE ZAMEEN Hawaiian Cuisine

HULA'S ISLAND GRILL

SILVER PONO HAWAIIAN KITCHEN & TAP BRONZE

MAKAI ISLAND KITCHEN & GROGGERY

Ice Cream

MARIANNE'S ICE CREAM

SCOOP SHOP

SILVER THE PENNY ICE CREAMERY BRONZE MISSION HILL COFFEE & CREAMERY

Kindness Respect Integrity

• Sciton Halo and BBL Hero Laser

• Restorative Facials

• Botox and Dysport

• Juvederm and RHA Fillers

• Elite CoolSculpting

• Potenza RF MicroNeedling

• Stem Cell & Exosome Therapy

• Safe Menopause Treatments

• Testosterone Replacement

• Semaglutide Weight Loss

• IV Therapy and Vitamin Shots

FOOD & DRINK

Indian Cuisine

AMBROSIA INDIA BISTRO

SILVER NAMASTE INDIAN CUISINE

BRONZE

ROYAL TAJ

Italian Cuisine

LILLIAN'S ITALIAN KITCHEN

SILVER TRAMONTI

BRONZE

LAGO DI COMO

Juice Bar/ Smoothies

AMAZON JUICES

SILVER

CAFE BRASIL

BRONZE

PLEASURE POINT JUICES

Kid-Friendly Eatery

CARPO'S RESTAURANT

SILVER (TIE)

EAST SIDE EATERY

WOODSTOCK PIZZA

Late-Night Eatery

MANUEL'S MEXICAN RESTAURANT

SILVER

CHARLIE HONG KONG

BRONZE WOODSTOCK PIZZA

Mexican Cuisine (Aptos/Soquel)

MANUEL'S MEXICAN RESTAURANT

SILVER

TORTILLA FLATS

BRONZE

EL CHIPOTLE TAQUERIA AND RESTAURANT

Mexican Cuisine (Capitola)

EL TORO BRAVO

SILVER MIJO'S BRONZE

MARGARITAVILLE

Mexican Cuisine (Santa Cruz) EL PALOMAR

SILVER

COPAL

BRONZE

TAQUERIA LOS PERICOS

Mexican Cuisine (Scotts Valley/SLV)

MAYA MEXICAN RESTAURANT

SILVER

LA CHIMICHANGA CANTINA

BRONZE

TAQUERIA VALLARTA

Mexican Cuisine (Watsonville)

CILANTROS

SILVER

JALISCO MEXICAN CUISINE

BRONZE

LA PERLA DEL PACIFICO

Middle Eastern

ARSLANS TURKISH STREET FOOD

SILVER

LAILI RESTAURANT BRONZE ZAMEEN

New Restaurant

THE MIDWAY

SILVER (TIE) AROMA

FIREFLY TAVERN

Outdoor Dining

THE CROW’S NEST

SILVER

SHADOWBROOK

BRONZE

LAILI RESTAURANT

BAGELRY

PHOTO: TARMO HANNULA

FOOD & DRINK

Patio Dining (Aptos/Soquel)

THE HIDEOUT

SILVER

BITTERSWEET BISTRO

BRONZE HOME

Patio Dining (Capitola)

SHADOWBROOK

SILVER

ZELDA'S

BRONZE

PARADISE BEACH GRILL

Patio Dining (Santa Cruz)

THE CROW’S NEST

SILVER LAILI RESTAURANT

BRONZE

MAKAI ISLAND KITCHEN & GROGGERY

Patio Dining (Scotts Valley/SLV)

LAUGHING MONK

BREWING & GASTROPUB

SILVER

HEAVENLY ROADSIDE CAFE

BRONZE

BRUNO'S BAR & GRILL

Patio Dining (Watsonville)

JALISCO MEXICAN CUISINE

SILVER CILANTROS BRONZE

ELLA'S AT THE AIRPORT

Pizza (Aptos/Soquel)

PIZZA MY HEART

SILVER MENTONE

BRONZE BUZZO

COMPANION BAKESHOP

Pizza (Capitola)

PIZZA MY HEART

SILVER

PLEASURE PIZZA

BRONZE

VILLAGE HOST PIZZA & GRILL

Pizza (Santa Cruz)

PIZZA MY HEART

SILVER WOODSTOCK PIZZA

BRONZE

BOOKIE'S PIZZA

Pizza (Scotts Valley/SLV)

THE PIZZA SERIES

SILVER MOUNTAIN MIKES BRONZE

BOULDER CREEK PIZZA & PUB

Pizza (Watsonville)

SLICE PROJECT

SILVER

CASSIDY'S PIZZA

BRONZE ROUND TABLE

Restaurant (Aptos)

THE HIDEOUT

SILVER MENTONE

BRONZE

CAFE SPARROW

Restaurant (Capitola)

SHADOWBROOK

SILVER TRESTLES BRONZE EAST END GASTROPUB

Restaurant (San Lorenzo Valley)

SCOPAZZI'S RESTAURANT & LOUNGE

SILVER AROMA BRONZE TROUT FARM INN

Restaurant (Santa Cruz)

VIM DINING & DESSERTS

SILVER OSWALD BRONZE THE CROW’S NEST

Restaurant (Scotts Valley)

BRUNO'S BAR & GRILL

SILVER OTORO SUSHI BRONZE

LAUGHING MONK BREWING & GASTROPUB

PHOTO: TARMO HANNULA

FOOD & DRINK

Seafood (Santa Cruz)

RIVA FISH HOUSE

SILVER

NEST

Seafood (Watsonville)

FISH HOUSE

SILVER LA

DEL PACIFICO

CALIFORNIA GRILL

Small Plates

BARCELONETA

SILVER

VENUS SPIRITS COCKTAILS & KITCHEN

BRONZE

SHADOWBROOK

Steak

SHADOWBROOK

SILVER

HINDQUARTER BAR & GRILLE

BRONZE

ALDERWOOD

Sushi/Japanese (Aptos/Soquel)

AKIRA SUSHI

SILVER

SUSHI GARDEN

Sushi/Japanese (Capitola)

SUSHI GARDEN

SILVER

GEISHA JAPANESE RESTAURANT & TEA HOUSE

BRONZE

MIYAKO JAPANESE RESTAURANT

Sushi/Japanese (Santa Cruz)

MOBO

SILVER

AKIRA SUSHI

BRONZE

SHOGUN JAPANESE RESTAURANT

Santa Cruz County’s Beloved Natural Food Grocer

Sushi/Japanese (Scotts Valley/SLV)

The one that started it all! A local landmark since 1969, Staff of Life changed the game when it was the first one out of the gates with a new philosophy of prioritizing all things healthy, organic, and sustainable. Browse the aisles to find the best natural foods in Santa Cruz County, experience the down-home service Staff of Life is famous for, and discover why we keep getting voted Best Natural Grocery Store.

OTORO SUSHI SILVER

FISH

Sushi/Japanese (Watsonville)

Best Natural Grocery Store & Vitamins for Over Ten Years!

SILVER Winner: Best Grocery Store (Local)

SILVER Winner: Best Produce

BRONZE Winner: Best Green Business

BRONZE Winner: Best Cheese Selection

AIMURA

GOLD Winner: Best Grocery Store (Natural)

GOLD Winner: Best Vitamins/Supplements

SILVER

RESTAURANT MIYUKI BRONZE

SUSHI GARDEN

Taqueria (Aptos/Soquel)

EL CHIPOTLE TAQUERIA AND RESTAURANT

nother year, another victory lap to celebrate winning top honors in the Natural Grocery Store category and the Vitamins/Supplements category, we’d like to extend a heartfelt thanks to the Santa Cruz and Watsonville communities. If you haven’t already, come in and discover all we do to keep earning your votes and earning your business.

SILVER

TAQUERIA LOS GORDOS

BRONZE

TORTILLA FLATS

Taqueria (Capitola)

TACOS MORENOS

SILVER MIJO’S TAQUERIA

TAQUERIA TEPEQUE

Taqueria (Santa Cruz)

LOS PERICOS MARKET

SILVER

TACOS MORENOS BRONZE

EL PALOMAR

Taqueria (Scotts Valley/SLV)

TAQUERIA VALLARTA

SILVER

TAQUERIA LOS GALLOS BRONZE

LA CHIMICHANGA CANTINA

Taqueria (Watsonville)

TAQUERIA LOS PERICOS

SILVER

EL FRIJOLITO

BRONZE

RANCH MILK MEXICAN GRILL

PHOTO: TARMO HANNULA

Keeping our community safe from sewage spills and keeping maintenance costs down are important. You can help by remembering this simple phrase: ‘Think Before You Flush. ’ Put trash where it belongs…in the trash.

Flushable does not mean ﬂushable! Flushable wipes clog sewer pipes. Wipes do not dissolve; even if you ﬂush just one, wipes collect in pumps and valves causing clogs.

SHOPPING & SERVICES

Todd Ivy Sales/Estimator

Bobbie Frandeen Sales/Estimator

Deborah Cypert Owner

SHOPPING & SERVICES

MCCARTY'S WINDOW FASHIONS

Bookshop

BOOKSHOP SANTA CRUZ

Auto Dealer

SANTA CRUZ TOYOTA

SILVER SANTA CRUZ SUBARU

BRONZE OCEAN HONDA

Auto Dealer (Watsonville)

CHEVROLET OF WATSONVILLE

SILVER

WATSONVILLE FORD LINCOLN BRONZE WATSONVILLE GMC

Auto Repair

SPECIALIZED AUTO

SILVER

BOBBY’S PIT STOP BRONZE CHANDLER AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR

Bank (Credit Union)

BAY FEDERAL CREDIT UNION

SILVER

SANTA CRUZ COMMUNITY CREDIT UNION

Bank

(Local Non-Credit Union)

SANTA CRUZ COUNTY BANK

SILVER MECHANICS BANK

SILVER TWO BIRDS BOOKS BRONZE BAD ANIMAL

Butcher

SHOPPER'S CORNER

SILVER FREEDOM MEAT LOCKERS BRONZE POINT BUTCHER SHOP

Car Wash

WHALERS CAR WASH

SILVER SPLASH CAR WASH BRONZE CRUZ CAR WASH

Carpet

Cleaning

QUALITY CARPET CARE & UPHOLSTERY CLEANING

SILVER PEACHY KLEEN CHEM-DRY BRONZE CARPET KING

Day Care

SIMCHA PRESCHOOL

SILVER

DISCOVERY PRESCHOOL

BRONZE

ROCKING HORSE RANCH

PHOTO: TARMO HANNULA

SHEN'S GALLERY

SHOPPING & SERVICES

Computer Repair

CLICK AWAY

SILVER

PLEASURE POINT COMPUTERS

BRONZE

USER FRIENDLY COMPUTING

Consignment

Clothing

THE CLOSET SHOPPER

SILVER CROSSROADS TRADING CO.

BRONZE

JET SET BOHEMIAN

Contractor

TALMADGE CONSTRUCTION

SILVER

TESTORFF CONSTRUCTION

BRONZE

THE BUILDERS COLLECTIVE Crystals

MOUNTAIN SPIRIT

SILVER MOON KISSED

BRONZE WORLD OF STONES AND MYSTICS

Custom Framing

LENZ ARTS

SILVER YORK FRAMING GALLERY

BRONZE FRAME CIRCUS

Dry Cleaners

MASTER CLEANERS

SILVER CLASSIC VAPOR DRY CLEANERS

BRONZE ALMAR CLEANERS

Eyewear

EYE Q OPTOMETRY

SILVER PLAZA LANE OPTOMETRY

BRONZE SITE FOR SORE EYES

Fabric

HARTS FABRIC

SILVER

BEVERLY'S BRONZE

SANTA CRUZ VAC & SEW

Feed Store

MOUNTAIN FEED AND FARM SUPPLY

SILVER WESTSIDE FARM AND FEED BRONZE

PET PALS DISCOUNT PET FOOD & SUPPLIES

Financial Planner

JACOB YOUNG FINANCIAL SERVICES

SILVER

RACHEL WEDEEN MORGAN STANLEY BRONZE

MARK A. GERBER EDWARD JONES

SAN LORENZO GARDEN CENTER

SILVER

DIG GARDENS

BRONZE THE GARDEN COMPANY

Gift Shop

ZINNIA'S GIFT BOUTIQUE

SILVER

BOTANIC AND LUXE

BRONZE

DIG GARDENS

Green Business

SHOPPER'S CORNER

SILVER ETHOS

BRONZE STAFF OF LIFE

Grocery Store (local)

SHOPPER'S CORNER

SILVER STAFF OF LIFE BRONZE

DELUXE FOODS OF APTOS

Grocery Store (natural)

STAFF OF LIFE

SILVER

SHOPPER'S CORNER

BRONZE NEW LEAF

Guitar Store

SYLVAN MUSIC

SILVER THE STARVING MUSICIAN BRONZE JANSEN MUSIC

Hair Salon

URBAN GROOVE HAIR SALON SILVER

LAVISH SALON & SPA

BRONZE

PHOENIX CAYTON HAIR

Hardware Store

OUTDOOR SUPPLY HARDWARE

SILVER

APTOS ACE HARDWARE BRONZE SAN LORENZO LUMBER AND HOME CENTERS

SHOPPING & SERVICES

Headshop

Home Decorating

WARMTH COMPANY

SILVER

BOTANIC AND LUXE BRONZE

STRIPE DESIGN SERVICES

Hotel

DREAM INN

SILVER HOTEL PARADOX BRONZE

CHAMINADE RESORT & SPA

House Cleaner

MAXIMA'S CLEANERS

SILVER CLEAN SPACE CLEANING BRONZE MERRY MAIDS

House Painter

PEPE LOPEZ PAINTING

SILVER

RON HUFF PAINTING BRONZE

MACHADO BROTHERS PAINTING

Hydroponic Supplier GROWGENERATION

SILVER MOUNTAIN FEED AND FARM SUPPLY

BRONZE SPECIALTY GARDEN SUPPLY Insurance

LYDIA HARVILLE— STATE FARM INSURANCE

SILVER

NAOMI ALBOR—HUIZAR-ALBOR INSURANCE AGENCY BRONZE ALESE GREENE—STATE FARM

STAFF OF LIFE

Interior Design

LORI HANNUM—SC41

SILVER MOSELLE MADESKO—COPPER DESIGN BRONZE STRIPE DESIGN SERVICES

Jewelry

DELL WILLIAMS

SILVER MOUNTAINSIDE BRONZE SUPER SILVER

Jewelry Repair

DELL WILLIAMS JEWELERS

SILVER

STEPHAN'S FINE JEWELRY

BRONZE TREASURES

Kids’ Clothing

HOPSCOTCH

SILVER MINI MINT

TOQUE BLANCHE

SILVER OUTSIDE-IN BRONZE SANTA CRUZ KITCHEN & BATH Landscaping

TERRA NOVA ECOLOGICAL LANDSCAPING

SILVER K & D LANDSCAPING BRONZE QUILICI GARDENING

Laser Hair Removal

PACIFIC COAST AESTHETICS

SILVER

ODY WORK BEAUTY LOUNGE MED SPA

BRONZE

REJUVENATE MEDI SPA & WELLNESS

Lawyer

FINE POINT LAW

SILVER

DINA HOFFMAN

BRONZE

BRONZE HOPES CLOSET Kitchen

TANYA M. RIDINO

PHOTO: TARMO HANNULA

SHOPPING & SERVICES

Life Coach

CAMILLE ELLIS

SILVER

SANDY JACQUARD

BRONZE

NICOLE DUKE

Lighting

RIVERSIDE LIGHTING & ELECTRIC

SILVER

ILLUMINÉE

BRONZE

OM GALLERY

Lingerie

CAMOUFLAGE

SILVER

AMOUREUSE

BRONZE

ROMANTIC NIGHTS FOR TWO

Mani/Pedi

TRACY NAILS

SILVER

OPAL SPA & BOUTIQUE

BRONZE

RED CARPET SALON

Massage School

FIVE BRANCHES UNIVERSITY

SILVER

CYPRESS HEALTH INSTITUTE

BRONZE

AMERICAN INSTITUTE OF MEDICAL MASSAGE

Men’s Clothing

PATRICK JAMES

SILVER

BERDELS

BRONZE

STRIPE

Men’s Shoes

SOCKSHOP AND SHOE COMPANY

SILVER

BECK’S SHOES

BRONZE

PATRICK JAMES

413 SEABRIGHT AVE. SANTA CRUZ

OPEN EVERYDAY

10 AM TO 2 AM

21+ ONLY

OUTDOOR PATIO

YACHT OPTIONAL

VOTED FAVORITE BAR AND PLACE TO PLAY POOL!

SHOPPING & SERVICES

CROSS COUNTRY MORTGAGE

SILVER

SANTA CRUZ LENDING GROUP

BRONZE

REVEST HOMES, INC

Music Instruction

MOUNTAIN MUSIC SCHOOL

SILVER

EVERYONE'S MUSIC SCHOOL

SILVER

MUSICALME

Musical Instruments

SYLVAN MUSIC

SILVER

THE STARVING MUSICIAN

BRONZE

JANSEN MUSIC

Outdoor Furniture Dealer

AMERICAN LEISURE PATIO

SILVER

OUTDOOR SUPPLY HARDWARE

BRONZE

SCARBOROUGH GARDENS

Pet Grooming

BED & BISCUITS GROOMINGDALES

SILVER

PAWSITIVE STYLES MOBILE GROOMING

BRONZE

ANIMAL HOUSE

Pet Sitting

BED & BISCUITS GROOMINGDALES

SILVER

WOOFPACK

BRONZE

PAULA'S PET PALS

Pet Store

PET PALS DISCOUNT PET FOOD & SUPPLIES

SILVER

APTOS FEED & PET SUPPLY

BRONZE

PET EMPORIUM

SHOPPER'S CORNER

PHOTO: TARMO HANNULA

SHOPPING & SERVICES

Portrait Photographer

DEVI

Pre-Owned Auto Dealer

THE ARGUS COMPANY SILVER

Produce

SHOPPER'S CORNER

SILVER

Real Estate Agency

DAVID LYNG REAL ESTATE SILVER

Real Estate Agent

LOREN MORSE— EXP REALTY

SILVER

ASSOCIATES

Real Estate Team

GRO REAL ESTATE

SILVER

BREZSNY ASSOCIATES

STROCK REAL ESTATE TEAM

Record Store

STREETLIGHT RECORDS

BRONZE

RECORDS

Recycle Right!

Runner-Up for Best Attorney in Santa Cruz Thank YOU!

Honored as the Runner-Up Best Attorney in Santa Cruz by Good Times readers, Tanya Harmony Ridino, the Executive Director of Senior Legal Services, expresses profound gratitude for this acknowledgment. Her unwavering dedication to the Access to Justice Movement and Senior Legal Services commitment to ensuring that the elderly are treated with care and respect and are not isolated or subjected to abuse or neglect underscores her career’s longtime commitment to service and advocacy.

In addition to their customary, free, in-person and telephonic individual legal assistance, Senior Legal Services is pleased to now also offer FREE legal outreach clinics at the Branciforte Library, London Nelson Center, Highlands Park Community and Senior Center and more. Ensuring those in need can access expert legal advice and support right in their neighborhood.

You are invited to celebrate this immense honor at Senior Legal Service's only beneﬁt event of the year, "Cirque de la Soiree". With live music from SambaDá and a delicious catered meal by Angela Blessing, we are excited to share this special evening as a tribute to our mission. For more information on workshops and Soiree tickets, please visit seniorlegal.org/events or scan the QR Code below.

SHOPPING & SERVICES

Roofers

KNOX ROOFING

SILVER

TURK THE ROOFER

BRONZE

DADDARIO ROOFING

Seafood (Market)

SILVER

GOODWILL

BRONZE

CAROLINE'S

Tires

Kids

CHILDISH

Video Game Shop

LEVEL

Vintage Clothing

MOON

Waxing

EUROPEAN

PACIFIC

Women’s Shoes

SOCKSHOP

BECK’S

ARTS & CULTURE

SHOPPER’S CORNER

Art Event

OPEN STUDIOS ART TOUR SILVER

Art Gallery (Retail)

M.K. CONTEMPORARY ART

SILVER

LILLE ÆSKE ARTHOUSE

BRONZE

ARTISANS & AGENCY

Artist (Local)

YESHE JACKSON

SILVER

Author (Local)

JONATHAN FRANZEN

SILVER LAURIE R. KING BRONZE NINA SIMON

Classical Music Group

SANTA CRUZ SYMPHONY

SILVER

SANTA CRUZ CHORALE

BRONZE

SANTA CRUZ CHAMBER PLAYERS

Dance Lessons (Studio)

TANNERY WORLD DANCE & CULTURAL CENTER

SILVER MOTION PACIFIC DANCE STUDIO

BRONZE

DANCEOGRAPHY SANTA CRUZ

Festival (Art/Film)

CAPITOLA ART & WINE FESTIVAL

SILVER

WATSONVILLE FILM FESTIVAL

BRONZE

BANFF CENTRE MOUNTAIN FILM FESTIVAL

Festival (Music)

SANTA CRUZ MOUNTAIN SOL FESTIVAL

SILVER

CABRILLO FESTIVAL OF CONTEMPORARY MUSIC

BRONZE

REDWOOD MOUNTAIN FAIRE

Kids’ Art Program

CAMP TANNERY ARTS WITH LINDA COVER

SILVER

STUDIO SPROUT

BRONZE

MON AMI ART STUDIOS

Mural/ Public Art

SHOPPER'S CORNER

SILVER (TIE)

WATSONVILLE BRILLANTE

BAY VIEW ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

PHOTO: TARMO HANNULA

ELLEN BASS

PHOTO: TARMO HANNULA

Thank You Santa Cruz –

MUSIC & NIGHTLIFE

PHOTO: TARMO HANNULA

MAKAI

SILVER

HULA'S

MOE'S

PHOTO: TARMO HANNULA

MUSIC & NIGHTLIFE

Local Band

DARK RIDE

SILVER

THE JOINT CHIEFS

BRONZE

ALEX LUCERO BAND

Local Musician

ALEX LUCERO

SILVER

EMILIO MENZE

BRONZE

JAMES DURBIN

Margaritas

TORTILLA FLATS

SILVER

EL PALOMAR

BRONZE

MANUEL'S MEXICAN RESTAURANT

Place to Play Pool

FAST EDDY'S BILLIARDS

SILVER

SURF CITY BILLIARDS

BRONZE

BRADY’S YACHT CLUB

Pub

PARISH PUBLICK HOUSE

SILVER

ROSIE MCCANN'S IRISH PUB & RESTAURANT

BRONZE

BRITANNIA ARMS OF CAPITOLA

DARK RIDE

PHOTO: FILE

COMMUNITY LIFE

CARINA REID

PHOTO: TARMO HANNULA

Best Festival(Art/Film)

Over 150 artists, wine tasting from 23 Santa Cruz Mountain wineries, Local Artisans Marketplace, Gourmet Food & Entertainment.

Free parking and shuttle at Capitola Mall on 41st Avenue. Beside the beach in Capitola Village! Saturday 10am – 6pm & Sunday 10am – 5pm Hosted by the Capitola-Soquel Chamber of Commerce ADMISSION FREE!

HEALTH & RECREATION

CHARDONNAY SAILING

winners

Acupuncturist

SPRING SMITH — SANTA CRUZ FAMILY ACUPUNCTURE

SILVER

YUVAL AVITAL—LIFE'S ESSENCE

BRONZE

BETH DORSEY—POINTS FOR WELLNESS

Bike Shop (E-Bike)

BICYCLE TRIP

SILVER

CURRENT EBIKES

BRONZE

ANOTHER BIKE SHOP

Bike Shop (General)

BICYCLE TRIP

SILVER

SANTA CRUZ CYCLE SPORT

BRONZE

ANOTHER BIKE SHOP

Bike Shop (Mountain)

BICYCLE TRIP

SILVER

ANOTHER BIKE SHOP

BRONZE

SANTA CRUZ CYCLE SPORT

Boat Tour

CHARDONNAY SAILING

SILVER O'NEILL YACHT CHARTERS

BRONZE

STAGNARO CHARTERS WHALE WATCHING

Cannabis

CBD Product KINDPEOPLES

SILVER MARYS MEDICINALS BRONZE JADE NECTAR

Cannabis Delivery

SANTA CRUZ NATURALS

SILVER KINDPEOPLES

BRONZE TREEHOUSE

Cannabis Dispensary

TREEHOUSE

SILVER THE HOOK OUTLET

BRONZE KINDPEOPLES

Cannabis

Edibles

WYLD

SILVER KIVA CONFECTIONS

BRONZE FROOT

PHOTO: TARMO HANNULA

<<<

HEALTH & RECREATION

Chiropractor

MARIE ROYER — SYNERGY CHIROPRACTIC

SILVER

MARK HASTINGS—HASTINGS CHIROPRACTIC CENTER

BRONZE

ISABEL EDEN—TRUE NATURE CHIROPRACTIC

Dentist

MICHAEL J. RAFFO RAFFO DENTAL

SILVER

JOSEPH ROBB—JOSEPH W. ROBB DENTISTRY

BRONZE

NANNETTE BENEDICT—DDS & ASSOCIATES

Doctor (MD)

JOHN GRADY— HARBOR HEALTH CENTER

SILVER

GAEL DECLEVE—DIGNITY HEALTH MEDICAL GROUP—DOMINICAN

BRONZE

RACHEL CARLTON ABRAMS—SANTA CRUZ INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE

Esthetician

THERESA KLOEPFER TODAY'S SKIN SOLUTIONS

SILVER

DEANN BOKARIZA-NEFF—THE STUDIO SPA

BRONZE

KATHERINE WELLS—ACE ESTHETICS

Thank You SANTA CRUZ!

Fitness Classes

GOAT SANTA CRUZ

SILVER

JAZZERCISE SANTA CRUZ

BRONZE

SPENGA

Golf Course

DELAVEAGA GOLF COURSE

SILVER

SEASCAPE GOLF CLUB

BRONZE

PASATIEMPO GOLF COURSE

Gym

TOADAL FITNESS

SILVER

GOAT SANTA CRUZ

BRONZE

IN_SHAPE FAMILY FITNESS

<<<

Hot Tub/Spa Store

THE SPA AND SAUNA CO.

SILVER

PARADISE VALLEY SPAS

BRONZE

APPI POOL & SPA

Martial Arts

SANFORD'S MARTIAL ART

SILVER

FREEDOM TAEKWONDO

BRONZE

ALLIED MMA

Massage Therapist

YVONNE HORNER

SILVER

MAIRIN TORR—POINTS FOR WELLNESS

BRONZE

LILY WEBBER—MASSAGE THERAPY

Medi-Spa

REJUVENATE MEDI-SPA & WELLNESS

SILVER

BEAUTY LOUNGE MED SPA

BRONZE

PACIFIC COAST AESTHETICS

Midwife

DANA RAMSEY NURTURE WOMEN'S HEALTH & FETILITY

SILVER

SERENA RUSSELL—SACRED CYCLES MIDWIFERY

BRONZE

KAYLA CUSHNER—PALO ALTO MEDICAL FOUNDATION

Naturopathic Doctor AIMÉE SHUNNEY

SILVER

IRENE J. VALENCIA—THRIVE NATURAL MEDICINE

BRONZE

TONYA FLECK—SANTA CRUZ NATUROPATHIC MEDICAL CENTER

Nutritionist

THE HEALTHY WAY

SILVER

REBECCA HAZELTON—FUNCTIONAL HEALTH

BRONZE

JILL TRODERMAN—HOLISTIC FAMILY NUTRITION

SANTA CRUZ NATURALS

Orthodontist

DANIEL HULME— HULME ORTHODONTICS

SILVER

JOHN HEDRICK—HEDRICK ORTHODONTICS

BRONZE

NORTH COAST ORTHODONTICS

BICYCLE TRIP

SILVER THE SPOKESMAN

BRONZE

EPICENTER CYCLING

PHOTO: TARMO HANNULA

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Surf School

CAPITOLA SURF AND PADDLE

SILVER

CLUB ED

BRONZE

SURF SCHOOL SANTA CRUZ

School

Surf Shop O'NEILL

SILVER

FREELINE SURF SHOP

BRONZE

PACIFIC WAVE

SILVER

SEAHORSE SWIM

BRONZE

JIM

Therapist

PACIFIC COAST THERAPY

MACY CHAPMAN

Veterinarian

TAMARA ABRAHAM— COAST VETERINARY SERVICES

SILVER TY MCCONELL—MCCONNELL VETERINARY SERVICE BRONZE

KACIE WELLS—HARBOR VETERINARY HOSPITAL

STAFF OF

SILVER

FELTON NUTRITION

BRONZE

THE HERB ROOM

Yoga Instructor

ROBIN BERKERY—YOGA WITH ROBIN

SILVER

NICOLE DUKE—HOTSOURCE YOGA

BRONZE

MARA RUTH—HOT ELEVATION STUDIOS

Yoga Studio

PLEASURE POINT YOGA

SILVER

HOTSOURCE YOGA

BRONZE

VILLAGE YOGA SANTA CRUZ

EDITOR’S PICKS

WINNERS

11TH HOUR COFFEE

Despite the name, do not plan on showing up to this trivia night at the eleventh hour if you want to find a table for your group. This has quickly become the hottest trivia spot in Santa Cruz, with staff urging triviagoers to arrive at least an hour early to snag a seat. The crowd is a mix of students—millennials looking to make new friends and the evergrowing tech population looking properly Santa Cruz-clad in Patagonia and Blundstone Boots. Topics range, but having a penchant for history and geography could come in clutch. The best part of the overly crowded 11th Hour Trivia Night: the food, featuring a Szechuan inspired menu and dumplings served by Full Steam Dumpling. Thursday nights at 7pm (get there by 3pm for a seat! Better yet, just take the day off work and arrive when they open at 7am).

HUMBLE SEA BREWING

The best part about this trivia night is that the staff takes to social media ahead of time to tell everyone the topics being featured that evening—architecture, pop culture and weather systems, to name a few. That way, you can rally a group of people with knowledge in those specialties, giving you a chance to finally take home the gold. The patio seating at this trivia night gets packed early, and many attendees are shivering by the night’s end due to not properly layering, instead, wearing thin jackets and sleeveless vests. Wednesday nights at 6 pm. ELIZABETH BORELLI

Best Place to Recover From a Hangover

STEAMER LANE SUPPLY

Let’s say you had a great time touring local wineries with an out-oftown friend. After more wine with dinner things get a little fuzzy, the next morning arrives a few hours too soon. In this purely made up scenario, where could you go to clear your head with beautiful views, an ocean breeze, strong coffee and replenishing eats? Steamer Lane Supply might just hit the mark. With nourishing options like kimchi, pickles and seaweed for garnishing a tasty variety of breakfast and lunch offerings. Although portions aren’t huge, neither are the prices for ocean view dining!

ELIZABETH BORELLI

Cheapest Place to Meet Single Vegans Over 40 EAT FOR THE EARTH FREE POTLUCK SERIES

Get your veg on at one of Eat for the Earth’s free potluck events! Expect to meet a cross-section of people ranging from young to old and single to coupled, but for sure you’ll enjoy an abundance of tasty eats in the pleasure of good company.

Eat for the Earth is the Santa Cruz-based not-for-profit dedicated to sharing the benefits of a plant-strong diet. Their regularly scheduled potlucks are a great way to try new recipes, share and enjoy delicious food and meet great people, single or not! ELIZABETH BORELLI

Best place to drink a cup of old tea

HIDDEN PEAK TEAHOUSE

In the world of wine and cheese, age equates to value. Tea, not so much. Wouldn’t old tea leaves begin to lose flavor? While most tea varieties go through a process of oxidation, rare others, such as pu-erh tea, undergo a unique multistep process that includes aging and fermentation. Aged pu-erh, like wine, gains depth and rarity and the results are worth the wait. If you’re looking for the perfect place to enjoy an old cup of tea, Hidden Peak Teahouse, a digitalfree sanctuary in downtown Santa Cruz, is a delightful, rare find.

ELIZABETH BORELLI

Best Place to Get High Without Drugs

MELOMELO KAVA BAR

Looking for a high without a hangover? Kava—a traditional beverage from the South Pacific made from plant roots—is a mild psychoactive and a safe alternative. While the drink is an acquired taste, the ceremony that accompanies it is an instant hit. The friendly bartender explained that each time your carved wooden cup is refilled, everyone at the bar joins in to clap once, shout the word “bula!” and clap twice to seal the cheer. Chugging is said to enhance the effects, but slow drinkers (like me) get the benefits too.

ELIZABETH BORELLI

LA MAREA OF THE SEA

PHOTO: LUCILE TEPPERMAN

Thank you Santa Cruz It’s

been a fabulous 20 years.

UNDER BEN BULBEN a World Première by Kate Hawley –– March 27-April 14

Sad, but true. After 20 years of bringing you live theatre, we will be leaving the Colligan Theater after our last show this season. The future for Jewel Theatre is undetermined but one thing we do know is that we are eternally grateful for having been honored with several “Best of” awards over the years. It has always been our goal to provide you with quality theatre that examines, celebrates, and calls out humanity in all its peaks and valleys. We encourage you to join us for our last two productions before we go dark. Live theatre does “thrive” in Santa Cruz, and we are honored to have been a part of the scene.

ALWAYS…PATSY CLINE by Ted Swindley –– May 8-26 Tickets are available online or at the box office. Call (831) 425-7506 or go to www.JewelTheatre.net

LIVE THEATRE THRIVES IN SANTA CRUZ.

Breakfast Sandwich Ever

LULU CARPENTER’S

Melted sharp cheddar cheese over a perfectly folded omelet cooked on the plancha, with crispy bacon (choice of applewood smoked or regular) and their signature sauces. The sriracha aioli is to die for. Served in between a fluffy flaky biscuit or on a croissant. With several coffee houses throughout town, quality food and pastries from a longtime local staple coffeehouse and roaster is a welcome trend. (No to Starbucks). Lulu Carpenter’s full kitchen and bakery is at their downtown flagship store. Make sure to go early as sometimes they run out before the 1pm cut-off time for brunch. LUCILE TEPPERMAN

Weirdest Landmarks in Santa Cruz

HIPPO TREE

There’s a hippo poking out of a tree near New Brighton State Beach. Yep, you heard me, a burned branch resembling the famous 4,000-pound semi-aquatic African mammal juts outwardly from a eucalyptus tree on Park Avenue in Capitola. Its painted eyes and Santa hat during the holiday season makes this “hippo” one of Santa Cruz's weirdest landmarks. MATHEW CHIPMAN

HIPPO TREE

PHOTO: MATHEW CHIPMAN

EDITOR’S PICKS

Best Coffee Shop Run by a Church SHRINE COFFEE

Have you ever been walking down Westcliff Drive and wanted a delicious pastry and great coffee? You’re in luck! Tucked away at the Shrine of St Joseph with a beautiful Monterey cypress paneled interior and lush garden exterior, Shrine Coffee is the best churchrun coffee shop on Westcliff Drive. If you’re looking for a great place to stop when you’re walking your dog or need a post-surf dirty chai, here’s your spot. MATHEW CHIPMAN

Most Stylish Uni-Sex Hat

THE HAT COMPANY OF SANTA CRUZ

Want a houndstooth messenger cap? A trucker hat with a chicken on it? Do you need a visor with the Golden Girls plastered all over it? The Hat Company has got everything one needs and more. On Pacific Avenue presenting the window display of the craziest hat-centered dreams, The Hat Company has stood for 35 years. Friendly staff with a knowledgeable owner make for a stellar shopping experience. There is no hat concept too outlandish for this store to supply, so come get a knit owl beanie or a fur bucket hat and accessorize with the headwear of your fancy. MORGAN GUERRA

Most Affordable Vintage Clothing Store

ANGEL AURA VINTAGE

Most find this gem while waiting for a table at Walnut Ave Cafe because right next to the well-loved breakfast joint is the affordable vintage collective Angel Aura. Whether jamming with 90’s band tees, early 2000’s corset tops, or 70’s long flowing skirts, the Angel Aura vendors have it covered without breaking the bank. College budgetfriendly, Angel Aura does the digging for patrons to find the cream of the crop in the secondhand market. It’s no thrift store, but you can find some great pieces in this vintage shop without the hefty price tag some others present. MORGAN GUERRA

Hiking Location with the Most Shock Value

LOMA PRIETA EARTHQUAKE EPICENTER TRAIL, FOREST OF NISENE MARKS

When we look at what’s to blame for the Loma Prieta earthquake, it seems to be the San Andreas Mountain’s fault. This trail starts at the end of Aptos Creek Road and takes hikers to the mainshock epicenter of the Oct. 17, 1989 quake. The epicenter went six feet sideways and 11 miles deep. Loma Prieta Peak towers over rugged country, and on the trail there’s a climb or descent four miles outand-back. RICHARD STOCKTON

EDITOR’S PICKS

Best Dive Bar with a Jukebox

BRADY’S YACHT CLUB

No one who owns a yacht has ever been inside Brady’s Yacht Club. Brady’s is the most revered and reviled dive bar in Santa Cruz, depending on where in someone’s alcoholic arc they are questioned. From the opening bell at 10am, Brady’s stays packed all day. It is famous for heavy pours and friendly people. Brady’s is the place to be when last call comes around. Once, the menu favorite was something called Ass Juice, which came with a warning not to drink it. RICHARD STOCKTON

Oyster Bar with the Most Santa Cruz Vibes

CABRILLO COLLEGE FARMERS MARKET

There’s nothing like strolling down a Cabrillo College hill on a Saturday to the farmers market while catching some rays of late fall sun. With veggies in the basket, shoppers can head down to the lower market for some renewed energy at La Marea of the Sea. The price is a fair $10 for four oysters on the half-shell, locally sourced from Tomales Bay and with an exciting array of homemade sauces. Let the oyster fun begin! They offer everything from a subtle cilantro, green onion mignonette to a traditional lovers’ go-to—their in-house cocktail sauce with fresh horseradish—to their serrano salsa for those who like a bit more kick. If diners like it rustic and nonchalant, this is that SC vibe. Call it over-the-top, but they have a prepared oyster they call “the best of both worlds.” Raw oysters, topped with fresh ceviche and prawns, what!? LUCILLE TEPPERMAN

Best gluten-free vegan dessert

MELINDA’S BAKERY

Wondering how baked goods can taste good without critical ingredients like butter, eggs and flour? Turns out that question was harder to answer than expected! But the extra effort finally paid off with just one bite of an almond bear claw from Melinda’s gluten-free bakery: a perfectly crisp layer covered oven-fresh dough encasing a rich almond filling. If breakfast is too early for decadence, this treat makes a perfect dessert option too. Or sample one of the many options changing daily at this cozy Capitola café. ELIZABETH BORELLI

Best TikTok Dances IRL JOY SMITH DANCE

Ever seen the dances on TikTok showing friends doing fun routines together? This inspired local choreographer Joy Smith to offer a couple’s dance class, teaching partners user-friendly routines to bring adventure and laughter to their date night. “It’s one partner comfortable taking dance classes and a nervous but willing partner not knowing what to expect,” she says. In the 1.5-hour class, Smith teaches two to three short routines. The outcome has been better than she imagined. “The men, having discovered a new love, are begging for the next class so they can show off their new skills!” JUNE SMITH