» DINING

Pop-up How chefs, wineries and breweries worked together to save the dining scene BY CHRISTINA WATERS Paradise

Here’s a toast to the resilience of food folks. The pandemic forced a sudden and vertiginous shut down of restaurants, breweries, and wine tasting rooms. For a long while everything was closed except groceries and take-out dining. To stem the tide of lost revenue, swift cuisinartists made a necessary pivot and formed alliances that took win/win to a whole new level. Food trucks pulled up beside breweries, chefs catered private events and pop-ups popped up everywhere. Variations on these creative alliances expanded with the gradual reawakening of DIY food venues. The current boom in casual dining looks like the post-COVID future, with infrastructure pared down and Julia Child era amenities the stuff of white tablecloth memories.

Pop-ups and food trucks were already exciting the Santa Cruz dining scene before the closures. Many chefs surfed the trend toward abbreviated menus of casual choices, 3-star Michelin chef David Kinch, for example, unveiled a trendy pizza parlor Mentone (now reopened) just weeks before the spring 2020 closure. At the popular downtown Birichino Winery Tasting Room, visiting food vendors made guest appearances, and tastings moved to sidewalk tables, winemakers Alex Krause and John Locke invited favorite bbqs and grills to visit each week. Necessity is the mother of partnership invention.

After a year of patio tastings, Beauregard Vineyards opened Slow Coast Wine Bar in the Highway One village of Davenport, ten minutes north of Santa Cruz. Still testing food partnerships, the wine bar offers a stunning ocean view as well as catered cheeses and charcuteries to enjoy with Ryan Beauregard's wines. “We had to serve food in order to open,” says the winemaker. “So that’s when we started reaching out to food trucks and various caterers.” Catered appetizers also join the flights of Beauregard wines a few miles up the mountain at the winery's flagship Bonny Doon estate tasting room. The Davenport wine bar is currently offering wines by the bottle, glass, and 1oz pours, allowing tasters to create their own flights.

At her Aptos Village Ser Winery Tasting Room, winemaker Nicole Walsh has been proactive in doing whatever it took to stay open, including carving out table seating from her extra parking space. “Having an outdoor space has been critical for my business during this past year. I am also so happy it let us have a place for the community to get out and enjoy some time with friends and partners.” Ser has recently been welcoming creative food partners, such as the prolific chef Diego Felix of Colectivo Felix whose Argentine-inspired empanadas have popped up in the tasting room to pair with Walsh’s wines.

Katherine Stern, who for a decade was head chef at Seabright’s La Posta, reinvented herself at the al fresco cooking outlet Midway. Her ingenious recipe designs energize the Santa Cruz farmers market landscape and are now popping up at Ser. “These events at Ser tasting room have been an exciting collaboration,” says Stern. “Even pre-pandemic, the opportunity for a food vendor to reach the community through a pre-existing business is a fantastic option to get things going. It allows new businesses to test out new ideas and explore the demographic, seeing what works and what might need some tweaking. The goal for the Midway is still to find a brick and mortar location, but in the meantime, various pop ups and the weekend farmers markets have been wonderful platforms to reach our customers.”

PERFECT PAIRINGS Ser Winery

has recently begun inviting in creative food partners. PHOTO: NICOLE WALSH

Paradise

At the Westside’s Humble Sea, one of the area’s most exuberant breweries, innovative food collaborations are the house specialty. The four-year-old home of trendy craft beers, Humble Sea partners with Colectivo Felix, Full Steam Dumpling, Tori Man, and various pizza purveyors, among others. The variety changes daily to the delight of Humble Sea’s many fans.

“We were using food trucks and popups before the pandemic to diversity our food availability beyond our kitchen. Right now we’re not sure about reopening the kitchen. It’s been great to have lots of different foods,” says Humble Sea brewer Nick Pavlina.

Fran Grayson, a veteran of food truck cooking and now proprietor of the oceanfront Steamer Lane Supply, says the restaurant scene was primed for this trend before the pandemic. “The trucks-at-breweries thing pre-dates the pandemic for sure,” she says. She sees it as a natural partnership, “because the breweries need the trucks and the trucks need people gathered in one place.”

“There has been some increase in pop-ups and certainly a substantial amount of new weekly-order type businesses as chefs became unemployed due to restaurant closures, and decided to do their own thing in that way,” says Grayson. “Some pretty fun stuff happening in that realm."

Diningbottomless mimosa brunch and a famous, big Bloody Mary that includes too many toppings to list here, but it is a work of art—think Leaning Tower of Pisa—that will not leave you hungry or thirsty.

The Buttery

702 Soquel Ave, Santa Cruz, 831.458.3020, butterybakery.com This beloved bakery has it all, plus a loyal crowd to prove it. They show up for cakes, pies, tarts, cookies, plus creative sandwiches, hot breakfast items and so much more.

AMERICAN

515 Kitchen & Cocktails

515 Cedar St, Santa Cruz, 831.425.5051, 515santacruz.com One of the best places for cocktails, where mixologists work with loads of ingredients (have you ever seen so many types of bitters?) and present a dizzying array of house recipes. Small plates as well as dinner entrées are thoughtfully crafted in this creatively designed venue. Cool staff and patrons.

Alderwood

155 Walnut Ave, Santa Cruz, 831.588.3238, alderwoodsantacruz.com

Located in downtown Santa Cruz, Alderwood is a coastal steakhouse with dining-room, bar and chef’scounter seating.

Aptos St. BBQ

8059 Aptos St, Aptos, 831.662.1721, aptosstbbq.com Aptos St. BBQ has a few recipes for success: sweet and smoky barbecue sauce, a large craft beer list, a roadhouse vibe, mouthwatering Texasstyle tri-tip, hot links, ribs, and more.

Avenue Cafe

427 Capitola Ave, Capitola, 831.515.7559 This neighborhood restaurant in a quaint Capitola cottage is a great place to meet family and friends for a delicious traditional breakfast or lunch. Patrons line up to enjoy the award-winning Eggs Benedict.

Back Nine Grill & Bar

555 Hwy. 17, Santa Cruz, 831.423.5000, backninegrill.com Inspired by rich local history— the restaurant sits adjacent to

BANTAM

TARMO HANNULA

Pasatiempo Golf Club designed by Alister MacKenzie in 1929—and the style of food preparation dating back to Rancho Carbonero Mexican Land Grant on which the land now resides.

Beach Hut Deli

381 Soquel Ave, Santa Cruz, 831.431.6921 beachhutdeli.com/store/santa-cruz Delicious hot and cold sandwiches, salads and snacks with a tiki vibe. Bittersweet Bistro

787 Rio Del Mar Blvd, Aptos, 831.662.9799 bittersweetbistro.com

American bistro cuisine with Mediterranean influences features a special emphasis on local and organic produce.

Bruno’s Bar and Grill

230 Mt. Hermon Rd, Scotts Valley, 831.438.2227, brunosbarandgrill.com American bar and grill with a

Café Cruz

2621 41st Ave, Soquel, 831.476.3801, cafecruz.com One of the most successful restaurants in the area, Café Cruz stands out for its commitment to serving reliably delicious, locally and sustainably sourced cuisine in a lively atmosphere. Coupled with a superior wine list, this is a culinary haven.

Café Gratitude

103 Lincoln St, Santa Cruz, 831.427.9583, cafegratitude.com A “plant-based” culinary romp. Fresh, organic food is served at this unique eatery. After sampling its vast list of vegetarian treats and drinks, and its inventive food creations, you’ll want to take home a cookbook.

Café Rio

131 Esplanade, Aptos, 831.688.8917 caferioaptos.com This restaurant on the beach is a great date night spot with romantic views, delectable seafood and filet mignon. Across the courtyard, you’ll find their casual spot, Flats Bistro, for artisan pizza, gourmet coffee and more.

Chill Out Café

860 41st Ave, Capitola, 831.477.0543 Known for its breakfast burritos—20 »

«to choose from—plus sandwiches, salads and smoothies, this Pleasure Point beach shack serves breakfast all day and evening, plus a good selection of espresso drinks that you can enjoy on the garden patio.

Crepe Place

1134 Soquel Ave, Santa Cruz, 831.429.6994, thecrepeplace.com The Crepe Place has been serving a giant selection of delectable crepes since 1973. A locals’ favorite, they also dish up enormous salads and weekend breakfast. The outdoor garden and an extensive selection of single malts also make this place stand out.

Crow’s Nest

2218 East Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz, 831.476.4560 crowsnest-santacruz.com

This very popular restaurant in the Yacht Harbor wins points for its large menu of fresh seafood, steaks, chicken, and appetizers—but it’s known for excellent service and incredible views.

Davenport Roadhouse

1 Davenport Ave, Davenport, 831.426.8801 davenportroadhouse.com From breakfast to lunch and dinner, this tasty restaurant in the seaside town of Davenport is well worth the gorgeous 10-minute drive up Highway 1 from Santa Cruz.

East End Gastropub

1501 41st Ave, Capitola, 831.475.8010, eastendpub.com This refreshingly refined sister of West End Tap offers new American dishes that match well with the house craft beer. Creative takes on pizza, burgers, salads, and entrees like pork belly and strip steak.

Erik’s DeliCafe

See all locations at eriksdelicafe.com/locations Sandwiches, salads and soups.

Heavenly Roadside Cafe

1210 Mt. Hermon Rd, Scotts Valley, 831.335.1210 heavenlyroadsidecafe.com A casual place to find modern takes on classic favorites made with fresh ingredients. Breakfast options abound, or stop in for their John Wayne burger topped with bbq sauce and housemade onion rings from their burger bar. The Grille at Delaveaga

401 Upper Park Rd, Santa Cruz, 831.423.1600 delaveagagolf.com/dining The newly renovated, award-winning restaurant offers continental and California cuisine featuring carefully sourced ingredients from many local and organic farms. Enjoy the stunning views, cozy built-in fireplace, full bar, outdoor patio and deck seating.

Hindquarter Bar & Grille

303 Soquel Ave, Santa Cruz, 831.426.7770, thehindquarter.com Hindquarter’s Smoky Platter has a bit of everything, including Chicago baby back ribs. Aged Angus top sirloin steaks, catch-of-the-day fish, live Maine lobster, pastas, burgers and steak-cut french fries are the restaurant’s specialties. Meats are house-smoked.

Hollins House

20 Clubhouse Rd, Santa Cruz, 831.459.9177 thehollinshouse.com/restaurant An elegant dinner house at the Pasatiempo Golf Course, the 1930’s building is filled with earthy charm. On a cool night, enjoy a drink by the fireplace before settling in to your table, or on a warm night relish the views of the Monterey Bay from the outdoor patio.

Holy Smokes Country BBQ

21505 East Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz, 831.471.8787 holysmokescountrybbqandcatering.com This popular caterer has opened a restaurant in East Cliff Village. Enjoy your favorite ribs, brisket, chicken, and more.

Home

3101 N Main St, Soquel, 831.431.6131, homesoquel.com In charming Soquel Village, Home serves up the finest local, seasonal veggies and local meats prepared by talented Chef Brad Briske.

Ideal Bar & Grill

106 Beach St, Santa Cruz, 831.423.5271, idealbarandgrill.com Fish, steaks and pasta dishes shine at this venue, where you can reach out and almost touch the sand. A fun, you’re-on-vacation scene prevails. There’s salsa dancing on the patio if your timing is right.

Iveta Cafe

2125 Delaware Ave, Santa Cruz iveta.com Offering all-natural artisan baking mixes and freshly prepared meals that recall the European-style cafes.

The View at Chaminade

1 Chaminade Lane, Santa Cruz, 831.475.5600, chaminade.com At one of the more dramatic views, The View brings the local agricultural bounty to your plate accompanied by wines of the Central California Coast. Live music every week featuring local artists from around Santa Cruz, the Central Coast and Bay Area.

Malone’s Grille

4402 Scotts Valley .Drive, Scotts Valley, 831.438.2244 malonesgrille.com Burgers, steaks, cocktails, and karaoke. Enough said.

MacKenzie Bar & Grill

18 Clubhouse Rd, Santa Cruz, 831.459.9162, pasatiempo.com Enjoy a picturesque setting for breakfast or lunch near a fireplace, or with a view of the Monterey Bay. Post-golf drinks and appetizers are especially pleasant on the veranda near Pasatiempo’s ninth green. Breakfast is served all day.

Michael’s on Main

2591 S. Main St, Soquel, 831.479.9777, michaelsonmain.net Cutting-edge comfort food with classics such as Yankee Style Pot Roast are featured alongside welldone dishes, like Braised Short Ribs. The bar is a popular spot to catch live music, and they have a new tap room to keep the good times flowing.

Oswald

121 Soquel Ave, Santa Cruz, 831.423.7427, oswaldrestaurant.com One of the area’s finest restaurants. From fresh seafood entrées to fine meats, Oswald does everything well and tastefully. The presentations, decor and excellent wine list all add up to a memorable meal—and evening.

Paradise Beach Grille

215 Esplanade, Capitola, 831.476.4900, paradisebeachgrille.com One of the best restaurants in Capitola, this casual culinary paradise overlooks the bay. You’ll find flavors of the Hawaiian Islands as well as authentic California cuisine. The extensive local wine list is a plus—so are the great martinis.

Persephone

7945 Soquel Drive, Aptos,831.612.6511 persephonerestaurant.com A fine dining establishment focused on offering the best and freshest ingredients Santa Cruz County has to offer.

Pretty Good Advice

3070 Porter St, Soquel, 831.226.2805 prettygoodadvicesoquel.com Hyper-local, fast-casual dining spot run by not one, but four renowned chefs. The ever-evolving menu items are all made in house, from scratch. Gather on the sunny patio or grab something to go.

Red Restaurant

200 Locust St, Santa Cruz, 831.425.1913 redrestaurantandbarsc.com

In a spacious room suffused with red light, a bar with comfy furniture flows into the restaurant where locals indulge in reasonably priced sandwiches, sliders, battered salmon and chips, and more. Home to a latenight bar scene, the earlier hours make for a mellow, romantic experience and an ideal place for conversation.

River Café

415 River St, Suite K, Santa Cruz, 831.420.1280, rivercafesantacruz.com This café offers organic, farm-fresh meals. An extensive panini menu makes it a great lunch option, and make »

«sure to grab a housemade organic cookie to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Sanderlings at Seascape Beach Resort

One Seascape Resort Drive, Aptos, 831.662.7120 sanderlingsrestaurant.com Elegant-yet-casual dining, an ocean view, and California Coastal cuisine, including selections of seafood, steaks, pasta, and other golden state classics.

Santa Cruz Diner

909 Ocean St, Santa Cruz, 831.426.7151,santacruzdiner.com Kid-friendly spot for breakfast all day, classic American eats and international options such as pho.

Severino’s Bar & Grill

7500 Old Dominion Court, Aptos, 831.688.8987, seacliffinn.com The comfortable bar-restaurant also has outdoor seating along a koi pond. A designed-to-please menu features seafood, pastas and a variety of meat dishes. Severino’s is a relaxing spot for breakfast, brunch, lunch, dinner, and happy hour. The 10-12 ounce New York Steak is delicious.

Shadowbrook

1750 Wharf Rd, Capitola, 831.475.1511, shadowbrook-capitola.com A destination restaurant, the lush Shadowbrook grounds are in a beautiful creekside setting. Ride the antique cable car from the top of the multi-level restaurant or walk the path. The bar can be crowded and fun, with music and a pizza oven for casual dining. Dining rooms range from romantic and intimate to ideal for group gatherings. Many classic dishes and California influences on the fine menu.

Sid’s Smokehouse

10110 Soquel Drive, Aptos, 831.662.2227, sidssmokehouse.com This hotspot boasts wood-fired pizza, slow-cooked barbecue favorites—from pulled pork to ribs— and some incredibly tasty woodfired mac ’n’ cheese.

Soif

105 Walnut Ave, Santa Cruz, 831.423.2020, soifwine.com Soif is aptly named. “Thirst” in French, it’s a wine-lover’s heaven, with a top selection of wines by the glass and an adjacent wine shop. Foodies will appreciate the seasonal dishes, prepared with finesse, and jazz on Mondays is a treat.

BEACH HUT DELI

TARMO HANNULA

Solaire Restaurant & Bar

611 Ocean St, Santa Cruz, 831.600.4545, solairerestaurant.com With a poolside bar, Solaire at Hotel Paradox gives customers a modern, chic experience that can be hard to find in Santa Cruz. This spot promises a level of service customers can expect from a fine hotel, yet is as relaxed as a vacation should be.

Sotola Bar & Grill

231 Esplanade, Suite 102, Capitola, 831.854.2800, sotolabarandgrill.com California farmstead local cuisine made with farm-fresh ingredients and local seafood. Full bar, great patio and fantastic views.

Stonehouse Bar and Grill

6001 La Madrona Drive, Scotts Valley, 831.440.1000, hiltonsantacruz.com Winning raves for its creative California cuisine, Stonehouse— located inside the Hilton—also boasts a full bar and offers a vast selection of some of the area’s finest local wines and signature brews.

Süda

3910 Portola Drive, Santa Cruz, 831.600.7068, eatsuda.com With a focus on well-prepared, healthy food and taking care of the customer, Süda has a great vibe. The well-designed space features indoor and outdoor seating, a bar-restaurant combo, and a well-rounded menu that includes expertly seasoned fish tacos, pasta, meats, amazing burgers, and more.

Venus Spirits, Cocktails & Kitchen

200 High Rd, Santa Cruz, 831.600.7376, venusspirits.com Local distillery producing small batch spirits, with tasting and handcrafted cocktails and food right next door.

Vim Dining & Desserts

2238 Mission St, Santa Cruz, 831.515.7033, vimsantacruz.com Chef Jesikah Stolaroff crafts New American cuisine, drawing inspiration from her family’s Italian roots, as well as innovative desserts.

Walnut Avenue Cafe

106 Walnut Ave, Santa Cruz, 831.457.2804, walnutavenuecafe.com Walnut Avenue Cafe specializes in warm, swift service, excellent espresso drinks and well-endowed plates of freshly-made, classic American breakfast. Friendly service rules at Walnut Avenue Cafe.

The Water Street Grill

503 Water St, Santa Cruz, 831.332.6122, thewaterstreetgrill.com This family-owned restaurant features farm-to-table food, a wine bar and a beer bar.

West End Tap & Kitchen

334 Ingalls St, Santa Cruz, 831.471.8115, westendtap.com With hints of French and Japanese flavors, co-owner Geoff Hargrave goes beyond typical tap room fare. Located in the bustling complex on Ingalls Street, West End Tap has become a destination on Santa Cruz’s Westside. »

Whale City Bakery

490 Hwy. 1, Davenport, 831.423.9009, whalecitybakery.com Stop in for a ham and cheese croissant before hitting the beach, or end your day with tacos. Featuring breakfast, lunch and dinner as well as a large selection of pies and baked goods, Whale City Bakery has it all.

Wharf House

Capitola Wharf, Capitola, 831.476.3534, wharfhouse.com A view accompanies breakfast, lunch and dinner. Enjoy the bar on the upper deck.

Wingstop

845 Almar Ave, Santa Cruz, 831.454.9464

Wings, wings and more wings! With more than 10 flavors, and options for sauces and sides, there’s something for everyone. Each order is made fresh and served up piping hot.

Wooden Nickel Bar and Grill

1819 Freedom Blvd, Freedom, 831.724.2600

The Wooden Nickel offers traditional American cuisine, big french fries and crispy onion rings, all for reasonable prices with daily lunch and dinner specials.

Woodie’s Café

25 Municipal Wharf, Santa Cruz, 831.421.9410

Inspired by Woodie’s on the Wharf, Woodie’s Café is a fun, casual and affordable eatery. Here you’ll find Killer Burgers, Righteous Ribs, Screamin’ Starters, and Epic Entrées.

Your Place

1719 Mission St, Santa Cruz, 831.426.3564, yourplacesc.com Farm-to-table food, and lovingly run by two partners who make each guest feel personally invited. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are a delicious value. There’s a full bar, and even the menu has personality.

Zachary’s Restaurant

819 Pacific Ave, Santa Cruz, 831.427.0646, zacharyssantacruz.com

Locals know how to ease into the day at this bustling morning hangout. The omelets are impressive, but actually, everything on the menu is bountiful and done well. Try Mike’s Mess.

Zelda’s

203 Esplanade, Capitola, 831.475.4900, zeldasonthebeach.com Happy hour delights, plus lobster night and more. Nab anything from appetizers to fish and meats and dine on the deck or indoors.

FOOD TRUCKS

Food Trucks A Go Go

foodtrucksagogo.com/upcoming-events A pioneer on the local food truck scene, they regularly hold events around Santa Cruz County.

Scrumptious Fish and Chips

831.291.1091, scrumptiousfc.com Mobile food trailer serving authentic British-style, scratch-made fish and chips in the Santa Cruz community. Best Of Santa Cruz award winner!

ITALIAN

Aldo’s Harbor Restaurant

790 Mariner Park Way, Santa Cruz, 831.426.3736

Plenty take note of the great breakfast menu, but lunch or dinner on the harborside deck are great, too. Aldo’s has been heralded for its amazing Eggs Benedict, calamari and fresh salmon, but don’t stop there.

Bella Roma Caffe

316 Capitola Ave, Capitola, 831.464.2608 bellaromacaffe.com

At this welcoming restaurant in Capitola Village, the Italian owner-chef of Bella Roma has gathered his favorite recipes from friends and family to comprise the menu so favored by regulars. Glutenfree or wheat pasta, and plenty of entrées without pasta, too.

Café Mare

740 Front St, Santa Cruz, 831.458.1212, cafemare.com A downtown treasure and an escape from trends. At this authentic Italian ristorante, the recipes come from the heart. Great wine list and friendly staff.

Caruso’s Tuscan Cuisine

115 San Jose Ave, Capitola, 831.465.9040, carusos-capitola.com Authentic Italian cuisine where every dish has its own distinct style. There’s no shortage of variety either: lamb shanks, sea bass, pizza and, of course, delicious pasta.

Ella’s at the Airport

100 Aviation Way, Watsonville, 831.728.3282, ellasinwatsonville.com Serving Italian and American dishes using fresh, local ingredients.

La Posta

538 Seabright Ave, Santa Cruz, 831.457.2782, lapostarestaurant.com Seabright’s cozy hotspot continues to win raves for its distinctly original creations that are the refined handiwork of a kitchen dedicated to excellence. The housemade bread is superb, and there won’t be a mediocre glass of wine in the house.

Lago Di Como

21490 East Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz, 831.454.8247, lagodicomoristorante.com This popular eatery features traditional Northern Italian cuisine and an impressive wine list. Check out their wood-fired pizzas.

Lillian’s Italian Kitchen

1148 Soquel Ave, Santa Cruz, 831.425.2288, lilliansitaliankitchen.com

Mamma Mia—you won’t walk away hungry. Lillian’s is friendly and affordable, and all the food comes from recipes handed down to the owner from his family. Customers get a fascinating taste of old-fashioned favorites in bountiful portions.

Pizzeria La Bufala

725 Front St, Santa Cruz, 831.999.0301, pizzerialabufala.com Led by Chef Sandro Costanza and his wife Luciana Costanza, this spot aims to bring back the Neapolitan tradition of pizza making.

Ristorante Avanti

1917 Mission St, Santa Cruz, 831.427.0135, avantisantacruz.com One of the area’s most favored Italian restaurants wins high marks for its consistently exemplary cuisine, service that shines as bright, and a beautifully designed, airy dining room.

Ristorante Italiano

555 Soquel Ave, Suite 150, Santa Cruz, 831/458.2321, ristoranteitalianosc.com This Italian venue has many devoted followers of its authentic cuisine, full bar, catering, and takeout. Dine under the oaks on their patio and try the Fisherman Cioppino.

Sugo Italian Pasta Bar

1116 Soquel Ave, Santa Cruz, 831.431.6965, sugoitalianpastabar.com Authentic, handmade Italian cuisine available for dine-in, takeout and catering.

Tramonti

528 Seabright Ave, Santa Cruz, 831.426.7248, tramontisantacruz.com Tramonti’s Italian chef keeps customers coming back for more. It’s casual in a pleasant, authentic Italian way, with mouthwatering lasagna, gnocchi and thin-crust pizza made with fine ingredients. Even the olive oil is a cut above.

Zoccoli’s

1534 Pacific Ave, Santa Cruz, 831.423.1711, zoccolis.com Going strong now for more than 60 years, Zoccoli’s is often packed with locals. The family-owned vibe and attention to detail here truly stands out. That, and everything from its cheese selection to numerous sandwich options and deli salads keeps ’em coming.

MEXICAN

Café El Palomar

2222 East Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz, 831.477.0371, cafeelpalomar.com Inexpensive beachside-taqueria Mexican food and premium margaritas, this breezy location is beloved by locals. Try the »

«chicken mole, or find any excuse to order just the homemade corn tortillas. Also try Leo’s Special— shrimp, snapper, ceviche, skirt steak with rice, beans and guacamole.

Cilantros Mexican Restaurant

1934 Main St, Watsonville, 831.761.2161, cilantroswatsonville.com A festive atmosphere accompanies some terrific Mexican fare—and the entrées are abundantly portioned. Great list of appetizers and beverages. Eat this: Homemade Tortilla Soup.

El Jardín

655 Capitola Rd, Santa Cruz, 831.477.9384, eljardinrestaurant.net A friendly staff, unique sauces and gorgeous desserts shine at this great local restaurant. Winner of best mole sauce in a blind tasting at the Mole and Mariachi Festival.

El Palomar

1336 Pacific Ave, Santa Cruz, 831.425.7575, elpalomarsantacruz.com Try the taco bar for a quick bite, dine in style in the historic dining room, or snack in the vibrant bar. It continues to win Best Mexican Restaurant in GT’s Readers’ Poll. Try: Burrito de Camarones.

Margaritaville

231 Esplanade, Capitola Village, 831.476.4366, margaritavillecapitola.com A contemporary makeover features Mexican cuisine with an accent on seafood and fresh and local ingredients. And really, there’s no other place you’d rather go if you blow out your flip-flop stepping on a pop top.

Manuel’s Restaurant

261 Center Ave, Aptos, 831.688.4848, manuelsrestaurant.com Manuel Santana opened his restaurant in 1965, and the business has been family-operated ever since, serving traditional recipes with a smile.

Maya Mexican Restaurant

3115 Scotts Valley Drive, Scotts Valley, 831.438.7004, mayasv.com Serving classic dishes from the heart of Michoacán, Mexico, the familyowned and operated Maya Mexican Restaurant won first place in the 2012 and 2013 Santa Cruz Golden Awards.

Olitas Cantina and Grille

49B Municipal Wharf, Santa Cruz, 831.458.9393, olitassantacruz.com A south-of-the-border, seafoodfocused menu with Yucatan and Veracruz-influenced specialties is served in this upbeat spot with views all around.

Tacos Moreno

1053 Water St, Santa Cruz, 831.429.6095; 1601 41st Ave, Capitola (next to See’s Candy), 831.464.8810 A favorite local taqueria that offers classic Mexican fare—burritos, tacos and more.

Taqueria Vallarta

831.464.7022 For locations, visit taqueriavallartaonline.com Large selection of Mexican meats for burritos, tacos, enchiladas and more at multiple locations around town.

Tortilla Flats

4616 Soquel Drive, Soquel, 831.476.1754, tortillaflatsdining.com From its Original Margarita to the impressive house specials, this is Mexican dining at its best. The delightful, bustling restaurant is in charming Soquel Village. Try this: Chicken Mole.

ASIAN/SUSHI

Akira

1222 Soquel Ave, Santa Cruz, 831.600.7093, akirasantacruz.com; 105 Post Office Drive, Aptos, 831.708.2154, akiraaptos.com Akira has the feel of a neighborhood hangout, and even if you don’t know anyone, you can be part of the scene. The extensive vegetarian menu and creative rolls are designed to please demanding sushi fans.

Canton

900 41st Ave, Santa Cruz, 831.475.8751, cantonsantacruz.com Specializes in Cantonese and Szechuan cuisine with Mandarin, Thai, Vietnamese, and Japanese blended in. Family recipes make flavorful use of fresh ingredients. Vegetarian-friendly. Choice beer, wine and sake selections. Free WiFi.

Geisha

200 Monterey Ave, Capitola, 831.464.3328, geishasushicapitola.com Geisha offers up a tasty, sustainable menu that sticks to the Seafood Watch and FishWise guides and programs, and carries local, seasonal ingredients when possible. Note the full-page vegetarian menu.

Kaito

Capitola Mall food court, Capitola, 831.464.2586, smilekaito.com Spicy Miso Ramen, Ja-Ja Ramen, Shoyu Ramen—Kaito has every kind of ramen your heart could desire, and also sushi tapas for the lighter preevening meals.

Malabar Café/ Asian Rose

514 Front St, Santa Cruz, 831.458.3023

The art of vegetarian Sri Lankan cooking is on display. Dig the naan bread and garlic oil, and pretty much anything on the menu. The food, wait staff, and pretty dining room has earned a strong following. It’s alcohol-free, so stop at one of the downtown bars if you’d like a drink before dinner.

Mayflower Chinese Restaurant

3555 Clares St, Capitola, 831.476.4688, mayflowerfood.com This is truly authentic Chinese cuisine. Try the Sweet and Sour Pork.

Mobo Sushi

105 River St, Santa Cruz, 831.425.1700, mobosushirestaurant.com One of the most popular sushi spots in the area delivers a huge variety of selections, all made by master chefs. Nosh on the impressive non-sushi menu items found here, too.

Naka Sushi

1200 41st Ave, Capitola, 831.479.9620, nakasushi.org If it’s a time-honored traditional approach to the art of sushi you’re after, look no further than chef Nakasan’s generous creations at Naka Sushi in Capitola. Try: Unagi Nigiri or anything from the nightly specials board.

Otoro Sushi

235 Mt Hermon Road #G, Scotts Valley, 831.440.9040 Great ambiance, friendly service and fresh fish at Scotts Valley favorite.

Pacific Thai

1319 Pacific Ave, Santa Cruz, 831.420.1700, pacificthaisantacruz.com A downtown favorite since 2005, Pacific Thai fuses their love for Thai cuisine with boba drinks. Noodles with shrimp, salmon in a coconut milk curry, papaya salad, cold Thai tea: their lunch items are a sure favorite.

Real Thai Kitchen

1632 Seabright Ave, Santa Cruz, 831.427.2559, realthaisantacruz.com Real Thai Kitchen can make you feel like you’re in Thailand. The dining room is pleasantly abuzz with takeout as well as dine-in customers, and the hospitality and food are as fresh as a Thai orchid.

Rumble Fish

4727 Scotts Valley Dr, Scotts Valley, 831-440-9240, rumblefish-sv.com Impressive menu with lots of specialty rolls.

Sabieng Thai Cuisine

1218 Mission St, Santa Cruz, 831.425.1020, sabiengthaicuisine.com Sabieng serves classic Thai fare in a casual environment and has won numerous awards for its outstanding food.

Sala Thai

353 Soquel Ave, Santa Cruz, 831.426.1241, salathaisantacruz.com Sala Thai features authentic Thai cuisine as well as traditional Vietnamese Pho. »

SEABRIGHT SOCIAL

Sapporo Ramen

1200 41st Ave, in the New Leaf Center, Capitola, 831.475.3688, sappororamenca.com This relative newcomer features a variety of traditional ramen, as well as creative Japanese dishes such as scallop and pork belly skewers.

Sawasdee Thai Cuisine

5050 Soquel Drive, Soquel, 831.462.5051, sawasdeesoquel.com Husband-and-wife owners Bill and Dee Hongmanee have drawn from every region of Thailand to build their menu. Their success led to the opening of Sawasdee By The Sea.

Sawasdee By The Sea

101 Main St, Santa Cruz, 831.466.9009, sawasdeebythesea.com Sawasdee’s second location is right down the street from the Boardwalk. You’ll find the same great Thai food, with panoramic ocean views. The full bar and friendly staff are bonuses.

Shogun Japanese Restaurant

1123 Pacific Ave, Santa Cruz, 831.469.4477, shogunjapaneserestaurant.com Fully loaded menu with a vast selection of sushi rolls, plus lunch and dinner boxes. One of the bright spots along Pacific Avenue.

Star of Siam

3005 Porter St, Soquel, 831.479.0366, starofsiamsoquel.com Serving traditional Thai cuisine in the heart of Soquel for more than 30 years, with a comfortable, open space suitable for parties and families. Open daily for lunch and dinner.

Sushi Garden

820 Bay Ave, Capitola, 831.464.9192, sushi-garden.com; 1441 Main St, Watsonville, 831.728.9192; 38 Rancho Del Mar, Aptos, 831.661.0721, sushigardenaptos.com 5600 Scotts Valley Drive, Suite C, Scotts Valley, 831.438.9260, sushigardenscottsvalley.com

TARMO HANNULA

This pretty, feel-good restaurant is known for its occasional sake-tasting parties, as well as fine sushi. Portions are plentiful and there is a large sake list. Yan Flower

1617 Pacific Ave, Santa Cruz, 831.423.2574, yanflower.com Located at the end of Pacific Avenue close to the Santa Cruz Wharf and Boardwalk, this popular restaurant offers made-to-order authentic Chinese cuisine to eat in or take out.

HAWAIIAN/ HAWAIIAN FUSION

Aloha Island Grille

1700 Portola Drive, Santa Cruz, 831.479.3299, alohaislandgrille.com One block from the beach and 3,000 miles from Hawaii, Aloha Island Grille is known for its portions, great prices and ono (good) food.

Hula’s Bar & Grill and Tiki Lounge

221 Cathcart St, Santa Cruz, 831.426.4852, hulastiki.com Massively popular due to its island feel and tasty plates like Duke’s Luau Pork Plate, Island Style Cioppino, Sweet Potato Fries and more. The full bar knocks out some good cocktails, too.

Makai Island Kitchen and Groggery

49A Municipal Wharf, Santa Cruz, 831.466.9766, makaisantacruz.com Located on the Santa Cruz wharf, surrounded by the beauty of the Monterey Bay, Makai Island Kitchen serves up the foods, flavors, flowers, and fun of Hawaii and beyond.

Pono Hawaiian Grill

3744 Capitola Rd, Santa Cruz, 831.476.7458

Serving pupus, poke, plate lunches and more, along with craft beers, cider and local wine.

MEDITERRANEAN /EUROPEAN

Café Sparrow

8042 Soquel Drive, Aptos, 831.688.6238, cafesparrow.com “Country French” comes alive in this charm-drenched cafe for breakfast, lunch, a romantic dinner, or family gettogethers. If your idea of comfort food runs to gourmet, this is your place.

Gabriella Café

910 Cedar St, Santa Cruz, 831.457.1677, gabriellacafe.com The seductive menu continues to make Gabriella the quintessential Santa Cruz date restaurant, yet the reasonable prices make romance affordable every day. Locally sourced produce, sustainable meats and seafood, and attention to detail make Gabriella a winner.

Laili

101 Cooper St, Santa Cruz, 831.423.4545, lailirestaurant.com » Perfect for date night, Laili serves kabobs, flatbreads and creative

dishes based on contemporary Mediterranean and Afghan inspiration. Try dishes that include housemade chutneys and sauces. One of the better values downtown.

Mozaic

110 Church St, Santa Cruz, 831.454.8663, mozaicsantacruz.com Specializing in recipes from Greece, Lebanon, Turkey, and Sicily, Mozaic offers a full bar with specialty cocktails, and belly dancing on Friday nights.

Nick the Greek

1133 Pacific Ave, Santa Cruz, 831.431.6313, nickthegreeksj.com Traditional Greek street food. Gyros and Souvlaki just like the old country.

Vasili’s Greek Restaurant

1501A Mission St, Santa Cruz, 831.458.9808, vasilisgreekrestaurant.com Greek dishes that many of us know and love are made fresh at this downto-earth restaurant that feels like a visit to a Greek taverna. Try classic Greek specialties and Greek wine.

Zameen Mediterranean Cuisine

7528 Soquel Drive, Aptos, 831.688.4465; 41st Ave, Santa Cruz, 831.713.5520, zameencuisine.com Casual dining for falafel, kebabs (including vegetarian) and spicy lamb dishes. Entrées come in three sizes and the prices are right. Beer and wine.

BURGERS & PIZZAS

Bantam

1010 Fair Ave, Santa Cruz, 831.420.0101, bantam1010.com A true standout in the wave of craft pizza places, Bantam has developed a following of foodies who love the restaurant’s organic ingredients, innovative menu and reasonable prices.

Betty Burgers

1000 41st Ave, Capitola, 831.475.5901; 505 Seabright Ave, Santa Cruz, 831.423.8190, bettyburgers.com

Serving up delicious burgers made from Black Angus beef in two prime locations, Betty’s is a local hit. You’ll dig the fries, onion rings and shakes.

Betty’s Eat Inn

1222 Pacific Ave, Santa Cruz, 831.600.7056

The sister eatery to the popular Betty Burgers adds some zest to the downtown strip, with striking aesthetics in this Santa Cruz version of a diner. Front patio seating and good bar service.

burger.

1520 Mission St, Santa Cruz, 831.425.5300; 7941 Soquel Drive, Aptos, 831.662.2811, burgerlovesbeer.com A modern burger place like no other, these two popular hotspots win points for California grass-fed beef, local produce and a creative menu. Check out the amazing shakes and loads of brews on tap.

Cassidy’s Pizza

1400 Freedom Blvd, Watsonville, 831.724.2271, cassidyspizza.com Family-owned spot serving pizza, sandwiches, and classic appetizers like garlic bread and buffalo wings.

East Side Eatery

800 41st Ave, Santa Cruz, 831.431.6058, pleasurepizzasc.com Across the street from sister restaurant Pleasure Pizza, East Side Eatery boasts the same great pizza, plus salads, pasta, sandwiches, burgers, and a dogfriendly outdoor patio.

Engfer Pizza Works

537 Seabright Ave, Santa Cruz, 831.429.1856, engferpizzaworks.com You have to love a place that offers built-to-suit toppings, where the traditional mushroom and sausage compete with more avant-garde arrangements like broccoli and pesto. Gluten-free options.

Joe’s Pizza & Subs

841 Branciforte Ave, Santa Cruz, 831.426.5955

Great sandwiches, darn good pizza, surprisingly good Middle Eastern fare—and more. Very good value.

Kianti’s Pizza & Pasta Bar

1100 Pacific Ave, Santa Cruz, 831.469.4400, kiantis.com The staff dances, the food sizzles, the crowd is having fun. Try any original breakfast pizza or the traditional Italian pizza.

Main Street Burgers & Brews

1116 Main St, Watsonville, 831.536.4632

South County burger spot features 100% natural, grass-fed beef, with a range of options that stretch from the classic double cheeseburger to a chorizo burger and barbecue pulled pork. Wide selection of beers.

Mountain Mike's

3715 Portola Drive, Santa Cruz, 831.477.7760, mountainmikesportoladrive.com Sometimes only Mountain Mike’s can fix it. And they deliver.

Pizza My Heart

1116 Pacific Ave, Santa Cruz, 831.426.2511; 209 Esplanade, Capitola, 831.475.5714; 2180 41st Ave, Capitola, 831.475.6000, pizzamyheart.com A multiple winner for Best Pizza in GT’s Best of Santa Cruz Readers’ Poll, Pizza My Heart has mastered the art of creating the finest slices with walkthrough ordering, as well as popular whole pizzas.

Pizzeria Avanti

1711 Mission St, Santa Cruz, 831.425.1807, pizzeriaavanti.net Delicious and inventive pizza, pasta, salads and more, made with locally sourced organic ingredients and humanely raised meats. Nice selection of wine, beer and desserts.

Pleasure Pizza

4000 Portola Drive, Santa Cruz, 831.475.4999; 1415 Pacific Ave, Santa Cruz, 831.600.7859; pleasurepizzasc.com At Portola and 41st, the original Pleasure Pizza is the surfers’ choice for snagging a slice before or after catching some waves. At the downtown location, everyone gets to enjoy this local favorite.

Redwood Pizzeria

6205 Highway 9, Felton, 831.335.1500, redwoodpizza.com Serving organic pizza, lasagne and salads with locally sourced ingredients.

Upper Crust Pizza and Pasta

2415 Mission St, Santa Cruz, 831.423.9010, uppercrustsc.com Upper Crust serves up unique Sicilian square pizza, as well as homemadestyle pasta dishes, oven-baked sandwiches, thin-crust pizzas and Sicilian muffaletta sandwiches.

Woodstock’s Pizza

710 Front St, Santa Cruz, 831.427.4444, woodstockscruz.com Great taste meets epic party. From Sriracha to carnitas to tater tots and bacon, recipes are classic or creative, with whole wheat or GF crust options. Craft beer, outdoor patio, delivery.

TEAS AND COFFEES

The Abbey

350 Mission St, Santa Cruz, 831.429.1058, abbeycoffee.org The Abbey is an off-the-beaten-track gem of a hangout for students and all who still feel at home in student hangouts. Spacious with a special vibe. Excellent housemade chai and hibiscus coolers.

Cafe del Sol

1266 Soquel Ave, Santa Cruz, 831.423.8632, staffoflifemarket.com Inside the Staff of Life natural foods store, Cafe del Sol is part of a larger covered outdoor market. Specialty coffees, made-to-order juices and smoothies can be had at one of the greenest companies around. On-site bakery.

Cat & Cloud Coffee

3600 Portola Drive, Santa Cruz; 719 Swift St, Suite 56, Santa Cruz; 10 » Parade St, Suite A, Aptos; 725 Front St, Santa Cruz, catandcloud.com