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Best Californian Restaurants in Santa Cruz

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14 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Chocolate the Restaurant restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(82)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Santa Cruz
Booked 4 times today
Chocolate the Restaurant in Santa Cruz perfectly encapsulates the essence of Californian cuisine with its emphasis on fresh, organic ingredients and a creative culinary approach. Celebrating 25 years of culinary excellence, this spot is a haven for food lovers seeking an authentic Californian dining experience. Patrons rave about the "rich and delicious" food, particularly noting the fusion of local flavors in dishes like the Oaxacan chicken mole and the freshly baked pasta rosettes. The restaurant's use of locally sourced spirits and house-made mixers in their cocktails adds to the authentic local vibe. "The garden dining is beautiful and intimate," one reviewer noted, praising the restaurant's ability to merge atmosphere with gastronomy, making it a standout in the Californian culinary scene. Whether it's the innovative chocolate-infused dishes or the vibrant cocktails, Chocolate the Restaurant offers a distinct and memorable taste of California.
A photo of Gabriella Cafe restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(975)
Price: Very Expensive
• Californian • Santa Cruz
Booked 4 times today
Gabriella Cafe in downtown Santa Cruz is a celebrated gem, renowned for its authentic Italian cuisine, and Zagat rated as "OUTSTANDING." Patrons rave about the "amazing, fresh, and delicious farm-to-table cuisine," highlighting the "best focaccia bread I've ever had" and a "fantastic Caesar salad." The romantic and picturesque setting enhances the dining experience, making it perfect for both special occasions and casual outings. Reviews consistently praise the "excellent wine selection" and "fantastic service," ensuring each meal is a delightful journey into Italian culinary excellence. Whether it's the "beautiful and delicious" dishes or the "charming and quaint" atmosphere, Gabriella Cafe promises an unforgettable Italian dining experience right in the heart of Santa Cruz.
A photo of Woodstock's Pizza - Santa Cruz restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(33)
Price: Moderate
• Californian • Santa Cruz
At Woodstock's Pizza in Santa Cruz, the embodiment of Californian cuisine shines through with every slice. Known for its "legendary taste" and vibrant party scene, this spot serves up award-winning pizzas that ensure "the ingredient go to the edge," leaving no bite without sauce or toppings. Their commitment to quality is evident as they cater to various dietary needs with gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options, all while maintaining rich, authentic flavors. A patron raved, "Best pizza I've ever had. Kickin' Carnitas really had the kick!" With fresh, high-quality ingredients and a lively atmosphere, Woodstock's Pizza captures the essence of Californian dining, making it a must-visit in Santa Cruz. Whether you're enjoying a slice on the pet-friendly patio or participating in their weekly Trivia and Pint Nights, Woodstock's embodies the Californian spirit of community and good eating.
A photo of Solaire Restaurant + Bar restaurant
3.9
Excellent(215)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Santa Cruz
Booked 2 times today
Solaire Restaurant + Bar in Santa Cruz is the epitome of a perfect breakfast haven, where the quality and authenticity of the cuisine shine brightly. Known for its innovative twists on local ingredients, Solaire makes each breakfast dish a delightful experience. Diners rave about the restaurant’s vibrant atmosphere and exceptional service, with one reviewer noting the breakfast as "very delicious, flavorful, and tasty." The attention to detail is evident, from the thoughtful plating to the unique menu that stands out in Santa Cruz. Whether it’s the poolside ambiance or the creative menu, Solaire is designed to impress and satisfy all your breakfast cravings.
A photo of Ideal Bar & Grill restaurant
4.2
Awesome(304)
Price: Moderate
• Californian • Santa Cruz
Booked 5 times today
Nestled in the picturesque Santa Cruz, Ideal Bar & Grill epitomizes the essence of Californian cuisine with its delightful array of local flavors and a scenic view of the Main beach and Municipal Wharf. Praised for its "award-winning clam chowder" and fresh seafood dishes, this family-friendly spot offers a sunlit deck for an immersive dining experience. Guests rave about the "delicious meal and attentive server" and the "phenomenal service" that make each visit memorable. Whether it's the beautifully prepared prime rib or the fresh oysters, Ideal Bar & Grill captures the fresh, innovative spirit of Californian culinary excellence, making it a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists alike.
A photo of Jack O'Neill Restaurant & Lounge restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(1959)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Santa Cruz
Booked 26 times today
Jack O'Neill Restaurant & Lounge in Santa Cruz is a gem for authentic Californian cuisine, offering a perfect blend of quality, flavor, and ambiance that showcases the best of coastal California. With its "wonderful dinner experience" and "delicious food," this restaurant stands out for both locals and visitors. The menu features fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, with dishes like the praised "whole fish entry" and "creamy polenta" that leave guests raving about their meals. The stunning ocean views add an extra layer of delight, enhancing the dining experience. As one review puts it, the food is "fresh, delicious, and well-prepared/presented," making Jack O'Neill not just a meal but an event worth returning to. Whether it's for a memorable lunch by the ocean or a dinner at sunset, this spot is celebrated for making each visit special with its impeccable service and unmatched locale.
A photo of Venus Spirits Cocktails & Kitchen | Westside restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(617)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Santa Cruz
Booked 19 times today
Venus Spirits Cocktails & Kitchen in Santa Cruz is celebrated for its exemplary distillery cuisine, offering a unique dining experience right beside where their spirits are crafted. Patrons rave about the quality of both the food and drinks, with reviews highlighting "top notch" cocktails and "amazing" handcrafted spirits that showcase the venue's commitment to quality and authenticity. The restaurant's atmosphere, described as perfect for any occasion, complements its menu, making it a go-to spot in the Westside neighborhood. The commitment to excellence is evident, as one diner exclaimed, "if there wasn't so many people within watching distance, our group would have licked the plate clean just to get every last flavor crystal." This seamless blend of fine spirits and culinary expertise ensures a memorable dining experience at Venus Spirits.
A photo of la Posta restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(2332)
Price: Moderate
• Californian • Santa Cruz
Booked 24 times today
At La Posta in Santa Cruz, diners are treated to an unforgettable Italian culinary experience that celebrates the finest local ingredients. Guests rave about the "closest to the neighborhood restaurants in northern Italy" quality, with a menu that changes frequently to highlight the freshest produce and artisanal touches like house-made pastas and naturally leavened breads. The ambiance is complemented by an all-Italian wine list, carefully curated from small producers. It's no wonder La Posta is hailed as "the best Italian food in Santa Cruz bar none," making it a must-visit for both locals and visitors seeking authentic, high-quality Italian cuisine in a welcoming atmosphere.
A photo of The View, a Treeside Restaurant restaurant
4.1
Excellent(1167)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Santa Cruz
Booked 26 times today
At The View, a Treeside Restaurant in Santa Cruz, the grill cuisine shines against the backdrop of stunning Monterey Bay views. Patrons rave about the authenticity and quality of their grilled dishes, with one guest noting, "My steak was cooked to perfection," highlighting the skillful preparation that enhances every flavorful bite. Another diner celebrated the "best preparation of calamari I’ve ever had," underscoring the restaurant's commitment to excellence in both seafood and traditional grill offerings. With its commitment to using sustainable and locally sourced ingredients, The View ensures each dish served is not only delightful but also responsible. A must-visit for anyone seeking a top-tier grill experience where the food and the views compete for your attention.
A photo of Zelda's on the Beach restaurant
4.3
Awesome(550)
Price: Moderate
• Californian • Capitola
Booked 9 times today
Nestled in the scenic Capitola Village, Zelda's on the Beach offers more than just breathtaking views of Monterey Bay—it offers a culinary journey with its exceptional steak cuisine. Patrons rave about the quality of the dishes, with one diner exclaiming the steak was "cooked to perfection." This beachfront gem combines the allure of ocean views with the rich, authentic flavors of expertly prepared steak, ensuring a dining experience that is both delightful and memorable. Whether you're enjoying a meal on their sandy beachfront deck or inside their cozy restaurant, Zelda's commitment to quality and taste shines, making every steak an exquisite highlight of your visit.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Linda
    San Francisco Bay Area •28 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    The turkey dish was excellent, the steak dish was also very good as well. We were pleased with the presentation and tastes of our dishes. Thank you.
    More info
    Ideal Bar & GrillPrice: Moderate• Californian• Santa Cruz
    4.2
  • Kathy
    San Francisco Bay Area •8 reviews
    4.0
    Dined on Nov 13, 2024
    I chose Chocolate for a birthday/retirement lunch with family. I was the only chocoholic in our party, but all enjoyed the food. We all got different hot chocolates to begin, a variety of main dishes, and different desserts, all of which we liked. I got a dark Colombian hot chocolate, which packed the kind of deep punch I like. I also got the chicken mole. They now have only one type of mole, which was a little spicier than I'm used to. I acclimated quickly and gobbled it all up, although the spice did affect the taste of the remaining hot chocolate. For dessert, I got the chocolate sin cake, which was nice and dark, though not as dense as I expected. We ate inside, which was rather dark--I had to walk over to a window to read the menu. Service was generally good and well timed, although the one soda ordered was not brought. The restaurant is quite small, so it's probably never loud inside; we were there mid-afternoon, and there were only a handful of other patrons. Metered parking right outside on the street was surprisingly available, although not cheap. There is also a covered lot right around the corner. We will definitely return!
    More info
    Chocolate the RestaurantPrice: Expensive• Californian• Santa Cruz
    4.7
  • adrianna
    San Francisco Bay Area •1 review
    5.0
    Dined on Nov 10, 2024
    Great service and outstanding food! I also love the ambience. I highly a recommend Gabrielle café.
    More info
    Gabriella CafePrice: Very Expensive• Italian• Santa Cruz
    4.7
  • Nick
    California Central Coast •3 reviews
    4.0
    Dined on Aug 16, 2024
    It was elegant and good energy. Drink menu was creative and well executed and the food was really good. I think one knock I might have is that their menu was very limited (5 main entree options). It’d be nice to see a few more options, that’s all. Similarly the wine list was very limited which isn’t in line with the overall quality of the restaurant
    More info
    Solaire Restaurant + BarPrice: Expensive• Californian• Santa Cruz
    3.9
  • PamD
    Tahoe / Reno Area •34 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Jun 17, 2024
    Super good pizza. The remodel now had a mix of walk up counter service, pizza by the slice, or full order. To get a table that is reserved, you talk with the food at the bar. It still took about 15 min to be seated. Our server was super friendly. Great selection of pizzas.
    More info
    Woodstock's Pizza - Santa CruzPrice: Moderate• Pizzeria• Santa Cruz
    4.6

Discover best Californian restaurants in Santa Cruz

Discover the essence of Californian cuisine in the Santa Cruz Bay Area, from Santa Cruz to Capitola to Aptos, where culinary creativity meets coastal charm. This region is renowned for its commitment to sustainability and locally sourced ingredients, offering a variety of dining experiences that cater to every palate. Whether you're indulging in farm-to-table delicacies, enjoying the fresh catch of the day, or treating yourself to innovative dishes that incorporate local flavors, these restaurants exemplify the vibrant and diverse culinary scene of California. The dining scene in Santa Cruz is dynamic and eclectic, characterized by a blend of casual eateries and upscale dining establishments, all emphasizing fresh, local produce and seafood. Each restaurant in the area strives to provide not only a meal but an exceptional dining experience that captures the local ethos and culinary innovation typical of Californian cuisine. From expertly crafted seafood dishes to creatively presented local produce, diners can expect a feast that delights both the palate and the eyes. Moreover, the focus on providing a satisfying customer experience is evident, with many restaurants offering breathtaking views of the ocean or cozy, inviting atmospheres perfect for any occasion. Whether you're a local or a visitor, exploring the restaurant options in this area promises a delicious journey through the heart of Californian culinary excellence. Enjoy your culinary adventure in Santa Cruz, where every meal is a celebration of taste and sustainability.

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