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Santa Cruz / Capitola / Aptos Restaurants

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Check out diners' favorite restaurants in Santa Cruz / Capitola / Aptos

Updated on

Diners’ Choice Awards are based on where your fellow diners book, dine, and review. Only verified diners get to review restaurants on OpenTable, so our data doesn’t lie.

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Sugo Italian Pasta Bar
Diners’ top pick
•
Price: Moderate
•
Italian
•
4.8
(276)
A European concept-restaurant of traditional Italian cuisine; a modern and dynamic service, that allows customers to enjoy fresh, organic and authentic italian food through a selection of appetizer, panini, pizza and salads, and obviously our specialty: "Pasta".
A photo of la Posta restaurant
la Posta
Price: Moderate
•
Italian
•
4.8
(2,343)
Select from a menu that features dishes composed of locally sourced ingredients as well as house-made pastas, naturally leavened breads and pizzas from our brick oven.
Because we rely on the bounty of the Santa Cruz farming community, our menu changes frequently and features a wide array of specials. La Posta’s all-Italian wine list includes autochthonous varieties from small producers, by-the-glass and by the bottle.
La Posta adheres to the Monterey Bay Seafood Watch Program and is a certified City of Santa Cruz Green Business.
We are so thankful for the incredible support from our customers and community.
We will continue to adjust our service based upon best practices for keeping our staff and community safe.
A photo of Oblò restaurant
Oblò
Price: Expensive
•
Italian
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4.7
(58)
Modern Italian cuisine with Californian influence, sit in our beautiful dining room or enjoy one of our amazing craft drinks in the comfort and cozy lounge bar area.
Our chef Andrea designed an innovative menu that perfect match with the list of cocktails craft from the Bar manager Keith Fox.
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Gabriella Cafe
Top-rated food
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Price: Very Expensive
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Italian
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4.6
(978)
Zagat rated as "OUTSTANDING". Gabriella Cafe is a 50 seat, picturesque and romantic dining experience in downtown Santa Cruz.
A photo of Alderwood Santa Cruz restaurant
Alderwood Santa Cruz
Price: Very Expensive
•
Contemporary American
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4.6
(655)
Alderwood, under the culinary leadership of Executive Chef Mikey Adams, is dedicated to providing a dining experience that strikes a delicate balance between the comfort and warmth of home and the vibrancy of the downtown dining scene. Our mission is to offer our guests an exceptional and memorable meal that is deeply rooted in our commitment to fostering a genuine connection between our open kitchen and the local community. We welcome you to join us for an unforgettable culinary journey that celebrates the essence of togetherness and exceptional cuisine.
A photo of Jack O'Neill Restaurant & Lounge restaurant
Jack O'Neill Restaurant & Lounge
Price: Expensive
•
Contemporary American
•
4.7
(1,978)
Jack O’Neill Restaurant and Lounge is Santa Cruz’s best new destination for coastal California cuisine. The approachable and family-friendly vibe at Jack O’Neill Restaurant and Lounge will welcome hotel guests and locals alike.
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Laili
Top-rated hospitality
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Price: Moderate
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Mediterranean
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4.7
(2,869)
Laili is our expression of love through food and service. We offer a unique menu made up of fusion Afghani Mediterranean items that include kabobs, wraps, flatbreads, pastas, and spiced lamb and chicken dishes as well as delicious vegetarian options.
Laili Restaurant "BEST MIDDLE EASTERN RESTAURANT", Good Times 2023, Voted #1
Rich Mediterranean Flavors with a Unique Afghan Twist in the Heart of Downtown Santa Cruz.
Currently taking reservations for lunch and dinner, walk-ins welcome too.
Dine in our elegant, secluded, off street patio. Visit our website for event information.
A photo of Cafe Cruz Rosticceria & Bar restaurant
Cafe Cruz Rosticceria & Bar
Price: Moderate
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Contemporary American
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4.7
(2,052)
Cafe Cruz is a popular and lively local restaurant. We offer casual/fine dining with a full bar, indoor and heated patio dining. Guests enjoy watching the "magic" created in our open copper-backed kitchen each night by our talented team of chefs. Notable features include many locally sourced foods, nightly sustainable seafood specials, and many creative salad and vegetable options. Our innovative pastas and sandwiches are always a hit.
Spit-Roasted meats are featured each night, cooked on a french Rotisol rotisserie. The lush garden room can seat larger parties of up to 35. Guests enjoy our warm friendly service, our many seating options, and exceptionally delicious food.
A photo of Pete's Fish House restaurant
Pete's Fish House
Price: Expensive
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Californian
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4.5
(37)
A culinary celebration of California's coastal offerings, and a heartfelt tribute to the late Peter Orr. Founded by Sarah Orr and her mother Mary Ann Orr of Sunset Hospitality Group, Pete's Fish House embodies a deep-rooted passion for community and culinary excellence.
Named in honor of Sarah's father and mentor, this restaurant is more than just a dining experience—it's a reflection of cherished memories and Peter’s larger than life legacy. Sarah explains, "I have been looking for a way to honor him, and this feels like the right way to do that."
At Pete's Fish House, expect a menu that is inspired by the coastal waters and the bountiful local agriculture that Peter was deeply committed to, ensuring a true representation of our region's culinary heritage.
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Mozaic - Santa Cruz
Great vibe
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Price: Moderate
•
Mediterranean
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4.7
(476)
We named our restaurant Mozaic because we wanted to capture the diversity of flavors and culmination of authentic Mediterranean dishes that we offer. We bring together the best of Mediterranean recipes from Greece, Lebanon, Turkey and Sicily, emphasizing Middle Eastern influence.
Our menu is hand-crafted after years of experience in the restaurant business knowing what people like. We make every dish completely authentic, utilizing 100 years old techniques that have been passed down through generations to bring you incredible flavor. COME AND TASTE THE DIFFERENCE We seek only the best, local ingredients. We use high-quality meats, like our Australian lamb tenderloin and select only sustainable seafood. Our lavash comes from an authentic Persian bakery.
Everyone wants family. Mozaic is a warm and inviting atmosphere where everyone can feel at home. Come enjoy our incredible and lush atmosphere.
A photo of Suda restaurant
Suda
Price: Expensive
•
American
•
4.9
(387)
Pairing seasonal produce from local farmers with line caught fish and lean, hormone-free beef, the menu at Süda stays as fresh as the ingredients. With a variety of inventive dishes, including vegan and gluten free options, there is truly something for everyone.
The atmosphere at the bar is lively, while booths offer diners a more intimate experience making Süda the perfect place for a casual meal with friends or a night out with someone special. We are open for breakfast, lunch and dinner so you can enjoy fresh food whenever your heart desires.
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Chocolate the Restaurant
Great budget-friendly spot
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Price: Expensive
•
Californian
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4.6
(89)
Now celebrating 25 years, Chocolate the Restaurant provides an attractive dining environment for couples on dates, friendly meetings, and special occasion meals. Dine outside on the heated garden patio. Celebrate special occasions with up to 25 guests in the private street-side party room. Maybe start with a Chocolate Martini or a Passion Fruit Margarita. Chef David Jackman's fresh baked pasta rosettes, slow-roasted meats, and delicious seasonal organic vegetable dishes are all a prelude to our many chocolaty desserts. Our wine list focuses on local and on Italian wines. Our cocktails are all made from scratch; often using locally distilled spirits, and always using fresh house-made mixers. We are at your service for dinner every night! Afternoon walk-up cafe' service Friday thru Sunday. . We are open for dinner every holiday except Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.
A photo of Oswald restaurant
Oswald
Price: Expensive
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Contemporary American
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4.6
(1,616)
Oswald is a contemporary American restaurant and bar that focuses on the abundance of delicious ingredients found on the central coast of California. Oswald features an eclectic, international wine list and an exciting, seasonal bar program. While the decor is spare and modern, the atmosphere is comfortable and relaxed. Oswald features new art shows every two months.
We do have first come tables available in the lounge as well as bar seats.
Come by and see if there is a table or seat for you.

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See what locals rave about in Santa Cruz / Capitola / Aptos

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • JulieVIP
    California Central Coast •54 reviews
    4.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    This restaurant offers an enchanting and romantic atmosphere, made even more special by the delightful 3-piece band playing live music. The decor is absolutely stunning, adding to the overall ambiance. The food was exceptional, with the funghi appetizer and pancetta-wrapped prawns stealing the show—both perfectly prepared and bursting with flavor. The fresh-baked bread is a real plus. For our mains, we enjoyed the marsala pasta and the ragu. Both dishes were rich, hearty, and served in generous portions. This dining experience was truly memorable, and we can’t wait to return!
    More info
    OblòPrice: Expensive• Italian• Santa Cruz
    •
    4.7
  • LeifVIP
    Miami - Dade •12 reviews
    4.0
    Dined 6 days ago
    Excellent food and service-MUCH improved over the last time we tried this restaurant about 6 months ago!
    More info
    Alderwood Santa CruzPrice: Very Expensive• Contemporary American• Santa Cruz
    •
    4.6
  • Alex
    Los Angeles •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 6 days ago
    Really great experience at Laili, we went for our anniversary and were both very pleased with the ambiance, food, and service. Even got a comp’ed chocolate tart for the occasion. Would eat there again for sure.
    More info
    LailiPrice: Moderate• Mediterranean• Santa Cruz
    •
    4.7
  • LoriVIP
    Sacramento / Sacramento Valley •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Dec 30, 2024
    Gavin was amazing! Such a wonderful knowledgeable server! The entire wait staff and host were attentive friendly and fun!!
    More info
    la PostaPrice: Moderate• Italian• Santa Cruz
    •
    4.8
  • MayderVIP
    California Central Coast •10 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Oct 1, 2024
    We loved the way they admitted our dog even at the bar/restaurant. A thousand of thumbs up for that.
    More info
    Solaire Restaurant + BarPrice: Expensive• Californian• Santa Cruz
    •
    2.5

Trending dishes in Santa Cruz / Capitola / Aptos

Explore dishes that diners are raving about
Pomegranate Eggplant
Pomegranate Eggplant
Laili
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4.7
Ravioli Mezza Luna
Ravioli Mezza Luna
Mezza Luna Restaurant
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4.7
Steak Tips
Steak Tips
Forbes Mill Steakhouse - Los Gatos
•
4.7
Cheese Fondue
Cheese Fondue
La Fondue - Saratoga
•
4.4
Grilled Octopus
Grilled Octopus
La Costanera
•
4.7
Carbonara
Carbonara
Carmel's Bistro Giovanni
•
4.7

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Dining around Santa Cruz / Capitola / Aptos Hot Spots

Frequently asked questions

The best reviewed restaurant in Santa Cruz / Capitola / Aptos is Back Nine Grill & Bar

The best vegan restaurants in Santa Cruz / Capitola / Aptos are The View, a Treeside Restaurant, Laili and Chocolate the Restaurant

The best vegetarian restaurants in Santa Cruz / Capitola / Aptos are Laili, The View, a Treeside Restaurant and Venus Spirits Cocktails & Kitchen | Westside

The restaurants with the best service in Santa Cruz / Capitola / Aptos are Back Nine Grill & Bar, Vinocruz and Woodstock's Pizza - Santa Cruz

The restaurants with the best ambiance in Santa Cruz / Capitola / Aptos are Woodstock's Pizza - Santa Cruz, Suda and Oblò

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