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Santa Cruz / Capitola / Aptos Restaurants

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Award-winning restaurants in San Francisco Bay Area

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

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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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la Posta
Diners’ top pick
•
Price: Moderate
•
Italian
•
4.8
(2331)
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 Sugo Italian Pasta Bar restaurant
Sugo Italian Pasta Bar
Price: Moderate
•
Italian
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4.8
(261)
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 Gabriella Cafe restaurant
Gabriella Cafe
Price: Very Expensive
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Italian
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4.7
(974)
Zagat rated as "OUTSTANDING". Gabriella Cafe is a 50 seat, picturesque and romantic dining experience in downtown Santa Cruz.
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Pete's Fish House
Top-rated food
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Price: Expensive
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Seafood
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4.6
(30)
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.
A photo of Laili restaurant
Laili
Price: Moderate
•
Mediterranean
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4.7
(2858)
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 Alderwood Santa Cruz restaurant
Alderwood Santa Cruz
Price: Very Expensive
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Contemporary American
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4.7
(642)
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.
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Jack O'Neill Restaurant & Lounge
Top-rated hospitality
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Price: Expensive
•
Contemporary American
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4.8
(1956)
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.
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
(2029)
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 Oblò restaurant
Oblò
Price: Expensive
•
Italian
•
4.6
(51)
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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The View, a Treeside Restaurant
Great vibe
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Price: Expensive
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Contemporary American
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4.2
(1158)
Set high on a hilltop with breathtaking panoramic views of the Monterey Bay, The View, at Chaminade offers a unique dining experience. Indoor and outdoor seating allows guests to enjoy the naturally beautiful scenery which compliments the contemporary California Cuisine. Whether it’s sustainable seafood or locally grown produce, The View emphasizes natural ingredients while providing four-diamond service. A 4% surcharge will be added to all guest checks to help cover increases in labor costs and to support a higher minimum wage.
***Please note that our kitchen closes from 1:30pm-2:00pm to prepare for dinner service. Our bar and restaurant remain open during that time, offering a fine selection of local wines, craft beers, signature cocktails, and non-alcoholic refreshments to enjoy.
A photo of Venus Spirits Cocktails & Kitchen | Westside restaurant
Venus Spirits Cocktails & Kitchen | Westside
Price: Expensive
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Californian
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4.5
(615)
Enjoy handcrafted cocktails and food right next to the distillery where our spirits are produced. Indoor, bar and covered heated patio seating available.
Hours:
Monday to Thursday 5pm-9pm
Friday to Sunday 4pm-9pm
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Suda
Great budget-friendly spot
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Price: Expensive
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American
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4.8
(379)
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.
A photo of Oswald restaurant
Oswald
Price: Expensive
•
Contemporary American
•
4.6
(1612)
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.
A photo of Chocolate the Restaurant restaurant
Chocolate the Restaurant
Price: Expensive
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Californian
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4.7
(82)
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.

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

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you

Trending dishes in Santa Cruz / Capitola / Aptos

Explore dishes that diners are raving about
Ravioli Mezza Luna
Ravioli Mezza Luna
Mezza Luna Restaurant
•
4.7
Steak Tips
Steak Tips
Forbes Mill Steakhouse - Los Gatos
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4.7
Cheese Fondue
Cheese Fondue
La Fondue - Saratoga
•
4.7
Grilled Octopus
Grilled Octopus
La Costanera
•
4.5
Carbonara
Carbonara
Carmel's Bistro Giovanni
•
4.6
Brownie Stuffed Chocolate Chip Cookie
Brownie Stuffed Chocolate Chip Cookie
Rise Woodfire - San Mateo
•
4.5

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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 Rosie McCann's Irish Pub & Restaurant - Santa Cruz

The best vegan restaurants in Santa Cruz / Capitola / Aptos are Laili, Jack O'Neill Restaurant & Lounge and Chocolate the Restaurant

The best vegetarian restaurants in Santa Cruz / Capitola / Aptos are Laili, Oswald and la Posta

The restaurants with the best service in Santa Cruz / Capitola / Aptos are The Water Street Grill, Rosie McCann's Irish Pub & Restaurant - Santa Cruz and Woodstock's Pizza - Santa Cruz

The restaurants with the best ambiance in Santa Cruz / Capitola / Aptos are Rosie McCann's Irish Pub & Restaurant - Santa Cruz, Vinocruz and Woodstock's Pizza - Santa Cruz

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