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Santa Cruz Restaurants

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Award winning restaurants in San Francisco Bay Area

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Check out diners' favourite restaurants in Santa Cruz

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
•
4.9
(273)
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 Jack O'Neill Restaurant & Lounge restaurant
Jack O'Neill Restaurant & Lounge
Price: Expensive
•
Contemporary American
•
4.7
(1,977)
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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Gabriella Cafe
Top-rated food
•
Price: Very Expensive
•
Italian
•
4.7
(977)
Zagat rated as "OUTSTANDING". Gabriella Cafe is a 50 seat, picturesque and romantic dining experience in downtown Santa Cruz.
A photo of Laili restaurant
Laili
Price: Moderate
•
Mediterranean
•
4.6
(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 Alderwood Santa Cruz restaurant
Alderwood Santa Cruz
Price: Very Expensive
•
Contemporary American
•
4.7
(654)
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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Oblò
Top-rated hospitality
•
Price: Expensive
•
Italian
•
4.7
(57)
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.
A photo of Oswald restaurant
Oswald
Price: Expensive
•
Contemporary American
•
4.6
(1,615)
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 Suda restaurant
Suda
Price: Expensive
•
American
•
4.8
(383)
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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The View, a Treeside Restaurant
Great vibe
•
Price: Expensive
•
Contemporary American
•
4.1
(1,189)
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
•
Californian
•
4.5
(628)
Savor our handcrafted cocktails and flavorful dishes right beside the distillery where our premium spirits are crafted. Whether you prefer indoor dining, a lively bar atmosphere, or our covered heated patio, we provide a variety of seating options to enhance your experience.
HOURS:
Monday - Thursday // 5pm - 9pm
Friday // 4pm - 9pm
Saturday - Sunday // 11:30am - 9pm
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Chocolate the Restaurant
Great budget-friendly spot
•
Price: Expensive
•
Californian
•
4.6
(88)
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.

Outdoor dining in San Francisco Bay Area

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See what locals rave about in Santa Cruz

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • LeifVIP
    Miami - Dade •11 reviews
    4.0
    Dined today
    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
    •
    4.7
  • Alex
    Los Angeles •1 review
    5.0
    Dined today
    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
    •
    4.6
  • Peter
    Paris •2 reviews
    4.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Always above average food and excellent service. Always our go to for a date night.
    More info
    OswaldPrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Santa Cruz
    •
    4.6
  • donna
    San Francisco Bay Area •10 reviews
    4.0
    Dined on 27 Dec 2024
    Our dinner was OK! We were expecting something a bit different. It was not bad but it was disappointing that it was not more of a traditional Italian menu. My husband ordered the pork chop and thought it was very tasty. I got the butternut squash raviolis. They were a bit dry and could of used more flavor. The Caesar salad was just ok. Needed a bit more flavor. I know they have good reviews so we probably just ordered the wrong dishes. I would try them again some time.
    More info
    Gabriella CafePrice: Very Expensive• Italian• Santa Cruz
    •
    4.7
  • DavidVIP
    San Francisco Bay Area •16 reviews
    4.0
    Dined on 15 Dec 2024
    My friend had the seafood pasta she had the gluten-free pasta which added two dollars to the service. I had the special which was a beef tenderloin tortellini style pasta with a creamy sauce, which was very good. My friend had the seafood pasta, she really enjoyed it. She thought it was an excellent value, and the flavor was very good. I like the overall feel of the restaurant. I like the fact you’re not freezing inside of it which it can be a problem with many restaurants in Santa Cruz. This restaurant was very warm and comfortable and we will definitely be back with friends. 
    More info
    OblòPrice: Expensive• Italian• Santa Cruz
    •
    4.7

Trending dishes in Santa Cruz

Explore dishes that diners are raving about
Pomegranate Eggplant
Pomegranate Eggplant
Laili
•
4.6
Ravioli Mezza Luna
Ravioli Mezza Luna
Mezza Luna Restaurant
•
4.7
Steak Tips
Steak Tips
Forbes Mill Steakhouse - Los Gatos
•
4.7
Cheese Fondue
Cheese Fondue
La Fondue - Saratoga
•
4.5
Grilled Octopus
Grilled Octopus
La Costanera
•
4.6
Carbonara
Carbonara
Carmel's Bistro Giovanni
•
4.7

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Frequently asked questions

Celebrate special occasions at the best restaurants in Santa Cruz. Our customers recommend la Posta, Jack O'Neill Restaurant & Lounge and Laili

As of 5 Jan 2025 there are 22 restaurants in Santa Cruz. Filter by ‘outdoor dining’, ‘romantic’ or ‘dog friendly’.

On OpenTable we support all cuisines. Find Contemporary American, Californian, Italian, Mediterranean, American and more. Use our filters to find exactly what you’re looking for and make your booking today.

Yes! We partner with restaurants in Santa Cruz who deliver with Toast, Postmates, Uber Eats, Olo, ChowNow.

Yes, you can also see restaurants near you offering takeaway.

Yes! OpenTable provides free, convenient and trusted options to book the best restaurants in Santa Cruz either on OpenTable or directly with the restaurant.

Yes, we partner with a third party to retrieve menu information for restaurants near you.

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