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Best Californian Restaurants in Soquel

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15 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Pete's Capitola restaurant
1. Pete's Capitola
4.5
Awesome(50)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Capitola
Booked 2 times today
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 Zelda's on the Beach restaurant
2. Zelda's on the Beach
4.5
Awesome(565)
Price: Moderate
• Californian • Capitola
Booked 1 time today
Zelda's on the Beach offers a truly remarkable Seafood experience in the heart of Capitola Village. Nestled right on the beach, diners can savor exquisite dishes while enjoying breathtaking views of Monterey Bay and the Capitola Wharf. Renowned for its fresh and authentic Seafood, Zelda's serves delectable options like lemon halibut over risotto and grilled salmon, which have earned rave reviews such as "dinner specials were over the top wonderful." With a beachfront deck that invites relaxation, alongside attentive service and a vibrant atmosphere, Zelda's ensures a dining experience that delights both locals and visitors alike.
A photo of The View Restaurant & Bar restaurant
3. The View Restaurant & Bar
4.4
Awesome(1223)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Santa Cruz
Booked 7 times today
Nestled in the scenic hills of Santa Cruz, The View, a Treeside Restaurant, offers an unparalleled grill dining experience. Esteemed for its dedication to quality, this restaurant combines the finest locally sourced ingredients with exquisite grill techniques, making each dish a testament to authentic grill excellence. Diners rave about the "fantastic food and breathtaking views," which make every visit unforgettable. With a commitment to sustainable practices and four-diamond service, The View stands out as a top choice for grill enthusiasts. Whether celebrating a special occasion or enjoying a casual meal, guests are treated to a perfect blend of superb cuisine and spectacular scenery.
A photo of Venus Spirits Cocktails & Kitchen | Beachside restaurant
4. Venus Spirits Cocktails & Kitchen | Beachside
4.5
Awesome(361)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Aptos
Booked 12 times today
Venus Spirits Cocktails & Kitchen | Beachside in Aptos, CA, is a haven for seafood enthusiasts, offering an exemplary fish cuisine that leaves diners raving. With "delicious food" as a hallmark, the restaurant garners praise for its perfectly cooked calamari and flavorful salmon dishes. Guests delight in the "exceptional experience" of savoring fresh, locally-sourced seafood that embodies the coastal essence. The standout mention of "the best cioppino" ever tasted underscores the authenticity and quality of their fish offerings. Venus Beachside not only promises a delectable dining adventure but also delivers it with a vibrant atmosphere and attentive service, making it an irresistible culinary destination.
A photo of Sanderlings - Seascape Resort restaurant
5. Sanderlings - Seascape Resort
3.7
Very Good(1300)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Aptos
Booked 4 times today
Sanderlings at Seascape Resort in Aptos delivers a quintessential American dining experience with a fresh twist, offering a "new farm-to-table menu" that showcases creativity and quality. Diners rave about the "fantastic" food, with standout dishes like the Wagyu Bavette and Lobster Hokkaido Scallop entrees, which highlight the restaurant's commitment to excellence. The elegant yet casual ambiance, paired with spectacular ocean views, makes it a perfect spot for both locals and visitors. As one satisfied guest noted, the "view is over the top," adding an unforgettable backdrop to the delightful culinary journey. Sanderlings truly embodies the essence of refined American cuisine.
A photo of la Posta restaurant
6. la Posta
4.8
Exceptional(2366)
Price: Moderate
• Californian • Santa Cruz
Booked 27 times today
La Posta in Santa Cruz offers a delightful Californian dining experience that truly stands out for its authenticity and quality. Embracing the farm-to-table philosophy, La Posta features dishes crafted from locally sourced ingredients, ensuring each bite captures the essence of California's bounty. Reviewers rave about their "amazing food" and "outstanding service," highlighting the restaurant's unique specials like the fig pizza and gnocchi with beef ragu. With its commitment to sustainable practices, including the Monterey Bay Seafood Watch Program, La Posta not only serves exquisite meals but also champions environmental responsibility. This hidden gem is a must-visit for anyone seeking an exceptional Californian culinary journey.
A photo of Chocolate the Restaurant restaurant
7. Chocolate the Restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(102)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Santa Cruz
Booked 2 times today
Chocolate the Restaurant is a standout destination for Mediterranean cuisine in Santa Cruz, offering a delightful blend of authenticity and innovation. Celebrated for its "creative and delicious" dishes, this charming spot transports diners to the Mediterranean with its "lovely garden patio" and an ambiance that feels like dining in Europe. Guests rave about the "fresh food," particularly the house-made pasta rosettes and slow-roasted meats, which are reminiscent of traditional Mediterranean flavors. Paired with a curated selection of local and Italian wines, each meal is a memorable experience. A visit to Chocolate the Restaurant promises not just dinner, but a culinary journey.
A photo of Jack O'Neill Restaurant & Lounge restaurant
8. Jack O'Neill Restaurant & Lounge
4.7
Exceptional(1993)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Santa Cruz
Booked 26 times today
Jack O'Neill Restaurant & Lounge in Santa Cruz is a beacon of authentic Californian cuisine, offering diners a taste of the coast with every bite. The menu, known for its "locally sourced" ingredients, showcases the vibrant flavors of California with a dedication to quality that's hard to beat. Guests rave about the "delicious crab cakes" and "amazing mushroom pasta," which highlight the restaurant's commitment to fresh, local produce. The "beautiful ocean view" complements the exquisite dishes, making each dining experience unforgettable. With its "fabulous service" and inviting atmosphere, Jack O'Neill promises a quintessential Californian dining adventure for all.
A photo of Solaire Restaurant + Bar restaurant
9. Solaire Restaurant + Bar
3.8
Excellent(222)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Santa Cruz
Whether it be a cocktail while soaking up the sun at the poolside patio, anexpertly prepared meal, or a spirited conversation at the bar, SolaireRestaurant + Bar offers the best of what is available with the changingseasons.Solaire offers a truly local dining destination that offers unexpected andoffbeat twists on local ingredients and flavors. The atmosphere of theseasonal restaurant changes based on the weather—in the warm weathermonths it is a playful experience centered on the indoor/outdoor restaurant spaces andthe vibrant pool scene. In the foggier months, guests can relax under the powerful outdoor heaters in our indoor/outdoor covered space while enjoying a cocktail. Mirroring the laid-back attitude of Santa Cruz, the restaurant and bar bring the natural outdoor elements inside in imaginative and modern ways.
A photo of Ideal Bar & Grill restaurant
10. Ideal Bar & Grill
4.7
Exceptional(306)
Price: Moderate
• Californian • Santa Cruz
Booked 1 time today
Ideal Bar & Grill in Santa Cruz offers an authentic American dining experience with a spectacular view of Main Beach and the Municipal Wharf. Known for its "award-winning clam chowder," this family-friendly spot boasts a diverse menu featuring classic American dishes like pulled pork sandwiches and prime rib. Patrons rave about the "delicious meals and attentive service," making it a must-visit. The sunny outdoor deck provides the perfect setting for a relaxed meal with loved ones. With glowing reviews praising its "fun atmosphere" and excellent location, Ideal Bar & Grill is the ideal choice for those seeking genuine American cuisine by the beach.
‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Rick
    San Francisco Bay Area •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Excellent experience today. Food was fresh and service friendly. Loved the focused menu and quality
    More info
    Pete's CapitolaPrice: Expensive• Californian• Capitola
    •
    4.5
  • KathyVIP
    San Francisco Bay Area •6 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    We had an outstanding meal last night. They had specials for the evening. My husband choose the filet mignon. It was a very good size served with 3 large mushroom raviolis and a nice broccoli. My husband thought the broccoli was the best he had ever had. He loved his entire dinner. I had the bravette steak. It was served on a bed of pureed sunchoke and artichokes. It was amazing. I started with the Brussel sprouts. They were the best ever. Nicely cooked and sauced. I finished the entire dish myself. Our friend had the special cod and loved it too. Overall, I was very very iimpressed with dinner. I can hardly wait to go back. Try it and you will fall in love like all of us did.
    More info
    Sanderlings - Seascape ResortPrice: Expensive• Californian• Aptos
    •
    3.7
  • Laura
    San Francisco Bay Area •12 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on 2 Mar 2025
    Went for early dinner , took advantage of happy hour menu. Very good , service excellent. I had the fried chicken sandwich, my wife loves the fish & chips. All very good. Love the chaminade.
    More info
    The View Restaurant & BarPrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Santa Cruz
    •
    4.4
  • EugeneVIP
    San Francisco Bay Area •12 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on 25 Feb 2025
    Our table of seven for lunch choose three Asian Chicken salads, which my wife declares the "best" she has had, and she is a San Francisco foodie. Another had the Eggs Benedict which resulted in a clean plate, and I had the Mahi Mahi sandwich which was perfectly cooked on a wonderful roll. Oh and we started with the Fried Calamari that was crispy and tender. (Much better than the calamari we had two days later at a pricy Pebble Beach resort!) IF YOU'RE HEADING UP OR DOWN THE COAST STOP IN CAPITOLA AND FIND ZELDA'S!
    More info
    Zelda's on the BeachPrice: Moderate• Californian• Capitola
    •
    4.5
  • Michele
    San Francisco Bay Area •11 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on 19 Feb 2025
    Brussels are mandatory. Cocktails really good. Remodel beautiful.
    More info
    Venus Spirits Cocktails & Kitchen | BeachsidePrice: Expensive• Californian• Aptos
    •
    4.5

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