KID-FRIENDLY EATS IN SANTA CRUZ COUNTY

While Santa Cruz kitchens teem with farm-to-fork goodness, not every kid is keen to gobble purple cauliflower and roasted Brussels sprouts. Thankfully, kid-friendly eats are as plentiful as our surf breaks. From mac & cheese to booster seats, the following spots make family mealtime a breeze with tasty grub and fun treats that kiddos will love.


THE PICNIC BASKET

Plunked across the street from Main Beach, this casual, all-day eatery is packed with goodies. The proud parent owners clearly designed the menu with kiddos in mind. Mornings get the fairytale treatment with The Goldilocks, a bowl of hot cereal swirled with cream and brown sugar-sweetened walnuts. At lunch, kids choose from natural beef hot dogs, gooey mac & cheese, and a “Fancy Pants” grilled cheese on local Companion Bakeshop bread. And since the owners also own The Penny Ice Creamery, you’ll enjoy fresh scoops of seasonal ice cream. Enjoy it all in a cozy interior stylized like a picnic basket, or on the front patio overlooking the bustling, palm tree-lined beach scene.


THE CROW’S NEST

Parents love the beachfront setting and sweeping ocean views, but, for kids, The Crow’s Nest is all about the toy-filled treasure chest. After little ones have polished off plates of fish & chips and Captain Hook’s pasta, they can pick out a prize from the chest. Better yet, each activity book-style kids menu includes a coupon good for one free soft serve at the adjacent Beach Market, perched amidst the magnificent sailboats and peaceful waters of Santa Cruz harbor. Grab a cone, and stroll the shore watching boats and stand-up paddleboarders cruise by.

GAYLE’S BAKERY & ROSTICCERIA

You’re craving Thai while the kids are screaming tenders? Head to Gayle’s where everyone gets what they want. A massive, deli-style glass counter brims with a virtual smorgasbord of daily entrees, sides, and snacks. Kid-options abound with items such as sandwiches—which come in full and half sizes—mac & cheese, and bites such as pickles and deviled eggs. Then, there’s a second countertop filled with every sweet confection and baked good imaginable. Kiddos love the colorful, iced sugar cookies decorated for the latest holiday or season. Eat in a pair of cozy bustling dining rooms, or take it to go to nearby Capitola Beach, a ten-minute stroll away.

SURF CITY SANDWICH

The aloha vibes flow at this bustling surf-themed eatery with specialty hot and cold sandwiches for all—and local craft brews for parents. Kids will be stoked on the Grom’s Menu with Rip Tide Tenders and mini-versions of popular sandwiches including the Little Johnny with smoked turkey and The Piglet with pulled pork and cheddar. Each comes served with crispy, homemade potato chips. Festive interiors are decked with surfboards, vintage surf posters, and a live video feed of nearby Capitola Beach, while live music enlivens the outdoor patio. Bonus: you’ll find a wondrous toy store immediately next door!

For more Santa Cruz County dining options, please visit our website.