The latest eatery in mid-county is a diminutive bistro adjacent to Aptos Creek. Focusing on seasonal fare from local fishermen and produce growers, Persephone – named after the Greek goddess – features house made pastas and other Italian-accented dishes, such as savory garlic-parmesan budino paired with seasonal vegetables; and chilled fennel soup with smoked salmon and dill oil garnish.
New libations have been created by mixologist and bar manager Matt Barron at Soif Wine Bar & Restaurant. Utilizing “leftover” trimmings from ingredients on the menu, he transforms them into garnishes, mixes, and infusions on the reimagined drink menu – resulting in unexpected concoctions.
A new eco-friendly project has debuted at Chaminade Resort and Spa. With a new fully operating solar panel display, the resort’s remodel is expected to offset nearly one third of the property’s annual energy consumption.
The University of California Santa Cruz has unveiled a renovated outdoor venue. Prior to the University’s establishment in 1965, this on-campus working quarry served as a main supplier of limestone to San Francisco post-Gold Rush.
The Beach Street Inn & Suites now offers a sweet spot for visitors across from Main Beach in the heart of Santa Cruz’s beach area. The completion of a new pool, hot tub, and fire pit is part of an overall, eight-year-long renovation of the entire property’s 48 rooms on the two-acre site, which sits in close proximity to the Santa Cruz Wharf, Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, and scenic West Cliff Drive.
Soquel Vineyards was established in 1987 when twin brothers Peter and Paul Bargetto, and their childhood friend Jon Morgan decided to develop their own label and ended up producing some of the best wines in the Santa Cruz Mountains Appellation.
Snap Taco has joined the Downtown Santa Cruz landscape. This new restaurant, launched by the team behind both the Picnic Basket and the Penny Ice Creamery, highlights organic, local foods with vegetarian-inclusive options. The menu also features cocktails, slushies and fresh juices.
A new set of trails at the Glenwood Preserve Open Space in Scotts Valley means the area is one step closer to completion of its long-term plan of complete public access. Located a mere six miles from the beaches of Santa Cruz, this 166-acre preserve consists of grasslands, riparian forests and wetlands. Boasting three miles of walking and biking trails and gentle gradients, this western area of the preserve – accessible through Siltanen Park – is ideal for hiking, running and group fitness activities.
The Hampton Inn and Suites in Santa Cruz has unveiled renovations to its 46-unit atrium-style property, with proximity to US Highway 17 and downtown Santa Cruz.
The Santa Cruz Dream Inn has a new onsite restaurant which is the result of a complete renovation and rebranding effort. The former Aquarius restaurant has reemerged as the Jack O’Neill Restaurant and Lounge.