Santa Cruz County is home to some of the best cinnamon rolls on the California coast, with bakeries and cafés crafting these sweet treats to perfection. Whether you prefer them sticky and caramelized, loaded with cinnamon, or topped with a rich cream cheese frosting, there’s no shortage of places to satisfy your craving. From cozy local bakeries to well-loved institutions, we’ve rounded up the top spots where you can find the most irresistible cinnamon rolls in Santa Cruz County.
Busy Bees Cafe & Catering
1200 41st Ave, Capitola
Busy Bees Café is a hidden gem in Capitola, serving up some of the most indulgent cinnamon rolls in the county. These cinnamon rolls are warmed to perfection and full of rich flavor. Each roll is generously sized, with a velvety, gooey cinnamon filling and a thick layer of icing that melts into the warm pastry. The texture is pillowy soft, making each bite a sweet, satisfying treat. This hidden gem spot is also one of the best places in town to grab a breakfast burrito. Whether enjoyed fresh on the café’s sunny patio, accompanied by a hot cup of coffee, or taken to the beach for a sweet seaside indulgence, these cinnamon rolls are the highlight of any morning. A visit to Busy Bees Café isn’t complete without one, and once you’ve tried it, you’ll find it hard to resist coming back for more.
Companion Bakeshop
2341 Mission Street, Santa Cruz & 7486 Soquel Drive, Aptos
Companion Bakeshop has earned its reputation for some of the best bread and pastries in town, and their cinnamon rolls are no exception. If you’re a fan of a cinnamon roll with a twist, their version is a must-try. Made with sourdough, these rolls offer a subtle tang that beautifully complements the rich, caramelized cinnamon filling. Not overly sweet, they strike the perfect balance for those who appreciate a more nuanced flavor profile. The dough has exceptional structural integrity, with a slight crunch on the outside that contrasts perfectly with the soft, gooey interior. Topped with just the right amount of frosting, each bite is a delightful experience. Each roll is crafted with locally sourced ingredients and an undeniable commitment to quality. Companion Bakeshop’s cinnamon rolls are a standout choice for anyone seeking a unique yet satisfying treat.
The Buttery
702 Soquel Ave, Santa Cruz
A Santa Cruz institution, The Buttery is known for its delectable pastries, and their cinnamon rolls are a true highlight. These rolls are large, fluffy, and perfectly spiced, with a balanced cinnamon-sugar filling that melts into the soft dough. You can get your cinnamon roll with or without raisins, which sets this spot apart from the other locations. The light icing is perfect for those looking for a treat that isn’t too sweet or rich. The bready texture makes the cinnamon roll feel so soft and pull-apart perfect!
Gayle’s Bakery & Rosticceria
504 Bay Ave, Capitola
Gayle’s Bakery is a local favorite for a reason, and their cinnamon rolls showcase their expertise in crafting irresistible pastries. Their old fashioned cinnamon rolls will transport you to a rich and decadent past that is equal parts nostalgic and delicious. This cinnamon roll is definitely for the sweets lover! The thick, creamy icing is like a dreamy cloud of sweetness. The texture is similar to that of a donut and is incredibly soft! Big enough to share, Gayle’s cinnamon rolls are a real star in their already impressive line up of baked goods.
Seabreeze Cafe
542 Seabright Ave, Santa Cruz
A cozy brunch favorite near the Santa Cruz Harbor, Linda’s Seabreeze Café serves up cinnamon rolls that feel homemade in the best way. These rolls are soft, buttery, and packed with cinnamon goodness. Their cinnamon roll is layered with walnuts and cinnamon sugar without icing, making it perfect for those who want a less sweet option. Many of Seabreeze Cafe’s great breakfast dishes come served with a cinnamon roll or order it al a carte with a coffee for the perfect treat!
This list only scratches the surface of the excellent bakeries in our area making delicious cinnamon rolls and other exquisite pastries. If you’re gluten free, check out Melinda’s Gluten Free Bakery for cinnamon rolls as well!
When food lovers visit Santa Cruz County, it’s hard to choose from the hundreds of fabulous restaurants. One dish the county loves? Clam chowder—evident from the Santa Cruz Clam Chowder Cook-Off at the Boardwalk which draws thousands every February! Many eateries offer this beloved soup on their menus year-round.
We’re highlighting New England chowder. There’s something special about this rich, savory, soup—it can make you feel cozy on a cool day and provides tasty soothing comfort any time of year. Each chef makes it a little differently, so there is bound to be a perfect bowl for everyone. There are versions with bacon and without; some serve it with crackers, others with croutons or grilled bread. If you like eating your chowder out of a bread bowl, you have a few options, on or near the Wharf: Ideal Bar & Grill, Riva Fish House, Stagnaro Bros. Seafood, Firefish Grill, and Woodies Cafe. It’s fitting so many places offer this; the original sourdough bread bowl was made in nearby San Francisco and chowder in bread bowls first became common on Fisherman’s Wharf in SF.
Jack O’Neill Restaurant at Dream Inn
The chowder from Jack O’Neill Restaurant at Dream Inn is so cherished, you can even get it from room service. You don’t have to be a hotel guest to enjoy it—it’s offered daily in the restaurant’s dining room—but if you choose to stay at the hotel you’ll enjoy relaxing in the comfortable rooms, then waking up to sights and sounds of the Pacific Ocean. The soup, served with grilled bread, features ingredients including bacon and shellfish velouté. Address: 175 West Cliff Drive (in the Santa Cruz Dream Inn), Santa Cruz
Pleasure Pizza East Side Eatery
Don’t let the name Pleasure Pizza East Side Eatery fool you into thinking this is only a spot for great pizza. The restaurant boasts fantastic, award-winning chowder. East Side Eatery began competing in the Clam Chowder Cook-Off in 2015. Its chowder, chock full of potatoes and bacon, has been awarded first place several times. Also of note: its chili, a meat version, has earned top honors in the local Chili Cook-Off many times. And the restaurant has a diverse menu with lots of offerings for non-soup-lovers. Address: 800 41st Ave, Santa Cruz
If you visit the Santa Cruz Wharf for chowder, you’ll have opportunities to revel in beautiful vistas from the dining rooms’ windows. If you’re lucky, you will also witness a classic Santa Cruz scene: frolicking sea lions. Here are the Wharf options:
Stagnaro Bros. Seafood
Stagnaro Bros. Seafood, located at the far end of the wharf, has a rich Santa Cruz history. The Stagnaro family, originally from Italy, put down roots in Santa Cruz in the early 20th century and opened a small seafood market and lounge in 1937. Today, Stagnaro Bros. operates a restaurant—where you can enjoy chowder and many seafood delicacies—plus the largest fish market in Northern California which sells fresh fish to cook at home. The takeout counter next to the market has ready-to-eat food including signature chowder sold by the cup, bowl, bread bowl, quart, or gallon! Other counter goodies include fish tacos, crab sandwiches, and deep-fried fish or chicken baskets. Many customers utilize the outdoor seating, which is plentiful. This includes tables and chairs right by the market, and nearby bench options. Address: 59 Municipal Wharf, Santa Cruz
Riva Fish House
The chowder at RivaFish House has vegetables sauteed in white wine, which makes the flavors stand out perfectly. One of Riva’s dishes that pairs well with chowder is Arugula and Spinach Salad with ingredients like pickled red onions, pepitas, white wine-poached pears, and Gorgonzola. Riva is situated about 2/3 of the way down the Wharf. Address: 31 Municipal Wharf, Santa Cruz
Firefish Grill and Woodies Cafe
Firefish Grill and Woodies Cafe: these two neighboring restaurants have the same owner and serve the same delicious bowl of chowder. After you enter the Wharf, they are located about halfway down. The burgers and fish and chips are also popular choices among families who dine at Woodies. A restaurant specialty: seafood cooked with a mesquite charcoal broiler like the signature Firefish Grill selection (includes skewered charbroiled prawns, scallops, and salmon). Both Addresses: 25 Municipal Wharf, Santa Cruz
Now that we’ve visited the Wharf, here are some more chowder options. One is located next to the Wharf, a couple are by the Santa Cruz Harbor, and one pops up in Aptos each week:
Ideal Bar & Grill
With its beachfront setting between the Boardwalk and the Wharf, Ideal Bar & Grill is a great place to enjoy a bread bowl filled with hearty, creamy chowder. Given its location, it makes sense that the restaurant has participated in the chowder cookoff every year since the competition began. Ideal has earned every award at least once, and it is particularly proud of winning People’s Choice in 2023 and 2024. Address: 106 Beach Street, Santa Cruz
Crow’s Nest Restaurant
You can savor the chowder atCrow’s Nest Restaurant in three different spots. The main restaurant offers ocean views either through the windows or directly in front of you if you sit on the patio. The upstairs bar/restaurant has a smaller food menu but a larger drink menu. The third option is getting a takeout version at the restaurant’s Beach Market, which is on the dock near the Crow’s Nest and carries lots of grab-and-go food plus gifts and souvenirs. You can take chowder home or eat it outside, just steps from the Santa Cruz Harbor, and enjoy views of Walton Lighthouse. Address: 2218 East Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz
Johnny’s Harborside
Across the way from Crow’s Nest is Johnny’s Harborside, another popular chowder spot. The restaurant has lots of window seating — about a dozen tables — and many of these overlook the Santa Cruz Harbor. There are rotating fresh catch seafood specials listed on a chalkboard, and you can pick your sides (like Southwest, which is polenta, grilled rustic vegetables, Rojo sauce, and lime crema). Also, the eclectic menu, which includes a burger, fish tacos, and oysters, means your dining companions can each be in the mood for something different. Address: 493 Lake Avenue, Santa Cruz
Bay Living Culinary
Although not a brick-and-mortar spot, you don’t want to miss the chowder from Bay Living Culinary, a vendor at the weekly Saturday Aptos farmers’ market at Cabrillo College. Although chef/owner Jody Lombardo has only been selling at the market since summer 2023, she has been making this creamy soup—filled with scrumptious veggies—for many years. During this time, several restaurants have purchased her chowder for their menus. Lombardo sells her chowder all year long (she also sells delicious rotating items like chicken pot pies and turkey chili). One of her chowder secrets? “The precision and the patience,” says Lombardo. “I strive to have every ingredient in the chowder cut to almost the same size, so that when you enjoy a spoonful, you get everything in every bite.” Address: 6500 Soquel Dr, Aptos
Ready to sip and savor some booze-free libations? Santa Cruz County’s vibrant food and beverage scene has refreshed its drink menus to include a medley of mocktails to indulge and delight in! Whether you’re living the non-alcoholic lifestyle or simply sober-curious, there is a tempting selection of mocktails to be discovered around Santa Cruz that will please any palate, a testament to the county’s dedication to inclusivity as well as to culinary creativity. From downtown’s zero-proof delights to flavorful, fruit-forward refreshers found beachside and more sans-spirit sips around town, each of these local spots offers an experience that’s anything but watered-down!
Front & Cooper
Housed within the lively Abbott Square Market in Downtown Santa Cruz, Front & Cooper is a go-to destination for inventive drinks, including delightful spirit-free selections! Celebrated for its creative approach to mixology, this vivacious bar serves up non-alcoholic concoctions crafted to be as visually stunning as they are delicious. Mainstay mocktails on the menu include the Lost in Paradise, a tropical elixir that mingles together passionfruit, ginger beer, lemon, and salt, and the Me Voy Pa’l Pueblo, a marvelously creamy creation blending pomegranate, coconut, and lime! Other mocktails rotate on the menu seasonally, so be sure to check out what other innovative creations are available. Grab your refreshment of choice & settle into a spot on their spacious outdoor patio, where the community comes together to listen to local music, compete in trivia nights, and enjoy good food and drinks. Whatever you choose to sip on for the evening, Front & Cooper offers a sophisticated and satisfying alternative for those seeking a booze-free experience in a vibrant, social setting! Location: 725 Front Street, Santa Cruz
Roxa Hammock Cafe
Tucked just around the corner from bustling Abbott Square Market is the mesmerizing and otherworldly Roxa Hammock Cafe. The nation’s first hammock cafe, Roxa is an ethereal place to unwind, decompress, and hang around. Pore over the selection in their alchemical elixir bar, where teas and tonics thrive; each signature elixir has been carefully crafted for optimal effect, whether that be to loosen your tongue with their “Truth Serum” or to encourage deep conversation with their “Artistic Vessel.” There are also health tonics aimed at increasing longevity, such as their “Elixir of Immortality” and feeding your gut’s microbiome with a Dandelion Cappuccino. Consult with one of the expert staff members if it’s too difficult to choose and they’ll help guide your alchemical journey! Drink in hand, it’s time to lounge in one of their cozy hammocks, and you’ll feel relaxed and rejuvenated in no time. Everything on Roxa Hammock Cafe’s menu is zero-proof, so it’s truly a sober paradise in the heart of downtown! Location: 110 Cooper Street, Suite 100g, Santa Cruz
Venus Spirits Cocktails & Kitchen
Renowned local distillery Venus Spirits has mastered the art of drink-making, and its no-proof beverages are no exception! At both their Westside and Aptos Beachside locations, there are mocktails to savor while you take in the restaurant’s industrial-meets-coastal-cool vibes. Their classic Rose By Any Other Name is a must-try, which playfully combines butterfly pea flower, elderflower, rosewater, and seltzer, topped with an orange and a dried rose. Another fan favorite is the Suckerpunsch, which is like sunshine in a glass: this alcohol-free creation features a fusion of passionfruit, lemon, orange, cinnamon, and seltzer that will practically whisk you away on a tropical retreat! Thoughtfully designed to deliver the same depth of flavor and refinement as their cocktails, each sip is a testament to the care and creativity Venus Spirits Cocktails & Kitchen puts into each item on its menu. Cheers to that! Locations: Westside – 200 High Road, Santa Cruz; Beachside – 131 Esplanade, Aptos
After Hours
Nestled inside coffee hotspot 11th Hour downtown, After Hours has created a full craft cocktail bar within the expansive, community-driven space. Known for its welcoming atmosphere and inventive drink menu that impresses both the eye and the palate, After Hours is well worth a visit, especially for the non-alcoholic and sober curious crowd. There are several elevated, zero-proof elixirs to try on their rotating menu at any given time. Their must-try classics both feature Wilderton Earthen, a non-alcoholic botanical spirit with spicy notes of white peppercorn, pine-smoked tea, and cardamom. Sip on a Cold Brew Martini, an homage to their coffeehouse location, featuring 11th Hour’s coffee mixed with Wilderton Earthen and Demerara, or delight in a Chai Old-Fashioned, which blends Wilderton Earthen, chai syrup, and demerara, creating a warming and complex flavor profile you have to taste for yourself! They host trivia nights on Thursday, and there are fan-favorite foods available under the same roof, like Chubb’s Chicken and Full Steam Dumpling. After Hours is truly a community-centered setting where everyone can gather, relax, and enjoy expertly crafted drinks, no matter the proof. Location: 1001 Center Street, Suite #1, Santa Cruz
Makai Island Kitchen & Groggery
Located along the picturesque and historic Santa Cruz Wharf, Makai Island Kitchen & Groggery brings the flavors of the tropics to California with their expansive sober selection! Step into this immersive, tiki-style escape and take a seat in the rotating bar or on the string-lit patio, both of which offer spectacular views of the blue waters of the Monterey Bay. Using fresh juices, exotic syrups, and vibrant garnishes, such as pineapple and orchids, each of their mocktails are meticulously prepared to transport your taste buds to a lush paradise! Opt for a classic, fruit-forward refresher, like the POG Spritzer or the Pineapple Surf, or try something different, like the Freaky Tiki, which combines guava and lemon juices with hibiscus-ginger syrup, ginger beer, tiki bitters, and more to please the palate. For something akin to dessert, taste the Mahamellow, a creamy coconut milk beverage infused with lime, vanilla, and cinnamon, all topped with a toasted marshmallow! An oasis on the wharf, Makai’s bar is slinging an assortment of spirit-free sips to enjoy while soaking in the seaside of Santa Cruz. Location: 49A Municipal Wharf, Santa Cruz
Whether you’re fully embracing a non-alcoholic lifestyle, exploring sober-curious options, or simply looking for a fresh and flavorful drink to sip for the evening, Santa Cruz County offers an enticing array of mocktails that cater to every taste! From downtown’s assortment of zero-proof elixirs to the fruit-forward flavors found closer to the beach and other spirit-free options around the county, these local spots guarantee an experience that’s full of flavor and far from ordinary.
Along the stunning shores of Monterey Bay, Capitola is a charming seaside village filled with colorful beachside cottages and a vibrant culinary scene, making it a true foodie destination. Known for its laid-back vibe and breathtaking ocean views, Capitola offers more than just scenic beauty—it’s a haven for lovers of exceptional cuisine. From fresh-off-the-boat seafood to fine dining that will delight your palate, this coastal gem has it all.
Capitola is home to iconic restaurants like Shadowbrook, a beloved establishment serving the community since 1947. Building on the legacy of institutions like this, Capitola is experiencing a new wave of eateries that infuse the quiet seaside village with fresh energy. From exquisite fine dining featuring seasonal, locally sourced ingredients to casual delights like bagels, brunch, and sandwiches, Capitola’s food scene reflects its vibrant and creative spirit. Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite after a stroll along the shore or savoring a memorable evening meal, this guide highlights the must-visit spots making waves in Capitola’s culinary world. Let’s dive into the buzzworthy restaurants that make this village a can’t-miss destination for dining by the sea!
1.) Trestles
Trestles: 316 Capitola Ave, Capitola
Trestles has quickly earned its reputation as one of the most buzzworthy dining experiences in Capitola—and arguably the entire county. This fine dining gem is celebrated for its commitment to seasonal menus that showcase the best of local ingredients, creating dishes that are as artful as they are flavorful. Highlights include their smoked pork belly appetizer, a melt-in-your-mouth dish that balances richness with a perfect hint of smokiness, and their crispy Brussels sprouts, which offer a satisfying crunch and bold flavor. The seasonal fish entrees, crafted with the freshest catches and paired with inventive accompaniments, are a testament to the chef’s creativity and expertise. Trestles also boasts an excellent wine list, carefully curated to complement every dish, ensuring an elevated dining experience. Perfect for a romantic date night, the intimate ambiance pairs seamlessly with the restaurant’s impeccable service and inspired cuisine. With food that reflects real heart and soul, Trestles is a shining star in Capitola’s culinary scene.
2.) Pete’s Capitola
Pete’s: 231 Esplanade #102, Capitola
Pete’s, Capitola’s newest waterfront dining gem, combines breathtaking views with a seafood-focused menu that emphasizes fresh, seasonal, and locally sourced ingredients. Its outdoor patio offers epic views of the iconic Capitola Venetians, making it the perfect spot to enjoy dinner, lunch (Friday – Sunday) or their Pearl Hour offerings as the sun sets over the ocean. This small but thoughtfully curated establishment delivers a memorable experience, whether you’re indulging in oysters paired with bellinis or craft beer during sunset, a weekend lunch, or savoring an elegant fine-dining seafood feast. With its unparalleled setting and dedication to high-quality cuisine, Pete’s is a buzzworthy addition to Capitola’s culinary scene, and the view alone makes it a must-visit destination.
3.) La Marea Café & Pizzeria
La Marea Cafe & Pizzeria: 311 Capitola Ave, Capitola
La Marea Café & Pizzeria may be a tiny spot, but it packs in big flavors and quality offerings that make it a hidden gem in Capitola. This cozy café is known for its Detroit-style pizza, including the standout sausage rosemary pizza, which features a thick, crispy crust and savory toppings. La Marea also shines with its deliciously unique beverages, like the rich, velvety cappuccino and the refreshing blackberry matcha from Syllable Coffee, both perfect for pairing with a bite. For breakfast or lunch, don’t miss their farmers market bagel sandwich, loaded with fresh, seasonal ingredients and served on their signature sourdough bagels. With its unbeatable combination of top-notch coffee, flavorful pizzas, and carefully crafted sandwiches, La Marea is a small spot that delivers a big punch when it comes to quality and deliciousness.
4.) Avenue Cafe
Avenue Cafe: 427 Capitola Ave, Capitola
Avenue Cafe in Capitola is a warm and welcoming gem that’s perfect for anyone craving a delicious breakfast or brunch. With its cozy atmosphere and friendly service, it’s the kind of place where you feel right at home from the moment you walk in. Known for its comforting home-style cooking, Avenue Cafe serves up hearty favorites like the signature “Capitola Chaos” and indulgent eggs Benedict, each portion generously sized to satisfy even the hungriest appetites. The carnitas eggs Benedict is a standout—tender, flavorful carnitas topped with perfectly poached eggs and a rich, velvety hollandaise sauce, making for a delightful twist on a classic. Whether you’re fueling up for a day of adventure or treating yourself to a leisurely brunch, Avenue Cafe offers a delicious, feel-good dining experience that’s sure to leave you craving more.
5.) LG Meats
LG Meats: 200 Monterey Ave, Suite 1, Capitola
LG Meats, a buzzworthy new sandwich spot in Capitola, is quickly becoming a must-try destination for anyone craving mouthwatering smoked meats. Known for bringing their iconic smokehouse flavors from Los Gatos to the beach, LG Meats offers a menu full of standout sandwiches that are as flavorful as they are satisfying. A must-try is the Super Hero BBQ Tri-Tip, a tender, smoky masterpiece that’s packed with bold, savory flavors. Another fan favorite is the Boo’s Brisket Sandwich, featuring perfectly smoked brisket with a rich, savory profile that keeps you coming back for more. And don’t miss the JJ Special Sandwich, loaded with slow-smoked pulled pork that’s incredibly juicy and packed with flavor. Their smoked meats are the star of the show—each bite bursting with deep, rich flavor that showcases their dedication to quality and craftsmanship.
They say the way to a loved one’s heart is through their stomach, and after visiting a few restaurants on this list, you’re sure to see why! From dramatic coastal views to lush hidden havens, we’ve got you covered for wining and dining at some of the most romantic eateries in Santa Cruz County.
Take a romantic ride on the iconic red cable car at Shadowbrook Restaurant
SHADOWBROOK RESTAURANT 1750 Wharf Road, Capitola Since 1947, Shadowbrook Restaurant has been revered for its romance in dining. A night out here always feels special, as you’re whisked away to a luscious paradise via red cable car, which descends a hillside garden of ferns and waterfalls before delivering you to the restaurant’s creekside location. It can be just as pleasing to stroll along the meandering garden path, with a stream that flows into a pond within the restaurant. Inside, you’ll discover unique features such as themed dining areas, aquariums, a massive stone hearth, and towering trees growing up through the ceiling. Pour over the menu as you relish in the whimsical ambiance: the traditional seafood and steakhouse staples are sure to delight, whatever you’re craving! An icon in the community, Shadowbrook is the perfect spot to celebrate anniversaries, birthdays, holidays, and special occasions. Conclude the festivities by hailing a complimentary ride back home with one of Shadowbrook’s vintage taxicabs!
HOME’s adorable string-lit patio is perfect for date night
HOME 3101 N Main Street, Soquel Since its opening in 2016, HOMEhas captured the heart of the community, and for good reason: there is an ever-changing array of delectable dishes coming out of Chef Brad Briske’s kitchen that are sure to leave your mouth watering. While the menu evolves daily based on what is in-season locally, a recurring favorite that is sure to impress is the HOME-made squid ink spaghetti. Whether you’re dining in their wine cellar or under the twinkle lights of their patio, HOME creates a date night atmosphere that feels upscale without all the fuss. It’s this inviting ambience paired with their succulent, dynamic fare that will bring you back to HOME for many date nights to come!
Enjoy La Posta’s Fresh Brick Oven Pizzas
LA POSTA 538 Seabright Avenue, Santa Cruz La Posta has been bringing the soul of Italian cuisine into the Seabright neighborhood since 2006. Farm-fresh and locally sourced ingredients are the foundation of their housemade pasta, pizza and Italian and Mediterranean-influenced dishes. Their rave-worthy menu and extensive wine selection are sure to make any night feel like a special occasion. Order a few items and share with your partner – we highly recommend making one of those sharable items their oven baked pizze! For first timers, you are sure to feel like you’ve stumbled upon a local treasure!
PERSEPHONE 7945 Soquel Drive, Aptos Nestled above Aptos Creek, Persephone’s twinkling lights and cozy space create an atmosphere that is simultaneously energizing and intimate. Snuggle up to your date as you peruse their extensive wine list or ask for a pairing to go with your meal. Persephone’s inventive fine dining menu is stuffed with dishes that seamlessly blend Italian flavors with fresh, high-quality local ingredients. Persephone is the ideal place to linger over a few good glasses of wine as you dazzle your date with a romantic evening out!
Delicious season menu at Avanti on the Westside of Santa Cruz
AVANTI 1917 Mission St, Santa Cruz A cherished local institution, Avanti Restaurant is just the spot for an unforgettable date night! Nestled in Santa Cruz’s vibrant Westside, Avanti welcomes you into an inviting and cozy atmosphere, perfect for a romantic evening out. Their thoughtfully curated wine list and inventive cocktail menu set the stage for a culinary journey that will delight your senses. At the heart of Avanti’s expertly crafted menu is a celebration of locally sourced, seasonal ingredients. Sample one of their Italian classics, or opt for one of the rotating farm-to-table creations! Every bite at Avanti reflects their unwavering commitment to quality, taste, and supporting the local community. With its intimate atmosphere and selection of mouthwatering, seasonal dishes, Avanti has rightfully earned its spot as a beloved destination for an extraordinary night out!
Vim Dining & Desserts located on the Westside of Santa Cruz
VIM DINING + DESSERTS 2238 Mission Street, Santa Cruz A hidden gem on the Westside, Vim Dining & Desserts welcomes you with bright, art-deco-inspired interiors and soft jazz tones that transcend time, while the menu’s ever-changing array of California cuisine keeps things fresh. Share an intimate drink at Vim’s luxurious bar before taking a seat: we recommend the patio, where twinkling lights, luscious greenery, and plenty of heat lamps provide a charming setting to cozy up with your date. The all-organic fare is meticulously curated by Chef Jesikah Stolaroff, and changes seasonally, so there’s always a new temptation to enthrall your taste buds. Trust us and get the dessert: you’ll fall head-over-heels for the Vim Chocolate Cake, which makes for a rich finale. Their sustainable, seasonal ingredients means each trip to Vim will be a new experience, and after trying it, you’ll want to come back for more!
Fresh wood-fired pizzas, house-made pastas and more at Cavalletta in Aptos
CAVALLETTA 9067 Soquel Dr, Aptos Tucked away down a winding side road is the charming Cavalletta, an elevated yet intimate restaurant that dishes up classic Italian fare with a fresh Californian twist! Cozy up to your partner in their welcoming dining area, or gain extra ambiance by sitting on the lush, string-lit patio overlooking Aptos’s picturesque Valencia Creek. Pore over their carefully curated wine list as the tempting aromas of wood-fired pizzas and freshly made pasta fill the air, a preview of the delights to come. With a menu that evolves with each changing season, every visit to Cavalletta feels like a new culinary adventure. However, you can always count on their signature house-made pizza and pasta to deliver mouthwatering perfection – no matter the time of year. Consider sharing a few items to get the full gastronomic experience! With its enchanting, creekside setting, incredible wines, and delectable bites, it’s clear to see why Cavalletta is a go-to spot for a memorable date night!
VINOCRUZ WINEBAR + KITCHEN 4901 Soquel Drive, Soquel Located in Soquel Village, Vinocruz Winebar + Kitchen focuses on the best of the Santa Cruz Mountains. Enjoy over 50 local wines by the glass, craft beer on tap, and yummy cider! Their award-winning cuisine is all made fresh in-house with an emphasis on quality. Savory burgers, cheese & charcuterie plates, bright salads and more are sure to please! Order a few of their fantastic menu items and pair it with your favorite wine for a romantic afternoon or evening.
Lillian’s Italian Kitchen in the Seabright neighborhood
LILLIAN’S ITALIAN KITCHEN 1148 Soquel Avenue, Santa Cruz Pasta is a universal love language, and one that Lillian’s Italian Kitchen takes to heart: the family-owned restaurant dishes up traditional Sicilian recipes that have been passed down through generations. Located in the Seabright neighborhood, Lillian’s lively atmosphere feels welcoming and charming, and Lillian’s true love of Italian cuisine shines through in each bite. Take a peek at their impeccable wine list, where local vintners are featured alongside their Italian peers, and grab an appetizer rarely seen outside of Italy: arancini, deep-fried risotto balls, filled with cheese and served with a side of marinara. Delicious! Peruse the menu of crowd-pleasers, and you’ll quickly understand why this romantic spot keeps people coming back for more!
CAFE BITTERSWEET BISTRO 787 Rio Del Mar Boulevard, Suite C, Aptos Recognized by locals as one of the top restaurants in Aptos and Santa Cruz County for 25 years, Bittersweet Bistro offers an American Bistro Cuisine style dinner menu with Mediterranean influences. Enjoy dinner inside or cozy up on their heated patio. Their award-winning dessert menu features items to share like the Chocolate Trio and Dessert Fantasy, plus favorites including Lemon Napoleon, Bittersweet Chocolate Mousse, Classic Crème Brûlée, cheesecakes, bread puddings, ice creams, and sorbets. Their creative cocktail menu features classics, plus some unique, and even romantic-themed, drinks like First Glance – a perfect cocktail made with Tito’s Handmade Vodka, Aperol, agave syrup, grapefruit & lemon juice topped off with sparkling wine – or Tropical Heat – made with jalapeno infused milagro silver tequila, fresh pineapple, jalapeño, lemon juice & simple syrup. Other flirty cocktail favorites include Your Hibs Do Lie, You’re Berry Naughty, and Pear Pleasure.
The Crow’s Nest is a classic date night – or date day – location
THE CROW’S NEST 2218 E Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz Situated at the entrance to the Santa Cruz Harbor, The Crow’s Nest is a beloved local institution – and for good reason! With sweeping views of the Bay, delicious drinks being served up from the bar, and a menu to drool over, The Crow’s Nest is sure to please. Watch the sailboats drift past as you indulge in a delectable meal with your special someone. Come around sunset to truly feel the romantic ambiance that the Crow’s Nest has to offer, then head upstairs to hear live music and dance the night away!
TRESTLES RESTAURANT 316 Capitola Ave, Capitola Tucked beneath the iconic Capitola Village wooden trestle, discover Chef Nick Sherman’s passion project: Trestles Restaurant. The intimate setting at Trestles creates a romantic atmosphere where you can cozy up with your special someone over a glass of wine while pondering over the mouthwatering menu. The open kitchen provides a peek at the culinary experience to come, and your tastebuds will delight over the local and fresh seasonal fare. Reservations come highly recommended for this desired spot, especially if you’re hoping to warm up to your significant other by the firepit under the twinkle lights on the outdoor patio overlooking Capitola Village. With its intimate atmosphere and culinary charms, Trestles has earned its place as a community favorite for an evening out – romantic or otherwise!
JACK O’NEILL RESTAURANT & LOUNGE 175 W Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz Overlooking the Santa Cruz Wharf and one of the most iconic surfing beaches on the California coast, the Jack O’Neill Restaurant & Lounge adds an air of flirty fun to romantic eateries. The retro-chic dining rooms, named for Santa Cruz wetsuit pioneer Jack O’Neill, offer visitors world-class views of the Monterey Bay underneath stunning light fixtures and a relaxed atmosphere. The menu features delicious California classics with produce sourced in-county. Their fresh caught seafood meets the Monterey Bay Aquarium’s Seafood Watch sustainability standards. Grab a drink at the bar and enjoy intimate seating while the surfers catch the waves out the window.
VENUS SPIRITS COCKTAILS + KITCHEN WESTSIDE 200 High Rd, Santa Cruz Spice up date night at Venus Spirits: first tour their distillery, admiring the stunning, hand-pounded copper stills while learning about the small-batch spirits made inside them, then head next door for a taste of their bold, handcrafted flavors at Venus Spirits Cocktails + Kitchen Westside. Peruse the menu of inventive, handcrafted cocktails as you take in the lively atmosphere of the spacious dining room, which exudes industrial charm. Make it a playful evening with a frisky-fun libation, such as the Frozen Paloma Libre or the gin-infused Laura Palmer. The menu blends southern-style comfort food with a coastal flair that is sure to satisfy any palate. After you’ve had your fill, head down to West Cliff Drive for a romantic sunset stroll overlooking some of Santa Cruz’s most iconic views!
VENUS SPIRITS COCKTAILS & KITCHEN BEACHSIDE 131 Esplanade, Aptos Just steps from the beach, the sound of the waves amplifies the romantic ambiance of Venus Spirits Kitchen & Cocktails Beachside. Settle into a seat on the dreamy outdoor patio, surrounded by tropical plants and under a canopy of string lights, or head inside to the sumptuous, cerulean-toned dining room whose centerpiece is the wall of windows looking out at the sandy shore beyond. It’s particularly spectacular at sunset! Be sure to try the lobster roll – with fresh lobster surrounded by a toasted, buttered brioche, it will leave you wanting more. Pair it with their Frozen Paloma Libre for a true taste escape. With its oceanfront locale, enchanting atmosphere, and mouthwatering menu, VSCK Beachside transforms date night into a tropical vacation for two.
CANTINE WINEPUB 8050 Soquel Drive, suite B, Aptos Looking for a romantic spot to enjoy fine wine, craft beer, and tapas? Cantine Winepub offers an extensive selection of wine and beer sourced from right around the corner, throughout the west, and across the pond. They make wine approachable and fun – not pretentious or complicated. The same goes for their craft beer. Honest food prepared simply and with respect to the ingredients; wine that is nuanced and balanced; beer crafted using hand selected ingredients, specifically picked for distinct flavor characteristics in mind and brewed to be flavorful, quality beer. Cantine is a great spot for a relaxed date night or ramp it up for a fun evening out with friends!
SANDERLING’S RESTAURANT 1 Seascape Resort Drive, Aptos Stunning views of Monterey Bay, the sound of rolling waves, and miles of sandy stretch are the framework for romance at Seascape Beach Resort in Aptos. Their on-site eatery features California coastal cuisines; delightful happy hours inspired by colorful cocktails and live music on the weekends. Sanderlings Restaurant is open daily from 6am to 10pm, so whether you’re just starting a romantic day or coupling up for diner, a spectacular view awaits!
GABRIELLA CAFE 910 Cedar Street, Santa Cruz Housed in a romantic 1920s building on a quiet side street in Downtown Santa Cruz, this impossibly charming café has grown a devoted following with its farm-to-table dishes and intimate dining room that feels plucked from the French countryside. Owner Paul Cocking spent many years as part of the downtown farmers market, and today his restaurant sources nearly all of its produce from local, organic farmers.
SÜDA 3910 Portola Dr, Santa Cruz For a spectacular date night, pair dinner at Süda with a romantic stroll along picturesque East Cliff Drive as the sun sets over Monterey Bay. The scenery continues inside: this Pleasure Point hidden gem is captivating from top to bottom. Dim light emanates from geodesic fixtures, giving the industrial-yet-intimate dining room an effortlessly cool vibe. The fresh, local, seasonally-driven California cuisine fills the crowd-pleasing menu. Heat up the night with the Firecracker, a spicy-yet-fruity, spirit-forward craft cocktail! Don’t miss the chance to try one of their seasonal sips, a masterfully crafted list of cocktails that changes regularly to highlight the freshest ingredients. Linger over the evening, cozying up to your partner near Süda’s fire pits, indulging in a nightcap and a sweet treat!
LAGO DI COMO 21490 E Cliff Dr, Santa Cruz The enticing Lago di Como will whisk your tastebuds away on an Italian vacation! Named after his childhood home on the shores of Italy’s Lake Como, Chef Giovanni Spanu has created a menu that infuses authentic Italian culture and cuisine with the fresh, high-quality ingredients that Santa Cruz County has to offer. Luxuriate over the extensive wine list, and delight in a homemade pasta classic like Spaghetti alla Carbonara, authentically prepared with guanciale (Italian-cured pork cheek), egg yolk, and pecorino romano, or go for something fresh from Monterey Bay, like Le Cozze (mussels) served with spicy calabrese salami in a garlic and white wine reduction over maltagliati pasta. Linger over the dolci – that’s dessert – for a truly indulgent and romantic evening out!
CAFE CRUZ 2621 41st Avenue, Soquel This hidden gem is an oasis of great food and ambiance off bustling 41st Avenue in Soquel. Hidden behind towering green shrubbery, a quiet garden courtyard is set with tables warmed by an outdoor hearth. Inside, the intimate, low-ceiling dining room with open kitchen is a local favorite for date nights and special occasions. Since opening in 1995, the family-owned restaurant has become known for its warm, rustic fare including a signature garlic herb rotisserie chicken, grilled steak salad, seafood specials, and delicious wines and cocktails by the fire.
AROMA RESTAURANT 9600 CA-9, Ben Lomond Tucked amidst the towering redwoods of the Santa Cruz Mountains, Aroma Restaurant showcases a vivacious collection of recipes from all over the globe in a cozy setting. Inside, a crackling fireplace creates a warm and inviting atmosphere that lend well to a date night out. For a romantic evening alfresco, relax on the inviting patio situated beneath the redwood canopy, exploring the innovative continental-meets-Californian menu that utilizes fresh, local ingredients. The scenic setting and delectable dishes make Aroma an ideal spot for those seeking a romantic and gastronomic adventure!
LAILI RESTAURANT 101 B Cooper Street, Santa Cruz For centuries, the Silk Road has acted as a conduit of innovations, cultures, and exotic foods throughout all of its varying regions. Laili Restaurant offers a fine dining experience in the heart of Downtown Santa Cruz, providing the rich flavors of the Mediterranean, infused with a unique Afghan twist. The string lit, lush garden patio creates a romantic ambience that is sure to become a date night favorite!
Take the romance from the redwoods to sea with a picnic on the beach, overlooking West Cliff Drive or in the Santa Cruz Mountains. Check out where to find the best takeout in Santa Cruz County on our Tasty Takeout blog!
Santa Cruz County is home to some of the most vibrant community spaces, where food, drink, and connection come together. In this first installment of our The Hub series, we’re shining a spotlight on After Hours, a one-of-a-kind gathering place located at 1001 Center Street, #1, in Downtown Santa Cruz. With four standout local businesses sharing one roof, this spot offers something for everyone, from mouthwatering meals to creative cocktails (and mocktails), lively events, and a true sense of community. Each of the local businesses, After Hours Cocktail Bar, Chubbs Chicken Sandwiches, Full Steam Dumpling, and 11th Hour Coffee offers something unique to visitors from carefully crafted seasonal cocktails to the best ramen in town! While you may come to this community hub for the food and drinks, you’ll stay for the welcoming atmosphere and the deep sense of connection that makes this gathering of eclectic businesses feel like a family gathering.
After Hours Cocktail Bar
Welcome to After Hours — where the motto is simple: Come for the cocktails, stay for the good time. After Hours isn’t just a bar; it’s a place to relax, laugh, and connect. With its welcoming, inclusive atmosphere, this cocktail bar has become a go-to destination for locals seeking great drinks and even better company. The seasonally rotating menu of craft cocktails and a tap full of local wine and beers ensures there is something for everyone at this wonderful bar. The recently launched seasonal drink menu that features fresh baked pastry bites and treats as garnishes for the drinks from 11th Hour Coffee’s in-house bakery team, is one of the best cocktail line-ups in town! Whether you’re grabbing a quiet drink after work, socializing with friends on the weekend, or attending one of their lively events, like trivia nights or comedy shows, there’s always something happening at After Hours. From expertly crafted cocktails to an inviting vibe, it’s the kind of place where you can settle in and feel at home. Hours: Tuesday – Saturday, 5:00pm – 9:00pm
Full Steam Dumpling
If you’re in the mood for dumplings, Full Steam Dumpling brings a Szechuan-inspired menu that’s sure to satisfy. Serving up handmade dumplings, ramen, and a delicious assortment of rotating dishes, Full Steam always provides something delicious. They specialize in a variety of handmade dumplings, such as chicken and leek gyoza, BBQ pork-stuffed char siu bao, and unique options like crystal dumplings with house-made fillings. Their ramen, including tonkatsu and spicy miso, is another major highlight. Vegetarian and vegan options, including plant-based ramen bowls and dumplings, ensure that everyone can enjoy the menu. Each exceptional dish emphasizes fresh, seasonal ingredients and house-made components like broths and dipping sauces. From inventive favorites like the Brisket Chow Fun to the seasonal ramen flavors, everything on the menu is a must-try! Full Steam Dumpling is the perfect place to stop by for a flavorful meal before you enjoy a drink or stay for the evening’s event. The blend of bold flavors and comforting dishes makes Full Steam a must-try at After Hours. Hours: Wednesday – Saturday, 5:00pm – 9:00pm
Chubbs Chicken Sandwiches
For a flavor-packed and satisfying meal, Chubbs Chicken Sandwiches delivers indulgent fried chicken sandwiches with options for everyone. Whether you’re craving classic crispy fried chicken, gluten-free alternatives, or vegan offerings, Chubbs has it all. Their signature Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich, topped with coleslaw and customizable with spicy sauces like habanero-ghost pepper mayo or sriracha mayo, is a must-order for heat lovers. For a plant-based twist, the fried oyster mushroom sandwich rivals its meat-based counterparts. Chubbs offers many options to help meet any dietary restrictions with a dedicated gluten-free fryer and delicious gluten-free buns that resemble fluffy biscuits. Pair your sandwich with comfort food sides like creamy mac and cheese. Located at a walk-up window near 11th Hour Coffee’s outdoor patio, Chubbs is perfect for satisfying late-night cravings. Just place your order, relax inside, and let the crispy, flavorful goodness come to you. Hours: Tuesday – Saturday, 5:00pm – 9:00pm
11th Hour Coffee
Whether you’re starting your day or need an afternoon pick-me-up, 11th Hour Coffee has you covered. This local gem has been roasting and serving up exceptional coffee since 2017, and their offerings—ranging from lattes and matcha to chai—are always crafted to perfection. Plus, with freshly baked bites and goodies made in-house, you’ll find everything you need for a satisfying morning or mid-day break. 11th Hour delights with specialty beverages like the warming golden milk chai, made with turmeric and spices, and their earthy, energizing matcha offerings. Their latte menu is equally enticing, featuring indulgent seasonal creations or local favorites like the honey bee latte or the decadent salted caramel latte. Each drink is thoughtfully crafted with high-quality ingredients, reflecting the cafe’s dedication to flavor and sustainability. Paired with house-made baked goods and set against a backdrop of lush greenery and reclaimed wood, 11th Hour Coffee offers an inviting escape for coffee enthusiasts and casual sippers alike. 11th Hour is a key part of the After Hours experience, giving visitors a reason to start their day or stop by throughout the afternoon. Hours: Every day from 7am to 7:30pm
A Community Experience
What makes After Hours truly special is the way these businesses come together to create a genuine sense of community. It’s a space where you can grab a cup of coffee, enjoy a hearty chicken sandwich, indulge in dumplings, sip on a cocktail, and join in on a fun event—all under one roof. The atmosphere is warm, inviting, and full of energy, making it the perfect place to unwind, socialize, and enjoy great food and drinks with friends.
Stay tuned for the next post in our The Hub series, where we’ll highlight another local gem in Santa Cruz County. For now, head to After Hours and experience everything this vibrant community hub has to offer. You won’t want to miss it!
Ring in 2025 in Santa Cruz County! Check below for some fun New Year’s Eve celebrations plus, First Day Hikes on January 1st!
CHILDRENS MUSEUM OF DISCOVERY: NOON YEARS EVE December 31, 2024 @ 10:30am – 1pm Ring in the “Noon” Year at the Santa Cruz Children’s Museum of Discovery with a celebration bursting with fun for the whole family! Enjoy a dazzling countdown to noon featuring a non-alcoholic bubble bar with sparkling mocktails, hands-on crafts to create party crowns and confetti launchers, an exciting kids’ glow rave room filled with party lights and fun beats. The grand finale? A spectacular confetti explosion and ball drop at the stroke of noon! It’s the perfect way to end the year with laughter, joy, and magical memories your family will cherish.
BLUE LAGOON: NEW YEARS EVE DANCE PARTY December 31, 2024 @ 4pm – 2am By day, the Blue Lagoon is a bar, but at night it will transform into the annual New Year’s Eve party with two dance floors, multiple DJs, no cover and a free champagne toast at midnight! Make sure to get there early, as they usually pack out to capacity!
HOOK AND LINE: NEW YEAR’S EVE DINNER December 31, 2024 @ 5pm – 9pm Hook + Line has an exclusive New Year’s Eve menu crafted to make your evening unforgettable! Make your reservations through Resy to secure this exclusive dining experience.
PERSEPHONE: NYE DINNER December 31, 2024 @ 5pm – 10pm Ring in the New Year with a delicious celebration at Persephone Restaurant. Chef Cori has crafted a magnificent menu that will delight your taste buds and set the perfect tone for a memorable evening. Special Champagne selections will also be available for purchase.
DOWNTOWN PONO HAWAIIAN GRILL: KARAOKE NIGHT December 31, 2024 @ 6pm – 9pm Gather your friends, pick your favorite songs, and sing your heart out as you welcome 2025! Large groups are welcome – bring the whole crew for an unforgettable evening. Enjoy delicious drinks, good vibes, and the aloha spirt. Don’t miss this chance to celebrate in true island style!
IBIZA: NYE PAELLA DINNER December 31, 2024 @ 6:30 – 8:15pm Get your reservation in for a special paella party at Ibiza. Grab your family and friends and enjoy enormouspaellas featuring chicken, chanterelle mushrooms and farmers market vegetables. Don’t forget the Churros!
VINO BY THE SEA: ROARING 20’S NYE PARTY December 31, 2024 @ 6pm – 1am Vino by the Sea, upstairs at the Santa Cruz Wharf, is having a Roaring Twenties New Years Eve party! There will be a two drink minimum, but why not go for dinner tickets? Dinner starts at 6pm. Collision Course, a classic rock band, will start playing at 7pm and will keep the party going until 1am. There will be a ball drop, toast and countdown for 2025!
THE CATALYST: WORLD ELECTRONIC NYE PARTY December 31, 2024 – Doors Open at 8pm; Show is at 9pm Ring in the new year with Beats Antique, a world fusion and electronic music group that combines music, performance art, and storytelling into a stage show! There will be a special guest appearance from Yaima, a Cascadian Folktronic Duo that will blend some new age mysticism into your new year! Ages 16 and up welcome.
INN AT PASATIEMPO: ROARING 20’S THEME NYE PARTY WITH THE LOST BOYS FEATURING JAMES DURBIN December 31, 2024 @ 8pm – 12:30am The Lost Boys featuring James Durbin will be hosting another New Years Eve celebration. This years theme is “A Night At The Speakeasy”. Dress to the nines in your best roaring 20’s attire, if you choose. Enjoy an evening of music, hors d’oeuvres, and a no host bar.
BRUNO’S BAR AND GRILL: NYE BLACK AND WHITE BALL December 31, 2024 @8pm – 12am You don’t have to break the bank to have fun this year! For just $25, Bruno’s will have party crowns & hats, noise makers, 2 full bars open, late-night appetizers available to purchase and best of all, a live performance by the absolute best 90’s cover band – Fire Peach! You’ll be dancing all night to the greatest grunge, alt-rock, and 90’s pop-punk songs. Go early and eat dinner upstairs in “The Jim” or downstairs in the dining room, and they will have a prime selection of delicious American-style food waiting for you.
SEVY’S BAR + KITCHEN: NEW YEARS EVE BASH December 31, 2024 @ 8pm – 12:30am Head to Sevy’s for a night of fun and good times! They will have food & drink specials all night with special menus, including a reverse Happy Hour from 8pm until 10pm, and live music from the Joint Chiefs from 8pm-12:30am! Book a reservation at Open Table or take a chance with the first-come, first-serve bar seating.
THE 418 PROJECT: GRATITUDE NYE PARTY December 31. 2024 @ 8pm – 2am Head to the 418 as they create the warmest New Year: dance the night away to Sitar Power and MaMuse, add your memories and dreams to the constellation sculpture, grab a Chai or a cocktail at the bars, enjoy an open mic with live music, and thrill to midnight aerial dance and spoken word as you welcome in 2025. Splash out and get a VIP table or grab a general admission ticket.
DOWNTOWN SANTA CRUZ: GRATEFUL DEAD NYE CELEBRATION December 31, 2024 @ 9pm – 12:30am The China Cats are a Grateful Dead tribute band based in Santa Cruz and are known for their creative jams and ability to capture the spirit of the Dead’s live shows. Liquid Light Productions will be adding a light show, and there will be a balloon drop from the rafters of the gorgeously restored 1930’s era Chris Matthews Ballroom. Dress to the nines! There will be champagne at the Shakedown Street vendor market, and a fully decked out evening of dancing and merrymaking.
JOE’S BAR: NEW YEARS EVE PARTY December 31, 2024 @ 9:30pm – 12:30am Rock and Alt-Rock Dance all night long with power trio of Ted Welty (aka T. Rollin), Daniel Lewis, and Rop Ouse! They will be covering ZZ Top, Cream, Pearl Jam, Robin Trower, Stone Temple Pilots, Rolling Stones, Black Crowes, Led Zeppelin, originals and much more. If you haven’t been to Joe’s, you haven’t been to Boulder Creek!
THE CROW’S NEST: FISHOOK NYE PARTY December 31, 2024 @ 9pm – 12:30pm Fishhook is the band that does not let up on the gas! You will hear all your favorite songs “leveled up” the FISHHOOK way! Go experience some of the best Rock and Roll in town and bring friends for a party! There will be party favors and champagne toast!
MOE’S ALLEY: SPACE DISCO NYE PARTY December 31, 2024 @ 9pm – 12:30pm Ring in the new year at Moe’s Ally with intergalactic funksters Space Heater plus DJ traveler! There will be a countdown with a champagne toast, photo booth and more! Get your funky disco threads on and party! 21+ only.
CHAMINADE RESORT & SPA: NEW YEAR’S LATE NIGHT BASH December 31, 2024 @ 9pm – 1am Head to The View, a Treeside Restaurant to dance the night away to live music by Vintage Point at Chaminade’s 21+ New Year’s Party. Spend your evening ringing in 2025 while enjoying a champagne toast, assorted light bite desserts and a cash bar. Reserve dinner early for a memorable New Year’s Eve Dinner dining experience overlooking Santa Cruz and Monterey Bay.
CATALYST: NYE CELEBRATION December 31, 2024 @ 9pm – 1am Ring in the new year with Beats Antique, a world fusion and electronic music group that combines music, performance art, and storytelling into a stage show! There will be a special guest appearance from Yaima, a Cascadian Folktronic Duo that will blend some new age mysticism into your new year! Ages 16 and up welcome.
SANTA CRUZ CIVIC CENTER: NYE GALACTIC BALL December 31, 2024 @ 9pm – 1am Get ready to ring in the New Year like never before! Head to the Civic Center for an unforgettable night filled with magic, music and starlit celebrations! Dance to the stars, enjoy out of this world drinks, and blast off into the year 2025!
LUPULO CRAFT BEER HOUSE: NYE GATHERING AND DANCE PARTY December 31, 2024 @ 9pm – 1am Ring in the new year with friends old and new at Lúpulo! Circle around a table and reminisce about the highlights of 2024, play a game, or put on your dancing shoes and boogie to the tunes of DJ Real Abstraction! Come as you are or get decked out in tails and sequins. NYE at Lúpulo is always a funky heart-warming good time! The event is free and is welcoming to all adults over 21.
ROSIE MCCANN’S: NYE 2025 CELEBRATION December, 31, 2024 @ 9pm – 1am Ring in the New Year with a bang at Rosie McCann’s! Dance the night away to DJ Miguel, enjoy delicious drinks, and savor festive appetizers. Celebrate with friends and loved ones as you count down to midnight with a champagne toast, balloon drop, and a sprinkle of Irish magic. – the perfect place to say goodbye to the old and hello to the new!
CHAMINADE RESORT & SPA: PJ BRUNCH January 1, 2025 @ 7am – 1pm Start the New Year off right with some mimosas, cider, hot cocoa, live jazz and an a la carte brunch. And all with 15% off if you show up in your pajamas!
FIRST DAY HIKES January 1, 2025 (various times) Kick off the new year with a First Day Hike at one of Santa Cruz County’s state parks! Hikes range in location, geography, and difficulty. Find first day hikes at Big Basin Redwoods State Park, Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, Castle Rock State Park, and Wilder Ranch State Park. Check the California State Parks website for more on reservations, times, trail and habitat information, and more.
THE FOREST OF NISENE MARKS STATE PARK: 1ST DAY HISTORY WALK January 1, 2025 @ 9am – 1pm Enjoy a four mile, four hour walk at George’s Picnic Area and take Loma Prieta Grade Trail to the Porter House site to the site where the town of Loma Prieta was located and the hidden spot deep in the redwood forest where marine fossils can be found. Participants will encounter the remains of the old lumber mill, follow the trail of the ghost trestles and learn about the wonders of the giant redwoods and their survival. Meet at Georges Picnic Area near the Winter Gate.
WILDER RANCH STATE PARK: 1ST DAY BACKCOUNTRY HIKE January 1, 2025 @ 11am – 2pm On this 2.5 mile family friendly walk, we’ll explore the plants, animals, and geology of the coastal bluffs. Meet next to park map in Wilder Ranch main parking lot. Rain cancels. 2.5 mile loop trail is easy, with no elevation. Meet by large map sign in Wilder Ranch parking lot for the Old Cove Landing Trail. Meet by large map sign in Wilder Ranch parking lot for the Old Cove Landing Trail. Vehicle day-use fee is $10.
BIG BASIN REDWOODS STATE PARK: 1ST DAY HIKE OCEAN VIEW SUMMIT January 1, 2025 @ 11am – 2pm Join a State Park docent and plant enthusiast for a first day hike at Big Basin starting at 11 a.m. from the Visitor Center. This hike will be a little over four miles in length with a steady climb up to the Ocean View Summit. Please allow at least 3 hours for this outing. Bring plenty of water, snacks and layers. Binoculars are optional!
SHADOWBROOK: NEW YEARS DAY FEAST January 1, 2025 @ 2pm – 10:30pm Make reservations for a New Year’s Day Feast at Shadowbrook. Enjoy delicious food, beautiful views and transportation that makes travel part of the experience! Dress up nicely and enjoy a free shuttle service in a vintage taxi if you are staying within a 3-mile radius of Shadowbrook. Or you can park and take the trolley through the gardens to the entrance. Of course, there is nothing stopping you from meandering through the gardens on foot! Either way, mark your calendars for the end of the year to secure your New Years adventure as soon as possible!
Santa Cruz County is a great place to be if you’re a craft beer lover. At one point it seemed that every time you blinked a new brewery opened! There are wonderful venues in many geographic areas, from Westside Santa Cruz to Corralitos. A bonus: each is run by local individuals who are passionate about brewing delicious, unique beer. Ready for a cold one? Start your local beer tour with some of the area’s finest:
Balefire Brewing
One of the popular beers at Balefire Brewing Co. is Leeloo, an American-style IPA. Other beer on tap includes English-style ales. Co-owners, and husbands/wives Matt and Leslie Buchanan and Nate and Stephanie Murphy, founded the brewery in 2023. Leslie and Nate serve as brewmasters, while Matt and Stephanie fulfill various roles, from behind the scenes to tending bar. The brewery is located at the East Cliff Shopping Center. As stated on the website, “Historically, a ‘balefire’ signified a gathering place for the community.” In keeping with this namesake, Balefire has plenty of comfortable seating—both indoors and out—and encourages people to bring their own food when they visit and stay for a good while. There are also rotating food trucks in front of Balefire, and the brewery sells light snacks.
Location: 21517 E Cliff Dr, Santa Cruz
Beer Thirty Bottle Shop & Pour House and Beer Mule Bottle Shop & Pour House
Beer Thirty Bottle Shop & Pour House has been serving craft beer fans in Soquel since 2014. They have 30 rotating taps, like popular Maui Waui from Altamont Beer Works, and more than 300 takeout bottle and can selections. On weekends, neighboring Carpo’s Restaurant has an order window in the dog-friendly beer garden; customers can order from the menu to accompany their beer. You can also buy food from nearby Buzzo Pizza and Sunnyside Produce to eat in the garden or bring food from home or from other businesses.
The team at Beer Thirty is also responsible for Watsonville’s Beer Mule Bottle Shop & Pour House, located at The Hangar since 2019. Beer Mule has 40 rotating draft options including non-beer choices like Living Swell Kombucha, and Verve Cold Brew Coffee with or without Stout. One top-selling beer is tropical West Coast IPA, Mai Tai by Salinas’ Alvarado Street Brewery. Beer Mule has lots of packaged beer and wine available in its cold case, and food business Guz Bros serves selections including tacos, sandwiches and fries out of the venue’s kitchen.
Location: Beer Thirty, 2504 S. Main St., Soquel, Beer Mule, 45 Aviation Way, Watsonville
Corralitos Brewing Co.
The South County brewery, located in the Pacific Firewood & Lumber building (a former apple packing shed), specializes in IPA, seasonals and sours. Selections include Corralitos Blonde Ale, Hop Kiss IPA, Richter Red (the house Amber), and Passion Fruit Seltzer. They have a dozen rotating taps, and food trucks frequently appear at their venue. Brewers Luke Taylor and Mike Smith opened the brewery in 2015.
Location: 2536 Freedom Blvd., Watsonville
Discretion Brewing
Soquel’s Discretion Brewing fits well with our progressive county due to a number of reasons. Among them: In fall 2024, it released ParticIPAte West Coast IPA as an “election-season special.” The QR code on the can takes people to the official voter registration website, encouraging customers to participate in the democratic process. Also, their self-proclaimed values are “wisdom, wit, and kindness” and they are the county’s first solar-powered and green-certified brewery. They also designed their brew system with water conservation in mind. And they have brewed quite a few beers in support of a particular organization. The Woodland Critters series of bottled, barrel-aged beer benefits the Santa Cruz County Land Trust. Discretion brews with ingredients that support sustainable farming and gives spent grain to local pigs to reduce waste. Their brewery features an organic beer garden where customers can enjoy food produced in an on-site restaurant, Sugo at Discretion. Menu items including Italian sandwiches and flatbreads are designed to pair with Discretion’s beers.
Location: 2703 41st Ave., Soquel
Fruition Brewing
Fruition Brewing, with a brewery and tasting room in the East Lake Village shopping center, features a wide range of beer styles including lagers, IPAs, sours, and barrel aged beers. Head brewer David Purgason is co-owner with his partner, Tallula Preston. They are both proud of brewing with many local and organic ingredients. “Our kitchen has a similar organic and local focus,” says Purgason. The menu rotates with the seasons and includes snacks, salads, soups, oysters, and gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches. Food can be enjoyed indoors or on a pet-friendly patio, paired with beer, or with local cider or local Birichino wine. Throughout the year, Fruition offers events including First Friday art shows and trivia nights.
Location: 918 E. Lake Ave., Watsonville
Humble Sea Brewing Co.
Humble Sea Brewing Co. first opened in 2017. Within one year, they were named the third fastest growing brewery in California. By 2019, Hop Culture Magazine named them one of the top 10 U.S. breweries. In 2023, Humble Sea opened a Santa Cruz Wharf location: a beer garden that is open seasonally and closes for the winter months. The original Swift Street brewery offers 16 taps of rotating beer selections brewed in-house, with a heavy focus on foggy IPAs (foggy is the brewery’s term for hazy) but also including lagers, stouts, saisons, sours, blondes, and West coast IPA styles. Socks & Sandals is one of its popular and whimsically titled foggy IPAs. With a dog-friendly beer garden, the brewery features rotating local food trucks and locally made empanadas by Fonda Felix every day. Co-founder and creative director Frank Scott Krueger says he and the other co-founders (Nick Pavlina-head of brewing operations, and Taylor West-head of operations) design half of the beers with the idea of getting fans excited about new releases. They have utilized concepts like smoothie beers. The other half, designed with old world brewing traditions in mind, include six-week slow beers: decoction mashed German lagers, naturally carbonated, horizontally lagered, and poured out of a traditional side pull beer faucet. The brewery also runs The Tavern, located at the Cremer House in Felton. This restaurant collaboration with Emerald Mallard features a continuously rotating food menu prepared by chef Lance Ebert and beer and cocktails from Humble Sea.
Location: Main location: 820 Swift St., Santa Cruz, Wharf location: 45 Municipal Wharf, Santa Cruz, The Tavern: 6256 CA-9, Felton
Lúpulo Craft Beer House
The word Lupulo means ‘hops’ in Spanish. To further pay homage to their roots in Spain and Mexico, co-owners Noëlle Antolin and Stuyvie Bearns Esteva created a menu with these influences. The nearby downtown Santa Cruz farmers market enables them to use fresh, seasonal ingredients for selections including tapas, hearty tortas, and salads. Lúpulo invites customers to “come for the beer and stay for the food.” The venue’s rotating draft beers includes selections from across the world, and Lúpulo has an extensive bottled beer selection including non-alcoholic and gluten-free options. Also, there are carefully curated choices for those interested in cider and wine. Lúpulo, which has been open since 2014, has a parklet out front for additional seating.
Location: 233 Cathcart St., Santa Cruz
Sante Adairius Rustic Ales
Like its namesake promises, the brewery produces rustic-style ales—many with Belgian influences. Co-owner Adair Paterno’s favorite style of beer to drink is Saison. She and husband Tim Clifford started SARA (as it’s affectionately known) with a Capitola location in 2012, and later opened a second tasting room in Santa Cruz. Both locations have dog-friendly patios. The brewery has created selections such as Capitola Sunset (a Rustic Industrial Park Saison in celebration of ‘insanely mesmerizing pink, orange, and azure Capitola sunsets’) and Capitola Bright (described as a Coastal-style Light Beer). The Santa Cruz location has in-house food available daily via Bookie’s Pizza, featuring square Detroit-style pizza with gourmet toppings. Past combinations have included chanterelle/corn/roasted cherry tomato sauce, Fogline Farm chicken with BBQ sauce and smoked mozzarella, and a white sauce variation with nettles and Maitake mushrooms. The Capitola location sometimes has rotating food vendors on the weekends.
Location: 103 Kennedy Dr., Capitola and 1315 Water St., Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz Mountain Brewing
Santa Cruz Mountain Brewing opened at Swift St. Courtyard in 2005. Owners Adair Paterno (of Sante Adairius Rustic Ales) and Brad Clark (Private Press Brewing) took over in 2024; Paterno is a longtime friend of original co-owner Emily Thomas. Clark launched club-based Private Press, which specializes in barrel-aged Imperial Stouts and Barleywines, in 2019. The taproom features several rotating taps, with a solid variety including bestselling Pacific IPA, Unicorn Tears hazy IPA, and Coaster Kolsch. Traditionally, around 12 feature SCMB beers, with 1 tap reserved for Private Press and a couple for Sante Adairius. Customers can bring their dogs to SCMB’s large beer garden and enjoy a food menu including pretzels with beer cheese spread and ale mustard, a customer favorite. Other items include sandwiches with bread from Kelly’s French Bakery and meat from artisan butcher and neighbor El Salchichero.
Location: 402 Ingalls St. Suite 27, Santa Cruz
Seabright Social
Brewpub Seabright Social, located in its namesake Seabright neighborhood near the ocean, has lots of seating including a spacious dog-friendly patio that features cozy fire pits. Beers on tap rotate and include local breweries like Sante Adairius, Other Brother, and Narrative Fermentation, in addition to its own flagship Pelican Pale and Blur IPA. Other drinks include Santa Cruz Cider, wine on tap (like Birichino and Alfaro), cocktails, and Kombucha. The most popular dishes are street tacos, a signature Smash burger, and fish and chips. All three owners have lots of experience in the food and drink industry: Jason and Keiki McKay also own Aptos-based Cantine Winepub. Jon Bates’ career includes decades of restaurant and retail experience including selling wine for more than 12 years.
Location: 519 Seabright Ave., Santa Cruz
Shanty Shack Brewing
Rotating beers on tap at Shanty Shack include IPAs, barrel-aged and fruited kettle sours, pilsners, stouts, and Belgian styles. Popular beers include Train Wreck (Double IPA), Harvey (flagship West Coast IPA), and Razzmanian Devil (Kettle Sour with raspberries). Co-owners Brandon Padilla and Nathan Van Zandt, who founded Shanty Shack in 2016, first met as fellow home brewing enthusiasts. They are both music lovers and the brewery regularly hosts live music. Some customers plan shopping trips to nearby Costco with outings to Shanty Shack before or after. Rotating food trucks appear at the brewery several days a week. Shanty Shack features an outdoor dog-friendly area.
Location: 138 Fern St., Santa Cruz
Steel Bonnet Brewing Company
Scotland natives Donald and Sue Cramb own and run Steel Bonnet, which was Scotts Valley’s first brewery when it opened in 2015. The Crambs strive for their brewery and tap room to provide the same sense of warmth, family and community as the local pubs they experienced growing up in Scotland. The beers they serve are primarily American and British Ales. Work Street Pilsner and Big Trees Red Ale are very popular, along with flagships Hop the Heck IPA (the first IPA they ever brewed) and English Rose Pale Ale (one of Steel Bonnet’s first recipes, and one the five beers on tap on opening day). “Big Trees is our take on a classic beer that was a staple at Boulder Creek Brewery,” says Donald. (Note: BC Brewery closed in 2015). Steel Bonnet has a continuous rotation of local food trucks selling food like fish and chips outside the taproom.
Location: 20 Victor Square, Scotts Valley
Woodhouse Blending & Brewing
Photo and header photo by Monica Multer
Woodhouse, which opened in 2020, consists of a production brewery, kitchen, and tasting room located off River Street between downtown and Highway One. The small batch beers on tap rotate and include IPAs, lagers, Saisons, and kettle sours. The Egyptian Cotton Hazy IPA is a top seller. The brewery’s experimental sours, including a sour made with ube, are very popular. Other drinks include cider and wine on tap and Living Swell non-alcoholic Kombucha. Customers can taste beer while enjoying entertainment such as live music including alt-country, Brazilian, and funk; DJ sets; and more. Offerings at the venue include a large outside patio with picnic tables, and food for sale through occasional popups by local vendors. There are several owners at Woodhouse; two of them, Will Moxham and head brewer Mike Rodriguez, have known each other since middle school and are happy that Woodhouse has become a beloved community gathering place.
Autumn is here and as the air turns crisp, there’s no better way to embrace the season than with a glass of hard cider. Santa Cruz County, known for its coastal charm, also has a rich history of apple cultivation. The Santa Cruz and Pajaro Valley area has been home to world-renowned cider for over a century. Back in 1868, Stephen G. Martinelli founded S. Martinelli & Company, producing bottle-fermented Champagne Cider from apples grown in California’s first commercial orchards. Martinelli’s quickly gained a reputation for being the finest cider available and that legacy persists today. While strawberries, raspberries, and blackberries have replaced many of the old orchards, the Pajaro Valley still produces Pippin, Granny Smith, and Jonagold apples. Farms like the Five Mile Orchard and Luz de Valle carry on an epic legacy of apples and supply much of the cider fruit produced in the area. One of the best ways to taste this deep-rooted history is by enjoying the craft hard ciders made from local apples, bringing the flavors of the Corralitos area and Pajaro Valley straight to your glass. Get ready to explore the tastes of autumn in Santa Cruz County with this list of the best spots in the county to grab a glass of hard cider!
1) Santa Cruz Cider Company
Santa Cruz Cider Company is a must-visit for cider lovers in Santa Cruz County. This family-run business started from an abandoned orchard in Watsonville and has since blossomed into a local favorite. Husband and wife team Felix and Nicole Todd, with Nicole’s passion for fermentation, turned those apples into something special: handcrafted cider. Nicole, who is gluten intolerant and experienced in the beverage industry, teamed up with her sister Natalie in 2013 to create Santa Cruz Cider Company. Their ciders feature local ingredients like strawberries and are made with care, from orchard to glass. This cider company is a true family affair, and you can taste the love, care, and dedication they put into the entire process of cider making whenever you stop in for a glass. Experience the large collection of ciders with a tasting flight or grab a glass of your favorite. Visitors can also enjoy inventive creations like rotating cider slushies, cider pops, and warm mulled ciders in the colder months. If you’re a cider lover, Santa Cruz Cider Company should be at the top of your list!
2) Santa Cruz Scrumpy – Hallcrest Vineyards
Hallcrest Vineyard, a historic family-run winery tucked above Downtown Felton, is also home to some of the best hard ciders in the area under their Santa Cruz Scrumpy Ciders label. With a beautiful patio and scenic meadow views, it’s the perfect spot to relax and enjoy a cider flight or a glass of your favorite. Their rotating cider slushies are a hit during the warmer months, and their ciders capture the essence of the Santa Cruz Mountains with fresh, local ingredients. Don’t miss out on fun flavors like the “Smurf City” blueberry cider, their famous pomegranate cider, or their unique wine-cider blend, “French Kiss,” which combines their expertise in both wine and cider. Hallcrest offers a laid-back, flavorful experience that makes it a top spot for cider lovers.
3) Tanuki Cider
Tanuki Cider’s new tasting room on the Westside of Santa Cruz is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking locally crafted, artisanal ciders. Located in a shared space with Sones Cellars, Tanuki offers a lineup of earthy and complex hard ciders made entirely from locally grown, picked, and pressed apples. What sets Tanuki apart is their sense of creativity and collaboration, best experienced in their unique apple wines—a delightful fusion of Sones wines and Tanuki’s signature ciders. Visitors can dive into the flavors with a tasting flight, savor a glass, or bring home a bottle of their favorite blend. Whether you’re a seasoned cider lover or just beginning your journey, Tanuki’s warm atmosphere and innovative offerings make it a standout stop on Santa Cruz’s cider trail.
4) Beer Mule
Beer Mule in Watsonville is a top spot for cider enthusiasts in Santa Cruz County looking to try something different. With over 30 rotating tap items, Beer Mule always features 2-3 cider drinks on tap to choose from! Because their beer and cider selections are always changing, it’s the perfect place to discover new and exciting flavors. Their lineup features a mix of local and regional craft ciders, offering something for every palate like Far West Cider’s You Guava Be Kidding Me. Beyond the drinks, Beer Mule’s laid-back vibe, spacious outdoor patio, lawn games, and excellent food selection make it a great place to kick back and enjoy a cold glass. Whether you’re a cider connoisseur or just looking to try something different, Beer Mule consistently delivers a fun, flavorful experience.
5) Lúpulo Craft Beer House
Lúpulo Craft Beer House in Downtown Santa Cruz is a top spot for cider lovers, offering not only a rotating cider on tap but also an impressive bottle and can selection that expands the variety even further. Their thoughtful approach to curating fresh, high-quality options extends to their cider lineup, including hard-to-find gems and local favorites like Anzani Ciders, an up-and-coming hit in the area. With deep connections in the brewing community, Lúpulo consistently brings in unique, craft selections, ensuring there’s always something exciting to try. Whether you’re sampling their rotating cider on tap or picking up a can of something new, Lúpulo’s knowledgeable staff is there to help guide you through their ever-evolving offerings.
6) Vinocruz Wine Bar and Restaurant
Vinocruz Wine Bar and Restaurant may be best known for its impressive selection of over 50 Santa Cruz Mountains wines by the glass, but they also offer something for everyone with local beer and cider on tap. Alongside their celebrated wine list, they feature 1-2 local ciders like Tanuki and Anzani, giving guests a chance to explore the region’s craft cider scene as well. Vinocruz is one of the best spots to try out Tanuki Ciders, which are a locally crafted dry farmhouse style of cider that every cider lover in the county has to add to their bucket list! Their commitment to showcasing the best of local flavors extends to their food menu, with everything made fresh and in-house. Whether you’re sipping a perfectly paired glass of wine or enjoying a refreshing local cider, Vinocruz provides a true taste of the Santa Cruz Mountains.
With Hallcrest Vineyards in the Santa Cruz Mountains, Santa Cruz Cider Company in Watsonville, and now Tanuki on the Westside, the county offers incredible ciders in every region, each celebrating the area’s rich agricultural heritage.
Santa Cruz County, with its stunning coastal views, vibrant community, and active lifestyle, is the perfect place to indulge in a delicious and nutritious açaí bowl. Originating from the Amazon rainforest, the açaí berry has taken the world by storm, becoming a popular superfood known for its rich antioxidants, fiber, and heart-healthy fats. Blended into a creamy, sorbet-like consistency and topped with an array of fresh fruits, granola, and other delectable toppings, açaí bowls have become a favorite among health enthusiasts and foodies alike.
In Santa Cruz County, the açaí bowl trend is thriving, with numerous local spots offering their unique takes on this refreshing treat. Whether you’re looking for a post-surf snack, a quick and healthy breakfast, or a sweet afternoon pick-me-up, you’ll find a variety of options that cater to all tastes and dietary preferences. From hidden gems to popular favorites, we’ll guide you through the top destinations to enjoy this tropical delight, ensuring your açaí experience in Santa Cruz is nothing short of amazing!
1.) Samba Rock Açaí Cafe 291 Water St, Santa Cruz
Samba Rock is a beloved local institution that serves up some of the best açaí bowls in town! Samba Rock brings Brasil right here to Santa Cruz County with an extensive menu that ensures there is something here for everyone. Whether you want a classic bowl or a unique twist like a peanut butter blended base, you will leave feeling like you’ve indulged in a sweet treat that won’t use up your cheat day! Samba Rock has been one of the leaders for açaí bowls in the county having founded their açaí cafe back in 2009. The fresh organic fruit here is excellent and they have so many options like papaya, mango, and traditional strawberry and banana. Each bite is a perfect blend of refreshing açaí, flavorful fruit, and crispy granola. Try the Carmen Miranda and the Pelé bowls to see why they are must-try menu items!
2.) Roxa Hammock Cafe On Abbott Square in breezeway, 110 Cooper St Suite 100g, Santa Cruz
Roxa is famous for being the nation’s first hammock cafe, but don’t miss out on their excellent açaí menu to enjoy while you hang out! This wonderful eclectic cafe features non-alcoholic elixirs, coffee, and a full menu of delicious açaí bowls. Each bowl is carefully crafted from a unique blend of ingredients and features lots of homemade add-ons like their freshly made almond butter. Everything here is gluten-free and designed to maximize your health while enhancing your wellness. Tucked away in the breezeway next to Abbott Square Market, Roxa is an atmospheric experience that will leave you full and relaxed! Try out items like the O Bombom with delicious homemade raw almond butter, Bringadeiro cream, and fresh fruit. Or try their more adventurous items like the Kambô with avocado, super tonic, and goji berries. Each creation is an expertly crafted, delicious and nutritious treat! Pair it with one of their sober elixirs and take a swinging seat in a hammock to truly get the full Roxa experience.
Mr. Z’s is a beloved creperie with spots in Aptos and Watsonville with an acai menu you don’t want to miss! Known primarily for their mouth-watering crepes and refreshing teas, Mr. Z’s also excels in crafting açaí bowls that are both delicious and wholesome. Their dairy-free organic açaí bowls are perfectly paired with the teas or crepes. Each bowl is the best fuel to power your day whether you want a decadent protein-rich option like the PBC Protein açaí bowl or fruity offerings like the Tropical or Apple Pie açaí bowls. The fruit options like the mango and kiwi in the Tropical bowl are an excellent combination you have to try!
4.) Sampa Brazilian Kitchen 841 N Branciforte Ave, Santa Cruz
Sampa Brazilian Kitchen offers an authentic taste of Brazil right in the heart of Santa Cruz County, and their açaí bowls are a standout feature of their menu. Known for their commitment to traditional Brazilian flavors and culinary techniques, Sampa Brazilian Kitchen crafts açaí bowls that transport your taste buds straight to São Paulo. Each bowl is carefully prepared with a smooth, creamy açaí base, topped generously with fresh fruits, crunchy granola, and a drizzle of honey, creating a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The attention to detail and commitment to using high-quality ingredients sets Sampa’s açaí bowls apart from the rest. Each meal at Sampa is a heartfelt reflection of their family’s culinary journey and when you sit down to eat a meal here, they welcome you as family too!
5.) Terra Superfoods 1855 41st Ave Suite R03, Capitola
Tucked away in the Capitola Mall food court, Terra Superfoods is a true hidden gem for lovers of açaí and plant-based foods. Terra Superfoods began in Monterey but now brings excellent fresh plant-based food here to the Santa Cruz County community. Customers can choose from their selection of delicious bowls or build their own perfect açaí bowl from an extensive selection of bases and toppings. Whether you choose the Terra or the owner’s namesake creation, Jade’s Bowl, you can try unique ingredients like pitaya, blue majik, hemp seeds, mulberries, goji berries, and bee pollen. With so many excellent options, there is truly something wonderful waiting for any customer coming to Terra Superfoods!
6.) Amazon Juices 1066 41st Ave, Capitola
Amazon Juices on 41st Avenue, created by the owners of the beloved Café Brasil, is one of Santa Cruz’s top spots for açaí bowls that are as fresh as they are flavorful. Drawing on their deep knowledge of authentic Brazilian flavors, the owners have crafted a menu that highlights the best of the Amazon’s superfoods with delicious bowls, juices, and to go meals. Their açaí bowls are a standout, made fresh with every order using nutrient-rich açaí berries and a mix of local and exotic fruits like acerola and caju (cashew fruit). Each bowl is not only a delight to the taste buds but also a powerhouse of vitamins and natural nutrients, offering a wholesome and satisfying experience. For those looking to enjoy a truly authentic taste of Brazil, Amazon Juices provides a refreshing, health-focused treat that reflects the quality and passion the Café Brasil team is known for.
7.) Café Brasil 1410 Mission St, Santa Cruz
Café Brasil is a lively and colorful haven that brings the vibrant flavors of Brasil to the local community. This favorite local’s brunch spot is known for its authentic cuisine. Café Brasil has an excellent açaí bowl that is a true classic favorite you have to add to your list! The bowl features a smooth, rich açaí base, adorned with an array of fresh fruits, and crunchy granola, creating a delightful symphony of flavors and textures. The café’s commitment to fresh, high-quality ingredients ensures that every bowl is not only delicious but also brimming with nutritional benefits. The energetic atmosphere, complete with Brazilian decor and friendly service, makes Café Brasil a standout spot for those seeking a genuine taste of Brasil in Santa Cruz. Whether you’re in for a hearty breakfast or a revitalizing snack, Café Brasil’s açaí bowl offers a refreshing and authentic experience that keeps both locals and visitors coming back for more.
8.) Makai: Brews and Bowls 49A Municipal Wharf, Santa Cruz
Makai, located on the scenic Santa Cruz Wharf, offers the best views in town while you enjoy your açaí bowls! Their Brews and Bowls window is a take-out window that enables customers to enjoy the island cuisine Makai dishes in a casual, to-go manner. They offer coffee, cocktails, and açaí bowls that make the perfect portable meal to enjoy while soaking up the sun on the wharf. They have two açaí bowl options, the Makai and the Tropical, both offer a selection of fresh fruits and coconut flakes with a side of granola to ensure it stays crispy! What better way to enjoy an açaí bowl than watching the waves crash against West Cliff as the sound of sea lions echo around you? There is ample bench seating and a few tables around the corner from the Brews and Bowls window where you can take your açaí bowls to get the full wharf experience!
Blanketing the coastline of Santa Cruz County are seemingly endless fields of strawberries, artichokes, olallieberries, and more: an assortment of the delicious, farm-fresh bounty that feeds this area and the world beyond. The coastal fog covers the rich, fertile land with much-needed moisture all year round, producing an astoundingly fresh bounty meant to be savored. Head to the source of it all to connect to the land and harvest your own crops at one of the many U-Pick Farms sprinkled throughout Santa Cruz County. From the lush, green fields of Davenport to the sun-dappled orchards of Watsonville, don’t miss a chance to spend the day luxuriating in the Santa Cruz County U-Pick Farm experience!
SUMMER
Come summertime, there is a multitude of options when it comes to foraging fruits, vegetables, and flowers! Swanton Berry Farm opens its organic olallieberry season to the public in June, July, and August. Speaking of olallieberries, they have grown sweet and full of flavor alongside the boysenberries at Gizdich Ranch* by midsummer. From June until September, it’s the opportune time to pick raspberries at Crystal Bay Farm in Watsonville. Head to Live Earth Farm to search for the best juicy, ripened blackberries late in summer. Strawberries are still ripe for picking and plentiful during the summer at Swanton Berry Farm, Live Earth Farm, Crystal Bay Farm, and Gizdich Ranch*! For a bite of something more savory, collect tomatoes and peppers in August at Live Earth Farm in Watsonville or Post Street Farm in Santa Cruz. Be sure to call or check websites before your visit as some locations require reservations.
To spend an afternoon or evening collecting blossoms, head to Beeline Blooms in Ben Lomond, in the heart of the Santa Cruz Mountains. After 2020’s wildfires scorched the land around her home, owner Karla DeLong created Beeline Blooms to tend to the community’s need for a safe haven and hope. Visit her garden, pick some lively dahlias to take home, and marvel at the healing ability of nature and community. Dahlia U-pick begins in July/early August and runs until Autumn. And if you’d rather do your dahlia U-picking in south county, visit Vallejo Street Dahlias at 37 Paulsen Road in Watsonville. Tickets are available on their website.
Also blooming in mid-July is the sweet scent of lavender at Noble Harvest Farm in Aptos. Visit their website for current hours and location. Pro tip: it’s a great place for a photo shoot! Another fantastic setting for lavender picking is Watsonville’s Mariquita Farms, where they’ve created a stunning lavender labyrinth to wander through. Immerse yourself in the relaxing scent and colors of the blooms, for visitors aged 10 and above by reservation only.
(season currently closed as of August 10, 2024)
AUTUMN
The autumn harvest season is one of the best times to visit Santa Cruz County! As the warmth of early autumn turns crisp and the leaves begin to change, many orchards, vines, and blooms reach peak ripeness. Apples are fully in season, and it’s Watsonville’s time to shine: charming farm orchards await, with a delectable assortment of apple varieties to choose from. Make a day out of a visit to Gizdich Ranch, where you can enjoy a sandwich or snack from their deli to fuel up before handpicking apples to bring home. Don’t forget to grab some pie from their shop before you depart with your bounty! Another local favorite is Live Earth Farm, whose gala and fuji apples are ready to pick in late September. Reservations are required. Nearby is a family-owned, certified organic farm focused on their apples and peaches: Clearview Orchards. From September to November, you can pick your own organic fuji and gala apples on weekends. If apple picking isn’t your style, you can still grab a treat from the Apple Barn, which stocks the finest organic apples, dried lavender, local honey, and even homemade apple turnovers. Support local orchards while getting the freshest apples you’ve ever tasted right from the tree!
Autumn is more than apples, however: the strawberry season comes to a close in September, so head to Swanton Berry Farm for the last organic berries of the season. Dahlias are at their fullest in autumn, vibrant blooms covering the mountainside at Ben Lomond’s Beeline Blooms. A spectacular field of marigolds awaits at Mariquita Farm near Watsonville; take your pick at the end of October and early November for Day of the Dead celebrations and more! They often host string-lit dinners on the farm in autumn, so be sure to check out their offerings. Advanced reservations for visitors 10 and older are required. And it wouldn’t be Fall without picking a pumpkin to decorate your doorstep: there is an abundance of coastal farms and pumpkin patches where you can search for your favorite gourd with an epic ocean background.
WINTER
While the winter season is one of rest for most farms, gardens, and orchards around Santa Cruz County, some crops thrive in the coldest season of the year here. From November through January, visitors can drive up the coast to Davenport’s Swanton Berry Farm to gather organic kiwi as a scrumptious souvenir. Winter is also a great time to stop at the many farmstands and markets to stock up on locally-made preserved goods, such as jams, jellies, and pickled bounty!
SPRING
After the winter rains give way to sunnier spring days on the coast, up pop tiny flashes of scarlet: strawberries, vibrantly shining amidst the expansive green fields along the central coast. From May to October, it’s strawberry season in Santa Cruz County! Take your pick from local, certified organic farms, like Davenport’s Swanton Berry Farm on weekends and Watsonville’s Crystal Bay Farm on Wednesdays & weekends. Live Earth Farm, also in Watsonville, opens its doors in early June for strawberry picking. Reservations are required. For some extra sweetness, head to Watsonville’s Gizdich Ranch, whose strawberry season starts in May alongside their Pie Shop and Deli, so you can have a picnic after you pick. Don’t forget to check out their Farm Store & Antique Shop on-site! If handpicking flowers is more to your taste, head to Santa Cruz’s Post Street Farm to gather your fill of pastel peonies and vibrant ranunculus.
For something a bit more savory, head to Mariquita Farm near Watsonville to gather your own fresh herbs from the farm. Their lavender labyrinth is available to explore, although the blooms won’t be ready until summertime. The beautiful property welcomes visitors ages 10 and over by reservation only, and the best way to stay up-to-date on their offerings is to sign up for their newsletter!
TIPS FOR A SUCCESSFUL U-PICK EXPERIENCE:
Check the farm’s schedule. Many farms require reservations or have specific hours when visitors can pick the bounty, so it’s always best to check each farm’s website for requirements to ensure a smooth visit.
Dress appropriately. Santa Cruz’s cool marine layer can roll in or out quickly, so be sure to wear layers so that you can be comfortable no matter the climate. Sturdy shoes that you’re not worried about getting dirty are a must!
Pack supplies. Don’t forget to lather on the sunscreen and bring water, a hat, and a reusable bag to carry your crops.
Respect the farms. Support these small, local farms while respecting the guidelines they have in place to ensure everyone has a safe and fun visit.
The abundance of U-Pick farms in Santa Cruz provides a noteworthy way to connect to the area’s roots, its local agriculture, and to revel in its fresh, seasonal produce. No matter which season you’re planning to visit Santa Cruz County, the area’s bounty, from strawberries to olallieberries, apples, and kiwis, is sure to delight. Gather your friends and families to head to the fields and pick your way through Santa Cruz County this season!
Summer is in the air, and what more iconic summer culinary creation is there than the hot dog? If you’re hunting for the most mouthwatering hot dogs and sausages in Santa Cruz County, you’ve come to the right place. Read along as we explore Santa Cruz’s Top Dogs! In this gastronomic journey, we’ll embark on a quest to uncover the hidden gems, the sizzling sensations, and the savory delights that make our taste buds tingle with delight. From classic American favorites to creative flavor combinations, join us as we explore the top contenders vying for the title of the best hot dog and sausage spots in this vibrant coastal community. Each of these spots represents some of the best of our small businesses that make up the heart and soul of the culinary scene in Santa Cruz County. These top dog spots, listed in no particular order, are must-tries for those on the quest for the best sausages and hot dogs in town!
Left Coast Connection and the Chicago Dog from Left Coast Sausage Worx
Left Coast Sausage Worx
Located just steps from the beach in Capitola Village, Left Coast Sausage Worx is a one-man operation serving delicious dogs that pack serious flavor in the perfect portable package. Owner and operator Josh makes every visit to the sausage shack an unforgettable experience with customers constantly returning for more! Left Coast Sausage Worx serves traditional beef dogs, turkey dogs, specialty local sausages from Corralitos Market, and vegan/vegetarian dogs. There is something for everyone at this small but mighty shop. They also have a not-so-secret secret menu that offers up classic combos like the Chicago Dog – a Polish sausage topped with spicy sport peppers, pickles, relish, onions, and tomatoes – and the mind-blowing Left Coast Connection, which tops a Cheesy Bavarian sausage with guacamole, sour cream, bacon bits, and Doritos. Every creation is served up from their steam table on fresh Aldo’s bakery bread and topped with high-quality ingredients that will leave your taste buds begging for more. Don’t forget to pair your dogs with local brews like Discretion and SCM Brewing for the perfect experience!
Polish Dog from Happy Dog
Happy Dog Hot Dogs
Happy Dog Hot Dogs serves up happiness in a bun! The welcoming and friendly service at this walk-up hot dog stand elevates these dogs to another level. Happy Dogs offers customers over 25 condiments and toppings available for individual customization to ensure everyone gets their dog their way. From their “dash of love” special seasoning to house pickled peppers, every choice at Happy Dogs is all about having fun, trying new flavor combinations, and filling yourself up on the stuff you love! They even make their own sauerkraut that has rotating flavors and adds something special to your dog. Don’t miss out on their ¼ pound Polish sausages and jumbo beef hot dogs made special just for them that you can only get at Happy Dogs. They also serve up Corralitos sausages, meaning locals don’t have to leave Santa Cruz to get their favorite dogs!
River Dog
Amidst the scenic beauty of Boulder Creek, River Dogs is serving up some delicious hot dogs and sausages that have locals always coming back for more! Inspired by the legacy of Fifi’s in downtown Boulder Creek, River Dogs continues to uphold a tradition of excellence, making it a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts seeking a taste of Santa Cruz County’s finest sausages and hot dogs. From their authentic Chicago Dogs, featuring Vienna Beef Hot Dogs straight from the Windy City, to their locally sourced Italian sausages from Ronnie’s Meat Market, River Dogs offers a delectable array of flavors to tantalize the taste buds. Among their standout offerings is the “MegaShred,” a specialty dog made with pork sausage infused with the bold flavors of MegaShred hot sauce by Hella Hot Hot Sauce, available exclusively at River Dogs. River Dogs is a community hub that brings visitors and locals together over great food and entertainment. With an intimate stage for performers and a welcoming atmosphere, River Dogs invites acoustic and family-friendly acts of all kinds to share their talents with patrons. And for those chilly days, guests can gather around the fire pit, adding warmth and camaraderie to the dining experience.
Kimchi Dog from Steamer Lane Supply
Steamer Lane Supply
Located right on the coast off the famous wave break on Santa Cruz’s Westside, Steamer Lane Supply has been fueling locals, surfers, and visitors for years. They offer a culinary adventure that combines the laid-back coastal style of California Cuisine with the ease of delicious comfort food. Among their standout offerings is the Kimchi Dog, a tantalizing masterpiece that showcases their housemade kimchi. This fusion of flavors takes the classic hot dog to new heights, combining the bold and spicy tang of kimchi with the smoky richness of their premium dogs. The butterflied hot dog is perfectly crisped and rests atop a skirt of crispy cheese that elevates the entire experience to the next level! Enjoy your Kimchi Dog sitting in their outdoor seating area and listen to the crashing waves and barking sea lions from the distant Santa Cruz Wharf.
Corralitos Market & Sausage Company
Corralito’s Market and Sausage Co. stands as a beacon of artisanal sausage excellence. With a knack for crafting flavors that ignite the senses, this hidden gem churns out approximately 2500 pounds of sausage each week, earning them a well-deserved reputation for culinary prowess. Stepping into their welcoming space, tantalizing aromas of freshly grilled meats and the promise of savory delights greet every customer. But what truly sets Corralito’s apart is their dedication to quality and variety. Corralitos Market boasts of creating over 30 mouthwatering varieties of in-house sausages, from traditional classics to innovative creations. There is truly something to satisfy every craving here! Among their signature offerings, the Cheesy Bavarian sausage holds a special place in the hearts of locals, garnering a devoted cult following. The Corralitos Market is a haven for hungry patrons, offering ready-to-eat orders of fresh hot dogs and sausage sandwiches all day. Whether you savor your selection in the lively plaza park just across from the store or opt for a picturesque picnic elsewhere, Corralitos Market ensures that every bite is a testament to the artistry of authentic butcher craftsmanship. With its humble beginnings as a convenience store, this beloved establishment has become a destination that attracts meat lovers from three counties, showcasing the best of Santa Cruz County’s culinary landscape.
