Sweeten up your morning or punch up your afternoon with a cup of locally roasted coffee or tea. Santa Cruz County bakeries, chocolate and confectionary shops, and cafes are ideal places to soothe your sweet tooth and surround yourself with local culture. Inhale the aroma of espresso and settle in at a hip, stylish cafe, abuzz with the energy that only a neighborhood coffee joint can bring. These local hotspots are a magnet for creatives, students, local business owners and members of the community who mix together effortlessly. Garden settings with leafy hanging plants and ample outdoor seating, bright loft-like spaces and cozy living room-inspired classic coffee shops with robust café menus are ideal places to relax.
Grain loaves, brioche, rustic olive rolls, ciabatta and other satisfying breads can be found at artisan bakeries around town which enjoy a dedicated fan base. Scones, pan dulce, olallieberry turnovers and other favorites are ideal accompaniments to traditional tea, boba, or iced coffee. Craft chocolatiers and candymakers are true artisans in a town where much of the ice cream is even handmade.
Got a craving? Check out the options below.
The Santa Cruz area is home to not only an artisan distillery but small production vineyards and hip, coastal breweries. Passionate, friendly wine makers coexist effortlessly with brewers in both rustic and urban tap rooms.