Best Fun Restaurants in Santa Cruz
Price
- $30 and under
- $31 to $50
- $50 and over
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Top Rated
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Award-winning
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24 restaurants available nearby
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See what locals rave about
- EEddieVIPSan Francisco Bay Area •12 reviews5.0Dined todayWe come here nearly weekly since ~2022 (prior to that year too but during pandemic it was spotty - once pandemic subsided, nearly weekly from San Jose, CA to Santa Cruz CA). This place is great - regular attendees every week (37 mile one way from San Jose every Friday). That's big endorsement for their chocolate desserts (we usually get ectasy sundae and warm brownie cake, chocolate gelato, etc). Our go-to entree dishes are past rosettes, Oaxacan chicken mole, hand rolled fettuccine, roasted pork. We don't drink alcohol so can't speak to that.More infoChocolate the RestaurantPrice: Expensive• Californian• Santa Cruz•4.6
- JJeanneVIPDenver / Colorado •6 reviews5.0Dined 6 days agoThere’s a bar on your left as you walk in, the space is laid of beautifully. The open kitchen anchors the room and there’s fresh persimmons hanging to dry. Despite the kitchen being open, the noise level was minimal. Looking up the ceiling, I saw that the noise is managed by acoustic paneling that absorbs the sound. The staff is welcoming, friendly and attentive. We started with the Santa Cruz greens which is a bowl of salad greens and dressed simply in a delicate vinaigrette. It’s light, citrusy and the leaves were fresh. Delicious. We had the hamachi lettuce cups next. The crispy rice was a nice counterbalance to the delicate fish. We shared the ribeye katsu Sando with caramelized onions. What a great bite! Milk toast toasted perfectly and the rib eye cooked medium. The Brussels sprouts with pickled garlic and balsamic/maple glazed and pork belly was the surprise hit of the evening. We couldn’t stop eating it! We also had their version of margarita which was light, citrusy and not overly sweet. We really enjoyed dining here. It’s perfect for a date night!More infoAlderwood Santa CruzPrice: Very Expensive• Contemporary American• Santa Cruz•4.6
- DdonnaSan Francisco Bay Area •9 reviews4.0Dined on Dec 27, 2024Our dinner was OK! We were expecting something a bit different. It was not bad but it was disappointing that it was not more of a traditional Italian menu. My husband ordered the pork chop and thought it was very tasty. I got the butternut squash raviolis. They were a bit dry and could of used more flavor. The Caesar salad was just ok. Needed a bit more flavor. I know they have good reviews so we probably just ordered the wrong dishes. I would try them again some time.More infoGabriella CafePrice: Very Expensive• Italian• Santa Cruz•4.7
- MMelodySan Francisco Bay Area •1 review5.0Dined on Dec 27, 2024The eggplant is always superb. Our waitperson was attentive and not intrusive. The courtyard is a favorite but as it was raining, we had the opportunity to admire the decor inside and appreciate the acoustics. Can count on Laili for consistently high-quality food and service!More infoLailiPrice: Moderate• Mediterranean• Santa Cruz•4.6
- DDavidVIPSan Francisco Bay Area •16 reviews4.0Dined on Dec 15, 2024My friend had the seafood pasta she had the gluten-free pasta which added two dollars to the service. I had the special which was a beef tenderloin tortellini style pasta with a creamy sauce, which was very good. My friend had the seafood pasta, she really enjoyed it. She thought it was an excellent value, and the flavor was very good. I like the overall feel of the restaurant. I like the fact you’re not freezing inside of it which it can be a problem with many restaurants in Santa Cruz. This restaurant was very warm and comfortable and we will definitely be back with friends. More infoOblòPrice: Expensive• Italian• Santa Cruz•4.7
Discover best fun restaurants in Santa Cruz
Discover the vibrant and eclectic dining scene in the Santa Cruz / Capitola / Aptos area, where fun meets culinary innovation. Whether you're planning a lively evening out or a unique culinary adventure, this region offers an array of restaurants that cater to those looking to add a spark of joy and entertainment to their dining experience. Each venue is characterized by a playful ambiance, creative menus, and a commitment to providing a memorable dining experience. From waterfront dining options that merge scenic views with delectable dishes to cozy eateries nestled in the heart of downtown, there's something to satisfy every taste and occasion. These restaurants are renowned for their enthusiastic service and their ability to provide not just a meal, but a truly enjoyable dining event. Perfect for both locals and visitors, this area promises a fun-packed dining experience that pairs the relaxed, scenic backdrop of the Santa Cruz Bay Area with innovative culinary delights. Embrace the charm and excitement of dining in a locale where every meal is served with a side of fun.