Enable JavaScript to run this app.
Skip to main content
OpenTable logo
  1. Home
  2. United States
  3. San Francisco Bay Area

Best Neighborhood Gem Restaurants in Santa Cruz

Price
Cuisine
Regions
Neighborhoods
Top Rated
Dining Options
Seating Options
Accessibility

7 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Laili restaurant
1. Laili
4.7
Exceptional(2860)
Price: Moderate
• Mediterranean • Santa Cruz
Booked 23 times today
Laili is our expression of love through food and service. We offer a unique menu made up of fusion Afghani Mediterranean items that include kabobs, wraps, flatbreads, pastas, and spiced lamb and chicken dishes as well as delicious vegetarian options.Laili Restaurant "BEST MIDDLE EASTERN RESTAURANT", Good Times 2023, Voted #1Rich Mediterranean Flavors with a Unique Afghan Twist in the Heart of Downtown Santa Cruz.Currently taking reservations for lunch and dinner, walk-ins welcome too.Dine in our elegant, secluded, off street patio. Visit our website for event information.
A photo of Oswald restaurant
2. Oswald
4.6
Exceptional(1613)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary American • Santa Cruz
Booked 3 times today
Oswald is a contemporary American restaurant and bar that focuses on the abundance of delicious ingredients found on the central coast of California. Oswald features an eclectic, international wine list and an exciting, seasonal bar program. While the decor is spare and modern, the atmosphere is comfortable and relaxed. Oswald features new art shows every two months. We do have first come tables available in the lounge as well as bar seats.Come by and see if there is a table or seat for you.
A photo of Gabriella Cafe restaurant
3. Gabriella Cafe
4.7
Exceptional(975)
Price: Very Expensive
• Italian • Santa Cruz
Booked 3 times today
Gabriella Cafe is a neighborhood gem because of its consistently delicious food, charming atmosphere, and efficient service. The restaurant is often described as 'quaint', 'cozy', and 'romantic', making it a favorite among locals for special occasions and quiet lunches. It's also praised for its use of local, seasonal produce, creative touch, and broad menu to satisfy all preferences. As one reviewer said, 'Another stellar dining experience at Gabriela. We love this neighborhood gem!'
A photo of Jack O'Neill Restaurant & Lounge restaurant
4. Jack O'Neill Restaurant & Lounge
4.7
Exceptional(1962)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary American • Santa Cruz
Booked 10 times today
Jack O’Neill Restaurant and Lounge is Santa Cruz’s best new destination for coastal California cuisine. The approachable and family-friendly vibe at Jack O’Neill Restaurant and Lounge will welcome hotel guests and locals alike.
A photo of la Posta restaurant
5. la Posta
4.8
Exceptional(2332)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Santa Cruz
Booked 13 times today
Select from a menu that features dishes composed of locally sourced ingredients as well as house-made pastas, naturally leavened breads and pizzas from our brick oven. Because we rely on the bounty of the Santa Cruz farming community, our menu changes frequently and features a wide array of specials. La Posta’s all-Italian wine list includes autochthonous varieties from small producers, by-the-glass and by the bottle. La Posta adheres to the Monterey Bay Seafood Watch Program and is a certified City of Santa Cruz Green Business.We are so thankful for the incredible support from our customers and community. We will continue to adjust our service based upon best practices for keeping our staff and community safe.
A photo of The View, a Treeside Restaurant restaurant
6. The View, a Treeside Restaurant
4.1
Excellent(1173)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary American • Santa Cruz
Booked 10 times today
Set high on a hilltop with breathtaking panoramic views of the Monterey Bay, The View, at Chaminade offers a unique dining experience. Indoor and outdoor seating allows guests to enjoy the naturally beautiful scenery which compliments the contemporary California Cuisine. Whether it’s sustainable seafood or locally grown produce, The View emphasizes natural ingredients while providing four-diamond service. A 4% surcharge will be added to all guest checks to help cover increases in labor costs and to support a higher minimum wage.***Please note that our kitchen closes from 1:30pm-2:00pm to prepare for dinner service. Our bar and restaurant remain open during that time, offering a fine selection of local wines, craft beers, signature cocktails, and non-alcoholic refreshments to enjoy.
A photo of Cafe Cruz Rosticceria & Bar restaurant
7. Cafe Cruz Rosticceria & Bar
4.7
Exceptional(2034)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary American • Soquel
Booked 33 times today
Cafe Cruz is a local favorite in Soquel, serving contemporary American cuisine. With its open kitchen and rotisserie, it's a hit for its innovative pastas, sandwiches, and sustainable seafood specials. Reviewers rave about its warm and friendly staff, exceptional food, and cozy ambiance, calling it a 'gem' in the neighborhood.

How is content generated

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Joyce
    San Francisco Bay Area •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    The tacos were delicious, just the right amount of spicy. Both of my friends had an eggs Benedict dish and they were both amazing. Excellent service, beautiful atmosphere, best view in Santa Cruz!!
    More info
    Jack O'Neill Restaurant & LoungePrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Santa Cruz
    •
    4.7
  • Sabinavip
    Seattle / Eastern Washington •127 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Beautiful restaurant with a lovely outdoor space as well. The food is amazing, savory and fresh. Nice wine list too. Had the lamb burger with salad and potatoes... To die for! Also had the meringue and strawberry dessert which was delicate and beautiful to look at. Really a stellar experience. Would highly recommend.
    More info
    LailiPrice: Moderate• Mediterranean• Santa Cruz
    •
    4.7
  • Brendavip
    San Francisco Bay Area •3 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Nov 24, 2024
    We ordered off of the Happy Hour menu and had a number of delicious dishes; lasagne & salad, burger & fries, and Mac n’cheese. The Olive app was good too. Also the happy hour cocktails: Negroni & Orange/ pomegranate cocktail were delicious. Unfortunately the avocado toast wasn’t available, but we’ll be back. Our server Janet was great too!!
    More info
    OswaldPrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Santa Cruz
    •
    4.6
  • Angievip
    San Francisco Bay Area •20 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Nov 21, 2024
    Loved the food as always, creative yet simple enough to let the ingredients “talk”. Fabulous service.
    More info
    la PostaPrice: Moderate• Italian• Santa Cruz
    •
    4.8
  • adrianna
    San Francisco Bay Area •1 review
    5.0
    Dined on Nov 10, 2024
    Great service and outstanding food! I also love the ambience. I highly a recommend Gabrielle café.
    More info
    Gabriella CafePrice: Very Expensive• Italian• Santa Cruz
    •
    4.7

Discover best neighborhood gem restaurants in Santa Cruz

Discover the hidden treasures of the Santa Cruz / Capitola / Aptos area with our curated selection of neighborhood gem restaurants. Each dining spot offers a unique charm and a commitment to quality that stands out in the vibrant culinary landscape of the San Francisco Bay Area. These establishments are celebrated for their intimate atmospheres, personalized service, and the use of local, seasonal ingredients that reflect the area's rich agricultural heritage. From cozy, romantic settings ideal for special occasions to casual, quaint bistros perfect for a relaxed meal, there's something to match every mood and taste. The dining scene here is a blend of innovation and tradition, where chefs pride themselves on creating memorable meals that highlight the best of what the locale has to offer. Whether you're a local or a visitor, these neighborhood gems provide a delightful culinary experience that invites you to come back time and again. Explore these exceptional eateries and find your new favorite dining destination in Santa Cruz / Capitola / Aptos.

Explore OpenTable

Discover
OpenTable
  • About Us
  • Blog
  • Careers
  • Press
More
Our sites
Businesses
  • Delight more diners
  • Open for Business Blog
Join us on
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Use
  • Cookies and Interest-Based Ads
  • Cookie Preferences
Copyright © 2024 OpenTable, Inc. 1 Montgomery St Ste 500, San Francisco CA 94104 - All rights reserved.
OpenTable is part of Booking Holdings, the world leader in online travel and related services.
Booking Logo
Priceline Logo
KAYAK Logo
Agoda Logo
OpenTable Logo