“Fried chicken meal always seems solid and usually provides some leftovers. Chicken strips on the other hand were terrible. They were tough, stringy and the coating blows. You'd think it would be the same as the fried chicken but it's not even close. Service is fine when I've ordered take out never stayed to eat.“
“Google reviews brought us to the Empire grille, and those reviews were spot on. This restaurant is clean and organized, even the bathroom. All of our food was very reasonably priced, served hot, and delicious. Our waitress was amazing!!!!! I'll be back.“
“New favorite! Ate here w/ 4 people and every meal and appetizers were all AMAZING! Pulled pork w/ ginger BBQ sauce was soooo good! Sweet potato fritters app was to die for. Even the beer was great. Very friendly staff and comfortable atmosphere.“
“Very friendly atmosphere, food came out fast and was dang good. Only negative I'd have to give is somehow by 2024 they still only take check or cash. So get ready to leave your table and walk to the ATM.Kid-friendliness: There's a kids section on the menu, quite a bit of options for drinks, lots of juices and it comes out in a Mason Jar with a lid and straw which the kids liked.“
“We met friends for brunch. We were 1st time patrons. The food was really good. We sat outside and the atmosphere was nice and laid back. We will be coming back. I didn't like the fact that only food for 2 of us was brought out and the other 2 had to wait for theirs and someone came to pick up our plates but only took 2 plates when she asked if she could take them all away. All she had to do was stack the other 2 plates.Overall a good experience.“
“Somehow our reservation was not in the system. We reserved through yelp so maybe that's why. When we arrived for a 7pm they couldn't seat us. So we decided to seat in the walk in lounge area. Curiously... the host could have just told us to wait until 7:15 as the reservation system showed availability. Small service issue but everyone was really nice. The steak sandwich was great. The brie was also very good. The artichoke hearts however were not very tasty. Didn't expect the inedible leaves to be part of the fried artichoke hearts. Prime rib was incredibly tender and one of the best we've had. The server in the lounge was great and loved his service. Wish I remembered the name.“
“I find this restaurant to be a very sweet treat. It's the only place in town. I can find beef cheeks, if you've never had them you should try them. The most delectable mouthwatering, juicy meat falls apart in your mouth like butter. I miss when they used to have the pizza oven, but everything else is rather delicious so I'll let it pass. Don't be over sold by the squid ink pasta, it's not that great. Always order the Barada, it's super fresh and absolutely delicious“
“Excellent! Decided to take my family of 4 for Easter Brunch today. Corn beef & hash with scrambled eggs were delicious. I had the guevos rancheros, which was cooked perfectly. Denver omlette was amazing. Friendly staff, food came quick & the wait wasn't too long even during a busy brunch rush. Outdoor seating is nice & the chairs are made for your tush. Very comfortable! Enjoy!“
“I feel like there’s an unwritten bay area vegan rule that if you see a GATS sticker or tag, the place is solid - this spot has 3 so you know it’s real, lol. For reals though this is a go-to for my wife and I, the crew are always so damn kind and they have mad vegan options. Come get you a not-chicken sandwich (don’t be an idiot and come here and get upset it isn’t real meat), some fries with vegan ranch, and any of the drinks- they’re all good. Then post up on the patio and chill. Also if they have the pistachio praline soft serve: do it. Twice. Not a giant menu but they don’t need one… everything on it is good.Dietary restrictions: Vegan / Vegetarian only restaurant, the staff is always on point making sure you get what you ordered if you didn’t want the dairy version (thanks guys)“
“Tasty breakfast. I had the machaca scramble. The tomatilla salsa that was provided was fantastic. The meal came with a choice of different toasts, but I was able to substitute corn tortillas. I'll be returning to try the chicken fajita omelet.Vegetarian options: There are vegetarian options like chilaquiles and huevos rancheros but vegans would be hard-pressed to find something.“
“OMG THE BEST PANCAKES I'VE EVER HAD!!!!!Bread and corned beef are made in house. Our server's name was Dylan and I can't remember the last time. I had such an attentive and helpful server. Everything in this restaurant is top notch. If you're going out for breakfast or lunch in Santa Cruz, I highly highly recommend it.“
“Amazing!!!My husband and I made reservations for our anniversary. As soon as we walked in, I loved VIM. It's beautifully decorated and everyone is welcoming. They even printed Happy Anniversary on the menu for us We ordered the butter charcuterie board to start. It was delicious and I could have eaten a pound of the butter. Our cocktails were great and we had seconds. I had the bass and my husband had the pork and we left no crumbs! We also got the chocolate cake and the pumpkin cheesecake to go, and those were fabulous. Everything was fabulous and we will absolutely be back!“
“Absolute favorite brunch spot. Have been coming here for 10+ years, it's just so good!! Fast and friendly service in a homey diner setting. Amazingly tasty brunch food, my favorites are the seedy French toast and orange poppyseed pancake specials. The place is pretty small and often has a wait during busy times, but they move parties through efficiently and it's absolutely worth any wait!“
“I had an iced mocha to drink. It tasted great! To eat, I had the biscuits and gravy with eggs. The gravy was excellent, and so were the biscuits. The eggs were just a little under seasoned, but were other wise great. Staff were very friendly. It did take about 5-10 minutes to be seated though. They should hire a little extra help.“
“Came in on a Wednesday morning during Spring break. They were busy and a minor wait as they were busy. Staff was attentive, but not rushing us. The banana walnut French toast was just what I needed. Food came out quick enough for the 5 of us. All were happy and full. The live plants arranged seeing the restaurant were a nice touch. Bathrooms are single occupancy, but the are 2 and they were clean, always a plus for me to know they keep things clean. If the bathroom is clean the kitchen is likely as well. Looks like they're adding more outdoor seating. Would like to come back on a nice Summer morning“
“Have you tried the blackened chicken burger/sandwich? If not, run, don't walk to get yourself one. Life changing. Amazing. This thing is massive and so delicious. Can't wait to have it again for lunch . Worth every penny . I'd give it more stars if it was possible“
“I had the cheese burger and even though it didn't come out prepared as I ordered it (med-rare), I was pleasantly surprised by the texture and taste of a charcoal kissed beef patty chard to perfection,of which I had not tasted in, so very, very long. The regular style fries were also seasoned and delicious on their own without the help of ketchup.After tip we still ended up spending more than $20 per person (almost $50 for two) which is rather high in my opinion. I'd love to be able to enjoy this regularly, but it's going to be every once in awhile at these prices.“
“Be careful with allergies. I was served gluten after specifically telling our server I was allergic. People make mistakes, so be cautious. Besides that, the appetizer- shrimp n grits. Unbelievably delicious, if it hasn’t won an award it should. It’s really really good. Chef Nick called me after we left (he was not at the restaurant) and apologized, comped the meal. Very gracious. Up until I ate gluten, it was the best dining experience I’ve had in decades. Unfortunately, we had to cut it short and leave.“
“Absolutely best beef ribs in town falling off the bone , I highly recommend trying them and asking for a side of Mango Habanero sauce on the side , and don't forget to pair it with some English wings , amazing place and superb Staff , they make you feel like home , great upstairs bar as well and live music and events always going on, much love and keep up the amazing food and positive Vibes“
“I took my neighbor's daughter at UCSC here for brunch. We got two Cali Croissants, one with regular bacon and one with turkey bacon, a ginger beer, and a Kombucha. The Cali Croissant is HUGE and will not fit into your mouth, unless perhaps you are a teenage boy. The Croissant was lightly toasted and delicious. My fruit side came with a nice mix of fruit: actual strawberries and blueberries, as opposed to just the standard grapes and melons. I really appreciated that. Service was friendly, but they don't really check on you when they're busy. They just brought us our food and the check. The only drawbacks are that it's crowded inside and the prices are not student-friendly. Not prohibitively expensive, but a little pricier than your typical breakfast and brunch spot. The quality of the food was great, though, so the pricing is somewhat justified.“
“They have a good thing going on here. Don't let the chef leave, they are good. Came with my family. Our server was a kind woman who went out of her way to make sure we were taken care of and brought coloring supplies for our girls (not just a sheet but full coloring books). The food was outstanding. The kids meny food was so good, they aren't dumbing it down or cutting corners, instead exposing children to great technique. They brought us little freebie appetizers which is always a nice touch. We sat on the patio on a nice day and I couldn't have asked for more.“
“Over 10 years I’ve been eating at this place. And I probably always will when in the area. The food this last time was fine overall (I had the corned beef) though the short French fries (there was no real hash) were dark and hard. And the bakery section did not have the good selection it used to have: first time I didn’t get a dessert. Other than that, it’s a great place.“
“I'm new to the area, and maybe there are better places, but I have very little reason to find them. It's bar food, but it is done very well. The staff is friendly, I like that you control the ordering, the atmosphere is great and it seems to be welcoming for all. Check it out, let me know if I'm wrong.“
“Always fast service and never any mistakes with my orders. I honestly don’t understand why there CANT be an up charge for an additional item for the Pizza Sandwich. I’ve had mushrooms added previously but when they’re busy, it’s not okay. I always tip 18-20% and even more yesterday when I somehow accidentally added an extra item to a personal pizza and was refunded.When you only get a measly 6 jalapeños as your second item, are a few mushrooms gonna be a huge deal? Wouldn’t customer satisfaction be worth $.75? I’m lost on why you can add tons to a pizza and get charged for that but not on a sandwich. ?♀️“
“Is it a used book store with a wine and beer bar or a wine and beer bar with a used book store? Either way, it's super cute, unique, hipster spot downtown with a great used book store and delicious Thai restaurant, Hanloh Thai, inside.“
“This was an excellent little cafe. My husband and I were in town for a mini getaway and wanted to find a nice place for breakfast. I am vegetarian and always look on Yelp for places that have vegetarian options. This place was great, both with the quality of the food and with the excellent service we received from our waitress. She was very friendly and hospitable; she kept my coffee cup full. I don't remember the name of the dish, but it was a large portion of their country potatoes topped with lots of fresh sauteed veggies and a little melted cheese; I had sourdough toast as well. It was THE BEST breakfast dish I have ever had in a restaurant; the ingredients were so fresh and not overly cooked at all. My husband had a wonderful plate of food as well (although he declined to have his food photographed); it was a combination plate with one waffle, eggs over medium and sausage - I don't remember if he had potatoes or toast (he should have let me take a photo ;) ). If we are ever back in the area we will definitely come back to Sunrise Cafe. :)“
“Weekend brunch was delicious and not crowded at all. Friendly service and easy parking will make this a place we come back to. We had the chicken and waffles and the carnitas benedict with polenta instead of the English muffin. Highly recommend.“
“Great service. We walked in and were seated very quickly. Our waiter was so kind and attentive to us! She was so sweet I cannot remember her name but everyone who helped out was so nice. The food was so delicious - I ordered the fish tacos and the pork tacos and both were so unbelievably delicious. This is a great spot for dinner in downtown area - would love to return!“
“This place definitely deserves 5 stars. The food was very delicious and tasty. The flavors were very delicate and had a somewhat Asian note. The scallops and the salmon were amazing. We couldn’t decide which one was better. It was the juiciest salmon my husband and I ever had.“
“Great food, really good service. What more could you ask for?!Kid-friendliness: We are a larger family (four kids) and, not only were they warm and welcoming to us all, they also rearranged tables to accommodate us more comfortably. Thanks!“
“Absolutely the best venue I played in so far in California. I performed here on Friday Dec 22. The staff was very helpful, even gave me a few more black coffees than I originally needed early on in the night. I felt good playing for the people there, I think some of the crowd really got what I was doing and got to build a little community. This venue did the right thing by me and I hope to come back in the near future! Total class and I highly recommend Henfling's Tavern, Ben Lomond CA“
“We’ve been fans of Chef Damien’s other endeavors for some time but this iteration is elevated to new levels and might be the best kept secret in Santa Cruz! The food is a wide range from Asian fusion to Brewery pub classics. Each dish has a beautiful balance of flavor and richness yet feels light and clean. The beers on tap vary from other local spots so you try some new Monterey bay local breweries. The ambience is classic old diner mashed up with skate/ surf culture with rock leanings. Bar scene with a tv and kind, warm people equals, great spot to watch a game. In short, this place is a gem and we always feel like we are scoring a new secret spot. Go now before it gets line out the door busy!“
“A special place for locals. We're always treated like royalty! Great food and drinks, beautiful beach and sunset views and the staff are fantastic!Kid-friendliness: We've been taking our kids there for ten years. They love the food and use to play on the beach, within eyesight, while we sipped on our drinks! Now they drink with us! They allow pets on the patio as well!“
“Scopazzi's is the best. The staff is always great, the food is always great, and the atmosphere is one of the best the county has to offer, maybe the best, in fact. If you are coming from far away, it's worth it. Make the drive, have an amazing dinner or brunch or whatever you are in time for. Take your time, and enjoy the place.I'm going to take a moment for a criticism though, so you all don't think I'm just some kind of shill... Don't order the sausage with the Fettuccine Alfredo. The sausage is tasty, but you will pay $5 for literally six tiny pieces of sausage. You will think to yourself... What kind of sausage costs $1 per quarter inch? You will be pretty upset.Okay, that aside, everything is great. Thursday only for Lasagna, and I think Saturday only for the prime rib. Both are great. If you aren't there on either of those nights, the lamb is fantastic.Final warning: this is not a cheap restaurant. For most of us, it's a place for anniversaries, prom dates, and marriage proposals. Still, it's worth it. If you are looking for someplace really special, and have saved up a few coins for that, you will get what you pay for here and have an evening to remember.Kid-friendliness: We have gone there with a toddler, and they found us a quiet space away from the other diners. They did everything they could to accommodate us, but we're also rightly and justly sensitive to the other diners. They couldn't have done better with a difficult situation. I think they even made him something completely off the menu, just for his tiny picky toddler self.“
“The appetizer pictured was really good. It was a bit much for an appetizer so I couldn't finish my dinner. It was like eating breakfast right before dinner. But it was tasty. I'd go back just for that. I had the brisket for dinner, which was also very good. The place was nearly empty, yet they squeezed us next to another table right by the kitchen. So now I hate them. There a parking garage close by but it gets a lot of traffic. Beware the homeless sleeping in the stairwell. They're harmless. Just don't trip stepping over them.“
“Outstanding restaurant, particularly with food and service. We arrived on a very busy, rainy Friday evening and put our name on the waitlist. It was a short wait so we decided to just wait there. We were treated with incredible hospitality from the beginning- someone (maybe the GM, I’m not sure his role) chatted with us while we waited and we immediately felt at ease and even more excited about the meal we were about to have. Our server was a consummate professional and she basically read my mind and made sure i had some mozz on my pizza. The food was some of the best I’ve had in Santa Cruz. But what makes me most eager to return is the wonderful experience of being welcomed as a guest at this lovely restaurant.“
“It was stormy but still beautiful. They were so nice and accommodating. Ended up having an issue with hot water so they fully refunded us and were so nice. I can't wait to go back another time and try again.Nearby activities: Many beautiful beaches nearby. The restaurant and bar are fun too.Food & drinks: Great food and drinks.“
“We had a great birthday celebration at the Crepe Place last weekend. It was a group of ten, and we started outside, but when it started sprinkling, they quickly whisked our group inside. Sarah, our server, was so friendly and attentive, and all if the staff were great. I was so excited to see not just gluten-free crepes, but gluten--free English muffins for the bennies. The GF crepe was delicious. Hadn't been there in a while, but I plan to go back soon.“
“It's not a chain. It's very calm, not loud, the service is great, as is the food. Huge portions with low prices. Saturday night prime rib with rice, pilaf, salad, etc. 25,99, but it sells out early. Fortunately, for Mom and me we were early. Delicious.“
“The Food was as great as I was told. It is an Old Fashion style Bar and Grill with a very Local feel. The teo meals I had there were the Pork chops and the second time the Seafood. The Pirk Chops were exceptional and the pirtions were generous. The Seafood was excellent and next I will try the Dinner Salads. The Staff are so friendly and wuick to please. I will return. Jim Nakashima“
Cocktail Bar • $$
“Stopped in on a Thursday evening after my friend, who was born and raised in Santa Cruz, recommended this place to me for the umpteenth time. I had to apologize an equal amount of times because I have been missing out. I visited just the tasting room because I had my two dogs with me. First impressions are important and the bartender was so friendly and knowledgeable. I had the Grapefruit and Grace first and it was a mild but still tasty drink. It was well balanced and refreshing. It really hit the spot for the 70 degree day it was. I finished it pretty fast because it was an easy drink, so be careful. I also had a mocktail (A ROSE BY ANY OTHER NAME), and it was just as refreshing without the kick, obviously. I would order it again if I wasn't in the mood to drink because I am a sucker for elderflower. I also got the popcorn which I really liked. It was very well seasoned (I must know the seasoning lol) and each piece had a crunch to it. I wasn't hungry so it was a nice snack that won't fill anyone up too much, yet it was satisfying. I honestly eat popcorn five times a week so I feel like I am an expert on the subject lmao I will definitely have to go back and have some more of the food and their seasonal drinks. It was a great first impression for a quick stop in!“
“Love traditional burger joints. I have been coming here my entire life and though its changed hands a few times, the current family is really sweet and helpful. I wish they took down some of the decorations and opened it up more but its cool as it is. It works for what it is. They make the food really good and are super sweet. I buy treats for my grampy and friends (I dont eat this kind of food) and the food is always top notch. Careful in the parking lot, there are cactus with a vendetta. Oh, get the hot fudge sundae and boss burger. Both great.“
“Suda is located near 41st Ave off of Portola Drive. I often forget it is here until someone invites me to lunch and this is where we end up. I have been here for a baby shower as well; they have a private party room in the back if you want to have a more private space with your friends. They have great brunch and lunch. I have only been here once for dinner and it is just as good. I usually end up getting the burger or fish tacos which are both really good. The atmosphere is really cute; they have lots of plants which makes the space feel inviting and cozy. I love coming here. They also have plenty of parking in the parking lot. If you haven't been here yet, you should definitely give them a try.“
“The food was delicious. The scalloped potatoes tasted like the ones my mom used to make, scrumptious. The ribs melted in your mouth. The he bbq sauce was perfect, not too thick, just right and flavor was fantastic. We had a large party and everyone loved their choice. The server Clay, was friendly & attentive. The restaurant was busy and the volume was quiet and relaxing. Definitely a wonderful experience overall. Can't wait to go back. Thank you to the complete staff.“
“Avenue cafe was a gem of a find with a breakfast craving and the fully came thru for a group of four people they had something for everyone. They server has Sandy and she was amazing with the best recommendations that did not disappoint. From the carnitas egg Benedict, country fried steak and traditional steak. Everything was awesome!“
“Carlos hasn't changed a bit except for higher prices. Really time for the restaurant to get a face-lift. We ordered a great seafood kabab and a crab and shrimp sandwich. Portions are large and it was filling. Excellent that they serve the food to-go thru a back window to Beer Thirtys beer garden next door.“
“Been here 4 or 5 times in the last few years. We try to come every time we visit Santa Cruz. Always a bunch of great beers on tap. The food is always delicious! Lots of interesting things on the menu. Our service has always been great. We will continue coming back every time we visit.“
“Vino Cruz is a refreshingly casual wine bar. There are so many choices, each with very detailed descriptions, making it easy for the novice to order something that they'll like. And the owner always has great suggestions. Really enjoy the live music, especially the Samurai Gypsies.“
“SC Bread Boy is a cheeseburger savant. The burgers were absolutely perfect. Chef Lance smashed them so beautifully that they came out with this gorgeous, lacy beef skirt and they're just oozing with cheese. The buns are squishy, the pickles are plentiful and crunchy, and the onions melt in your mouth.It was our first time, but I think the menu changes. This weekend, we got:The OG: DBL Patty, DBL Cheese, long cut Pickle, Onions, Burger SauceButter Burger: DBL Patty, DBL Cheese, whipped whole fat Sriracha butterMarket Salad: Red Butter lettuce, Winter citrus, Daikon, Parm, Red wine vin (the salad was just as well made as the burgers! it's a real treat. get it!)Tip: The fries have this extra crispy, craggy coating that make them extra delicious. So get your own fries. You won't want to share! We got extra burger sauce and homemade buttermilk ranch to dip them in.Humble Sea itself was 100% chill. People brought their dogs and their kids and the staff was super friendly. Hubby tried 3 beers and loved them all. He even bought a 4-pack. And I was super stoked to learn that they also serve cocktails and wine. The margarita I had was simple, but good.We will definitely be back because what's better than amazing burgers and beer on a cold, rainy night?“