26 Best American Restaurants in Santa Cruz

Linda’s Seabreeze Café Cafe • $
542 Seabright Ave, Santa Cruz

Customers` Favorites

Chicken Apple Sausage & Eggs
Orange Poppy Seed Pancakes
Oats-Cornmeal Waffle
Blueberry Pancakes
French Toast Combo
Corned Beef Hash
Denver Omelette
Greek Scramble
Eggs Benedict
Cinnamon Roll

“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!“

4.7 Superb118 Reviews
Evarista`s Comal restaurant Family • $$$
2-1245 E Cliff Dr Unit A, Santa Cruz

Customers` Favorites

Chilaquiles Rojos 2 Eggs Any Slile
Eggs Benedict Sauce on Sinde
Chile Verde and Pulled Pork
Quesabirrias Lite Toppings
French Toast and Berries
Salmon Club Sandwich
Birria with Consome
Evarista's Pancake
Regular Benedict
Machaca Scramble

“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.“

4.8 Superb91 Reviews
Zachary's Restaurant Breakfast • $
819 Pacific Ave, Santa Cruz

Customers` Favorites

A La Carte 2 Egg Omelets
Mickey Mouse Pancakes
Mike's Mess with Toast
Home Fried Potatoes
Jalapeno Corn Bread
Sourdough Pankakes
Sourdough Waffles
Artichoke Frittata
Pancake Breakfast
Corned Beef Hash

“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.“

4.7 Superb110 Reviews
Vim Dining and Desserts American • $$$
2238 Mission St, Santa Cruz

Customers` Favorites

Butter Charcuterie Board
Chorizo Fettuccine
Strawberry Churro
Balsamic Steak
Seasonal Salad

“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!“

4.8 Superb70 Reviews
Silver Spur American • $
2650 Soquel Dr, Santa Cruz

Customers` Favorites

Egg and Cheese and a Ham Egg and Cheese
Chicken Fried Steak and Eggs Any Style
Orange Juice Coffee & Sourdough Toast
Corned Beef Hash Eggs Any Style
Waffle with Strawberry N Cream
Silver Spur Club Sandwhich
Belgian Waffle with Fruit
Cinnamon French Toast
Chorizo Eggs Benedict
Biscuits and Gravy

“Whenever we are in the area, we try to stop at the Silver Spur. It is one of our all-time favorite breakfast spots. This time, I had my kids and grandkids (7 of us), and we were seated and served quickly, even though they were really busy. Everyone enjoyed their meal, whether French toast, a scramble, or eggs benedict. I suggest the home fries, which are the best you will find.“

4.6 Superb102 Reviews
The Walnut Avenue Cafe Breakfast • $
106 Walnut Ave, Santa Cruz

Customers` Favorites

Belgian Waffle with Grilled Bananas and Walnuts
Grilled Banana and Walnut French Toast
Huevos Rancheros Con Carnitas
Blackened Ahi Benedict
French Toast Breakfast
Toast and Homefries
Huevos Mexicanos
Grain Pancakes
Chilaquiles
Avocado

“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“

4.5 Superb112 Reviews
The Water Street Grill American • $$
503 Water St, Santa Cruz

Customers` Favorites

Garlic Butter Shrimp Linguine Pasta
Filet Mignon and Lobster Tails
New York Steak with Prawns
Bourbon Street Chicken
Crispy Calamari
Fried Asparagus
Cowboy Burger
Seafood Pasta
French Fries
Bread Pudding

“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.“

4.4 Superb123 Reviews
Harbor Café Breakfast • $$
535 7th Ave, Santa Cruz

Customers` Favorites

Basic Breakfast 2 Eggs Your Way
Country Steak Breakfast
Traditional Benedict
Mexican Tofu Scramble
Carnitas Omelette
Breakfast Burrito
Frittata Supreme
Cali Benedict
Churro Waffle
Harbor Cafe

“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.“

4.5 Superb88 Reviews
Alderwood Santa Cruz American
155 Walnut Ave, Santa Cruz

Customers` Favorites

Beer-Battered Dungeness Crab
Roasted Hen of the Woods'
Allen Brothers Usda Prime
Smoked Magret Duck Breast
Vanilla Bean Creme Br
Embered Diver Scallop
Roasted Bone Marrow
Cheeseburger w Bacon
Smoked Beet Salad
Grilled Avocado

“It's expensive but very good. Has a big city vibe. Presents like a Michelin starred restaurant. I enjoyed it very much. Also fun to talk with the executive chef about the food prep at the chefs counter. And to watch them work in the kitchen.“

4.1 Good157 Reviews
BAD ANIMAL American • $$
1011 Cedar St, Santa Cruz

“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.“

4.5 Superb66 Reviews
Hula's Island Grill American • $$
221 Cathcart St, Santa Cruz

Customers` Favorites

Crispy Coconut Shrimp Rolls
Jawaiian Jerk Pork Plate
Duke's Luau Pork Plate
South Seas Fish Tacos
Sweet Potato Fries
Island Style Poke
Kona Chicken Wings
Hawaiian Ceviche
Spicy Edamame
Key Lime Pie

“The food here is great! I got the kalbi ribs which were quite good and the rice is super great (not the typical bland white rice). Their dessert is amazing! It's a must and is so delicious. The decor is great and the ambiance is nice but the service was quite slow and average.“

4.2 Good96 Reviews
The Point Kitchen and Bar American • $$
3326 Portola Dr, Santa Cruz

Customers` Favorites

Pulled Pork Sandwich with Garlic Fries
Pleasure Burger and Fries
Filet Mignon and Shrimp
Crispy Brussels Sprouts
Grilled Pork Chops
Chicken Schnitzel
Molten Lava Cake
Polenta
Salad

“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.“

4.4 Superb50 Reviews
Cruz Kitchen & Taps American • $$
145 Laurel St, Santa Cruz

Customers` Favorites

Blackened Fish Sando
Peanut Butter Cake
Braised Short Ribs
Leafy Green Salad
Cruz Burger
Ceviche
Wings
Fries

“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!“

4.2 Good95 Reviews
Oswald Restaurant American • $$
121 Soquel Ave, Santa Cruz

Customers` Favorites

Market Fish Plate
Chocolate Souffle
Burger and Fries
French Fries
Steak Medium

“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.“

4.1 Good149 Reviews
Jeffery's American • $
2050 Soquel Ave, Santa Cruz

Customers` Favorites

Chicken Fried Steak with Biscuits and Gravy
Country Fried Steak and Eggs
Chicken Fried Steak and Eggs
Cheeseburger with Fries
Monte Cristo Sandwich
Eggs and Hash Browns
American Breakfast
Breakfast Sandwich
Cinnamon Roll
Blueberry

“My husband & I live near here! Sometimes we walk! The wait staff is delightful! The crowd tends to be older. The atmosphere is that of a diner! The food is simple, straight forward, and affordable!They have generous portions and a senior menu which we like. Their hamburgers are very good & the price is more affordable than many! Their raw and cooked veggies are very fresh!“

4.2 Good72 Reviews
The Crêpe Place American • $
1134 Soquel Ave, Santa Cruz

Customers` Favorites

Fresh Baked Loaf of Honey Wheat Bread
Homemade Boston Clam Chowder
Smoked Salmon Crepe
California Benedict
Zorba the Greek
Breakfast Crepe
Fruit Crepé
Pollo Verde
Crêpes

“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.“

4.1 Good99 Reviews
Venus Spirits Cocktails & Kitchen | Westside Cocktail Bar • $$
200 High Rd, Santa Cruz

Customers` Favorites

Crispy Brussels Sprouts
Grilled Chicken Sando
Frozen Paloma Libre
Wayward Burger
Smoked Salmon
Fried Chicken
Cornbread

“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!“

4 Good166 Reviews
Back Nine Grill & Bar Bar & Grill • $$
555 Hwy 17 at Pasatiempo exit, Santa Cruz

Customers` Favorites

Coconut Crusted Jumbo Prawns
Loaded Potato Skins
The Outlaw Burger
BBQ Chicken Salad
Crispy Calamari
Mushroom Risotto
Berry Cobbler
Grilled Steak
Clam Chowder
Fish & Chips

“Excellent service, quality dinning atmosphere,great tasting food. Prices are a little high, but generous portions and great tasting food balance out the cost. Definitely worth the value. Friendly and Inviting staff. They offer happy hour bar specials including their starter food menu. Plenty of seating options whether you order a well drink or a cup of coffee, the setting is very comfortable.“

4.1 Good75 Reviews

19
Süda

Süda American • $$
3910 Portola Dr, Santa Cruz

Customers` Favorites

Burrata Salad and Steak on the Side
Crème Brûlée French Toast
Creme Brulee French Toast
Sweet Potato Fries
Baja Snapper Tacos
Cauliflower Wings
Crispy Fish Tacos
Grass Fed Burger
Eggs Benedict
Bavette Steak

“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.“

4 Good142 Reviews
Hindquarter Bar & Grille Bar & Grill • $$
303 Soquel Ave, Santa Cruz

Customers` Favorites

Calamari Steak Piccata
Shrimp Alfredo Pasta
French Onion Soup
Coconut Prawns
Baby Back Ribs
Steak Sandwich
Fish and Chips
Margarita Steak
Cheeseburger
Steak Salad

“Went last Wednesday night and had exceptional service from Tray. Delicious Calamari Steak dinner was ordered by our host and he ate every delicious morsel. Loved the French Onion soup that was delicious. Had the blackened salmon and a Caesar salad, so perfect! Ordered a slice of key lime pie that was to die for. Going there again tonight it was that lovely of an experience.Parking: We arrived at 6:30...3 open spots.Kid-friendliness: Saw a younger family celebrating a birthday. Kids were happy to be there.Wheelchair accessibility: We had no problems with parking or access.“

4.1 Good62 Reviews

21
Bantam

Bantam American • $$
1010 Fair Ave, Santa Cruz

Customers` Favorites

Fried Chicken Breast
Pickled Cauliflower
Sopressata Pizza
Margarita Pizza
Marinara Pizza
Pepperoni Pizza
Caesar Salad
Napoli Pizza
Sausage

“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.“

4.1 Good61 Reviews
West End Tap and Kitchen Gastropubs • $$
334 Ingalls St d, Santa Cruz

Customers` Favorites

Popcorn Topped with Duck Fat and Basil
Chipotle Rubbed Pork Ribs
Cheese Pizza Flatbread
Wild Pacific Calamari
Steamed P E I Mussels
Burger
Salads
Olives

“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.“

4 Good77 Reviews
Gabriella Café Italian • $$
910 Cedar St, Santa Cruz

Customers` Favorites

Breakfast Taco with Salad
Brussels Sprouts
Porcini Gnocchi
Waffles
Fish

“The Open Table process was easy and simple. I received both a confirmation and reminder of the date and time of my reservation. Gabriella Cafe continues to provide excellent meals. Their menu is not static. It's always interesting to see what changes they've made to their menu. I've been here for both lunches and dinners unless than 5 times. They've never disappointed me. Try it if you've not had the opportunity.“

3.9 Good176 Reviews
Ideal Bar & Grill Bar & Grill • $$
106 Beach St, Santa Cruz

Customers` Favorites

New England Clam Chowder
Rack of Baby Back Ribs
Roasted Garlic & Brie
Clam Chowder Breadbowl
Calamari 'N' Fries
Gilroy Garlic Fries
Seafood Platter
Stuffed Salmon
Fresh Oysters
Fish & Chips

“This was the first restaurant we jumped into in Santa Cruz Ever. Partly due to it raining we went in there and we didn’t know what other restaurants would be on the board walk. The food was great. Sea bass, was amazing. The clam chowder was darn good, the strawberry milk shakes were delightful. The service was a bit slow but they were super busy. Our server was very nice. The atmosphere was loud and fun but now overly noisy. Being able to see the beach from inside is a very nice experience.“

3.9 Good159 Reviews
FireFish Grill Seafood • $$
25 Municipal Wharf, Santa Cruz

Customers` Favorites

Oysters on the Half Shell
Parmesan Crusted Chicken
The New Fish and Chips
Clam Chowder Bread Bowl
Clam Chowder Bowl
Firefish Grill
Fried Calamari
Fried Shrimp
Shrimp Salad
Fish N Chips

“Firefish Grill, located on the Santa Cruz Wharf, offers delightful seafood dishes. The teriyaki salmon with vegetables is particularly delicious, showcasing fresh flavors and perfect grilling. An excellent choice for seafood lovers seeking a satisfying dining experience by the sea.“

3.9 Good88 Reviews
Cafe El Palomar Mexican • $
2222 E Cliff Dr STE 100, Santa Cruz

Customers` Favorites

Nachos with Beef
Chilaquiles Rojos
Chips and Salsa
Rice or Beans
Chimichanga
Quesadilla
Tortillas
Guacamole
Fajitas

“Had a business lunch here with about 8 colleagues. We waited a long time for a table, but once we were seated the food came out fast and everyone enjoyed their meal. The chips and salsa were excellent, some of the best I've had. Great location and nice view.“

3.9 Good70 Reviews
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