New American Restaurants in Santa Cruz, CA

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
Crispy Chicken Cucumber Salad
Chile Verde and Pulled Pork
Quesabirrias Lite Toppings
French Toast and Berries
Salmon Club Sandwich
Birria with Consome
Evarista's Pancake
Regular Benedict

“Fantastic first time to this family owned spot. Sat on patio while the music played inside on a great Sunday Morning. The service was just as great as the homemade food. Extraordinary. We will go again our first time there coming from up north“

4.7 Superb106 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 Superb67 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
BAD ANIMAL New 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
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

“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.“

4 Good140 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
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
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

9
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

10
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
Olives

“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.“

4.2 Good60 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
Crow's Nest Restaurant American • $$
2218 E Cliff Dr, Santa Cruz

Customers` Favorites

Brioche French Toast with Strawberries and Vanilla Syrup
Clam Chowder or Soup of the Day
Alder Smoked Prime Rib of Beef
Our Award-Winning Calamari
Crow's Nest Caesar Salad
Eggs Benedict Crab Cakes
Crow's Nest Cheesecake
Calamari Appetizer
Crabcake Benedict
Seafood Risotto

“Went in close to closing time. Marcy was amazing. She didn't tru and rush through our visit. She was so pleasant and knowledgeable about everything! We will definitely come back and probably request her . The food was outstanding and the salad bar was fresh and well stocked. Definitely on one of my Favorite places to eat!!“

3.8 Good201 Reviews
Solaire Restaurant + Bar American • $$
611 Ocean St, Santa Cruz

Customers` Favorites

Bacon Ham or Brisket
Solaire Breakfast
Burger and Fries
Cinnamon Toast
Bailey

“My wife and I went to Solaire for a dinner date. Our waitress, Shirlyn, was on point. The food was amazing. I ordered the Samurai Beef Tenderloin and could have licked the plate. The tenderloin was cooked perfectly and melted in my mouth. Broccolini, baby potatoes and shitakes were fresh, tender and perfectly seasoned. The new chef has upped the food game for Santa Cruz.“

3.9 Good50 Reviews
Avanti Restaurant American • $$$
1917 Mission St, Santa Cruz

Customers` Favorites

Seafood Linguine Puttanesca
Dinosaur Kale Salad
Daily Fish Special
Braised Short Rib
Chocolate Mousse
Potato Gnocchi
Caesar Salad
Fried Cheese
Focaccia

“Excellent food, amazing service. The duck served three ways was the light bulb and the accompanying salad was the perfect counter to the richness of the duck. The fried chicken as always was amazing with a wonderful stack of fluffy potatoes.The only challenge is parking, however, the service from walking in the door through the entire meal will make you come back just to say hi“

3.8 Good51 Reviews
Johnny's Harborside Seafood • $$
493 Lake Ave, Santa Cruz

Customers` Favorites

Fried Calamari
Fish & Chips
Clam Chowder
Fresh Catch
Fish Tacos
Fresh Fish
Very Fresh
Cioppino
Steak
Fries

“The most recommended: seared black cod. The seared black cod I had was nothing short of spectacular. Cod remained wonderfully moist and flaky. Each bite melted in my mouth, releasing layers of subtle, buttery flavors that cod is renowned for. Accompanying the black cod was a serving of polenta, which was a delightful new experience for me. The polenta was incredibly soft and creamy, with bits of corn kernels that intriguingly resembled the texture of fish roe. Its gentle, comforting flavor balanced beautifully with the fish. Alongside, the spinach was prepared to juicy perfection, maintaining a vibrant green color and a fresh, slightly earthy taste that paired excellently with the rest of the dish. This combination not only highlighted the seafood's freshness but also brought a satisfying richness to the meal.“

3.7 Good129 Reviews
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