TOP 10 Best unique restaurants in Santa Cruz, California

Beachside Snacks is a charming food establishment located at 400 Beach Street in Santa Cruz, California. This cozy spot offers a variety of delicious snacks and meals for takeout or dine-in. Whether you're craving a quick bite to eat while enjoying the beach or looking for a tasty meal to take home, Beachside Snacks has you covered. From fresh salads and sandwiches to mouthwatering burgers and fries, there's something for everyone at this beloved local eatery. Come visit Beachside Snacks and satisfy your hunger with their delectable offerings.

Far West Fungi is a unique institution located in Santa Cruz, California, United States, at 224 Laurel Street. This establishment is a haven for mushroom enthusiasts and food lovers alike, offering a wide selection of fresh and exotic fungi. From shiitake to oyster mushrooms, Far West Fungi provides a variety of options for customers to explore and enjoy. In addition to their fresh produce, Far West Fungi also operates as a restaurant, serving up delicious dishes featuring their signature mushrooms. Visitors can indulge in mushroom tacos, soups, and other delectable creations that showcase the versatility and flavor of these fungi.

Munch is a cozy and inviting cafe located at 717 Pacific Avenue in Santa Cruz, California. This unique institution offers a diverse menu of delicious food and beverages, perfect for a quick bite or a leisurely meal. In addition to the cafe, Munch also features a charming store where you can find a variety of locally sourced goods and gifts. Whether you're looking for a tasty meal, a refreshing drink, or a special souvenir, Munch has something for everyone. Visit us today and experience the warm and welcoming atmosphere of this beloved Santa Cruz institution.

Lulu's On Mission is a charming cafe and food store located in the heart of Santa Cruz, California. Situated at 1723 Mission Street, this cozy establishment offers a wide variety of delicious food and drinks for patrons to enjoy. From freshly brewed coffee and baked goods to gourmet sandwiches and salads, Lulu's On Mission has something for everyone. Whether you're looking for a quick bite to eat or a relaxing place to grab a cup of coffee, this welcoming institution is the perfect spot to satisfy your cravings. Come visit Lulu's On Mission and experience a taste of Santa Cruz hospitality.

Kelly's French Bakery is a hidden gem in the heart of Santa Cruz, California. Located at 402 Ingalls Street, this unique establishment offers a perfect blend of traditional French baking techniques and a modern speakeasy atmosphere. As a wholesale bakery, Kelly's provides delicious pastries, breads, and desserts to local cafes, restaurants, and hotels. But it's not just a bakery - it's also a cozy store where customers can come in and enjoy a cup of coffee while browsing through the mouth-watering selection of treats.

Mad Yolks is a vibrant and eclectic restaurant located at 1411 Pacific Avenue in the heart of Santa Cruz, California. Specializing in all things egg-related, this unique eatery offers a menu filled with creative and mouth-watering dishes that are sure to satisfy any cravings. From classic breakfast options to innovative twists on traditional favorites, Mad Yolks is the perfect spot to indulge in delicious and satisfying meals. With a lively atmosphere and friendly staff, a visit to Mad Yolks is guaranteed to leave you feeling full and happy.

Honey B Market is a charming and cozy restaurant located at 1005 Cedar Street in Santa Cruz, California. This beloved institution offers a wide variety of delicious food options, including fresh salads, hearty sandwiches, and mouth-watering entrees. With a focus on using locally sourced ingredients, Honey B Market prides itself on serving high-quality, flavorful dishes that will satisfy any craving. Whether you're looking for a quick lunch or a leisurely dinner, this restaurant is the perfect spot to enjoy a delicious meal in a welcoming atmosphere.

Left Bank is a charming and sophisticated institution located in the heart of Menlo Park, California. Situated at 635 Santa Cruz Avenue, this establishment offers a unique blend of bar, food, and restaurant experiences. With a focus on French cuisine and a curated selection of wines, Left Bank provides a cozy and inviting atmosphere for guests to enjoy a delicious meal or unwind with a drink. Whether you're looking for a casual dinner with friends or a romantic date night, Left Bank is the perfect spot to indulge in exquisite food and drinks.

Camper is a cozy and inviting restaurant located at 898 Santa Cruz Avenue in Menlo Park, California. Known for its delicious and innovative cuisine, Camper offers a unique dining experience that combines traditional and modern flavors. The restaurant's menu features a variety of dishes made with locally sourced ingredients, creating a farm-to-table dining experience. Whether you're looking for a casual meal with friends or a special night out, Camper is the perfect spot to enjoy exceptional food in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

The Bywater is a cozy and inviting bar and restaurant located at 532 North Santa Cruz Avenue in Los Gatos, California. Offering a unique blend of Southern comfort food and craft cocktails, The Bywater is the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy a delicious meal or drinks with friends and family. With its warm and welcoming atmosphere, friendly staff, and mouthwatering menu, The Bywater is a must-visit destination for those looking for a taste of the South in the heart of California.

Coup De Thai is a vibrant and authentic Thai restaurant located in the heart of Los Gatos, California. Situated at 137 North Santa Cruz Avenue, this establishment offers a unique and flavorful dining experience for all lovers of Thai cuisine. From traditional dishes to modern twists, Coup De Thai prides itself on using fresh ingredients and bold spices to create mouthwatering dishes that will transport you to the streets of Thailand. Whether you're in the mood for spicy curries, fragrant stir-fries, or crispy spring rolls, Coup De Thai has something for everyone. Come and indulge in the exotic flavors of Thailand at this cozy and inviting restaurant.

Orens Hummus is a popular restaurant located at 1 North Santa Cruz Avenue in Los Gatos, California. Known for its delicious and authentic Middle Eastern cuisine, Orens Hummus offers a wide variety of dishes featuring their signature hummus made from scratch daily. The cozy and welcoming atmosphere makes it a perfect spot for a casual meal with friends or family. Whether you're craving falafel, shawarma, or a fresh salad, Orens Hummus has something for everyone to enjoy. Come experience the flavors of the Mediterranean at this charming eatery in the heart of Los Gatos.

Located at 17533 Santa Cruz Highway in Los Gatos, California, The Cats is a renowned institution offering a unique blend of BBQ, craft cocktails, and live music. With a rich history dating back 128 years, this beloved spot has recently been relaunched under new ownership. Whether you're looking to enjoy a delicious meal with loved ones, catch up with friends over drinks, or celebrate a special occasion, The Cats provides the perfect atmosphere for all occasions. Our talented chefs specialize in slow-cooked BBQ meats, including juicy pulled pork, chicken, beef ribs, and pork ribs, all paired with our signature BBQ sauces. Don't forget to try our smoked Wagyu paired with a house specialty herb sauce for a truly unforgettable dining experience. Join us at The Cats for the best BBQ, drinks, and live entertainment in the Bay Area and Santa Cruz communities. And who knows, you might even encounter a ghost or two during your visit!

The Lexington House is a charming restaurant located at 40 North Santa Cruz Avenue in Los Gatos, California. Known for its cozy atmosphere and delicious food, this institution offers a unique dining experience for locals and visitors alike. With a focus on using fresh, locally sourced ingredients, The Lexington House serves up a menu of creative and flavorful dishes that are sure to satisfy any palate. Whether you're looking for a casual brunch spot or a romantic dinner destination, The Lexington House is the perfect place to enjoy a memorable meal in the heart of Los Gatos.

Golden Triangle Cuisine is a Far East Asian Fusion restaurant located at 217 North Santa Cruz Avenue in Los Gatos, California. Guests can enjoy a unique dining experience with the option to bring their own beers and wines, with no corkage fee. Please note that hard alcohol and liquor are not allowed on the premises. Contact the restaurant at 408-402-5092 for reservations or more information.

The Pastaria & Market is a charming Italian restaurant and market located in the heart of Los Gatos, California. Situated at 27 North Santa Cruz Avenue, this institution offers a unique dining experience with a focus on fresh, authentic Italian cuisine. From handmade pastas to delicious sauces and artisanal cheeses, guests can enjoy a taste of Italy right in their own backyard. The cozy atmosphere and friendly staff make The Pastaria & Market a favorite spot for locals and visitors alike. Whether you're looking for a casual meal or a special night out, this restaurant is sure to satisfy your cravings for delicious Italian food.

PintxoPote is a vibrant and authentic Spanish bar and restaurant located in the heart of Los Gatos, California. Known for its delicious pintxos (small snacks served on bread) and traditional Spanish cuisine, PintxoPote offers a unique dining experience for those looking to indulge in the flavors of Spain. With a cozy and inviting atmosphere, guests can enjoy a wide selection of tapas, wines, and cocktails while socializing with friends and family. Whether you're craving a taste of Spain or simply looking for a fun night out, PintxoPote is the perfect destination for a memorable dining experience.

Hula's Island Grill is a vibrant and tropical restaurant located in Santa Cruz, California. Situated at 221 Cathcart Street, this establishment offers a unique dining experience inspired by the flavors of the Hawaiian Islands. Guests can enjoy a diverse menu featuring traditional dishes such as poke bowls, kalua pork, and fresh seafood, all served in a casual and welcoming atmosphere. The colorful decor and friendly staff create a laid-back island vibe, making Hula's Island Grill the perfect spot to relax and enjoy delicious Hawaiian cuisine in the heart of Santa Cruz.

Bantam is a charming restaurant located at 1010 Fair Avenue in Santa Cruz, California. Known for its delicious and innovative food offerings, Bantam prides itself on using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients to create mouthwatering dishes. Whether you're looking for a casual lunch spot or a cozy dinner destination, Bantam is the perfect place to satisfy your cravings. With a welcoming atmosphere and friendly staff, you'll feel right at home at this beloved Santa Cruz institution.

West End Tap and Kitchen is a vibrant and welcoming establishment located in Santa Cruz, California. Situated at 334 Ingalls Street, this bar and restaurant offers a cozy and inviting atmosphere perfect for enjoying a delicious meal or relaxing with friends over drinks. With a diverse menu featuring a variety of tasty dishes and an extensive selection of craft beers on tap, West End Tap and Kitchen is a go-to spot for locals and visitors alike. Whether you're looking for a casual dinner, a lively night out, or a place to catch the game, this establishment has something for everyone. Come and experience the laid-back charm and delicious offerings of West End Tap and Kitchen today.

Located on the Santa Cruz Wharf in California, FireFish Grill offers a unique dining experience with a focus on fresh seafood, steaks, and homemade pasta dishes. With a mesquite charcoal broiler in our exhibition kitchen, guests can enjoy watching their meals being prepared right before their eyes. Our full bar serves specialty drinks, beer, and wine to complement your meal. Enjoy stunning ocean views from every seat in the house while dining at FireFish Grill, which has been a Santa Cruz staple for over 30 years. Indulge in our skewered charbroiled seafood platter, charbroiled halibut with Beurre Blanc caper sauce, or our hearty seafood stew. For a lighter option, try our charbroiled salmon or seared scallops in a beurre blanc sauce. Don't miss out on our famous clam chowder, made with a creamy base and a special blend of seasonings.

Las Palmas Taco Bar is a vibrant Mexican restaurant located at 55 Front Street in the heart of Santa Cruz, California. Known for its delicious tacos and flavorful dishes, this lively taco bar offers a fun and casual dining experience for locals and visitors alike. With a menu featuring a variety of traditional and innovative taco options, as well as refreshing margaritas and cocktails, Las Palmas Taco Bar is the perfect spot to enjoy a tasty meal with friends and family. Whether you're craving classic carne asada tacos or want to try something new like their signature shrimp tacos, Las Palmas Taco Bar has something for everyone to enjoy. Come and experience the vibrant atmosphere and mouthwatering flavors of this beloved Santa Cruz institution.

Jack's Hamburgers is a beloved fast food restaurant located at 202 Lincoln Street in Santa Cruz, California. Known for their delicious and juicy hamburgers, this institution has been serving up mouthwatering meals for years. Whether you're craving a classic cheeseburger, a crispy chicken sandwich, or some tasty fries, Jack's Hamburgers has something for everyone. Stop by and enjoy a satisfying meal in a cozy and welcoming atmosphere.

Betty Burgers is a popular restaurant located at 505 Seabright Avenue in Santa Cruz, California. Known for their delicious burgers, this institution offers a variety of options for both meat lovers and vegetarians. The casual atmosphere and friendly staff make it a great spot for a quick bite to eat or a relaxed meal with friends and family. With its convenient location near the beach, Betty Burgers is the perfect place to grab a tasty burger before or after a day of fun in the sun. Whether you're a local or just passing through, be sure to stop by Betty Burgers for a satisfying meal that will leave you coming back for more.

Makai Island Kitchen & Groggery is a unique bar and restaurant located at 49A Municipal Wharf in Santa Cruz, California. Situated on the lower decks of the wharf, this establishment offers stunning views of the ocean and sky, with sea lions lounging nearby and surfers catching waves at Steamer Lane. Step into Makai Island Kitchen & Groggery and you will be transported into a tropical oasis, with tiki decor and a laid-back island vibe. Enjoy delicious food and refreshing drinks while taking in the beautiful surroundings. Whether you're looking for a relaxing meal with a view or a fun night out with friends, Makai Island Kitchen & Groggery is the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy the Santa Cruz waterfront.

The Habit Burger Grill is a popular fast-casual restaurant located at 1400 Ocean Street in Santa Cruz, California. Known for their delicious charbroiled burgers, fresh salads, and hand-cut fries, The Habit is a favorite spot for locals and visitors alike. With a welcoming atmosphere and friendly staff, this institution offers a wide variety of menu options to satisfy any craving. Whether you're in the mood for a classic cheeseburger or a healthy grilled chicken salad, The Habit Burger Grill has something for everyone. Come enjoy a tasty meal in a relaxed setting at this must-visit restaurant in Santa Cruz.

Yan Flower is a cozy and inviting restaurant located at 617 Pacific Avenue in Santa Cruz, California. Specializing in authentic Chinese cuisine, Yan Flower offers a diverse menu featuring traditional dishes made with fresh ingredients and bold flavors. Whether you're craving classic favorites like General Tso's chicken or looking to try something new like Szechuan beef, Yan Flower has something for everyone. The restaurant's warm atmosphere and attentive service make it the perfect spot for a casual meal with friends or a special night out with loved ones. Come experience the delicious flavors of Yan Flower today!

Arslans Turkish Street Food is a must-visit spot in Santa Cruz, California. Founded by Marissa and Yunus, this restaurant offers the best street food options in the area. From mouthwatering döner wraps to delicious falafel plates, there is something for everyone to enjoy. The traditional Turkish dishes are made with fresh ingredients and packed with flavor. Customers rave about the quality and taste of the food, making it a popular choice for locals and visitors alike. Don't miss out on the opportunity to try the Beef & Lamb Döner Wrap or the Chicken Döner Plate, paired perfectly with their homemade sauces. Treat yourself to a taste of Turkey at Arslans Turkish Street Food on Walnut Avenue.

Taquería Jalapeños & Pupusería is a vibrant and authentic Mexican and Salvadoran restaurant located at 107 Leonard Street in Santa Cruz, California. Our cozy eatery offers a diverse menu of delicious tacos, burritos, pupusas, and other traditional dishes that are bursting with flavor. Whether you're craving spicy jalapeños or savory pupusas, our skilled chefs use fresh ingredients and traditional recipes to create mouthwatering dishes that will satisfy your taste buds. Come and experience the warm hospitality and rich culinary heritage of Mexico and El Salvador at Taquería Jalapeños & Pupusería.

Johnny's Harborside is a charming restaurant located at 493 Lake Avenue in the beautiful coastal city of Santa Cruz, California. Serving up delicious seafood dishes and American classics, this waterfront eatery offers a stunning view of the harbor that will leave you breathless. Whether you're looking to enjoy a romantic dinner for two or a casual lunch with friends, Johnny's Harborside is the perfect spot to indulge in fresh, flavorful cuisine. Come experience the warm hospitality and mouthwatering meals that have made Johnny's Harborside a beloved dining destination in Santa Cruz.