TOP 30 Best Casual meal spots in Santa Cruz, California

Los Primos Taqueria is a vibrant and authentic Mexican restaurant located in the heart of Santa Cruz, California. Situated at 425 Barson Street, this popular eatery is known for its delicious and traditional Mexican cuisine. From savory tacos to mouthwatering burritos, every dish is made with the freshest ingredients and bursting with flavor. The cozy atmosphere and friendly staff make Los Primos Taqueria the perfect spot for a casual meal with friends or a family dinner. Come experience a taste of Mexico at Los Primos Taqueria!

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.

Toya Sushi is a popular Japanese restaurant located at 1306 Mission Street in Santa Cruz, California. Known for its fresh and delicious sushi dishes, Toya Sushi offers a wide variety of traditional and modern sushi options to satisfy any palate. The restaurant's cozy and welcoming atmosphere makes it the perfect spot for a casual meal or a special night out. Whether you're a sushi aficionado or trying it for the first time, Toya Sushi is sure to impress with its expertly crafted dishes and friendly service. Come visit us and experience the best of Japanese cuisine in Santa Cruz!

Jeffery's is a charming restaurant located at 2050 Soquel Avenue in Santa Cruz, California. Known for its delicious and diverse menu offerings, Jeffery's is a popular dining destination for locals and visitors alike. The cozy atmosphere and friendly staff make it the perfect spot for a casual meal or special occasion. Whether you're craving a hearty breakfast, a fresh salad, or a savory dinner entree, Jeffery's has something to satisfy every palate. Stop by and experience the mouthwatering flavors that have made Jeffery's a beloved institution in Santa Cruz.

Real Thai Kitchen is a popular restaurant located at 1632 Seabright Avenue in Santa Cruz, California. This authentic Thai eatery offers a wide range of delicious and traditional Thai dishes, cooked with fresh ingredients and bold flavors. Whether you're craving spicy curries, flavorful stir-fries, or refreshing salads, Real Thai Kitchen has something for everyone. The cozy atmosphere and friendly staff make it the perfect spot for a casual meal or a special occasion. Come experience the true taste of Thailand at Real Thai Kitchen.

Sala Thai is a charming restaurant located at 353 Soquel Avenue in Santa Cruz, California. Specializing in authentic Thai cuisine, Sala Thai offers a delightful dining experience with a menu that features a variety of flavorful dishes made with traditional Thai ingredients and cooking techniques. The cozy atmosphere and friendly staff make Sala Thai a popular choice for locals and visitors alike looking to enjoy delicious and satisfying Thai dishes in Santa Cruz. Whether you're craving spicy curries, fragrant stir-fries, or refreshing salads, Sala Thai has something for everyone to enjoy. Come visit Sala Thai and treat your taste buds to a culinary journey through the vibrant flavors of Thailand.

Rosie McCann's Irish Pub & Restaurant is a lively establishment located at 1220 Pacific Avenue in Santa Cruz, California. This charming pub offers a cozy and welcoming atmosphere where guests can enjoy a wide selection of Irish beers, whiskeys, and cocktails. The menu features delicious traditional Irish dishes such as shepherd's pie, fish and chips, and corned beef and cabbage. Live music and entertainment are often featured, adding to the vibrant and festive ambiance. Whether you're looking for a casual spot to grab a drink or a delicious meal, Rosie McCann's is the perfect destination for a taste of Ireland in the heart of Santa Cruz.

Lulus Midtown is a charming cafe, food, and store located in the heart of Santa Cruz, California. Situated at 925 Soquel Avenue, this cozy establishment offers a unique blend of delicious food, specialty coffee, and a curated selection of gifts and goods. Whether you're looking for a relaxing spot to enjoy a cup of coffee, a tasty meal, or a one-of-a-kind shopping experience, Lulus Midtown has something for everyone. Come visit us and experience the warm and inviting atmosphere that makes Lulus Midtown a favorite destination in Santa Cruz.

La Esquina is a vibrant and inviting restaurant located at 551 North Santa Cruz Avenue in Los Gatos, California. Known for its delicious and authentic Mexican cuisine, La Esquina offers a menu filled with traditional dishes and modern twists. The cozy atmosphere and friendly staff make it the perfect spot for a casual meal with friends or a romantic date night. Whether you're craving tacos, enchiladas, or fresh guacamole, La Esquina has something to satisfy every palate. Come and experience the flavors of Mexico at this charming restaurant in the heart of Los Gatos.

El Jardin Restaurant is a charming dining establishment located at 655 Capitola Road in Santa Cruz, California. This restaurant offers a delightful culinary experience with a menu filled with delicious Mexican-inspired dishes. The cozy atmosphere and friendly staff make it the perfect spot for a casual meal or a special celebration. Whether you're craving traditional tacos, flavorful enchiladas, or refreshing margaritas, El Jardin Restaurant has something for everyone. Come and enjoy a taste of Mexico right here in the heart of Santa Cruz.

May's Sushi Bar & Grill is a popular dining destination located on Front Street in Santa Cruz, California. Offering a wide variety of fresh and delicious sushi and grill dishes, this restaurant is known for its high-quality ingredients and expertly crafted dishes. Whether you're in the mood for traditional sushi rolls, sashimi, or grilled entrees, May's Sushi Bar & Grill has something for everyone. The cozy and inviting atmosphere makes it the perfect spot for a casual meal or a special night out. Come visit us at 435 Front Street and experience the best of Japanese cuisine in Santa Cruz.

Sesame Korean Grill is a popular restaurant located at 435 Front Street in Santa Cruz, California. This vibrant eatery offers a delicious array of traditional Korean dishes with a modern twist. From sizzling bulgogi to flavorful bibimbap, each dish is expertly prepared and bursting with authentic flavors. The cozy atmosphere and friendly staff make Sesame Korean Grill a perfect spot for a casual meal or a special night out. Come and experience the taste of Korea right here in the heart of Santa Cruz!

Last Chance Restaurant, located at 3400 De La Cruz Boulevard in Santa Clara, California, is a popular spot for delicious food and meal takeaways. They offer a variety of mouthwatering options such as freshly picked mushrooms, pepperoni, green peppers, onions, black olives, Italian sausage, Italian dry salami, and more. From classic pizzas to crispy appetizers like zucchini sticks and jalapeno poppers, Last Chance Restaurant has something for everyone. Don't miss out on their famous Hawaiian Deluxe Pizza for a truly local experience. With convenient curbside pickup and a variety of payment options, including credit cards, Last Chance Restaurant makes it easy to enjoy their tasty offerings. Visit them today and see why they are a favorite in the Santa Clara community!

Ideal Bar & Grill is a vibrant and laid-back establishment located in the heart of Santa Cruz, California. Situated at 106 Beach Street, this popular spot offers a mix of delicious food, refreshing drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere. Whether you're looking to grab a casual bite to eat, enjoy a cold beer with friends, or savor a tasty meal overlooking the stunning beach views, Ideal Bar & Grill has something for everyone. With its prime location and diverse menu options, it's the perfect destination for locals and tourists alike. Come and experience the ideal blend of bar, food, and restaurant at Ideal Bar & Grill.

Andale Mexican Kitchen and Bar Patio is a vibrant and lively restaurant located in the heart of Los Gatos, California. Known for its authentic Mexican cuisine and festive atmosphere, this establishment offers a wide variety of dishes that are sure to satisfy any craving. From traditional favorites like tacos and enchiladas to modern twists on classic recipes, Andale Mexican Kitchen and Bar Patio has something for everyone. The outdoor patio provides a perfect setting for enjoying a meal with friends or family, while the indoor dining area offers a cozy and inviting ambiance. Whether you're looking for a casual lunch spot or a lively evening out, Andale Mexican Kitchen and Bar Patio is the perfect destination for delicious food and good times.

Five Guys is a popular fast-casual restaurant located at 1101 Pacific Avenue in Santa Cruz, California. Known for their delicious burgers, fries, and milkshakes, Five Guys offers a wide variety of customizable options to satisfy any craving. With a focus on fresh ingredients and generous portions, this institution is a favorite spot for locals and visitors alike looking for a satisfying meal on the go. Whether you're in the mood for a classic cheeseburger or a loaded hot dog, Five Guys has something for everyone. So stop by and experience the mouthwatering flavors of Five Guys today!

Olitas Cantina & Grille is a vibrant bar and restaurant located at 49 Municipal Wharf in Santa Cruz, California. This lively establishment offers a diverse menu of delicious food and refreshing drinks, all served with a stunning view of the ocean. Whether you're looking for a casual meal with friends or a fun night out, Olitas Cantina & Grille has something for everyone. Come enjoy the laid-back atmosphere, tasty cocktails, and mouthwatering dishes at this popular Santa Cruz spot.

University Center Bistro is a cozy and inviting restaurant located on College Nine Road in Santa Cruz, California. This charming bistro offers a wide variety of delicious and freshly prepared dishes, perfect for a quick bite or a leisurely meal. With a casual and laid-back atmosphere, University Center Bistro is the ideal spot for students, faculty, and locals to gather and enjoy a tasty meal together. Whether you're looking for a hearty breakfast, a satisfying lunch, or a flavorful dinner, this bistro has something for everyone. Come and experience the warm hospitality and delectable cuisine at University Center Bistro.

The Grille at DeLaveaga is a charming bar and restaurant located at 401 Upper Park Road in Santa Cruz, California. Offering a relaxed and inviting atmosphere, this institution is the perfect spot to unwind with friends or enjoy a delicious meal with family. With a diverse menu featuring mouth-watering dishes and a wide selection of drinks, The Grille at DeLaveaga is sure to satisfy any craving. Whether you're looking for a casual lunch, a romantic dinner, or a fun night out, this establishment has something for everyone. Come and experience the warm hospitality and delectable cuisine that The Grille at DeLaveaga has to offer.

Coasters Bar & Grill is a top destination in Santa Cruz, California for those looking for tasty food, refreshing drinks, and a fun atmosphere. Located at 115 Cliff Street, this establishment offers an outdoor dining area with ocean views and a wide selection of beers on tap. During Spring Break, Coasters Bar & Grill hosts live music on their patio, creating a lively and entertaining experience for guests. Enjoy performances by A-Cannon from 12pm-3pm and Scott Cooper & Fred Rodriguez from 5pm-8pm on select dates.

Full Steam Dumpling is a popular restaurant located in the heart of Santa Cruz, California. Known for its delicious and authentic dumplings, this establishment offers a wide variety of steamed dumplings filled with savory ingredients such as pork, chicken, and vegetables. The cozy atmosphere and friendly staff make it the perfect spot for a casual meal or a quick bite to eat. Whether you're a dumpling enthusiast or just looking to try something new, Full Steam Dumpling is sure to satisfy your taste buds. Come visit us at 1001 Center Street and experience the mouth-watering flavors for yourself!

Welcome to Hot Dog on a Stick, your go-to destination for delicious, freshly made meals in the heart of Santa Cruz! Conveniently located at 400 Beach Street, just a stone's throw from the beautiful California coastline, our vibrant and welcoming eatery is the perfect spot to grab a quick bite or enjoy a relaxed meal with friends and family. At Hot Dog on a Stick, we pride ourselves on serving up classic American favorites with a twist. Our menu features our iconic hot dogs on a stick, hand-dipped in our signature batter and cooked to golden perfection. Pair your meal with our refreshing hand-stomped lemonade, available in a variety of thirst-quenching flavors.

Welcome to Beach Market, your ultimate destination for delicious food and delightful experiences right by the beautiful shores of Santa Cruz! Nestled at 2210 East Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz, California, Beach Market offers a unique blend of culinary delights and breathtaking views. As a cherished part of the Santa Cruz community since the summer of 2013, we invite you to indulge in our diverse menu featuring wood-fired pizza, gourmet sandwiches, fresh salads, and delectable soft-serve ice cream. Complement your meal with our selection of beer, wine, and refreshing beverages. Located right where the Harbor meets the sea, Beach Market provides stunning vistas of the Santa Cruz Harbor and the iconic Walton Lighthouse. Whether you're enjoying a casual meal or shopping in our market, you'll find a unique selection of fine gifts, including beach supplies, toys, home decor, bath and body products, jewelry, and exclusive Crow's Nest apparel.

Gitane is a trendy clothing store located in Menlo Park, California. Situated at 855 Santa Cruz Avenue, this stylish boutique offers a curated selection of fashion-forward pieces for men and women. From chic dresses and cozy sweaters to on-trend accessories and footwear, Gitane has everything you need to elevate your wardrobe. Whether you're looking for a casual everyday outfit or a show-stopping ensemble for a special occasion, Gitane has you covered. Shop the latest styles and trends at this must-visit store in the heart of Menlo Park.

Phillys is a cozy and inviting restaurant located at 920 Pacific Avenue in Santa Cruz, California. Known for their delicious and authentic Philly cheesesteaks, this eatery offers a taste of Philadelphia right in the heart of California. With a casual atmosphere and friendly staff, Phillys is the perfect spot to enjoy a satisfying meal with friends and family. Whether you're craving a classic cheesesteak or looking to try one of their other mouth-watering menu items, Phillys is sure to leave you feeling satisfied and coming back for more.

Round Table Pizza is a popular restaurant located in the heart of Santa Cruz, California. Known for its delicious pizzas and casual dining atmosphere, Round Table Pizza offers a wide variety of toppings to choose from, as well as appetizers, salads, and other classic Italian dishes. The restaurant is perfect for families, friends, and pizza lovers looking for a cozy spot to enjoy a meal together. With friendly staff and a welcoming ambiance, Round Table Pizza is a must-visit destination for those craving a satisfying and tasty dining experience.

Sunset Restaurant is a charming dining establishment located at One Chaminade Lane in Santa Cruz, California. As you step inside, you are greeted with stunning views of the sunset over the Pacific Ocean. The restaurant offers a diverse menu of delicious dishes, ranging from fresh seafood to mouth-watering steaks. The ambiance is warm and inviting, making it the perfect spot for a romantic dinner or a casual meal with friends. Come and experience the culinary delights at Sunset Restaurant and indulge in a dining experience like no other.

Firehouse Pizza is a cozy and inviting restaurant located at 1314 Ocean Street in Santa Cruz, California. Specializing in delicious, handcrafted pizzas, this eatery is a popular choice for locals and visitors alike. With a menu full of mouth-watering options, including traditional favorites and unique creations, Firehouse Pizza is sure to satisfy any pizza lover's cravings. The welcoming atmosphere and friendly staff make it the perfect spot for a casual meal with friends or family. Whether you're in the mood for a classic pepperoni pizza or feeling adventurous with a specialty pie, Firehouse Pizza has something for everyone to enjoy. Come experience the tasty flavors and warm hospitality at this beloved Santa Cruz institution.

Located at 611 Ocean Street in Santa Cruz, California, Solaire Restaurant Bar offers a modern American dining experience in a chic and inviting atmosphere. The menu features locally sourced, sustainable ingredients with a unique blend of East Asian flavors, all presented in a nature-inspired setting. Guests can enjoy the outdoor patio with views of the sparkling pool and surrounding redwood trees, creating a serene and relaxing dining experience. For those looking to elevate their poolside experience, cabana reservations are available for guaranteed lounge seating and a touch of shade.

Welcome to Aunt Nettie's Kitchen, your cozy culinary haven in the heart of Santa Cruz! Located at 2100 Delaware Avenue, Aunt Nettie's Kitchen is a charming eatery that offers a delightful array of homemade dishes crafted with love and the freshest local ingredients. Our menu celebrates the rich flavors of traditional comfort food, with a modern twist that will tantalize your taste buds. Whether you're in the mood for a hearty breakfast, a satisfying lunch, or a delectable dinner, Aunt Nettie's Kitchen is the perfect spot to enjoy a warm, inviting atmosphere and friendly service. Join us for a meal that feels like home, and experience the essence of heartfelt cooking in every bite. We look forward to welcoming you to our kitchen and becoming your go-to spot for delicious food in Santa Cruz!