The 30 Best Local eats in Santa Cruz, California

Java Junction is a cozy cafe and food store located at 519 Seabright Avenue in Santa Cruz, California. This charming establishment is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike to grab a delicious cup of coffee, a tasty snack, or to shop for unique food items. With a welcoming atmosphere and friendly staff, Java Junction is the perfect place to relax and enjoy a hot beverage or grab a quick bite to eat. Whether you're looking for a caffeine fix or a place to unwind, Java Junction has something for everyone.

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.

Pacific Point Market & Cafe is a charming and bustling establishment located at 302 Pacific Avenue in the heart of Santa Cruz, California. This unique institution offers a delightful blend of a cafe, convenience store, and food store all under one roof. From freshly brewed coffee and delicious pastries to a variety of snacks, groceries, and local products, Pacific Point Market & Cafe has something for everyone. Whether you're looking for a quick bite to eat, a place to relax and enjoy a cup of coffee, or simply need to pick up some essentials, this welcoming spot is sure to satisfy your needs. Come visit us and experience the vibrant atmosphere and friendly service that Pacific Point Market & Cafe has to offer.

Lulu Carpenter's Westside is a charming cafe located at 930 Almar Avenue in Santa Cruz, California. This cozy spot is a favorite among locals and visitors alike, offering a warm and inviting atmosphere to enjoy delicious food and drinks. With a menu featuring a variety of coffee drinks, pastries, sandwiches, and salads, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you're looking for a quick bite to eat or a relaxing place to catch up with friends, Lulu Carpenter's Westside is the perfect spot to sit back and unwind. Visit us today for a delightful dining experience in the heart of Santa Cruz.

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.

Staff of Life is a vibrant and bustling institution located at 1266 Soquel Avenue in Santa Cruz, California. This multifaceted establishment serves as a cafe, grocery store, health food store, and restaurant all rolled into one. With a wide selection of organic and locally sourced products, customers can find everything they need to nourish their bodies and souls. From freshly baked bread and organic produce to gourmet meals and health supplements, Staff of Life is a one-stop shop for all things food and wellness. Whether you're looking for a quick bite to eat, stocking up on groceries, or seeking out natural remedies, this institution has got you covered. Come visit Staff of Life and experience the best that Santa Cruz has to offer in terms of healthy and delicious options.

Castelli’s Caffe & Deli is a charming cafe and deli located at 236 Santa Cruz Avenue in the beautiful coastal town of Seacliff, California. This cozy establishment offers a wide variety of delicious food and beverages, including freshly brewed coffee, homemade sandwiches, salads, and other delectable treats. The store also features a selection of gourmet snacks, local products, and specialty items for purchase. Whether you're looking for a quick bite to eat or a relaxing place to enjoy a meal with friends, Castelli’s Caffe & Deli is the perfect spot to satisfy your cravings in a welcoming and inviting atmosphere.

Point Market is a bustling hub for all your grocery, food, and dining needs located at 23040 East Cliff Drive in Santa Cruz, California. Our market offers a wide selection of fresh produce, pantry staples, and specialty items to help you prepare delicious meals at home. Additionally, our restaurant serves up tasty dishes made with locally sourced ingredients for a satisfying dining experience. Whether you're looking to stock up on groceries, grab a quick bite to eat, or enjoy a leisurely meal out, Point Market has you covered. Visit us today and discover why we're a favorite destination for locals and visitors alike.

Main Street Burgers is a charming restaurant located on South Santa Cruz Avenue in the heart of Los Gatos, California. Specializing in delicious, mouth-watering burgers, this institution offers a variety of options to satisfy any craving. From classic cheeseburgers to gourmet creations, Main Street Burgers prides itself on using high-quality ingredients and serving up fresh, made-to-order meals. With a cozy atmosphere and friendly staff, this restaurant is the perfect spot to grab a bite to eat with family and friends. Whether you're a local looking for a tasty meal or a visitor wanting to experience the best of California cuisine, Main Street Burgers is a must-visit destination.

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.

The Water Street Grill is a charming restaurant located at 503 Water Street in Santa Cruz, California. Known for its delicious cuisine and welcoming atmosphere, this establishment offers a diverse menu featuring a variety of fresh and locally sourced dishes. Whether you're in the mood for a juicy burger, a refreshing salad, or a decadent dessert, The Water Street Grill has something for everyone. With its friendly staff and cozy ambiance, it's the perfect spot to enjoy a meal with friends or family. Come visit The Water Street Grill and experience a taste of California's culinary delights.

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.

Riva Fish House is a renowned seafood restaurant located at 31 Municipal Wharf in Santa Cruz, California. Known for its stunning views and delicious dishes, it has been voted as the Best Restaurant and Best Seafood Restaurant in Santa Cruz. Whether you're craving fresh seafood or just want to enjoy a meal with a view, Riva Fish House has something for everyone. Come dine at this seaside haven today and experience great food, great views, and great service.

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.

Canton Restaurant, located at 900 41st Avenue in Santa Cruz, California, is a beloved Chinese restaurant that has been serving the local community for over 30 years. Founded with the goal of bringing authentic and delicious Chinese cuisine to Santa Cruz, Canton Restaurant prides itself on providing a warm and welcoming atmosphere for customers to enjoy great food and good company. Head chef and owner, Wei Jian Li, has been leading the kitchen for over three decades, creating authentic Chinese flavors that keep customers coming back for more. The menu offers a wide variety of options, from classic Chinese dishes to vegetarian and vegan options. Whether dining in the spacious and inviting dining room or opting for take-out, Canton Restaurant ensures a delightful dining experience. If you're interested in joining the team, apply for one of their open positions today.

Fonda Felix is a charming Mexican restaurant located at 402 Ingalls Street in Santa Cruz, California. Known for its authentic cuisine and warm atmosphere, this establishment offers a diverse menu of traditional dishes made with fresh ingredients and bold flavors. Whether you're craving tacos, enchiladas, or homemade guacamole, Fonda Felix has something to satisfy every palate. Come enjoy a delicious meal in a welcoming setting at this beloved local eatery.

Denny's is a popular restaurant located at 1515 Ocean Street in Santa Cruz, California, United States. Known for their delicious breakfast options, Denny's is currently offering the Original Grand Slam for just $7.99, which includes two buttermilk pancakes, eggs, sausage, and bacon. This limited-time deal is a homerun for breakfast lovers! Please note that prices and participation may vary, and the offer is only available for dine-in with no substitutions allowed.

Beach Hut Deli is a charming and cozy restaurant located at 381 Soquel Avenue in Santa Cruz, California. Known for its delicious sandwiches and laid-back beach vibe, this institution offers a unique dining experience for locals and visitors alike. With a menu featuring a variety of fresh ingredients and creative sandwich combinations, Beach Hut Deli is the perfect spot to grab a bite to eat while soaking up the California sun. Whether you're in the mood for a classic turkey and avocado sandwich or a specialty creation like the Surfin' Pig, Beach Hut Deli has something for everyone. Come enjoy a taste of the beach life at this popular Santa Cruz eatery.

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.

Ruben's Tacos is a popular Mexican restaurant located at 1815 Soquel Drive in Santa Cruz, California. Known for their authentic and delicious tacos, this vibrant eatery offers a wide variety of mouthwatering dishes that are sure to satisfy your cravings. Whether you're in the mood for traditional carne asada tacos, flavorful al pastor, or savory carnitas, Ruben's Tacos has something for everyone. With a cozy atmosphere and friendly staff, this institution is a must-visit for anyone looking to enjoy a taste of Mexico in the heart of Santa Cruz.

Chinese Village is a popular restaurant located at 3780 Capitola Road in Santa Cruz, California. Specializing in authentic Chinese cuisine, this establishment offers a wide variety of dishes that cater to both meat lovers and vegetarians. The cozy ambiance and friendly staff make it a favorite spot for locals and tourists alike. Whether you're craving traditional favorites like Kung Pao chicken or want to try something new like Mapo tofu, Chinese Village has something for everyone. Come and experience the flavors of China right in the heart of Santa Cruz.

Subway located at 809 Santa Cruz Avenue in Menlo Park, California, is a popular food institution offering meal takeaway and restaurant services. Subway Catering provides epic bundles of subs, drinks, chips, and cookies for any event. Customize your meal with a variety of fresh veggies, available as a sandwich, wrap, or salad. Some stores offer a gluten-free bread option, and all ingredients can be found in the Products and Ingredients guide. Orders can be placed online or through third-party delivery services like DoorDash and Uber Eats. Earn rewards with every purchase through the Subway Rewards program. Subway also offers gift cards for purchase online or in-store. Get involved with Team Subway by exploring career opportunities on their website. Enjoy fresh flavors and customizable options at your local Menlo Park Subway Restaurant.

Located at 3170 De La Cruz Boulevard in Santa Clara, California, iGrill Indian Cuisine, Buffets & Banquet Hall offers a unique and innovative take on traditional Indian cuisine. Founded by young entrepreneurs from the Bay Area, this restaurant combines the best of regional flavors with a modern twist. From succulent kebabs to freshly baked naan, guests can enjoy a wide variety of dishes that showcase the exotic spices and vibrant colors of Indian cooking. At iGrill, we only serve halal meat sourced from two local vendors, ensuring that our dishes are both delicious and ethically sourced. Whether you're a fan of vegetarian curries or crave the bold flavors of non-veg dishes, our menu has something for everyone.

Batish's is a renowned institution located at 1310 Mission Street in Santa Cruz, California. This unique establishment is a combination of a food joint, restaurant, and store all rolled into one. Offering a diverse menu of delicious dishes and a wide range of grocery items, Batish's is a one-stop destination for all your culinary needs. Whether you're looking for a quick bite to eat, a sit-down meal with friends and family, or ingredients to whip up a gourmet feast at home, Batish's has got you covered. Experience the flavors of Santa Cruz at Batish's today!

Whole Foods Market is a renowned institution located at 911 Soquel Avenue in Santa Cruz, California, United States. This establishment is a one-stop shop for all your food, grocery, health, and liquor needs. With a wide selection of products from local producers and artisans, Whole Foods Market celebrates British makers and offers up to 25% savings on selected British-made products. From April 17th to April 23rd, customers can enjoy a 20% discount on Giorgio Cravero Parmigiano Reggiano, including cubes and rinds. Whole Foods Market has recently introduced over 141 staple UK-favorite brands in their seven London stores. These products have passed rigorous quality standards, ensuring they are free from over 230 harmful ingredients commonly found in food. Customers can also enjoy the convenience of getting their favorite products delivered to their door with Deliveroo.

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.

Pho' House is a cozy and inviting restaurant located at 1102 Pacific Avenue in Santa Cruz, California. Specializing in traditional Vietnamese cuisine, Pho' House offers a wide range of delicious dishes, with their signature pho being a must-try for all visitors. The restaurant's warm and welcoming atmosphere, combined with their top-notch service, makes it a popular choice for locals and tourists alike. Whether you're in the mood for a hearty bowl of pho or craving some fresh spring rolls, Pho' House is the perfect spot to satisfy your Vietnamese food cravings. Come and experience the flavors of Vietnam right here in Santa Cruz.

Gilman Brewing Company is a top craft brewery located in Berkeley, California. Since 2015, they have been brewing exceptional beers at their West Berkeley Brewery & Taproom. With locations in Berkeley, Daly City, Pleasanton, and soon Santa Cruz, Gilman Brewing offers a variety of award-winning beers, wood-fired pizzas, snacks, and large plates without any pretentious attitude. The brewery also hosts weekly events that are open to the public. In addition to their delicious beers and food offerings, Gilman Brewing Company has a liquor store and restaurant on site. They offer both inside and patio seating for guests to enjoy. Customers can also purchase to-go products through their online ordering page.

We Olive & Wine Bar is a charming establishment located in the heart of Los Gatos, California. As a unique combination of a wine bar, gourmet food store, and grocery market, it offers a one-of-a-kind experience for visitors. Guests can enjoy a wide selection of high-quality wines, artisanal olive oils, and delicious food options in a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Whether you're looking for a casual drink, a quick bite to eat, or specialty ingredients to take home, We Olive & Wine Bar has something for everyone. With its prime location on North Santa Cruz Avenue, it is the perfect destination for locals and tourists alike to relax and indulge in the finer things in life.

New Leaf Community Markets is a food, grocery, and supermarket store located at 1101 Fair Avenue in Santa Cruz, California, United States. We are dedicated to supporting local Central Coast non-profits that work towards hunger relief, education, and environmental sustainability by donating a portion of our profits each year. Our grocery delivery service makes it quick and easy to get your favorite items delivered straight to your doorstep. Simply fill your online shopping cart and we'll handle the rest. Plus, earn points on every purchase and receive special rewards for making eco-friendly choices. You can redeem 500 points for a $5 treat or choose to donate your rewards to support local causes.