Best Seasonal Restaurants in Santa Cruz

Price

$$
$$$
$$$$

Cuisine

AmericanItalianSeafoodFusion / EclecticGrillBurgers

Regions

Santa Cruz / Capitola / Aptos

Areas

AptosCapitolaSanta CruzSoquel

Top Rated

CharmingGood for business mealsGood for groupsGood for special occasionsGreat for brunchGreat for fine wines

Dining Options

All dining options

Delivery only

Takeaway only

Seating Options

BarCounterStandardHigh TopOutdoor

Accessibility

Gender-neutral restroomWheelchair access

13 restaurants available nearby

1. Oswald

4.5

Awesome(1617)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Contemporary American • Santa Cruz

Booked 10 times today

Oswald is a contemporary American restaurant and bar that focuses on the abundance of delicious ingredients found on the central coast of California. Oswald features an eclectic, international wine list and an exciting, seasonal bar program. While the decor is spare and modern, the atmosphere is comfortable and relaxed. Oswald features new art shows every two months. We do have first come tables available in the lounge as well as bar seats.Come by and see if there is a table or seat for you.

A photo of Chocolate the Restaurant restaurant

2. Chocolate the Restaurant

4.6

Exceptional(102)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Californian • Santa Cruz

Now celebrating 25 years, Chocolate the Restaurant provides an attractive dining environment for couples on dates, friendly meetings, and special occasion meals. Dine outside on the heated garden patio. Celebrate special occasions with up to 25 guests in the private street-side party room. Maybe start with a Chocolate Martini or a Passion Fruit Margarita. Chef David Jackman's fresh baked pasta rosettes, slow-roasted meats, and delicious seasonal organic vegetable dishes are all a prelude to our many chocolaty desserts. Our wine list focuses on local and on Italian wines. Our cocktails are all made from scratch; often using locally distilled spirits, and always using fresh house-made mixers. We are at your service for dinner every night! Afternoon walk-up cafe' service Friday thru Sunday. . We are open for dinner every holiday except Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.

3. la Posta

4.8

Exceptional(2366)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Italian • Santa Cruz

Booked 19 times today

Select from a menu that features dishes composed of locally sourced ingredients as well as house-made pastas, naturally leavened breads and pizzas from our brick oven. Because we rely on the bounty of the Santa Cruz farming community, our menu changes frequently and features a wide array of specials. La Posta’s all-Italian wine list includes autochthonous varieties from small producers, by-the-glass and by the bottle. La Posta adheres to the Monterey Bay Seafood Watch Program and is a certified City of Santa Cruz Green Business.We are so thankful for the incredible support from our customers and community. We will continue to adjust our service based upon best practices for keeping our staff and community safe.

A photo of Solaire Restaurant + Bar restaurant

4. Solaire Restaurant + Bar

3.8

Excellent(222)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Californian • Santa Cruz

Booked 1 time today

Whether it be a cocktail while soaking up the sun at the poolside patio, anexpertly prepared meal, or a spirited conversation at the bar, SolaireRestaurant + Bar offers the best of what is available with the changingseasons.Solaire offers a truly local dining destination that offers unexpected andoffbeat twists on local ingredients and flavors. The atmosphere of theseasonal restaurant changes based on the weather—in the warm weathermonths it is a playful experience centered on the indoor/outdoor restaurant spaces andthe vibrant pool scene. In the foggier months, guests can relax under the powerful outdoor heaters in our indoor/outdoor covered space while enjoying a cocktail. Mirroring the laid-back attitude of Santa Cruz, the restaurant and bar bring the natural outdoor elements inside in imaginative and modern ways.

A photo of Jack O'Neill Restaurant & Lounge restaurant

5. Jack O'Neill Restaurant & Lounge

4.7

Exceptional(1993)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Contemporary American • Santa Cruz

Booked 18 times today

Jack O’Neill Restaurant and Lounge is Santa Cruz’s best new destination for coastal California cuisine. The approachable and family-friendly vibe at Jack O’Neill Restaurant and Lounge will welcome hotel guests and locals alike.

A photo of The View Restaurant & Bar restaurant

6. The View Restaurant & Bar

4.4

Awesome(1223)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Contemporary American • Santa Cruz

Booked 12 times today

Set high on a hilltop with breathtaking panoramic views of the Monterey Bay, The View Restaurant & Bar at Chaminade offers a unique dining experience. Indoor and outdoor seating allows guests to enjoy the naturally beautiful scenery which compliments the contemporary California Cuisine. Whether it’s sustainable seafood or locally grown produce, The View emphasizes natural ingredients while providing four-diamond service. A 4% surcharge will be added to all guest checks to help cover increases in labor costs and to support a higher minimum wage.***Please note that our kitchen closes from 1:30pm-2:00pm to prepare for dinner service. Our bar and restaurant remain open during that time, offering a fine selection of local wines, craft beers, signature cocktails, and non-alcoholic refreshments to enjoy.

7. Suda

4.9

Exceptional(393)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• American • Santa Cruz

Booked 3 times today

Pairing seasonal produce from local farmers with line caught fish and lean, hormone-free beef, the menu at Süda stays as fresh as the ingredients. With a variety of inventive dishes, including vegan and gluten free options, there is truly something for everyone.The atmosphere at the bar is lively, while booths offer diners a more intimate experience making Süda the perfect place for a casual meal with friends or a night out with someone special. We are open for breakfast, lunch and dinner so you can enjoy fresh food whenever your heart desires.

A photo of Venus Spirits Cocktails & Kitchen | Westside restaurant

8. Venus Spirits Cocktails & Kitchen | Westside

4.5

Awesome(637)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Californian • Santa Cruz

Booked 13 times today

Savor our handcrafted cocktails and flavorful dishes right beside the distillery where our premium spirits are crafted. Whether you prefer indoor dining, a lively bar atmosphere, or our covered heated patio, we provide a variety of seating options to enhance your experience.HOURS:Monday - Thursday // 5pm - 9pmFriday // 4pm - 9pmSaturday - Sunday // 11:30am - 9pm

A photo of Cafe Cruz Rosticceria & Bar restaurant

9. Cafe Cruz Rosticceria & Bar

4.7

Exceptional(2086)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Contemporary American • Soquel

Booked 25 times today

Cafe Cruz is a popular and lively local restaurant. We offer casual/fine dining with a full bar, indoor and heated patio dining. Guests enjoy watching the "magic" created in our open copper-backed kitchen each night by our talented team of chefs. Notable features include many locally sourced foods, nightly sustainable seafood specials, and many creative salad and vegetable options. Our innovative pastas and sandwiches are always a hit. Spit-Roasted meats are featured each night, cooked on a french Rotisol rotisserie. The lush garden room can seat larger parties of up to 35. Guests enjoy our warm friendly service, our many seating options, and exceptionally delicious food.

10. Pete's Capitola

4.5

Awesome(50)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Californian • Capitola

Booked 2 times today

A culinary celebration of California's coastal offerings, and a heartfelt tribute to the late Peter Orr. Founded by Sarah Orr and her mother Mary Ann Orr of Sunset Hospitality Group, Pete's Fish House embodies a deep-rooted passion for community and culinary excellence.Named in honor of Sarah's father and mentor, this restaurant is more than just a dining experience—it's a reflection of cherished memories and Peter’s larger than life legacy. Sarah explains, "I have been looking for a way to honor him, and this feels like the right way to do that."At Pete's Fish House, expect a menu that is inspired by the coastal waters and the bountiful local agriculture that Peter was deeply committed to, ensuring a true representation of our region's culinary heritage.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

A
AninaVIP
San Francisco Bay Area •70 reviews
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
As usual the food at Laposta was fabulous. Is that a contradiction in terms to say that it is usual and it is fabulous but it was we had so many delicious items on our meal. I’m so glad it’s in my neighborhood.
More info
la PostaPrice: Moderate• Italian• Santa Cruz
•
4.8
B
barbara
Washington, D.C. Area •12 reviews
4.0
Dined 5 days ago
Oswald’s was very good. Noise level was high. We enjoyed are meal & service was excellent
More info
OswaldPrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Santa Cruz
•
4.5
E
EddieVIP
San Francisco Bay Area •20 reviews
5.0
Dined 5 days ago
03/07/25 weekly visit. Had the usual pasta rosettes for 2 and the Oaxacan chicken mole. Finished with chocolate ecstasy sundae, sinc cake, Victoria hot chocolate.
More info
Chocolate the RestaurantPrice: Expensive• Californian• Santa Cruz
•
4.6
P
Patrick
San Francisco Bay Area •1 review
5.0
Dined on 16 Feb 2025
Food was excellent. Wait to be seated 30 mins after reservation and then when seated needed to get attention of waitstaff for food and drink.
More info
Basil Seasonal DiningPrice: Expensive• Italian• Carmel
•
4.4
M
MayderVIP
California Central Coast •13 reviews
5.0
Dined on 1 Oct 2024
We loved the way they admitted our dog even at the bar/restaurant. A thousand of thumbs up for that.
More info
Solaire Restaurant + BarPrice: Expensive• Californian• Santa Cruz
•
3.8