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Best Neighborhood Gem Restaurants in Soquel

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8 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Cafe Cruz Rosticceria & Bar restaurant
1. Cafe Cruz Rosticceria & Bar
4.7
Exceptional(2049)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary American • Soquel
Booked 46 times today
Cafe Cruz is a local favorite in Soquel, serving contemporary American cuisine. With its open kitchen and rotisserie, it's a hit for its innovative pastas, sandwiches, and sustainable seafood specials. Reviewers rave about its warm and friendly staff, exceptional food, and cozy ambiance, calling it a 'gem' in the neighborhood.
A photo of The View, a Treeside Restaurant restaurant
2. The View, a Treeside Restaurant
4.1
Excellent(1189)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary American • Santa Cruz
Booked 13 times today
Set high on a hilltop with breathtaking panoramic views of the Monterey Bay, The View, 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.
A photo of Jack O'Neill Restaurant & Lounge restaurant
3. Jack O'Neill Restaurant & Lounge
4.7
Exceptional(1976)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary American • Santa Cruz
Booked 22 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 la Posta restaurant
4. la Posta
4.8
Exceptional(2343)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Santa Cruz
Booked 1 time 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 Laili restaurant
5. Laili
4.6
Exceptional(2868)
Price: Moderate
• Mediterranean • Santa Cruz
Booked 24 times today
Laili is our expression of love through food and service. We offer a unique menu made up of fusion Afghani Mediterranean items that include kabobs, wraps, flatbreads, pastas, and spiced lamb and chicken dishes as well as delicious vegetarian options.Laili Restaurant "BEST MIDDLE EASTERN RESTAURANT", Good Times 2023, Voted #1Rich Mediterranean Flavors with a Unique Afghan Twist in the Heart of Downtown Santa Cruz.Currently taking reservations for lunch and dinner, walk-ins welcome too.Dine in our elegant, secluded, off street patio. Visit our website for event information.
A photo of Sanderlings - Seascape Resort restaurant
6. Sanderlings - Seascape Resort
3.9
Excellent(1294)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Aptos
Booked 3 times today
Sanderlings Restaurant at Seascape Beach Resort offers elegant, casual dining with a spectacular ocean view from sunrise to sunset.
A photo of Oswald restaurant
7. Oswald
4.6
Exceptional(1614)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary American • Santa Cruz
Booked 28 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 Gabriella Cafe restaurant
8. Gabriella Cafe
4.7
Exceptional(977)
Price: Very Expensive
• Italian • Santa Cruz
Booked 8 times today
Gabriella Cafe is a neighborhood gem because of its consistently delicious food, charming atmosphere, and efficient service. The restaurant is often described as 'quaint', 'cozy', and 'romantic', making it a favorite among locals for special occasions and quiet lunches. It's also praised for its use of local, seasonal produce, creative touch, and broad menu to satisfy all preferences. As one reviewer said, 'Another stellar dining experience at Gabriela. We love this neighborhood gem!'

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Larry
    San Francisco Bay Area •20 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    We had lunch outside yesterday. The food, service and ambience were wonderful as usual. We've dined here many times over many years, and have never been disappointed, seriously! We both selected from their Lunch Specials menu (which changes frequently). I had to try the Huevos Rancheros. Theirs is close to, if not the best rendition of the dish that I have had. Thin, crispy tortillas (whole, not chips), layered with black beans, lightly spiced and smokey ranchero sauce, topped with two perfectly cooked fried eggs, sour cream, 1/2 of a sliced avocado. Just delicious! My wife had the Grilled shrimp salad with super-soft gorgonzola cheese with balsamic drizzle and sliced poached bartlett pears. Salad had arugula, shaved brussels sprouts, and dries cranberries. Also, simply delicious! We live locally and it's wonderful that we have Cafe Cruz in our back pocket to dine at whenever we like.
    More info
    Cafe Cruz Rosticceria & BarPrice: Moderate• Contemporary American• Soquel
    •
    4.7
  • Michele
    San Francisco Bay Area •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    We went for breakfast.. the food was excellent. I had the lemon ricotta pancakes and wow - they were delicious. Service was great, beautiful views. Overall great experience!
    More info
    Jack O'Neill Restaurant & LoungePrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Santa Cruz
    •
    4.7
  • LoriVIP
    Sacramento / Sacramento Valley •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    Gavin was amazing! Such a wonderful knowledgeable server! The entire wait staff and host were attentive friendly and fun!!
    More info
    la PostaPrice: Moderate• Italian• Santa Cruz
    •
    4.8
  • Melody
    San Francisco Bay Area •1 review
    5.0
    Dined on Dec 27, 2024
    The eggplant is always superb. Our waitperson was attentive and not intrusive. The courtyard is a favorite but as it was raining, we had the opportunity to admire the decor inside and appreciate the acoustics. Can count on Laili for consistently high-quality food and service!
    More info
    LailiPrice: Moderate• Mediterranean• Santa Cruz
    •
    4.6
  • Mai
    San Francisco Bay Area •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Dec 25, 2024
    The buffet experience was great! Each station offered something unique, with everything from sizzling hot entrees, a pasta and omelet station, to beautifully presented seafood appetizers, salads and desserts that were appealing and delicious. The ham, prime rib, turkey and salmon in particular were tasty, moist and tender. The quality and taste of the food exceeded expectations. Staff was attentive and friendly, though it took a little while to be greeted by our server. I left feeling satisfied and look forward to future buffets!
    More info
    The View, a Treeside RestaurantPrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Santa Cruz
    •
    4.1

Discover best neighborhood gem restaurants in Soquel

Discover the hidden culinary treasures of the San Francisco Bay Area in the charming locales of Soquel, Santa Cruz / Capitola / Aptos. Renowned for their cozy, welcoming atmospheres, these neighborhood gems offer a unique dining experience that locals and visitors alike cherish. From sustainable seafood dishes to innovative pastas and heartwarming sandwiches, each restaurant brings its own flavor to the table, making every meal a memorable one. The dining scene here is characterized by its commitment to quality and the use of fresh, local ingredients, reflecting the community's passion for exceptional gastronomy. Whether you're seeking a casual dining spot or a more sophisticated ambience, you'll find that these establishments cater to a variety of tastes and occasions. Experience the personal touch of attentive staff and the creative culinary skills of expert chefs, all set against the backdrop of this picturesque region. Explore these neighborhood gems for an authentic taste of local cuisine that promises to delight your senses and leave you longing for your next visit.

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