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Best Restaurants that are Worth The Drive in Santa Cruz

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6 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Laili restaurant
1. Laili
4.7
Exceptional(2884)
Price: Moderate
• Mediterranean • Santa Cruz
Booked 18 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 Chocolate the Restaurant restaurant
2. Chocolate the Restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(102)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Santa Cruz
Booked 4 times today
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.
A photo of Jack O'Neill Restaurant & Lounge restaurant
3. Jack O'Neill Restaurant & Lounge
4.7
Exceptional(1994)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary American • Santa Cruz
Booked 20 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 Cafe Cruz Rosticceria & Bar restaurant
4. Cafe Cruz Rosticceria & Bar
4.7
Exceptional(2086)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary American • Soquel
Booked 27 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.
A photo of Pete's Capitola restaurant
5. Pete's Capitola
4.5
Awesome(50)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Capitola
Booked 5 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.
A photo of Vinocruz restaurant
6. Vinocruz
4.6
Exceptional(128)
Price: Moderate
• Wine Bar • Soquel
Booked 2 times today
Vinocruz Wine Bar and Kitchen features over 50 local wines by the glass from the beautiful and often under appreciated Santa Cruz Mountains AVA starting at about $9 a glass along with local ciders and beers on tap. We also have an extensive menu of small plates including Flatbreads, Fish Tacos, Street Tacos, Short rib Sliders, House made Hummus, Vino Burger, Port infused Truffles, daily specials and much more!We are located in Soquel Village about a 2 min drive from Capitola beach and 10 min from SC Beach Boardwalk. Our large redwood bar and handmade tables offer a cozy, but modern dining experience. For groups larger than 4 please give us a call and we would be happy to accommodate you. Our goal is to be your go-to location for a slightly upscale wine bar in Santa Cruz County and also THE place to go explore Santa Cruz Mountains Wines.

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Discover best worth the drive restaurants in Santa Cruz

Discover the culinary delights of the Santa Cruz / Capitola / Aptos area, where each restaurant presents a unique reason making them "worth the drive." This region is renowned for its diverse dining scene, blending local charm with gourmet experiences that cater to every palate. Whether you're in the mood for exquisite Italian cuisine, creative locally-sourced dishes, or dining with spectacular views, these restaurants offer exceptional quality and memorable experiences. Patrons frequently commend the excellent service, enticing ambiance, and the high quality of the food, often highlighting the use of fresh and organic ingredients. These establishments are not only celebrated for their individual merits but also for their contribution to the vibrant and eclectic dining culture of the Santa Cruz Bay Area. Perfect for special occasions or a delightful culinary adventure, each restaurant ensures a satisfying visit that justifies the journey.

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