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Best Mediterranean Restaurants in Santa Cruz

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4 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Laili restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(2858)
Price: Moderate
• Mediterranean • Santa Cruz
Booked 22 times today
Laili, nestled in the vibrant heart of downtown Santa Cruz, is a culinary gem celebrated for its exceptional Mediterranean cuisine with an enchanting Afghan twist. Recognized as the "BEST MIDDLE EASTERN RESTAURANT" by Good Times 2023, Laili offers a rich tapestry of flavors that captivate the palate. Guests rave about the "delicious, fresh, flavorful food" and the "amazing, service and ambience." From succulent kabobs to exquisite pastas, each dish is a testament to authenticity and culinary artistry. The restaurant's elegant patio provides a perfect backdrop for a memorable dining experience, making it a must-visit destination for lovers of Mediterranean cuisine.
A photo of Chocolate the Restaurant restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(82)
Price: Expensive
• Mediterranean • Santa Cruz
Booked 8 times today
Chocolate the Restaurant in Santa Cruz perfectly encapsulates the essence of Californian cuisine with its emphasis on fresh, organic ingredients and a creative culinary approach. Celebrating 25 years of culinary excellence, this spot is a haven for food lovers seeking an authentic Californian dining experience. Patrons rave about the "rich and delicious" food, particularly noting the fusion of local flavors in dishes like the Oaxacan chicken mole and the freshly baked pasta rosettes. The restaurant's use of locally sourced spirits and house-made mixers in their cocktails adds to the authentic local vibe. "The garden dining is beautiful and intimate," one reviewer noted, praising the restaurant's ability to merge atmosphere with gastronomy, making it a standout in the Californian culinary scene. Whether it's the innovative chocolate-infused dishes or the vibrant cocktails, Chocolate the Restaurant offers a distinct and memorable taste of California.
A photo of Mozaic - Santa Cruz restaurant
4.5
Awesome(471)
Price: Moderate
• Mediterranean • Santa Cruz
Mozaic in Santa Cruz is a treasure trove of Middle Eastern cuisine, seamlessly blending authentic flavors with a modern twist. The restaurant's commitment to authenticity shines through dishes that utilize century-old cooking techniques handed down through generations, ensuring each meal is a reflection of rich culinary heritage. Patrons rave about the "best hummus and chicken" and the "delicious and fresh" seafood, highlighting the high-quality, locally-sourced ingredients. The atmosphere is consistently praised as "warm and inviting," perfect for families or a romantic outing. Mozaic isn't just a meal; it's an experience where every dish promises "exquisite joy for the tongue" and leaves diners eager to return.
A photo of Vinocruz restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(123)
Price: Moderate
• Mediterranean • Soquel
Booked 1 time 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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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Brenda
    San Francisco Bay Area •4 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    One of our favorite restaurants. Outstanding food and service. Love their outdoor dining area.
    More info
    The Hero Ranch KitchenPrice: Expensive• American• Saratoga
    4.8
  • Koryvip
    San Francisco Bay Area •4 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 6 days ago
    It was a perfect place to go. Almost everything about it was great. The only thing was we did have a reservation and were there 20min before our reservation but weren’t able to get a table. We sat at the bar while we waited for our table but it didn’t materialize. I would go again but either plan on the bar or get there even earlier to make sure we get a table.
    More info
    Mozaic - Santa CruzPrice: Moderate• Mediterranean• Santa Cruz
    4.5
  • Kathy
    San Francisco Bay Area •8 reviews
    4.0
    Dined on Nov 13, 2024
    I chose Chocolate for a birthday/retirement lunch with family. I was the only chocoholic in our party, but all enjoyed the food. We all got different hot chocolates to begin, a variety of main dishes, and different desserts, all of which we liked. I got a dark Colombian hot chocolate, which packed the kind of deep punch I like. I also got the chicken mole. They now have only one type of mole, which was a little spicier than I'm used to. I acclimated quickly and gobbled it all up, although the spice did affect the taste of the remaining hot chocolate. For dessert, I got the chocolate sin cake, which was nice and dark, though not as dense as I expected. We ate inside, which was rather dark--I had to walk over to a window to read the menu. Service was generally good and well timed, although the one soda ordered was not brought. The restaurant is quite small, so it's probably never loud inside; we were there mid-afternoon, and there were only a handful of other patrons. Metered parking right outside on the street was surprisingly available, although not cheap. There is also a covered lot right around the corner. We will definitely return!
    More info
    Chocolate the RestaurantPrice: Expensive• Californian• Santa Cruz
    4.7
  • Mike
    St. Louis •3 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Nov 13, 2024
    Fabulous food, service and abience! Best middle eastern food ever. The fresh baked naan were especially yummy as were the dips with the naan. Will definitely return!
    More info
    LailiPrice: Moderate• Mediterranean• Santa Cruz
    4.7
  • OpenTable Diner
    San Francisco Bay Area •1 review
    5.0
    Dined on Jun 7, 2024
    The food was fantastic!!! We were the only people there unfortunately. They even had a band playing. We enjoyed the food a lot!! The service was so so but I understand. She was had no customers so that means she’s making very little money. But I’d give my one customers the best service they ever had if it was me. But the business and cooks deserve the five star rating. 100%!! Fantastic place to take a date or your visiting parents. Loved it!!!!
    More info
    VinocruzPrice: Moderate• Wine Bar• Soquel
    4.6

Discover best Mediterranean restaurants in Santa Cruz

Discover the rich and varied Mediterranean dining options in the Santa Cruz / Capitola / Aptos area, a treasure trove for food enthusiasts looking to explore flavors from the sunny Mediterranean coast. This region offers a delightful array of eateries that specialize in Mediterranean cuisine, with a special focus on Middle Eastern influences. Each restaurant skillfully combines traditional recipes from Greece, Lebanon, Turkey, and Sicily, bringing authentic, age-old culinary techniques to the table. The menus feature high-quality, locally sourced ingredients, including sustainable seafood and locally grown produce, ensuring each dish bursts with freshness and flavor. The dining scene in Santa Cruz is vibrant and diverse, reflecting its community's appreciation for both traditional and innovative culinary approaches. Whether you're craving succulent kabobs, savory flatbreads, or delectably seasoned mezze plates, the Mediterranean restaurants here promise an exceptional gastronomic experience. The area is celebrated not only for its food but also for its warm, inviting atmospheres and attentive service, making each dining experience truly memorable. For anyone with a passion for Mediterranean cuisine or those looking to try something uniquely flavorful, Santa Cruz / Capitola / Aptos offers an enticing culinary journey.

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