Andrew Steingrube

In Watsonville, a deeply loved neighborhood spot is doing everything right, from soul-warming bowls of pho to scratch-made boba drinks to keep regulars coming back again and again.

Blue Lava Café brings French-inspired crepes, classic eggs Benedict, and locally sourced breakfasts to Capitola, taking over the former Sweet Peas space with a fresh, ocean-themed vibe.

Tucked into the historic Brookdale Lodge, Brookdale Diner channels classic midcentury Americana with a menu built on comfort and nostalgia.

At d20 Pizza, Detroit-style pies meet board games and gastropub flair, creating a welcoming third space for Santa Cruz diners.

Zoccoli’s has been a downtown Santa Cruz institution since 1948, serving old-school Italian deli classics, handmade soups and sandwiches.

Imura in Watsonville blends Japanese and Korean cuisines with a deeply personal approach, from fresh sushi and bento boxes to bibimbap and dumpling soup.

The mobile pop-up Girasol Pizza is bringing authentic Chicago tavern-style thin-crust pizzas and Italian beef sandwiches to Santa Cruz.

Spontaneous Confections features unique French-leaning pastries that combine worldly inspiration with Chef Justin’s own creative instincts and talents.