Andrew Steingrube

New Capitola shop Toriman Japanese Market pairs hard-to-find Japanese groceries with ready-to-eat favorites including yakitori, bento, miso soup, rice bowls and slow-simmered sukiyaki.

Chef Nongluk Ritter brings recipes rooted in her childhood in Thailand to Poon Sup Thai Cuisine, the new Scotts Valley restaurant she owns with husband Myles Ritter.

River Café owner Rabgee Kunchok brings the flavors of his Tibetan childhood to Santa Cruz with scratch-made momo dumplings, noodle soup and a welcoming community spirit.

Brothers Joel and Brayden Estby built 11th Hour Coffee into a Santa Cruz gathering place fueled by creative drinks, housemade food and community connection.

Dos Pescados in Aptos pairs coastal Mexican cuisine with ocean views, serving local fish tacos, grilled prawns, calamari and housemade desserts.

The Alley-Oop brings moody New York cocktail-lounge style to downtown Santa Cruz, pairing classic drinks with small plates and late-night date-night atmosphere.

Elite Meal Service brings restaurant-inspired, chef-prepared meals to Santa Cruz County homes, with local sourcing, custom menus and global flavors.

Andrew Steingrube checks in with Solaire Restaurant & Bar at Hotel Paradox, where a revamped menu, local partnerships and poolside energy are giving the restaurant a new identity.