Mark C. Anderson

Mark C. Anderson visits Bad Animal in Santa Cruz, where Chef Nick Hahn’s market-driven menu turns seasonal appetizers into bold, shareable flavor experiences.

Village Foods debuts a new East Cliff Drive micro grocery and eatery with prepared meals, grab-and-go options and local goods, while Seabright and Harbor businesses look for creative ways to stay connected during the Murray Street Bridge closure.

Davenport Roadhouse gets a coastal refresh with chef Jessie Curran, formerly of State Bird Provisions, The Progress and The Anchovy Bar, while DIYine brings homemade pineapple wine, mead, beer and more to Santa Cruz.

This week’s Santa Cruz dining column spotlights Switch Bakery & Bistro’s gluten-free comfort food, Bruno’s Bar & Grill’s towering Bloody Marys and bargain specials, plus beer industry insights and local food news.

The Cruz Room brings together award-winning pizza, milkshakes, live music and arcade energy in one of Santa Cruz’s most inventive new dining spots.

From oysters to a standout passionfruit margarita, Mane Kitchen & Cocktails delivers bold flavors and high-energy hospitality in downtown Santa Cruz.

A quick Monterey getaway delivers oceanfront dining, spa indulgence and hidden coastal beauty at the Monterey Plaza Hotel.

From pizza deals at Watsonville’s Hangar to Beer Mule events and updates on Dharma’s, this week’s Santa Cruz dining scene is full of flavor and change.