How Physical Space Shaped the Sound of Local Quartet Majk

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How Physical Space Shaped the Sound of Local Quartet Majk

Initially, the members of local quartet Majk just got together to play a gig that cellist/vocalist Alexis Hawks had booked but didn’t have a band to perform.

When they rehearsed, each brought some of their own tunes, working together to arrange them as a four-piece. Right away they saw there was something special about the group. They not only wanted to keep it going, but also to make sure there was a permanent document of the music.

“We were making really magical music, and there were moments where it was like, ‘Are we going to be a forever band?’” says vocalist/pianist Kelly Koval. “We all agreed that we couldn’t just let it disappear into the ether.”

It was a long process, but last month, four years after that initial gig, Majk released its debut self-titled album. It’s a gorgeous, lush blend of instruments and vocals—sort of Americana, but not quite. The group often plays slowly, using empty space whenever possible.

Through those four years, the album remained the centerpiece of the band. They even stayed selective about when they’d play shows. They faced numerous hurdles over the course of completing the album, but the extra time it took also allowed them to make it exactly how they wanted.

“It was always like, ‘Majk will not be complete until there is an album.’ So we had to do it,” Koval says. “There were so many life events—weddings, deaths, and pandemics, being separated while traveling. Our songs went through evolutions. We recorded them one way three years ago. We listened back and thought, ‘I’m not sure if that’s how they should be set in stone forever.’”  

Visually, the group looks like a string band. Though Americana, chamber and folk are influences, the music goes in some pretty unexpected directions. Part of what makes Majk unique is the way the musicians let everything blend together and use the vocals as another instrument. They also mix in a fair number of pop elements as well, while keeping it highly emotive.

Some of this overlapping of instruments evolved from rehearsing in a tight space. They would literally crowd around each other in a small circle, touching each other’s knees, giving them a tactile sense of there being no individual member, just a single musical entity.

“The space shaped the sound,” Hawks says. “I think we were often focused on what the song needed over what we wanted to play. Does what you’re adding serve the song? A lot of them come off as pretty minimal.”

Their sound really came together when they worked on the album.

“When we were recording, things would change pretty drastically. That whole process was really important to finding the true essence of what each of those songs were supposed to be,” says bassist Jeff Kissell. “I think that mindfulness was baked in from the beginning.”  

But the process of documenting these songs, more than anything, was its own kind of journey. Not only were they polishing these songs, they were stripping them down until the core emotions revealed themselves.  

“A lot of our music is about expressing some deep emotion we’re trying to convey. A lot of times, when we’re working out a song, we’re trying to get to that essence of, ‘What’s the feeling behind the song?’” says guitarist/vocalist Mathew Harmon. “I don’t know if that’s something we talk about logically. I think a lot of this music is subtle and some of it is even melancholy, but it’s about expressing these deep emotions that we all go through and trying to find a way sonically for us to all be in that together, and share it through song.”  

For more information on Majk, go to majk.hearnow.com/majk.

Rob Brezsny’s Astrology: Oct. 21-27

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Rob Brezsny’s Astrology: Oct. 21-27

Free will astrology for the week of Oct. 21 

ARIES (March 21-April 19): “I’ve been told that nobody sings the word ‘hunger’ like I do,” testified Aries chanteuse Billie Holiday. She wasn’t suggesting that she had a stylish way of crooning about fine dining. Rather, she meant “hunger” in the sense of the longing for life’s poignant richness. Her genius-level ability to express such beauty was due in part to her skillful vocal technique, but also because she was a master of cultivating soulful emotions. Your assignment in the coming weeks, Aries, is to refine and deepen your own hunger.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Author Renata Adler expresses my own feelings when she writes, “Hardly anyone about whom I deeply care resembles anyone else I have ever met, or heard of, or read about in literature.” I bet if you’re honest, Taurus, you would say the same. It’s almost certainly the case that the people you regard as worthy of your love and interest are absolutely unique. In the sense that there are no other characters like them in the world, they are superstars and prodigies. I bring this to your attention because now is an excellent time to fully express your appreciation for their one-of-a-kind beauty—to honor and celebrate them for their entertainment value and precious influence and unparalleled blessings.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): “If you cannot find an element of humor in something, you’re not taking it seriously enough,” writes author Ilyas Kassam. That’s a key thought for you to keep in mind during the coming weeks. Levity and joking will be necessities, not luxuries. Fun and amusement will be essential ingredients in the quest to make good decisions. You can’t afford to be solemn and stern, because allowing those states to dominate you would diminish your intelligence. Being playful—even in the face of challenges—will ensure your ultimate success.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): I’m hoping the horoscopes I wrote for you in late August helped propel you into a higher level of commitment to the art of transformation. In any case, I suspect that you will have the chance, in the coming weeks, to go even further in your mastery of that art. To inspire you in your efforts, I’ll encourage you to at least temporarily adopt one or more of the nicknames in the following list: 1. Flux Luster 2. Fateful Fluctuator 3. Shift Virtuoso 4. Flow Maestro 5. Alteration Adept 6. Change Arranger 7. Mutability Savant 8. Transition Connoisseur.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): “When one is a stranger to oneself, then one is estranged from others, too,” wrote author Anne Morrow Lindbergh. “If one is out of touch with oneself, then one cannot touch others. Only when one is connected to one’s own core, is one connected to others.” In bringing these thoughts to your attention, Leo, I don’t mean to imply that you are out of touch with your deep self. Not at all. But in my view, all of us can benefit from getting into ever-closer communion with our deep selves. In the coming weeks, you especially need to work on that—and are likely to have extra success in doing so.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): My cosmic tipsters told me that you will be even smarter than usual in the coming weeks. As I scoured the heavenly maps, I detected signs that you have the potential to be a skilled code-cracker, riddle-decipherer and solver of knotty problems and tricky dilemmas. That’s why I suggest you express gratitude to your beautiful brain, Virgo. Sing it sweet songs and tell it how much you love it and find out which foods you can eat to strengthen it even more. Now read Diane Ackerman’s description of the brain: “that shiny mound of being, that mouse-gray parliament of cells, that dream factory, that petit tyrant inside a ball of bone, that huddle of neurons calling all the plays, that little everywhere, that fickle pleasuredome.”

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): I vote in American elections, but I’ve never belonged to a political party. One of my favorite politicians is Bernie Sanders, who for most of his career has been an Independent. But now I’m a staunch advocate for the Democrats. Why? Because Republicans are so thoroughly under the curse of the nasty, cruel, toxic person known as Donald Trump. I’m convinced that it’s crucial for our country’s well-being that Democrats achieve total victory in the upcoming election. In accordance with astrological omens, I urge you to do your personal equivalent of what I’ve done: Unambiguously align yourself with influences that represent your highest, noblest values. Take a sacred stand not just for yourself, but also in behalf of everything you love.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): “I loathe narcissism, but I approve of vanity,” said fashion writer Diana Vreeland. Here’s how I interpret that: People who care mostly for their own feelings and welfare, and who believe they’re more important than everyone else, are boring and repellent. But those who enjoy looking their best and expressing their unique beauty may do so out of a desire to share their gifts with the world. Their motivation might be artistry and generosity, not self-centeredness. In accordance with cosmic potentials, Scorpio, I invite you to elude the temptations of narcissism as you explore benevolent forms of vanity.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Yes, do let people see you sweat. At least for now, be forthright and revelatory. Let people witness your secret fire, your fierce tang, your salty tears and your unhealed wounds. Hold nothing back as you give what you haven’t been able to give before. Be gleefully expressive as you unveil every truth, every question, every buried joy. Don’t be crude and insensitive, of course. Be as elegant and respectful as possible. But make it your priority to experiment with sacred vulnerability. Find out how far you can safely go as you strip away the disguises that have kept you out of touch with your full power.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Between 2008 and 2017, Southern California had two sizable earthquakes: 5.5 and 5.1 on the Richter scale. But during the same period, the area had 1.8 million small quakes that were mostly too mild to be felt. The ground beneath the feet of the local people was shaking at the rate of once every three minutes. Metaphorically speaking, Capricorn, you’re now in a phase that resembles the mild shakes. There’s a lot of action going on beneath the surface, although not much of it is obvious. I think this is a good thing. The changes you’re shepherding are proceeding at a safe, gradual, well-integrated pace.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): No American woman was allowed to earn a medical degree and practice as a physician until Aquarian-born Elizabeth Blackwell did it in 1849. It was an almost impossible feat, since the all-male college she attended undermined her mercilessly. Once she began her career as a doctor, she constantly had to outwit men who made it difficult for her. Nevertheless, she persisted. Eventually, she helped create a medical school for women in England and made it possible for 476 women to practice medicine there. I propose that we make her your patron saint for now. May she inspire you to redouble your diligent pursuit of your big dream. Here’s your motto: “Nevertheless, I’m persisting.”

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Henry David Thoreau wrote, “I fear my expression may not be extravagant enough, may not wander far enough beyond the narrow limit of my daily experience, so as to be adequate to the truth of which I have been convinced.” You’ll be wise to have a similar fear, Pisces. According to my analysis, you can generate good fortune for yourself by transcending what you already know and think. Life is conspiring to nudge you and coax you into seeking experiences that will expand your understanding of everything. Take advantage of this opportunity to blow your own mind!

Homework: Name five things you do to make yourself feel good. Then think of another thing to add to the list. freewillastrology.com. 


Savoring Sensuous and Inventive Flavors at Sawasdee

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Savoring Sensuous and Inventive Flavors at Sawasdee

A takeout dinner perfumed with spices and inspired by culinary expertise—that was our wonderful Thai meal from Sawasdee. 

Every time I taste food from this fine kitchen I wonder why I don’t feast on these sensuous curries, stir-fries, and inventive salads more often. (For the record, I have no excuse.) 

The absolute destination dish from Sawasdee has got to be the plump, tender house dumplings ($9.95). Each large dumpling involves a layering of pork and shrimp infused by garlic and ginger, wrapped in transparent wonton and joined by a sensational sauce (possibly soy-based) filled with sweet and spicy mystery. One bite and we realized we could have made a complete dinner on a double order of these fabulous dumplings, which—like every item in our Sawasdee meal—tasted wonderful at any temperature. 

White wine, for example the refreshing Birichino Malvasia Bianca we had on hand, is great with Thai food, although beer is probably its natural partner. 

Our two other entrees pretty much summed up my personal favorites in this cuisine. One was a country-style red curry (without coconut milk) loaded with attitude, spices like red chile and cinnamon, and robustly-sliced vegetables ($11.95). Along with carrot, bell peppers, mushrooms and string beans, the curry arrived with our requested extras, cubes of outstanding tofu, plus thin slices of pork. Yes, Sawasdee lets you have exactly what you want, even the counterintuitive combo of tofu and pork. 

We ladelled our curry into bowls filled with nutty brown rice ($2.50) and enjoyed the sensation of lips growing slightly numb. The other favorite was silver noodle salad ($11.95), a large portion of transparent bean thread noodles tossed with ground chicken, mint leaves, cilantro, plump shrimps and a wicked good, spicy lemon dressing. I have always loved this disarming combination of silky cool noodles and fiery sweet/hot dressing. The flavor intensity grows with each bite, and like everything Thai it is absolutely addictive. 

Sawasdee’s huge menu is packed with exciting food, food that tastes like perfume and suggests a bit of consciousness alteration. It’s frankly fun to eat: The eyes have as much to do as the taste buds. Next time, in addition to those outrageous dumplings, we’ll work our way through the rest of the curries. 

5050 Soquel Drive, Soquel. Open daily 11am-9:30pm, and until 10pm Friday-Saturday. sawasdeesoquel.com.  

Trends of the Times

This is the sort of inspired win-win alliance destined to pop up more frequently. A winery tasting room, in this case Ser, has joined up with a fine restaurant, Cafe Sparrow, to maximize opportunities for wine and food pairings in the heart of Aptos Village. You can now enjoy indoor tasting of the intriguing wines made by Nicole Walsh, along with a menu of foods ranging from cheese plates, crabcakes, and pork belly appetizers, to Caesar salad, seared ahi, and the infamous Sparrow Burger. 

Ser staff will order your food and it will be delivered to you at the tasting room, Thursday-Saturday from 4-7pm. Not all tasting rooms have their own kitchens, but they all have access to fine dining in their neighborhood. 

10 Parade St., Suite B, Aptos. Thursday-Friday, 3-7pm; Saturday-Sunday, noon-7pm. serwinery.com/tasting-room. 

Vineyard Visit to Muns

Go vineyard tasting on Sunday, Oct. 25, surrounded by the freshly harvested Pinot Noir and Syrah vineyards of Muns, overlooking Monterey Bay. Make a reservation for your choice of seating times. Spectacular wines; spectacular setting.

25600 Loma Prieta Ave., Los Gatos. 408-234-2079, munsvineyard.com. 

Why Some Santa Cruz Candidates Aren’t Door-Knocking in 2020 Election

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Why Some Santa Cruz Candidates Aren’t Door-Knocking in 2020 Election

Compared with previous cycles, political campaigning has been a little different in the 2020 election.

The novel coronavirus that spurred the Covid-19 pandemic has killed at least 218,000 Americans since February. And, of course, all that is happening in spite of the shutdown measures, including in Santa Cruz County, where the disease has killed 23 people and led to 181 people being hospitalized.

In the race for Santa Cruz County’s 1st District supervisor seat, none of that has stopped each of the two candidates from walking precincts to connect with voters. However, both incumbent Supervisor John Leopold and challenger Manu Koenig have been donning masks, knocking on doors and backing up several feet before anyone answers. Voters have been eager to talk, Koenig explains. “We’ve found that people are really receptive,” he says.

Leopold, for his part, says that about 90% of the times he knocks on a door someone answers it. Some voters will put a mask on before answering; some do not, he says. Others ask him to simply leave the political literature on the doormat, so they can read it later. “It’s a very unusual campaign. Obviously in the times we’re in, everything’s unusual,” Leopold says.

The pandemic has caused politicians at all levels to change how they run. At the national level, organizers cancelled a recently scheduled presidential debate because of President Donald Trump’s Covid-19 diagnosis. On the other side of the presidential race, the campaign to elect Democratic nominee Joe Biden announced Oct. 1 that it would resume precinct walking in some swing states. The news came after months of putting many aspects of in-person campaigning on hold.

In the Santa Cruz City Council race, the pandemic created a split in terms of strategy. Councilmember Martine Watkins—a former mayor, who’s running for reelection—is one of six candidates who decided not to knock on doors this year.

She says she takes no issue with other politicians who took different tacks, but she made her call jointly with her family and with her campaign staff.

“We’re really trying to lead with public health and safety in that way and try to respect people’s space,” Watkins says.

Meanwhile, three other City Council candidates have, in fact, been knocking on doors.

City Councilmember Sandy Brown, nonprofit executive Kayla Kumar, and nonprofit media director Kelsey Hill have all been traversing neighborhoods in an effort to get to know voters face to face. Like Leopold and Koenig, they say they’ve been masking up, keeping their distance and picking up positive feedback along the way from interested voters. The door-to-door efforts have been rather limited, compared to other years, though, Brown says.

Hill says she thinks many Santa Cruzans are experiencing “Zoom fatigue” from months of predominantly digital interactions.

“It feels like people have a hunger to connect with the candidates they’re voting for,” she says.

Additionally, there are five other candidates in the City Council field: grant writer Shebreh Kalantari-Johnson, Downtown Association Operations Director Sonja Brunner, scientist Elizabeth Conlan, homeless activist Alicia Kuhl and nonprofit executive director Maria Cadenas. Some of these candidates have been dropping off door hangers and other literature at people’s houses. But they all say they’ve decided to forgo door-knocking this election season due to concerns about limiting the spread of Covid-19.

In total, there are nine Santa Cruz City Council candidates. All of them say year’s unusual circumstances have forced them to adjust their strategies. For instance, the pandemic puts a higher premium on Zoom forums and social media, they say.

“It’s just a different campaign,” Cadenas says. “We’re doing a lot more Zooms and video calls and using social media, phone banking—whatever we can do to connect with people.”

How the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk Is Surviving Tough Times

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How the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk Is Surviving Tough Times

The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk has reshuffled its offerings in hopes of dealing with the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic. 

While all of their rides have been shuttered since March, the Boardwalk has recently started holding drive-in movie nights on the corner of Beach and Third streets, near the river.

“We have sold out every date thus far, and have added additional movies to the lineup,” said Karley Pope, director of sales and promotions.

Because of coronavirus precautions, moviegoers must stay in their vehicles before and during the movie unless using the restroom.

The Boardwalk has also started up, for the month of October, “Hoppy Hours,” beer pairings at their Brews at the Beach location. Visitors can buy Bay Area craft beers paired with food prepared by the Boardwalk’s event chef.

Additionally, the Boardwalk is promoting Halloween at the Boardwalk, where children can trick-or-treat at various open food and retail locations as an alternative to traditional trick-or-treating in their neighborhoods during the pandemic.

A handful of arcade games, including Skeeball, Pac-Man, Guitar Hero, Injustice, air hockey and crane games, are open for outdoor participation.

On weekends midway games such as Milk Bottles, Ring-a-Bottle and Speed Pitch are in operation.

Pope also said some of the Boardwalk’s food and merchandise vendors are operating throughout the week.

Meanwhile, the Santa Cruz Big Trees Pacific Railroad has continued operating its train between the Boardwalk and Felton’s Roaring Camp. 

Shely Stryker of Felton and her son, Jordan, 7, took the round trip with a stop at the Boardwalk over the weekend.

“We’ve ridden the train before and we love it,” she said. “I just felt it was important to support these local businesses that help keep operations like this up and running.”

For event information and to reserve your spot at the drive-in movies at the Boardwalk, visit: beachboardwalk.com/Events.

UCSC Produces Podcast About 1989 Loma Prieta Earthquake

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UCSC Produces Podcast About 1989 Loma Prieta Earthquake

Daniel J. Story was a second-grader living in the Midwest when the Loma Prieta Earthquake struck California on Oct. 17, 1989. He recalls it flashing on the news, and his teacher being worried about people she knew in the area.

But Story admits he did not know much else about the disaster—including the fact that the epicenter of the 7.1 quake was in Santa Cruz County.

“I’d always thought of it as the 1989 San Francisco Earthquake,” Story said. “There are good reasons for that; the greatest loss of life was there, for sure. But not everyone knows that it actually hit hardest right here.”

Story, the digital scholarship librarian for UCSC, is series producer of the new documentary podcast “Stories from the Epicenter,” which will be released in full on Saturday, Oct. 17, the 31st anniversary of the quake. The podcast will have 10 parts, each focusing on specific regions and aspects of the disaster, which killed 63 people and injured 3,457.

The project formed after Story was assigned to work on a special digital exhibit for the quake’s 30th anniversary last year. He was pointed toward a collection of archived audio interviews that were done in 1990 by oral history students, who had been asked to interview people about their earthquake experiences.

“It didn’t quite fit into the exhibit, but I just found the interviews so compelling,” Story said. “I thought it would be great to do something with them.”

Having a background in podcasts, Story, who had recently earned his Ph.D. and moved to the area, assembled a small team of students to work on the project. He also partnered up with the Santa Cruz Museum of Art and History, the Pajaro Valley Historical Association and Santa Cruz Public Libraries.

Story says, initially, the documentary was only going to be a few episodes long. But the more people he spoke with, the bigger the project became.

“I’d interview one person and they’d say, ‘This is a great idea. You should talk to this other person.’ And I couldn’t help myself … I think in the end, we ended up with just under 30 interviews—and those were just the new ones,” he said.

One archival interview in particular stood out. Barbara Garcia, founder of Salud Para La Gente, was recorded by a student in 1990. The “compelling” interview prompted the podcast team to dedicate one full episode to Watsonville.

UCSC alumna Madeline Maria Carpou took the helm of the episode, which delves into Watsonville’s complicated response to the quake, focusing on the Latinx community.

“After doing some research … it really became clear that Watsonville was the community hit hardest,” Carpou said, “and that there was a more nuanced story to tell.”

In addition to the Barbara Garcia interview, the team reached out to current Watsonville Mayor Rebecca Garcia, who recalled what she and others went through in the days, months and years following the disaster. Emergency response had been lacking, and the already critical housing shortage for the town’s immigrant population ballooned.

“Barbara and Rebecca put so much of their lives into helping the community,” Carpou said. “I could sense their frustrations in dealing with the city, the county …. It was so difficult, really like beating their heads against a hard wall. But they were so dedicated. They just kept getting things done.”

Carpou said that working on “Stories from the Epicenter” has been an enlightening experience. She, along with Digital Scholarship Student Assistant Thomas Sawano, were the primary co-producers along with Story.

“It was very collaborative,” she said. “We all came from different backgrounds, and this was our first podcast project… but it came together really well.”

A free launch event for “Stories from the Epicenter” will be held Friday at 5:30pm on Zoom, with a moderated discussion, clips from the podcast and a Q&A session. Registration is required and capacity is limited.

Story admits there have been moments when he wondered if 2020 was the right time to release the podcast. The Covid-19 pandemic has prompted many local people to draw comparisons to the earthquake and its effect on the community.

“Overall, though, I feel like it can be quite helpful to think about it,” he said. “You get a window into how people addressed these types of problems.”

Added Carpou: “It’s cathartic, in a way. We can look back and think, ‘It was awful, but we got through it.’ I think we all need to remember that right now.”

The first two episodes of “Stories From the Epicenter” are now available to stream on multiple podcast platforms. The final eight episodes will be added Saturday. For more info, visit: guides.library.ucsc.edu/DS/DSC/Projects/Epicenter.

Santa Cruz County Plans to Reshape Public Defender Office

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Santa Cruz County Plans to Reshape Public Defender Office

Santa Cruz County officials are mulling a plan to retool the county’s public defender’s office, transitioning from the current private delivery system to a public one.

The move comes as the county’s contract with Biggam, Christensen and Minslof (BCM)—which has provided indigent criminal defense for 45 years—is set to expire in 2022. Contracts for two other law firms also appointed to provide indigent criminal defense—Page, Salisbury & Dudley, and Wallraff & Associates—expire at the same time.

Under the proposed plan, a chief public defender appointed by the County Board of Supervisors would oversee public defender attorneys, all of whom would be county employees.

Private attorneys would handle conflicts, criminal appeals and post-conviction issues.

County officials say the plan would allow them to make sure the firms are living up to expectations, and would allow the public defender to work with agencies that can help clients, such as the Health Services Agency, Human Services Department and Probation Department.

In addition, bringing the public defender’s office under the county’s jurisdiction would allow it to hire 15% more attorneys, thus providing more consistent representation, county officials say.

The supervisors on Oct. 6 tabled the issue until November to give county staff time to meet with the public defenders and other “justice partners” such as the District Attorney’s Office, Superior Court Judges and the Sheriff’s Office.

The supervisors also directed staff to find a way to hire the public defenders currently employed by the three law firms.

The county budgets a total of $13 million for public defender services, which is doled out in monthly installments, said acting County Administrative Officer Nicole Coburn.

BCM is currently invoicing $631,753.16 per month for a total of just over $7.5 million. It also receives about $222,800 annually to run the Clean Slate Program.

The proposed transition comes at the recommendation of the Boston-based Sixth Amendment Center, which conducted a study of the county’s services for criminal defendants who cannot afford their own attorneys.

According to the report, the flat-fee contracts paid to the three law firms have meant that no one person or department is accountable for indigent defense services. The contracts also lack accountability measures that would allow county staff to gauge the effectiveness of the services, the report says.

The report did not accuse any of the defense firms of wrongdoing. It does state, however, that flat-fee contracts can create situations in which law firms could focus on reducing costs rather than acting in the best interests of their clients.

The current model also leads to excessive caseloads due to inadequate staffing, the report states. Defendants in felony cases often do not have continuous representation for the same reason.

In addition, the flat-fee contracts have meant that the public defender law firms have not invested in the necessary technology to manage their cases, including an integrated case management system, the report states.

Larry Biggam, who runs the law firm with his partners Jerry Christensen and Jon Minslof, said that making the transition in the midst of Covid-19 restrictions—when most trials and increasing numbers of cases are delayed—would be adding fuel to the fire.

“To put a transition into this period would be chaotic,” he said. 

Bigham also wants to ensure that his staff of 26 attorneys will be hired. That is important, he said, because of the knowledge of thousands of cases and client relationships they would bring with them.

One of the biggest concerns for Biggam is a proposal to end his firm’s “good cause” termination clause—meaning county officials need a reason to end its services. 

Instead, county officials are proposing an at-will contract for the public defender, under which employees may be terminated at any time for any legal reason.

County officials say such a clause allows them to hold the public defender’s office accountable for the services it provides.

Coburn said that most counties throughout California have at-will contracts for their public defenders. In Santa Cruz, the county counsel and health officer have such contracts, Coburn said, pointing out that only the Board of Supervisors has the power to terminate them.

Coburn stressed that the county has no concerns about the performance of the current public defender.

“It’s just not a best practice,” she said. “There is the potential for creating problems.”

Biggam counters that keeping a good-cause contract keeps the public defender insulated from political pressure.

“As a private law firm, we control the matter and means of providing services,” he said. “They say, ‘You’re not accountable.’ We say, ‘That means we’re independent.’ When they use the word ‘accountability,’ red flag. That means they want control.”

Coburn said the transition has been in the works since 2016. She also said the county plans to hire current attorneys employed by BCM.

“This has been under discussion for a long time in terms of trying to transition to something else so that we can prepare for the future and prepare for the succession,” she said.

Biggam acknowledges that the county has always planned to transition to a public model. But it is the way the transition has gone that concerns them.

Biggam and Christensen, along with Superior Court judges Paul Burdick and Tim Volkmann all said during the Oct. 6 meeting that the Sixth Amendment investigation and recommendations came without asking either the public defenders or the judges for their input.

“All of a sudden you have a real chance of taking and gutting a very vibrant, very together office because of your foolishness of not understanding what really goes on over here,” Biggam said.

Christensen agreed.

“We have been really marginalized from this transition process, and it is really problematic,” he said.

Judge Burdick praised the current public defenders, saying that he has never seen a problem with their services and knows no instance of reversals due to ineffective counsel.

“There is a better way to do this, and I think you can find a better way to do this if you involve the court in the process,” Burdick said. 

Since the meeting, Coburn says she has reached out to Biggam and Christensen and plans on doing the same with the judges.

“We all have the same goal and that’s to strengthen the system,” she said. “We’re all focused on the future and creating the best model for Santa Cruz County.”

Exploring the California Ballot Measures: Rent Control, App-Based Drivers

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Exploring the California Ballot Measures: Rent Control, App-Based Drivers

Editor’s note: This is the third entry in a series that will explore the California propositions going before voters in the Nov. 3 election. 

California voters will make a decision on 12 propositions in the upcoming election. The initiatives cover various issues, including the California tax code, rent control and voting rights. Here’s a look at three of the 12 propositions:

Proposition 20

This initiative would amend several criminal sentencing and supervision laws passed between 2011 and 2016. It would restrict parole for certain offenses currently considered nonviolent and authorize felony sentences for certain offenses treated as misdemeanors.

Law enforcement would also be required to collect DNA samples from adults convicted of certain misdemeanors.

The fiscal impact would likely be an increase in state and local correctional, court and law enforcement costs in the tens of millions of dollars annually.

Supporters of Prop. 20, led by the Keep California Safe campaign, say that the initiative closes a “loophole” in the law that allows offenders such as child molesters and other sexual predators to be released from jail early. They also say the DNA collection will aid investigators in solving rapes, murders and other serious crimes. Supporters include U.S. Rep. Devin Nunes (R-Calif.), the Republican Party of California and multiple law enforcement unions.

The No on Prop. 20 group, also known as Californians Against the Prison Spending Scam, says the initiative will pull the state back into a time of mass incarceration and harsh sentencing. They say Prop. 20 could slash mental health treatment and rehabilitation—proven strategies to reduce repeat crime. 

Opponents of the measure include Ana Zamora, director of prosecutorial reform for the ACLU of Northern California, former California Gov. Jerry Brown (D) and Maureen Washburn, a policy analyst for the Center on Juvenile and Criminal Justice, among others.

Proposition 21

This proposition, if passed, would expand local governments’ authority to enact rent control on residential properties over 15 years old.

Put on the ballot via a petition with more than 600,000 signatures, it would allow area governments to cap the rent increase on rental-controlled properties at 15% over the first three years of a new tenancy—in addition to any other increase allowed by a local ordinance. 

It would exempt landlords who own no more than two homes.

The overall fiscal impact could translate to a reduction in state and local revenues to tens of millions of dollars per year. Depending on actions by local communities, revenue losses could vary.

Advocates say that it will help with the state’s homelessness issues and spur the creation of a coalition of elected leaders that will address the topic of homelessness.

On the other side of the issue, opponents say that Prop. 21 will deepen California’s housing crisis. Opponents say that Prop. 21 undermines the nation’s strongest statewide rent control law—capping rent increases for most properties at 5% plus inflation, or 10%, whichever is lower—and that it will cost jobs, reduce home values and put a cap on new house construction.

Proposition 22

This measure, if passed by voters, would classify app-based drivers, such as those driving for Lyft and Uber, as “independent contractors” instead of “employees,” overriding Assembly Bill 5, passed last year. It would then provide those drivers other types of compensation and protections in place of traditional workplace benefits.

The fiscal impact would translate to a minor increase in state income taxes paid by ride-share and delivery company drivers and investors. 

If passed, drivers would not receive the standard benefits and protections that businesses must provide employees such as minimum wage, overtime and unemployment insurance. Instead, they would be entitled to other compensation such as minimum earnings, healthcare subsidies and vehicle insurance.

Opponents say that those drivers should receive standard benefits and protections that other businesses have to provide employees.

Supporters say that drivers would have their choices diminished as to how much work—and when and where—they are allowed to take on if they are reclassified as employees. That would mean, supporters say, less app-based drivers on the roads, and, in turn, higher fares. 

Learn more about all of the statewide ballot measures at the California Secretary of State website.

Click here to see all of our ongoing 2020 election coverage.

Explore Santa Cruz 2020

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Explore Santa Cruz 2020

Every year, we publish a Visitor’s Guide to help people discover the best things to do and places to go. But in 2020, the Covid-19 pandemic has devastated tourism at a time when local businesses need support more than ever. How to help?

Well, first of all, you’ll find we’ve revamped the format of this issue considerably. While we may not be getting a lot of visitors right now, hopefully this guide can help locals explore Santa Cruz County, too. We’ve also focused on the industries that are open for business and most need help from all of us: the restaurants that are trying to make ends meet with a combination of takeout and primarily outdoor dining, and the local shops that have rewired themselves for shopper safety during the pandemic, but need to get people back in the door.

You’ll find their stories of adaptation and survival here, too—whether it’s the local wine industry that’s endured fire in the Santa Cruz Mountains or the art community that has had to quickly adjust when its biggest event of the year, the Open Studios Art Tour, became impossible to put on due to Covid-19 concerns.

For many of us, the saving grace during the long lockdown was being able to get outside. While the fires and subsequent smoky air took that away for a while, everyone is getting outdoors again, and this issue also features a lot of ways to do that. From trails to farmers markets to bike rentals to surf spots, this is the Santa Cruz County guide we all need right now.

STEVE PALOPOLI | EDITOR


Read All Explore Santa Cruz 2020 Coverage:

Guides:

Featured stories:

Full issue:

To browse the full flip-through edition of the Explore Santa Cruz 2020 magazine, click here.

Explore Santa Cruz 2020: A Guide to Santa Cruz Dining

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Explore Santa Cruz 2020: A Guide to Santa Cruz Dining

This guide is part of Explore Santa Cruz 2020.

AMERICAN

515 Kitchen & Cocktails

515 Cedar St., Santa Cruz, 831-425-5051, 515santacruz.com

One of the best places for cocktails, where mixologists work with loads of ingredients (have you ever seen so many types of bitters?) and present a dizzying array of house recipes. Small plates as well as dinner entrées are thoughtfully crafted in this creatively designed venue. Cool staff and patrons. 

Alderwood

155 Walnut Ave, Santa Cruz, 831-588-3238, alderwoodsantacruz.com

Located in downtown Santa Cruz, Alderwood is a coastal steakhouse with dining-room, bar and chef’s-counter seating. Open for happy hour, dinner and late-night dining on Friday and Saturday.

Aptos St. BBQ  

8059 Aptos St., Aptos, 831-662-1721, aptosstbbq.com 

Aptos St. BBQ has a few recipes for success: sweet and smoky barbecue sauce, a large craft beer list, a roadhouse vibe, live blues nightly, mouthwatering Texas-style tri-tip, hot links, ribs, and more. 

Avenue Cafe

427 Capitola Ave., Capitola, 831-515-7559; 219 F Mt. Hermon Road, Scotts Valley, 831-515-7505 

This neighborhood restaurant in a quaint Capitola cottage, and a new location in Scotts Valley, is a great place to meet family and friends for a delicious traditional breakfast or lunch. Patrons line up to enjoy the award-winning Eggs Benedict.

Back Nine Grill & Bar

555 Hwy. 17, Santa Cruz, 831-423-5000, backninegrill.com

Inspired by rich local history—the restaurant sits adjacent to Pasatiempo Golf Club designed by Alister MacKenzie in 1929—and the style of food preparation dating back to Rancho Carbonero Mexican Land Grant on which the land now resides.

Beach Hut Deli 

381 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-431-6921, beachhutdeli.com/store/santa-cruz

Delicious hot and cold sandwiches, salads and snacks with a tiki vibe. 

Bistro One Twelve at the Tannery

1060 River St., Santa Cruz, 831-854-7458, bistro112sc.com 

A community gathering spot in an artist live-work community with local, seasonal breakfast and lunch; vegan and vegetarian-focused (some meat); open evenings during events.

Bittersweet Bistro 

787 Rio Del Mar Blvd., Aptos, 831-662-9799 bittersweetbistro.com

American bistro cuisine with Mediterranean influences features a special emphasis on local and organic produce. 

Bruno’s Bar and Grill 

230 Mt. Hermon Road, Scotts Valley, 831-438-2227, brunosbarandgrill.com

American bar and grill with a bottomless mimosa brunch and a famous, big Bloody Mary that includes too many toppings to list here, but it is a work of art—think Leaning Tower of Pisa—that will not leave you hungry or thirsty. 

The Buttery

702 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-458-3020, butterybakery.com 

This beloved bakery has it all, plus a loyal crowd to prove it. They show up for cakes, pies, tarts, cookies, plus creative sandwiches, hot breakfast items and so much more.  

Café Cruz

2621 41st Ave., Soquel, 831-476-3801, cafecruz.com 

One of the most successful restaurants in the area, Café Cruz stands out for its commitment to serving reliably delicious, locally and sustainably sourced cuisine in a lively atmosphere. Coupled with a superior wine list, this is a culinary haven.

Café Gratitude

103 Lincoln St., Santa Cruz, 831-427-9583, cafegratitude.com  

A “plant-based” culinary romp. Fresh, organic food is served at this unique eatery. After sampling its vast list of vegetarian treats and drinks, and its inventive food creations, you’ll want to take home a cookbook.  

Café Rio

131 Esplanade, Aptos, 831-688-8917, caferioaptos.com 

This restaurant on the beach is a great date night spot with romantic views, delectable seafood and filet mignon. Across the courtyard, you’ll find their casual spot, Flats Bistro, for artisan pizza, gourmet coffee and more.  

Chill Out Café  

860 41st Ave., Capitola, 831-477-0543

Known for its breakfast burritos—20 to choose from—plus sandwiches, salads and smoothies, this Pleasure Point beach shack serves breakfast all day and evening, plus a good selection of espresso drinks that you can enjoy on the garden patio.

Cremer House  

6256 Hwy. 9, Felton, 831-335-3976, cremerhouse.com

An American restaurant and alehouse located in Felton’s oldest building that has been carefully preserved and restored. It’s the ideal place to gather with friends and family after a hike in the redwoods for a craft beer or homemade soda and a hearty meal.

Crepe Place

1134 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-429-6994, thecrepeplace.com  

The Crepe Place has been serving a giant selection of delectable crepes since 1973. A locals’ favorite, they also dish up enormous salads and weekend breakfast. One of the best small live music venues in the area, the outdoor garden and an extensive selection of single malts also make this place stand out. 

Crow’s Nest    

2218 East Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz, 831-476-4560, crowsnest-santacruz.com 

This very popular restaurant in the Yacht Harbor wins points for its large menu of fresh seafood, steaks, chicken, and appetizers—but it’s known for excellent service and incredible views. Comedy and live music, too.

Davenport Roadhouse

1 Davenport Ave., Davenport, 831-426-8801, davenportroadhouse.com 

From breakfast to lunch and dinner, this tasty restaurant in the seaside town of Davenport is well worth the gorgeous 10-minute drive up Highway 1 from Santa Cruz. Live music plays Tuesday and Saturday nights.

East End Gastropub

1501 41st Ave., Capitola, 831-475-8010, eastendpub.com

This refreshingly refined sister of West End Tap offers new American dishes that match well with the house craft beer. Creative takes on pizza, burgers, salads, and entrees like pork belly and strip steak.

Heavenly Roadside Cafe    

1210 Mt. Hermon Road, Scotts Valley, 831-335-1210, heavenlyroadsidecafe.com 

A casual place to find modern takes on classic favorites made with fresh ingredients. Breakfast options abound, or stop in for their John Wayne burger topped with bbq sauce and housemade onion rings from their burger bar.

Hindquarter Bar & Grille   

303 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-426-7770, thehindquarter.com 

Hindquarter’s Smokey Platter has a bit of everything, including Chicago baby back ribs. Aged Angus top sirloin steaks, catch-of-the-day fish, live Maine lobster, pastas, burgers and steak-cut french fries are the restaurant’s specialties. Meats are house-smoked.

Hollins House

20 Clubhouse Road, Santa Cruz, 831-459-9177, thehollinshouse.com/restaurant 

An elegant dinner house at the Pasatiempo Golf Course, the 1930’s building is filled with earthy charm. On a cool night, enjoy a drink by the fireplace before settling in to your table, or on a warm night relish the views of the Monterey Bay from the outdoor patio.

Holy Smokes Country BBQ

2-1505 East Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz, 831-471-8787, holysmokescountrybbqandcatering.com

This popular caterer has opened a restaurant in East Cliff Village. Enjoy your favorite ribs, brisket, chicken, and more, either on site or around the corner at East Cliff Brewing Co.

Home

3101 N. Main St., Soquel, 831-431-6131, homesoquel.com

In charming Soquel Village, Home serves up the finest local, seasonal veggies and local meats prepared by talented Chef Brad Briske. 

Ideal Bar & Grill  

106 Beach St., Santa Cruz, 831-423-5271, idealbarandgrill.com 

Fish, steaks and pasta dishes shine at this venue, where you can reach out and almost touch the sand. A fun, you’re-on-vacation scene prevails. There’s salsa dancing on the patio if your timing is right.

Linwood’s Bar & Grill at Chaminade  

1 Chaminade Lane, Santa Cruz, 831-475-5600, chaminade.com 

At one of the more dramatic views, Linwood’s Bar & Grill brings the local agricultural bounty to your plate accompanied by wines of the Central California Coast. Live music some weekends. 

Malone’s Grille 

4402 Scotts Valley Drive, Scotts Valley, 831-438-2244, malonesgrille.com

Burgers, steaks, cocktails, and karaoke. Enough said.

MacKenzie Bar & Grill

18 Clubhouse Road, Santa Cruz, 831-459-9162, pasatiempo.com 

Enjoy a picturesque setting for breakfast or lunch near a fireplace, or with a view of the Monterey Bay. Post-golf drinks and appetizers are especially pleasant on the veranda near Pasatiempo’s ninth green. Breakfast is served all day.

Michael’s on Main   

2591 S. Main St., Soquel, 831-479-9777, michaelsonmain.net 

Cutting-edge comfort food with classics such as Yankee Style Pot Roast are featured alongside well-done dishes, like Braised Short Ribs. The bar is a popular spot to catch live music any night of the week, and they have a new tap room to keep the good times flowing.

Oswald  

121 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-423-7427, oswaldrestaurant.com 

One of the area’s finest restaurants. From fresh seafood entrées to fine meats, Oswald does everything well and tastefully. The presentations, decor and excellent wine list all add up to a memorable meal—and evening.

Paradise Beach Grille    

215 Esplanade, Capitola, 831-476-4900, paradisebeachgrille.com

One of the best restaurants in Capitola, this casual culinary paradise overlooks the bay. You’ll find flavors of the Hawaiian Islands as well as authentic California cuisine. The extensive local wine list is a plus—so are the great martinis.

Persephone   

7945 Soquel Drive, Aptos, 831-612-6511, persephonerestaurant.com

A fine dining establishment focused on offering the best and freshest ingredients Santa Cruz County has to offer.

Pretty Good Advice   

3070 Porter St., Soquel, 831-226-2805, prettygoodadvicesoquel.com

Hyper-local, fast-casual dining spot run by not one, but four renowned chefs. The ever-evolving menu items are all made in house, from scratch. Gather on the sunny patio or grab something to go.

Red Restaurant  

200 Locust St., Santa Cruz, 831-425-1913, redrestaurantandbarsc.com 

In a spacious room suffused with red light, a bar with comfy furniture flows into the restaurant where locals indulge in reasonably priced sandwiches, sliders, battered salmon and chips, and more. Home to a late-night bar scene, the earlier hours make for a mellow, romantic experience and an ideal place for conversation.

River Café    

415 River St., Suite K, Santa Cruz, 831-420-1280, rivercafesantacruz.com   

This café offers organic, farm-fresh meals. An extensive panini menu makes it a great lunch option, and make sure to grab a housemade organic cookie to satisfy your sweet tooth. 

Sanderlings at Seascape Beach Resort

One Seascape Resort Drive, Aptos, 831-662-7120, sanderlingsrestaurant.com

Elegant-yet-casual dining, an ocean view, and California Coastal cuisine, including selections of seafood, steaks, pasta, and other golden state classics.

Severino’s Bar & Grill    

7500 Old Dominion Court, Aptos, 831-688-8987, seacliffinn.com

The comfortable bar-restaurant also has outdoor seating along a koi pond. A designed-to-please menu features seafood, pastas and a variety of meat dishes. Severino’s is a relaxing spot for breakfast, brunch, lunch, dinner, and happy hour. The 10-12 ounce New York Steak is delicious. 

Shadowbrook

1750 Wharf Road, Capitola, 831-475-1511, shadowbrook-capitola.com

A destination restaurant, the lush Shadowbrook grounds are in a beautiful creekside setting. Ride the antique cable car from the top of the multi-level restaurant or walk the path. The bar can be crowded and fun, with music and a pizza oven for casual dining. Dining rooms range from romantic and intimate to ideal for group gatherings. Many classic dishes and California influences on the fine menu.

Sid’s Smokehouse   

10110 Soquel Drive, Aptos, 831-662-2227, sidssmokehouse.com 

This hotspot boasts wood-fired pizza, slow-cooked barbecue favorites—from pulled pork to ribs—and some incredibly tasty wood-fired mac ’n’ cheese.

Soif

105 Walnut Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-423-2020, soifwine.com 

Soif is aptly named. “Thirst” in French, it’s a wine-lover’s heaven, with a top selection of wines by the glass and an adjacent wine shop. Foodies will appreciate the seasonal dishes, prepared with finesse, and jazz on Mondays is a treat.

Solaire Restaurant & Bar

611 Ocean St., Santa Cruz, 831-600-4545, solairerestaurant.com 

With a poolside bar, Solaire at Hotel Paradox gives customers a modern, chic experience that can be hard to find in Santa Cruz. This spot promises a level of service customers can expect from a fine hotel, yet is as relaxed as a vacation should be.

Sotola Bar & Grill

231 Esplanade Suite 102, Capitola, 831-854-2800, sotolabarandgrill.com

California farmstead local cuisine made with farm-fresh ingredients and local seafood. Full bar, great patio and fantastic views. 

Stonehouse Bar and Grill   

6001 La Madrona Drive, Scotts Valley, 831-440-1000, hiltonsantacruz.com 

Winning raves for its creative California cuisine, Stonehouse—located inside the Hilton—also boasts a full bar and offers a vast selection of some of the area’s finest local wines and signature brews.

Süda

3910 Portola Drive, Santa Cruz, 831-600-7068, eatsuda.com 

With a focus on well-prepared, healthy food and taking care of the customer, Süda has a great vibe. The well-designed space features indoor and outdoor seating, a bar-restaurant combo, and a well-rounded menu that includes expertly seasoned fish tacos, pasta, meats, amazing burgers, and more.

Surfrider Café    

429 Front St., Santa Cruz, 831-713-5258, surfridercafe.net 

You can’t get much more “Santa Cruz” than this. It’s a surf cafe in a surf town, with a bevy of traditional American sandwiches and burgers. There’s beer and wine, a friendly atmosphere, and it’s downright cozy. Consider this: Organic Veggie Stir Fry (with tofu, chicken, shrimp or tilapia).

Vim Dining & Desserts 

2238 Mission St., Santa Cruz, 831-515-7033, vimsantacruz.com 

Chef Jesikah Stolaroff crafts New American cuisine, drawing inspiration from her family’s Italian roots, as well as innovative desserts. 

Walnut Avenue Cafe

106 Walnut Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-457-2804, walnutavenuecafe.com

Walnut Avenue Cafe specializes in warm, swift service, excellent espresso drinks and well-endowed plates of freshly-made, classic American breakfast. Friendly service rules at Walnut Avenue Cafe.

The Water Street Grill

503 Water St., Santa Cruz, 831-332-6122, thewaterstreetgrill.com

This family-owned restaurant features farm-to-table food, a wine bar and a beer bar. 

West End Tap & Kitchen

334 Ingalls St., Santa Cruz, 831-471-8115, westendtap.com 

With hints of French and Japanese flavors, co-owner Geoff Hargrave goes beyond typical tap room fare. Located in the bustling complex on Ingalls Street, West End Tap has become a destination on Santa Cruz’s Westside.

Whale City Bakery

490 Hwy. 1, Davenport, 831-423-9009, whalecitybakery.com

Stop in for a ham and cheese croissant before hitting the beach, or end your day with tacos and live music on Thursdays. Featuring breakfast, lunch and dinner as well as a large selection of pies and baked goods, Whale City Bakery has it all. 

Wharf House

Capitola Wharf, Capitola, 831-476-3534, wharfhouse.com

A view accompanies breakfast, lunch and dinner. Full bar, live music on weekends on the upper deck. 

Wingstop   

845 Almar Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-454-9464

Wings, wings and more wings! With more than 10 flavors, and options for sauces and sides, there’s something for everyone. Each order is made fresh and served up piping hot.

Wooden Nickel Bar and Grill

1819 Freedom Blvd., Freedom, 831-724-2600

The Wooden Nickel offers traditional American cuisine, big french fries and crispy onion rings, all for reasonable prices with daily lunch and dinner specials.

Woodie’s Café    

25 Municipal Wharf, Santa Cruz, 831-421-9410 

Inspired by Woodie’s on the Wharf, Woodie’s Café is a fun, casual and affordable eatery. Here you’ll find Killer Burgers, Righteous Ribs, Screamin’ Starters, and Epic Entrées.

Your Place

1719 Mission St., Santa Cruz, 831-426-3564, yourplacesc.com 

Farm-to-table food, and lovingly run by two partners who make each guest feel personally invited. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are a delicious value. There’s a full bar, and even the menu has personality. 


Zachary’s Restaurant

819 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-427-0646, zacharyssantacruz.com 

Locals know how to ease into the day at this bustling morning hangout. The omelets are impressive, but actually, everything on the menu is bountiful and done well. Try Mike’s Mess.

Zelda’s   

203 Esplanade, Capitola, 831-475-4900, zeldasonthebeach.com 

Happy hour delights, plus live music many evenings, lobster night and more. Nab anything from appetizers to fish and meats and dine on the deck or indoors.

ITALIAN

Aldo’s Harbor Restaurant 

616 Atlantic Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-426-3736

Plenty take note of the great breakfast menu, but lunch or dinner on the harborside deck are great, too. Aldo’s has been heralded for its amazing Eggs Benedict, calamari and fresh salmon, but don’t stop there. 

Bella Roma Caffe

316 Capitola Ave., Capitola, 831-464-2608, bellaromacaffe.com

At this welcoming restaurant in Capitola Village, the Italian owner-chef of Bella Roma has gathered his favorite recipes from friends and family to comprise the menu so favored by regulars. Gluten-free or wheat pasta, and plenty of entrées without pasta, too.

Café Mare    

740 Front St., Santa Cruz, 831-458-1212, cafemare.com 

A downtown treasure and an escape from trends. At this authentic Italian ristorante, the recipes come from the heart. Great wine list and friendly staff. 

Caruso’s Tuscan Cuisine    

115 San Jose Ave., Capitola, 831-465-9040, carusos-capitola.com  

Authentic Italian cuisine where every dish has its own distinct style. There’s no shortage of variety either: lamb shanks, sea bass, pizza and, of course, delicious pasta.

La Pizzeria Bufala

725 Front St., Santa Cruz, 831-999-0301, pizzerialabufala.com

Led by Chef Sandro Costanza and his wife Luciana Costanza, this spot aims to bring back the Neapolitan tradition of pizza making.

La Posta    

538 Seabright Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-457-2782, lapostarestaurant.com 

Seabright’s cozy hotspot continues to win raves for its distinctly original creations that are the refined handiwork of a kitchen dedicated to excellence. The housemade bread is superb, and there won’t be a mediocre glass of wine in the house.

Lago Di Como    

21490 East Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz, 831-454-8247, lagodicomoristorante.com 

This popular eatery features traditional Northern Italian cuisine and an impressive wine list. Check out their wood-fired pizzas.

Lillian’s Italian Kitchen   

1148 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-425-2288, lilliansitaliankitchen.com 

Mamma Mia—you won’t walk away hungry. Lillian’s is friendly and affordable, and all the food comes from recipes handed down to the owner from his family. Customers get a fascinating taste of old-fashioned favorites in bountiful portions.

Ristorante Avanti   

1917 Mission St., Santa Cruz, 831-427-0135, avantisantacruz.com  

One of the area’s most favored Italian restaurants wins high marks for its consistently exemplary cuisine, service that shines as bright, and a beautifully designed, airy dining room.

Ristorante Italiano    

555 Soquel Ave., Suite 150, Santa Cruz, 831-458-2321, ristoranteitalianosc.com  

This Italian venue has many devoted followers of its authentic cuisine, full bar, catering, and take-out. Dine under the oaks on their patio and try the Fisherman Cioppino.

Star Bene 

2-1245 East Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz, 831-479-4307, star-bene.com 

Serving both Italian and Argentinian food, this eclectic eatery delivers an at-home feeling with its generous helpings. 

Sugo Italian Pasta Bar 

1116 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-431-6965, sugoitalianpastabar.com

Authentic, handmade Italian cuisine available for dine-in, takeout and catering. 

Tramonti

528 Seabright Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-426-7248, tramontisantacruz.com  

Tramonti’s Italian chef keeps customers coming back for more. It’s casual in a pleasant, authentic Italian way, with mouthwatering lasagna, gnocchi and thin-crust pizza made with fine ingredients. Even the olive oil is a cut above.

Zoccoli’s    

1534 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-423-1711, zoccolis.com 

Going strong now for more than 60 years, Zoccoli’s is often packed with locals. The family-owned vibe and attention to detail here truly stands out. That, and everything from its cheese selection to numerous sandwich options and deli salads keeps ’em coming.

MEXICAN

Café El Palomar   

2222 East Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz, 831-477-0371, cafeelpalomar.com 

Inexpensive beachside-taqueria Mexican food and premium margaritas, this breezy location is beloved by locals. Try the chicken mole, or find any excuse to order just the homemade corn tortillas. Try Leo’s Special—shrimp, snapper, ceviche, skirt steak with rice, beans and guacamole. 

Cilantros Mexican Restaurant 

1934 Main St., Watsonville, 831-761-2161, cilantroswatsonville.com 

A festive atmosphere accompanies some terrific Mexican fare—and the entrées are abundantly portioned. Great list of appetizers and beverages. Eat this: Homemade Tortilla Soup.

El Jardín 

655 Capitola Road, Santa Cruz, 831-477-9384, eljardinrestaurant.net 

A friendly staff, unique sauces and gorgeous desserts shine at this great local restaurant. Winner of best mole sauce in a blind tasting at the Mole and Mariachi Festival. 

El Palomar   

1336 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-425-7575, elpalomarsantacruz.com 

Try the taco bar for a quick bite, dine in style in the historic dining room, or snack in the vibrant bar. It continues to win Best Mexican Restaurant in GT’s Readers’ Poll. Try: Burrito de Camarones.

Margaritaville

231 Esplanade, Capitola Village, 831-476-4366, margaritavillecapitola.com

An all-new contemporary makeover features Mexican cuisine with an accent on seafood and fresh and local ingredients. And really, there’s no other place you’d rather go if you blow out your flip-flop stepping on a pop top.

Manuel’s Restaurant

261 Center Ave., Aptos, 831-688-4848, manuelsrestaurant.com

Manuel Santana opened his restaurant in 1965 and the business has been family-operated ever since, serving traditional recipes every day with a smile.

Maya Mexican Restaurant

3115 Scotts Valley Drive, Scotts Valley, 831-438-7004, mayasv.com

Serving classic dishes from the heart of Michoacán, Mexico, the family-owned and operated Maya Mexican Restaurant won first place in the 2012 and 2013 Santa Cruz Golden Awards.

Olitas Cantina and Grill 

49B Municipal Wharf, Santa Cruz, 831-458-9393, olitassantacruz.com 

A south-of-the-border, seafood-focused menu with Yucatan and Veracruz-influenced specialties is served in this upbeat spot with views all around. Happy hour weekdays 3-6 p.m. 

Tacos Moreno    

1053 Water St., Santa Cruz, 831-429-6095; 1601 41st Ave., Capitola (next to See’s Candy), 831-464-8810  

A favorite local taqueria that offers classic Mexican fare—burritos, tacos and more. 

Taqueria Vallarta    

For locations, visit taqueriavallartaonline.com, 831-464-7022 

Large selection of Mexican meats for burritos, tacos, enchiladas and more at multiple locations around town. 

Tortilla Flats 

4616 Soquel Drive, Soquel, 831-476-1754, tortillaflatsdining.com 

From its Original Margarita to the impressive house specials, this is Mexican dining at its best. The delightful, bustling restaurant is in charming Soquel Village. Try this: Chicken Mole.    

ASIAN/SUSHI

Akira 

1222 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-600-7093, akirasantacruz.com; 105 Post Office Dr D, Aptos, 831-708-2154, akiraaptos.com 

Akira has the feel of a neighborhood hangout, and even if you don’t know anyone, you can be part of the scene. The extensive vegetarian menu and creative rolls are designed to please demanding sushi fans. 

Canton  

900 41st Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-475-8751, cantonsantacruz.com 

Specializes in Cantonese and Szechuan cuisine with Mandarin, Thai, Vietnamese, and Japanese blended in. Family recipes make flavorful use of fresh ingredients. Vegetarian-friendly. Choice beer, wine and sake selections. Happy Hour. Free WiFi.

Geisha 

200 Monterey Ave., Capitola, 831-464-3328, geishasushicapitola.com   

Geisha offers up a tasty, sustainable menu that sticks to the Seafood Watch and FishWise guides and programs, and carries local, seasonal ingredients when possible. Note the full-page vegetarian menu. 

Kaito

830 41st Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-464-2586, smilekaito.com

Spicy Miso Ramen, Ja-Ja Ramen, Shoyu Ramen—Kaito has every kind of ramen your heart could desire, and also sushi tapas for the lighter pre-evening meals.

Malabar Café/Asian Rose   

514 Front St., Santa Cruz, 831-458-3023 

The art of vegetarian Sri Lankan cooking is on display. Dig the naan bread and garlic oil, and pretty much anything on the menu. The food, wait staff, and pretty dining room has earned a strong following. It’s alcohol-free, so stop at one of the downtown bars if you’d like a drink before dinner.

Mayflower Chinese Restaurant   

3555 Clares St., Capitola, 831-476-4688, mayflowerfood.com  

This is truly authentic Chinese cuisine. Try the Sweet and Sour Pork.

May’s Sushi

1800 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-427-0201, mayssushibarandgrill.weebly.com   

From its ample cuts of sashimi to generous rolls, May’s stands out. This is a great local spot that continues to win raves. Try the Dragon Roll. 

Mobo Sushi 

105 River St., Santa Cruz, 831-425-1700, mobosushirestaurant.com 

One of the most popular sushi spots in the area delivers a huge variety of selections, all made by master chefs. Nosh on the impressive non-sushi menu items found here, too.

Naka Sushi

1200 41st Ave., Capitola, 831-479-9620, nakasushi.org 

If it’s a time-honored traditional approach to the art of sushi you’re after, look no further than chef Naka-san’s generous creations at Naka Sushi in Capitola. Try: Unagi Nigiri or anything from the nightly specials board.

Pacific Thai

1319 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-420-1700, pacificthaisantacruz.com

A downtown favorite since 2005, Pacific Thai fuses their love for Thai cuisine with boba drinks. Noodles with shrimp, salmon in a coconut milk curry, papaya salad, cold Thai tea: their lunch items are a sure favorite.

Real Thai Kitchen

1632 Seabright Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-427-2559, realthaisantacruz.com 

Real Thai Kitchen can make you feel like you’re in Thailand. The dining room is pleasantly abuzz with take-out as well as dine-in customers, and the hospitality and food are as fresh as a Thai orchid.

Sabieng Thai Cuisine

1218 Mission St., Santa Cruz, 831-425-1020, sabiengthaicuisine.com

Sabieng serves classic Thai fare in a casual environment and has won numerous awards for its outstanding food.

Sala Thai  

353 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-426-1241, salathaisantacruz.com 

Sala Thai features authentic Thai cuisine as well as traditional Vietnamese Pho.

Sapporo Ramen 

1200 41st Ave., in the New Leaf Center, Capitola, 831-475-3688, sappororamenca.com 

This relative newcomer features a variety of traditional ramen, as well as creative Japanese dishes such as scallop and pork belly skewers.

Sawasdee Thai Cuisine 

5050 Soquel Drive, Soquel, 831-462-5051, sawasdeesoquel.com 

Husband-and-wife owners Bill and Dee Hongmanee have drawn from every region of Thailand to build their menu. Their success led to the opening of Sawasdee By The Sea.

Sawasdee By The Sea 

101 Main St., Santa Cruz, 831-466-9009, sawasdeebythesea.com  

Sawasdee’s second location is right down the street from the Boardwalk. You’ll find the same great Thai food, with panoramic ocean views. The full bar and friendly staff are bonuses.

Shogun Japanese Restaurant  

1123 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-469-4477, shogunjapaneserestaurant.com   

Fully loaded menu with a vast selection of sushi rolls, plus lunch and dinner boxes. One of the bright spots along Pacific Avenue.

Star of Siam

3005 Porter St., Soquel, 831-479-0366, starofsiamsoquel.com

Serving traditional Thai cuisine in the heart of Soquel for more than 30 years, with a comfortable, open space suitable for parties and families. Open daily for lunch and dinner.

 

Sushi Garden 

820 Bay Ave., Capitola, 831-464-9192; 1441 Main St., Watsonville, 831-728-9192, sushi-garden.com 

This pretty, feel-good restaurant is known for its occasional sake-tasting parties, as well as fine sushi. Portions are plentiful and there is a large sake list. 

Yan Flower

1617 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-423-2574, yanflower.com

Located at the end of Pacific Avenue close to the Santa Cruz Wharf and Boardwalk, this popular restaurant offers made-to-order authentic Chinese cuisine to eat in or take out. 

HAWAIIAN/HAWAIIAN FUSION

Aloha Island Grille  

1700 Portola Drive, Santa Cruz, 831-479-3299, alohaislandgrille.com 

One block from the beach and 3,000 miles from Hawaii, Aloha Island Grille is known for its portions, great prices and ono (good) food.

Hula’s Bar & Grill and Tiki Lounge  

221 Cathcart St., Santa Cruz, 831-426-4852, hulastiki.com 

Massively popular due to its island feel and tasty plates like Duke’s Luau Pork Plate, Island Style Cioppino, Sweet Potato Fries and more. The full bar knocks out some good cocktails, too.

Makai Island Kitchen and Groggery 

49A Municipal Wharf, Santa Cruz, 831-466-9766, makaisantacruz.com

Located on the Santa Cruz wharf, surrounded by the beauty of the Monterey Bay, Makai Island Kitchen serves up the foods, flavors, flowers, and fun of Hawaii and beyond. 

MEDITERRANEAN/EUROPEAN

Café Sparrow 

8042 Soquel Drive, Aptos, 831-688-6238, cafesparrow.com 

“Country French” comes alive in this charm-drenched cafe for breakfast, lunch, a romantic dinner, or family get-togethers. If your idea of comfort food runs to gourmet, this is your place. 

Gabriella Café  

910 Cedar St., Santa Cruz, 831-457-1677, gabriellacafe.com   

The seductive menu continues to make Gabriella the quintessential Santa Cruz date restaurant, yet the reasonable prices make romance affordable every day. Locally sourced produce, sustainable meats and seafood, and attention to detail make Gabriella a winner. 

Laili

101 Cooper St., Santa Cruz, 831-423-4545, lailirestaurant.com

Perfect for date night, Laili serves kabobs, flatbreads and creative dishes based on contemporary Mediterranean and Afghan inspiration. Try dishes that include housemade chutneys and sauces. One of the better values downtown.

Mozaic

110 Church St., Santa Cruz, 831-454-8663, mozaicsantacruz.com 

Specializing in recipes from Greece, Lebanon, Turkey, and Sicily, Mozaic offers a full bar with specialty cocktails, and belly dancing on Friday nights. 

Nick the Greek

1133 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-431-6313, nickthegreeksj.com 

Traditional Greek street food. Gyros and Souvlaki just like the old country. 

Vasili’s Greek Restaurant 

1501A Mission St., Santa Cruz, 831-458-9808, vasilisgreekrestaurant.com 

Greek dishes that many of us know and love are made fresh at this down-to-earth restaurant that feels like a visit to a Greek taverna. Try classic Greek specialties and Greek wine. 

Zameen Mediterranean Cuisine 

7528 Soquel Drive, Aptos, 831-688-4465; 41st Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-713-5520, zameencuisine.com 

Casual dining for falafel, kebabs (including vegetarian) and spicy lamb dishes. Entrées come in three sizes and the prices are right. Beer and wine. 

BURGERS & PIZZAS

Bantam

1010 Fair Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-420-0101, bantam1010.com 

A true standout in the wave of craft pizza places, Bantam has developed a following of foodies who love the restaurant’s organic ingredients, innovative menu and reasonable prices.

Betty Burgers    

1000 41st Ave., Capitola, 831-475-5901; 505 Seabright Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-423-8190, bettyburgers.com 

Serving up delicious burgers made from Black Angus beef in two prime locations, Betty’s is a local hit. We dig the fries, onion rings and shakes. 

Betty’s Eat Inn 

1222 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-600-7056  

The sister eatery to the popular Betty Burgers adds some zest to the downtown strip, with striking aesthetics in this Santa Cruz version of a diner. Front patio seating and good bar service.

burger. 

520 Mission St., Santa Cruz, 831-425-5300; 7941 Soquel Drive, Aptos, 831-662-2811, burgerlovesbeer.com 

A modern burger place like no other, these two popular hotspots win points for California grass-fed beef, local produce and a creative menu. Check out the amazing shakes and loads of brews on tap. 

East Side Eatery  

800 41st Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-431-6058, pleasurepizzasc.com 

Across the street from sister restaurant Pleasure Pizza, East Side Eatery boasts the same great pizza, plus salads, pasta, sandwiches, burgers, and a dog-friendly outdoor patio.

Engfer Pizza Works    

537 Seabright Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-429-1856, engferpizzaworks.com 

You have to love a place that offers built-to-suit toppings, where the traditional mushroom and sausage compete with more avant-garde arrangements like broccoli and pesto. Gluten-free options.

Joe’s Pizza & Subs     

1100 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-713-5650; 841 Branciforte Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-426-5955

Great sandwiches, darn good pizza, surprisingly good Middle Eastern fare—and more. Very good value.

Kianti’s Pizza & Pasta Bar 

1100 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-469-4400, kiantis.com 

The staff dances, the food sizzles, the crowd is having fun. Try any original breakfast pizza or the traditional Italian pizza. 

Main Street Burgers & Brews

1116 Main St., Watsonville, 831-536-4632

South County burger spot features 100% natural, grass-fed beef, with a range of options that stretch from the classic double cheeseburger to a chorizo burger and BBQ pulled pork. Wide selection of beers. 

Mountain Mike’s 

3715 Portola Drive, Santa Cruz, 831-477-7760, mountainmikesportoladrive.com

Sometimes only Mountain Mike’s can fix it. And they deliver.

Pizza My Heart  

1116 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-426-2511; 209 Esplanade, Capitola, 831-475-5714; 2180 41st Ave., Capitola, 831-475-6000, pizzamyheart.com  

A multiple winner for Best Pizza in GT’s Best of Santa Cruz Readers’ Poll, Pizza My Heart has mastered the art of creating the finest slices with walk-through ordering, as well as popular whole pizzas.

Pizzeria Avanti 

1711 Mission St., Santa Cruz, 831-425-1807, pizzeriaavanti.net 

Delicious and inventive pizza, pasta, salads and more, made with locally sourced organic ingredients and humanely raised meats. Nice selection of wine, beer and desserts.

Pleasure Pizza 

4000 Portola Drive, Santa Cruz, 831-475-4999; 1415 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-600-7859; pleasurepizzasc.com 

At Portola and 41st, the original Pleasure Pizza is the surfers’ choice for snagging a slice before or after catching some waves. At the downtown location, everyone gets to enjoy this local favorite.

Upper Crust Pizza and Pasta 

2415 Mission St., Santa Cruz, 831-423-9010, uppercrustsc.com  

Upper Crust serves up unique Sicilian square pizza, as well as homemade-style pasta dishes, oven-baked sandwiches, thin-crust pizzas and Sicilian muffaletta sandwiches. 

Woodstock’s Pizza 

710 Front St., Santa Cruz, 831-427-4444, woodstockscruz.com 

Great taste meets epic party. From Sriracha to carnitas to tater tots and bacon, recipes are classic or creative, with whole wheat or GF crust options. Craft beer, outdoor patio, delivery.

TEAS AND COFFEES

The Abbey  

350 Mission St., Santa Cruz, 831-429-1058, abbeycoffee.org 

The Abbey is an off-the-beaten-track gem of a hangout for students and all who still feel at home in student hangouts. Spacious with a special vibe. Excellent housemade chai and hibiscus coolers. 

Cafe del Sol

1266 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-423-8632, staffoflifemarket.com 

Inside the Staff of Life natural foods store, Cafe del Sol is part of a larger covered outdoor market. Specialty coffees, made-to-order juices and smoothies can be had at one of the greenest companies around. On-site bakery.

Cat & Cloud Coffee 

3600 Portola Drive, Santa Cruz; 719 Swift St., Suite 56, Santa Cruz; 10 Parade St., Suite A, Aptos; 725 Front St., Santa Cruz, catandcloud.com

Cat & Cloud’s roasting philosophy strays from the brighter, more acidic lighter roasts that tend to be favored by the specialty coffee industry to darker roasts, which they view as more approachable for the average coffee drinker.  

Coffeetopia  

1723 Mission St., Santa Cruz, 831-425-6583; 3701 Portola Drive, Santa Cruz, 831-477-1940; 1443 Capitola Road, Santa Cruz, 831-476-5488, coffeetopia.com

Counter service where the baristas really care about the basics: making you the coffee drink you want. Espresso is the focal point of its many drinks. 

Ground Control Coffeehouse & Eatery

10 Seascape Blvd., Aptos, 831-685-2120, facebook.com/groundcontrolcoffeehouse

Beyond the yummy coffee and pastries, the kitchen serves up burgers, turkey chili, salads, breakfast, and more. Live music on Saturdays. Wine, too!

Java Junction

519 Seabright Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-423-5282; 580 S. River St., Santa Cruz, 831-426-2128, javajunctioncoffee.com

Roasting the highest quality organic and fair trade coffee and espresso beans, Java Junction is the perfect pick-me-up for your morning commute, or a place to sit and chat with friends.

Mr. Toots   

231 Esplanade, Capitola, 831-475-3679 

The locals’ favorite in Capitola Village offers stellar coffee drinks, a soothing seaside view and the increasingly rare coffee house staple: acoustic music.

Hidden Peak Teahouse  

1541-C Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-423-4200, hiddenpeakteahouse.com 

A downtown retreat, this serene teahouse offers the finest in organic teas, gung fu tea service and terrific gifts—all made with precise, patient skill.

Lulu Carpenter’s    

1545 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-429-9804; 911 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz, 475-3679, lulucarpenters.com 

A Santa Cruz tradition with classic coffeehouse ambience, Lulu’s is comfortable and well-run. A full kitchen at the downtown location and relationships with coffee growers keep the quality of products high.

Surf City Coffee    

6006 La Madrona Drive, Scotts Valley, 831-430-9112; 9105 Soquel Drive, Aptos, 831-684-2750, surfcitycoffee.com 

Surf City knows what is needed in a good coffeehouse. Two things: coffee done right and ambience done right.

Verve Coffee Roasters

1540 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-600-7784; 816 41st Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-475-7776; 104 Bronson St. #19, Santa Cruz, 831-471-8469,1010 Fair Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-431-6547, vervecoffee.com  

On the cutting edge of coffee culture—sourcing, roasting and brewing—Verve coffee houses are modern, light-filled meccas that maintain the highest standards.

PUBS

99 Bottles of Beer on the Wall

110 Walnut Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-459-9999, 99bottles.com

This family-friendly pub in downtown Santa Cruz has 45 Beers on tap and over 150 bottled beers. Half-pound burgers, fresh pastas and salads, fish and chips, vegetarian dishes, kids menu, pet-friendly patio. Full menu served until midnight Friday and Saturday.

Boulder Creek Brewery 

13040 Hwy. 9, Boulder Creek, 831-338-7882, bouldercreekbrewery.net 

The old-time setting in the heart of Boulder Creek boasts house-made desserts, great salads, garlic fries, pizza, Mexican, barbecue, and pub favorites. They carry the suds from the best local brewpubs. 

East End Gastropub

1501 41st Ave., Capitola, 831-475-8010, eastendpub.com 

Craft beer, wine, wood-fired pizza and a seasonal menu of small plates and entrées make this East Side sibling of West End Tap & Kitchen a refined neighborhood standby.

Parish Publick House

841 Almar Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-421-0507, 8017 Soquel Drive, Aptos, 831-708-2036, theparishpublick.com 

What’s not to like about The Parish? It’s a lively neighborhood bar with rotating taps, delicious pub fare and full-on atmosphere. The Aptos location has patio seating.

Rosie McCann’s Irish Pub & Restaurant 

1220 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-426-9930, rosiemccanns.com 

You’ll find more than a touch of the Irish at Rosie McCann’s. The reputation for tasty pub food and live music please locals and visitors alike.  

Seabright Social  

519 Seabright Ave. #107, Santa Cruz, 831-426-2739, seabrightsocial.com 

With home-brewed beers and a diverse selection of pub food, the Seabright community has found a gathering place in this neighborhood hangout. 

SEAFOOD

Cafe Rio

131 Esplanade, Aptos, 831-688-8917, caferioaptos.com

Cafe Rio features a variety of seafood and steak for a delicious and picturesque beachfront dining experience at Rio Del Mar. Friendly service and delectable desserts are hallmarks.

Dolphin Restaurant    

71A Municipal Wharf, Santa Cruz, 831-426-5830 

The end of the wharf is an attractive location for breakfast, lunch and dinner. A rustic, beachy environment to enjoy with the family, with beautiful views of Monterey Bay. 

Firefish Grill  

25 Municipal Wharf, Santa Cruz, 831-423-5300, firefishgrill.net 

Firefish Grill is downright memorable. It specializes in fresh, traditional seafood, steaks and homemade pasta dishes served California-cuisine style at very reasonable prices. Ocean views from every seat.

Gilda’s   

37 Municipal Wharf, Santa Cruz, 831-423-2010, gildas-restaurant.com 

An old-timey Wharf tradition, the large menu will please everyone in the family. The prices for daily specials are unbeatable. Did we mention the ocean views?

Jack O’Neill Restaurant

175 West Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz, 831-460-5012, jackoneillrestaurant.com 

Featuring a menu of modern coastal cuisine with a warm, vintage atmosphere that celebrates the spirit of its namesake, this Dream Inn-adjacent restaurant is also known for its stunning views. 

Johnny’s Harborside 

493 Lake Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-479-3430, johnnysharborside.com 

The sailors know best. This is one of the region’s premier seafood restaurants, located at the Harbor. The fresh fish selections are posted on a large board, and if fish isn’t your thing, the French Dip sandwich or anything else on the menu is a safe bet. 

Miramar Fish Grotto 

45 Municipal Wharf, Santa Cruz, 831-423-4441, miramarfishgrotto.com 

A longtime Wharf spot with Cioppino Wednesdays and Lobster Thursdays, as well as daily lunch and dinner specials.   

Stagnaro Bros. 

59 Municipal Wharf, Santa Cruz, 831-423-2180, stagnarobros.com 

There isn’t a bad dish in the house coming out of this expert kitchen, and the upstairs bar has some of the best views on the wharf. A feel-good eatery with a large selection of fresh seafood, steaks and pasta.

ECLECTIC

Brown Ranch Marketplace    

3555 Clares St., Capitola, 831-464-3555

From Cajun to Mexican to Chinese, Japanese and Trader Joe’s, you won’t go hungry while shopping at this family-owned center. 

Charlie Hong Kong  

1141 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-426-5664, charliehongkong.com 

Continually voted Best Meal For A Deal in GT’s annual readers’ poll, this counter-service eatery wins points for its “organic Asian street food.” Scrumptious organic veggies and savory meats, plus noodle and rice bowls that are vegan-based. 

Chocolate   

1522 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-427-9900, chocolatesantacruz.com 

A unique downtown eatery and a farm-to-table kitchen that serves fresh salads, fine sandwiches, eclectic entrées, and of course, chocolate desserts. Chocolate-based chicken mole is the house specialty.

Deke’s Market

334 7th Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-476-5897, dekesmarket.com

Classic market with goods for any occasion and a delightful deli serving juicy chicken and tri-tip fresh every day. Sandwiches are among the best around. They’ll even toast the bread.

Melinda’s Gluten Free Bakery

1420 41st Ave., Capitola, 831-316-5081, melindasbakery.com

Everything is made in house at this gluten-free and peanut-free bakery. Take out or take a table at this small treasure. Savory and sweet treats.

Roux Dat

118 Cooper St., Unit B, Santa Cruz, 831-888-6500, rouxdatcajuncreole.com

Family-run Roux Dat serves classic Cajun Creole with a selection of bold flavors and N’awlins favorites. The hot sauce selection will appeal to any palate’s tolerance for heat and adventure.

Surf City Sandwich

4101 Soquel Drive, Soquel, 831-346-6952, surfcitysandwich.com

This modern sandwich spot serves creative comfort food with ingredients such as ginger ahi filet, smoked pork shoulder and grass-fed rare roast beef. Salads, beer and more.

Sushi Market Sprouts   

300 7th Ave., Santa Cruz, 465-1177

Great Japanese food to go—from sushi to daifuku. Pre-order if you want something particular. The Japanese gifts are an enjoyable part of the attraction. 

ETHNIC

Ambrosia India Bistro

207 Sea Ridge Road, Aptos, 831-685-0610; 6006-D La Madrona Drive, Scotts Valley, 831-713-5594, ambrosiaib.com

There are two Santa Cruz County locations at which to enjoy the skillfully created Indian artisan dishes prepared with fresh ingredients and exotic spices. 

Cafe Brasil

1410 Mission St., Santa Cruz, 831-429-1855, cafebrasil.us

The line for Cafe Brasil’s tasty brunch goes all over the lawn on Sunday mornings, and it’s no wonder why. The high-protein dishes, loaded with fruits and vegetables, are a great way to start the day—no matter what you did Saturday night. 

Copal 

1203 Mission St., Santa Cruz, 831-201-4418, copalrestaurant.com 

Copal offers authentic Oaxacan food, drink, and culture.  

Oyunaa’s Mongolian Cuisine

1209 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-469-9900, oyunaas.com

Oyunaa serves up traditional fare from her native Mongolia, including steamed or fried dumplings, hearty soups and Eurasian salads. Everything is prepared fresh and is handmade daily. 

Pearl of the Ocean

736 Water St., Santa Cruz, 831-457-2350 

Owner Ayoma Wilen takes her food so seriously she gets spiritual about it. Wilen buys produce from farmers markets and serves Sri Lankan family recipes in one of the happiest restaurants anywhere. 

Royal Taj India Cuisine    

270 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz, 831-427-2400, royaltajsc.com  

Fresh traditional Indian cuisine at affordable prices. Open for lunch and dinner. Try the lunch buffet.

Samba Rock Acai Café    

291 Water St., Santa Cruz, 831-458-2224, facebook.com/SambaRockAcaiCafe  

For a chill spot to refresh and relax, cruise to Samba Rock—bicycle parking is free indoors. All menu items are original recipes of the owner at this casual, counter-service café.

Tyrolean Inn   

9600 Hwy. 9, Ben Lomond, 831-336-5188, tyroleaninn.com  

The only German restaurant and beer garden around. Classic Bavarian and continental cuisine in a traditional, cozy dining room that feels like the real thing.

Veg on the Edge

726 Front St., Santa Cruz, 831-423-3000, vegontheedge.com 

This popular restaurant  serves up vegan West African-influenced dishes and American staples. 

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