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.
Luna’s Borikén Bites brings Puerto Rican flavor to Abbott Square with empanadillas, chicharrón de pollo, jibarito sliders, slow-roasted pork, traditional desserts and owner Ali Luna’s blend of food, music and cultural heritage.
At Watsonville’s Miyuki Restaurant, longtime server and sushi chef Chris Ishikawa helps preserve a home-cooked Japanese dining tradition built on loyal regulars, standout sushi and a Wednesday-only signature ramen that has earned its own local following.
For nearly 80 years, Stagnaro Brothers Seafood Restaurant has served fresh seafood, family recipes and sweeping Monterey Bay views from its landmark location on the Santa Cruz Wharf.
Low Tide Bar & Grill at La Bahia Hotel & Spa offers Santa Cruz a polished beachside dining experience, with cocktails, California-Pacific dishes, Mediterranean touches and a “South Pacific living room” feel.
Downtown Santa Cruz taphouse Lúpulo pairs its coveted craft beer selection with Latin American and Spanish-inspired plates, from papas machas and tacos to vegan lion’s mane “crab cakes.”
Gran Gelato Caffe brings Italian-trained gelato craft to downtown Santa Cruz, with rotating flavors, espresso drinks, cannoli, tiramisu and a lunch menu featuring handmade focaccia panini.
The View at Chaminade serves modern American cuisine with French technique, global influence and hyper-local touches, from Monterey Bay seafood to on-property honey.
