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Restaurants near Santa Cruz Downtown Historic District

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539 restaurants available nearby

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A photo of Hook & Line restaurant
1. Hook & Line
4.7
Exceptional(127)
$$$$
• Seafood • Santa Cruz
Booked 18 times today
Hook & Line offers a fresh, modern take on sustainable seafood, inspired by the rich bounty of California’s coast. Guided by acclaimed chef Santos Majano, our seasonal menu blends global influences with the vibrant, ingredient-driven flavors of Northern California. Every dish reflects our deep respect for the ocean, the land, and the people who cultivate both.We source thoughtfully — from local fishermen, farmers, and artisans — and let the seasons (and the tides) shape what we serve. From ceviche to whole fish, our offerings highlight what's fresh, what’s local, and what tastes best right now.Our beverage program showcases small-batch spirits, craft beers, seasonal cocktails, and natural wines with a focus on organic and biodynamic producers. It's all part of our commitment to sustainability, quality, and minimal intervention.Hook & Line is our love letter to the coast. A place to gather, to share, and to celebrate the simple joy of good food, good drink, and good company.
A photo of Gabriella Cafe restaurant
2. Gabriella Cafe
4.4
Awesome(1014)
$$$$
• Italian • Santa Cruz
Booked 1 time today
Zagat rated as "OUTSTANDING". Gabriella Cafe is a 50 seat, picturesque and romantic dining experience in downtown Santa Cruz.
A photo of Shadowbrook Restaurant Capitola restaurant
3. Shadowbrook Restaurant Capitola
4.7
Exceptional(4300)
$$$$
• American • Capitola
Booked 143 times today
Located in charming Capitola, 4-miles south of Santa Cruz, the world-famous Shadowbrook opened in October of 1947 with the theme of Romance in Dining. Shadowbrook today is not only the most romantic place to dine in northern California but was designated as one of the Top 100 Most Romantic Restaurants in all of America by the 5 million voters of Open Table. For nearly 80 years the restaurant has delighted generations of diners from around the world and locals from around the corner who come to celebrate special occasions or just to enjoy a fine meal in an atmosphere of Old World charm and grace.The restaurant is best reached by a meandering garden path amongst waterfalls and lush gardens or by its famous red “CABLE CAR” that transports guests from street level down to the restaurant located on the banks of Soquel Creek and a short walk from Capitola Village. Those staying nearby can enjoy complimentary shuttle service in one of the restaurant’s beautifully restored classic taxicabs.
A photo of Laili restaurant
4. Laili
4.5
Awesome(2909)
$$$$
• Mediterranean • Santa Cruz
Booked 13 times today
Laili is our expression of love through food and service. We offer a unique menu made up of fusion Afghani Mediterranean items that include kabobs, wraps, flatbreads, pastas, and spiced lamb and chicken dishes as well as delicious vegetarian options.Laili Restaurant "BEST MIDDLE EASTERN RESTAURANT", Good Times 2023, Voted #1Rich Mediterranean Flavors in the Heart of Downtown Santa Cruz.Currently taking reservations for lunch and dinner, walk-ins welcome too.Dine in our elegant, secluded, off street patio. Visit our website for event information.
A photo of Low Tide Bar and Grill - La Bahia Hotel & Spa restaurant
5. Low Tide Bar and Grill - La Bahia Hotel & Spa
4.1
Excellent(75)
$$$$
• Californian • Santa Cruz
Booked 10 times today
Discover a casual refuge from the buzz of the Boardwalk that embraces to the laid-back Santa Cruz lifestyle. Soak in handcrafted cocktails and bold innovative fare as contemporary Pacific island-inspired starters and shareables transport you to an island-style retreat.
A photo of Oswald restaurant
6. Oswald
4.4
Awesome(1634)
$$$$
• Contemporary American • Santa Cruz
Booked 7 times today
Oswald is a contemporary American restaurant and bar that focuses on the abundance of delicious ingredients found on the central coast of California. Oswald features an eclectic, international wine list and an exciting, seasonal bar program. While the decor is spare and modern, the atmosphere is comfortable and relaxed. Oswald features new art shows every two months. We do have first come tables available in the lounge as well as bar seats.Come by and see if there is a table or seat for you.
A photo of Chocolate the Restaurant restaurant
7. Chocolate the Restaurant
4.5
Awesome(187)
$$$$
• Californian • Santa Cruz
Booked 5 times today
Now celebrating 25 years, Chocolate the Restaurant provides an attractive dining environment for couples on dates, friendly meetings, and special occasion meals. Dine outside on the heated garden patio. Celebrate special occasions with up to 25 guests in the private street-side party room. Maybe start with a Chocolate Martini or a Passion Fruit Margarita. Chef David Jackman's fresh baked pasta rosettes, slow-roasted meats, and delicious seasonal organic vegetable dishes are all a prelude to our many chocolaty desserts. Our wine list focuses on local and on Italian wines. Our cocktails are all made from scratch; often using locally distilled spirits, and always using fresh house-made mixers. We are at your service for dinner every night! Afternoon walk-up cafe' service Friday thru Sunday. . We are open for dinner every holiday except Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.
A photo of la Posta restaurant
8. la Posta
4.8
Exceptional(2519)
$$$$
• Italian • Santa Cruz
Booked 12 times today
Select from a menu that features dishes composed of locally sourced ingredients as well as house-made pastas, naturally leavened breads and pizzas from our brick oven. Because we rely on the bounty of the Santa Cruz farming community, our menu changes frequently and features a wide array of specials. La Posta’s all-Italian wine list includes autochthonous varieties from small producers, by-the-glass and by the bottle. La Posta adheres to the Monterey Bay Seafood Watch Program and is a certified City of Santa Cruz Green Business.We are so thankful for the incredible support from our customers and community. We will continue to adjust our service based upon best practices for keeping our staff and community safe.
A photo of High Tide - La Bahia Hotel & Spa restaurant
9. High Tide - La Bahia Hotel & Spa
4.5
Awesome(38)
$$$$
• Pacific Rim • Santa Cruz
Booked 5 times today
Celebrating Santa Cruz's long relationship with the Pacific Islands, High Tide transposes the relaxed beach culture into an elevated dining experience. Through artistry, craftsmanship and fresh California ingredients, our gracious hospitality lets you enjoy the stunning views and inspired cuisine.
A photo of Mane Kitchen & Cocktails restaurant
10. Mane Kitchen & Cocktails
4.3
Awesome(36)
$$$$
• Seafood • Santa Cruz
Booked 4 times today
Welcome to Mane Kitchen & Cocktails, bringing a fresh tide of flavor to Pacific Avenue. We offer a sophisticated, contemporary setting perfect for conversation, connection, and a touch of indulgence.Our menu is rooted in French and Italian techniques and celebrates the rich bounty of the California coast. We are committed to sourcing the highest quality ingredients, including:Fresh Raw SeafoodOrganic & Sustainably Raised MeatsSeasonal Produce from local Santa Cruz County farms.Pair your meal with our carefully curated cocktail program, designed to perfectly complement our coastal-inspired dishes. Join us for an elevated dining experience where farm-fresh ingredients and classic technique meet modern sophistication.

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Dining near Santa Cruz Downtown Historic District at a glance

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Suda

4.9

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Exceptional reviews

Most popular cuisine

popular cuisine

Contemporary American

Average check amount

$31 to $50

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Discover best restaurants near Santa Cruz Downtown Historic District

Experience the vibrant charm of Santa Cruz Downtown Historic District, a hub of culture and history that invites exploration. Where to Eat Near Santa Cruz Downtown Historic District? The dining scene nearby offers an enticing mix that mirrors the artistic spirit of the area. Discover a range of options from casual Californian eateries serving seasonal dishes, elegant Italian bistros with romantic atmospheres, to Mediterranean restaurants inspired by Afghan flavors. Enjoy delightful meals complemented by local ingredients, including fresh seafood, hearty pastas, and unique kabobs. Whatever your culinary craving, you're sure to find something special just steps away, making any meal an enjoyable part of your visit.

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