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Restaurants near Santa Cruz Wharf

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508 restaurants available nearby

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A photo of Olitas Cantina & Grille restaurant
1. Olitas Cantina & Grille
3.8
Excellent(8)
$$$$
• Mexican • Santa Cruz
Enjoy ocean to table Mexican cuisine with a coastal twist at Olitas Cantina & Grille, overlooking the Santa Cruz Lighthouse. Enjoy our signature Lobster Quesadilla and house made salsas highlight a menu rooted in fresh, local ingredients. Perfect for sunset cocktails, date nights, or relaxed seaside dining with family and friends.
A photo of Shadowbrook Restaurant Capitola restaurant
2. Shadowbrook Restaurant Capitola
4.7
Exceptional(4659)
$$$$
• American • Capitola
Booked 168 times today
Located in charming Capitola, 4-miles south of Santa Cruz, the world-famous Shadowbrook opened in October of 1947 with the theme of Romance in Dining. Shadowbrook today is not only the most romantic place to dine in northern California but was designated as one of the Top 100 Most Romantic Restaurants in all of America by the 5 million voters of Open Table. For nearly 80 years the restaurant has delighted generations of diners from around the world and locals from around the corner who come to celebrate special occasions or just to enjoy a fine meal in an atmosphere of Old World charm and grace.The restaurant is best reached by a meandering garden path amongst waterfalls and lush gardens or by its famous red “CABLE CAR” that transports guests from street level down to the restaurant located on the banks of Soquel Creek and a short walk from Capitola Village. Those staying nearby can enjoy complimentary shuttle service in one of the restaurant’s beautifully restored classic taxicabs.
A photo of la Posta restaurant
3. la Posta
4.8
Exceptional(2572)
$$$$
• Italian • Santa Cruz
Booked 12 times today
Located in the Seabright neighborhood of Santa Cruz, La Posta is just moments from downtown Santa Cruz and the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. Select from a seasonal menu featuring locally sourced ingredients, house-made pastas, naturally leavened breads, gelato made in house, and pizzas from our brick oven.Because we rely on the bounty of the Santa Cruz farming community, our menu changes frequently and features seasonal dishes and nightly specials. Visit lapostarestaurant.com to view our most up-to-date menu.La Posta’s curated all-Italian wine list celebrates the regional diversity of Italy and includes autochthonous varieties from small producers. Our dining room and patio offer a welcoming setting for memorable dinners, celebrations, and gatherings.We adhere to the Monterey Bay Seafood Watch Program and are a certified City of Santa Cruz Green Business.
A photo of Hook & Line restaurant
4. Hook & Line
4.7
Exceptional(200)
$$$$
• Seafood • Santa Cruz
Booked 28 times today
Hook & Line offers a fresh, modern take on sustainable seafood, inspired by the rich bounty of California’s coast. Guided by acclaimed chef Santos Majano, our seasonal menu blends global influences with the vibrant, ingredient-driven flavors of Northern California. Every dish reflects our deep respect for the ocean, the land, and the people who cultivate both.We source thoughtfully — from local fishermen, farmers, and artisans — and let the seasons (and the tides) shape what we serve. From ceviche to whole fish, our offerings highlight what's fresh, what’s local, and what tastes best right now.Our beverage program showcases small-batch spirits, craft beers, seasonal cocktails, and natural wines with a focus on organic and biodynamic producers. It's all part of our commitment to sustainability, quality, and minimal intervention.Hook & Line is our love letter to the coast. A place to gather, to share, and to celebrate the simple joy of good food, good drink, and good company.
A photo of Laili restaurant
5. Laili
4.5
Awesome(2924)
$$$$
• Mediterranean • Santa Cruz
Booked 15 times today
Laili is our expression of love through food and service. We offer a unique menu made up of fusion Afghani Mediterranean items that include kabobs, wraps, flatbreads, pastas, and spiced lamb and chicken dishes as well as delicious vegetarian options.Laili Restaurant "BEST MIDDLE EASTERN RESTAURANT", Good Times 2023, Voted #1Rich Mediterranean Flavors in the Heart of Downtown Santa Cruz.Currently taking reservations for lunch and dinner, walk-ins welcome too.Dine in our elegant, secluded, off street patio. Visit our website for event information.
A photo of Low Tide Bar and Grill - La Bahia Hotel & Spa restaurant
6. Low Tide Bar and Grill - La Bahia Hotel & Spa
4.0
Excellent(102)
$$$$
• Californian • Santa Cruz
Booked 8 times today
Discover a casual refuge from the buzz of the Boardwalk that embraces to the laid-back Santa Cruz lifestyle. Soak in handcrafted cocktails and bold innovative fare as contemporary Pacific island-inspired starters and shareables transport you to an island-style retreat.
A photo of High Tide - La Bahia Hotel & Spa restaurant
7. High Tide - La Bahia Hotel & Spa
4.1
Excellent(79)
$$$$
• Pacific Rim • Santa Cruz
Booked 5 times today
Celebrating Santa Cruz's long relationship with the Pacific Islands, High Tide transposes the relaxed beach culture into an elevated dining experience. Through artistry, craftsmanship and fresh California ingredients, our gracious hospitality lets you enjoy the stunning views and inspired cuisine.
A photo of Cafe Cruz Rosticceria & Bar restaurant
8. Cafe Cruz Rosticceria & Bar
4.7
Exceptional(2302)
$$$$
• Contemporary American • Soquel
Booked 28 times today
Cafe Cruz is a popular and lively local restaurant. We offer casual/fine dining with a full bar, indoor and heated patio dining. Guests enjoy watching the "magic" created in our open copper-backed kitchen each night by our talented team of chefs. Notable features include many locally sourced foods, nightly sustainable seafood specials, and many creative salad and vegetable options. Our innovative pastas and sandwiches are always a hit. Spit-Roasted meats are featured each night, cooked on a french Rotisol rotisserie. The lush garden room can seat larger parties of up to 35. Guests enjoy our warm friendly service, our many seating options, and exceptionally delicious food.
A photo of The View Restaurant & Bar restaurant
9. The View Restaurant & Bar
4.1
Excellent(1467)
$$$$
• Contemporary American • Santa Cruz
Booked 24 times today
Set high on a hilltop with breathtaking panoramic views of the Monterey Bay, The View Restaurant & Bar at Chaminade offers a unique dining experience. Indoor and outdoor seating allows guests to enjoy the naturally beautiful scenery which compliments the contemporary California Cuisine. Whether it’s sustainable seafood or locally grown produce, The View emphasizes natural ingredients while providing four-diamond service. A 4% surcharge will be added to all guest checks to help cover increases in labor costs and to support a higher minimum wage.***Please note that our kitchen closes from 1:30pm-2:00pm to prepare for dinner service. Our bar and restaurant remain open during that time, offering a fine selection of local wines, craft beers, signature cocktails, and non-alcoholic refreshments to enjoy.
A photo of Venus Spirits Cocktails & Kitchen | Westside restaurant
10. Venus Spirits Cocktails & Kitchen | Westside
4.4
Awesome(747)
$$$$
• Californian • Santa Cruz
Booked 15 times today
Savor our handcrafted cocktails and flavorful dishes right beside the distillery where our premium spirits are crafted. Whether you prefer indoor dining, a lively bar atmosphere, or our covered heated patio, we provide a variety of seating options to enhance your experience.HOURS:Monday - Thursday // 5pm - 9pmFriday // 4pm - 9pmSaturday - Sunday // 11:30am - 9pm

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Dining near Santa Cruz Wharf at a glance

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popular restaurant

Woodstock's Pizza - Santa Cruz

5

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Exceptional reviews

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popular cuisine

Contemporary American

Average bill amount

$41 to $70

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Discover best restaurants near Santa Cruz Wharf

Welcome to Santa Cruz Wharf, a vibrant hub where locals and visitors gather to enjoy stunning waterfront views and exciting marine activities. Where to Eat Near Santa Cruz Wharf? The area boasts a diverse culinary scene, perfect for food enthusiasts seeking delicious options just steps away from the shore. Dine in casual settings that highlight fresh, locally sourced ingredients, with offerings like handmade pasta, seasonal seafood, and hearty Californian favorites. Enjoy flavors that range from contemporary American dishes, served in family-friendly settings, to Italian classics that warm the heart. Whether you’re in the mood for a breezy beachside grill or an inviting Italian eatery, you’ll find something to delight your taste buds. Experience the friendly atmosphere as you savor a meal after a day of exploring, making Santa Cruz Wharf not just a destination, but a lively dining experience.

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