While you can expect to enjoy the sun, surf and sand when you visit Santa Cruz, you shouldn’t overlook all the flavors that the city has to offer. 

With international cuisines all conveniently located in one place, you can dine around the world without ever leaving this coastal community.

Keep reading to find out more about some local hot spots – your taste buds will be sure to thank you!

Mexican

Los Gallos Taqueria

For tasty tacos, bold burritos and other authentic Mexican food bursting with flavor, Los Gallos Taqueria is your spot. Their savory meals will surely have you coming back for more. 

Copal Restaurant

If you’re looking for outstanding Oaxacan cuisine, look no further than Copal’s. Combining the beauty of authentic Oaxacan food, drink and culture, this Mezcal bar features scratch made meals using traditional methods, sourcing local ingredients whenever possible.

Italian 

Bantam 

Take a step into this hip, transformed warehouse space for some ever popular wood-fired Neapolitan pizzas. If a pie isn’t your thing, their sizable offering of daily features should certainly appeal to any craving. Be sure to try a local beer, crafty cocktail or glass of wine to wash it down! 

American

Oswald Restaurant

If California cuisine is calling your name, Oswald’s is here to answer! Nestled in the heart of downtown, this spot is loved by locals, and it's easy to see why!

With a rotating art exhibit featured inside throughout the year, you can look forward to a unique yet warm ambiance. Comforting dishes such as curry braised lamb or beef lasagna certainly add to the cozy atmosphere. 

South Asian 

Malabar Restaurant

To experience a unique take on South Asian cuisine, Malabar Restaurant is an easy choice. With products sourced locally, an impressive selection of vegetarian, vegan and seafood dishes are yours to choose from. With generous and affordable portions, you’ll leave with a full stomach, and wallet too!

Cambodian 

Jia Tella’s Cambodian Cuisine

For a savory meal of smoky, sweet barbeque, Jia Tella’s is just the place. Specializing in Cambodian cuisines with a unique twist, a menu filled with the freshest ingredients awaits. And, their large outdoor patio is the perfect place to tuck into your meal while still enjoying the sunshine. 

Japanese

Akira

With access to fresh fish, it makes for some incredible sushi spots in Santa Cruz! You can certainly find plenty of tasty offerings at Akira’s, where a laid-back atmosphere meets funky street art-style decor and fantastic food. With over a hundred roll combinations, each bursting with bold and magnificent flavorings, you just might have a hard time deciding what to get!

Greek 

Falafel Of Santa Cruz 

This quaint restaurant brings the true feel of the Mediterranean food experience to Santa Cruz.

Bringing together friends and family for food, drink, conversation you can expect a delicious homemade meal made with love.

Chinese

Yan Flower 

This longtime local restaurant combines an old-world atmosphere with sizable Chinese dishes. With great service and a plenty of tasty menu items, there’s much to be enjoyed at Yan Flower.

While it might be hard to decide which restaurant to choose to dine at, when you call Santa Cruz home you can enjoy them all! 

To start looking for your perfect Santa Cruz home, connect with Lauren Spencer today and discover all the latest listings.


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