18 Best American Restaurants in Santa Cruz

Evarista`s Comal restaurant Family • $$$
2-1245 E Cliff Dr Unit A, Santa Cruz

Customers` Favorites

Chilaquiles Rojos 2 Eggs Any Slile
Eggs Benedict Sauce on Sinde
Chile Verde and Pulled Pork
Quesabirrias Lite Toppings
French Toast and Berries
Salmon Club Sandwich
Birria with Consome
Evarista's Pancake
Regular Benedict
Machaca Scramble

“Tasty breakfast. I had the machaca scramble. The tomatilla salsa that was provided was fantastic. The meal came with a choice of different toasts, but I was able to substitute corn tortillas. I'll be returning to try the chicken fajita omelet.Vegetarian options: There are vegetarian options like chilaquiles and huevos rancheros but vegans would be hard-pressed to find something.“

4.8 Superb91 Reviews
Linda’s Seabreeze Café Cafe • $$
542 Seabright Ave, Santa Cruz

Customers` Favorites

Chicken Apple Sausage & Eggs
Oats-Cornmeal Waffle
Blueberry Pancakes
French Toast Combo
Corned Beef Hash
Denver Omelette
Greek Scramble
Cinnamon Roll
Eggs Benedict
Homefries

“Cute little café worth a stop if you're in the area. Very friendly and helpful staff! Tasty, in-house cinnamon rolls! Omelettes and potatoes could have used more salt/seasoning, but good otherwise. Definitely recommend a drop by here if you're looking for a quick bite!Fyi, they only take cash or check, but there is an ATM inside at the back :)Vegetarian options: I love veggies and had no trouble finding meat-free options here :)Parking: There may be other parking nearby, but from what I saw there was paid street parking out front and free parking in the neighborhood across the street. There was a sign indicating parking behind the café but I didn't venture back there so I can't say much other than it supposedly exists!“

4.7 Superb100 Reviews
Vim Dining and Desserts American • $$$
2238 Mission St, Santa Cruz

Customers` Favorites

Butter Charcuterie Board
Chorizo Fettuccine
Strawberry Churro
Balsamic Steak
Seasonal Salad

“Amazing!!!My husband and I made reservations for our anniversary. As soon as we walked in, I loved VIM. It's beautifully decorated and everyone is welcoming. They even printed Happy Anniversary on the menu for us We ordered the butter charcuterie board to start. It was delicious and I could have eaten a pound of the butter. Our cocktails were great and we had seconds. I had the bass and my husband had the pork and we left no crumbs! We also got the chocolate cake and the pumpkin cheesecake to go, and those were fabulous. Everything was fabulous and we will absolutely be back!“

4.8 Superb76 Reviews
Zachary's Restaurant Breakfast • $$
819 Pacific Ave, Santa Cruz

Customers` Favorites

A La Carte 2 Egg Omelets
Mickey Mouse Pancakes
Mike's Mess with Toast
Home Fried Potatoes
Jalapeno Corn Bread
Sourdough Pankakes
Sourdough Waffles
Artichoke Frittata
Pancake Breakfast
Corned Beef Hash

“The atmosphere and environment were very friendly. I talked with several of the local folks and learned a lot about the history of the area. The service was prompt and friendly but the food was only mediocre with a singed flare that was not to my taste. I ended up leaving the specialty bread from the breakfast sandwich and just eating the center.“

4.6 Superb118 Reviews
Silver Spur American • $$
2650 Soquel Dr, Santa Cruz

Customers` Favorites

Chicken Fried Steak and Eggs Any Style
Corned Beef Hash Eggs Any Style
Belgian Waffle with Fruit
Cinnamon French Toast
Chorizo Eggs Benedict
Biscuits and Gravy
Blueberry Pancakes
Hearty Homefries
Grilled Cheese
Chilaquiles

“First visit to this local eatery and it was an incredible surprise. We waited about 15 minutes to get in--NBD for this area. Food was outstanding! Eggs benedict was awesome. House made corned beef hazh special was spectacular. Pancakes were light and fluffy and we enjoyed real maple syrup on the side. It was so busy that service and food took awhile but it was completely worth it. Prices were super reasonable--$100 (including tip) for four adults. We will be back!“

4.6 Superb112 Reviews
The Walnut Avenue Cafe Breakfast • $$
106 Walnut Ave, Santa Cruz

Customers` Favorites

Belgian Waffle with Grilled Bananas and Walnuts
Grilled Banana and Walnut French Toast
Huevos Rancheros Con Carnitas
Blackened Ahi Benedict
French Toast Breakfast
Toast and Homefries
Huevos Mexicanos
Grain Pancakes
Chilaquiles
Avocado

“I've been meaning to go here for years and I'm so sad I didn't do it sooner. Absolutely amazing food and good portion sizes. It was so hard to choose a dish because they all sounded amazing! Will definitely be back as soon as possible!“

4.5 Superb117 Reviews
Harbor Café Breakfast • $$
535 7th Ave, Santa Cruz

Customers` Favorites

Basic Breakfast 2 Eggs Your Way
Country Steak Breakfast
Traditional Benedict
Mexican Tofu Scramble
Carnitas Omelette
Breakfast Burrito
Frittata Supreme
Cali Benedict
Churro Waffle
Harbor Cafe

“We love this breakfast spot!!! One of the few places that didn't suffer a drop off in service, quality of food, etc post-covid!!! Delicious! Molly was exceptional as our server! We came back two mornings in a row during our last visit..Kid-friendliness: Kids loved the virgin bloody marys!“

4.5 Superb89 Reviews
BAD ANIMAL American • $$
1011 Cedar St, Santa Cruz

“Bad Animal serves innovative, flavorful Thai food with topnotch service and great ambiance. They let us sample a few wines so everyone in our party of six was happy with their choice.We had the chicken, black cod and pork belly along with the tartare and glass noodle appetizers. Everything was excellent.“

4.5 Superb65 Reviews
Alderwood Santa Cruz American
155 Walnut Ave, Santa Cruz

Customers` Favorites

Beer-Battered Dungeness Crab
Roasted Hen of the Woods'
Allen Brothers Usda Prime
Smoked Magret Duck Breast
Vanilla Bean Creme Br
Embered Diver Scallop
Roasted Bone Marrow
Cheeseburger w Bacon
Smoked Beet Salad
Grilled Avocado

“It's expensive but very good. Has a big city vibe. Presents like a Michelin starred restaurant. I enjoyed it very much. Also fun to talk with the executive chef about the food prep at the chefs counter. And to watch them work in the kitchen.“

4.1 Good157 Reviews
The Water Street Grill American • $$
503 Water St, Santa Cruz

Customers` Favorites

Garlic Butter Shrimp Linguine Pasta
Filet Mignon and Lobster Tails
Bourbon Street Chicken
Crispy Calamari
Fried Asparagus
Seafood Pasta
French Fries
Bread Pudding
Chicken Wings
Skirt Steak

“The food was fabulous, I had the pork chop and my husband the shrimp. The vegetables were seasoned perfectly and the potatoes as well. It was a very busy night for the restaurant. My only complaint was the price was high for the chop, and the service was a little slow getting the desert and check.“

4.3 Superb145 Reviews
Cruz Kitchen & Taps American • $$$
145 Laurel St, Santa Cruz

Customers` Favorites

Blackened Fish Sando
Peanut Butter Cake
Braised Short Ribs
Leafy Green Salad
Cruz Burger
Ceviche
Wings

“We’ve been fans of Chef Damien’s other endeavors for some time but this iteration is elevated to new levels and might be the best kept secret in Santa Cruz! The food is a wide range from Asian fusion to Brewery pub classics. Each dish has a beautiful balance of flavor and richness yet feels light and clean. The beers on tap vary from other local spots so you try some new Monterey bay local breweries. The ambience is classic old diner mashed up with skate/ surf culture with rock leanings. Bar scene with a tv and kind, warm people equals, great spot to watch a game. In short, this place is a gem and we always feel like we are scoring a new secret spot. Go now before it gets line out the door busy!“

4.3 Superb114 Reviews
Hula's Island Grill American • $$
221 Cathcart St, Santa Cruz

Customers` Favorites

Crispy Coconut Shrimp Rolls
Jawaiian Jerk Pork Plate
South Seas Fish Tacos
Sweet Potato Fries
Kona Chicken Wings
Island Style Poke
Hawaiian Ceviche
Key Lime Pie
Spicy Edamame
Pulled Pork

“Love the food! Hit this spot every time we are in town!3/2024 UpdateAnother stellar dinner service- food is great as always- service is awesome. We ❤️❤️this place. It's definitely a destination restaurant in the Santa Cruz area. Try them next time u are in town- you won't be disappointed.“

4.3 Superb97 Reviews
The Crêpe Place American • $$
1134 Soquel Ave, Santa Cruz

Customers` Favorites

Fresh Baked Loaf of Honey Wheat Bread
Homemade Boston Clam Chowder
Smoked Salmon Crepe
California Benedict
Zorba the Greek
Breakfast Crepe
Fruit Crepé
Pollo Verde
Crêpes

“The Crêpe Place is a Santa Cruz classic. Large Tasty crêpes are used as an excuse to deliver oversized servings of the fillings. I love Alexander the Crêpe, but I've enjoyed every variety they have. You can also build your own. Loaves of fresh warm bread are served with dinner orders. The clam chowder is solid! Lovely back garden, nice bar, live music in the front, dark wood panel and old timey décor round it out. Park across the street.“

4.3 Superb76 Reviews
The Point Kitchen and Bar American • $$
3326 Portola Dr, Santa Cruz

Customers` Favorites

Pulled Pork Sandwich with Garlic Fries
Pleasure Burger and Fries
Filet Mignon and Shrimp
Crispy Brussels Sprouts
Grilled Pork Chops
Chicken Schnitzel
Molten Lava Cake

“Lovely outdoor patio! Service was timely and engaging; food hit the spot.My partner had the bacon wrapped gorgonzola dates, the jam burger + fries, and kombucha. I got the filet mignon, and we split a key lime pie. Flavors were well-balanced and intense. We went there for lunch, and were still surprisingly full when dinner time rolled around.Wheelchair accessibility: Outdoor patio has very easy access“

4.3 Superb60 Reviews
Jeffery's American • $$
2050 Soquel Ave, Santa Cruz

Customers` Favorites

Chicken Fried Steak with Biscuits and Gravy
Country Fried Steak and Eggs
Chicken Fried Steak and Eggs
Cheeseburger with Fries
Monte Cristo Sandwich
Eggs and Hash Browns
American Breakfast
Breakfast Sandwich
Cinnamon Roll
Blueberry

“My husband & I live near here! Sometimes we walk! The wait staff is delightful! The crowd tends to be older. The atmosphere is that of a diner! The food is simple, straight forward, and affordable!They have generous portions and a senior menu which we like. Their hamburgers are very good & the price is more affordable than many! Their raw and cooked veggies are very fresh!“

4.2 Good80 Reviews
Oswald Restaurant American • $$$
121 Soquel Ave, Santa Cruz

Customers` Favorites

Market Fish Plate
Chocolate Souffle
Burger and Fries
French Fries
Steak Medium

“We went early and had a 5 year old. While it's not great for kids, the Mac and cheese was a hit. The food was awesome otherwise and the cocktails were great. Can recommend the sous vided chicken and the mushroom bread pudding. We went early and had reservations so I'm not sure what the wait is like. We were some of the first seated for the night. The service was great. The atmosphere in the early afternoon is plain but I could see it picking up really well with more people adding energy. Will go again.Vegetarian options: The menu is small overall but there were vegetarian options besides French fries.“

4.1 Good158 Reviews
Back Nine Grill & Bar Bar & Grill • $$
555 Hwy 17 at Pasatiempo exit, Santa Cruz

Customers` Favorites

Coconut Crusted Jumbo Prawns
Loaded Potato Skins
The Outlaw Burger
BBQ Chicken Salad
Crispy Calamari
Mushroom Risotto
Berry Cobbler
Grilled Steak
Clam Chowder
Fish & Chips

“Excellent service, quality dinning atmosphere,great tasting food. Prices are a little high, but generous portions and great tasting food balance out the cost. Definitely worth the value. Friendly and Inviting staff. They offer happy hour bar specials including their starter food menu. Plenty of seating options whether you order a well drink or a cup of coffee, the setting is very comfortable.“

4.1 Good74 Reviews

18
Bantam

Bantam American • $$
1010 Fair Ave, Santa Cruz

Customers` Favorites

Fried Chicken Breast
Pickled Cauliflower
Sopressata Pizza
Margarita Pizza
Marinara Pizza
Pepperoni Pizza
Caesar Salad
Napoli Pizza
Sausage

“Outstanding restaurant, particularly with food and service. We arrived on a very busy, rainy Friday evening and put our name on the waitlist. It was a short wait so we decided to just wait there. We were treated with incredible hospitality from the beginning- someone (maybe the GM, I’m not sure his role) chatted with us while we waited and we immediately felt at ease and even more excited about the meal we were about to have. Our server was a consummate professional and she basically read my mind and made sure i had some mozz on my pizza. The food was some of the best I’ve had in Santa Cruz. But what makes me most eager to return is the wonderful experience of being welcomed as a guest at this lovely restaurant.“

4.1 Good61 Reviews
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