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Best Romantic Restaurants in Santa Cruz

Discover the best restaurants in Santa Cruz

Explore must-try spots, new openings, and hidden gems.

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18 restaurants available nearby

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A photo of Laili restaurant
1. Laili
4.6
Exceptional(2886)
Price: Moderate
• Mediterranean • Santa Cruz
Booked 35 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 with a Unique Afghan Twist 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 Gabriella Cafe restaurant
2. Gabriella Cafe
4.6
Exceptional(979)
Price: Very Expensive
• Italian • Santa Cruz
Booked 7 times today
Gabriella Cafe is a romantic escape in downtown Santa Cruz, praised for its charming, almost European ambiance and consistently delicious food. Reviewers highlight its intimate and cozy setting, with one even noting it as 'a very unique romantic setting.' The exceptional service and extensive wine list add to the romantic experience.
A photo of Chocolate the Restaurant restaurant
3. Chocolate the Restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(109)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Santa Cruz
Booked 9 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 Jack O'Neill Restaurant & Lounge restaurant
4. Jack O'Neill Restaurant & Lounge
4.6
Exceptional(2010)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary American • Santa Cruz
Booked 31 times today
Jack O’Neill Restaurant and Lounge is Santa Cruz’s best new destination for coastal California cuisine. The approachable and family-friendly vibe at Jack O’Neill Restaurant and Lounge will welcome hotel guests and locals alike.
A photo of Oswald restaurant
5. Oswald
4.4
Awesome(1623)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary American • Santa Cruz
Booked 15 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 The View Restaurant & Bar restaurant
6. The View Restaurant & Bar
4.5
Awesome(1236)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary American • Santa Cruz
Booked 29 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
7. Venus Spirits Cocktails & Kitchen | Westside
4.4
Awesome(641)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Santa Cruz
Booked 25 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
A photo of la Posta restaurant
8. la Posta
4.8
Exceptional(2377)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Santa Cruz
Booked 26 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 Cafe Cruz Rosticceria & Bar restaurant
9. Cafe Cruz Rosticceria & Bar
4.7
Exceptional(2092)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary American • Soquel
Booked 32 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 Water Street Grill restaurant
10. The Water Street Grill
4.6
Exceptional(316)
Price: Moderate
• American • Santa Cruz
Booked 1 time today
Our local restaurant in Santa Cruz Ca is Family owned, The Water Street Grill is a neighborhood Grill, steak,seafood,burger and wine-Beer Bar offering farm-to-table food, handcrafted drink and a selection of intriguing, affordable Firestone Drafted beers & great selection of wines. We have been more the 20 years in the Restaurant business, we are very committed our restaurant to treat customers with the most respect and let us also handle any event you having, will make it unforgettable moment.

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Discover best romantic restaurants in Santa Cruz

Discover the enchanting dining scene in the Santa Cruz / Capitola / Aptos area, where romance fills the air at every turn. Nestled in the heart of the San Francisco Bay Area, this locale offers a unique blend of coastal beauty and culinary delight, perfect for those special date nights or intimate gatherings. Each restaurant captures the essence of romance through intimate settings, exquisite menus, and breathtaking views that are sure to impress. The area is renowned for its variety, from cozy seaside eateries to elegant dining establishments, each providing a perfect backdrop for a romantic evening. Patrons can expect top-notch service and a selection of fine wines that complement the innovative dishes prepared with fresh, local ingredients. Whether you're celebrating an anniversary, planning a proposal, or just looking for a quiet spot to connect, these restaurants promise an unforgettable dining experience. Embrace the charm and sophistication of Santa Cruz’s romantic dining destinations, where every meal is served with a dash of love.

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