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Best Californian Restaurants in Aptos

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14 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Venus Spirits Cocktails & Kitchen | Beachside restaurant
1. Venus Spirits Cocktails & Kitchen | Beachside
4.5
Awesome(327)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Aptos
Booked 19 times today
At Venus Spirits Cocktails & Kitchen, located in the charming beachside neighborhood of Aptos, CA, cocktail enthusiasts are in for a delightful experience. This newly renovated spot stands out for its handcrafted cocktails made with locally distilled Venus Spirits, ensuring each sip is both unique and refreshing. Patrons rave about the exceptional quality of the drinks, with one guest celebrating the "best tasting" cocktails in the county. Whether it's the bartender's special mai tai or the intriguing Gunsmoke cocktail, each drink is crafted to perfection. The ambiance, combined with the inventive cocktail menu, makes Venus Spirits a must-visit for anyone looking for an authentic and high-quality cocktail bar experience.
A photo of Sanderlings - Seascape Resort restaurant
2. Sanderlings - Seascape Resort
4.1
Excellent(1288)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Aptos
Booked 5 times today
Sanderlings at Seascape Beach Resort, located in the serene neighborhood of Aptos, is a gem for Grill cuisine enthusiasts. The restaurant offers "fantastic food" with a strong emphasis on grilled dishes, praised for their taste and presentation. Guests consistently highlight the "amazing" grill selections, such as the "light crisp batter" fish and chips and the "rich with flavor" clam chowder, perfectly complementing the oceanfront dining experience. One visitor raved about the grilled beef sandwich, noting although it was a bit dry, the overall dining experience was elevated by the "great service and patio view." Sanderlings ensures that each dish served is a testament to authentic Grill cuisine, making it a must-visit destination in northern California.
A photo of Zelda's on the Beach restaurant
3. Zelda's on the Beach
4.4
Awesome(549)
Price: Moderate
• Californian • Capitola
Booked 8 times today
Nestled in the scenic Capitola Village, Zelda's on the Beach offers more than just breathtaking views of Monterey Bay—it offers a culinary journey with its exceptional steak cuisine. Patrons rave about the quality of the dishes, with one diner exclaiming the steak was "cooked to perfection." This beachfront gem combines the allure of ocean views with the rich, authentic flavors of expertly prepared steak, ensuring a dining experience that is both delightful and memorable. Whether you're enjoying a meal on their sandy beachfront deck or inside their cozy restaurant, Zelda's commitment to quality and taste shines, making every steak an exquisite highlight of your visit.
A photo of The View, a Treeside Restaurant restaurant
4. The View, a Treeside Restaurant
4.3
Awesome(1158)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Santa Cruz
Booked 23 times today
At The View, a Treeside Restaurant in Santa Cruz, the grill cuisine shines against the backdrop of stunning Monterey Bay views. Patrons rave about the authenticity and quality of their grilled dishes, with one guest noting, "My steak was cooked to perfection," highlighting the skillful preparation that enhances every flavorful bite. Another diner celebrated the "best preparation of calamari I’ve ever had," underscoring the restaurant's commitment to excellence in both seafood and traditional grill offerings. With its commitment to using sustainable and locally sourced ingredients, The View ensures each dish served is not only delightful but also responsible. A must-visit for anyone seeking a top-tier grill experience where the food and the views compete for your attention.
A photo of Venus Spirits Cocktails & Kitchen | Westside restaurant
5. Venus Spirits Cocktails & Kitchen | Westside
4.5
Awesome(615)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Santa Cruz
Booked 21 times today
Venus Spirits Cocktails & Kitchen in Santa Cruz is celebrated for its exemplary distillery cuisine, offering a unique dining experience right beside where their spirits are crafted. Patrons rave about the quality of both the food and drinks, with reviews highlighting "top notch" cocktails and "amazing" handcrafted spirits that showcase the venue's commitment to quality and authenticity. The restaurant's atmosphere, described as perfect for any occasion, complements its menu, making it a go-to spot in the Westside neighborhood. The commitment to excellence is evident, as one diner exclaimed, "if there wasn't so many people within watching distance, our group would have licked the plate clean just to get every last flavor crystal." This seamless blend of fine spirits and culinary expertise ensures a memorable dining experience at Venus Spirits.
A photo of Jack O'Neill Restaurant & Lounge restaurant
6. Jack O'Neill Restaurant & Lounge
4.8
Exceptional(1956)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Santa Cruz
Booked 22 times today
Jack O'Neill Restaurant & Lounge in Santa Cruz is a gem for authentic Californian cuisine, offering a perfect blend of quality, flavor, and ambiance that showcases the best of coastal California. With its "wonderful dinner experience" and "delicious food," this restaurant stands out for both locals and visitors. The menu features fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, with dishes like the praised "whole fish entry" and "creamy polenta" that leave guests raving about their meals. The stunning ocean views add an extra layer of delight, enhancing the dining experience. As one review puts it, the food is "fresh, delicious, and well-prepared/presented," making Jack O'Neill not just a meal but an event worth returning to. Whether it's for a memorable lunch by the ocean or a dinner at sunset, this spot is celebrated for making each visit special with its impeccable service and unmatched locale.
A photo of la Posta restaurant
7. la Posta
4.8
Exceptional(2331)
Price: Moderate
• Californian • Santa Cruz
Booked 18 times today
At La Posta in Santa Cruz, diners are treated to an unforgettable Italian culinary experience that celebrates the finest local ingredients. Guests rave about the "closest to the neighborhood restaurants in northern Italy" quality, with a menu that changes frequently to highlight the freshest produce and artisanal touches like house-made pastas and naturally leavened breads. The ambiance is complemented by an all-Italian wine list, carefully curated from small producers. It's no wonder La Posta is hailed as "the best Italian food in Santa Cruz bar none," making it a must-visit for both locals and visitors seeking authentic, high-quality Italian cuisine in a welcoming atmosphere.
A photo of Ideal Bar & Grill restaurant
8. Ideal Bar & Grill
4.0
Excellent(302)
Price: Moderate
• Californian • Santa Cruz
Booked 8 times today
Nestled in the picturesque Santa Cruz, Ideal Bar & Grill epitomizes the essence of Californian cuisine with its delightful array of local flavors and a scenic view of the Main beach and Municipal Wharf. Praised for its "award-winning clam chowder" and fresh seafood dishes, this family-friendly spot offers a sunlit deck for an immersive dining experience. Guests rave about the "delicious meal and attentive server" and the "phenomenal service" that make each visit memorable. Whether it's the beautifully prepared prime rib or the fresh oysters, Ideal Bar & Grill captures the fresh, innovative spirit of Californian culinary excellence, making it a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists alike.
A photo of Chocolate the Restaurant restaurant
9. Chocolate the Restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(82)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Santa Cruz
Booked 12 times today
Chocolate the Restaurant in Santa Cruz perfectly encapsulates the essence of Californian cuisine with its emphasis on fresh, organic ingredients and a creative culinary approach. Celebrating 25 years of culinary excellence, this spot is a haven for food lovers seeking an authentic Californian dining experience. Patrons rave about the "rich and delicious" food, particularly noting the fusion of local flavors in dishes like the Oaxacan chicken mole and the freshly baked pasta rosettes. The restaurant's use of locally sourced spirits and house-made mixers in their cocktails adds to the authentic local vibe. "The garden dining is beautiful and intimate," one reviewer noted, praising the restaurant's ability to merge atmosphere with gastronomy, making it a standout in the Californian culinary scene. Whether it's the innovative chocolate-infused dishes or the vibrant cocktails, Chocolate the Restaurant offers a distinct and memorable taste of California.
A photo of Solaire Restaurant + Bar restaurant
10. Solaire Restaurant + Bar
3.9
Excellent(214)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Santa Cruz
Booked 3 times today
Solaire Restaurant + Bar in Santa Cruz is the epitome of a perfect breakfast haven, where the quality and authenticity of the cuisine shine brightly. Known for its innovative twists on local ingredients, Solaire makes each breakfast dish a delightful experience. Diners rave about the restaurant’s vibrant atmosphere and exceptional service, with one reviewer noting the breakfast as "very delicious, flavorful, and tasty." The attention to detail is evident, from the thoughtful plating to the unique menu that stands out in Santa Cruz. Whether it’s the poolside ambiance or the creative menu, Solaire is designed to impress and satisfy all your breakfast cravings.

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Discover best Californian restaurants in Aptos

Discover the essence of California cuisine in the heart of the San Francisco Bay Area with our curated selection of restaurants in Aptos, Santa Cruz / Capitola / Aptos. Each restaurant promises a unique dining experience, blending local flavors with innovative culinary techniques to showcase the best of Californian fare. From the freshness of locally-sourced seafood to the artisanal touch in handcrafted cocktails, these eateries provide a gastronomic journey that highlights the region's abundance. The Aptos area is renowned for its scenic views and cozy dining spots that elevate every meal into a memorable event. Whether you're enjoying a meal by the beachside, nestled in historic village settings, or overlooking breathtaking ocean vistas, the ambiance complements the high-quality cuisine on offer. Patrons consistently praise the attentive service, the quality of the meals, and the overall dining atmosphere, affirming the restaurants' commitment to excellence. Explore the diverse culinary landscape of Aptos, where each meal is not just eaten but experienced. Indulge in everything from sophisticated seafood dishes to robust Californian classics, all prepared with a dedication to authenticity and flair. This destination is a haven for food lovers seeking to savor the true taste of California.

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