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Best Date Night Restaurants in Santa Cruz

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13 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Laili restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(2859)
Price: Moderate
• Mediterranean • Santa Cruz
Booked 33 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
4.7
Exceptional(975)
Price: Very Expensive
• Italian • Santa Cruz
Booked 4 times today
Gabriella Cafe is the perfect date night spot. With its 'OUTSTANDING' Zagat rating and consistently high reviews for its romantic ambiance, excellent food, and top-notch service, it's the perfect place for a quiet, intimate dinner. One reviewer called it a 'wonderful Friday night date spot', highlighting the delicious entrees and fantastic service. Another noted it as a 'charming, cozy' restaurant with a 'lovely, romantic, small' setting that's 'perfect for a quiet lunch or romantic escape.' So, if you're looking for a romantic Italian dining experience in Santa Cruz, Gabriella Cafe is the place to be!
A photo of Oswald restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(1613)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary American • Santa Cruz
Booked 1 time 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 Chocolate the Restaurant restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(82)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Santa Cruz
Booked 4 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 Mozaic - Santa Cruz restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(472)
Price: Moderate
• Mediterranean • Santa Cruz
Booked 6 times today
We named our restaurant Mozaic because we wanted to capture the diversity of flavors and culmination of authentic Mediterranean dishes that we offer. We bring together the best of Mediterranean recipes from Greece, Lebanon, Turkey and Sicily, emphasizing Middle Eastern influence. Our menu is hand-crafted after years of experience in the restaurant business knowing what people like. We make every dish completely authentic, utilizing 100 years old techniques that have been passed down through generations to bring you incredible flavor. COME AND TASTE THE DIFFERENCE We seek only the best, local ingredients. We use high-quality meats, like our Australian lamb tenderloin and select only sustainable seafood. Our lavash comes from an authentic Persian bakery. Everyone wants family. Mozaic is a warm and inviting atmosphere where everyone can feel at home. Come enjoy our incredible and lush atmosphere.
A photo of Jack O'Neill Restaurant & Lounge restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(1959)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary American • Santa Cruz
Booked 26 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 Solaire Restaurant + Bar restaurant
3.9
Excellent(215)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Santa Cruz
Booked 2 times today
Whether it be a cocktail while soaking up the sun at the poolside patio, anexpertly prepared meal, or a spirited conversation at the bar, SolaireRestaurant + Bar offers the best of what is available with the changingseasons.Solaire offers a truly local dining destination that offers unexpected andoffbeat twists on local ingredients and flavors. The atmosphere of theseasonal restaurant changes based on the weather—in the warm weathermonths it is a playful experience centered on the indoor/outdoor restaurant spaces andthe vibrant pool scene. In the foggier months, guests can relax under the powerful outdoor heaters in our indoor/outdoor covered space while enjoying a cocktail. Mirroring the laid-back attitude of Santa Cruz, the restaurant and bar bring the natural outdoor elements inside in imaginative and modern ways.
A photo of Venus Spirits Cocktails & Kitchen | Westside restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(617)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Santa Cruz
Booked 19 times today
Enjoy handcrafted cocktails and food right next to the distillery where our spirits are produced. Indoor, bar and covered heated patio seating available.Hours: Monday to Thursday 5pm-9pmFriday to Sunday 4pm-9pm
A photo of Suda restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(379)
Price: Expensive
• American • Santa Cruz
Booked 9 times today
Pairing seasonal produce from local farmers with line caught fish and lean, hormone-free beef, the menu at Süda stays as fresh as the ingredients. With a variety of inventive dishes, including vegan and gluten free options, there is truly something for everyone.The atmosphere at the bar is lively, while booths offer diners a more intimate experience making Süda the perfect place for a casual meal with friends or a night out with someone special. We are open for breakfast, lunch and dinner so you can enjoy fresh food whenever your heart desires.
A photo of Vinocruz restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(123)
Price: Moderate
• Wine Bar • Soquel
Booked 1 time today
Vinocruz Wine Bar and Kitchen features over 50 local wines by the glass from the beautiful and often under appreciated Santa Cruz Mountains AVA starting at about $9 a glass along with local ciders and beers on tap. We also have an extensive menu of small plates including Flatbreads, Fish Tacos, Street Tacos, Short rib Sliders, House made Hummus, Vino Burger, Port infused Truffles, daily specials and much more!We are located in Soquel Village about a 2 min drive from Capitola beach and 10 min from SC Beach Boardwalk. Our large redwood bar and handmade tables offer a cozy, but modern dining experience. For groups larger than 4 please give us a call and we would be happy to accommodate you. Our goal is to be your go-to location for a slightly upscale wine bar in Santa Cruz County and also THE place to go explore Santa Cruz Mountains Wines.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Ivanvip
    San Francisco Bay Area •6 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    As usual, everyone is very welcoming and sincerely friendly.
    More info
    Venus Spirits Cocktails & Kitchen | WestsidePrice: Expensive• Californian• Santa Cruz
    4.6
  • Brendavip
    San Francisco Bay Area •3 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 6 days ago
    We ordered off of the Happy Hour menu and had a number of delicious dishes; lasagne & salad, burger & fries, and Mac n’cheese. The Olive app was good too. Also the happy hour cocktails: Negroni & Orange/ pomegranate cocktail were delicious. Unfortunately the avocado toast wasn’t available, but we’ll be back. Our server Janet was great too!!
    More info
    OswaldPrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Santa Cruz
    4.6
  • Terri
    Hawaii •1 review
    5.0
    Dined on Nov 19, 2024
    Beautiful evening, great food and our waiter was fantanstic.
    More info
    Jack O'Neill Restaurant & LoungePrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Santa Cruz
    4.7
  • Kathy
    San Francisco Bay Area •8 reviews
    4.0
    Dined on Nov 13, 2024
    I chose Chocolate for a birthday/retirement lunch with family. I was the only chocoholic in our party, but all enjoyed the food. We all got different hot chocolates to begin, a variety of main dishes, and different desserts, all of which we liked. I got a dark Colombian hot chocolate, which packed the kind of deep punch I like. I also got the chicken mole. They now have only one type of mole, which was a little spicier than I'm used to. I acclimated quickly and gobbled it all up, although the spice did affect the taste of the remaining hot chocolate. For dessert, I got the chocolate sin cake, which was nice and dark, though not as dense as I expected. We ate inside, which was rather dark--I had to walk over to a window to read the menu. Service was generally good and well timed, although the one soda ordered was not brought. The restaurant is quite small, so it's probably never loud inside; we were there mid-afternoon, and there were only a handful of other patrons. Metered parking right outside on the street was surprisingly available, although not cheap. There is also a covered lot right around the corner. We will definitely return!
    More info
    Chocolate the RestaurantPrice: Expensive• Californian• Santa Cruz
    4.7
  • Kriss
    San Francisco Bay Area •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Oct 31, 2024
    We sat at the bar and had a great time! We were served good food, were entertained by staff and customers, always a good time 🫶🏼
    More info
    SudaPrice: Expensive• American• Santa Cruz
    4.8

Discover best date night restaurants in Santa Cruz

Searching for the ideal date night destination in the Santa Cruz / Capitola / Aptos area? Our carefully curated selection of restaurants offers a variety of romantic atmospheres and exquisite dining options that cater perfectly to a special evening out. Each venue is chosen for its unique charm, exceptional service, and the ability to create memorable dining experiences. Revel in the scenic beauty and the cozy, intimate settings that define the dining scene in this picturesque region of the San Francisco Bay Area. From gourmet cuisine to breathtaking ocean views, these establishments ensure a magical date night. Discover the perfect spot to connect and enjoy a delectable meal, making your date night truly unforgettable. This selection showcases the best of local dining, emphasizing both quality and the romantic ambiance essential for a perfect evening.

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