Location: Capitola
Top Restaurants in Capitola
Countries
Best American food near Capitola, California, United States
Find out what American restaurants to try in Capitola. Capitola, just minutes south of Santa Cruz, is California’s oldest seaside resort town, and boasts a Mediterranean flavor. An esplanade winds around village shops and bistros, while picture-ready views from the Capitola Wharf create a relaxing atmosphere. Experience signature events like the Capitola Art & Wine Festival, Capitola Begonia Festival, wine tasting rooms, and shopping. Take a hillside “cable car” to dinner overlooking Soquel Creek, next to scenic gardens and waterfalls.
Things to do in Capitola
10. Discretion Brewing
Overall Ratings
4 based on 68 reviews
We are a Family-Owned Company Dedicated to Handcrafted Exquisite Organic Beer. We define DISCRETION as wisdom, wit and kindness. These qualities shape our interactions with each other, our ever-growing circle of customers, our community, and our beer. Ele
Reviewed By John M
People who like to visit different micro breweries should visit Discretion, among the others in Santa Cruz county. The food options have varied since they opened, and appear stable for now, and it is good to eat some food while consuming alcohol. The convenient location and fact that they like dogs will be good for some people. Their beer is less inspired than the prestigous Santa Adairius Rustic Ales, or even Corralitos Brewing, and so I do not go back very often, unless an out of the area friend wants to see many different breweries.
9. The Sand Bar
Overall Ratings
4 based on 51 reviews
Reviewed By irish_captain
On a return visit to Capitola, we were looking for somewhere to eat in the middle of town and tried here. We had eaten in a few other places previously so we said we'd try here. I wasn't too sure of what we'd get, but we were pleasantly surprised! The taco's were excellent! Good service & getting seated outside on a sunny warm November day was great! Definitely recommended.
8. Carpo's
Overall Ratings
4 based on 88 reviews
Reviewed By RonCentralCA
Carpo's has been around for along time, and deservedly so. Good sandwiches, small plates and a salad bar.
7. Cafe Sparrow
Overall Ratings
4 based on 252 reviews
Reviewed By Mamjensen
We went to Café Sparrow on a Sunday evening. We had a very enjoyable meal. Our server Madison was excellent. The food was outstanding from the soup to the entrees to the dessert. I will definitely return to this nice restaurant.
6. Linda's Seabreeze Cafe
Overall Ratings
4 based on 375 reviews
Reviewed By Sue L
Linda's lived up to other reviewers' positive recommendations. Friendly staff, funky atmosphere, clean, and fun. We ordered the stuffed (with avocado and tomato) grilled cheese sandwich (on crunchy sourdough bread) and the veggie patty gardenburger. Each was accompanied by a generous pile of hot and crispy country fries. The burger had lots of side extras - tomatoes, pickles, red onions and lettuce leaves - both yellow and dijon mustard available. We split and shared our sandwiches and both agreed on their winning flavor. Cash only, but there's an ATM machine if you need some - very convenient. Linda's is a little off the beaten path, but well worth seeking out. We definitely will on our next visit to the area.
5. Avenue Cafe
Overall Ratings
4 based on 56 reviews
Reviewed By martinione
Loved this breakfast spot. Quaint and homey atmosphere. Menu has something for everyone. Very attentive service with great coffee. I had the eggs Benedict with spinach and avocados. Nummy hash browns. My husband had pigs in the blanket. The pancakes were delicious. Wish we lived closer as this place is a winner.
4. East End Gastropub
Overall Ratings
4 based on 52 reviews
Reviewed By John M
A great choice for people living in this area, or who are also seeing a movie at Cinelux, located right next door. Happy hour is limited to $1-2 off drinks, but the prices are fair enough, anyway. Every single person went out of their way to be friendly on this visit, and our burgers arrived cooked exactly the way that we wanted them. It can be noisy inside, and drafty near the front door, but less popular times allow your choice of seating. We'll be back.
3. Cafe Cruz
Overall Ratings
4 based on 264 reviews
Reviewed By 237WilliamB
Donât judge this restaurant from the outside because the inside is beautiful. They have both inside and outside dining. The food and service were both great. Canât wait to come back.
2. Paradise Beach Grille
Overall Ratings
4 based on 378 reviews
Located on the water in Capitola Village, Paradise Beach Grille is the perfect place to enjoy lunch with a view or to finish a perfect day on the beach. We feature a contemporary menu with a Pacific Rim flare. Enjoy our famous Coconut Prawns appetizer, fo
Reviewed By TamaraC210
Capitola by the Sea is beautiful but the restraurants tend to be touristy, especially on the Esplanade. Paradise is our go to place. Sit on the patio which over looks Soquel Creek and enjoy the view. The food is very good and the staff and manager are excellent. A glass of Proseco and the cheese plate is my favorite. Other favorites are the BLT and the French Onion Soup. If it is coolish they have nice patio heaters or there is a room with a fireplace in the back.
1. Shadowbrook Restaurant
Overall Ratings
4 based on 965 reviews
Quirky dining rooms & views of Soquel Creek come alongside California cuisine & a wine list.
Reviewed By Karen P
Charming old school dining on the Soquel River in Capitola. Brisk friendly service and location to die for. Funicular takes you down a steep but short mountain side to the chalet like building. Seafood fresh and nicely prepared. Portions adequate with delicious sides. Wine list average.
