ROMANTIC AND/OR SPECIAL RESTAURANTS
Yes, they roast their fine array of meats and other delectables over actual peach wood. At the Pasatiempo golf course, just a ways up Highway 17 at the Pasatiempo Exit.
This is the place to go for a big juicy steak or peach-glazed ribs---carnivore's heaven. Comfortable too! At 303 Soquel Ave, between Ocean and Pacific.
Their low-lit dining room with its ocean views near the Boardwalk at 101 Main is romantic and elegant beyond belief, plus they have excellent food and a really amazing wine list. Not really for young kids.
California cuisine, a bit more upscale but kid-friendly and right on the beach, with great views. Often there's entertainment and dancing upstairs. Right on the mouth of the Small Craft Harbor on the Southwest side.
Thai House (458-3546)
The best Thai in Santa Cruz, hands down. Try the coconut milk soup and the green curry and the fried banana and honey and the...did I mention their menu is huge as well? A mysterious and dimly lit dining room at near Ocean St at 353 Soquel.
Caribbean-Mexican fusion at the middle of the yacht harbor near the southwest end of the Lake Ave Bridge--excellent! Be sure to try the yummy coconut rice, the rotisserie-broiled chickens, and a cool drink of their horchata (a lightly cinnamon-spiced rice milk drink from Mexico) or their great Margaritas.
Takara (464-1818)
Elegant Japanese dining at 3775 Capitola Road near 38st Ave. Sushi and sake bars. On the more extravagent side.
This quaint and elegant destination is rightly known locally as THE "valentine restaurant"--it's easily the most romantic place around. When arriving, you can choose between a long, winding garden path down to the riverside location, or you can catch the tiny hillside cable car. Huge and rambling and unique, with old-world nooks and crannies. Full bar and tasty food, too right on the river, up the hill from Capitola at 1750 Wharf Rd.
Zelda's (475-4900)
Leisurely service, but incredible beachside views at 203 Esplanade in Capitola Village. Skip their dinner (there are worthier destinations in Capitola) but do go there for drinks and watching the sunset.
Paradise Sushi (464-3328)
Sushi lovers and Japanese fans will adore this upstairs find in Capitola Village 200 Monterey Ave, above the ice-cream shop on Monterey Ave. Sip sake at the bar and watch the friendly chef whip up sushi creations that range from the classic to the truly bizzare. Whether you try the peanut-butter, chili-pepper and salmon roll is up to you. Their more conventional Japanse cuisine is delicious too.
Thai Basil (479-8985)
A tiny little restaurant in the Capitola Village at 210 Monterey Ave that serves up spicy Thai at its four tables.
El Palomar Restaurant
1336 Pacific Avenue Santa Cruz, CA 95060 Phone: (831) 425-7575
