The Alley-Oop brings moody New York cocktail-lounge style to downtown Santa Cruz, pairing classic drinks with small plates and late-night date-night atmosphere.
Alfaro Family Vineyards’ 2025 “A” Estate Chardonnay offers bright pear, apple and white peach flavors, while a summer reception pairs local wine with photography.
The Hotel Bar debuts its food menu in downtown Santa Cruz, while Inoa Poke brings Hawaiian-style bowls and a local film series explores plant-based eating.
Mark C. Anderson visits Bad Animal in Santa Cruz, where Chef Nick Hahn’s market-driven menu turns seasonal appetizers into bold, shareable flavor experiences.
Andrew Steingrube checks in with Solaire Restaurant & Bar at Hotel Paradox, where a revamped menu, local partnerships and poolside energy are giving the restaurant a new identity.
Village Foods debuts a new East Cliff Drive micro grocery and eatery with prepared meals, grab-and-go options and local goods, while Seabright and Harbor businesses look for creative ways to stay connected during the Murray Street Bridge closure.
Luna’s Borikén Bites brings Puerto Rican flavor to Abbott Square with empanadillas, chicharrón de pollo, jibarito sliders, slow-roasted pork, traditional desserts and owner Ali Luna’s blend of food, music and cultural heritage.
Steel Bonnet Brewing expands toward Salinas while its Scotts Valley outpost becomes an experimental hub, H&H Fresh Seafood opens on the Westside, and Toriman brings Japanese market and sake-tasting energy to the local dining scene.
At Watsonville’s Miyuki Restaurant, longtime server and sushi chef Chris Ishikawa helps preserve a home-cooked Japanese dining tradition built on loyal regulars, standout sushi and a Wednesday-only signature ramen that has earned its own local following.
Frank Family Vineyards’ 2025 Carneros Rosé of Pinot Noir brings peach, wild strawberry, white nectarine and citrus notes just in time for summer celebrations.
