Sϋda is an Eastside favorite restaurant and bar that manager Melanie Lashbrook says has lively, fun and edgy vibes that reflect the Pleasure Point neighborhood.
She grew up in the industry, and has always loved it—not only the food and cocktails, but also the fast pace and culture. Closed Mondays, Sϋda is open every other day of the week for lunch and dinner from 11:30am-9pm. They also offer brunch starting at 10am on Saturday and Sunday. Lashbrook spoke to GT recently about the restaurant and its most inspired offerings.
What kind of food does Süda serve?
MELANIE LASHBROOK: I would say our food is California fusion cuisine mixed with some gastropub, and the menu is heavily influenced by guest feedback and favorites as well. We’re a neighborhood bar. We want our offerings to be upscale, clean and flavorful. What sets our food apart is a healthy farm-to-table approach mixed with high quality items, some of which guests have seen before, but also an influx of more unique seasonal dishes.
What are some popular menu items?
Definitely our burger, which I consider the best in town. It’s an Aussie chuck half-pound burger with Irish cheddar, sautéed onions, pickles, lettuce and garlic aioli on a brioche bun. It’s really juicy, thick and delicious, and the gamey Irish cheddar compliments the sweetness of the caramelized onions, all between the nice buttery bun. For appetizers, we have a lot of shareable finger foods such as our crispy artichoke, which is marinated and then flash-fried and comes with smoky chipotle aioli to dip. Also, don’t sleep on our poke bowl, which has cubed ahi tossed in toasted sesame scallion oil over sushi rice with bright scoopable vegetables, such as watermelon radish and cucumber. It’s definitely worthy.
What drinks is the bar known for?
We’re known for our craft cocktails, such as the crisp and refreshing Süda 75, which is our version of a French 75. It has cucumber-basil vodka, gin, lemon juice, and is finished with sparkling wine for a note of effervescence. Our Firecracker is fun and flirty. It has all the right things—a little bit of heat, sweetness from fruit, and just the right amount of booze. Our cocktails also rotate seasonally, and we look forward to serving our upcoming summer offerings.
3910 Portola Drive, Santa Cruz. 831-600-7068, eatsuda.com.
