Santa Cruz's Best Seafood [Updated 2024]

Having personally reviewed a total of 12 restaurants, I can confidently share my top recommendations for the finest seafood in Santa Cruz. From delectable ocean delicacies to tantalizing fish dishes, this guide aims to provide you with a diverse culinary experience.

Whether you're a local seeking a new hotspot or a tourist looking for an authentic taste of the coastal cuisine, you've come to the right place. Join me as we explore the hidden gems and acclaimed establishments that have impressed my discerning taste buds.

Get ready to embark on a seafood journey like no other in the beautiful city of Santa Cruz!

Gilda's

Highlights
Delicious house salad
Prime rib dinner
Fish n chips
Delicious bread
Clam chowder
Amazing eggs Benedict
Fresh fruit bowl
Stunning ocean views

Let me start by saying that Gilda's is a hidden gem when it comes to seafood in Santa Cruz. From the moment I entered the restaurant, I was greeted with a warm and welcoming atmosphere, perfectly complemented by stunning ocean views.

I started my culinary adventure at Gilda's with their mouthwatering clam chowder. Every spoonful was a fragrant and creamy delight, with just the right amount of briny goodness. It was clear that the chef had taken special care in creating this flavorful bowl of comfort.

Next up, I couldn't resist trying their famous fish n chips. The fish was perfectly battered and fried to a crispy golden brown, while still maintaining its moist and flaky texture. Paired with their delicious house salad, it was a match made in seafood heaven.

As if that wasn't enough, I was also tempted by their amazing eggs Benedict. The combination of poached eggs, buttery hollandaise sauce, and tender seafood was a decadent treat that left me wanting more.

To round out my meal, I enjoyed a refreshing fresh fruit bowl, which served as a perfect palate cleanser. And let's not forget the delicious bread, which was freshly baked and served warm – the perfect accompaniment to a seafood feast.

Overall, my experience at Gilda's was nothing short of exceptional. From the friendly service to the delectable dishes, every detail was thoughtfully executed. Whether you're a seafood lover or simply looking for a taste of Santa Cruz's culinary delights, Gilda's should definitely be on your list of must-visit seafood establishments.

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Ideal Bar & Grill

Highlights
Award-winning clam chowder
Delicious and well-balanced food
Excellent service
Beachside location
Delightful dinner experience

Let me start by saying that Ideal Bar & Grill is a hidden gem for seafood lovers in Santa Cruz. As soon as I walked in, I was greeted by a warm and welcoming atmosphere, not to mention the breathtaking beachside view that was just steps away.

The first thing that caught my attention was the award-winning clam chowder on the menu. Naturally, I couldn't resist trying it, and boy, was I glad I did! The chowder was rich, creamy, and packed with flavor - a true delight for the taste buds. It perfectly set the tone for an unforgettable seafood experience.

Moving on to the main course, I opted for their daily seafood special. The dish was beautifully presented, and the seafood was incredibly fresh and cooked to perfection. Each bite was a burst of oceanic goodness. The chefs at Ideal Bar & Grill truly know how to create delicious and well-balanced seafood dishes.

To accompany my meal, I ordered a glass of crisp white wine, recommended by the friendly and knowledgeable staff. Speaking of the service, it was top-notch. The waitstaff was attentive, courteous, and made sure every detail of my dining experience was taken care of.

The beachside location of Ideal Bar & Grill added an extra touch of magic to the evening. Enjoying a delightful seafood dinner while listening to the sound of crashing waves is an experience that cannot be replicated anywhere else.

Overall, my experience at Ideal Bar & Grill was nothing short of fantastic. From the award-winning clam chowder to the excellent service, everything exceeded my expectations. If you're in Santa Cruz and craving some superb seafood, don't miss the opportunity to visit Ideal Bar & Grill. Your taste buds will thank you.

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Jack O'Neill Restaurant & Lounge

Highlights
Great views
Delicious food
Awesome happy hour
Great atmosphere
Ocean views

Walking into Jack O'Neill Restaurant & Lounge, I was immediately captivated by the breathtaking ocean views. There's something magical about enjoying a delicious meal with a backdrop of crashing waves and salty sea air.

Speaking of delicious, the food at Jack O'Neill did not disappoint. From the moment I took my first bite, I knew I was in for a treat. The seafood was fresh, flavorful, and expertly prepared. From succulent crab cakes to mouthwatering grilled fish, every dish was a delight to the taste buds.

One of the highlights of my visit was the awesome happy hour. The selection of discounted drinks and appetizers was impressive, and it made for a perfect afternoon of relaxation and indulgence. The friendly and attentive staff added to the experience, making sure every detail was taken care of.

The atmosphere at Jack O'Neill was wonderful. The dim lighting, comfortable seating, and tasteful decor created a cozy and inviting space. Whether you're looking for a romantic dinner or a fun night out with friends, this restaurant has you covered.

In conclusion, Jack O'Neill Restaurant & Lounge offers more than just seafood. It embodies the essence of Santa Cruz with its great views, delicious food, and great atmosphere. If you're a seafood lover looking for a memorable dining experience, I highly recommend giving Jack O'Neill a visit. You won't be disappointed!

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The Water Street Grill

With its coastal vibes and mouthwatering seafood dishes, The Water Street Grill in Santa Cruz is a true gem for seafood lovers. From their creamy clam chowder to their succulent Dungeness crab, every bite is a delicious adventure. The lively atmosphere and friendly staff add to the overall experience. Trust me, this place is a must-visit for any seafood enthusiast in Santa Cruz.

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Hula's Island Grill

With its playful island vibes and an extensive menu of mouthwatering seafood, Hula's Island Grill is a true gem in Santa Cruz. From their fresh catch of the day to their succulent tropical ceviche, every bite was a flavor explosion. This is definitely a must-visit spot for seafood lovers in Santa Cruz!

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Riva Fish House

cue drumroll Ladies and gentlemen, let me introduce you to the seafood wonderland that is Riva Fish House in sunny Santa Cruz! 🌊🦞 This hidden gem is a seafood lover's paradise, with fresh catches that will make your taste buds dance the samba. Trust me, you'll feel like Neptune himself blessed this place with his trident. From succulent crab cakes to perfectly grilled swordfish, every bite is like a salty kiss from the ocean. Oh, and did I mention the crab chowder? It's a creamy, comforting bowl of goodness that will have you saying, "More, please!" And let's not forget about the friendly and attentive staff who will ensure your seafood experience is smooth sailing. So, if you find yourself in Santa Cruz and craving some top-notch seafood, do yourself a favor and make a beeline for Riva Fish House. Your taste buds will thank you. 🦀🐠

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FireFish Grill

FireFish Grill in Santa Cruz is a seafood enthusiasts' dream. Their playful menu features an array of oceanic delights prepared with flair. From their succulent grilled octopus to the buttery lobster tail, every bite is a taste of seafood paradise. Get yourself here and dive into a world of scrumptious seafood!

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Woodies Café

With its charming seaside ambiance and an impressive menu of fresh seafood, Woodies Café in Santa Cruz is a hidden gem. From their succulent crab cakes to their flavorful clam chowder, every bite is a burst of coastal delight. Don't miss their signature seafood platter, a mouthwatering feast that's worth every penny.

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Dolphin

Dolphin in Santa Cruz is a true pearl of the sea. With its playful yet sophisticated atmosphere, this seafood spot offers a mouthwatering selection of ocean delicacies. From succulent lobster to perfectly seared scallops, Dolphin captures the essence of Santa Cruz's underwater bounty. Don't miss the opportunity to dive into a culinary adventure at Dolphin!

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Stagnaro Brothers Seafood

Stagnaro Brothers Seafood in Santa Cruz is a hidden gem that offers a playful yet professional dining experience. From their succulent crab cakes to their perfectly grilled salmon, each bite is an explosion of flavor. The charming ambiance and attentive staff make this place a must-visit for seafood aficionados.

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Makai Island Kitchen & Groggery

Makai Island Kitchen & Groggery in Santa Cruz has immersed me in a delightful seafood adventure. From the moment I walked in, the island vibes transported me to a tropical paradise. Their zesty ceviche and succulent grilled fish left my taste buds longing for more. This is definitely a must-visit spot for seafood enthusiasts!

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Johnny's Harborside

Johnny's Harborside in Santa Cruz is a seaside gem that will leave your taste buds dancing. The vibrant atmosphere sets the stage for an array of fresh and succulent seafood delights. From the perfectly grilled scallops to the melt-in-your-mouth lobster bisque, each bite is a heavenly journey. Don't miss the Captain's Seafood Platter, a tantalizing selection of pristine oceanic treasures. Whether you're a seafood aficionado or a curious explorer, Johnny's Harborside is a must-visit for a fish-tastic experience.

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