DINE LOCAL GUIDE FALL 2021

All of these restaurants emphasize local ingredients and they also advertise in Edible Monterey Bay! Opening information is subject to change, so please check online before you go and tell them we sent you.

APTOS

Mentone
174 Aptos Village Way
mentonerestaurant.com

Named after the Riviera town of Mentone, perched on the border of France and Italy, this new restaurant from celebrated chef David Kinch always delivers a good time. Centered on wood- red pizza made with 48-hour fermented dough in a Valoriani oven, the menu also includes inventive pasta dishes, salads, housemade gelato and craft cocktails. Open W–Su 5–9pm. Bar open F–Sa 5–10pm.

Persephone
7945 Soquel Drive
831.612.6511
persephonerestaurant.com

With a namesake like the mythic Persephone, this restaurant in Aptos proclaims its deep reverence for seasonal cooking.  emes central to harvest, winter and spring are core to Persephone’s story, and are re ected in the changing menu at this  ne dining destination, where chef Cori Goudge-Ayer presents inventive, ingredientdriven creations.  e restaurant is a family-run passion project, bringing together parents, siblings and a long history of culinary arts in a beautifully redesigned space overlooking Aptos Creek. Open  –Sa noon–3pm and 5–9pm, Su noon–3pm.

New Leaf Community Markets
161 Aptos Village Way
831.685.8500
newleaf.com

This latest branch of the beloved local market group occupies the remodeled Hihn Apple Barn, built in 1891. In addition to local groceries and organic produce, New Leaf Aptos has made-to-order sandwiches, pizza, freshly rolled sushi, soup and hand-prepped salads, as well as a co ee bar, juice and smoothie bar and organic Straus soft serve ice cream. Open daily 8am–9pm.

The Penny Ice Creamery
141 Aptos Village Way, Suite 2
831.204.2523
thepennyicecreamery.com
Open Su–Th noon–9pm, F–Sa noon–10pm. See The Penny description under Santa Cruz for more.

CAPITOLA

East End Gastropub
1501 41st Avenue
831.475.8010
eastendpub.com

East End Gastropub is a sister eatery to the popular West End Tap & Kitchen, but aside from sharing owners and chefs, East End’s beautiful, modern interior is entirely different and o ers its own robust, sophisticated, beer-friendly menu. Chef Geo rey Hargrave has created dishes that are familiar yet innovative, such as crispy Brussels sprouts with maple miso glaze and fresh  sh en papillote. Shared plates, pizzas and salads come in generous portions for a familystyle meal.  e restaurant also o ers a rotating selection of local beer and a strong wine list. Open M– 4–9pm, F noon–9pm, Sa-Su 11am–3pm for brunch, and 4–9pm.

Margaritaville Capitola
231 Esplanade
831.476.2263
margaritavillecapitola.com

For more than 30 years, Margaritaville has been welcoming guests to Capitola Village. An ownership change and complete remodel in 2015 made the restaurant better than ever, dedicated to serving Mexican cuisine made from scratch with an emphasis on fresh seafood. The dog-friendly patio overlooking Capitola beach is a great place to enjoy a margarita and a Baja fish taco, or raw oysters on the half shell. Other menu favorites are chile verde and chicken mole enchiladas. Online ordering is now available. Happy hour M–F 3–5pm. Open M–F 11:30am–9pm, Sa–Su 11am–9pm.

Mijo’s Taqueria
200 Monterey Avenue, Suite 2
831.465.0228
mijostaqueria.com

Serving the local community and visitors alike in Capitola Village, Mijo’s Taqueria features bold and unique  avors in a new age taqueria setting. Chef Anthony Guajardo’s passion for cooking developed from being in his Mexican and Italian grandmothers’ kitchens growing up. Eager to combine his authentic family recipes with a modern culinary twist, he opened Mijo’s, conveniently located just a quick walk from the beach and available for dining in or ordering to go. Open Su– 11:30am– 7pm, F–Sa 11am–7:30pm.

New Leaf Community Markets
1210 41st Avenue
831.479.7987
newleaf.com

The café at the entrance offers great alternatives to fast food, serving economical daily specials, wraps, pizza and homemade soup and espresso drinks—with free wi-fi in the outdoor dining area. Inside the market, a full deli has made-to-order sandwiches, healthy takeout salads and entrée items. Open daily 8am–9pm.

The Penny Ice Creamery
820 41st Avenue
831.204.2523
831.204.2523
thepennyicecreamery.com
Open Su–Th noon–10pm, F–Sa noon–11pm. See The Penny description under Santa Cruz for more.

Shadowbrook
1750 Wharf Road
831.475.1511
shadowbrook-capitola.com

A Santa Cruz County landmark since 1947, the worldfamous Shadowbrook continues to be an overwhelming favorite with locals and visitors alike. Its fine food, extensive wine list and unparalleled setting and ambiance have earned it numerous awards, including Northern California’s “Most Romantic Restaurant” and “Best Date Night Restaurant.” Rock Room Lounge and Patio open daily noon–10pm, dining rooms open M–F 4–8:30pm, Sa 2–9:30pm, Su 2–8:30pm.

CARMEL

Alvarado Street Brewery & Bistro
Carmel Plaza, Suite 112
831.293.8621
asb.beer

From the team behind award-winning Alvarado Street Brewery, the Carmel bistro o ers a full menu of ASB brews, along with hard cider, local wines and inventive craft cocktails. The menu goes beyond pub food to include oysters, fried calamari and ceviche, along with its popular burgers and truffle or garlic fries. Open Su–Th 11:30am–9pm, F–Sa 11:30am–10pm.

Earthbound Farm’s Farm Stand
7250 Carmel Valley Road
831.625.6219
earthboundfarm.com

At its newly renovated Carmel Valley Farm Stand, Earthbound Farm’s 100% certi ed organic kitchen delights with housemade soups, sandwiches, salads, baked goods and fresh juices and smoothies. Food is available to be enjoyed on our beautiful grounds or for takeaway. Experience picturesque Carmel Valley as you stroll through Earthbound’s organic gardens and learn about its pioneering local heritage and commitment to organic integrity. And as always, pick up some fresh, local organic fruits and veggies to take home. Open daily 8am–6pm.

Grasing’s
6th Avenue and Mission
831.624.6562
grasings.co

Chef-proprietor Kurt Grasing’s namesake restaurant has expanded since opening in 1998 to include two large dining rooms, multiple outdoor dining areas and the ever-popular bar/lounge. A Carmel classic located in the heart of the village, Grasing’s serves California cuisine, with an award-winning wine list and twists on traditional cocktails. Open daily M–F noon–3pm and 5–9pm, Sa–Su 10:30am–3pm and 5–9pm.

Rio Grill
101 Crossroads Boulevard
831.625.5436
riogrill.com

Deeply flavorful Southwestern cuisine is the specialty that executive chef Eduardo Coronel brings to the table for lunch and dinner. Go exotic with a corn truffle and wild mushroom tamale, go local with the fire-roasted Castroville artichoke or go wild west with an order of almond wood smoked BBQ pork back ribs. Open Su–Th 11:30am–8pm, F–Sa 11:30am–9pm.

Sea Harvest Fish Market & Restaurant
100 Crossroads Boulevard, Suite A
831.626.3626
seaharvest
fishmarketandrestaurant.com

The Deyerle family that owns this local gem has its own fishing boats for the freshest catch on the Monterey Peninsula. Sea Harvest doubles as a fish market and casual restaurant with indoor and outdoor seating. The oysters and clam chowder are customer favorites, but don’t miss the fried combo platter, grilled fillets and fish tacos. Open daily 8am–8pm.

The Stationaery
San Carlos Square, Between 5th and 6th avenues
831.250.7183
thestationaery.com

A neighborhood restaurant offering daily brunch and dinner, The Stationaery is owned by your hospitable hosts Anthony and Alissa Carnazzo. The kitchen team, led by chef Amalia Scatena, specializes in comforting  avors and local ingredients, with elegant presentations. Open  –M 8am–2pm, 4–8pm. Closed Tu–W.

CARMEL VALLEY

Jerome’s Carmel Valley Market
2 Chambers Lane
831.659.2472
jeromescarmelvalleymarket.com

A chef-owned, friendly neighborhood market, Jerome’s offers local and organic produce, natural meats and seafood, and a great selection of domestic and imported wine, beer and microbrews. French-trained chef and owner Jerome Viel prepares delicious hot foods, sandwiches and salads for eating at outdoor seating or take-away. The offerings start with breakfast burritos, croissants and other French pastries in the morning, followed by favorites such as coq au vin, spaghetti carbonara and chicken enchiladas for lunch and dinner. Open M–Sa 7am–7pm, Su 7am–6pm.

Lucia Restaurant & Bar
Bernardus Lodge & Spa • 415 W. Carmel Valley Road
831.658.3400
bernarduslodge.com

Indulge in artisanal California country cuisine, awardwinning wines and an expansive heated outdoor terrace with the  nest restaurant view in Carmel Valley. Named for the Santa Lucia mountain range and wine appellation that beckons to the south, Lucia o ers both a signature tasting menu and dishes à la carte. Wine list is equally notable. A private chef’s table and wine cellar table are also available for special occasions. Open daily 7am–10pm.

FELTON

Wild Roots Market
6240 Highway 9
831.335.7322 (Felton)
13159 Highway 9
831.338.7211 (Boulder Creek)
wildrootsmarket.com

Wild Roots’ 100% organic produce, natural groceries, organic meats and FishWise-certi ed seafood all go into the prepared foods o ered by the store’s full-service deli, salad and soup bar and juice bar. Enjoy on the patio out in front or take home. Open daily 9am–9pm.

MONTEREY

Alta Bakery + Café
502 Munras Avenue
831.920.1018
altamonterey.com

Set inside the historic Cooper Molera Adobe with a sunny outdoor patio, Alta Bakery is a bustling co ee house with exquisite breads and pastries from culinary director Ben Spungin and his team. Light lunch options change with the seasons and are beautifully presented, including salads, soups and the much-Instagrammed “obligatory avocado toast.” Open daily 7am–4pm.

the C restaurant + bar
InterContinental The Clement Monterey
750 Cannery Row
831.375.4500
ictheclementmonterey.com

Step into the C restaurant + bar, and the bustle of Cannery Row will seem like a world away. Elegant yet relaxed, a stunning renovation opens up ocean views from the C’s floor-to-ceiling windows and oceanside deck. Executive chef Matt Bolton provides equally gorgeous food, imaginatively prepared from sustainably sourced seafood, meats and produce. Creative craft cocktails from mixologist Anthony Vitacca are sure to please. Open W–  7–11am, 5–9pm; F 7–11am, 5–10pm; Sa 7–11:30am, 5–10pm; Su 7–11:30am, 5–9pm. Closed M–Tu. Check website for return of lunch service.

Elroy’s Fine Foods
15 Soledad Drive
831.373.3737
elroysfinefoods.com

The dream market of owners Jay and Chloe Dolata, Elroy’s has an extensive range of gourmet groceries, local seafood, natural meats and fresh organic produce. It also boasts a kitchen with a wood- red grill and prepared foods to go or to eat in. The Bar @ Elroy’s serves co ee, smoothies and a savvy selection of natural wines. Open M–Sa 8am–8pm, Su 9am–7pm.

Estéban Restaurant
700 Munras Avenue
831.375.0176
estebanrestaurant.com

At the heart of the downtown Monterey dining scene, Estéban Restaurant serves Spanish in uenced cuisine made from fresh, local, and seasonal ingredients. The menu features a selection of long-time Estéban favorites, as well as fresh, new dishes created by executive chef Mario Garcia, who spins out wonderful dishes like Crispy Pulpo, served with remoulade, Yukon potato, chorizo, rosemary chili oil and grilled radicchio. Open for dinner nightly 4–8pm. Tapas hour from 4–6pm nightly.

Montrio
414 Calle Principal
831.648.8880
montrio.com

Closed for remodeling as of press time, Montrio is expected to reopen this fall with talented new executive chef Adrian Diday. The Virginia native has extensive  ne dining credentials including stints at three-Michelin-starred restaurants, Daniel in New York and The Inn at Little Washington. He promises customer favorites using elevated techniques. Check online for opening information.

Sea Harvest Restaurant & Fish Market
598 Foam Street
831.626.0547
seaharvestmonterey.com

This fresh and casual seafood spot near Cannery Row is perfect after a day exploring the Monterey Bay Aquarium. There are grilled entrées and lots of fried options with chips, including calamari, clams, prawns, scallops and oysters. Try Sea Harvest’s popular clam chowder or a basket of crispy artichoke hearts. Open daily 9am–7pm.

Tarpy’s Roadhouse
2999 Monterey-Salinas Highway
831.647.1444
tarpys.com

An award-winning steakhouse serving generous portions of California comfort food, Tarpy’s Roadhouse occupies a sprawling 3½-acre property and stone building that used to be part of the Ryan Ranch homestead. In addition to expertly prepared steak, enjoy wood-fired salmon, chile-crusted chicken, braised lamb shank, classic meatloaf and smoked baby back ribs. Open Su–Th 11:30am– 8pm, F–Sa 11:30am–9pm.

Wild Plum Café & Bakery
731 Munras Avenue
831.646.3109
thewildplumcafe.com

Located in Old Monterey in a vibrant and diverse neighborhood, Wild Plum draws people from all walks of life with sustainable bistro fare that uses organic, locally sourced produce, hormone-free Diestel turkeys roasted on site, grass-fed beef and house-baked bread and pastries. Breakfasts include scrambles, omelets, and breakfast tacos and burritos, and for lunch, choose among soups, salads, sandwiches and paninis, burgers and house specialties. Food to go and catering available. Open W–M 7:30am–3:30pm, Tu closed.

MOSS LANDING

Sea Harvest
2420 Highway 1
831.728.7081
@seaharvestmosslanding

Outdoor tables on a wooden deck overlooking Elkhorn Slough are the perfect place to enjoy fresh seafood hauled in by a fisherman who is part of the Deyerle family that runs the restaurant. Choose from grilled catch of the day, shrimp Louie,  sh and chips or some of the best Bajastyle battered  sh tacos around. Open daily 11am–7pm.

PACIFIC GROVE

Happy Girl Kitchen Co.
173 Central Avenue
831.373.4475
happygirlkitchen.com

The menu changes daily at Happy Girl’s airy and bright Pacific Grove café, but the food is always delicious, organic and reasonably priced. The sandwich of the day, bowl of the day and soup of the day are always a good bet. To drink, you’ll  nd kombucha on tap and freshly roasted Captain + Stoker co ee brewed to perfection. Homemade baked goods include a daily scone, cookies and turnovers. Open daily 7am–5pm.

Julia’s Vegetarian
1180 Forest Avenue, Suite F
831.656.9533
juliasveg.com

Voted the best vegetarian restaurant on the Monterey Peninsula for more that 10 years running. Julia’s is known for its wild and exotic mushrooms and housebrewed kombuchas on tap. The menu features a creative twist on vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free food. Try some of the most popular dishes like the fried “egg & bacon” sandwich, exotic mushroom sampler and buffalo cauliflower wings. Open Su–Th 10am–8pm, F–Sa 10am–9pm.

Mezzaluna
1188 Forest Avenue
831.372.5325
mezzalunapasteria.com

Owners Chef Soerke Peters and Amy Stou er keep their restaurant simple and amazing—and chef Peters is a leader in sustainability on the Monterey Peninsula. Pasta, mozzarella and gelato are made fresh daily. Starters include clam chowder with torched bone marrow, duck liver pâté and grilled octopus, and there are five dishes starring locally crafted mozzarella. Pasta choices are imaginative and include options such as pappardelle with wine braised rabbit, Dungeness crab ravioli and potato gnocchi with gorgonzola and black truffle oil. Open W–Su 5–9pm. Closed M–Tu.

Wild Fish
545 Lighthouse Avenue
831.373.8523
wild-fish.com

Owners Liz and Kelvin Jacobs welcome you to feast on the bounty of nearby waters and farms at their 100% local and organic seafood house, enjoying exquisite dishes like crispy sablefish, halibut and petrale sole, accompanied by local vegetables. Fresh oysters, innovative salads, house-baked bread and sides like fingerling potatoes with poppyseed crème fraîche or baby carrots with wild nettle pesto, make this a dining destination. Did we mention English sticky toffee pudding for dessert? Open Su–Th 11:30am–3pm and 5–8:30pm, F–Sa 11:30am– 3pm and 5–9:15pm.

SANTA CRUZ

Barceloneta
1541 Pacific Avenue, Suite B
831.900.5222
eatbarceloneta.com

With its cheerful beach stripes, wicker light fixtures and whimsical details, dinner at Barceloneta can feel like a holiday. Owned by chef Brett Emerson and his wife Elan, who ensures service is superb, Barceloneta offers Spanish tapas made with seasonal, farmers’ market produce and several types of authentic paella, along with Spanish wines, beers and cocktails. Open Tu–Sa 5–8:30pm. Closed Su–M.

Charlie Hong Kong
1141 Soquel Avenue
831.426.5664
charliehongkong.com

Charlie Hong Kong has been providing the Santa Cruz community with healthy, sustainable, a ordable and high-quality food since 1998. The colorful, casual eatery’s delicious fusion of Southeast Asian influences and the Central Coast’s local organic produce has made it an inclusive, family-friendly, neighborhood favorite. Its slogan is “love your body, eat organic,” and its cuisine is proof that fast food can be good for you. All signature dishes are vegan with the option to add meat or fish. Gluten-free options are available. Dog friendly. Open daily 11am–10pm.

Chocolate
1522 Pacific Avenue
831.427.9900
chocolatesantacruz.com

As its name suggests, there are all kinds of decadent chocolate desserts at Chocolate the restaurant, but this farm-to-fork local favorite is much more than a dessert spot. Everything is prepared simply and with local and organic ingredients whenever possible. From sandwiches, salads and soups at lunch to dinners that include chicken mole, barbecued roast pork and polenta plate, it’s all about celebrating the best of the Central Coast. Cocktails made with Santa Cruz-based Venus Spirits, a hot chocolate menu and local wines and beers can be found here as well. A party room for your special celebration is available, with seating and menu options to suit the occasion. Open Tu– and Su 4–8pm, F–Sa 4–9pm. Closed M.

Crow’s Nest
2218 E. Cliff Drive
831.476.4560
crowsnest-santacruz.com

A perfect spot to enjoy breakfast and lunch or catch a dinnertime sunset over the harbor, the nautical-themed Crow’s Nest is a Santa Cruz institution that never goes out of style. There’s always something happening, from live music to comedy nights and happy hours. Famous for its salads, house-smoked salmon and seafood entrées, the Crow’s Nest is a member of Seafood Watch and is a certi ed green business. Open M–F 9am–8:30pm, Sa– Su 8am–8:30pm.

Laílí
101B Cooper Street
831.423.4545
lailirestaurant.com

Exotic flavors of the Silk Road are served in a stylish dining room decorated in eggplant and pistachio colors and on a hidden candlelit patio. Locals rave about Laílí’s homemade naan served warm from the oven with a selection of Mediterranean dips. There is a wide variety of deliciously spiced vegetable dishes, and all meats are hormone free and free range. Check website for opening information.

La Posta
538 Seabright Avenue
831.457.2782
lapostarestaurant.com

A cozy neighborhood bistro not far from the Santa Cruz yacht harbor, La Posta chef Rodrigo Serna prepares traditional rustic Italian cuisine using local ingredients. The emphasis is on simple, seasonal selections, with the balance of the menu reflecting whatever produce is freshest right now. A sister restaurant of Soif Restaurant and Wine Bar, La Posta also o ers a great selection of wines. Open W–Su 5–8pm, closed M–Tu.

New Leaf Community Markets
1134 Pacific Avenue
831.425.1793
newleaf.com

New Leaf ’s headquarters in a former bank building on Pacific Avenue is a worthwhile stop for all foodies. Crowded with gourmet natural foods, it also has a deli with sandwiches, salads and hot entrées. A dining area out front is great for people watching and listening to street musicians. Open daily 8am–9pm.

New Leaf Community Markets
1101 Fair Avenue
831.426.1306
newleaf.com

The Westside New Leaf has a large deli counter and coffee bar, with a big selection of sandwiches, salads, bakery items, soups and other hot foods. You can eat at an instore counter or at tables outside. Open daily 7am–9pm.

Pearl of the Ocean
736 Water Street
831.457.2350
facebook.com/pearloftheoceanca

Award-winning chef/owner Ayoma Wilen goes beyond the expected traditional spice-infused dishes of Sri Lanka, creating locally inspired daily specials using fresh, organic produce from farmers’ markets and sustainably harvested seafood. Customer favorites include butternut squash curry, crab curry and wild salmon curry. To round out the flavor experience, there is a dizzying array of sides, like coconut leek sambal and kale mallam. The warm colors, altars and blessings that decorate the space help guests get a sense of Sri Lanka’s world-class hospitality, culture and beauty. Open daily 5–9pm.

The Penny Ice Creamery
913 Cedar Street
831.204.2523
t 831.204.2523
thepennyicecreamery.com

Lines out the front door of its converted Spanish bungalow are evidence of Penny’s popularity. All ice cream, including bases, is made from scratch on the premises using local organic ingredients when possible. Dozens of exotic flavors rotate seasonally, but two favorites are chocolate caramel sea salt and strawberry pink peppercorn. Open daily noon–11pm.

The Picnic Basket
125 Beach Street
831.427.9946
thepicnicbasketsc.com

Across the street from the main beach, owners of The Penny Ice Creamery have opened an alternative to boardwalk fast food. Sandwiches, organic salads, coffee and beer, all from local food artisans, and of course Penny’s popular ice cream, are all on offer to eat in or outside with your feet in the sand. Open daily 7am–4pm.

Snap Taco
1108 Pacific Avenue
831.824.6100
eatsnaptaco.com

This festive taco spot draws its inspiration from food traditions around the world, with imaginative tacos created using the best fresh, local and sustainable ingredients. Great for a quick bite or gathering with friends and family. Choose from snacks, tacos, bowls and sandwiches on the menu, as well as draft beers, the Snap Rita and specialty cocktails. Open Su–Tu and  11:30am–9pm, F–Sa 11:30am–10pm, closed W.

Soif Restaurant and Wine Bar
105 Walnut Avenue
831.423.2020
soifwine.com

Inspired by the offerings from local farmers and purveyors, executive chef Tom McNary’s cuisine shows California flair with super, seasonal dishes, all paired with local and hard-to-find wines, or a rotating selection of unique house cocktails. The bottle shop next door provides a world-class selection of wines and good advice on what to order. Raw oysters available on Wednesdays. Open W–Sa 1–8pm, Su noon–4pm, closed M–Tu.

Staff of Life
1266 Soquel Avenue
831.423.8632
staffoflifemarket.com

A Santa Cruz landmark, Sta of Life started in 1969 as a small natural foods bakery and has grown over the years into a full service natural foods supermarket known for its local organic produce, seafood and natural meats as well as an extensive bulk department. Deli items and foods from the hot bar can be enjoyed at the Café del Sol. Open daily 8am–9pm.

Venus Spirits Cocktails & Kitchen
200 High Road
831.600.7376
venusspirits.com

Craft distiller Sean Venus has his new facility fully operational. It includes a lively restaurant bar, the distillery itself and a tasting room. If you want to sample his award-winning gin and other spirits, try the tasting room. For cocktails and hearty plates from chef James Manss, head for the kitchen part of the building and enjoy dishes like crispy Brussels sprouts, mole baby back ribs and elote chile relleno. Open W–F 4–9pm, Sa noon–9pm, Su noon–8pm.

West End Tap & Kitchen
334D Ingalls Street
831.471.8115
westendtap.com

Perfect for any parent looking for a happy hour to satisfy the whole family, adults and kids alike can’t get enough of the duck fat popcorn, fried calamari and  atbread pizzas. A diverse, season-driven menu with o erings like New York strip steak panzanella, seared oyster mushroom “scallops,” a Southern-style seafood boil and a long list of craft beers, ciders and wine options make West End a Westside staple. The outdoor patio is perfect for people watching amidst the bustling Swift Street Courtyard. Open daily noon–9pm.

WATSONVILLE

Beer Mule Bottle Shop + Pour House
45 Aviation Way
831.254.9789
kickassbeer.com

The Beer Mule has 40 brews on tap and hundreds more in the fridge, with an emphasis on local and NorCal beer. Food—courtesy of Butchers & The Mule—includes dishes like four-cheese mac and cheese, barbacoa short rib tacos, grilled tri-tip cheesesteak, hot or not fried chicken sando and Butchers’ jambalaya. Open daily 11am–10pm.

Gizdich Ranch
55 Peckham Road
831.722.1056
gizdich-ranch.com

Visitors from all over love this third-generation, family-run farm business that popularized the “pik-yor-self ” experience just east of Watsonville’s Interlaken neighborhood. Tour the farm, pick fresh apples or berries or watch the action inside the juice-pressing barn. No one leaves hungry if they spend time at the bakery-deli that pleases with its fresh pies, shortcakes and pastries, along with hearty sandwiches and box lunches. This family friendly experience is also a treat for kids, who will enjoy the wide-open spaces and the homemade popsicles. Open daily 9am–5pm.

Staff of Life
906 E. Lake Avenue
831.726.0240
staffoflifemarket.com

Opened last spring, Staff f Life’s second store in Watsonville is its first and only branch. The store is sustainable down to its bones and includes all the natural groceries, organic produce and baked goods you’d find at the Santa Cruz store, along with a juice and smoothie bar, freshly made sushi, a gelato bar, a full deli and a hot bar. Open daily 8am–8pm.