Surf, Wellness, and Plants
Santa Cruz is one of California’s most genuinely counter-cultural communities, and that DNA is written all over its food scene. From the beachside acai bowls to the intimate plant-based bistros in the hills above town, the vegan dining experience here is both laid-back and deeply impressive.
9 Santa Cruz Spots Worth Visiting
- Dharma’s Restaurant: A Santa Cruz institution with a deeply committed vegetarian and vegan menu rooted in whole-food philosophy.
- Saturn Café: An eccentric, beloved diner that has been serving excellent vegetarian food for decades. The quirky decor is part of the experience.
- Engfer Pizza Works: Known for exceptional plant-based pizzas with high-quality local toppings.
- The Bagelry: A Santa Cruz icon — their vegan cream cheese and loaded bagels are a local staple.
- Verve Coffee Roasters: Outstanding specialty coffee with excellent plant milk options and rotating pastry partnerships.
- Buttercup (Plant Options): Excellent brunch spot with a growing vegan section that locals adore.
- Ally’s Juice Bar: Fresh cold-pressed juices and superfood smoothies for beach-day fuel.
- Zoccoli’s Deli: A family-run deli with remarkable vegetarian sandwich options.
- New Leaf Community Markets: Not a restaurant, but the prepared foods section here rivals many dedicated vegan spots in quality and variety.
