What should I order at Ideal Bar & Grill?
Ideal Bar & Grill
Clam Chowder
Multiple reviewers praised the clam chowder, describing it as 'award winning,' 'darn good,' and recommended it especially when served in a bread bowl. It is frequently mentioned as a standout dish.
Sea Bass
Sea bass was highlighted several times for being amazing and fantastic. Reviewers noted great taste and even mentioned custom substitutions involving sea bass, emphasizing its quality and popularity.
Salmon
The salmon was described as 'world famous' and 'spectacular,' with strong enthusiastic recommendations from a reviewer who specifically sought it out.
Steak Salad
The steak salad was mentioned in multiple reviews as very good and was part of large shared meals, praised for both taste and portion size.
Fish & Chips
Fish & chips were enjoyed by different reviewers for being delicious and a good late-night option, often paired with drinks.
Hours
| Monday | 11 AM to 9 PM |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | 11 AM to 9 PM |
| Wednesday | 11 AM to 9 PM |
| Thursday | 11 AM to 9 PM |
| Friday | 11 AM to 9:30 PM |
| Saturday | 9 AM to 9:30 PM |
| Sunday | 9 AM to 9 PM |
About Ideal Bar & Grill
Bustling room & bar with American entrees including steamed clams plus cocktails such as margaritas.
Amenities & services
Service options
- Outdoor seating
- Onsite services
- Takeout
- Dine-in
Highlights
- Fast service
- Great cocktails
- Great coffee
- Karaoke
- Live music
- Live performances
- Serves local specialty
- Sports
Popular for
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
- Wheelchair accessible seating
Offerings
- Alcohol
- Beer
- Cocktails
- Coffee
- Comfort food
- Food
- Food at bar
- Happy hour drinks
- Happy hour food
- Hard liquor
- Healthy options
- Late-night food
- Quick bite
- Small plates
- Vegan options
- Vegetarian options
- Wine
Dining options
- Breakfast
- Brunch
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Dessert
- Seating
- Table service
Amenities
- Bar onsite
- Restroom
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Cozy
- Trendy
Crowd
- College students
- Family-friendly
- Groups
- Tourists
Planning
- Accepts reservations
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
- Credit cards
Children
- Good for kids
- High chairs
- Kids' menu
Parking
- Paid parking lot
- Paid street parking
Pets
- Dogs allowed outside
Frequently asked questions
What is Ideal Bar & Grill known for?
It is best known for clam chowder, which is one of the most mentioned dishes, along with its beach and pier views in Santa Cruz. Reviewers also repeatedly point to the seafood and cocktails, especially the spicy margarita, as reasons people come back.
What dishes are most recommended at Ideal Bar & Grill?
Reviewers most often recommend the clam chowder, calamari, ceviche, and the seafood sampler with beer battered fish filet and coconut shrimp. Other frequently praised items include the burger, prime rib, horseradish salmon, and white fish with spinach and coconut rice.
What is the atmosphere like at Ideal Bar & Grill?
The vibe is casual, cozy, and a little trendy, with indoor seating and outdoor tables overlooking the water and pier. Reviews describe it as a large, comfortable place that works well for groups, families, and solo diners, especially when you want a meal with a view.
Is Ideal Bar & Grill good value, and what is the price range?
The price range is $20 to $50, and reviewers describe it as pricey but worth it for the food, service, and waterfront setting. Some mention lunch and drinks for three costing about $130, while others say the portions are solid and the prices are worth every bite.
When is the best time to visit Ideal Bar & Grill?
Weekdays are a good time if you want a shorter wait, since one review noted no wait during the week but busy weekends. It also has separate lunch and dinner menus, and the outdoor seating is especially popular for enjoying the beach and shoreline views.
Is parking available at Ideal Bar & Grill?
Yes. Paid parking lot, Paid street parking is available.
Does Ideal Bar & Grill have vegetarian options?
Yes, Ideal Bar & Grill offers vegan options.
Is Ideal Bar & Grill kid-friendly?
Yes, Ideal Bar & Grill is good for kids.
Restaurants like Ideal Bar & Grill in Santa Cruz
Why use AI food recommendations?
Skip the Menu
No need to trust waiters or get overwhelmed by the menu
Explained Choices
Provides context and explanations for why each dish is recommended
Find things to do & top restaurants in any city