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What should I order at Santa Cruz Diner?

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Santa Cruz Diner

4.1 (3205 reviews)
You are 1 of 10 skippers at this restaurant
🥇

Burger

Recommended multiple times for being tasty, with reviewers specifically praising versions like the California Burger, Mushroom Burger, Double Bacon Burger, and another very good burger overall.

🥈

Death By Brownie

Called out as a special praise item for dessert, with reviewers highlighting it as especially memorable and delicious.

🥉

Clam Chowder

Mentioned as being 'on point,' suggesting it was a standout dish with strong flavor and quality.

4

Seafood Fettuccine

Recommended by a server and included in a highly positive meal order, with the reviewer saying the food was phenomenal.

5

Chicken Curry With Rice

Also recommended by the server and praised as part of an excellent meal, with quick service and strong overall food quality.

6

Lasagna

Explicitly recommended by a reviewer, who said they could only recommend the lasagna and described the food as delicious and satisfying.

Location details

909 Ocean St, Santa Cruz, California, 95060, US

Open in Google Maps

Hours

Monday 7 AM to 9 PM
Tuesday 7 AM to 9 PM
Wednesday 7 AM to 9 PM
Thursday 7 AM to 9 PM
Friday 7 AM to 10 PM
Saturday 7 AM to 10 PM
Sunday 7 AM to 9 PM

About Santa Cruz Diner

Kid-friendly spot for breakfast all-day, classic American eats & international options such as pho.

Amenities & services

Service options

  • Outdoor seating
  • Delivery
  • Onsite services
  • Takeout
  • Dine-in

Highlights

  • Fast service
  • Great coffee
  • Great dessert
  • Serves local specialty

Popular for

  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
  • Solo dining

Accessibility

  • Wheelchair accessible entrance
  • Wheelchair accessible parking lot
  • Wheelchair accessible restroom
  • Wheelchair accessible seating

Offerings

  • Alcohol
  • Beer
  • Coffee
  • Comfort food
  • Late-night food
  • Organic dishes
  • Quick bite
  • Small plates
  • Vegan options
  • Vegetarian options
  • Wine

Dining options

  • Breakfast
  • Brunch
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
  • Counter service
  • Dessert
  • Seating
  • Table service

Amenities

  • Bar onsite
  • Restroom

Atmosphere

  • Casual
  • Cozy

Crowd

  • College students
  • Family-friendly
  • Groups
  • Tourists

Payments

  • Credit cards
  • Debit cards
  • NFC mobile payments
  • Credit cards

Children

  • Good for kids
  • High chairs
  • Kids' menu

Parking

  • Free parking lot
  • Free street parking
  • Paid parking lot
  • Usually plenty of parking

Pets

  • Dogs allowed outside

Frequently asked questions

What is Santa Cruz Diner known for?

Santa Cruz Diner is especially known for pho, along with classic diner plates like hash browns, clam chowder, and country fried steak. Reviewers also call out the big portions, quick service, and the mix of American and Asian menu options.

What dishes are most recommended at Santa Cruz Diner?

Reviewers most often highlight pho, clam chowder, hash browns, country fried steak, burgers, and desserts like Death by Brownie. Other specific favorites mentioned include spring rolls, seafood fettuccine, chicken curry with rice, lasagna, and seafood spaghetti.

What is the atmosphere like at Santa Cruz Diner?

The vibe is casual and cozy, with fun memorabilia and a classic diner feel that some reviewers describe as entertaining and full of Santa Cruz culture. It suits groups, families, tourists, and solo diners, and several reviews mention friendly staff and a relaxed pace.

Is Santa Cruz Diner good value, and what is the price range?

The price range is $20 to $30, and reviewers often say the portions are huge and the prices are well worth it. Some also mention good value from weekly specials and free refills on soft drinks.

How fast is the service at Santa Cruz Diner?

Service is often described as fast, with food coming out fairly quickly after ordering and seating sometimes happening quickly. Reviewers also note attentive servers who help with menu recommendations, which is useful when the diner is busy.

Is parking available at Santa Cruz Diner?

Yes. Free parking lot, Free street parking, Paid parking lot, Usually plenty of parking is available.

Does Santa Cruz Diner have vegetarian options?

Yes, Santa Cruz Diner offers vegan options.

Is Santa Cruz Diner kid-friendly?

Yes, Santa Cruz Diner is good for kids.

Restaurants like Santa Cruz Diner in Santa Cruz

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