The Penny Ice Creamery

While Santa Cruz is quite a health-conscious community, the city has their fair share of tempting sweet treats. From ice cream and cookies to crepes and even chocolate-covered bacon, the options are plentiful for when that sweet tooth strikes. Tickle your taste buds with our picks for top sweet treats and desserts in Santa Cruz.…

Rita and I made our IPO (initial public outing) to Assembly last week for a late lunch, joined by an inquiring crowd of fellow foodies. In addition to those antler chandeliers (shades of True Detective!), and an inviting front bar, the uncluttered interior is equipped with urban sleek and plenty of light. Banquettes line the…

This is where to find not only the best dishes in Santa Cruz County, but the best restaurants for romance, great views and more.

Thank God for Bittersweet Bistro, where dining doesn’t have to break what’s left of your bank. Recession Crushers are those happy and delicious little daily specials — $6 each—served starting at 3:30pm and all evening long in the bar and on the outdoor patio. How about a quartet of raw oysters with housemade cocktail sauce ($6) and a Stoli vodka martini ($5)? This is good news. Or truffle fries and aioli. Coconut crusted prawns with Asian slaw. Chicken quesadilla with salsa fresca and sour cream. See what I mean?