Aptos is as rich in flavor as it is in scenery. Whether you're dreaming of fresh‑baked Mediterranean‑tinged fare or gathering over smoky BBQ and soulful music, here’s a curated collection of our cherished places to eat, each one as inviting as the next.
A Guide to Our Beloved Local Restaurants
Bittersweet Bistro
Generations of locals have found a table here—it’s been one of Santa Cruz County’s most beloved spots for over thirty years. Their American bistro menu carries a whisper of Mediterranean charm, served in cozy indoor seats or a warmly heated patio. The wine list is award-winning, and the dessert menu feels like a hug at the end of the evening.
Mentone
Founded by Michelin‑starred Chef David Kinch, Mentone brings slices of the Italian‑French Riviera to Aptos. Expect thoughtfully sourced, Riviera‑inspired dishes in a casually refined atmosphere. It's earned a Bib Gourmand from the Michelin Guide, a testament to its accessible yet elevated cuisine.
Cavalletta
This warm and inviting spot is all about seasonal Italian fare, most notably their wood‑fired pizzas. Locally sourced ingredients transform simple dishes into rustic‑yet‑refined flavors. Imagine sun‑lit afternoons or evening dinners filled with the scent of charred crust and house‑made pastas.
The Hideout
Set inside a thoughtfully transformed 1930s home, The Hideout blends comfort food with cozy charm. It’s a full bar and restaurant where fresh, simple ingredients are served in a space that feels like part of the neighborhood—and part of your own living room.
Aptos St. BBQ
Smoked meats, cold craft beer, and live blues every night. This is the kind of place where pulled pork is pulpy-tender and tri-tip melts. It’s lively, soulful, and down-to-earth—a gathering place built on flavor, fire, and community.
Betty Burger
Aptos’s answer to a classic burger run—think 100% natural beef, lettuce‑wrapped options, and a casual, come‑as‑you‑are feel. Simple, honest, and satisfying in the best possible way.
Akira Sushi
Aptos’s own sushi haven, bold flavor-forward rolls, fresh nigiri, and an easygoing vibe. With indoor dining, a wrapped-in atmosphere, and a sleek patio, it’s a perfect stop for bright conversations and brighter bites. Happy hour runs daily from 2 to 5 pm, and all day on Mondays.
Manual’s
A local favorite since 1965, Manuel’s is the kind of place where tradition meets flavor. Known for its fresh, authentic Mexican dishes and warm, welcoming atmosphere, it’s a go-to for everything from a casual weeknight dinner to a celebratory night out. The enchiladas are a standout, the salsa is legendary, and the margaritas hit the spot every time.
Marianne’s Ice Cream
Since 1947, Marianne’s has made ice cream the way it should be: handcrafted with care, inventive in flavor, and full of heart. The Aptos location has been delighting sundae-lovers since 2014, offering scoops that are as rich in taste as they are in nostalgia.