Santa Cruz County Holiday Gift & Dining Guide 2022

Holiday Gift Guide ©2022 is a publication of the Times Publishing Group, Inc. located at 9601 Soquel Drive, Aptos, CA 95003. Entire contents ©2022 by Patrice Edwards. All rights reserved. Reproduction in any form is prohibited without the publisher’s written permission.

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Making a difference this holiday season by Shopping & Dining Local

Remember the joy of going from store to store to find that perfect gift? Somehow many of us have gotten caught up in the supposed convenience of shopping for the lowest price at some mega-store or on their website. But have you ever had to take or send something back that did not fit ... or didn’t work ... or maybe just disappeared and never arrived?

Shopping local is the way to go.

These days, local businesses need the boost from the local community to keep up their mojo going. Our local businesses are looking forward to selling their wares to “their people”! Get up and go to a locally owned and operated store or business that has real live people providing real live service. Local businesses where you can try on or turn on or try out their products and then take them back to return or replace without having to wait forever for your refund.

And, if you prefer to shop on the Internet, more and more of our many of our locally owned and operated businesses have websites that you can purchase goods and services from. This provides the opportunity to deal both online and inperson with people who are your neighbors and live in your community and boost our local economy.

Each day we see and hear the ever-present ads of national chains, but we don’t hear and see the many important values independent locally owned businesses provide us both as an

individual and as a community. New “big box” retailers that replace locally owned businesses often create economic costs exceeding benefits: the loss of existing jobs and the cost of an increased infrastructure being the top two.

When asked to name our favorite restaurant, cafe, or shop, we almost always cite a unique local business. We say we embrace the idea of distinctive businesses with local character, but then often forget their survival depends on our patronage so let’s so up for them.

Those who raise funds for local non-profits can tell you that locally owned businesses provide most of their support. Not all local businesses are perfect, and “big box” retailers are not bad, but the overall impact is obvious: local businesses play a vital role in our community that corporate chains seldom do.

Make a difference this holiday season, Shop, Dine and Experience all Santa Cruz County has to offer by staying Local! %

Stocking Stuffers Bringing Smiles and Helping Ease Strained Holiday Budgets

No one seems exactly certain when the tradition of hanging stockings at the holidays actually began. But by 1822, Clement Clark Moore’s famous poem “A Visit from St. Nicholas” (better known as “The Night Before Christmas”) had been published. Today there are few children who don’t recognize the words, “The stockings were hung by the chimney with care in hopes that St. Nicholas soon would be there.”

Despite its popularity, the Christmas stocking is often overlooked during the hustle and bustle of holiday shopping. Hence, stocking stuffers are usually purchased last. Fortunately, there are many gift ideas that are sure to please without draining an already strained budget. Some of the more popular stuffers to

Traditional goodies. All kids love sweets. So why not include their favorite treats!

Clothes/accessories. Colorful and fun, still useful, items such as gloves, slippers, scarves, socks and belts make great stocking stuffers.

School supplies. Whether learning from home or learning from school, Christmas is a great time to stock up on fun supplies for school, such as gel pens in cool neon colors, markers and even homework helpers.

Mini games or card games. Sized just right, these gifts are great for amusing the kids and interacting with family during the Holidays. and Arts and Crafts. Gifts can also enhance a child’s existing interest in something such as sports, art or music.

Gift cards or certificates. Kids today like the freedom to choose their own gifts. A gift card to the movies, favorite retail store, or favorite restaurant allows kids to feel all grown-up.

Traditional toys. Regardless of their age, few kids can resist the fun of some of some of the old standbys, like Silly Putty, Jacks or a Slinky.

All ages love stocking stuffers, there are many mini-gifts out there for the teenager and above. Make up, silly socks, hair products, etc.

To enhance the excitement, wrap the stocking stuffers. Pack the stocking full, and don’t forget to let one or two items stick out from the top to tempt curious eyes, and enjoy your holidays with friends and family! %

Holiday Gift Giving Ideas

APTOS VILLAGE SQUARE

7960 Soquel Drive, Aptos • www.aptosvillagesquare.com

Aptos Village Square is a host to several Aptos Favorites – all of which are family owned. The Shopping Center is a place where everyone can find something, practical, healthy, fun, and interesting! Businesses include Jansen Music, The UPS Store, Showtime Pizza, Uncle Kwok’s, Workspace, Quality Water, Fleet Feet, Hot Source Yoga, Crossfit Aptos, Studio E Dance, Five Streams Kitchen, Caledonia Salon, Coastal Oak Interiors, and Shanne Carvallho. Conveniently located in the heart of Aptos – take the State Park Drive exit off Hwy 1 heading south. Come visit us!

BAY PHOTO LAB

920 Disc Drive, Scotts Valley • 800.435.6686 • www.bayphoto.com

Bay Photo Lab has a long history of innovative photographic printing and photo finishing services. Located in the coastal redwoods outside of Santa Cruz, California, we have been providing Professional Photographers with the highest quality printing and customer service for over 40 years. We are committed to providing personal attention and a wide range of products. We pride ourselves on our quality printing and fast delivery. Bring your images to Bay Photo and join the many professional photographers who depend on us for outstanding quality, excellent value, and exceptional customer service.

BUBBLE LOUNGE

30 Rancho Del Mar, Aptos • 831.708.4100 • www.bubbleloungesc.com Bubble Lounge Boutique is every woman’s dream store located in Aptos! Our mermaid tribe takes great pride in excellent customer service. We have been in business since 2006 serving our local community with the best of the best curated just for you. We specialize in activewear, yogawear, lounge wear, and custom cut couture fitness as well as natural beauty and cosmetics products. Our brand menu includes Goddesswear, Beyond Yoga, Mika, Free People, Spiritual Gangster, Glyder Apparel, and many more. Come in and check it out!

CAROLINE’S NON-PROFIT THRIFT SHOP 8047 Soquel Drive, Aptos • 831.662.0327 • christina@carolinesnonprofit.org

Christy Licker opened Caroline’s Non Profit Thrift Shop in June of 2010, just three years after the death of her daughter, Caroline, who passed away at the age of 16. Her hope was to honor the life of Caroline by donating money to local nonprofits with programs/services for children and their families with the goal of easing the fundraising burden for these non-profits. Our volunteers commit to regularly scheduled shifts, with some even creating handmade items for Caroline’s. Caroline’s is 100% volunteer powered!

CORRALITOS FEED

2895 B Freedom Blvd, Corralitos • 831.722.7884 • www.corralitosfeed.com 1486 Freedom Blvd, Watsonville • 831.728.2244 • www.corralitosfeed.com At Corralitos Feed and Pet Supplies we specialize in pet and livestock nutrition. We carry everything you need to keep your pet healthy and happy. Visit our Country Store in Corralitos for boots as well as horse supplies including straw, hay, and alfalfa. We also carry a full line of pet foods and products. Visit our city store in Watsonville for all your pet needs. We carry live animals including birds, reptiles, rabbits, chickens, and fish, along with the full line of products and food for these pets.

Holiday Gift Giving Ideas

FATIMA’S FINE JEWELRY

307 Main St. Ste. 1011, Watsonville • 831.768.1887 • www.fatimasfinejewelry.com

Since our family owned and operated jewelry store first opened in 1995, our mission has always been to provide exceptional service as we help you find jewelry that you will fall in love with each time you put it on. From engagement rings to our custom jewelry, every piece in our showroom is handpicked for its timeless beauty and artful design. We also offer jewelry repair, as well as in-house financing and layaway options so there’s nothing keeping you from completing your collection with that perfect piece.

INTERIOR VISION FLOORING & DESIGN

2800 Daubenbiss Ave, Soquel • 831.219.4484 • www.interiorvision.biz We can help you with everything from the simple problem to complex installations including products for radiant heat, patterns, and borders. I carry both pre-finished and sand and finish hardwoods including bamboo and exotic woods, laminates such as Mannington, Natural Linoleum, all major brands of carpet, wool, sisal, cork, custom and ready made area rugs, porcelain tile and Hunter Douglas Allustra and running line window shades and shutters. Let me help with some of the most confusing decisions you will ever have to make.

Merry Christmas!

LENZ ARTS

142 River St., Santa Cruz • 831.423.1935 • www.lenzarts.com

Serving you for over 50 years, Lenz Arts offers the largest selection of fine art supplies and the oldest custom frame shop on the Central Coast. Described as “one of the last real art stores on the West Coast,” people drive for hours to take advantage of our comprehensive stock and knowledge. From the finger-painting toddler to the professional gallery artist, we’ve got you covered! We are open for in-store shopping! Mon-Sat, 10am-6pm. Curbside service is still available.

MR. Z’S CREPES & TEAS 7518 Soquel Dr., Aptos • 831.661.5167 45 Aviation Way #2, Watsonville • 831.228.1588 • www.mrzsteas.com

Mr. Z’s Crêpes & Teas is a local, family-owned casual cafe offering Boba Teas, Crêpes, and Açaí bowls. We source premium ingredients from our local partners to bring you quality, flavorful menu options. Our teas are brewed daily, berries and produce are supplied by local Watsonville farms, and crepes are made fresh to order! Whether you’re stopping by for your lunch, mid-afternoon snack, or dinner, we’ve got you covered! Gluten and dairy-free options are available.

O’NEILL SURF SHOPS

105 Post Office Dr., Aptos 831.708.2220 • 1115 41st Ave, Capitola 831.475.4151 400 Beach St., Santa Cruz 831.459.9230 • 110 Cooper St #100d, Santa Cruz 831.469.4377 • us.oneill.com

O’Neill Surf Shop is fully stocked with all your holiday goodies. We have a huge selection of O’Neill Wetsuits for the whole family. Skateboards, boogie boards, leashes, backpacks, and all your favorite surf accessories. Surfboards for the beginner to the advanced, that perfect holiday gift will bring hours of joy! Stop by all our locations this Holiday Season for all your surfing needs and let our friendly staff stoke you out. Hours may vary at each location.

OUTSIDE IN 7568 Soquel Dr, Aptos • 831.684.0178 • www.oihome.com Outside In is the premier Aptos destination for gifts, home decor, jewelry, and luxury clothing. We strive to support local artisans, businesses, and most importantly, we take enormous pride in supporting our customers and the local community. Our children’s store, Imagitorium, is located right next door to the main store, specializing in educational toys, books, and clothes. Come in and meet our friendly staff and they can help you find that special something you are looking for. Gift registries, corporate gifting and gift certificates are available.

Holiday Gift Giving Ideas

PET PALS DISCOUNT PET FOOD AND SUPPLIES

3660 Soquel Dr, Soquel • 831.464.8775 • www.petpals.com

Pet Pals has been family owned since 1987. We provide brand name pet food and supplies at the lowest discount prices at our 17,000 square foot warehouse store. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff is ready to help you and your pet find exactly what you need. We take pride in our local roots and give back to the Santa Cruz County pet community whenever possible. Please reach out if your nonprofit or pet organization would like to connect with the Pet Pals team.

ROOSTERS

28 Rancho Del Mar • Aptos, CA 95003 • 831.612.6938 • www.roostersmgc.com

At Roosters Men’s Grooming Center, we provide authentic barbering services designed with men in mind. Whether you come in for the Roosters Club Cut or Signature 7-Step Facial Shave, you can be confident you will leave looking and feeling your best. Give the gift of Roosters to the gentlemen in your life so they can experience the comforts of an old-school barber shop with grooming techniques for the modern man. Our distinctive services come with a 100% satisfaction guarantee.

SOLEMATE

7542 Soquel Drive, Aptos • 831.688.6500 • sales@solemateaptos.com

Solemate is located in the heart of Aptos in Aptos Center. We offer a great selection of European shoes, clothing, and accessories. Whatever your need we can dress you from head to toe. From casual everyday wear to dressy events, we have what you are looking for! Open Tuesday – Sunday 11-5. Come see us!

SUPER SILVER 1301 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz 831.460.9696 • 1855 41st Ave., Capitola Mall 831.477.1932 214 Capitola Ave., Capitola Village 831.462.9696 • 1100 Second St., Old Town Sacramento 916.443.2801 • www.supersilver.com Citrine is a beautiful fall color stone and is full of high positivity and optimism energy, and projects a sense of balance. Visit Super Silver to see our huge selection of Citrine jewelry. We have multiple locations, and an ever-expanding selection of .925 silver. Give the gift of choice with a Super Silver gift card. Follow us on Facebook, Pinterest, and Instagram!

WONDERLAND TOYS

19 Rancho Del Mar, Aptos • 831.316.7261 • www.wonderlandsantacruz.com

We are a local, women-owned and family-owned small business serving our community. Come in and check out our quality specialty and educational toys, classroom resources, books, games, puzzles, and more. We have a wide selection of gifts for the holidays. Advent Calendars of all types are going fast! Shop early for best selection! We also offer complimentary gift wrap of up to three items.

REJUVENATE MEDI-SPA AND WELLNESS

1595 38TH Ave., Capitola • 831.226.2108 • www.rejuvenatemedi-spa.com Rejuvenate is a medical spa offering the best-in-class service for Botox, Filler, Facials, and RF Micro-Needling to get you looking your best this holiday season and throughout the year! We offer gift certificates in multiple denominations so that you can give the gift of beauty and wellness to your friends and family this holiday season.

Traditional Holiday Dishes From Around the World

IRELAND – Plum Pudding

In Ireland, Christmas pudding, traditionally known as ‘plum pudding’, is a rich, moist fruitcake that is made every Christmas (hence the name). The recipe calls for soaking in brandy. As a result, Christmas pudding is flammable and traditionally set alight when serving. Though time consuming, it is worth the time when you present this spectacular dessert to your guests!

ITALY – Panettone

One of the favorites at Christmas for desserts in Italy of are Pandoro and Panettone. Pandoro is a traditional Italian sweet bread, most popular around Christmas and New Year. It is often served dusted with vanilla-scented icing. Panettone an Italian yeastleavened bread, usually made with raisins, candied fruit peels, almonds, and brandy. Both are delicious!

ISRAEL – Latkes

Since the Middle Ages, latkes – in some form or another – have been an important part of Hanukkah tradition. Latkes are fried potato pancakes are cooked in oil. This recognizes that the Second Temple kept the Menorah burning with oil for eight days. Other dishes enjoyed as a part of this tradition include fried donuts and fritters. Hanukkah gelt, small chocolate coins, are given to children by relatives.

MEXICO – Tamales

Tamales are a tasty package of meats, cheeses, or vegetables in a corn-based shell all wrapped up in a corn husk and steamed. They are eaten all year, but during the holiday season, it is traditional for many families to make tamales. Most have a have a cherished tamale filling recipe, prepared by grandmothers and passed down through the generations.

SWEDEN – Julbord

Sweden celebrates Christmas dinner smörgåsbord-style. This is called the julbord, and it is full of traditional dishes, including pickled herring, cured salmon and meatballs, plus additional items such as bread, liver pâté, red beet salad, cheese, and cabbage. This food on Christmas Day is supposed to be reminiscent of the celebration that came after a period of fasting from the beginning of Advent until midnight on Christmas Eve.

LITHUANIA – Pudding

Kucios, the traditional Lithuanian Christmas dinner, is held on December 24th every year. No meat, dairy, or hot food are a part of this meal. Instead, it includes fish, breads, and vegetables. Some of the items you might see on the menu are herring served in a tomato, mushroom or onion-based sauce, smoked eel, vegetables such as potatoes, sauerkraut, and bread or cranberry pudding.

SANTA CRUZ COUNTY CHARITABLE ORGANIZATIONS

Bringing Hope to People in Our Community

It’s amazing to see how many organizations and people are involved in helping others in our county. Whether it’s kids or seniors, the homeless, sick or helpless, there are charitable organizations that can assist in making this holiday season one of hope for those in need. You can take part in this effort by volunteering or giving your donations to be part of bringing joy to others less fortunate.

ADVOCACY INC.

5274 Scotts Valley Drive, Suite 203, Scotts Valley 831.429.1913 www.advocacy-inc.org

Advocacy, Inc. is an independent non-profit agency serving Santa Cruz and San Benito counties for over 40 years. Our agency is comprised of the Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program and the Patients’ Rights Advocate Program. We act as a voice for those patients/residents who are unable to speak for themselves because of prejudice, fear and/or disability, Train and consult with medical and mental health professionals on patients’/residents’ rights, quality of care, treatment and quality of life issues.

ALZHEIMER’S ASSOCIATION – SANTA CRUZ CHAPTER

550 Water Street, Suite L-2, Santa Cruz 831.647.9890 www.alz.org

The Santa Cruz Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association offers countywide services for families coping with

Alzheimer’s disease. These include Support groups, an informational library, a newsletter, and a wanderer’s identification program. Our 24/7 Helpline continues to be fully operational at this time. Information is available to help with emergency placement and local resources, wandering issues, communication tips, behaviors and overall basic information. 800.272.3900.

AMERICAN RED CROSS -– CENTRAL COAST CHAPTER

2960 Soquel Avenue, Santa Cruz 800.733.2767 www.redcross.org

The Central Coast Chapter serves more than 770,000 people across the counties of Monterey, San Benito, and Santa Cruz. From the seascapes of Monterey Bay to the beaches of Santa Cruz, the Central Coast Chapter inhabits an area of California renowned for its natural beauty. A dedicated team of staff and volunteers works with community partners, local government, and donors to prepare for, respond to, and recover from disasters.

Get your disaster preparedness kits and register for CPR and First Aid classes at www.redcross.org.

APTOS SPORTS FOUNDATION

P.O. Box 2405, Aptos 831.600.4345 aptossportsfoundation@gmail.com www.aptossportsfoundation.com

The Aptos Sports Foundation is a non-profit organization that was created over 30 years ago for the purpose of improving the sports facilities and programs at Aptos High School. Our past projects include: lights at the football field and lights on the pool, the all- weather track, allpurpose football field, a complete rebuild of the baseball facility, and donations to many other small projects. We have bought whistles, lane lines, wrestling mats, and uniforms. The long-term goal is to create top quality athletic programs “For Our Kids” in Aptos that will rival the best sports programs in Northern California, public or private.

BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS OF SANTA CRUZ COUNTY

1500 41st Avenue, Suite 250, Capitola 831.464.8691 www.santacruzmentor.org

For over 27 years we have served youth by creating mentoring relationships between children and carefully screened adult volunteers who provide guidance, friendship, and appropriate role modeling. We partner with parents/guardians, volunteers and others in the community and hold ourselves accountable for each child in our program achieving higher aspirations, greater confidence, and better relationships, avoidance of risky behaviors, and educational success.

CASA Court Appointed Special Advocates for Children 813 Freedom Boulevard, Watsonville 831.761.2956 www.casaofsantacruz.org

Court Appointed Special Advocates are community volunteers who work one-on-one with children and youth in the foster care system. CASA of Santa Cruz County recruits, screens, trains, matches, and supervises these volunteer Advocates to be the voice of our community’s youth in the Dependency Court System. Advocates get to know their child’s situation and needs, help caregivers access resources to meet those needs, and advocate for the child’s best interests in Court, community, and school settings.

CENTRAL COAST CENTER FOR INDEPENDENT LIVING 1350 41st Avenue, #101, Capitola 831.462.8720 www.cccil.org

“Many people with disabilities are excluded from full

participation in society. CCCIL is an advocacy and information center organized by and for people with disabilities, serving Santa Cruz, Monterey, and San Benito Counties. Our purpose is to make our communities more accessible, and to empower people with disabilities with information and skills to live fulfilling lives in our communities.” CCCIL’s services include housing assistance, personal assistance services, peer support, independent living skills training and systems advocacy.

COMMUNITY BRIDGES 519 Main Street, Watsonville 831.688.8840 www.communitybridges.org

Since 1977, Community Bridges has been a catalyst for a brighter future by providing basic resources for the people of Santa Cruz County. Our family of ten vital programs across 20 different sites serves thousands of local children, families, and seniors each year. Our programs give community members access to transportation, healthy food, health care, and senior daycare. We offer early education, grade school tutoring, and classes in breastfeeding, parenting, and literacy. These and other services are provided without charge, or at very low cost.

EASTERSEALS OF CENTRAL CALIFORNIA 9010 Soquel Drive, Aptos 831.684.2166 www.easterseals.com

Easterseals Central California (ESCC) has been helping individuals with disabilities and special needs, and their families, live better lives since 1947. From child development centers to autism services and job training for people with disabilities, Easterseals offers a variety of services to help people with disabilities address life’s challenges and achieve personal goals.

FAMILIES IN TRANSITION OF SANTA CRUZ COUNTY 406 Main Street, #326, Watsonville 831.728.9791 wwwfitsantacruz.org

Since 1992 Families in Transition has been serving members of Santa Cruz County by providing temporary rental assistance and case management to families who are homeless or at imminent risk of becoming homeless. Our case managers work closely with program participants to identify barriers to housing and come up with individualized housing stability plans to ensure client success.

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SANTA CRUZ COUNTY

CHARITABLE ORGANIZATIONS

Bringing Hope to People in Our Community

FAMILY SERVICE AGENCY OF THE CENTRAL COAST

104 Walnut Avenue, Ste 208, Santa Cruz 831.423.9444 www.fsa-cc.org

We believe in the power and potential of people of all ages and backgrounds to discover their own creative solutions. Our professional staff and volunteers provide the resources, support, and counseling services essential to healthy families and communities. We welcome people of diverse cultures, genders, sexual orientations, ages, faiths, socio-economic backgrounds, and abilities as clients, volunteers, and staff members.

HABITAT FOR HUMANITY

108 Magnolia Street, Santa Cruz 831.469.4663 www.habitatsc.org

Habitat for Humanity Santa Cruz County is an independent locally operated and funded affiliate of Habitat for Humanity International. Our mission is to build decent, affordable homes and provide home ownership opportunities to qualified families who live and work in Santa Cruz County. Families purchase our homes with a down payment, sweat equity, and a 0% interest monthly mortgage. Please visit our Restore at 555 Main St. in Watsonville! We accept donations of, and then resell, new and used building materials, furniture, hardware, tools, and appliances at a fraction of the normal retail price.

HOSPICE OF SANTA CRUZ COUNTY

940 Disc Drive, Scotts Valley 831.430.3000 www.hospicesantacruz.org

Hospice of Santa Cruz County provides expert medical care, emotional and spiritual support to patients and families in our community so that the final months of life can be spent at home – in comfort and with dignity. The H.U.G. (Healthy Understanding of Grief) program helps hundreds of children each year sort through their feelings of grief and loss in a healthy manner. Clients & families are helped in creating a network of support and are offered assurance and education regarding end-of-life planning.

JACOB’S HEART CHILDREN’S CANCER SUPPORT SERVICES

680 West Beach Street, Watsonville 831.724.9100 www.jacobsheart.org

Since 1998, we have served more than 600 children and 2,500 of their family members who have heard the devastating words, “Your child has cancer.” Through the years we have celebrated remission for hundreds of children and have grieved with families at the loss of a precious child. Through it all, we remain steadfast in our mission; our reason for existence is an unwavering dedication to providing support to parents and families of children with cancer and other life-threatening illnesses in Monterey, Santa Cruz, San Benito and South Santa Clara Counties.

PAJARO VALLEY SHELTER SERVICES 115 Brennan Street, Watsonville 831.728.5649 www.pvshelter.org

Pajaro Valley Shelter Services provides families with a path to stable, self-sufficient futures through shortand longer-term housing and supportive services. We envision a community where families have safe, secure, and stable housing with sufficient resources and space to plan for their futures and pursue happiness. Pajaro Valley Shelter Services has an emergency shelter and sixteen units of transitional housing where families can stay up to two years.

THE PREGNANT MARE RESCUE FOUNDATION

P.O. Box 962, Aptos 408.540.8568 www.PregnantMareRescue.org

The Pregnant Mare Rescue is a temporary horse sanctuary serving the communities of Santa Cruz and Monterey Counties. We provide a safe haven for unwanted mares to have their babies, and a place for orphaned foals to grow. People from every walk of life benefit from the various programs offered at our ranch. We have created an environment that supports and encourages the horse-human connection.

SECOND HARVEST FOOD BANK OF SANTA CRUZ & SAN BENITO

800 Ohlone Parkway, Watsonville 831.722.7110 www.thefoodbank.org

Second Harvest Food Bank provides food and necessities to people in need throughout our community. It serves 60,000 working poor families, seniors, and children each month. Second Harvest provides food to 180 programs and agencies operating pantries, shelters, soup kitchens, group homes, childcare, rehabilitation programs and more. Call 662-0991 from 9:00am to 4:00pm, Monday – Friday, if you or someone you know needs food.

SPECIAL PARENTS INFORMATION NETWORK (S.P.I.N)

740 Front Street, #175, Santa Cruz 831.423.7713 www.spinsc.org

Parents of children with special needs may feel isolated and overwhelmed with the medical, emotional, financial, educational, and social issues they face as they raise their child. SPIN is a non-profit parent-to-parent support and information network serving parents, guardians, and families in Santa Cruz and San Benito Counties who have a child or children with special needs of any age.

TEEN KITCHEN PROJECT 2880 Research Park Drive, Soquel 831.316.4540 www.teenkitchenproject.org A nonprofit organization that brings young people into the kitchen to learn to cook delicious and nourishing food. Teen Kitchen Project offers our delicious, locally sourced and organic food philosophy to events from parties and business meetings, to fund-raising events for fellow nonprofits like the United Way of Santa Cruz County, PEO Sisterhood, and Team G Childhood Cancer Foundation.

THE COMMUNITY FOUNDATION

7807 Soquel Drive, Aptos 831.662.2000 www.cfscc.com

The Community Foundation is a tax-exempt public charity serving people who share a common interest to improve the quality of life in Santa Cruz County, and beyond, through philanthropy. Founded in 1982, we provide individuals, families, and businesses with ways to make giving simple, powerful, and personal. We offer professional advisor resources and tools to help you meet your clients’ charitable goals.

THE VOLUNTEER CENTER 1740 17th Avenue, Santa Cruz 831.427.5070 www.scvolunteercenter.org

The Volunteer Center was founded in 1967 to address the pressing needs of our local community through volunteer service. We offer 22 programs that engage young people, families, seniors, working professionals, and people with disabilities in meaningful service. We have the capability of connecting people with volunteer opportunities on the web, by phone, or at one of our Centers.

VALLEY CHURCHES UNITED MISSIONS

9400 Highway 9, Ben Lomond 831.336.8258 www.vcum.org

Over the past 30 years, Valley Churches United Missions has continued to grow and serve an ever-increasing number of clients. We are a volunteer-powered, donorsupported nonprofit agency providing assistance to lowincome residents in need. We serve San Lorenzo Valley, Scotts Valley, and Bonny Doon. VCUM remains true to its original mission of neighbors helping neighbors. Send cash donations to Valley Churches United Missions, P.O. Box 367, Ben Lomond, CA 95005. %

Put a plant-based Twist on Holiday Baking

Flavorful desserts are a staple of the holidays and the exciting, appetizing allure of new recipes can help elevate seasonal gatherings and create sweet memories. With near-endless options for celebrating the season, putting a plant-based twist on traditional recipes offers everyone the opportunity to indulge with decadent treats.

In seasonal sweets like Brulee Pumpkin Pie and NoBake Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheesecake, an option like Country Crock Plant Cream can be used as a dairyfree substitute for heavy whipping cream. With 29% less saturated fat than dairy heavy whipping cream, it’s an easy 1:1 swap and is also soy-free, certified plant-based and 100% vegan, making it ideal to have on hand during holiday baking season.

Brulee Pumpkin Pie

Prep time: 45 minutes

Cook time: 1 hour

Servings: 8

Pie Crust:

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon sugar

1/4 teaspoon salt

8 tablespoons Country Crock Plant Butter, cold and cut into cubes

2 tablespoons chilled vegetable shortening, cut into pieces

4 tablespoons ice water

Pumpkin Filling:

1/2 cup maple syrup

1 tablespoon vanilla

1 can (15 ounces) pumpkin puree

1/4 cup coconut cream

1 cup Country Crock Plant Cream

1 cup brown sugar

1 teaspoon cinnamon

1 teaspoon ginger

1 teaspoon nutmeg

1/8 teaspoon ground clove

1/2 teaspoon salt

3 tablespoons cornstarch

3 tablespoons white granulated sugar

Whipped Topping:

2 cups chilled

1/4 cup powdered sugar

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Walkl through dates Dec 2nd and 3rd

To make pie crust: Preheat oven to 350 F.

In bowl of food processor, add flour, sugar and salt; pulse to combine. Add cold plant butter and shortening. Process about 10 seconds until it looks like coarse meal.

With food processor running, add ice water. Process until mixture clumps together.

On lightly floured surface, roll dough into 14-inch circle. Transfer to 9-inch pie dish. Lift edges and allow dough to drape into dish. Trim, leaving 1-inch overhang. Fold excess dough under and crimp edges.

To make pumpkin filling: In medium saucepan over medium heat, add syrup and vanilla; warm about 2 minutes then remove from heat and set aside.

In large bowl, combine syrup mixture, pumpkin, coconut cream, plant cream, brown sugar, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, clove, salt and cornstarch; blend with hand mixer until smooth. Pour mixture into pie crust. Bake 1 hour. If crust starts to burn, cover edges with aluminum foil. The middle will still be jiggly.

Cool at room temperature 30 minutes then cover and transfer to refrigerator to chill at least 5 hours or overnight. Before serving, sprinkle pie with white sugar and, using kitchen torch, brelee until sugar is melted and dark brown.

To make whipped topping: Using electric hand mixer or stand mixer, whisk plant cream, powdered sugar and vanilla on high until mixture thickens and stiff peaks form.

Slice and serve with whipped topping.

No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheesecake

Prep time: 5-10 minutes Cook time: 5 minutes Total time: 6-7 hours Servings: 8 Country Crock Plant Butter, for greasing.

Crust:

1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs 1/2 cup melted

Filling:

2 packages (8 ounces each) dairy-free cream cheese, at room temperature

1 cup peanut butter

1 tablespoon vanilla extract

1/2 cup Country Crock Plant Cream 1 cup powdered sugar

Chocolate Ganache: 1 stick cubed

1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips Grease 9-inch pie dish with plant butter; set aside.

To make crust: In medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and melted plant butter; mix thoroughly. Add crust to greased pie dish and press firmly to bottom and sides; refrigerate.

To make filling: In bowl of electric mixer, beat cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add powdered sugar; beat until fully incorporated. Add peanut butter, vanilla extract and plant cream; beat until smooth and creamy.Pour filling into prepared crust and refrigerate 5-6 hours or overnight.

To make chocolate ganache: In pan over medium heat, add plant butter cubes and chocolate; stir continuously.Spread chocolate ganache evenly on top of chilled cheesecake. Refrigerate at least 1 hour before slicing and serving. Family Features %

Traditional Hanukkah

Most Jewish Americans know of all Hanukkah traditions such as lighting the menorah each night; playing dreidel games; eating foods cooked in oil; and giving gifts. However, many wonder if this last tradition is really a Jewish tradition, or whether Hanukkah presents just came about in reaction to Christmas. The giving of gifts is not historically a part of Hanukkah. In fact, gift-giving on Hanukkah is not unlike gift-giving on Christmas – it has little, if anything, to do with the religious requirements of the celebration. But when the holiday starts on the evening of Dec. 18 this year many Jewish Americans will be focused on getting gifts as they do every year.

The trend of exchanging Hanukkah gifts really took off in the 1950s. At this time, Jewish child psychologists as well as rabbis started promoting gifts as a way to make postHolocaust Jewish kids happy to be Jewish, rather than sad about missing out on Christmas. These days, some families celebrate both holidays!

Today, some families prefer to give Hanukkah money rather than gifts because they view Gelt (money and/or chocolate coins) as a more authentically Jewish tradition. One way is to give one dollar per candle, not counting the shamash (the “helper” candle used to light the other ones). On the first night the children receive one dollar; second night, two, etc. The total is $36 for eight nights. Children these days are prone to expect more, but if this is a tradition then during Hanukkah most are thrilled to carry it on.

Gelt can also refer to chocolate coins given to Jewish children on the festival of Hanukkah. They are usually wrapped in gold foil, and their history can be traced back to the decision of the Hasmoneans to mint their own nation’s coins after their military victory over the Greek Syrians. Gelt is often used to gamble with in the game of dreidel.

One suggestion in lieu of gifts is families can light candles to honor justice or peace or talk about what brings light into one’s life or what places in this world need more light. Even with gift giving, family holiday celebrations can still aim to foster social consciousness. Some kids are encouraged to look through their toys and determine what they no longer play with and can, thus, donate. Charitable donations are one of the best Chanukah gifts to give to other family and friends. Be sure to send cards (perhaps made by your children) with information about the organization, so recipients will know that your gift was thoughtful and made with them in mind.

Food is always loved by all! One idea is to gift a box of designer donuts to symbolize sufganiyah, a jelly-filled doughnut traditionally eaten during Hanukkah in Israel. Gifting gourmet food items like chocolate, fancy jams and spreads, and special cooking oils (since oil is so important to this holiday). You can get different samples of all and create a small gift basket.

There’s no need to go overboard with your gifts. Historically speaking, lavish gift giving isn’t a Hanukkah tradition, so don’t feel pressured to spend a lot of money. Gifts like books, clothes, gift certificates, and jewelry, are always appropriate, especially if they are personal and thoughtful.

Happy Hanukkah and happy gift-giving! %

As 2022 comes to a close, we invite you to join us as we pause, reflect, and renew a commitment to creating a better tomorrow for everyone.

Every dollar counts as we look for ways to make a difference in patient care at Dominican Hospital.

Make a gift in honor of a care provider who provided compassionate care to you and each patient served at Dominican Hospital

We are humbled and reminded of all that is good by you and fellow donors who go out of their way to lend a helping hand to someone in need. Your 100 percent tax-deductible gift will support our staff during this time of need.

Wishing 2023 is full of joy and health, Dominican Hospital Foundation

Holiday Calendar

HOLIDAY LIGHTS

November 25 – December 25 • 5:30pm – 9:00pm

SC County Fairgrounds

2601 E. Lake Avenue, Watsonville

The Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds Foundation and the Agricultural History Project presents HOLIDAY LIGHTS 2022 at the Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds. This is over a ½ mile drive-through experience at the Fairgrounds of spectacular lighted Holiday displays all around you. Giant Christmas trees twinkling with lights – Santa – reindeer – snowmen – lighted tunnels, and many more magical moments. Stay in your warm car and drive through this Holiday Experience. Visit fairgrounds-foundation.org/ holiday-lights/ for more information.

SANTA CRUZ HOLIDAY TRAIN

November 25-26, December 3-4, 12-13, 17-23

Chanukah Train: Monday, December 26th

This seasonal tradition returns to Santa Cruz with the Santa Cruz Holiday Lights Train. The trains depart and return in front of Neptune’s Kingdom on the Boardwalk of Santa Cruz at 5:00pm, 6:30, and 8:00pm for a 60-minute roundtrip excursion. We’ll share in Chanukah traditions and ride the train through the streets of Santa Cruz listening to Chanukah stories, playing dreidel, and enjoying kosher refreshments provided by Chabad by the Sea. Visit www. roaringcamp.com for tickets and more information.

WEST CLIFF HOLIDAY MARKET

Friday, November 25-27, 10am 4pm Lighthouse Point, 700 W Cliff Dr, Santa Cruz

Come enjoy our holiday outdoor market with unique artisans and food trucks while taking in the spectacular view of the ocean. This one-of-a-kind market will be held in two parking lots along West Cliff Drive in Santa Cruz. The market will feature hand crafted gifts and a chance to do some holiday shopping. There will also be LIVE MUSIC and admission is FREE! Come on down and get your free gift! See you on the cliffs!

ROARING CAMP RAILROADS: HOLIDAY TREE WALK

November 25-27, December 3-4, 10-11, 17-18

Get in the holiday spirit by bringing the family to ride the Redwood Forest Steam Train through the wintry redwoods to Bear Mountain. Sip hot cocoa while greeting Santa Claus. In town, enjoy winter themed activities. Visit www. roaringcamp.com for more information.

SANTA CRUZ BEACH BOARDWALK: WINTER WONDERLAND

November 26 January 2

Get in the holiday spirit – celebrate the season at the beach! Activities Include: Selection of Boardwalk Rides, Games, and Arcades, Festive Holiday Decorations and Lights (Including a 3-story tall Christmas tree!), Photos with Santa, Delicious Boardwalk Treats, Boardwalk Racers: Pedal Karts in the Main Plaza, Fire Pit Rentals & Holiday S’Mores, Holiday Fun Package (includes MyBoardwalk Card and a photo with Santa), and Holiday Shopping, Hours and Dates: 12pm – 5pm: November 26 – 28 (Friday – Sunday); December 4 – 19 (Saturday & Sunday); December 20 – 24 (Monday – Thursday); December 26 – January 2 (Sunday – Sunday)

SURFIN’ SANTA VISITS CAPITOLA

November 26, 12pm 3pm

Join us in welcoming Surfin’ Santa to the shores of Capitola Beach! Santa will be riding the waves via Outrigger canoe, rain or shine, for his annual visit to Capitola Village, arriving at 12pm to visit with all the kids until 3pm. Once toweled off, he’ll settle in his beach chair for a nice, long visit. Be sure to bring your camera to capture Santa’s wave riding arrival, and your little ones special visit with Santa. It makes a great holiday photo!

HERITAGE GIFT FAIR

December 2 & 3 Noon – 9pm

SC County Fairgrounds 2601 E. Lake Avenue, Watsonville

The Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds Foundation invites you to the 45th Annual Heritage Holiday Craft & Gift

Fair. The Harvest, Crosetti, and Fine Art buildings will once again be filled with great handmade crafts and gift ideas for this holiday. On both days this year we will team with Holiday Lights and at 5pm when the lights come alive there will be a walk through! Enjoy both events for the same admission price. Admission is $6.00 per person, Children 6 and Under Free!

HOLIDAY PARADE

Saturday, December 3, 1am 12pm

Downtown Santa Cruz

The traditional holiday parade is the official kickoff for the winter holidays celebration. You can be sure to expect the whole community to show up and have a great time – and of course, at the end of the parade, sitting in an antique fire truck, the man of the hour is welcomed back to Downtown Santa Cruz. Bring the family or participate! The Holiday Parade is Rain or Shine!

WILDER RANCH: HOLIDAY LIVING HISTORY EVENT

December 11, 11am 3pm

Step back in time with costumed docents as we turn back the clock to over 100 years ago. Watch machine shop and blacksmith demonstrations or take a tour of the 1859 Gothic Revival farmhouse and 1897 Victorian home and 1960’s cow barn. Rain cancels. Food will not be available. Free event. Vehicle day-use fee is $10. For more information, call (831) 426-0505.

APTOS CHAMBER TREE LIGHTING AND CRAFT FAIR

December 3, 1-5pm, Aptos Village Green Join us for an evening filled with holiday cheer, local craft vendors, music, drinks, cookies, and of course pictures with Santa! www.aptoschamber.com 831.688.1467

BOULDER CREEK TREE LIGHTING AND SANTA COMES TO TOWN

Sun, December 4, 3pm Boulder Creek

The Boulder Creek Business Association invites you to the annual Boulder Creek tree lighting and Santa Comes to Town event in Historic Downtown Boulder Creek. Fun for all ages in the spirit of the holidays!

FELTON HOLIDAY MARKET ON THE COVERED BRIDGE

December 17, 11am 3pm

Come celebrate the season at Felton Covered Bridge Park! Join us for a traditional Holiday Market on the bridge, complete with arts & crafts, delicious food & beverages, music, holiday lights and other festivities. Event is co-hosted by the San Lorenzo Valley Chamber of Commerce, Santa Cruz County Parks, and the San Lorenzo Valley Post.

SANTA CRUZ DANCE GUILD: NUTCRACKER PERFORMANCE

December 18 – 19

Join us for our annual Santa Cruz Nutcracker performance! Featuring dancers from all ages and backgrounds, we’ve come together to offer you this spectacular show. Many members of our beloved staff, including Studio Director Shannon Chipman and ballet teacher Vicki Bergland, performed in the original Santa Cruz Nutcracker Production. Even more, they continue to dance and teach to this day. Come enjoy Tchaikovsky’s iconic score with our talented dancers in Cabrillo’s Crocker Theater.

SANTA CRUZ BALLET THEATRE: THE NUTCRACKER WITH LIVE ORCHESTRA! December 18 19

Santa Cruz Ballet Theatre presents its 19th annual production of “The Nutcracker” at the Santa Cruz Civic Auditorium with a live orchestra! Music Director Pamela Martin conducts 52 professional musicians to bring the beloved Tchaikovsky score to life. A talented cast of local dancers, including SCBT’s pre-professional Company, is led by guest stars and SCBT alumni Melody Mennite and Lucien Postlewaite.

SANTA CRUZ MAH: HABARI GANI! HONORING KWANZAA

December 29 @ 6pm 8pm

Curated by Santa Cruz Black Health Matters Initiative, this community gathering honors the annual celebration of Kwanzaa. Many lack understanding of its significance and practice. Habari Gani! welcomes the community to join us for: Kinara lighting ceremony, traditional dance, music, and a gift-giving ceremony. Featuring a pop-up by black-owned bookstore, BlknPrint, plus a Kwanzaa market. 10% of sales will be donated to the Santa Cruz Ofrenda.

LIGHTED BOAT PARADE

Saturday, December 3, 5:30 – 6:45pm

Santa Cruz Harbor, 135 5th Avenue, Santa Cruz

Sponsored by the Santa Cruz Yacht Club, the Lighted Boat Parade features 50 beautifully-decorated power and sailboats parading through the Santa Cruz Harbor. Charter boats available. This is a family event with hot drinks and snacks available at various locations through the south harbor. Parade begins at 5:30 pm, rain or shine. Call 831-425-0690 for more information. %

The holidays are just around the corner, and we all know that marks the return of the perennially exciting ballet The Nutcracker. This year’s show is going to be extra special for the community at Agapé Dance because it marks their 10th anniversary! Ever since Melanie Useldinger started Agapé Dance in 2012, they’ve been trying to bring their characteristic blend of the rigor of classical ballet and the warmth and care of agapé love.

While this isn’t most of the dancers’ first rodeo, this Nutcracker will be particularly special for one of Agapé’s newest dancers, Yeva Ziniak. Yeva’s family just moved to the Santa Cruz area after the conflict started in Ukraine earlier this year. After starting ballet on scholarship in the

spring, Yeva got to experience the excitement of ballet for the first time dancing in Agapé’s summer production of Swan Lake. Now, she’s working hard to get ready for her very first Nutcracker!

“Working on Nutcracker really gets me excited about the holidays coming up,” says Director Conrad Useldinger, “and all the things I love about the holidays–the community, the quality time spent together–they can really be felt when I’m working with my students and their families on the show. I’m also looking forward to Yeva

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(in back)

Ziniak

trying mid-week performances. That way, people don’t have to miss all their holiday parties, and it’s so close to Christmas that people can bring their holiday guests to this super fun experience.”

Christina Frankiv, 16, will be playing the role of Sugarplum Fairy this year alongside guest artist Aly Ely. Both Christina and Aly have been dancing at Agapé ever since its opening, so it’ll be fun having both dancers on-stage for the 10th Anniversary show. Along with these fabulous dancers, this year’s show will be featuring a special new section for Agapé alumni choreographed by Aly Ely. The creative team at Agapé can’t wait for the community to see this spectacular show.

This year, you can catch Agapé Dance’s 10th Anniversary Nutcracker at Cabrillo College’s Crocker Theater, where it will be showing on Wednesday, Dec. 21st and Thursday, Dec. 22nd, with shows at 2:30pm and 6:30pm on both days. A portion of the ticket sales for the show will be donated to Nova Ukraine, an organization providing humanitarian aid to Ukrainians during the ongoing struggle. Tickets start at $35. %

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Santa Cruz Ballet Theatre Nutcracker Tickets Make a Great Holiday Gift

By Betty Sanchez Photos by Steve DiBartolomeo

Santa Cruz County’s resident ballet company Santa Cruz Ballet Theatre presents The Nutcracker at the Civic Auditorium this December 10 and 11. This year marks the 20th of this holiday classic at the Civic with live orchestra. SCBT moved its production to the Civic in 2002, building a custom stage using local union stage hands, and setting the musicians in front, which allows the audience to see them in action during the performance. SCBT continues to bring 52 professional musicians under the baton of Music Director Pamela Martin to local audiences. 2022 also marks Maestro Martin’s 10th year conducting the orchestra.

The SCBT Nutcracker features over 50 local dancers, including its own talented pre-professional company dancers. These dancers train rigorously all year long, honing their physical and artistic skills for many hours every week. Many of these young dancers will move on to a career in the field, as the graduate ratio of professional dancers produced by SCBT is incredibly high. Come see the professional dancers of the future in their formative years! The official academy of SCBT includes choreography training in its syllabus,

and this year, three of the company dancers are creating the Arabian divertissement for the stage. With the right training and mentoring, these young people can do it all!

Guest artist and SCBT alumna Melody Mennite will star as the Sugar Plum Fairy. Melody is the quintessential Sugar Plum and has danced this role with SCBT many times, including as a 16-year-old student as well as guest artist. A principal dancer with Houston Ballet, Melody relishes the ability to return to her hometown and reconnect with local audiences as well as the dancers who might just follow in her footsteps.

SCBT recommends viewers be at least 3 years of age, as the performance is approximately 2 hours long with one twenty-minute intermission. Concessions will be sold, but must be enjoyed in the lobby or outside, not brought into the auditorium. Downtown Santa Cruz sports a vibrant restaurant scene, so please enjoy your favorite eatery or find a new one to try for a snack or meal before or after the performance.

SCBT is following local and federal health protocol and recommends that every person entering the Civic

Auditorium be vaccinated. It is also highly recommended that audience members wear masks while indoors. Should health and safety recommendations change by December, SCBT will follow local and federal mandates. To lessen the spread of all communicable diseases and illnesses, please do NOT come to the performance if you are feeling sick or have any Covid or flu-like symptoms. SantaCruzTickets.com offers a new ticket insurance

policy which can be added to any ticket purchase.

The Nutcracker presented by Santa Cruz Ballet Theatre with live orchestra at the Santa Cruz Civic Auditorium. Performances are Saturday, December 10 and Sunday, December 11 at 1pm and 4:30pm each day. Tickets can be purchased at SantaCruzTickets.com or by calling (831) 420-5260 or at the Civic Box Office, 307 Church Street.

Featured Restaurants & Eateries in Santa Cruz County

Trestles Nick Sherman

Established in 2021, Trestles Restaurant, takes its name from its location, steps away from the iconic Capitola Trestle. Our philosophy is simple: using proper technique, stay committed to using local, fresh, ingredients to create seasonal fare that people will come back for.

Trestles represents the life long dream of Chef Nick Sherman to open his very own restaurant. Chef Nick is extremely grateful to his countless friends and family who have helped him tirelessly to realize this dream. We sincerely hope you’ll feel the love and hard work that went into these walls and look forward to serving you! Trestles provide a culinary experience for Capitola unlike any other. Utilizing seasonal locally sourced produce. The menu will often be updated to reflect the current availability of our area’s rich assortments of fruits and vegetables along with varied techniques and inspiration with which to approach it.

Gift Cards

Treat your friends and family to the Trestles dining experience! Our gift cards are perfect for any occasion and are available in any denomination. Besides our physical gift cards, available at the restaurant, Trestles now offers E-Gift cards!

Private Events

Planning a special event or celebration? Let Trestles be your host with our delicious menu and beautiful space. Private dining buyouts are available for celebrating birthdays, anniversaries, graduations, weddings, and corporate events.

Dave Baskerville

The Parish Pub

The Parish Pub in Aptos was started in 2017 by four friends who have worked in Santa Cruz restaurants and bars for over 20 years. They decided to start a sister pub to the already established Parish Publick House on the West side of Santa Cruz. Joel, Nate, and Erik, teamed up with their friend Karen to create a service oriented pub with a neighborhood feel. They have an emphasis on warm service, quality fresh food, a comfortable family friendly atmosphere, and the best beer and cocktails they can serve.

The Parish Pub Aptos offers to go food, patio dining and inside seating. The kitchen has been led by Chef Dave Baskerville who has increased the delicious “small bite” offerings to offer quality food and flavors. Bar manager Melissa Stoll has continued to scout exceptional beers and to make a fun and innovative craft cocktail menu. In addition, the Parish Pub was an early adopter of the Impossible Burger and offers many other vegetarian and healthy options to ensure there is something for everyone.

Steve Wilson Cafe Cruz Rosticceria & Bar

Chef Steve Wilson, who owns and operates Café Cruz, delights in the flavors and cooking styles found in North America’s diverse cultures and regions, as well as many international cuisines. Launched in 1995, Café Cruz has been a favorite restaurant for locals and visitors for many years.

Steve’s interest in cooking began as a teenager growing up in Pennsylvania. His early experiences in kitchens on the east coast and in Santa Cruz sparked a passion for blending regional flavors with locally harvested foods. Steve emphasizes healthy and high-quality ingredients, embracing both American and Global cuisines.

Wilson is committed to the environment and to the greater Santa Cruz Community. Café Cruz is an avid supporter of area schools and the programs of many community organizations. Steve was a former recipient of the Second Harvest Food Bank’s Hunger Fighters Award. The restaurant offers something extra for every event. The interior décor was designed to offer an open, festive, and casual atmosphere. A classic French made Rotisol rotisserie is in full view featuring natural meats and poultry. Chefs can be seen working their magic in the open copper-backed kitchen. The murals depicting local scenes are the work of local artist Terry Wells.

Visitors enjoy cocktails and appetizers in our bar featuring a distinctive adobe-style fireplace (the creation of artist/contractor Shan Gilmore). In keeping with our eco-friendly philosophy, the wood tables and custom bar top are made from sustainable hard woods. For those who prefer open air dining, Cafe Cruz’s heated patio is just the thing. The focal point of the patio is the beautiful Tuscan fireplace, surrounded by greenery and flowers. Our cozy fire-table is a fun place to gather for cocktails. For banquets and other special occasions, the lush garden room with its distinctive waterfall fountain is an ideal choice. Café Cruz gift certificates are a great way celebrate! Available in person or at cafecruz.com

Come Dine with us for the Holidays

Willie Case Wharf House Restaurant

Owner Willie Case fell in love with the location of The Wharf House and bought the business over thirty years ago in 1984. The sweeping views of Capitola Village and all of Monterey Bay area are a special treat while enjoying some of the best food in Santa Cruz County! There’s a full breakfast menu, and for lunch, an assortment of burgers, sandwiches, clam chowder, and of course, fish and chips. For a special weekend brunch, try a glass of champagne and one of the Eggs Benedict dishes, which are a house specialty. For dinner, it’s a great place to watch the sunset over the ocean.

That feeling of being over the waters of Monterey Bay and the possible appearance of sea creatures while strolling down the wharf to the restaurant is intoxicating. There is also that added expectation of reaching the end of the wharf where the friendly atmosphere and marvelous menu of the Wharf House Restaurant awaits. If you want to start your day watching the sun rising up over Monterey Bay with the twin stacks at Moss Landing in the distance while savoring breakfast, then the Wharf House is the place to be!

Jean Pierre luliano Café Mare

Cozze e Vongole, Crespolini di Zucca, Vitello Classico are a few of the authentic Italian delights at Cafe Mare in Santa Cruz. Top off your meal with tiramisu, panna cotta, or semifreddo limoncello. To rev up your taste buds, just read the menu.

Owner Jean Pierre Iuliano, from Calabria in southern Italy, procures the finest fresh, local ingredients – think fish and produce – and imports cheese, pasta and extra virgin olive oil to create simple goodness.

Calabria is at the southernmost tip of Italy’s mainland, nearly surrounded by water. Historically people there are known for tasty food that is easy to make, featuring pork, a local chili pepper, swordfish, the purply sweet Tropea onions and eggplants.

Iuliano’s recipes come from his mother in his homeland. He graduated from Università della Calabria in 1992, and opened Café Mare in 2002. Customers rave about the gluten-free options such as gluten-free bread, gluten-free ravioli with a butter sage sauce and gluten-free penne with chicken and spinach with gluten free penne.

Guests advise: Don’t overlook the specials – they are amazing. An extensive collection of fine Italian and California wines is available, along with classic cocktails. Live jazz is an attraction on Fridays and Saturdays. You’re likely to find many of the staff are from Italy. The people who work here remember you – and treat you like family. If you are in the mood for Italian, this is the place – a bit of Italy right here in Santa Cruz. We also have a fulll bar and featuring several unique craft cocktails.

Buon Appetito!

Peppermint Bark

A quick recipe for peppermint bark. 

12 oz. semisweet chocolate chips – chopped

12 oz. white chocolate chips – chopped

1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract

8 candy canes or 26 peppermint candies, crushed

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Fill the bottom of a large pot with 3” water and bring to simmer over medium heat. Reduce heat to low, then place a large heatproof bowl on top. Add semi-sweet chocolate and stir occasionally until chocolate has melted. Stir in extract. Pour into prepared baking sheet and spread into an even layer with a spatula.

Refrigerate until set, about 20 minutes.

Over the same pot of barely simmering water, place another large heatproof bowl. Add white chocolate and stir until melted. Pour over set semi-sweet chocolate then top immediately with candy canes. Refrigerate until set, about 20 minutes. %