At Rye Home, we believe in the essence of home—where meals are more than just food, but moments of connection, warmth, and celebration. Whether it’s a romantic dinner, a gathering with loved ones, or an evening with friends, we cherish the idea that food brings people together. In honor of Valentine’s Day, we wanted to shout out five of our favorite local spots in Santa Cruz where you can enjoy an intentional dining experience, create lasting memories, and celebrate the people who make life richer.
Here are our top 5 picks for a memorable night out—where love and connection come together in every bite.
Bantam (Westside)
Bantam is more than just a restaurant; it’s an extension of community, a place where connection happens effortlessly over great food and drinks. Whether you’re with your closest friends, family, or a significant other, Bantam provides a warm, laid-back atmosphere perfect for kicking back and savoring each moment. The space, with its cozy vibe and smooth jams, makes every meal feel like a celebration, much like those nights at home where shared food and laughter are at the heart of it all.
Oswald (Downtown)
Nestled in the heart of downtown Santa Cruz, Oswald offers a sophisticated yet comfortable setting where art, wine, and seasonal ingredients come together. The menu is inspired by the best local produce, and the rotating art shows add a unique cultural touch to every visit. Whether you’re enjoying an intimate dinner or celebrating with a group, Oswald mirrors the essence of an intentional dining experience—much like those meals at home where the food is thoughtfully crafted and the moments are meaningful.
La Posta (Seabright)
La Posta is an intimate neighborhood gem where Italian flavors come to life through house-made pastas, wood-fired pizzas, and locally sourced ingredients. Their ever-changing menu ensures that each visit is unique, just like the way the seasons change and new traditions form in the comfort of our own homes. With its charming interior and backyard ambiance, La Posta is the perfect spot for those evenings when you want to slow down, sip wine, and celebrate life’s simple pleasures with the people you care about.
Trestles Restaurant (Capitola)
Located just steps away from the iconic Capitola Trestle, Trestles brings a relaxed coastal vibe and a commitment to fresh, local ingredients. The restaurant’s seasonal menu highlights the bounty of the Santa Cruz area, and its inviting atmosphere creates the perfect backdrop for a celebration—whether it’s a romantic dinner or an evening with family and friends. Much like how the comfort of home offers a place to unwind and reconnect, Trestles offers a space where every bite feels like a moment to savor.
HOME (Capitola)
HOME is the embodiment of what we value at Rye: the spirit of gathering, connection, and thoughtful, seasonally inspired meals. It’s a place where every dish feels like an intentional experience, thoughtfully crafted from local ingredients. Just like the rituals that turn our homes into havens, HOME’s cozy, intimate setting makes it the perfect place for everything from date nights to milestone celebrations. The ever-changing menu, sourced from nearby farmers and local families, brings people together—much like the shared meals and memories we hold dear at home.
A Toast to Love, Good Food, and Great Company
At Rye, we believe in the power of intentional dining—whether it’s sharing a thoughtfully crafted meal with those you care about or creating a space where connection thrives. These five Santa Cruz restaurants offer just that: places where every meal is an intentional gathering, every bite feels like a celebration, and the people you share it with make it all the more meaningful.
We hope this list of some of our favorite local spots helps you find the perfect place to create those moments of warmth, connection, and celebration, year-round. Happy Valentine’s Day from the Rye Home team—because love is always better when shared over a meal!
