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Best American Restaurant in Santa Cruz

Good Food. Great Drinks. Unforgettable Memories!

Welcome To The Water Street Grill

Step into The Water Street Grill at 503 Water Street, Santa Cruz, CA, where family-owned warmth meets farm-to-table excellence. Enjoy handcrafted drinks, locally sourced ingredients, and a vibrant atmosphere that makes every visit special.
Culinary Creations That Inspire & Excite All Sense

Culinary Creations That Inspire & Excite All Sense

Immerse yourself in a dining experience where each plate is a playful balance of colors, textures, and aromas. From artfully layered compositions to bold flavor pairings, every dish is crafted to surprise and delight, leaving a lingering sense of curiosity and satisfaction.

Order From Our Website

Craving the fresh, vibrant flavors of The Water Street Grill? Easily place your order online and enjoy the same farm-to-table quality and handcrafted drinks from the comfort of your home. Quick, convenient, and always delicious.

Browse through stunning visuals of our handcrafted dishes!

Ready To Reserve Your Table?

Looking to enjoy a cozy evening, celebrate a special occasion, or simply indulge in exceptional flavors? Book your table now and let us create a memorable experience that will linger long after your visit.
Local Catering For Special Events

Local Catering For Special Events

From intimate gatherings to grand celebrations, our catering brings thoughtfully crafted flavors and elegant presentation straight to your table. Let us make your next event unforgettable with a menu designed to impress and delight every guest.

Visit Us Today! 🥂

Come enjoy fresh flavors, handcrafted drinks, and a warm, inviting atmosphere any day you visit! We’re open and ready to welcome you every day of the week: Hours of Operation: Mon–Thu: 4:30 PM – 9 PM Fri: 4 PM – 9:30 PM Sat–Sun: 12 PM – 3 PM & 4:30 PM – 9:30 PM

What our guests are saying

Lovely experience dining here! Dina was super genuine, friendly, and accommodating. We really enjoyed chatting with her. Also, this was the only restaurant that was willing to accommodate our request for deep fried fish that weren't "beer battered" the chef did a great job. Thank you all!

Ahmad M.

Love love love this establishment. Finally, a chef that knows how to prepare and cook. We had the seafood pasta dish and I ate it all. After experiencing Italy a couple of times, I thought America couldn't, let alone Santa Cruz, compare but was I wrong. Finally, a place you can assure you'll get the best. So happy to know my hard earned earnings will give me the best experience...bravo

L

I absolutely loved the food and service, and the atmosphere is quite nice. The food was flavorful, and our waiter was so fun and kind and attentive. I didn't catch his name, but he was great. He brought me his recommended choice of wine, which was delicious. The dessert: I was pleasantly surprised. A larger amount of dessert, which I did not expect (amazing surprise), and that was so yummy and beautifully plated. I look forward to returning again soon! Added to my favorites for Santa Cruz.

Rocio C.

Featuring

Catering

Delivery

Takeout

Dine In

Outdoor Seating

Kids' Menu

The Water Street Grill Rewards

Join our rewards program, earn points every time you order online and redeem your points for free food!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are you known for?

We're known for fresh coastal seafood, hand-crafted burgers, premium steaks, and a welcoming American grill experience in Santa Cruz.

  • Seafood: The seafood menu spans coastal classics and bold flavors, from chowder and tacos to grilled and fried favorites. Representative items include Clam Chowder Bowl, Grilled Wild Salmon, Blackened Shrimp Tacos, Fish & Chips, Crispy Calamari, and Calamari Steak Almondine.
  • Steak: The steak selection features premium cuts cooked to order, with options to pair with shrimp or lobster tail. Representative items include Filet Mignon 8 oz, Rib Eye, New York Strip Steak, Skirt Steak, Rib Eye With Lobster Tail, and Filet Mignon With Lobster Tail.
  • Pasta: The pasta menu offers comforting classics and elevated dishes, from creamy Alfredo to organic ravioli and seafood-forward preparations. Representative items include Fettuccine Alfredo, Organic Lobster Ravioli, Seafood Pasta, Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta, Spaghetti Carbonara, and Organic Spinach Ravioli.
  • Salads: The salad offerings range from simple sides to hearty, fully loaded bowls built with fresh, flavorful ingredients. Representative items include Water Street House Salad, Caesar Salad Regular, Cobb Salad, Kitchen Sink Salad, and Wild Arugula Salad.
  • Burgers: The burger lineup covers everything from classic American stacks to creative specialty builds, including turkey and veggie options. Representative items include Americana Burger, The Ultimate Burger, Cowboy Burger -D, Gouda Burger -D, Herb Turkey Burger -D, and Veggie Burger -D.

Additionally, explore Desserts, American Food, Sandwiches, and Ice Cream.

What meals do you serve?

We serve Lunch and Dinner

Do you offer delivery or takeout?

Yes, we offer Takeout and Delivery

Where are you located?

We are located in Santa Cruz, CA at 503 Water Street

What areas do you serve?
Anything else?

We are also known for Family Friendly Restaurant

Our location

Map showing the location of The Water Street Grill on 503 Water Street in Santa Cruz
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