McDonald's

Burgers were delicious, fries were very good as well. Little tough to find a table on a Saturday…read morebut the live music and overall vibe are solid. Slightly overpriced since there is no table service. Parking is less than ideal as well since it's central to Santa Cruz but that's expected. Maybe the best part is the fact that everyone in your group can find something to eat (even if it's not Belly Goat) since there are several options in Abbott Square. This is what the US should look like. People of all ethnicities enjoying food from all over the world (I know, I know, I got a burger lol). But everyone just chillin', enjoying great weather and good food. Highly recommend a stop here

If you're a cow eater, this is your place. My husband devoured his Cowboy Burger ($18.00). He…read morethought the burger was juicy and prepared perfectly with paired toppings. The Lost Boys ($6.75)(garlic fries) were perfection. The fries are separate from the garlic confit and herbs provided in an Individual container. The garlic was well balanced in flavor, far from being overwhelming, fresh and so satisfying when paired with the fries. The Ahi Burger ($15) was not my favorite. The brioche bun was soft and toasted slightly, the slaw was crunchy and flavorful, the burger itself needed flavor. It felt like an afterthought rather than a main highlight of this dish. If we return, I would try the Forager ($14) a portobello, avocado mash burger I missed on the menu.

Inside

Pork belly fries

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Seoul Surfer Burger

Pretty Good Advice - Santa Cruz

4.5(118 reviews)

0.7 mi

Delicious and appreciated the vegan and gluten free options! I got a vegan cheese burger and my…read morehusband got a vegan chicken sandwich!! My patty was made out of beans but tasted like a regular burger!! Instead of fries we decided to get this spicy cucumber side dish - 10/10 and customer service was great!

Pros: Very nice people, quick service, interesting sandwich! Good gluten free bun. No complaints…read more Will def try it again in San Jose which is closer to me. Cons: Found $14 to be steep for such a small sandwich, and could have had a bit more flavor (maybe some spice?). Some customizable options for sandwiches would be great such as being able to choose which items you want from a list and what sauce/cheese.

Madi's Moody Morning sandwich. Vegan AF!

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Interior of Pretty Good Advice - they also have lots of outdoor seating under a tree so not too sunny.

Betty Burgers

3.8(1.5k reviews)

1.4 mi

Betty Burgers is a Santa Cruz classic for me. I first heard about this place from my cousin when he…read morewas attending UC Santa Cruz ages ago, and it's become a mainstay for our family over the years. The burgers, fries, and onion rings are always a solid choice. I've been here countless times with friends and family, and we even came here for my cousin's bachelor party. It's one of those places that holds a lot of memories, which makes coming back even more special. Definitely a go-to spot in Santa Cruz, with a classic diner feel where you can grab a yummy meal!

I've eaten at this Betty Burgers many times because the food is usually good. It's not the best…read moreburger in Santa Cruz but it's a decent and I want to support the businesses affected by the road closure. This visit was a little disappointing. The burgers seemed sloppier than usual and just weren't as good as they've been in the past. What really bothered me, though, was the 3.95% credit/debit card service charge. I didn't notice it until after I had already paid because the only explanation was printed at the bottom of the receipt. If you're going to charge customers an extra fee for using a card, that should be made very clear before they order so they have the option to pay cash. Between the food that wasn't up to par and an added processing fee, this visit just wasn't worth it. I don't mind paying for good food but I don't like feeling nickel-and-dimed over an extra charge that wasn't obvious before ordering. Transparency goes a long way.

Inside

Chicken | Garlic Fries

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The Duke Burger

Betty's Eat Inn

3.4(539 reviews)

0.7 mi

This is one of my favorite places in Santa Cruz downtown. There are good options for different…read moretastes in burgers. You can get the classic Betty, the Duke, with pine able and teriyaki sauce, and other options like chicken strips, and a veggie burger as well. Other delicioso things are the sweet potato fries, which are the best in town, and anywhere!!! Their hot wings are a must, and if you pair it with a beer, it is much better! If you want a good burger, there are many options in Santa Cruz, but Betty's is definitely among the best, price wise, quality and taste.

Upon entering, we were greeted right away and sat outside by the hostess. It's a cool edgy vibe…read moreinside. I went on a weekday afternoon and there were a good amount of people in and out. Service was so friendly and fast which I appreciated. We ordered 2 Basic Betty's (w cheese) which is the smaller option of the big Betty burger. Along with a basket of 1/2 curly fries, 1/2 onion rings. Everything was delish!!!! The Diet Coke was flat, but food and service on point! Would def come back if I was in the area again.

The point grinder--mushrooms, bleu cheese & bacon

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Oblò

4.4(84 reviews)

0.5 mi

Upon entering, we were promptly greeted and lead through their nice lounge area to the…read morewell-appointed dining room. After selecting our drink preferences, bread service was initiated. Attention to details by our host was evident and appreciated. Our entrées arrived nicely plated in a short time. We greatly enjoyed our entrées of Spagetti alle Vongole and Seabass Fish of the Day. Live music was being performed in the lounge throughout our dining experience which greatly enhanced the ambiance of the meal and restaurant. The live music was a contemporary jazz quartet followed by a clarinet and drums duo ensemble. The atmosphere of Obló is conducive to a relaxing rendezvous for a drink or dining with friends, or to embrace the intimate and romantic undertone of their fine dining venue with one's significant other.

Oblo is located in the cusp of downtown, across from Abbott Square where you are close enough to…read morehear (and feel) the music while dining in a circular glass windowed room. Oblo has a family-style warmth with the paper menus and touch lamps that look like candles and yet it also feels like the perfect Date Night restaurant because of the ambiance, cool lighting, top shelf bar menu, great service and impressive food. I was there for a birthday, and Oblo surprised even me with their stellar service when they marched a line of smiling staff members out with a slice of beautiful cheesecake over a zigzag of blueberry compote and sung happy birthday in such a joyful way that the other customers joined along. It was definitely special. We had great service all night -- from the first person we saw to the last. Every dish was delicious!

One of their soft cocktails and so yummy

Seared Scallops

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Risotto Funghi

Hula's Island Grill - Santa Cruz

3.9(2.7k reviews)

Hula's completely saved my birthday dinner! After arriving at the restaurant I had originally…read morechosen and being told they couldn't accommodate my party, Hula's was able to seat our entire group and made it feel like my birthday was always meant to be celebrated there. The customer service was amazing from beginning to end. I wish I could remember the staff members' names, but hopefully they remember our group! Everyone was so kind and attentive. They complimented us throughout the night, took pictures for us, and truly made me feel celebrated. The drinks were great and made just right. I honestly couldn't have asked for a better birthday experience. Thank you, Hula's, for turning the night around and making my celebration so special!

Delicious food! Jerk plate is phenomenal! And so is there…read moredesserts. We got the oreo based pie with the local ice cream as the filling which had macadamia nuts in it; it was so good! And it's enough to share for 2 people. I will definitely be back for the jerk plate and the desserts! Service was good! They checked in on us. Gave us great recommendations. Maria was our server and she did such an amazing job! Made us feel welcomed. There is plenty of seats inside and some outside as well. We chose to sit inside as it gave beautiful dim romantic atmosphere.

"Tiki Room"

Sweet Potato Fries

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Hawaiian ceviche

Lupulo Craft Beer House

4.4(537 reviews)

Always a favorite for us! New menu did not disappoint-great…read moresized portions and fresh, well seasoned and reasonable priced food. Beer selection always interesting-we came for the Double Dry Hopped Pliny from Russian River Brewing. Service was spot on, love the new booth seating in the back -great spot to watch the World Cup.

I was not impressed at all with this place. First of it gives off a very unfriendly vibe. It's open…read moreseating so you order your food and drinks at the bar. I ordered the carnitas nachos, cheese bread, beer and a Coke. I asked for cup of ice and the bartender says we have no ice. You have no ice? What kind of bar has no ice? It's like 80 degrees outside you have no ice? On a Saturday night? Ok fine. Next there were the sorry nachos! the chips were these stale cheap chips the ones you get at Safeway you know those giant low quality 2.99 a bag chips. They give us a small piece of carnitas the rest is beans and other fillers they were not good. The staff is not friendly. We sat down outside and the person cleaning the table next to us was hating life mainly her job as she was cleaning the table next to us like when your mom is mad at you for not cleaning your room all mad slamming silverware hard on the table. I was like "ok". I will not be coming back to lupulo no bueno.

The tap selection

Tacos

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Non-Alc Cider

Jack's Hamburgers

4.0(616 reviews)

TikTok sent us here and it didn't let us down! After hearing what a staple Jack's is in Santa Cruz,…read morewe had to try it while we were in the area. Let me tell ya, this is one of the best burgers I've had in a hot minute. I got the Western Burger, which had chilli w/ beans, jalapeños, and barbecue sauce. This burger was perfect in basically every way. The chili was incredibly rich and savory, the jalapeños added a nice crunch and acidity, and the barbecue sauce added some sweetness. So many flavors at once that worked so well. It was well worth the mess. My wife got the Bacon Cheeseburger with a 1/3 lb patty. I really appreciated how many cheese options they had. The veggies were fresh and abundant. And that bacon was perfection. Crisp, but still had a good chew, and was thick. This was a classic done right. The fries were also fantastic. Nice and crisp but fluffy on the inside. And the portions were very generous. The place overall just feels like exactly what you want from a local burger shop. A charming burger sculpture on the roof, very friendly staff, ton of outdoor seating. If you've heard about or have been meaning to come to this place, it's well worth the hype.

This place hit the spot! Everything was so fresh and quick. The restaurant smells like fresh bbq…read moreand the team was super friendly. It's a smaller restaurant than I thought but we were in and out of there in 30 minutes.

Full menu

Patty Melt in nature

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Five Guys

2.8(132 reviews)

•$

just too overpriced. a cheeseburger meal and shake was almost $30! food is alright but not worth…read morethat.

As someone who lives nearby, can y'all please stop setting off your fire alarm?? It's at least once…read morea week at this point and it's getting obnoxious.

A photograph of the contents of a Five Guys burger bowl, which include two ground beef patties, tomatoes, jalapenos, lettuce ...

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A Five Guys hot dog sits on the counter in a Five Guys restaurant.

West End

4.0(1.2k reviews)

2.2 mi

We had dinner here during our stay. We ordered the okonomiyaki fries and pacific calamari to share…read more I ordered the steamed mussels for my main. The okonomiyaki fries were delicious. The fries with the spicy mayo and teriyaki sauce made the dish. It was very savory. My son enjoyed it. The fried calamari was also good. The calamari and jalapeno peppers were crispy and salted well. The sweet and sour sauce that accompanied it was added a slight heat to the dish. We enjoyed our meal here and would return the next time we are in Santa Cruz.

I returned to West End over a year after my last visit, and so much has changed! They rebranded to…read moreWest End Izakaya and now serve Asian-inspired dishes, rather than their previous American farm-to-table menu. Honestly, I can't say this change is an improvement. My grandma and I visited around dinner on a Saturday and were seated on the (dog-friendly) patio. They did have propane heaters, but not enough of them, so it was quite chilly. For drinks, we both got hot Green Tea to warm up, which was very standard - served in pre-packed tea bags. For food, we ordered the Okonomiyaki Fries and Maitake Mushroom Flatbread to share. The Okonomiyaki Fries were pretty good and I enjoyed all the toppings, especially the spicy pink mayo. I usually prefer thinner fries, but I liked the crispy texture. However, the Maitake Mushroom Flatbread was a bit disappointing. There just wasn't enough bechamel and mozzarella on top and the flavor somewhat bland. Service was friendly, but I miss their old menu offerings, like the Heirloom Tomato Flatbread. Not a huge fan of the rebrand!

Booths

Fireplace

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Ipa sampler

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14 reviews that are not currently recommended

The reviews below are not factored into the business's overall star rating.

Marcos B.

2 years ago

The McDonalds franchises in Santa Cruz are currently falsely advertising their nationwide promos. They advertise their $5 meal deal for a McChicken or McDouble with 4 piece nuggets, fries and small drink, but charge a dollar up charge for a McDouble meal deal compared to a McChicken meal deal. Beware and take part of the class action lawsuit for the wrongful advertising taken place in these franchise locations. They have to abide by nationwide promos and are taking advantage of people who are not aware. It may seem like a little inconvenience, but if it doesn't end here, then where will it end?? It's the franchise owners that are responsible, taking advantage of the people of our community. read more

Jaymie H.

177

124

9 years ago

This place needs to be knocked down and built all over again. It's nasty inside , nasty outside. The cashier Anthony is either a complete asshole or just slow. I hate this place always have but my daughter wanted me to stop for her so we did. I have been here several times and vowed never to go back. I told her to never ever make me go back there again. Not only are there several meth heads loitering but a few homeless who fight and beat the crap out of each other for a spot in the parking lot. Not family friendly and crap service. read more

Junior J.

302

12 years ago

A McDonalds dominated by transients. Witnessed two homeless back to back accumulate almost 20 minutes time in the bathroom taking away from the line of actual paying customers. Was forced to have my 3 year old urintae in the parking lot by our car because I refused to have him use a bathroom after knowing someone was using periphinelia in it. No drive thru so if you must go I would suggest grabbing your food to go. read more

Brian K.

276

15 years ago

Not awesome One of the worst mcdonalds i have been to. Some of the staff can barely understand english, this language barrier may explain why there are so many homeless and druggies hanging out in and around the mcdonalds. The worst instances of homeless in this mcdonalds is when it rains. Literally every seat/table has at least one transient just hanging out. read more

Angel M.

15 years ago

It's McDonald's. It's disgusting even when it is "good." This place on Ocean Street is no exception. The grungiest dirtiest people come here; ghetto hoodlums, crack heads and homeless people. Be prepared for a knife fight... That's all there is to say. Some employees don't speak english that well, but whatever. It's McDonald's. read more

Michael O.

7 years ago

Typical McDonald's, except the food is slower to prep, and I would go more often if it weren't for the homeless bums sitting outside all the time. I wish they would chase them away so I can stop by and get food more often. read more

Karleigh F.

3 years ago

Their food is disgusting as is their corporate. The workers deserve to be paid a hundred times better, but it's all the corporate that makes McDonalds a horrible place to eat. read more

Sandra M.

10 years ago

Please do NOT come here, this place is disgusting, and dirty and not to mention their bad customer service!!! My pictures speak for themselves! read more

Tom Y.

127

12 years ago

Isn't it bad enough that they don't have a drive thru, do you really need to have homeless street rats inside begging for money as well ..... read more

Ed F.

8 years ago

Bum Haven, stay away! Filthy and dangerous! If you're looking for a communicable disease you've come to the right place.

SantaCruz L.

16 years ago

they need homeless patrol at this location. i get hit up for change every time i go in

Martin H.

10 years ago

Absolute worst collect of idiots work here. Never going back.

Boo L.

11 years ago

I really don't know why I'm talking

Celeste E.

11 years ago

McDonald's - coffee - Updated October 2026

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THIS is what I'm talkin' about! I stopped by here after not visiting Togos for about a year (no…read moreparticular reason for the absence... I've always liked the quality of the product here). I was delighted to see that the ordering process has improved -- now, they have self-service kiosks to place the order. As silly as this sounds, it's actually really nice. I can get my custom order exactly the way that I want and it saves time with staff not having to split time between transaction processing and sandwich making. Solid improvements folks. Please keep it up. I'll definitely be back.

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