Tag Archives: Hotel Paradox
Thanksgiving highlights for Santa Cruz & Scotts Valley
The dining room at 1440 Multiversity in Scotts Valley
Credit: 1440 Multiversity
Thanksgiving is rapidly approaching, and there are lots of offerings you can choose from—including a unique day at Scotts Valley’s 1440 Multiversity, restaurants with lunch or dinner, and caterers and personal chefs that have prepared food options. Here are a few highlights.
1440 Multiversity is offering an inclusive day of Thanksgiving programming. The cost is $125; this includes breakfast (8-9 a.m.), lunch (noon-1:30 p.m.) plus Thanksgiving dinner (4:30-6:30 p.m.). Tickets must be purchased by 4 p.m. Friday, Nov. 17. The dinner menu includes Oven Roasted Turkey, Cranberry Confit, Turkey Gravy (vegetarian entrée available); Roasted Brussels Sprout Apple Hash, Chive Gremolata, Fresh Horseradish; and Green Bean Casserole, Wild Mushroom, and Oven Dried Shallot. For the day, attendees will have full access to the campus including workshops, hiking trails, movement classes such as yoga, and an infinity tub soak at the Healing Arts center (participants also receive a $20 discount on any healing treatment of 50 minutes or longer, including massage). A kirtan concert follows dinner. Buy tickets and see full schedule online.
800 Bethany Dr., Scotts Valley, 1440.org
Vegetarian Thanksgiving to go: organic prepared food business The Open Hearth is offering a to-go Thanksgiving menu. All orders must be placed by Friday, Nov. 17 and will be ready for pick up Wednesday, Nov. 22 after 4:30 p.m. Selections are Winter Squash Apple Bisque; Pomegranate Persimmon Spinach Salad w/ Goat Cheese & Pomegranate Vinaigrette; Baked Tofu Strips (with Wildwood sprouted firm tofu); Garlic Mashed Potatoes; Portobello Mushroom Gravy; Roasted Brussels Sprouts (with Rodoni Farms sprouts); Cashew Carrot Spread; Jumbo Cornbread Muffins; and Cranberry Apple Crisp. Founder/chef Beth Freewomon has been offering ready-made meals made from organically grown, gluten-free, plant-based and whole unprocessed foods to the local community for more than 10 years. Visit IAmTheOpenHearth.com or contact 831-471-9677 or bethfreewomon@yahoo.com
Whole Foods Market has many take-out and catering options available in Santa Cruz and Capitola. All orders must be placed by Tuesday, Nov. 21; WFM recommends ordering as soon as possible, as some selections will sell out. WFM partnered with Philadelphia-based fine dining vegan restaurant Vedge to create a Vegan Meal for Two ($39.99), which includes lentil-mushroom stuffing, mustard-glazed cauliflower, a chocolate toffee mini cake and more. A la carte vegan dishes include roasted butternut squash. Gluten-free selections include several pie varieties from the company Natural Decadence. A traditional turkey dinner for eight for $119.99 contains a fully cooked 10-lb. oven-roasted turkey, herb stuffing, mashed potatoes, organic turkey gravy, and two pounds each of organic cranberry orange sauce and green beans with crispy garlic and parsley (the latter two selections are vegan). For a similar dinner for eight with an organic turkey and slightly different selections, the cost is $159.99. You can place your Thanksgiving dinner orders in person or online at wholefoodsmarket.com/online-ordering. They also have a comprehensive online holiday guide which includes lots of tips and recipes.
911 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz (831) 426-9901
1710 41st Ave., Capitola, (831) 464-2900
Chaminade has a Thanksgiving buffet from noon to 6 p.m. The cost is $60 for adults, $20 for kids 6-12, and free for kids under 6. Selections include roast turkey with warm orange-cranberry compote, roasted Dijon-crusted lamb leg with mint jelly, apple cider braised pork loin with dried cherry bordelaise and crispy prosciutto, butternut squash ravioli with porcini crème and roast vegetable bruschetta, a Greek display (dolmas, falafel, tzatziki, hummus and more), several salads, and winter squash soup with toasted pepita seeds.
One Chaminade Lane, Santa Cruz (831) 475-5600
Aquarius at the Dream Inn is offering a buffet from 1:30-7 p.m. Cost is $64 for adults and $29 for kids 12 and under. Selections include Diestel free range turkey and prime rib carved to order; butternut squash bisque; a salad bar; cheese and charcuterie including Cypress Grove Bermuda Triangle, Marcona almonds, honeycomb, prosciutto, smoked duck breast, assorted pates and seafood and vegetable terrines; and traditional Thanksgiving sides like Yukon gold mashed potatoes and glazed sweet candied yams. Desserts include pumpkin pie, Kentucky bourbon pecan pie, mini pastries and cupcakes.
175 West Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz (831) 426-4330
Severino’s Bar & Grill is offering a buffet from noon to 4:30 p.m. Cost is $42 for adults and $17 for kids 5-10; ages 4 and under are free. Selections include turkey, Angus prime rib of beef, honey-baked country ham and leg of lamb carved to order; traditional stuffing and Yukon mashed potatoes; Caesar salad; clam chowder; fish of the day; and vegetarian ravioli. Desserts include pumpkin pie, pecan pie and vanilla crème brulee.
7500 Old Dominion Court, Aptos (831) 688-8987
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Cornucopia of collaborations at Event Santa Cruz Paradox party
From Awe Shucks Oysters, a “new raw, dressed style called tomato relish” available at the July 21 event (Photo courtesy of Awe Shucks Facebook page)
Event Santa Cruz is hosting “ Collaboration on the Lot” this Friday night at Hotel Paradox’s front parking lot (611 Ocean St.), where several collaborations by local businesses can be viewed and consumed. These products include “Bombshell Oysters” (Awe Shucks Oysters teaming up with MJA Vineyards); a cherry bomb ice cream float (Marianne’s Ice Cream and NuBo); and a signature Event Santa Cruz cocktail (Hotel Paradox’s Solaire Restaurant & Bar is creating this by partnering with local Venus Spirits).
Admission to the 5:30-9pm event is free but attendees need to pre-register at collabonthelot.eventbrite.com. There will be lots of food and drinks to purchase and to sample. Note there is no parking in the Paradox parking lot. They’re asking people to park in the County Bldg. lot after 5pm. There will also be a valet parking option at the hotel ($15) at the entrance on Ocean St.
Featured vendors include:
Agency
Ate3One
Awe Shucks Oysters in collaboration with MJA Vineyards
Drunk Monkeys Food Truck
Flora and Fauna
Friends In Cheeses Jam Company
Gordo Gustavo’s BBQ in partnership with Humble Sea Brewing Co.
In the Redwoods collaborating with Yarn Shop Santa Cruz
Kinderwood Farms
MÄKSĒ BAR
Marianne’s Ice Cream produced with New Bohemia Brewing Co.
Monterey Bay Murals in partnership with The Ville
Mountainside Jewelry
Saucey’z
Solaire Restaurant + Bar in partnership with Venus Spirits
Stripe
This Tiny Ocean collaborating with Davenport Sea Glass
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A roundup of Santa Cruz and Monterey County restaurant Thanksgiving offerings
The main dining area at Solaire, one of many local restaurants serving a special Thanksgiving menu
Photo credit: Hotel Paradox
The countdown to Thanksgiving is on – if you’re planning to dine out in the Santa Cruz area or in Monterey County, here are a few restaurants to consider.
Santa Cruz & Capitola
Solaire at Hotel Paradox offers an a la carte Thanksgiving menu from 4-10 p.m. The nature/nurture-themed menu highlights local, sustainable cuisine with fresh ingredients. Entree choices include Roasted Turkey with mashed potato, stuffing, blue lake beans and gravy, Slow Roasted Prime rib, Pistachio Crusted Rack of Lamb, and Zucchini Fritters with spinach, red cabbage and chive cream. Other highlights include roasted pumpkin soup, butternut squash salad, and cranberry white chocolate chunk graham bars and miniature pumpkin pies. Call 831-425-7100 or visit hotelparadox.com for reservations.
I wanted to also share a fun Hotel Paradox package, whether you’re a local planning a staycation or have friends or family visiting Santa Cruz sometime this holiday season. The Polar Express™ Train Ride package makes it easy to enjoy this seasonal attraction. Afterward, families are invited to snuggle fireside at Solaire for smores and hot cocoa. The “I Believe” package includes overnight accommodations, an exclusive Golden Ticket required for entry to the train, fresh-baked cookies and milk delivered after check-in, a keepsake “I Believe” sleigh bell, and complimentary parking and Wi-Fi. Price is $175 adults/$29 kids. The Polar Express is traveling to Santa Cruz for the first time this season, recreated to match the sights and sounds of the beloved story. It departs from the Santa Cruz Boardwalk. On board the train, dancing chefs will serve warm cookies and hot cocoa to guests, while the Polar Express™ movie soundtrack–including a reading of the story–is played. Santa Claus will meet with each child, delivering silver sleigh bells. Contact the hotel at 831-425-7100 or hotelparadox.com for details.
Chaminade has a Thanksgiving buffet from noon to 6 p.m. The cost is $59.95 for adults, $18.95 for kids 6-12, and free for kids under 6. Selections include roast turkey with warm orange-cranberry compote, roasted Dijon-crusted lamb leg with mint jelly, apple cider braised pork loin with dried cherry bordelaise and crispy prosciutto, butternut squash ravioli with porcini crème and roast vegetable bruschetta, several salads, and winter squash soup with toasted pepita seeds.
One Chaminade Lane, Santa Cruz (831) 475-5600
Zelda’s has a traditional turkey dinner plus additional items on its holiday menu, beginning at noon. The dinner includes oven-roasted turkey, sage stuffing, mashed potatoes and gravy, candied sweet potatoes, cranberries and a roll. A 10 oz. adult portion is $19.95, 14 oz. is $23.95. Kids are $11.95 and pumpkin pie is $5.95.
203 Esplanade, Capitola (831) 475-4900
Hoffman’s is serving both brunch and dinner on Thanksgiving. Brunch is from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. and dinner starting at 3 p.m.
1102 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, (831) 420-0135
Your Place has a Thanksgiving buffet from noon to 7 p.m. The cost is $36.95 for adults, $13.95 for kids 6-12, and free for kids under 6. Selections include traditional roast turkey and house-made cranberry sauce, apple pecan bread stuffing, prime rib, honey brown sugar-glazed ham, grilled salmon with lemon caper sauce, eggs benedict (until 2 p.m.), penne pasta Bolognese, roasted beet salad, Caesar salad, pumpkin pie, apple crisp, lemon tart, chocolate cake and carrot cake.
1719 Mission St., Santa Cruz, (831) 426-3564
Monterey County
Anton & Michel Restaurant will serve its regular dinner menu plus a prix fixe three-course Thanksgiving dinner noon to 8 p.m. There are two choices for first course including spinach and radicchio salad with grilled pears, toasted walnuts, goat cheese and cinnamon-pear vinaigrette. The entrée is roast free-range turkey with cornbread and sausage stuffing, cranberry-port chutney, sweet potato-green onion mash and more. Dessert choices are pumpkin cheesecake and pecan pie. Tea and coffee are included.
Cost is $42 for adults and $21 for kids 12 and under.
Location: Court of the Fountains on Mission between Ocean and Seventh Avenues, Carmel, 831-624-2406
Estéban
Estéban at Casa Munras is offering a few options for Thanksgiving Day, from 1 to 7 p.m. The last seating is at 6:30 p.m. A prix fixe three-course meal is $48 for adults and $23 for kids 5-12. Chef Thomas Snyder will offer two appetizer selections including butternut squash soup with rock shrimp and piquillo peppers. Customers can choose an entrée of turkey, potatoes, Brussels sprouts and homemade cranberry sauce or Snake River trout with white beans, garlic confit and bacon lardons. These items plus Snyder’s signature tapas will also be available a la carte.
700 Munras Ave., Monterey, 831-324-6773
Fandango is serving a prix fixe meal on Thanksgiving from noon to 8 p.m. Cost is $38.95 for adults and $16.50 for kids 12 and under. Entrée choices are roast Tom turkey with chestnut sage stuffing and fresh cranberry sauce; roast sirloin with mushroom sauce; Virginia baked ham with Hawaiian sauce; grilled salmon filet with Café de Paris butter; and fresh cheese tortellini with basil cream sauce. Mashed potatoes and vegetables accompany all entrees except the tortellini.
223 17th St., Pacific Grove, 831-372-3456.
The Portola Hotel and Spa is serving a Thanksgiving buffet from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. in its grand ballroom. Selections include California cheeses and cured meats; peel and eat shrimp; carved to order turkey, prime rib and maple glazed country ham; candied garnet yams; Coke Farm beets with feta, pancetta, Marcona almonds and cider vinaigrette; and acorn squash with pomegranate and pumpkin seeds. Desserts will include pecan and pumpkin pie and holiday cookies. Cost is $54.95 for adults, $39.95 for seniors 65 and up, and $25.95 for kids 6-12. There will be live music by pianist David Conley in the ballroom from 12:30 to 6:30 p.m. and football games will be showing in the foyer.
Two Portola Plaza, Monterey, 831-649-7874
Pacific’s Edge at the Hyatt Carmel Highlands will serve a four-course dinner on Thanksgiving with seatings from 3 to 8 p.m. Cost is $95. Selections include butternut squash soup with Frangelico, brown butter and pepitas; roasted beets with buttermilk mousse, pomegranate seeds, wild arugula and pistachio; and Pacific halibut with mussels, clams, heirloom chile bouillabaisse, saffron rouille and foccacia bread stick.
Hyatt Carmel Highlands, 120 Highlands Dr., Carmel, 831-622-5445
Aubergine at L’Auberge Carmel is serving a prix fixe meal on Thanksgiving, with seatings from 2 to 9 p.m. Cost is $150 per person with optional wine pairings for $110. Selections include white truffles from Alba with carnaroli risotto ($85 supplement); slow-roasted organic turkey; and 21-day dry aged ribeye.
Monte Verde Street and Seventh Avenue, Carmel, 831-624-8578.
The C at Intercontinental The Clement Monterey is serving lunch and dinner on Thanksgiving. Lunch is 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. and there will be a la carte Thanksgiving dishes in addition to the regular lunch menu. Selections include Diestel Farms turkey with Yukon potato puree and sage-brioche stuffing. A prix fixe three-course dinner, from 5:30 to 10 p.m., costs $85 or $125 with wine pairings. Kids 5-12 cost $45. Choices include persimmon salad with Humboldt Fog, candied pecans and pomegranate vinaigrette; matsutake and sweetbreads with parsnip puree and truffle vinaigrette; Niman Ranch natural ribeye with salsify, chanterelle, creamed spinach and sauce bordelaise; and pumpkin upside down cake. There will be live music from noon to 3 p.m. and 6 to 9 p.m. In the evening, a bar menu will be available for bar and patio seating only.
750 Cannery Row, Monterey, 831-375-4800
Sardine Factory is serving a four-course prix fixe menu on Thanksgiving. Seatings are available between 1 and 8 p.m. The menu includes a first course of butternut squash bisque with toasted pumpkin seeds and maple Chantilly crème and an entrée of all-natural Diestel turkey with sage dressing, pan gravy, cranberry orange relish, Yukon gold and sweet potato gratin, fresh green beans and buttered baby carrots. The menu costs $49.75 for adults, $47.75 for 65 and older, $25 for kids 6 to 12. It’s free for kids five and under. A limited a la carte menu and the regular kids’ menu will also be available.
701 Wave St., Monterey, (831) 373-3775
Andre’s Bouchee is serving a three-course prix fixe menu from 2 to 8:30 p.m. Three appetizer choices include Redwood Farm goat cheese salad with baked cheese, baby greens and honey apple cider vinaigrette; and pumpkin soup with brown butter and cinnamon. Three entrée selections are free-range turkey stuffed with chestnuts and winter truffles with mashed potatoes, gravy and cranberry sauce; Bavette (flank) steak; and Monterey black cod with wild mushrooms and cognac reduction. Cost is $46 for adults and $21 for kids 12 and under.
Mission Street between Ocean and Seventh, Carmel, 831-626-7880
TusCA Ristorante at the Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel and Spa is serving a buffet brunch from 1 to 6 p.m. (last seating is at 5:45). Selections include pumpkin soup; seasonal salads; a carving station with roasted turkey and honey ham; a pasta station; and sides such as green bean casserole and glazed yams with marshmallow gratin. Cost is $55 for adults, $25 for children ages 6-12 and free for kids 5 and under. The price includes one glass of champagne for adults over age 21, or sparkling cider. There will be live jazz from 3 to 7 p.m.
1 Old Golf Course Road, Monterey, 831-657-6675
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Cruzin’ Courses offers women’s progressive wine dinner and benefit
One dining area at Hotel Paradox, the site of the Cruzin’ Courses’ start and finish
The ninth annual Cruzin’ Courses is Thursday, Oct. 16, 2014, in downtown Santa Cruz, from 4 to 10 p.m.
Participants are encouraged to park their cars at Hotel Paradox, where the evening begins. It’s a women’s evening of strolling, eating, drinking, shopping, talking, and discovering. One goal of the night is for guests to “discover and rediscover all that our thriving Center (Santa Cruz) has to offer.”
At Hotel Paradox, attendees will enjoy appetizers (coriander cured duck breast, figs, and Bellwether Farms Crescenza cheese) and wine (Chalone Cabernet Sauvignon and Estancia Pinot Grigio). From there, folks will stroll to Soif for soup, salad, and wine, followed by a shopping opportunity (with discount) at Annieglass. The entrée portion of the evening will take place at Red Restaurant and Bar, while dessert will be enjoyed back at Hotel Paradox. See the full schedule below.
Tickets are $125. The event traditionally sells out, so if you’re interested it’s recommended you buy tickets online soon via eventbrite.com (search for “Cruzin’ Courses”).
In the past, this event has benefited scholarships for young women through the Santa Cruz Chamber of Commerce’s Women-In-Business education program. They are still going to receive a portion of the proceeds, but this year, a second beneficiary has been named: a portion of proceeds will be donated to the Santa Cruz Women’s Health Center.
More details:
Event organizers have announced “dressy dinner attire is appropriate.” Self-parking is complimentary and available on a first-come, first-served basis; valet parking is $15. Also, Hotel Paradox is offering a special rate of $165 for overnight accommodations that evening.
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2014 Strolling Schedule and Menu Choices
Hotel Paradox (4pm-5:10pm) hors d’oeuvres
Coriander cured duck breast, figs, and Bellwether Farms Crescenza cheese
Wines: Chalone Cabernet Sauvignon and Estancia Pinot Grigio
Hunter Hill Winery will offer select wines
Soif (5:30pm-6:15pm) soup and salad
Soup: Fall root vegetable soup with Belle Farms extra virgin olive oil
Salad: Salad of Blue Heron red lettuces with scallions, radishes and cucumbers
(Both dishes are dairy, nut, and gluten free)
Wine: Tyrell’s Hunter Valley Semillon 2007
Annieglass (6:25pm-7:35pm) retail therapy
Enjoy a refreshing palate cleanser and receive a 20% discount on all first quality Annieglass pieces.
Red Restaurant and Bar (7:45pm-8:30pm) entrée
Petrale Sole
Pan fried, with sautéed Blue Lake beans, potato puree and caper brown butter OR
Chicken Breast
Herb roasted chicken with wild mushrooms, cheese grits and pan juices OR
Tuscan Orecchiette
Pasta with brussel sprouts, gigante beans, roasted pearl onions, garlic chips and pecorino cheese
Wine: Your choice of red or white
Hotel Paradox (9pm-10pm) dessert
Pomegranate panna cotta
Secco Moscato Dessert Wine
Coffee
A non-alcoholic beverage will also be served at all locations.
Solaire at Hotel Paradox offers Santa Cruz Warriors special promotions
Hotel Paradox staff showing their Warriors love with foam fingers
If you’re a Santa Cruz Warriors fan, you can enjoy a great promotion at the restaurant Solaire—it even includes a free ride to the game!
Solaire Restaurant and Bar is located at Santa Cruz’s Hotel Paradox. Here’s the deal: for all of basketball team Santa Cruz Warriors’ home games, the restaurant is offering a $12 special. You get a draft beer, house burger, foam finger, and a free shuttle ride to and from the game. The burgers and produce Solaire uses are all free range, organic and ground in-house.
The shuttle leaves the Paradox 30 minutes prior to game time every home game. Anyone who dines in Solaire before the game is welcome to the shuttle (you don’t have to order the burger/beer special). The shuttle drops off right in front of the stadium, and will pick up passengers and deliver them right back to the Paradox. Also, Solaire stays open later on game nights for any fans that want to have food and/or drinks after the game.
Solaire Restaurant and Bar at Hotel Paradox, 611 Ocean St, Santa Cruz
(831) 600-4545
www.solairerestaurant.com
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Santa Cruz and San Jose restaurants open on New Year’s Eve 2013, Part 2 of 2
Yesterday I published details on many Santa Cruz area restaurants – plus a couple in Los Gatos — offering dinner on New Year’s Eve 201; here are a few more highlights for Santa Cruz area venues plus a couple in San Jose and Cupertino.
Santa Cruz Area
Solaire at Hotel Paradox
On New Year’s Eve Solaire is doing a multi-course prix fixe dinner with reservations required; call (831) 600-4545. Also, Hotel Paradox is throwing a party; buy tickets online. The party is 10 p.m. – 1 a.m. and costs $25, which includes DJ and dancing plus a champagne toast.
611 Ocean St, Santa Cruz
Soif
Soif is serving a $75 prix fixe multi-course dinner with a $35 optional wine pairing supplement. Dinner starts with an amuse bouche trio: roasted beet, ricotta, & maple-ginger pecans; Kumamoto oyster with apple & cured Meyer lemon; shrimp shumai with mushroom kombu. Customers then get to select their appetizers, entrees and desserts from a delightful array of choices including appetizer shellfish chowder with pork belly confit, radish, and basil; entrée bison striploin with cavolo nero, roasted Chanterelle mushrooms & potato-onion cream, and dessert olive oil cake with Hachiya persimmon. Make reservations by calling (831) 423-2020. Note that Soif will be closed from Jan 1-17 for its annual winter break.
105 Walnut Ave., Santa Cruz
Booka
On New Year’s Eve Booka is offering a prix fixe menu plus live music. With a special four-course dinner, Booka and Executive Chef Eli Epstein promise to take attendees on a culinary tour “…around the Mediterranean Sea that will wow your taste buds, with flavors from Spain, France & Italy.” For reservations and information call (831) 685-9500.
8041 Soquel Drive, Aptos
Hula’s Island Grill and Tiki Room
Hula’s is open on New Year’s Eve serving its regular menu. Plus, Tuesdays is always “Happy Hour all night” and the restaurant is honoring that tradition even though it’s a holiday. Reservations are available for parties of six or more and are recommended; call (831) 426-HULA.
221 Cathcart St., Santa Cruz
Chaminade
Chaminade is offering a New year’s Eve masquerade celebration from 7 p.m. – midnight that includes a “unique dining experience,” a 5-hour open bar, and a DJ and dancing. The price is $125 per person plus tax and gratiuity. Call (831) 475-5600 for reservations.
1 Chaminade Lane, Santa Cruz
Other Santa Cruz area restaurants serving dinner on New Year’s Eve include:
- Laili
- La Posta
- Bittersweet Bistro
- Lago di Como Ristorante
- West End Tap & Kitchen
- Hoffman’s
- Red Restaurant and Bar
- Paradise Beach Grille
- Chocolate
- El Palomar
- Café Mare
- Au Midi
San Jose & nearby
Arcadia at the San Jose Marriott
Steakhouse Arcadia is offering two seatings on New Year’s Eve. The first is $65 and features a three-course menu that begins with amuse bouche “Truffle Royale” with wild mushrooms, herb salad, sherry vinegar and black truffles. It’s followed by choice of cauliflower soup or Dungeness crab salad, a selection from three entrées, and a selection from two dessert choices. The second seating is $89 and has five courses plus amuse. It starts with the same amuse, followed by cauliflower soup AND crab salad, a third course of crispy pork belly, and a choice of entrée and dessert. Call (408) 278-4555 for reservations.
At the San Jose Marriott, 100 W. San Carlos St., San Jose
Arya
Middle Eastern restaurant Arya is serving its regular menu from 4-7 p.m. Then at 8:30 p.m. it’s hosting a New Year’s Eve party which costs $89 and includes a four-course dinner, champagne toast, party favors, belly dancing, and music. Children are welcome at a discount price. Call (408) 996-9606 for reservations or more information.
19930 Stevens Creek Blvd., Cupertino
Left Bank Brasserie
The Parisian-style restaurant is offering service on New Year’s Eve from 11:30 a.m. onward; the last seating is at 11 p.m. For dinner, there will be a la carte options and a children’s menu in addition to a four-course prix fixe $64.50 menu. Entrée choices include surf and turf with pan roasted filet mignon, garlic butter roasted Maine Lobster tail, star anise carrot puree, and braised escarole. Call (408) 984-3500 for reservations.
377 Santana Row #1100, San Jose
Also open on New Year’s Eve:
• Lark Creek Blue on Santana Row – call (408) 244-1244 for reservations. 378 Santana Row #1100, San Jose
• Bella Mia – Choose a 4-course prix fixe $45 menu or order a la carte. Call (408) 280-1993 for reservations. 58 South 1st Street, San Jose
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Santa Cruz and South Bay restaurants open on Christmas, Part 1 of 2
Aquarius in Santa Cruz
It’s the countdown to Christmas; do you have your restaurant reservations yet for Santa Cruz or another South Bay area? Here are details and menu highlights for several venues; I’ll publish a few more tomorrow and also let you know of some restaurants that are closed for a few days over the holidays.
Santa Cruz Restaurants
Aquarius
Located at the Santa Cruz Dream Inn overlooking the Wharf, Aquarius is serving a special 3-course prix fixe menu on Christmas Day from 1-8:30 p.m. The cost is $48; there will be a kids’ menu available. Entrée choices include 12-ounce prime rib with horseradish crème fraiche and roasted root vegetables, and chanterelle mushroom pappardelle. Call (831) 460-5012 for reservations or more information.
175 West Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz
Chaminade offers a Christmas Eve buffet from 5-9 p.m. The cost is $46.95 for adults, $15.95 for kids 6-12, and free for kids under 6. On Christmas Day the restaurant is serving a buffet from noon-6 p.m. The price is $49.95 for adults, $16.95 for kids 6-12, and free for kids under 6. Visit the holiday web site to view menus. Call (831) 475-5600 for reservations.
One Chaminade Lane, Santa Cruz
Hindquarter
The restaurant is open on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. 12/24: Hindquarter is open from 5-9 p.m. 12/25: Hindquarter is open 2-8 p.m. The restaurant is serving the regular menu plus holiday specials. Call (831) 426-7770 for reservations.
303 Soquel Ave, Santa Cruz
Solaire at Hotel Paradox
On Christmas Day Solaire is offering a four-course prix fixe menu from noon-8p.m.: $45 for adults, $35 for seniors, $14 for kids 6 and older, and free for kids 5 and under. For reservations call (831) 600-4545.
611 Ocean St, Santa Cruz
Also note that Hoffman’s is open on Christmas Eve, but closed on Christmas Day. For Christmas specials visit the restaurant’s web site at hoffmanssantacruz.com.
San Jose
LB Steak
The Santana Row restaurant is open on Christmas Eve from 11:30 a.m. – 9 p.m. It’s offering a regular menu at lunch. At dinner there will be a limited regular menu, plus a special $64.50 prix fixe four-course dinner (the prix fixe selections are also available a la carte). Entrée choices include crispy roast pork shoulder with parsnip puree, roasted cauliflower, cipollini onions, and salsa verde. Call (408) 244-1180 for reservations.
334 Santana Row, Suite 1000, San Jose
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Restaurants for Thanksgiving 2013 in Santa Cruz and San Jose
The dining room at Solaire in Santa Cruz
It’s almost Thanksgiving – time to make your reservations if you’re going out to eat! Want to dine in the Santa Cruz or San Jose area? Here are a few to consider for November 28, 2013. I’ll be publishing more options in the next couple days.
Some local restaurants, including Johnny’s Harborside in Santa Cruz Harbor, will be closed.
Santa Cruz, Aptos, Soquel Restaurants
Chaminade offers a Thanksgiving buffet from noon to 6 p.m. The cost is $49.95 for adults, $16.95 for kids 6-12, and free for kids under 6. Customers are encouraged to bring a new, unwrapped toy to benefit the Boys & Girls Club of Santa Cruz County. Toy drive participants will be entered into a drawing to win a 50-minute massage at The Spa, Sunday Brunch for two in the Sunset Restaurant, or an overnight stay for two. Selections include roast Tom Turkey, roast lamb leg, butternut squash ravioli, a seafood assortment, gourmet salads, and pumpkin apple soup.
One Chaminade Lane, Santa Cruz (831) 475-5600
Solaire has a four-course prix fixe Thanksgiving feast from noon – 8 p.m. for $45 (adults), $35 (seniors 65+), and $14 (kids). Children 5 and under are free. Appetizer choices are bacon-wrapped prawns and cheddar grits or wild mushroom risotto; soup/salad choices include roasted butternut soup; entrée choices include Diestel turkey, Kurobuta pork prime rib with herb spaetzle, or artichoke agnolotti. Dessert options include pumpkin pie or triple chocolate cake.
611 Ocean (inside Hotel Paradox), (831) 600-4545
Bittersweet Bistro will have a Thanksgiving buffet. Served from 12:30 – 6 p.m., the price is $53.95, (Adults) $22 (Kids 6-12), or $7 (Kids 5 and Under). Parties that are seated right at 12:30pm receive a 5% discount. The menu includes Roasted Traditional All Natural Turkey with Pan Gravy and Gluten Free Gravy, Slow Roasted Prime Rib with Au Jus and Horseradish crème fraîche, Teriyaki Salmon, Classic Glazed Applewood Smoked Ham, Baked Candied Yams, Persimmon Waldorf Salad, Classic Caesar Salad, Tossed Asian Salad, Maple Roasted Butternut Squash Soup, and a special kids’ buffet table. Desserts include a chocolate fountain and miniature versions of “famous Bittersweet desserts.”
787 Rio Del Mar Boulevard, Aptos (831) 662-9799
Michael’s on Main is serving Thanksgiving dinner from 2-8 p.m. The restaurant will offer a 3-course prix fixe meal for adults ($32) and a special meal for kids 12 and under ($15.95). The adult dinner features choice of soup or salad, entrée choice (four selections are oven-roasted turkey with sides such as garlic mashed potatoes and green beans with caramelized shallots, Osso Bucco, pistachio-crusted salmon, or a vegetarian dish with grilled portobello), and choice of dessert (options include pumpkin cheesecake and cranberry orange bread pudding).
2591 Main Street, Soquel (831) 479-9777
San Jose Restaurants
Maggiano’s on Santana Row is doing a prix fixe Thanksgiving dinner; it’s $36.95 for adults and kids 5-12 are $17.95. The family-style dinner includes bruschetta, salad (families get to choose two of four salads offered), entrée (choose two of three entrees offered, including roast turkey with focaccia sausage stuffing or parmesan-crusted tilapia), side dishes (choose two), and pasta (choose two from selections including four cheese ravioli or gnocchi with Italian sausage). Dessert is also included; choose two from five selections include pumpkin praline cheesecake and tiramisu (I’ve heard the tiramisu is fantastic!). There are also take-out options: choose a $185 full-meal package that serves approximately five people or order a la carte.
3055 Olin Avenue, Ste. 1000 (408) 423-8973
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Restaurants & bars for Halloween 2013 in Santa Cruz and nearby, Part 1
Restaurant 1833 is serving a 4-course prix fixe dinner on Halloween
Halloween is almost here, and there are some spooktacular celebrations occurring—including something for everyone, such as a kid-friendly atmosphere, a fancy prix fixe dinner, or options with dancing and a bar. Here are a few celebrations to consider for Halloween 2013 in Santa Cruz and nearby areas. I’ll be publishing more options in the next day or two.
Santa Cruz & Capitola
Hotel Paradox is hosting a Halloween party from 8 p.m.-1 a.m. Tickets are $25 in advance and include dancing, a DJ, a drink ticket, and access to the snack bar. Buy tickets online.
611 Ocean St., (831) 425-7100
Margaritaville has announced a “costume contest with awesome prizes” for Halloween night, plus drink specials all weekend.
231 Esplanade, Capitola (831) 476-2263
Santa Cruz Wharf Restaurants
Selected Santa Cruz Wharf restaurants are inviting kids dressed in costumes, with their parents, to come trick-or-treating on Halloween. The scheduled time is 4-6 p.m. Read more at the Santa Cruz Wharf site.
Santa Cruz Wharf, (831) 420-5273
Hula’s Santa Cruz invites you to celebrate Halloween with a Spooky Pumpkin Tini, and at Charlie Hong Kong Halloween means it’s Thai Butternut Squash Soup season. CHK started serving the delicious soup on Oct 26 with local Windmill Farms organic heirloom butternuts; the annual season lasts until January or February depending on the squash harvest.
A few Santa Cruz restaurants are closed on Halloween, including Bittersweet Café and Bistro.
Monterey
Restaurant 1833, located in the Stokes Adobe House which some say is haunted, is hosting a fabulous party on October 31, 2013. Chef Levi Mezick will be offering a special Halloween four-course prix fixe menu in the dining room featuring Pumpkin Soup with pumpernickel bread crumbs; Beet Salad with hazelnuts, duck prosciutto and bulls blood; Braised Pork Cheek with cranberry puree, mustard greens and banyuls; Pan Roasted Rainbow Trout with haricot vert, fingerling potato and herb butter. Dinner will end early…from there, Restaurant 1833 has partnered with 831 Magazine for an unforgettable night of live music, cocktails on tap, and of course, ghosts and costumes.
Price: The four-course prix fixe menu is $40 per person excluding tax and gratuity. The Halloween party is free before 9:00pm with an escalating cover charge starting at $10.
500 Hartnell St., Monterey, (831) 643-1833.
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Celebrate Independence Day 2013 with a poolside barbecue at Santa Cruz’s Solaire
Cooking it up at Solaire in Santa Cruz
Celebrate Independence Day 2013 at Santa Cruz’s Hotel Paradox, which boasts the fabulous Solaire Restaurant and Bar.
Solaire is hosting an all-American barbecue from 11 a.m. – 10 p.m. on Thursday, July 4th. It’s $25 for a “day pool pass” with a full plate of BBQ plus a chocolate brownie sundae, or $80 for a family 4-pack with pool passes & BBQ plates/desserts. Food will be served all day There will also be $4 draft beers, and DJ Magic Touch spinning on the Pool Deck from 12 -3:30 p.m. From 4 -8 p.m. there will be live music by West Coast Soul Band.
Here are more details on food & beer:
Food Menu
- Field Greens Salad With Assorted Dressings
- Napa Cabbage Coleslaw
- Paradox Potato Salad
- Grilled Corn On The Cob
- Barbeque Baked Beans
- Grilled Summer Vegetables
- Pulled Pork Sandwich
- House Ground Hamburger
- Herb-Mustard Grilled Chicken
- Chocolate Brownie Sundae
$4 Draft Beers
- Santa Cruz Mountains Pale Ale
- Santa Cruz Ale Works IPA
- Firestone Solace
- Scrimshaw
- 21st Amendment Black in Black
- Sierra Nevada Pale Ale
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