01
Best overall pick
The Emerald Mallard
South Felton Along Highway 9 • Laid-Back Burger-And-Beer Garden • Best For Burgers And Craft Drinks
A relaxed roadside spot where smash burgers, fries, and local drinks are the main event.
Set just off Highway 9, The Emerald Mallard feels like a modern take on a mountain roadhouse, with picnic tables, string lights, and a compact menu done really well. The smash burgers and fries are the clear draw, backed up by rotating taps and easygoing counter service. It’s an ideal first stop if you want something casual, satisfying, and distinctly Felton after a hike or river day.
02
Best redwood views
Cowboy Bar & Grill
Zayante Area Hills Above Felton • Rustic Western Grill And Saloon • Scenic Deck Pick
Hearty comfort food served on a big deck overlooking the redwoods and hillside.
Cowboy Bar & Grill leans fully into its name, with cowboy memorabilia inside and a broad wooden deck outside that looks straight into the trees. The menu runs to burgers, tri-tip sandwiches, ribs, and other grill favorites, plus solid sides and big salads. It’s a go-to when you want a laid-back mountain feel, a cold drink, and a view that reminds you you’re in the Santa Cruz Mountains.
03
Best for date night
Casa Nostra
Ben Lomond Village Along Highway 9 • Rustic Italian Restaurant With Garden Patio • Cozy Italian Getaway
Warm, candle-lit Italian in a woodsy setting, with housemade pasta and a welcoming bar.
A few minutes north of Felton in Ben Lomond, Casa Nostra feels like a hillside trattoria tucked among the redwoods. The kitchen focuses on familiar Italian comfort—think housemade pasta, braised meats, and thin-crust pizzas—done with enough care to feel special without being formal. Grab a table on the heated patio for a date night, or settle into the bar for a glass of wine and a couple of shared plates.
04
Best for groups
Malone's Grille
Scotts Valley Town Center • Lively American Grill And Bar • Game-Day And Gathering Spot
A big, friendly grill with a roomy patio, comfort food menu, and plenty of TVs for sports.
Malone’s Grille in nearby Scotts Valley is the place to go when you have a crew and need something easy that still feels local. Burgers, sandwiches, tacos, and salads cover the bases, with a full bar and rotating beers to keep everyone happy. The outdoor seating and relaxed, sports-bar energy make it especially good for families, post-game meetups, and casual celebrations.
05
Best for sushi
Otoro Sushi
Scotts Valley Near Mount Hermon Road • Casual Japanese Sushi Bar • Sushi Lover’S Choice
A popular neighborhood sushi bar known for fresh fish, generous rolls, and friendly service.
When you’re staying in Felton but craving sushi, Otoro in Scotts Valley is the reliable move. The menu hits all the standards—nigiri, sashimi, specialty rolls—plus cooked Japanese dishes for anyone less into raw fish. It gets busy at peak times for a reason, so plan ahead a bit and enjoy a meal that feels more urban while still just a quick drive from the redwoods.