01
Best overall pick
Cowboy Bar and Grill
Felton – Highway 9 • Rustic Mountain Roadhouse • Lively Local Favorite
A bustling Felton standby for big burgers, tri-tip, and cold beers on a deck tucked into the redwoods.
Just over the hill from Lompico, Cowboy Bar and Grill feels like the classic Highway 9 stop: wood-paneled bar inside, picnic tables under towering trees outside. The menu leans hearty—think burgers, sandwiches, and steaks—so it’s a natural fit after a hike or a long day on the river. Go early on sunny weekends if you want a table on the deck without a wait.
02
Top date-night choice
Casa Nostra
Ben Lomond Village • Italian Trattoria Among The Redwoods • Romantic Dinner Spot
A warmly lit Italian restaurant in Ben Lomond known for handmade pastas, rustic mains, and a surprisingly deep wine list.
Casa Nostra turns a quiet stretch of Ben Lomond into a little slice of Italy, complete with twinkly lights and a tree-shaded patio. Locals come for the fresh pastas, veal and seafood specials, and the kind of service that remembers your favorites. It’s one of the best bets nearby when you want a slower, more polished meal without heading all the way into Santa Cruz.
03
Casual family go-to
Redwood Pizza
Downtown Felton • Laid-Back Pizza And Pasta Joint • Best For Families
Easygoing Felton pizzeria with generous pies, pastas, and a relaxed, kid-friendly vibe right off Highway 9.
Redwood Pizza is the kind of place where muddy hiking boots and kids fresh from the swimming hole are the norm. The menu sticks to crowd-pleasers—thin-crust pizzas, calzones, pastas, and big salads—and portions are built for sharing. It’s a practical choice when you want something satisfying, close to Lompico, and low on fuss.
04
Old-school mountain classic
Scopazzi's Restaurant and Lounge
Downtown Boulder Creek • Historic Italian-American Restaurant • Special-Occasion Pick
A long-running Boulder Creek institution pairing classic Italian-American dishes with a loungey, old-California feel.
Scopazzi's has been around long enough to feel woven into the fabric of the San Lorenzo Valley, with white tablecloths, big portions, and a bar that locals treat as a second living room. The menu runs to old-school favorites—steaks, veal, pastas, and seafood—served in a series of cozy dining rooms and patios. It’s a strong choice when you want a celebratory dinner without driving over the hill.
05
Best sushi nearby
Otoro Sushi
Scotts Valley • Modern Japanese And Sushi Bar • Best For Sushi Lovers
Polished Scotts Valley sushi spot known for fresh fish, creative rolls, and a friendly, efficient staff.
When you’re craving sushi near Lompico, Otoro in Scotts Valley is worth the short drive. The fish quality stands out for the area, with an array of sashimi, nigiri, and playful specialty rolls alongside bento boxes and cooked dishes. It works equally well for a quick roll at the counter or a longer sit-down dinner with friends.