01
Best overall pick
Bruno's Bar & Grill
Scotts Valley Drive Corridor • Lively American Bar And Grill • Go-To Crowd-Pleaser
A big-hearted local hub with burgers, wings, and plenty of TVs, Bruno’s is where Scotts Valley gathers for games, groups, and weeknight dinners.
Bruno’s hits that sweet spot between family-friendly restaurant and full-on sports bar, with a menu that runs from stacked burgers to salads and tailgate-style appetizers. The multi-level space, rooftop deck when the weather cooperates, and regular events make it feel like a community living room. It’s the place you recommend when no one can agree on what they’re in the mood for.
02
Best comfort Thai
Kao Sook Thai Cuisine
Mount Hermon Road Strip • Cozy Thai Restaurant • Reliable Weeknight Standby
Kao Sook serves generously portioned, flavor-packed Thai classics in a relaxed setting that draws steady local traffic.
From fragrant curries to bright, fresh noodle dishes, Kao Sook leans into familiar Thai comfort food without feeling generic. Spice levels are adjustable, and the staff is quick to steer newcomers toward house favorites like pad see ew or panang curry. It’s the kind of place where takeout is just as popular as lingering over a quiet dine-in meal.
03
Best sushi choice
Otoro Sushi
Near Scotts Valley Town Center • Modern Japanese Sushi Bar • Best For Date Night
Otoro Sushi pairs pristine fish with creative rolls and a polished yet relaxed room, making it a step up from your average strip-mall sushi joint.
The menu balances clean, classic nigiri with inventive specialty rolls that still respect the fish rather than burying it. Service is attentive but unhurried, and the sake list is better than you might expect in a small town. It’s a smart pick when you want something a little special without crossing the hill or driving into downtown Santa Cruz.
04
Best breakfast and brunch
Auntie Mame's
Old Scotts Valley Center • Homey Breakfast Diner • Morning Local Favorite
Auntie Mame’s is a no-fuss breakfast institution known for generous portions, personable servers, and classic diner comfort.
Expect bottomless coffee, crispy hash browns, and the kind of omelets and scrambles that keep regulars coming back for decades. The dining room is compact and can get busy on weekends, but the bustle is part of the charm. It’s where locals fuel up before heading to the trails or down to the beach for the day.
05
Best for beers and bites
Laughing Monk Brewing & Gastropub
Mount Hermon Road Gateway • Craft Brewery Gastropub • Best For Groups And Happy Hour
Laughing Monk combines house-brewed beers with an elevated pub menu in a bright, social space that feels tailor-made for lingering.
Rotating taps showcase the brewery’s own IPAs, lagers, and seasonal releases, while the kitchen turns out thoughtful versions of burgers, shareable snacks, and hearty mains. The roomy layout and casual energy make it easy to accommodate mixed-age groups and last-minute meetups. It’s an especially good call when you want to sample local beer without sacrificing food quality.