01
Best overall pick
Trout Farm
East Zayante Road, Felton • Revived Mountain Roadhouse With Poolside Bar • Destination For A Full Day By The Pool
A classic Zayante hangout where you can swim, sip, and linger over hearty comfort food in the redwoods.
Trout Farm is where locals send friends who want the full Zayante experience: a vintage roadhouse vibe, a big outdoor pool, and unfussy burgers, salads, and shareable plates. It works just as well for a lazy afternoon by the water as it does for a casual night out with a big group. Go when you’ve got time to settle in and make an occasion of it.
02
Best for laid-back pizza night
Redwood Pizzeria
Downtown Felton • Laid-Back Mountain Pizzeria And Taproom • Go-To For Big Groups And Families
Thin-crust pies, generous toppings, and local beers make this Felton staple an easy crowd-pleaser.
Redwood Pizzeria feels like the town’s living room, with kids darting between tables, friends catching up over pitchers, and the game on in the background. The menu leans classic—think pesto, veggie, and meat-lover combos—with enough room for custom orders. It’s the spot you pick when nobody wants to cook and everyone wants to leave happy.
03
Top breakfast stop
Rocky's Cafe
Felton Town Center • Classic Roadside Breakfast And Lunch Café • Morning Fuel Before Redwood Adventures
Hearty scrambles, big pancakes, and bottomless coffee anchor this no-frills local favorite.
Rocky’s is the kind of place where the servers know half the room by name and the coffee hits the table fast. Portions are generous, the menu covers all the diner basics, and there’s usually a line of hikers and cyclists fueling up before heading into the forest. Come for a relaxed, old-school breakfast and linger over that second cup of coffee.
04
Best for date night
Casa Nostra
Ben Lomond Village • Rustic Italian Restaurant In The Redwoods • Romantic Choice For Handmade Pasta And Wine
Twinkling lights, a cozy dining room, and hearty Italian plates make this a standout for a slower, more polished meal.
Casa Nostra pairs rich, comforting Italian cooking with a setting that feels far from the highway—especially if you score a table outside among the trees. The menu leans on housemade pastas, risottos, and classic mains, backed by a thoughtful wine list. It’s a natural pick for anniversaries, out-of-town guests, or anyone who wants a little ceremony with their supper.
05
Lively local hangout
Malone's Grille
Scotts Valley • Casual American Grill And Bar With Patio • Solid Choice For Burgers, Beers, And Live Music
A bustling grill known for its big burgers, tap list, and busy patio just down the hill from the Zayante area.
Malone’s feels like the neighborhood’s unofficial clubhouse, especially on warm evenings when the patio fills up. The menu hits all the pub-grill classics—burgers, sandwiches, and hearty salads—served in portions that satisfy after a day on the trails. Check the schedule if you like a side of live music or a game on TV with your pint.