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Café Cruz

Café Cruz is a favorite dining place for area residents who find its atmosphere , menu selections and conbenial staff an ideal combination for enjoying a casual meal or celebrating a special occasion. The restaurant's dining areas range from white tabletop service in the main dining room to a more relaxed setting in the outdoor patio and garden. These elements, combined with the chef;s tasty and imaginiative creations and attentive service, blend to make pleasurable dinign experiences at Café Cruz.

Chef Steve Wilson has crafted a distinctive gourmet style that he refers to as "New American Cuisine." His approach highlights the flavors and cooking styles found in North America's diverse cultures and regions. He uses the best fresh organic produce, sustainable seafood and source-verified meats and fowl, along with distinctive products created by area bakers, cheese makers and other local food suppliers.

Steve's culinary career began as a teenager when he moved to the Santa Cruz area. His early experiences in local kitchens sparked a passion for blending regional flavors with locally harvested foods. Over the years he has perfected his technique to embrace contemporary global cuisines.

Jerry Neilsen manages the restaurant's daily operations ensuring the high standards or service offered to his guests. His interest and talents in restaurant management developed when living in Hawaii, where he held various positions in the food service industry. Jerry returned to his native Santa Cruz in 1967 to open the Grapesteak, which he owned and operated until 1986. Jerry and Steve brought their respective talents to the table in 1994 with the concept of Café Cruz. The restaurant opened in 1995.

The partners' commitment to the community goes far beyond nourishing the appetites of restaurant patrons. They are avid supporters of area schools, and the programs of various community organizations. Steve was the recipient of Second Harvest's 2003 Harvest Hunger Fighters Award, and Jerry is a foudning director of Santa Cruz Cancer Benefit Group's Spring Forward Against Cancer.