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Santa Cruz

Alderwood Santa Cruz, the city's only Michelin-recognized restaurant, closed its doors in January 2025 after six years of operation. The closure followed a period of challenges, including the abrupt departure of founding chef Jeffrey Wall in March 2024 and the earlier closure of its sister restaurant, Alderwood Pacific, in September 2023. Despite these setbacks, Alderwood Santa Cruz was known for its innovative menu featuring locally sourced ingredients and wood-fired cooking techniques.

Alderwood Santa Cruz: A Culinary Journey Remembered 

Nestled in the heart of Santa Cruz at 155 Walnut Avenue, Alderwood Santa Cruz was once a shining star in California's vibrant dining scene. Renowned as the city's only Michelin-recognized restaurant, this culinary gem offered a seasonally driven menu that masterfully blended coastal influences with wood-fired cooking and subtle French undertones. Over six transformative years, Alderwood carved a unique niche for food lovers seeking an elevated yet approachable gourmet experience.

Alderwood's menu was a celebration of locally sourced ingredients, with a focus on sustainability and flavor. Guests delighted in dishes featuring responsibly sourced oysters, expertly aged beef cuts, and innovative desserts that pushed the boundaries of traditional flavors. The restaurant’s wood-fired cooking technique added a smoky depth, perfectly complementing the fresh coastal produce. Whether you were a fan of vegetarian fare or a meat enthusiast, Alderwood crafted dishes that satisfied diverse palates with creativity and finesse.

Guests consistently praised the restaurant’s inviting ambiance — a modern setting with thoughtful lighting and elegant table settings that created a relaxing yet refined atmosphere. The service was described as attentive and genuinely caring, enhancing the overall dining experience. Many highlighted the culinary team's passion, particularly the founding chef Jeffrey Wall, whose departure in early 2024 marked a turning point for the establishment. Despite some service inconsistencies noted by patrons in its later phase, Alderwood retained a loyal following that cherished its culinary innovation and warm vibe.

 reflect the restaurant’s journey—while many praised its food and atmosphere, others noted service challenges, especially after management changes. Ultimately, Alderwood Santa Cruz closed its doors in January 2025, following a period of upheavals including the closure of its sister restaurant, Alderwood Pacific, in late 2023. Although no official reason for the closure was publicly given, the community remembers Alderwood fondly as a beacon of innovative coastal dining.

 No, Alderwood Santa Cruz closed in January 2025.

What was the reason for Alderwood Santa Cruz's closure?

 The restaurant did not specify a reason for its closure, but it followed a period of challenges, including the departure of its founding chef and the closure of its sister restaurant.

What was the menu like at Alderwood Santa Cruz?

 Alderwood Santa Cruz offered a menu featuring locally sourced ingredients, wood-fired cooking, and dishes like responsibly sourced oysters, aged beef cuts, and innovative desserts.

North America

United States

Nestled in the heart of Santa Cruz, **Alderwood Santa Cruz** is a culinary gem that captivates with its **coastal, wood-fired cuisine** infused with French undertones. As you step through the doors at 155 Walnut Avenue, the warm ambiance envelops you, inviting you to indulge in a dining experience that is both sophisticated and approachable. The restaurant's commitment to seasonally driven ingredients shines through in every dish, making it a must-visit for food enthusiasts and casual diners alike.

The menu at Alderwood is a celebration of flavors, with standout dishes that leave a lasting impression. The **bavette steak**, perfectly seared and served with a rich sauce, is a carnivore's dream, while the **beef tartare** dazzles with its freshness and delightful mustard seed pairing. Each bite is a testament to the chef's artistry, showcasing a balance of textures and flavors that elevate the dining experience.

Grilled avocado, rated 9/10, offers a unique twist on a familiar favorite.

Grilled mushrooms, also receiving a 9/10, are a must-try for their exceptional preparation.

Duck leg confit paired with barbecued carrots is a highlight of the three-course tasting menu.

Alderwood is not just about the food; it’s an experience. The modern ambiance, complemented by a well-curated bar, sets the stage for a memorable evening. The restaurant's commitment to quality is evident in every detail, from the lighting to the table settings, creating an atmosphere that feels both relaxed and refined.

Located at 155 Walnut Avenue, Alderwood is perfectly situated for those looking to explore the vibrant Santa Cruz area. After a delightful meal, visitors can stroll along the nearby beaches or visit the iconic Santa Cruz Boardwalk, making it an ideal spot for a full day of adventure.

What is Alderwood known for?  The restaurant is celebrated for its seasonally driven, wood-fired cuisine with French influences.

Why visit?  Alderwood offers a unique dining experience with a focus on high-quality ingredients and innovative dishes.

What's nearby?  The restaurant is close to beautiful beaches and the Santa Cruz Boardwalk, perfect for a post-meal stroll.

Whether you're a local or just passing through, **Alderwood Santa Cruz** promises a dining experience that delights the senses. Come savor the flavors, enjoy the ambiance, and create lasting memories. We invite you to visit us today and discover why we're one of Santa Cruz's premier dining destinations!

Seasonally driven restaurant offering coastal, wood-fired cuisine with French undertones.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNmcXJLMzh3RRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJNzvAoWxBjoARBmr7mV-lPUM/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNmcXJLMzh3RRAB

Best dining experience in years. The head chef is amazing and the staff was incredible. Tasty dishes and great atmosphere.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNwaWVId0dBEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJNzvAoWxBjoARBmr7mV-lPUM/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNwaWVId0dBEAE

Do yourself a favor and visit this lovely restaurant. The service is unmatched. The staff truly cares about your experience and the atmosphere . The food is absolutely amazing, well balanced, – everything we tasted melted in other mouths. The atmosphere was fantastic, as were the lighting and table settings. I felt relaxed and picked up on all of the wonderful vibes from the chef to each and every member of the crew.

Absolutely the best tasting menu so far.

My phone was stolen, and all images and names of meals were lost but I was able to recover pictures from my google drive.

Enjoy.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNvdUpmMnVBRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJNzvAoWxBjoARBmr7mV-lPUM/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNvdUpmMnVBRRAB

1/2025. Heard they have announced closure. Not surprised.  The horrible new manager - talk about damaged goods - put herself above patrons and experience.  Her claim of Michelin starred restaurant bonafides was clearly - if true - coincidental.
Will miss the excellent food and experiences enjoyed in its original incarnation.
ps - if anyone ever asks you if you want a Manhattan up or on the rocks, leave.

2024:  Oh, how the mighty have fallen. Details to follow, but as a diehard fan of this place from the start, I do not see how they can succeed with the current floor management.  Single worst upper management (presumed) experience of my life.  Almost comical.

Menu and kitchen has changed, please disregard previous reviews.
Excellent all around. Fantastic cocktails, great food. Easily the most polished place in SC, clearly drawing on the experience of having restaurants elsewhere. Can’t wait to go back.

Been back several times, food continues to be superlative.

The Western Bacon Cheeseburger with mushrooms added on is the best. Ever. Props to Alex for suggesting this.

Update 2/2024  Still excellent. We tried the inaugural Wednesday 3-course tasting menu, and I have to say I felt as though it was a good value. Salad and a popover, main course, dessert for $65.  I thought the duck leg confit was excellent, and paired very well with the barbecued carrots.  My wife and a friend had the mushroom rigatoni which although had good flavor, was about 30 seconds shy of being al dente everyone agreed.  So, that dish would have received a better rating if the pasta was cooked correctly.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNfa0tLV2l3RRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJNzvAoWxBjoARBmr7mV-lPUM/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNfa0tLV2l3RRAB

Very nice restaurant, modern ambiance with a nice bar in the dining area. The food was good, we had the pork chop, pesto cavatelli and broccolini. Definitely $$$

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNqcDdtYmlBRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJNzvAoWxBjoARBmr7mV-lPUM/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNqcDdtYmlBRRAB

On my third visit to this gem in Santa Cruz, I found the culinary experience as impressive as ever. The bavette steak scored a 8/10 served in a generous portion, though the sauce could have been thicker. The beef tartare was a standout, earning an 8.5/10 for its freshness and the delightful pairing with mustard seeds. The grilled avocado, rated at 9/10, showcased innovation, offering a unique twist to a familiar favorite. Similarly, the grilled mushrooms, also receiving a 9/10, were exceptional and a must-try for their unique preparation. The desserts, while satisfactory, didn't stand out as much, so they got a 7.5/10. Overall, this restaurant continues to excel, making it one of the best dining spots in Santa Cruz.
A definite go-to for anyone craving quality and creativity.

Alderwood Santa Cruz: Waterfront Dining & Culinary Delights

Alderwood Santa Cruz was the city's only Michelin-recognized restaurant, known for its innovative menu and wood-fired cooking techniques. It closed in January 2025 after six years of operation.

Nestled at 155 Walnut Avenue, Alderwood Santa Cruz has captivated its patrons with an exquisite blend of coastal, wood-fired cuisine infused with French undertones. Over the span of its six-year operation, it not only became a culinary landmark in Santa Cruz but also earned its place in the prestigious Michelin Guide, making it the only Michelin-recognized restaurant in the city.

Alderwood Santa Cruz opened in downtown Santa Cruz.

Alderwood Santa Cruz received recognition in the Michelin Guide.

Alderwood Pacific, a sister restaurant, opened but closed in September 2023.

Founding chef Jeffrey Wall departed in March.

Alderwood Santa Cruz closed its doors in January.

The story of Alderwood is not just about fine dining; it reflects the broader culinary evolution in Santa Cruz. Renowned for its innovative menu and skilled chefs, the restaurant left a lasting impression on both locals and visitors alike. Although Alderwood Santa Cruz closed its doors in early 2025, its legacy as a culinary treasure in the city will be cherished and remembered.

Savor farm-to-table delights at Alderwood in Santa Cruz! Enjoy fresh ingredients, cozy ambiance, and unique local flavors. Book your table today!

Alderwood Santa Cruz: Farm-to-Table Dining Bliss

Santa Cruz County

Alderwood Santa Cruz

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Santa Cruz at 155 Walnut Avenue, 

 welcomes food enthusiasts seeking a refined dining experience infused with coastal charm and wood-fired delicacies. This gem masterfully blends French culinary undertones with Californian seasonal ingredients, crafting a menu that is both innovative and deeply satisfying.

At Alderwood Santa Cruz, every visit is an immersive journey into taste and atmosphere. Guests rave about the skilled head chef whose creations are described as "the best tasting menu so far," featuring dishes that melt delightfully with every bite. The restaurant's modern ambiance is enhanced by a thoughtfully designed bar nestled within the dining area, perfect for savoring expertly crafted cocktails alongside your meal.

This seasonally driven menu showcases dishes like the Western Bacon Cheeseburger with mushrooms, hailed as a top-tier indulgence, alongside exquisite options such as bavette steak and beef tartare praised for their freshness and generous portions. Vegetarian diners will appreciate the thoughtful inclusion of dishes that celebrate local produce with a French-inspired twist, ensuring a well-balanced culinary adventure.

 in a modern, inviting setting perfect for groups and special occasions.

 expertly paired to complement the vibrant menu flavors.

 that bring freshness and sustainability to your plate.

Alderwood Santa Cruz caters to discerning diners with amenities such as restroom facilities, NFC payment options, and the availability of takeout to enjoy their culinary delights at home. While outdoor seating and live music are not part of the current experience, the restaurant excels as a polished venue for dinner, offering an intimate setting without distractions. Note that it is not suited for children or casual sports viewing, emphasizing a refined atmosphere for adults and groups alike.

This culinary hotspot distinguishes itself through a dedication to seasonality and thoughtful composition, delivering a memorable coastal dining experience with French elegance. The glowing reviews from locals and visitors alike praise the impeccable service and the chef's creativity, making Alderwood Santa Cruz a must-visit destination for anyone eager to indulge in sophisticated, wood-fired cuisine in California's vibrant food scene.

California

Discover Alderwood Santa Cruz, a renowned restaurant in downtown Santa Cruz, CA, offering innovative wood-fired cuisine with stunning local ingredients. Book your table now!

Alderwood Santa Cruz: Michelin-Recognized Dining Experience in Santa Cruz

Experience the culinary excellence at Alderwood Santa Cruz, known for its creative menu, wood-fired dishes, and locally sourced ingredients in Santa Cruz, California.

Explore Alderwood Santa Cruz: A Unique Culinary Journey in Santa Cruz

Learn about Alderwood Santa Cruz, the only Michelin-recognized restaurant in Santa Cruz, celebrated for its innovative, locally sourced cuisine and exceptional ambiance.

Alderwood Santa Cruz: Waterfront Dining & Culinary Delights

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