I was invited to Aquarius Restaurant for dinner. I was under no obligation to post a review. No compensation has been received. All opinions are my own.
Every now & then, you find a real gem of a restaurant. One so special, that you almost don’t want to share it with anyone else. Aquarius Restaurant, is that kinda place! It’s located just past the Santa Cruz Boardwalk, in the Dream Inn. 
Aquarius Restaurant offers fabulous oceanfront dining just off the beach in Santa Cruz, CA, and is locally renowned as one of Santa Cruz’s top dining destinations. The restaurant and lounge is truly a “window box on the sea”, allowing guests to experience panoramic views that stretch north to one of the nation’s top surf spots – Steamer Lane, south to the majestic Monterey Bay and Peninsula and East to the Santa Cruz Mountains. The cool and breezy interior is especially romantic at night when the moon casts its glow onto the sea. The California Coastal Cuisine is inspired by fresh and local products and produce, including local sustainable seafood, complemented by a regional wine list. Aquarius is a proud supporter of Fish Watch program, promoting sustainable seafood and clean oceans.
First, let’s talk ambiance, shall we?! This restaurant has it in abundance. There are tables for large parties, and cozy little spaces perfect for enjoying a romantic meal with your honey. 
It’s right on the ocean! You talk about an impressive view… OH MY GOODNESS! The pic above was taken at night. Let’s take a little looksie at the day time views below …
Can’t you just see yourself sitting there, enjoying a fantastic meal? And speaking of meals, Aquarius does not disappoint!
I was there on a Monday night, and they have a special promo running on Monday nights. It’s called Homemade Mondays – the prices are excellent and the food is ridiculous! And by ridiculous, I mean DELICIOUS! Here’s a look at the menu for the night I ate there. Keep in mind, the menu does change. 
Do you see those prices? You can’t beat that. Those prices, that view, and this food! 
You gotta believe me when I tell you this food is everything! Each entree was flavorful and cooked to perfection. The chicken wasn’t greasy, like some places. It had a good crunch to it- the mashed potatoes… let’s just say there were none left on the plate!
That Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo was seasoned just right- the shrimp nice & tender. Those Braised Short Ribs- we were all but fighting over them! That meat just melted in my mouth. The Polenta was mighty tasty.
The Chef at Aquarius definitely has the Midas Touch – our meal was pure gold. Everything was fresh and you could really tell it was made with love.
So, once we were done with our meal-we were asked if we wanted to try a dessert or two. No meal’s complete without dessert, right?! Hold on to your seats, this is gonna be good! First up, Cheesecake-it was rich-just like cheesecake should be. 
Apple Galette A La Mode was next- I think it was my favorite. So much flavor packed in there- so yummy! 
Last, but not least- Chocolate Cake! Decadent- you betcha! 
I cannot say enough about the staff at Aquarius. They went above and beyond to make sure we had everything we wanted and/or needed. Our waiter was extremely knowledgable about the menu, and told us how each entree was made. Everyone at the restaurant was uber polite and professional.
Kudos to all the staff and management- you have a very well oiled machine in Aquarius. I was so impressed with the view, the food and the staff. Can’t wait to get back for another visit and to taste some of the other menu items.
If YOU’D like to visit Aquarius Restaurant, the address is:
175 West Cliff Drive
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
Call (831) 460-5012 to make a reservation. You might want to check out the LIVE Jazz every Thursday & Saturday night.
Let me know when you visit, I’d love to hear what you ate!
