A Santa Cruz dining favorite, Johnny’s Harborside offers a casually chic setting and spectacular views. Overlooking the Santa Cruz Yacht Harbor and Monterey Bay, this Santa Cruz seafood restaurant invites patrons to dine on well-crafted preparations of California cuisine.

Custom Seafood Dishes and Contemporary Fare

Proudly upholding its motto, “Fresh Catch Made Your Way,” Johnny’s Harborside Restaurant in Santa Cruz presents the opportunity to select from three to six varieties of freshly caught seafood and to determine how each dish is prepared. Each is available broiled, sautéed or blackened, then served with one of their sauces and “sidekicks.” The accompaniment options can include the Pacific Rim style, where the fish is served in a spicy coconut peanut sauce along with stir fried vegetables and steamed rice; the Mediterranean way, which includes tomatoes, olives, artichokes, roasted potatoes, feta cheese and grilled pita bread; the Southwestern way, where the catch is served with salsa fresca and polenta-stuffed passila; and the simple way, in which the fish is lightly seasoned and served with potatoes, polenta or seasonal vegetables.

In addition to the seafood options, the menu at this Santa Cruz restaurant includes a robust selection of starters & salads, as well as delicious sandwiches and burgers (including a marinated Portobello mushroom sandwich for diners interested in a Santa Cruz vegetarian option). Rounding off the menu are the Harborside Signature Selections, which include crispy half chicken, wild mushroom stroganoff and whiskey braised short ribs. Patrons can linger after dinner with one of the decadent deserts, a glass of ruby port or tawny, or even a special after dinner cocktail.

Specialty Drinks and Happy Hour in Santa Cruz

The bar at Johnny's Harborside in Santa Cruz Boat Harbor is a lively destination, commonly frequented by locals and boat owners in search of expertly mixed specialty cocktails. The seafood is so fresh that many of the local fisherman eat here as well. A lengthy list of specialty drinks, unique vodkas and single malt scotches promises something to please almost any palate. Johnny’s also features an approachable wine list populated mostly by California wines, enlivened with a selection or two from Argentina, South Africa, Australia or Spain. Additionally, there are several sake options at this Santa Cruz seafood restaurant.

Dining for Every Occasion

Johnny’s Harborside boasts an atmosphere that’s as conducive to family dining as it is to a date. Beautiful views, excellent service and a bright, seaside setting can make every moment seem perfect. For larger groups planning a banquet or special event in Santa Cruz, Johnny’s can accommodate. Wedding rehearsals, birthdays, anniversaries and even corporate parties will be treated to a fresh and fun dining experience at this Santa Cruz dining staple. Banquet service is available for parties of 20 or more, Monday through Thursday evenings, and parties of 15 or more are welcome for lunch and afternoon events seven days a week.

View Johnny's Harborside Catering Menu

Weekly Specials

Monday

• $20 Gourmet (3 course meal with a sample glass of wine)

Tuesday/Thursday
T&T Nights, 3pm-close

• Specialty drinks featuring Tres Generations
• $3 tacos (fish, steak or chicken)

Wednesday
Absolut Madness, 3pm-close

• $6 drink specials

Saturday-Sunday
Brunch, 10am-2pm

• Bloody Mary & Mimosa Specials

Sunday
Live music, 6:30pm-8:30pm

Monday-Friday
Happy Hour, 3pm-6pm

• $3-$6 Specials