Seabright Social

4 stars for the food and service. Get the clam chowder! 16 of us came by with a reservation on a Friday evening. We were seated comfortably at two outdoor tables. They have cards and boardgames to pass the time. Service was a little slow for the second table, and an early order of sweet potato fries and a later order of tea weren’t entered (but the fries were given to us complimentarily at the end, which was nice). My husband and I shared the $10 Boston clam chowder, which was creamy and delicious. I ordered the $18 shrimp and grits as my entree, which I would rate a 3.5 out of 5: the shrimp was a bit tough, and the spicy Cajun sauce was good though salty—definitely mix the sauce into the grits. Overall, a good experience for a group our size!

Review based on 2 visits. First off, anything that comes from the fryer is top notch. This is no small thing, as I would argue that the majority of places do at best a pretty good job, leaving things just a bit greasy still and not totally crispy. Their fries (garlic and regular and sweet potato) are perfection, and the onion rings are the best I’ve had short of fancy tempura-style. The smash burger is very good. I think the patties could be a bit thinner or maybe just use one, to get that perfect meat to toppings ratio, but that’s a personal preference. The ribeye steak sandwich was also superb. Oh, and if you like grits, these are second only to Brenda’s in SF / Oakland. Great beer selection (St. Adarius rotating tap), have yet to try a cocktail. Will definitely be back!

Very impressed w/ location, the vibe & customer service. Love that it's dog 🐕 friendly. The furry hamburger patty & furry chicken patty looked amazing, dogs cleaned their plates 🍽 😋. I enjoyed the social burger w/ garlic fries. Also the drinks here were on point. Beer 🍺 🍻 & spitzers were awesome 👌 👏. Will definitely come back again. Outside seating is where it's at. Very clean comfortable looking place.

They were busy and they were short staffed, which nowadays is like saying the sky is blue. Everybody is short staffed and our crowd was expecting the worst and preparing to be patient. After a little wait, during which the manager came down out of his tower to chip in, the service was beyond expectations. Friendly, responsive, fun. There is a kind of ease of being, when in the company of long lost family, like you can finally let your breath out, even though you didn’t know you were holding it. And then to have that reunion in a place that welcomes you not only with good service, but with excellent food is a treasure beyond compare. I had a Cuban beef and ham sammich that was both unique and sublime. The bread was perfect, toasted to crispness but not burned or hard. Must be a special machine because I’ve never made toast that good in my life. And then there was the beef and ham! Not some BS, off the shelf packaged junk here, but something special… something I’d expect to be served on its own plate, with its own name, an entree on a sammich! It felt earthy, but decadent, like a feast on a safari. Everyone at the table reported good food and good drink and it all looked tempting as hell. Santa Cruz may have changed a lot since I was here so many years ago, but not all change is bad.

We took a quick overnight trip to Santa Cruz, and were hoping to find some cool spots for drinks and bites. I had searched for a fun brewery or taproom through Instagram, and found Seabright Social. This place was so good, we came back twice. Saturday afternoon we had the fish and chips, which were probably some of the best fish and chips we’ve had in a while. They were perfectly cooked; very crispy, and didn’t get soggy. I ordered the Paloma cocktail, and it was one of the best frozen cocktails I’ve had, considering I don’t even like grapefruit. Absolutely delicious. My husband had their beer they brew, and was also very happy with it. I think it was called the Pelican? We decided to come back on Sunday so we could watch the niners game. I had a handful more of the Paloma’s, and the club sandwich. I’m a bit of a club sandwich snob; if it’s on a menu, I will try it. I’m not going to deny, it was probably the best club I’ve ever had. The garlic aioli and Dijon spread combo was *chefs kiss*. My husband ordered their burger and also said it was fantastic. Corey was running the bar when we were there, was very attentive to when our glasses were low and needing to be filled, and overall very friendly and accommodating. He even comped a drink because we came back a second day. We will 100% make this a dining destination for future Santa Cruz trips, and be sure to spread the word about the killer food and drinks.

Maybe we came on an "off" night but wow... I almost wanted to walk up and grab our dinner out from under the warmer. I watched as more plates were set under the warmer. Apparently the fries we ordered had been forgotten so they were waiting to bring out the food when the fries were ready but fries don't take that long to fry... My friends fried chicken was well, very well done. See photo. My sandwich was pretty good but for the length of time that it took for them to finally take our dinner order when the place was pretty empty and then to get our food I wouldn't come back here for quite a while for that price. Note: Their sandwiches and burgers are all "a la carte."

Popped in for early happy hour to start our Fathers Day '24 weekend vacay. We were warmly greeted upon entry, seated on patio, and our server Coral was so friendly. She recommended the slushy HHr specials, Social Punch for me and a mango margarita for my sis. Smash burger nicely done, I had BBQ brisket sandwich. We shared the fried trio with delish garlic fries, so fresh and not greasy. Definitely recommend as a spot away from the Boardwalk eateries. Seafood, protein, and veg choices as well as fave pub foods. Prices not bad, well-behaved furry friends welcomed. Ample parking in rear lot. I'll be back, very relaxed and fun spot.

So glad that my favorite neighborhood spot was able to reopen under new ownership. The interior has a different, cosy vibe. The patio is where I always like to be! Our favorite server is still here, and I'm sure they are all friendly and attentive. The menu is even better! Mole tacos? Yes, please! I appreciate a place that not only serves beer, but you can order a cocktail! Cheers!

Ambience - did a nice job of trying to camouflage the street noise by using a water feature. The patio chairs could use cushions, your bottom becomes a waffle, uncomfortable Food - mixed reviews from our table. Bangers and mash and the tri fries were enjoyed. But the fried chicken sandwich was a little too crispy and street dog had condiments that weren't complimentary Drinks- highlight was the pint glass of mimosas Overall, for a casual sunny afternoon for a drink , I would try it out.

Food is fine maybe even above average but the whole place is super understaffed or maybe just slow. The waitstaff had to be reminded to take orders and refill drinks. Food took a long time to come but was hot and fresh. Skip the Flatbread.

After seeing the picture and description of a new menu, especially deconstructed wedge salad and cajun shrimp and grits on a local Lookout review, we decided to give them another try (not formerly over impressed.) Shrimp and grits were spot on, but the wedge salad was nothing like advertised in the article or on their menu. Barely a basic wedge, just a couple wedges of iceberg, some old bacon bits, a bit of blue cheese and dressing. Not deconstructed, no tomatoes or nuts. Disappointing. I would have inquired to the waiter, but he didn't come to see how everything was until we were basically done. It was a slow Tuesday afternoon, and he appeared to be the only one around, but still...

Like many other reviewers, we used to go to Seabright Brewery pretty often when we visited Santa Cruz. Sometimes we came over the hill just for the salmon fish and chips. After the change in owners, though, like many others on Yelp, we visited once and never went back. (That visit was in June 2020.) Then we saw a news article last weekend that there is a new menu and we were already going to be in Seabright, so we decided to give it a chance. We sat outside in the gorgeous weather and remembered how awesome the patio is there. Here are some observations: Beer menu is great - they have local guest taps from the popular breweries in the area as well as a couple of their own taps. Beer price was reasonable. Beer was served quickly and was cold. Food menu itself is fine. No, they didn't bring back the panko-breaded salmon fish and chips that literally everyone on Yelp misses. Very few if any veg options. (You can sub a mushroom for meat on sandwiches, but no beyond burger or veggie patties.) I had the fish sandwich and the batter was really good. Very crispy breading, good-sized piece of fish, toasty bun. Could've used about a half cup more coleslaw on it - was a little dry - and could've used some salt in the coleslaw. Sandwiches are a la carte, so if you want fries, that's another $8 on top of the $16 sandwich. My husband's brisket patty melt was $18. We shared a sweet potato fry and those were delicious. Patty melt was good and not too messy or gigantic (though for $18, maybe it should've been more gigantic). It seems like they are struggling to have enough staff as there was only one server and the owner was running around filling waters for people. But I'd go back, if only for the patio and beer. Maybe I'll try a salad next time. I'll forever mourn the loss of the salmon fish and chips, though. #bringitback

Love the food here, new chef in the house. Ashley (waitress ) gives excellent service. Good outdoor dining, pet always welcome here. And, kids too. They have great TV inside where you can watch sports. Friendly staff.

Cute lunch spot, the food was delicious and the staff was cheerful! I'll definitely stop here again when im back in town

Great outdoor area to eat and enjoy the sun! Service was very attentive and food was good!

Came by for a quick drink after a bite at Seabright Deli. We ordered two beers: -humble sea $8 -sante adairius $11 Pretty pricey for the beer. We were the first one drinking, so there was a lot of foam to clear out from the tap. None of us really enjoyed our beers. I had the Sante which was a hazy, but tasted a bit flat. They have indoor and outdoor seating. We parked closer to Seabright Deli, but in general, mostly street parking only.

This restaurant has so much potential but the service is way too slow and the food is served cold. They have a decent sized outdoor patio that is dog friendly which was why we went. Most of the tables had dogs so make sure yours is okay to be around other animals. The food was flavorful but everything ordered was cold by the time it was served to us. We ordered the calamari, spicy chicken sandwich and the smoked brisket sandwich. Our server also hardly came around. It took way too long to order, get our drinks and to get the bill/pay. We waited so long we finally got up from the table to find the server so we could pay and leave. The table next to us had to do the same thing.

Great place for dogs! I took my 10 month old pup here after a day at twin lakes- he was sandy and happy and everyone loved him. Also great happy hour prices $$ Kirsten was our server and she was so great- very personable and super quick, always checking if we needed anything. Highly recommend

Check your Visa statement when you get home. Mine had an extra $3 charged. Guess the waiter didn't like the 13% tip I left for the 60 seconds of service we received. The place was not at all busy at the time. He never came back to check on us. I wanted to order more fries. Oh well didn't get to do that, and had to go inside to find him to pay the bill. Also, don't bother ordering the fish and chips. $20 for 2 pieces of fish and a few fries is extremely overpriced.

Dog friendly! Super nice area when the weather is good and a great selection of food and drinks.

This place is a perfect spot for a casual night out with friends or a family dinner. The menu is predominantly American with a focus on burgers and sandwiches. We've been here a couple times and last time we got a burger , which was very juicy with just the right amount of seasoning. This time around we got a brisket sandwich, which was also a delight, the meat was very tender and melted in my mouth. However, the BBQ ribs were a bit of a letdown as they were a little dry but I still enjoyed them. Our server was super nice and attentive. Both times we were here, service was great. One of the things that I loved about this place was the atmosphere. The patio area is very cozy and laid-back, with outdoor lights, heat lamps, and fireplaces, making it an ideal spot to unwind after a long day. Another added advantage is the parking area, and there is plenty of parking available in the neighborhood, making it easy to get to and from the pub.

We tried this place on a whim since I it regular pizza place was closed for renovations. Fish and chips for the wife and I, and flat bread pizza for the kid. Since we all ate everything, it must have been pretty good :) Great service and definitely worth a stop.

We are in the neighborhood so I really want to like this place, we have been back roughly once a year to see if they have turned things around but unfortunately the food and the cocktails are just not good. The cassoulet was an insult to all things French and culinary, it was liked someone dumped a can of white beans and a scoop of canned tomatoes in a bowl and decided it was cassoulet. The burgers are nice enough but nothing to write home about, the Mac and cheese was the only thing we had that seemed worthwhile. There's just better spots in the neighborhood.

Brisket sandwich was awesome & the lone server they had was great even though she was running around making it happen all by herself when we got there.

We took a quick overnight trip to Santa Cruz, and were hoping to find some cool spots for drinks and bites. I had searched for a fun brewery or taproom through Instagram, and found Seabright Social. This place was so good, we came back twice. Saturday afternoon we had the fish and chips, which were probably some of the best fish and chips we've had in a while. They were perfectly cooked; very crispy, and didn't get soggy. I ordered the Paloma cocktail, and it was one of the best frozen cocktails I've had, considering I don't even like grapefruit. Absolutely delicious. My husband had their beer they brew, and was also very happy with it. I think it was called the Pelican? We decided to come back on Sunday so we could watch the niners game. I had a handful more of the Paloma's, and the club sandwich. I'm a bit of a club sandwich snob; if it's on a menu, I will try it. I'm not going to deny, it was probably the best club I've ever had. The garlic aioli and Dijon spread combo was *chefs kiss*. My husband ordered their burger and also said it was fantastic. Corey was running the bar when we were there, was very attentive to when our glasses were low and needing to be filled, and overall very friendly and accommodating. He even comped a drink because we came back a second day. We will 100% make this a dining destination for future Santa Cruz trips, and be sure to spread the word about the killer food and drinks.

Good food and good drinks!! Food was fast and very friendly staff. We come here once a week and we just love sitting out in the patio.

I can see the light at Seabright! I highly recommend the street taco duo! House-made tortillas, a generous portion of fresh snapper complimented by a garlic aioli sauce. I washed it down with a Blur IPA. They're a little busy, but it's worth the wait. Shout out to Kayla for the suggestions! Looking forward to trying the turkey club (also popular)

Came here without any expectations and left leaving very satisfied and looking forward to returning. Our table each ordered their special for Santa Cruz Burger Week named the kahuna and it was delicious. 2 beef patties with pulled pork. Vietnamese chili, slaw and grilled marinated pineapple on a nice toasty bun. Service was attentive and welcoming. Everyone was very cordial there. Nice easy going vibe in the place.

Food came before my ice tea I asked for it again Ate half my before it came They forgot our hamburger too Ate all our food and it still not come Ask a second time oh the cooks forgot My bf ordered a chop salad It said it came with goat cheese Chef forgot the goat cheese we had to ask for it Salad was drowning in dressing and limp It had whole tomatoes that were soggy and mushy My bf considered it inedible and did not eat it My shrimp was delicious but All around disappointing experience

Our group came here right when they opened for brunch. The restaurant was clean and the servers were friendly. We enjoyed our drinks and food.

The happy hour at this place is very good. I think it's the best I've had in our area. That's including Aptos in here in Seabright/Midtown. It is Monday through Friday 3 to 6. The Smashburger is amazing. Just a great hamburger, It's just really good. The brussels sprouts which is my go to veggie are very tasty. Is traffic bad,do you have to take the Shortcuts to get home? Definitely stop at Seabright Social, and enjoy the happy hour. It's great.

Food and drinks were good, waiter was awful. We waited for everything. He had absolutely no idea be nice.Which had a 20% tip added on bill for 4 adults and 2 children. I definitely wouldn't go back again.

The food is decent. When the place is busy the service gets a little questionable. I recommend this for a place to grab food and drinks with your dogs

Good place plenty of choices to choose from on the menu better than 3 stars ., would recommend!

This was one of the worst experiences at restaurant bar I have ever had. I got there to see my buddies band do a set. I got one beer at the bar, then sat down at a table. The server kept walking around and never came and asked me anything. Would I like a menu? I had to get up go over to the bar and get a menu. Finished my beer menu sitting on table, still ignored. Finally she comes over very unfriendly and curt to ask if I wanted anything. Jeez really! Looked at other people's food looked like slop! Only good thing they had SARA beer on tap.

First time here and I really liked it! Super dog friendly in their outdoor patio with a little menu for your fur friend to enjoy while you eat. This place is perfect to come with family or friends and to chit chat. The food here was good as well! We got the pinsa pesto caprese and sweet potato fries to start off with. The caprese was very delicious and flavorful and so were the sweet potato fries. The sauce was just not my fave for the fries. We then got the california turkey club sandwich which was very fresh and delicious. We also got their mac and cheese which was just okay. The service here was great and so was the food, I will definitely be coming back here with my dog as he seemed to really enjoy it here too :)

Have watched this spot evolve thru all the years, since it was 1st built (1988 ?) The Seabright location, with an indoor/outdoor layout makes it a uniquely attractive, casual destination. The transition after change in ownership was rough. Gave it another chance today, & was pleasantly surprised Clam chowder was tasty (& not too big a portion, just right) & my drink choice turned out to be 5 ("The Point") - I will go back just for that amazing concoction. I felt like I was suddenly up in S.F. getting an excellent craft cocktail. My only frustration is their website. They could take a page from ESE (East Side Eatery) which provides a full 5 pg food/drink menu (along w/happy hour offerings.) When I'm trying to decide which place to choose, I don't want to drive/park & then walk inside to find out what is a available.

We came over for lunch and didn't even bother walking in because the owner (possibly) has a GSD was such a douche bag .We had our 2 GSD and said one of them is a bit afraid of everything so she might bark. He began talking down to me that the dogs are not welcome if they are reactive, which our dogs are not! He proceeded to lecture me about not giving us a chance if the dogs are reactive to other dogs and kids. The way he talked to us was completely unprofessional and terrible business oriented. I would never go there! It's all in the delivery of your message especially if you're a business owner. He needs manners and customer service class.

Covid Masks and gloves on staff, indoor and outdoor seating Big portions on the sandwiches but they ran out of spareribs. The salad is ok, kinda wish the salmon is bigger portion. Service is ok.

I've been here a few times during mid-day, as a local. The staff is always very nice, down-to-earth, and accommodating. I like this spot as a relaxed and sunny outdoor-dining restaurant that isn't as overrun with tourists or beachgoers as other Santa Cruz areas. It is located at kind of a busy intersection, but the water fountain outside drowns most the traffic noise. The food isn't too bad, but not the reason I continue to come back. The drinks are good, but sadly--like every other business--they are facing the consequences of inflation, and prices have gone up. Overall it's a great spot, and a less annoyingly hectic alternative to the typical tourist traps.

I go here all the time. Spicy chicken sandwich is usually excellent (but I wish their kitchen were a little more consistent), and the staff is friendly. Outdoor space with heaters is pup friendly.

Tad is a phenomenal bartender and host. We are traveling from Fresno and felt right at home. We will come here again and again

Food was mediocre, not well assembled and the calamari was not properly cleaned, requiring the membranes to be pulled from one's mouth. The garlic fries were great. Server brought order and never came back to refill the tea. I would not return here.

What a bummer. We wanted to like it here and make it another one of our regular spots. Majority of staff wasn't very kid friendly, bathrooms were filthy and food was terrible for the price...which wasn't even pricey! We won't be back, disappointed and I used to be here (when it was the brewery) EVERY Tuesday for neighborhood night 20y ago in college :( oh well

We've been coming to our local for years watching it change from a brewpub to the more aptly named Social Club because it is such a great neighborhood gathering place. It emerged from the COVID experience even better than before. The mac and cheese, fries, and tacos are some of the best in town. Can't wait for street corn season! Wait staff are without exception friendly and professional. And now with our favorite bartender, Tad, at the helm, it the place to go for both great cocktails and food. We're looking forward to hearing more music there as they work out the permits and bookings. The hosts who answer the phones aren't well informed of the entertainment calendar. The only reason I didn't give it 5 stars is the indoor ambience could be improved in my opinion with more comfortable seating and less of a cold, industrial feel.

Seabright social is a fun spot to grab some brews and food while waiting out the rain or just hanging out in Santa Cruz. They don't have many vegan options on their menu but we were able to grab this Barley Soup (which was absolutely delightful!) Their fries were also super tasty and a great portion size for sharing.

Had a wonderful time listening to live Brazilian music the other night... the bartender Tad was on it and had wonderful customer service. 10/10 would recommend

We had never heard of this place until our favorite trivia quizmaster, Roger, told us about it. It's comfortable, airy, has a good menu and free parking. The staff is exceptional. We're looking forward to coming back.

One of the most underrated places in Santa Cruz. The patio is top notch and the service is great! We come at least once a week. Seabright Social deserves more recognition.

I've been coming to Seabright for decades.. The best thing they have these days is the original Blur IPA. Other than that...its just gone down hill unfortunately. I was here on opening Sunday weekend and met the new co-owner. All he kept doing was bashing on Keith the previous owner on how he ran this place down to the ground because he didn't care about the restaurant anymore. Even after I told him I knew him. With letting all that go... here came the food. Their new rendition of non-salmon fish n chips. Not very tasty. I later mentioned to the new owner that they should bring back the original salmon fish n chips.. he said they didn't settle very well with the new fryers or something and what I interpreted..he didn't want to keep anything that was original to do with the restaurant. He wanted his own twist on his menu. Months later..guess what's back on the menu...yes, salmon fish n chips. Must have been many that asked for it back. Unfortunately..nothing like the original. I've tried it a couple times since.. trying to give it one two three times a chance. But nope..can't do it anymore. Now for the last couple years I've been going to a deli just around the corner instead. Today...I of course went to the deli, and hung out at the Cove for a bit. Decided to drop back in to Seabright for a beer and something to eat before the trip back home. Ordered the blur IPA.. delicious! And an order of calamari. First view of the calamari and I was wondering what happened to the other half. I mean.. the order was crazy small.. shaking my head..going what did I pay for this!?!? $14.00! Wholy cr#p!! Then came the first bite... uhhh...have you ever heard of salt? Omg.. tasteless with no character. Plain jane....no flavor, and to top it, a little over cooked chewy. Ok...so, I really don't like bashing in a place I've been going to and enjoying for years, decades.. but as I sit at my table right now, finishing the best part of my visit...Blur ipa. I just can't fathom myself to want to give this place a 6th 7th 8th times chance. Patio is nice, staff if friendly, but the food has something to improve on. Bring back the original Salmon n chips with the Wasabi radish sauce and the ponzu sauce. Oh...and add some salt to the calamari and portions please.

Do not order food here. Do not expect good, even adequate service. Food: grilled chicken club. World's thickest bread, clearly frozen chicken that they microwaved, then threw (up) on the bread. I asked for no tomatoes. THICK tomato slices on sandwich. After I unhinged my jaw and was able to take a bite, I thought my tooth was going to break because of the over-toasted bread and burnt bacon. I managed to salvage the avocado, which will be ripe and usable in a day or 2. Service: If you're attention seeking, or say... HUNGRY... good luck!

so disappointed in the ribs. the worst i've ever had and they weren't even on the bone i keep trying to give this place a second chance and am even more disappointed every time. would not recommend.

Sadly I won't even try coming here based on the rude host that answer the phone. I called to ask about happy hour, and he said it just ended. When I said I wanted to know what was the happy hour for future reference, first he said "what?" about three times to make me repeat myself, and then muttered Christ under his breath. I hung up the phone after that. If you are this rude over the phone how terrible will the service be in person?

Very nice, cozy, outdoor eating area with fire pits, lights, and comfy seating. Aptly named social club as it lends itself to be with a group of friends. Perfect for a casual night out. Great bartender, Tad, who takes care of everything you need and is so on top of it. Very friendly and efficient. Food is good, tacos and shrimp chowder great! Would love to have music back. Lots of parking available. Would prefer more comfy spaces indoors. Good "to go" spot locally.

Good food, outside patio is nice to sit on during the afternoon. The chicken and waffles have a nice mix of sweet and spicy. Ribs are moist and tender, the meat falls off the bone.

We've been coming here for years to enjoy the patio and good food. We are not locals but live in the 831 area code so visit 2 to 3 times a year. We dropped in last Sunday expecting the usual good experience. This place was always packed on previous Sunday visits so the empty parking lot should have served as a warning. Service was good and fast so no issue there. I ordered the turkey club which turned out to be dry and cold, with supermarket turkey slices and smothered in a mustardy~tasting sauce that completely overwhelmed the flavor of anything else. My companion ordered the fish and chips which had been quite good in the past but now consists of two small pieces of cod in a bland coating. The meal was pricey for what we received and the patio is dirty, cold, shopworn and unappealing these days, especially when there is nobody there. part of the appeal was always the groups of people who added a liveliness, especially when they were accompanied by their dogs.

Not impressed... for a $16 burger youd think the service would support that cost... definitely not. Then came the poor food quality. The burger couldn't even hold up to the cost... I would say its a $12 burger if anything...? Thats pushing it. Burger came on a burnt brioche bun... and a well done burger patty, when I asked for medium. They added so much salt, all you can taste is the burnt to shit bun. Is the bun burnt to hide the taste of the shitty patty? Who knows...? Wont return to find out. Also only three tiny pieces of onion to garnish the burger... what the hell. None of our food was even slightly warm. Fries either. Couldve been because we sat and waited outside for "curbside" togo that the bartender suggested... and then ended up going inside cause it was taking too long. Bartender told me it had just come out of the kitchen... if thats the case... then DEFINITELY would not suggest this $16 cold ass burger meal. None of their bar food is worth the price. Sad to see the options and quality go down hill.

Just came from our visit, we had a blast!! We love coming here, we started doing laundry across the street & this is a great place to spend the time between switching loads. The bartender is so fun, Tad I believe is there the day we go, plus the food is yummy & the atmosphere is chill & welcoming. Will be coming back for sure