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  • We are open for Patio Dining & Take-Out.

    *Face coverings required at all times unless seated at your table while eating and drinking.

    Since 1994, Ideal Bar & Grill has been a favorite amongst locals and visitors alike!
    Located at the entrance to the wharf between Main Beach & Cowell's Beach

    Make Reservations

COME DISCOVER A SPOT AS UNIQUE AND ORIGINAL AS SANTA CRUZ ITSELF


Located at the entrance to the historic Santa Cruz Wharf and steps to the beach, Ideal Bar & Grill has been the go-to spot for tasty food & delicious cocktails since 1994! We're open for breakfast, lunch & dinner with brunch on the weekends!

Ideal Bar & Grill has so much to offer!

We're not just a fantastic place to enjoy amazing food & cocktails with family & friends. We also offer value packed specials throughout the week, year-round! Our legendary Lobster Night is every Wednesday Night and Prime Rib is every Friday Night. Looking for a fabulous beach front venue to host a reception, business meeting or special gathering? Look no further than Ideal Bar & Grill! We are literally on the beach and feature our private Beach Room with a private full bar & A/V capabilities.

Our Specials

Weekly Specials

Amazing specials offered throughout the week. Live Maine Lobster, Slow Roasted Prime Rib, Baby Back Ribs & More!

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Reservations


Plan ahead and book reservations through Open Table

Private Events

Private Dining

Our setting provides the perfect backdrop for large group or holiday parties, banquets or special events.

Our Food

Open Daily

Our exstensive menus feature fresh seafood, delicious pastas, succulent steaks and more. Join us for breakfast, lunch & dinner. Kids menu available.

Our Bar

Bar with a View

The bar at Ideal is THE SPOT for that refreshing beverage that compliment your day at the beach or that perfect dish from our menu. Featuring local beers & wines along with signature cocktails.

Coffee Bar

Coffee Bar

Open at 7am daily, visit our quaint coffee bar where we also feature espresso, breakfast burritos, donuts, milshakes, smoothies & more! We also do food to go from our coffee bar.

Happy Hour

Drinks & Appetizers

Available Monday - Friday 3:30-5:30pm. Choose from a selection of discounted cocktails, wine, beer & selected appetizers.

Patio Dining

On the Deck

Our expansive patio boasts 180 degree views of the Boardwalk, Santa Cruz Wharf & Cowell's Beach.

Karaoke

Tiki Bar Karaoke

Summertime FUN from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Join us for Karaoke in the Tiki Bar with DJ Eve every Saturday & Sunday from 2pm-5pm.