Santa Cruz County - 2008 Official Traveler's Guide - (Page 25) Field totable The many tastes of Santa Cruz County begin as seedlings in the rich sandy loam unique to the Central Coast. Warm sunny days offset cool foggy nights to form one of the most distinctive geographical areas in this virtual Shangri-La. The roots of Santa Cruz County cuisine literally lie in the soil. The area’s rich agricultural history formed the foundation for many successful businesses whose products are enjoyed even today. And for decades, apples, milk, wine and strawberries have reigned supreme. The abundance of locally grown fruits and vegetables provides inspiration for the many celebrated chefs within the county. A number of chefs are known for creating menus in harmony with the seasons to highlight locally-grown items at their peak. Farmers markets bloom throughout the county, and are veritable boutiques of nature, where you can browse fragrant, plentiful produce at leisure. Many of these markets host special cooking and gardening-related events. the county. And speaking of fresh, nearly every restau- Sample the tastes of Santa Cruz County Pairing food with wine has been par for rant offering seafood in town features salmon, halibut, Dungeness crab, sand dabs and sole, harvested straight from the Monterey Bay. Daily catches become nightly specials at restaurants throughout the county, in particular on the Santa Cruz Municipal Wharf where you’ll find some of the best clam chowder in For the perfect complement to local cuisine, the celebrated wines of the region rank among the best in the country. In fact, the Santa Cruz Mountains Appellation is one of the oldest wine growing regions in the United States. Over 40 wineries throughout the area, many of them small and family-owned, benefit from the Santa Cruz Mountains microclimates. Visit a tasting room, or try one of the many local restaurants which serve these handcrafted wines. In addition, the Santa Cruz Mountain Winegrowers Association hosts winemaker dinners, featuring exclusive tastings and gourmet meals presented in spectacular settings. the course at restaurants like the historic Shadowbrook Restaurant in Capitola. For over 60 years, this landmark eatery has been charming visitors with its delicious menu items, hillside cable car and sweeping garden. Stop in during Winemaker Wednesdays, October through April, when local wines take center stage. Whether your culinary preference takes you to an outdoor market bursting with fresh produce, a romantic hideaway, or a bustling Mediterranean-themed sidewalk bistro, Santa Cruz County is the perfect gastronomic destination. For a complete list of dining options, see pages 56-59. Bon appétit! “ Most visitors don’t realize 25 that the little town of Soquel, in the foothills south of Santa cruz, is home to some great Pinot noir.” Via Magazine, January 2007 Photo: Paul Schraub www. s a n t a cr u z co u n ty. t r a v e l http://www.santacruzcounty.travel
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