Lillian's Italian Kitchen

1148 Soquel Ave, Santa Cruz - 95062
342 reviews
Italian Seafood
(831) 425-2288

If you have to eat anywhere eat here. I drove all the way from Sacramento to eat here. When I first walked into the building, the smell of amazing food was something to behold. I wish I could of eaten the air. Everything on the menu is top notch. The team in the kitchen is like a fine orchestra making sweet music together. This is truly my favorite place to eat

Cute location, perhaps in an old bank. Because of this the accoustic were poor. The restaurant was very busy but they took us right in. Service throughout the meal was pleasant but staff seemed rushed. We ordered Ravioli in Tomato Cream Sauce, Wild Mushroom and Kale Ravioli, and a daily special Salmon dish. Each of us was very happy with our meal. Prices seemed a little high? Both raviolis came with nothing else. If in the area again I'd return but knowing the bill would be high.

What a delightful surprise finding this restaurant was!! We were staying in Capitola and took a drive to Santa Cruz. As dinner approached, I looked up Italian food near me and Lillian's Italian Kitchen came up and we decided to check it out. Nice open feel inside and the menu looked fabulous! Our meals arrived quickly and were absolutely delicious!! Very authentic Italian tasting!! Service was great and all the staff were friendly. We will definitely return when we're back in the area!!

We enjoyed a wonderful dining experience all around. During the short time we were waiting to be seated, three servers, as they were passing by, greeted us and said someone would be with us shortly. Once we ordered, our dishes came out fairly quickly. I had the fettuccine with braised beef ragu, and it was a perfect balance of flavor and tenderness. My hubby order the halibut special which was served on a bed of polenta and a side of broccolini. Both dishes were of generous portions and came out piping hot. They recently got a full bar license so cocktails will be added to the beer and wine they currently offer.

food was ok, service wasn't great the manager was extremely rude manager was extremely rude wont go again

Great service. Made a reservation the night before and the host was very friendly and helpful. I asked for a certain table and they said they would do their best when I came in. Tonight they were able to accommodate the request and it was a great experience. Food was great and everyone enjoyed their meal.

What’s not to love about Lillian’s? Friendly attentive knowledgeable hostess and servers, salad ingredients that could not be more fresh, excellent entrees and wine list! Lillian’s has my vote for best restaurant in the Santa Cruz area.

Food was fine. Service at best okay - multiple requests went unfulfilled including missing dishes. Manager (owners son) was extremely rude.

My partner and I went there for date night and I have to say it is the best place I have gone to in a great while. They might not be inexpensive but the service was the best I have ever seen. Everyone there helps one another and makes sure the customer gets the very best service and the food will speak for itself. If you want great service and awesome food this is the place to go.

One of my favorite Italian restaurant in Santa Cruz area. It was a small restaurant and they opened a larger one aside at the corner.I personally recommend classic lasagna, it’s perfectly cooked each layer is full of ingredients and flavorful, if you are a lasagna lover you cannot miss it.I have visited many times and have not find specific item that I don’t like, it is highly recommend restaurant for important days to celebrate. Like if it’s useful :)