Lillian's Italian Kitchen

First time here. The staff was very friendly and our waiter was great. Very friendly and attentive. He made sure everything was good. We had the chicken parmesan and it was excellent. Very nice restaurant, clean and great atmosphere. We will definitely be back.

- K J L -

We had a reservation for 4 at 6pm on a Wednesday night. The place was packed, and had ppl waiting to be seated. Reservation highly recommended. We were seated right away. The restaurant was a bit noisy but tolerable. We ordered a bread platter served with sun-dried tomato tapenade and baguette slices from Companion bakery, which is the best in town. We started our dinner with a large Caesar Salad to share, and a bottle of Super Tuscan. The wine was surprisingly good for the price. Caesar salad was okay. If they made the dressing with anchovies and vinegar, they were barely noticable. Homemade Gnocchi with Gorgonzola Cream sauce was absolutely delicious. The flavor of gorgonzola came through but not overwhelming. The texture of gnocchi was nicely done. Eggplant Parmesan with homemade marinara sauce was my favorite dish of all. The acidity of the tomato came through and brightened the flavor which made the dish even better. Lasagna with "Sunday Gravy" just missed the mark. It could have used more cheese and more sauce, but it was nicely baked. My husband, who is a huge fan of canollis, thought tonite's canolli had the best filling he's ever had. Tiramisu was okay. It had a good flavor but a bit dry. The service was excellent from the server to the person who bussed the table. Very courteous and efficient. We were all very happy with our dinner experience and we look forward to going back again soon.

- Kathy Escott -

Haven’t been here in over a decade! It was such a pleasant surprise to see that the hole in the wall Italian place expanded so much over the last few years. I remember the old location you had to walk through the kitchen to use the bathroom! The food hasn’t changed- it’s still the great quality Italian food in Santa Cruz. I got the strawberry blue cheese salad, fresh and citrusy- I love a good summer salad! We also got the ragu and shrimp seafood pasta. Both are so delicious and cooked perfectly. The shrimp was so soft, I’m glad they didn’t over cook it- the fresh tomatoes on top with lemon was a great addition to the meal. My ragu was great flavor, the meat was so tender! I’m so glad that the place expanded so now there’s more space to dine in. We were there and it seemed pretty busy! Looking forward to coming back.

- Tiffany Sun -

Came here during a trip to Santa Cruz for my mom’s birthday. We wanted to go to a nice restaurant for dinner so I made a reservation for this beautiful place ahead of time. Our reservation went smooth, the restaurant wasn’t packed but had a decent amount of people, and the experience was very lovely. They have a nice sized menu, different salads and pastas, various wines, and tasty desserts. I had gotten the fiochetti and it was delicious. All of us enjoyed our food and felt satisfied at the end. Definitely recommend and if I’m in the area will be back!

- Liliana M -

13 & 15 AUG25: Place was recommended by two friend’s who go to Santa Cruz every year and just chill. The restaurant is in a neighborhood setting and is always filled with locals and others happily being catered to by the friendly staff and great chefs. Shrimp and clams tender and well seasoned, house made pasta perfectly cooked, salads copious and delicious. Sharing starters will not disappoint. Cocktails are amazing. Special call out to Deanna, Devin, Annie (Manager) and Emma

- Richard LaFace -

What a find! Reservations needed even on a Tuesday night as the place was packed but they fit us in. Lots of big family groups but not crazy loud. Great cocktails, delicious Sicilian food and top wait staff adds up to a special night out.

- M W -

I went here for the first time recently. Right away, I found myself enjoying the high energy atmosphere. Everyone is there to eat good food, and have a great time. There was a lot of families and people on dates. Good vibes all around. The drinks appetizers and entrées were all delicious. I would definitely come here again anytime.

- Brian Williams -