Sugo Italian Pasta Bar

Located in the northern Seabright neighborhood of Santa Cruz, Sugo is a small and intimate eatery delighting its patrons with first-rate, authentic Italian cuisine. The decor and friendly staff invite the diner to relax, enjoy, and relish the dishes prepared. On the recommendation from a local, we enjoyed a fantastic lunch at Sugo. The Antipasto Italiano and Spaghetti alle Vongole were generous portions of authentic Italian fare served timely, and the service from Sofia was outstanding and attentive. Tutto buonissimo!

This gem is hidden away in the midtown area of Santa Cruz. It has both indoor and (my recommendation) outdoor seating. There are specials on the menu, but the other half and I always go with the pick your pasta, pick your sauce, add what you want.The pasta is fresh and sauces flavorful.The owner/chef is from Puglia which is one of our favorite parts of Italy.

Italiano spoken here! Two good friends leave Rome to become California surfers and eventually open Sugo Restaurant and Pasta Bar. It is a wonderful story with a great ending or a wonderful beginning!Sugo has definitely become my favorite dining go-to when ever I am in the Santa Cruz area. And always the first restaurant where I make reservations even before I leave home.It is a small restaurant on a busy, non descript part of Soquel Avenue in midtown Santa Cruz.The inside dining room is inviting, cozy, and intimate. There is nice covered outdoor seating behind the restaurant. I like eating there if I am having lunch but inside is my preference at dinner. The low lights and romantic feel just somehow evoke being in Italy.Having indulged in three sumptuous meals since Sugo was recommended, I can definitely say yes to all the food. Mouthwatering...every single bite. And I have photos to celebrate those occasions.My last visit was over the top. We decided to partake in the total Italian food experience. That being a leisurely dinner enjoying all aspects of the menu. Wine, appetizers, entrèes, and desserts/coffees. It did not disappoint! The service is always warm and welcoming. Like being at your favorite Italian nonna's home. Delicious and comfortable. You will be as enamored as me with the "Sugo" dining adventure! When you are in the Santa Cruz area take some time for a side trip to Italy so you may enjoy some authentic but simple Italian cooking. Make your reservation now!Dreaming of those incredible clams in the most lovely and delicate broth. I am so missing you, Sugo!

Delicious pasta! We ordered wonderful salads and pasta and pizza. Service efficient and thoughtful. Great little spot for lunch. Easy and delicious!

I love being able to write glowing reviews!! I can't recommend Sugo enough. Great ambiance- the owner was the one taking orders and checking in, so the experience felt very personal and intimate. Every table has a little lamp, flowers, oil, and balsamic. For food, we ordered the daily special appetizer (asparagus wrapped in speck with cheese), king salmon special, beef ravioli, spinach ricotta cannellini, and the carbanara. Everything was DELICIOUS, we had nothing but good things to say. We also paired our entrees with different wines which we liked. Prices for most wines circled $12-$15/glass, and expect to pay $20-$25 per entree. We dont typically order dessert but we enjoyed the food so much we decided to try it. The crème brûlée is easily top 3 best we've ever had.... So crackly on top and delicious!! Someone in our party has celiac, and the restaurant was very knowledgeable and helpful in making sure her food was safe. They have a gluten free pasta option and a (pistachio? I don't remember) gelato which was DELICIOUS. Great place for a friend reunion if you're looking to make it a Nice Meal. Thanks Sugo!

Came here for lunch. It has been a while since we've had good Italian food. We were the first patrons here for lunch on a Tuesday. Sliced bread - fine. There's olive oil and balsamic. My husband ordered the penne vodka with salmon - He said it came with plenty of salmon I got the carbonara. Large portion that will feed me twice. Heavy but delicious. Very satisfying.

Huge fan of this spot - Lillian's and Tramonti get all the hype, but Sugo deserves much more. We did one restaurant week menu and one carbonara, and everything was spot on. The bread was amazing, as was the carpaccio. I loved the ragu, and my wife loved the carbonara. Nothing to complain about, will surely be back!

Nice ambiance, heated back patio and service were the highlights. The food wasn't something we would crave anytime soon but the seafood was fresh and plates were hot.

Authentic food, amazing flavor, wonderful staff, great service. We will be backBest lasagna ever!

I don't know what is better here, the food or the service. Such a lucky find! Everything was amazing, but order the lasagna!