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Welcome to The Picnic Basket

At The Picnic Basket, we celebrate the simple joys of fresh, delicious meals in a charming beachside setting. Our story begins with a passion for wholesome ingredients, reflected in our vibrant salads, savory sandwiches, and delightful breakfast options. We believe that dining should be a joyful experience, which is why we prioritize sustainability with compostable containers and plastic-free packaging. Our warm, welcoming atmosphere is perfect for families and friends, whether you're enjoying brunch, lunch, or a quick takeout. With accessible facilities, outdoor seating, and a menu that caters to everyone—including vegan options—we invite you to savor each moment at The Picnic Basket.

The Picnic Basket: Reviews & Ratings

Farah S.
Farah S.

Jumping on the bandwagon here. Super fresh and delicious. I sometimes avoid pretty places like this because they can be overpriced and not that great, but this place delivered! I actually saved the second half of my huge breakfast burrito and ate it later cold. It was still soo good! My friends loved their fritatta and salads. Very friendly staff. Perfect location across from the beach. Can't wait to visit again next time I'm in the area.

Angela M.
Angela M.

Was staying in Santa Cruz 3 nights and ate here for breakfast- EVERY DAY! It was delicious. My favorite thing- the frittata panini (add bacon) I dont know what there secret is to those eggs but they are light and fluffy and full of feta cheese and that jam is fantastic. My only critic is the bread needs to be a bit more toasted. Great coffee too! Its a cute place to sit across from the waves and have a wonderful start to your day- thanks THE PICNIC BASKET! I will be back.

Johnson A.
Johnson A.

Always great. They make excellent coffee drinks. The food is healthy and delicious. They are really nice and friendly here.

Sandra B.
Sandra B.

The sandwiches are delicious and taste very healthy. They are not your typical sandwich but instead they are creatively put together with ingredients that provide a very pleasant surprise that works very well! They also sell ready made salads and other healthy options that look very delicious but I have not had them yet. Located across the street from the beach so it's a great place to stop by if you are already in the area. Parking might be a bit tricky on busy days. They place is clean with indoor and out door seating. Clean bathroom is available as well!

Roozbeh Z.
Roozbeh Z.

We arrived on a Thursday noon. The reviews are considerably better than neighbor restaurants, si we went there. They have indoor sitting and outdoor as well. The chairs are comfortable, and the indoor area is pretty nice. The sandwiches are tasty, and delicious. The bread is crispy and everything tasted fresh. The mac and cheese that we got for our toddler was not that good. If it wasn't because of that I should have given them 5 stars

Location

  • The Picnic Basket
    125 Beach St Ste B Santa Cruz, CA 95060 United States Hotline: (831) 427-9946

Welcome to The Picnic Basket, a culinary gem nestled in the heart of Santa Cruz, California. Located at 125 Beach St Ste B, just a stone's throw from the beach, this delightful spot offers a charming escape for locals and visitors alike. With a menu that beautifully blends salads, sandwiches, and breakfast options, The Picnic Basket is the perfect destination for a casual brunch or lunch with family and friends.

The ambiance here strikes a harmonious balance between casual and inviting. With both indoor and outdoor seating, it’s an ideal place to soak in the coastal breeze while enjoying your meal. Many patrons have praised the friendly staff who contribute to the warm environment, helping to make every dining experience special.

One of the standout features of The Picnic Basket is its commitment to freshness and quality. As noted by customer reviews, dishes like the frittata panini and breakfast burritos not only tantalize the taste buds but also emphasize wholesome ingredients. For instance, Farah S. raved about the freshness of her breakfast burrito, particularly how it retained its deliciousness even enjoyed cold. Angela M. couldn't resist indulging in the frittata every day during her stay, praising its light and fluffy texture packed with feta cheese.

Moreover, The Picnic Basket excels at creatively assembling sandwiches that surprise and delight. Sandra B. emphasized how the offerings transcend typical sandwiches, merging unexpected flavors in a way that keeps customers coming back for more. The salads are also a feast for the eyes, with vibrant colors and healthy ingredients that promise to excite health-conscious diners.

Accessibility is a priority at The Picnic Basket, boasting an ADA-compliant entrance and features that accommodate all guests, including wheelchair access and dog-friendly seating. This inclusivity makes it a perfect gathering spot for groups and families, with the added convenience of catering services and outdoor dining options available.

In an age where sustainability is key, The Picnic Basket impressively uses compostable containers and plastic-free packaging. This commitment to the environment resonates with many diners who appreciate a mindful dining experience.

As I absorbed the vibrant atmosphere and sampled the fare, it was clear that The Picnic Basket is not just a place to eat; it’s a sanctuary for those who value fresh, delicious food in a welcoming setting. Whether you’re a local or simply exploring Santa Cruz, a visit here is sure to elevate your palate. With free Wi-Fi and an array of drink options, including beer and wine, it’s a perfect spot to relax after a beach day or catch up with friends.

Visit The Picnic Basket today and discover why it’s garnered such rave reviews. Your taste buds will thank you!