Chocolate – American
This sultry sanctuary invites guests into a world of liquid indulgence where the rich allure of cocoa meets the bold artistry of craft mixology. From the smoky complexity of a chocolate mezcal martini to the vibrant, tropical heat of a pineapple-chipotle margarita, each glass is a masterclass in balancing decadent sweetness with spirited botanical notes. It is a sophisticated haven for evening revelry, where velvet textures and unexpected flavors transform a simple nightcap into a multisensory celebration.
1522 Pacific Avenue, Santa Cruz CA 95060 https://chocolatesantacruz.com/Rating: 4/5 (1 reviews)
Cuisine: American
Price range: $
Dietary options: dairy-free, gluten-free, halal, high-protein, keto, low-carb, vegan, vegetarian, heart-healthy, low-fat, low-sodium, mediterranean, paleo, pescatarian, plant-based, whole30, anti-inflammatory, atkins, dash-sodium-reduced, gerd, high-fiber, low-cholesterol, south-beach, aip, alkaline, renal, tlc, volumetrics, zone, juice-cleanse, lectin-free, macrobiotic, slow-carb, soy-free
Diet fit at Chocolate
Dairy-Free at Chocolate
Chocolate in Santa Cruz has 19 dairy-free-tagged dishes on its current menu, including Brussels Sprouts, Dessert Orgy and Dark Rose Truffle. Tags come from dish-level menu analysis and update when the menu changes.
Gluten-Free at Chocolate
Chocolate in Santa Cruz has 11 gluten-free-tagged dishes on its current menu, including Brussels Sprouts, Gluten-Free Mini Loaf and Mo'le Trio. Tags come from dish-level menu analysis and update when the menu changes.
Halal at Chocolate
Chocolate in Santa Cruz has 40 halal-tagged dishes on its current menu, including Big Warm Cupcake, Eggplant Parmesan and Brussels Sprouts. Tags come from dish-level menu analysis and update when the menu changes.
High-Protein at Chocolate
Chocolate in Santa Cruz has 1 high-protein-tagged dish on its current menu, including Spicy Chocolate BBQ Pork. Tags come from dish-level menu analysis and update when the menu changes.
Keto at Chocolate
Chocolate in Santa Cruz has 3 keto-tagged dishes on its current menu, including Brussels Sprouts, Vegan Mo'le and Fresh Lime Margarita (Quart). Tags come from dish-level menu analysis and update when the menu changes.
Low-Carb at Chocolate
Chocolate in Santa Cruz has 4 low-carb-tagged dishes on its current menu, including Brussels Sprouts, Vegan Mo'le and Fresh Lime Margarita (Quart). Tags come from dish-level menu analysis and update when the menu changes.
Vegan at Chocolate
Chocolate in Santa Cruz has 24 vegan-tagged dishes on its current menu, including Brussels Sprouts, Dessert Orgy and Dark Rose Truffle. Tags come from dish-level menu analysis and update when the menu changes.
Vegetarian at Chocolate
Chocolate in Santa Cruz has 57 vegetarian-tagged dishes on its current menu, including Big Warm Cupcake, Eggplant Parmesan and Hazelnut Truffle. Tags come from dish-level menu analysis and update when the menu changes.
How tags work: Dish-level menu analysis by Chefi's rule-based diet engine with AI assistance; nutrition values are estimated from ingredients unless marked verified. Allergen and certification claims are never inferred.
What to order at Chocolate
| Dish | Net carbs | Protein |
|---|---|---|
| Tres Chiles | 108.2 g | 50.4 g |
| Spicy Chocolate BBQ Pork | 17.3 g | 39.3 g |
| Mo'le Plate | 97.5 g | 33.5 g |
| Sesame-Ginger Salmon | 91.6 g | 32.9 g |
| Coconut Cheesecake | 73.3 g | 31.4 g |
| Mai Tai | 9.5 g | 27 g |
| Fresh Mint Truffle | 34.6 g | 26.4 g |
| Greek Salad | 5.7 g | 24.2 g |
| Mediterranean Salad | 75.1 g | 23.8 g |
| Vanilla-Passion-Fruit Cheesecake | 25.9 g | 23.3 g |
| Antipasto Platter | 62.4 g | 23.1 g |
| Fuego | 88.7 g | 22 g |
Nutrition values are estimated from ingredients.
Currently closed
Hours
- Tu-Th - Sunday
- 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM
- Friday - Saturday
- 4:00 PM - 9:00 PM
What diners are saying
Celebrated for its delectable and well-prepared cuisine, guests frequently highlight the delicious soup as a standout dish that anchors a memorable meal. Diners rave about the welcoming and attentive service that makes special occasions feel truly personal, noting that the inviting ambiance provides the perfect backdrop for a high-quality dining experience.
Menu
Cocktails
- Bourbon Bee: Westside Water small-batch bourbon, fresh lemon juice, California honey, ginger juice Dietary tags: Vegetarian, Pescatarian, Low-Sodium, Low-Fat, DASH Sodium-Reduced, High-Fiber, Low-Cholesterol, TLC, Renal, Juice-Cleanse
- Chocolate Martini: Vodka infused with Mutari cacao nibs, vanilla syrup
- Chocolate Mezcal Martini: Banhez Mezcal, chocolate infusion Dietary tags: Vegan, Vegetarian, Pescatarian, Low-Sodium, Renal
- Chocolate-Raspberry Rum: Gold rum infused with organic raspberries and Mutari cacao nibs, vanilla syrup Dietary tags: Vegan, Vegetarian, Pescatarian, Low-Sodium, Renal
- Espresso Martini: Vodka infused with Alta Coffee Roasters organic espresso beans, vanilla syrup, optional cream
- Mai Tai: Golden rum, curacao, passion fruit juice, dark rum
- Passion Fruit Margarita: Fresh squeezed lime juice, Arette Blanco tequila, passion fruit juice, agave syrup
- Pineapple-Chipotle Margarita: Tequila infused with smoky chipotles, caramelized pineapple, fresh lime Dietary tags: Vegan, Vegetarian, Pescatarian, Plant-Based
Cocktails to Take Home
- Fresh Lime Margarita (Quart) - $35: House-made mixers, fresh lime juice Dietary tags: Keto, Low-Carb, Vegan, Vegetarian, Pescatarian, Plant-Based, Low-Sodium, Atkins, Renal, Juice-Cleanse, Slow-Carb, Lectin-Free
- Passion Fruit Margarita (Quart) - $35: House-made mixers, fresh lime juice, passion fruit Dietary tags: Vegan, Vegetarian, Pescatarian, Plant-Based, Juice-Cleanse, Lectin-Free
- Mai Tai (Quart) - $38: House-made mixers, rum blend Dietary tags: Vegan, Vegetarian, Pescatarian, Plant-Based, Lectin-Free
- Pomegranate Cosmo (Quart) - $35: House-made mixers Dietary tags: Vegan, Vegetarian, Halal, Whole30, Pescatarian, Paleo, Plant-Based, Alkaline, AIP, Macrobiotic, Lectin-Free
- Moscow Mule (Quart) - $35: House-made mixers Dietary tags: Vegan, Vegetarian, Pescatarian, Plant-Based, Lectin-Free
Wine
- Barbaresco - $55: 2017 Stefano Farina, Diano d’Alba, Italy. Made from Nebbiolo grapes. Dietary tags: Vegan, Vegetarian, Pescatarian, Plant-Based
Appetizers & Small Plates
- Antipasto Platter: Pestos, cheeses, roasted & pickled vegetables, house-made focaccia Dietary tags: Vegetarian, Halal, Pescatarian Available at: dinner, lunch
- Artichoke & Cheese Pot: Asiago and ricotta cheeses, sliced artichoke hearts, white wine, baguette Available at: dinner, lunch
- Brussels Sprouts: Organic Brussels sprouts, Tellicherry black pepper, smoked sea salt, sesame dipping sauce Dietary tags: Keto, Low-Carb, Vegan, Vegetarian, Halal, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free, Mediterranean, Whole30, Pescatarian, Paleo, Heart-Healthy, Plant-Based, Low-Sodium, Low-Fat, Anti-Inflammatory, Atkins, South-Beach, DASH Sodium-Reduced, Low-Cholesterol, GERD-Friendly, Zone, Volumetrics, TLC, Alkaline, Renal, Slow-Carb, Soy Free Available at: dinner, lunch
- Gluten-Free Mini Loaf: Fragrant mini-loaf served with butter Dietary tags: Vegetarian, Halal, Gluten-Free, Pescatarian, Low-Sodium, Anti-Inflammatory Available at: dinner, lunch
- Marinara and Pesto Pot: Served with house-made focaccia Dietary tags: Vegetarian, Halal, Pescatarian, Low-Sodium, Anti-Inflammatory Available at: dinner, lunch
- Portobello Mushroom Dripping with Gorgonzola: Roasted portobello, butter pastry, melted gorgonzola, balsamic reduction, white truffle-olive oil Dietary tags: Vegetarian, Halal, Pescatarian, Low-Sodium Available at: dinner, lunch
- Roast Chicken Skillet Appetizer: Mary’s free-range chicken breast, house-made barbecue sauce, house-made focaccia Available at: dinner, lunch
Salads and Soups
- Caesar Salad: Organic romaine, vegetarian caesar dressing, toasted walnuts, pecorino Romano Dietary tags: Halal, Pescatarian, Anti-Inflammatory Available at: dinner, lunch
- Chicken Soup: Mary’s chicken, organic vegetables, potatoes, organic sourdough bread Dietary tags: Heart-Healthy, Low-Sodium, Anti-Inflammatory, DASH Sodium-Reduced, Low-Cholesterol, TLC Available at: dinner, lunch
- Greek Salad: Organic romaine, organic cucumbers, kalamata olives, feta, organic tomatoes, pickled red onion, lemon-XV olive oil dressing Dietary tags: Vegetarian, Halal, Mediterranean, Pescatarian Available at: dinner, lunch
- House Salad: Organic baby greens, tomatoes, house-pickled cucumbers, balsamic vinaigrette Dietary tags: Vegan, Vegetarian, Halal, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free, Mediterranean, Whole30, Pescatarian, Paleo, Heart-Healthy, Plant-Based, Low-Sodium, Anti-Inflammatory, Atkins, South-Beach, DASH Sodium-Reduced, Low-Cholesterol, TLC, Alkaline, Slow-Carb, Soy Free Available at: dinner, lunch
- Mediterranean Salad: Sun-dried tomatoes, artichoke hearts, kalamata olives, Romano cheese, roasted pistachios, lemon dressing Dietary tags: High-Fiber Available at: dinner, lunch
- Shiitake Soup: Organic shiitake mushrooms, spinach, onions, miso-based vegan broth, organic sourdough bread Dietary tags: Vegan, Vegetarian, Halal, Dairy-Free, Pescatarian, Plant-Based, High-Fiber, Macrobiotic Available at: dinner, lunch
Main Courses
- Chicken Parmesan: Roasted Mary’s boneless chicken breast, organic marinara, fior di latte, pecorino Romano Dietary tags: Heart-Healthy, Low-Sodium, Anti-Inflammatory, DASH Sodium-Reduced, TLC Available at: dinner, lunch
- Chicken Pie: Flaky crust, Mary’s free-range chicken, organic potatoes, vegetables, chicken gravy Dietary tags: Heart-Healthy, Low-Sodium, Anti-Inflammatory, DASH Sodium-Reduced, GERD-Friendly, Zone, Volumetrics, TLC Available at: dinner, lunch
- Eggplant Parmesan: Organic eggplant, organic marinara sauce, provolone, pecorino romano Dietary tags: Vegetarian, Halal, Pescatarian, Heart-Healthy, Low-Sodium, Anti-Inflammatory, DASH Sodium-Reduced, TLC Available at: dinner, lunch
- Hand-Rolled Fettuccine: Hand-rolled fettuccine, Romano cheese. Choice of: Organic Marinara, Bolognese (pork), or Classic Pesto Available at: dinner, lunch
- Mo'le Plate: Mary’s free-range chicken breast. Choice of: Oaxaqueño, Poblano, or Amarillo sauce Dietary tags: Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free, Whole30, Paleo, Low-Sodium, High-Fiber, Renal, Soy Free Available at: dinner, lunch
- Mo'le Trio: Mary’s free-range chicken breast, served with Oaxaqueño, Poblano, and Amarillo sauces Dietary tags: Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free, Whole30, Paleo, Soy Free Available at: dinner, lunch
- Pasta Rosettes: Hand-rolled pasta, ricotta, Romano. Choice of: Marinara, Artichoke Cream, Bolognese, or Pesto Available at: dinner, lunch
- Polenta Plate: Corn, onions, eggs, asiago, provolone, Romano cheese Dietary tags: Vegetarian, Halal, Pescatarian, Low-Sodium, Anti-Inflammatory Available at: dinner, lunch
- Sesame-Ginger Salmon: Canadian King Salmon, gingery glaze, candied ginger, sesame seeds Dietary tags: Halal, Pescatarian, Heart-Healthy, Low-Sodium, Low-Cholesterol, TLC Available at: dinner, lunch
- Spicy Chocolate BBQ Pork: Free-range pork, dark chocolate barbecue sauce Dietary tags: High-Protein, Low-Sodium, High-Fiber, TLC, Renal Available at: dinner, lunch
- Vegan Mo'le: Roasted organic seasonal vegetable, Amarillo Mo'le sauce Dietary tags: Keto, Low-Carb, Vegan, Vegetarian, Halal, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free, Mediterranean, Whole30, Pescatarian, Paleo, Heart-Healthy, Plant-Based, Low-Sodium, Anti-Inflammatory, Atkins, South-Beach, DASH Sodium-Reduced, Low-Cholesterol, TLC, Alkaline, Renal, Macrobiotic, Slow-Carb, Soy Free Available at: dinner, lunch
Desserts
- Big Warm Cupcake: Chocolate cupcake, bittersweet chocolate ganache, whipped cream Dietary tags: Vegetarian, Halal, Pescatarian, Low-Sodium
- Canoli: Pastry tube, sweetened ricotta, house-candied oranges, bittersweet chocolate bits Dietary tags: Vegetarian, Halal, Pescatarian, Low-Sodium
- Cherry Chocolate Mousse Cake: Organic cherries, dark chocolate cake, chocolate mousse, bittersweet ganache Dietary tags: Vegetarian, Pescatarian, Low-Sodium, High-Fiber
- Chocolate Cream Pie: Columbian bittersweet chocolate custard, almond and chocolate crust Dietary tags: Vegetarian, Halal, Pescatarian, Low-Sodium, High-Fiber
- Chocolate Ecstasy Sundae: Darkest Chocolate gelato, bittersweet ganache, Ecstasy cake, whipped cream Dietary tags: Vegetarian, Halal, Pescatarian, Low-Sodium, High-Fiber
- Coconut Cheesecake: Fresh cream, coconut milk, almond flour crust, dark chocolate, shredded coconut Dietary tags: Vegetarian, Halal, Pescatarian, Low-Sodium, High-Fiber
- Coconut Cream Pie: Coconut custard, almond crust Dietary tags: Vegetarian, Halal, Pescatarian, Heart-Healthy, Low-Sodium, GERD-Friendly, TLC
- Dessert Orgy: Sampler platter of sweets Dietary tags: Vegan, Vegetarian, Halal, Dairy-Free, Pescatarian, Low-Sodium, Low-Cholesterol
- Dulce de Leche Torte: Triple-layer dark chocolate cake, caramelized Valrhona white chocolate cream, rum Dietary tags: Vegetarian, Pescatarian, Low-Sodium
- Ecstasy Cake: Strong dark chocolate cake, whipped cream Dietary tags: Vegetarian, Halal, Pescatarian, Low-Sodium
- Gelato: Choice of: Darkest Chocolate, Mint Chip, True Vanilla, Espresso, Coconut-Almond-Crunch, Salted Caramel Dietary tags: Vegetarian, Halal, Pescatarian, Low-Sodium
- Hot Fudge Sundae: True vanilla gelato, ganache, whipped cream, lady finger Dietary tags: Vegetarian, Halal, Pescatarian, Low-Sodium
- Sin Cake: Flourless cake with ground organic almonds, dark chocolate ganache, whipped cream Dietary tags: Vegetarian, Halal, Pescatarian, Low-Sodium
- The Titanic: Espresso gelato in espresso Dietary tags: Vegetarian, Halal, Pescatarian, Heart-Healthy, Low-Sodium, GERD-Friendly, TLC
- Tiramisu: Ladyfingers, mascarpone, espresso, rum, chocolate, espresso syrup Dietary tags: Vegetarian, Pescatarian, Low-Sodium
- Vanilla-Passion-Fruit Cheesecake: White chocolate-vanilla cheesecake, passion fruit curd, almond crust Dietary tags: Vegetarian, Halal, Pescatarian, Low-Sodium
Truffles
- Bittersweet Truffle: Dark chocolate shell, dark chocolate mousse, cocoa Dietary tags: Vegan, Vegetarian, Dairy-Free, Pescatarian, Low-Sodium, Low-Cholesterol
- Coconut Truffle: Coconut white chocolate mousse, dark chocolate, shredded coconut Dietary tags: Vegetarian, Dairy-Free, Pescatarian, Low-Sodium, High-Fiber, Renal
- Dark Rose Truffle: Dark chocolate-rose mousse, dark chocolate shell Dietary tags: Vegan, Vegetarian, Dairy-Free, Pescatarian, Low-Sodium, Renal
- Dozen Truffles: Assorted truffles Dietary tags: Vegan, Vegetarian, Halal, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free, Mediterranean, Whole30, Pescatarian, Paleo, Heart-Healthy, Plant-Based, Low-Sodium, Anti-Inflammatory, DASH Sodium-Reduced, Low-Cholesterol, TLC, Alkaline, AIP, Renal, Macrobiotic, Lectin-Free, Soy Free
- Fresh Mint Truffle: White chocolate mint mousse, fresh mint leaves, dark chocolate-mint shell Dietary tags: Vegetarian, Pescatarian, Low-Sodium, High-Fiber
- Hazelnut Truffle: Hazelnut milk chocolate mousse, hazelnut milk chocolate shell, chopped hazelnuts Dietary tags: Vegetarian, Pescatarian, Low-Sodium
- Mocha Truffle: Milk chocolate coffee mousse, milk chocolate shell Dietary tags: Vegetarian, Pescatarian, Low-Sodium
- White Rose Truffle: White chocolate rose-flavored mousse, white chocolate coating Dietary tags: Vegetarian, Pescatarian, Low-Sodium
Hot Chocolates
- Belga: Hazelnut chocolate from Belgium Dietary tags: Vegan, Vegetarian, Halal, Dairy-Free, Pescatarian, Low-Sodium, Low-Cholesterol
- Bianca: White chocolate Dietary tags: Vegetarian, Halal, Pescatarian, Low-Sodium
- Coca: Dark hot cocoa, coconut milk Dietary tags: Vegan, Vegetarian, Halal, Dairy-Free, Pescatarian, Plant-Based, Low-Sodium, Macrobiotic
- Frida: Mexican dark cocoa, cinnamon Dietary tags: Vegan, Vegetarian, Halal, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free, Whole30, Pescatarian, Paleo, Plant-Based, Low-Sodium, Alkaline, AIP, Renal, Macrobiotic, Lectin-Free, Soy Free
- Fuego: Dark cocoa, organic cinnamon, chipotle Dietary tags: Vegan, Vegetarian, Halal, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free, Whole30, Pescatarian, Paleo, Plant-Based, Low-Sodium, High-Fiber, Alkaline, Renal, Soy Free
- Lena: Milk chocolate Dietary tags: Vegetarian, Halal, Pescatarian, Low-Sodium
- Pantoufle: Dark chocolate, milk chocolate, cardamom Dietary tags: Vegetarian, Halal, Pescatarian, Low-Sodium
- Sofia: Dark Italian hot cocoa Dietary tags: Low-Carb, Vegan, Vegetarian, Halal, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free, Whole30, Pescatarian, Paleo, Plant-Based, Low-Sodium, South-Beach, Alkaline, AIP, Macrobiotic, Slow-Carb, Lectin-Free, Soy Free
- Tres Chiles: Dark chocolate, milk chocolate, cacao, ancho, guajillo, chipotle chiles, smoked salt Dietary tags: Vegetarian, Halal, Pescatarian, Low-Sodium, High-Fiber
- Vianne: Dark cocoa, ginger juice, honey, cardamom Dietary tags: Vegetarian, Halal, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free, Pescatarian, Paleo, Low-Sodium, Volumetrics, Renal, Macrobiotic, Lectin-Free, Soy Free
- Victoria: Columbian 70% bittersweet chocolate, extra cacao Dietary tags: Vegan, Vegetarian, Halal, Dairy-Free, Pescatarian, Low-Sodium, Low-Cholesterol, Renal
- Zenu: Colombian chocolate, water-based Dietary tags: Vegan, Vegetarian, Halal, Dairy-Free, Pescatarian, Low-Sodium
Frequently Asked Questions about Chocolate
- Which diets does this restaurant support based on its menu?
- The restaurant supports numerous diets including vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, keto, low-carb, dairy-free, mediterranean, and high-protein options across various dishes.
- How does this restaurant compare to others in the same cuisine type?
- This budget-friendly ($) American restaurant stands out with a 4.0/5 rating, featuring attentive service and a highly praised signature soup.
- What makes this restaurant unique or special?
- This restaurant is unique for its chocolate-infused craft mixology, featuring specialty cocktails like chocolate mezcal martinis and chocolate-raspberry rum.
- What should first-time visitors know about this restaurant?
- Visitors should expect a budget-friendly American spot featuring craft chocolate cocktails, delicious soup, and attentive service for special occasions.
- How many reviews does this restaurant have?
- The provided restaurant data does not contain information regarding the specific number of reviews for Chocolate.
- How can I contact this restaurant?
- Contact this restaurant by visiting their official website at https://chocolatesantacruz.com/ for further information and inquiries.
- What type of diner would most enjoy this restaurant?
- Diners seeking a sophisticated, budget-friendly evening of craft cocktails and decadent desserts in an inviting, celebratory atmosphere would enjoy this restaurant.
- What are the standout dishes based on the menu?
- Standout dishes include the antipasto platter, Brussels sprouts, chicken pie, and various desserts like the chocolate cream pie and truffles.
- Does this restaurant have good options for group dining with mixed dietary needs?
- With extensive options including vegan, gluten-free, keto, and dairy-free dishes like Brussels sprouts and various truffles, this restaurant accommodates diverse dietary needs.
- Is this a good spot for a date or special occasion?
- This sophisticated spot is ideal for special occasions, offering attentive service and an inviting ambiance that makes celebrations feel personal.
- Is Chocolate dairy-free-friendly?
- Yes. Chocolate has 19 dairy-free-tagged dishes on its current menu, including Brussels Sprouts, Dessert Orgy and Dark Rose Truffle.
- What can I eat at Chocolate on a dairy-free diet?
- Brussels Sprouts, Dessert Orgy and Dark Rose Truffle carry the dairy-free tag, out of 19 tagged dishes on the current menu. Every dish's diet tags are listed in the menu.
- Does Chocolate have vegan options?
- Yes. 24 dishes are tagged vegan on the current menu, including Brussels Sprouts and Dessert Orgy.
- Is Chocolate gluten-free?
- 11 dishes are tagged gluten-free on the current menu. Chefi never infers allergen tags from a dish name alone, but a tag is not a certification — confirm preparation with the restaurant if you have celiac disease or a severe sensitivity.
- What is the highest-protein dish at Chocolate?
- Tres Chiles, at roughly 50.4g of protein (estimated from ingredients).
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