As for many who mix drinks for a living, the pandemic was a sad, scary time for Santa Cruz County bartender Emmanuel Hernandez. His “Mezcalito Mixers” side hustle helped, but there’s nothing like creating cocktails and interacting with patrons from behind a bar — and he’s thrilled to be back at.
Food & Drink
Posted inPolitics & Policy
Universal basic income for farmworkers? Some leaders are pushing for it
A Fresno-area politician wants California to prioritize struggling San Joaquin Valley farmworkers in a proposed pilot program that would put cash in the hands of some of the state’s impoverished residents.
Posted inBusiness & Technology
‘Our locals kept us alive’ — and so did outdoor dining: a push for Scotts Valley restaurants to stay outside
With restaurants, politicians and community members seemingly all-in on outdoor dining, bureaucratic hurdles could be the only thing keeping Scotts Valley from making it permanent before a city ordinance expires at year’s end.
Posted inPandemic Life
California extends outdoor dining, to-go drinks through Dec. 31
Even as the state prepares to lift coronavirus restrictions on June 15, some changes such as outdoor dining and to-go drinks will likely remain in many California cities. Gov. Gavin Newsom announced pandemic extensions through Dec. 31.
Posted inFood & Drink
Fermenting bad behavior? #MeToo craft beer moment hits Santa Cruz, but strong women fight for equity
Recent #MeToo allegations have rocked the artisan beer world — including allegations levied at industry darling Humble Sea Brewing Co. here in Santa Cruz County. Now the allegations are spurring female leaders in the brewing industry to speak up about the culture and push for inclusivity and clearer lines in the workplace.
Posted inUncategorized
Let’s hang at The Neighbor’s: LGBT-centric cafe, pub would fill gap in Santa Cruz scene
Downtown Santa Cruz is sorely lacking in establishments catering to the LGBT community — something Frankie Farr is aiming to change with their plans for a “queer café and pub that gives back.”
Posted inUncategorized
Oaxaca Norte, con mucho mole: Santa Cruz’s Copal zeroes in on distinctive Mexican culture and cuisine
Almost a year after “a really long soft opening,” Copal is finally ready to brings its full vision of the cuisine and aesthetic of Oaxaca to Santa Cruz diners.
Posted inEnvironment
Craving fresh salmon? They’re coming in by the boatload at Santa Cruz harbor
The salmon fishery is very carefully managed and is only open in certain areas for certain weeks during the summer. So far, only Monterey Bay has opened—first for May 1-12, and now May 20-27. Fishing boats from all over are now congregating in Monterey Bay and offloading their catch in Santa Cruz.
Posted inUncategorized
The Breakfast Burrito Empire: Pleasure Point favorite makes its mark on Westside
The Point Market on East Cliff Drive has expanded its reach to four outlets, including Pacific Point Market & Cafe between downtown and the wharf — and the breakfast burrito is leading the way.
Posted inFood & Drink
Another sign of normalcy: The Scotts Valley Art, Wine & Beer Festival is on!
One of Scotts Valley’s premier events will be back up and running in August after a pandemic pause. Here’s what you need to know.