Sugo Italian Pasta Bar

Such a great addition to Midtown SantaCruz! Hubby and I went after a friend recommended Sugo. We had such a great dinner! Prompt, attentive service, and incredible menu with vegetarian and gluten free options. Great cozy, clean, bustling atmosphere. After sharing a salad-plenty for two- I enjoyed the Mushroom ravioli. Hubby had a very nicely done margherita pizza. We will definitely be back, and try the order to pickup as well.

By far the best dining experience I've had since being in Italy a year and a half ago. And easily the best dining experience in Santa Cruz since long before the pandemic. Sofia made it so special. How would I describe her service, knowledge, and engagement, you ask? "Essere in gamba!" She provided informed recommendations that hit the mark, showing a mastery of the menu and wine list. She was engaging and personable, exhibiting the professionalism and pride in restaurant work that is standard in Italy, not so much here. As someone with celiac, she immediately understood and gave me the sort of reassurance and support that is rare in the US. Offering gluten-free pasta was what attracted me to Sugo in the first place. Fortunately the food did not disappoint. More people would eat anchovies if they tasted like the ones served on the Caesar Salad. The seafood in the (gluten-free) pasta allo scoglia was delicious and fresh: not at all fishy. Finishing off with affogato made with pistachio gelato put the exclamation point on a great meal. We ate in the outdoor area in the back parking lot. If this had been a movie, when we walked out we would have found ourselves strolling the streets of a charming village in Marche. But winding up in the warm sun in Santa Cruz on a beautiful autumn afternoon was just great too. Tornerò!