When asking yourself about something to do near me in Santa Cruz with a group of friends or family, consider
Hindquarter Bar & Grille
Why Hindquarter Bar & Grille is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Hindquarter Bar & Grille, established in 1988 and located at 303 Soquel Avenue in Santa Cruz, CA, is a vibrant dining destination renowned for its succulent steaks, fresh seafood, and smoked specialties. This establishment offers a warm, welcoming ambiance that makes it an ideal spot for friends to gather for lunch, dinner, or happy hour. The menu emphasizes mouth-watering beef dishes such as prime rib and choice sirloins, but it also caters to diverse tastes with seafood, chicken, pork chops, ribs, pasta, and vegetarian options. Guests can enjoy a full bar with a variety of cocktails and a friendly happy hour available Monday through Saturday. The presence of an enclosed patio seating area adds a comfortable environment for groups, making it great for socializing. Additionally, televisions throughout the bar enhance the atmosphere for sports fans. With payment options including cash and all major credit cards, plus convenient parking, Hindquarter Bar & Grille provides a full-service experience that balances excellent food with a classic bar and grill vibe. This combination of quality cuisine and convivial atmosphere has helped it become a treasured local hub for casual yet satisfying dining experiences.
Here's what people think of Hindquarter Bar & Grille
As of recent, Hindquarter Bar & Grille holds a 4.2-star rating based on 691 reviews.
The reviews for Hindquarter Bar & Grille reflect a strong overall appreciation, with a solid 4.2-star rating based on nearly 700 reviews. Patrons frequently praise the restaurant for its tender, juicy steaks and well-prepared seafood, specifically noting delicious dishes like smoked pork chops, prime rib, and fresh salmon. Positive reviewers often highlight the friendly, neighborhood 'Cheers'-like atmosphere, exceptional happy hour specials, and the friendly, attentive staff. Many commend the casual yet quality dining experience that makes it a dependable choice for both regular visits and vacationers seeking hearty American classics. On the negative side, some reviews point out that prices can be higher compared to similar establishments, and a few diners expressed dissatisfaction with certain dishes not meeting their expectations. However, these critiques tend to be less common and often relate to individual taste preferences rather than service or ambiance. Overall, the consensus underscores that Hindquarter Bar & Grille successfully combines great food with a welcoming setting, making it a favored spot in Santa Cruz for both locals and visitors alike.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Byron Cann
A true classic restaurant. Mandy was my server. Very kind, knowledgeable. Professional and friendly. A rare combination. I had the smoked prime rib, a Wednesday special. Beware!!! It's huge. Baked potato (with all you could ask for) and steamed veggies. Au jus, horseradish sauce. Perfect dinner. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a lovely, comfortable restaurant with great food and a friendly staff.
Kathy Nordeen
Happy Hour menu was awesome with special cocktails and delicious entrees. Good prices too! I had the Margarita which comes paired with the carnitas taco (really flavorful). My friend had black and blue mahi served like sushi with several sauces and some the special cocktail to go with. We finished off with the Maryland blue-crab cakes. Also delicious (and I know, growing up near the Chesapeake Bay! Service was great and fast, nice because we were hungry! We can't wait to go back...
J K
It's not a loud "hip" place. Grab your food, your drink, sit and chill.. the locals are solid down to earth. The staff are a pillar of the community. Would take my wife there again.
Cheryl Noon
It’s been quite some time since I’ve eaten at Hindquarter so the bf and I decided to give it a go for a late afternoon lunch. Our waitress was very kind and attentive. We ordered chicken wings as an appetizer. They didn’t have buffalo available so we ordered Thai sweet chili. They were pretty good. I only wish the serving was more than 5 wings. I would have happily paid more for a few more wings to make it a shareable serving. For my entree, I ordered the prime rib which came with mixed vegetables and a baked potato. My bf ordered the hanger steak with mashed potatoes, mixed vegetables and onion strings. Neither meal was remarkable, but they weren’t bad. An iced tea, coke, appetizer and two meals came in under $100. That was a pleasant surprise. Hindquarter won’t be added to our list of go to’s, but it’s certainly not a never go again.
Adri Richards
After a long travel day flying in from Seattle and navigating the twists of CA-17, I was more than ready for a great meal. Thankfully, Hindquarter Bar & Grille was just around the corner from my hotel, and I couldn’t have picked a better spot for my first night in Santa Cruz. I happened to arrive on a Wednesday, which meant prime rib was on the specials menu—lucky timing! The meal was exactly what I needed. But what made the experience even better was the service. Daniela, my server, was fantastic. Not only was she attentive and friendly, but when she found out I was visiting the area for the first time, she went above and beyond by jotting down recommendations for local coffee shops and dessert spots.
How to reach Hindquarter Bar & Grille
None
Website: None
Why rally at Hindquarter Bar & Grille with your friends?
When searching for the perfect place to gather with friends or family, Hindquarter Bar & Grille in Santa Cruz stands out as a prime destination that combines warm atmosphere, quality food, and a welcoming community vibe. With a solid rating of 4.2 from nearly 700 reviews, this establishment has clearly won the hearts of many locals and visitors alike. The inviting and comfortable environment creates an ideal backdrop for a variety of social occasions, whether catching up after a long week or celebrating a special milestone. What truly differentiates Hindquarter is the authentic connection between the staff and patrons, which yields an atmosphere that feels less like a typical bar and more like a home away from home. Patrons frequently comment on the familial spirit fostered by the long-term staff and management, who have been part of the community for decades. This level of personal care ensures everyone feels valued and relaxed, setting the stage for memorable evenings filled with laughter and camaraderie. Whether you are planning a casual meet-up or a lively celebration, Hindquarter Bar & Grille balances great food, attentive service, and a friendly crowd, making it the ultimate rallying point to reconnect and enjoy quality time together.
What kind of activities and ambiance make Hindquarter Bar & Grille perfect for group meetups?
Hindquarter Bar & Grille offers a rich blend of activities and features tailored to enhance group gatherings. The bar area is a lively hub perfect for conversations over well-crafted drinks, including a variety of draft beers, cocktails, and house wines. From 2:30 to 5:30 pm Monday through Saturday, the restaurant hosts a popular happy hour where drinks like well drinks, house wines, and local draft beers are available at attractive prices, encouraging groups to unwind in a relaxed setting. The venue’s interior exudes a warm, inviting atmosphere with décor that complements both casual hangouts and special event vibes. Additionally, the venue often appeals to those who appreciate a sports bar ambiance, with screens showing various sports to keep everyone engaged. But beyond just drinks and décor, the true activity lies in social interaction—whether playing billiards, sharing stories at the bar, or enjoying the communal dining experience. The strong sense of community is supported by seasoned staff who know regulars by name, adding a personal touch that elevates the group experience. It's a place where laughter, good company, and tasty food converge, making any meetup feel like a cherished gathering.
What type of food and drinks can groups expect at Hindquarter Bar & Grille?
Hindquarter Bar & Grille's menu is thoughtfully designed to cater to diverse palates, making it an excellent choice for groups with varied tastes. The eatery is known for standout dishes such as hearty steaks, succulent pork ribs, tender pork chops, and fresh seafood options, offering something more special than everyday bar food. Their culinary offerings strike a pleasing balance between classic American flavors and thoughtful modern touches, ensuring that both regular patrons and newcomers find satisfying options. The food quality, particularly the flavor profile, receives consistent praise for its bold, savory notes. Although reviews mention occasional inconsistencies, the overall impression is of a dependable menu well-suited for sharing. On the beverage side, the bar serves an impressive selection of drinks including well-crafted cocktails, house wines, and local draft beers from respected breweries—excellent choices to complement meals or simply enjoy during a casual drink. For those who appreciate happy hours, the extended mid-afternoon specials provide a prime opportunity to try drinks at reduced prices, perfect for group outings. This combination of hearty, flavorful food and a robust drink menu makes Hindquarter Bar & Grille a top choice for groups looking to enjoy both good eats and great times.
How does Hindquarter Bar & Grille support a welcoming and friendly environment for groups?
One of the most defining features of Hindquarter Bar & Grille is its staff's dedication to creating a welcoming environment that feels genuinely like a second home for many patrons. The restaurant prides itself on long-term staff retention, with managers and team members often serving for many years, fostering a stable and familiar atmosphere. This longevity cultivates deep connections not only among employees but also between staff and customers, facilitating personalized service that makes groups feel valued and respected from arrival to departure. The management’s family-oriented philosophy resonates with the clientele, generating a communal environment where patrons often know one another and interact warmly, further enriching the social experience. The staff’s attentiveness ensures that group needs, whether dietary preferences or seating arrangements, are smoothly handled, helping meetups proceed comfortably without hassle. Even occasional hiccups with service or food preparation tend to be met with genuine responsiveness aimed at making amends. This level of care transforms the venue into more than just a bar or grill—it becomes a community gathering place where friendship and inclusion are at the forefront, making it an outstanding choice for hosting your next group event.
What makes Hindquarter Bar & Grille a great venue for celebrations and special occasions?
For those looking to commemorate birthdays, anniversaries, or other milestones, Hindquarter Bar & Grille offers an inviting backdrop that balances a casual vibe with quality dining and attentive service. Many guests praise how the staff step up to make special occasions memorable, often offering personalized touches such as complimentary desserts or thoughtful acknowledgments. The venue’s sizeable seating options and flexible layout comfortably accommodate group sizes ranging from intimate parties to larger celebrations, allowing for easy social interaction and lively ambiance without feeling overcrowded. With its combination of tasty, hearty food and an extensive drink menu, guests can enjoy an entire evening of food, drinks, and good times in one spot. The bar’s happy hour further adds value by giving celebrants and their guests the chance to enjoy premium drinks at reduced prices, enhancing the festive atmosphere. Even though the occasional food preparation issue has been noted, the overall service ethos is geared towards customer satisfaction, creating a reliable experience for hosts and guests alike. Thus, Hindquarter Bar & Grille serves as an excellent venue for group celebrations where everyone can relax, indulge, and enjoy each other’s company in a warm, vibrant setting.
How accessible and convenient is Hindquarter Bar & Grille for group meetups?
Located at 303 Soquel Ave in Santa Cruz, Hindquarter Bar & Grille is centrally placed to attract locals and visitors seeking a comfortable and easily accessible gathering spot. The restaurant’s opening hours throughout the week and weekend (Monday through Saturday, with midday to early evening hours) accommodate a broad range of scheduling needs for group meetups. Although the venue is closed on Sundays, the other six days of the week provide ample opportunity to plan events at convenient times. Given it is a popular local spot, it is advisable for larger groups to contact the establishment ahead to arrange reservations or special accommodations, as it is not listed on common booking platforms like OpenTable. Parking and nearby transit options further support convenience for guests arriving from different parts of the city. The location's walkable neighborhood setting makes it appealing for spontaneous gatherings as well. All these factors combined ensure that Hindquarter Bar & Grille is both a practical and inviting choice when organizing group meetups without complexity or stress.
What do reviewers say about the overall experience at Hindquarter Bar & Grille?
Across many reviews, the recurring praise for Hindquarter Bar & Grille centers on its friendly service, comfortable ambiance, and flavorful food. Patrons often highlight the staff’s familiarity and warmth, suggesting a long-standing rapport with many customers, which adds to the charm and appeal. Some reviews note the casual and somewhat nostalgic sports bar vibe, providing a relaxed environment for groups that value both good food and lively social energy. The happy hour specials are frequently mentioned as a particular highlight, drawing in crowds looking for reasonably priced drinks and a relaxed atmosphere to catch up. Nevertheless, a few reviews caution about occasional inconsistencies in food preparation, though these instances tend to be balanced by the overall positive dining and service experiences. The general consensus portrays Hindquarter Bar & Grille as a dependable local institution where groups can expect a relaxed and enjoyable time. The blend of seasoned staff, community focus, solid menu choices, and a welcoming environment makes it a standout option for those looking to host meetups with friends and family.
In summary, Hindquarter Bar & Grille's strengths lie in its community-oriented atmosphere, diverse menu with comforting favorites, attractive happy hour offerings, and attentive long-term staff—all of which create an ideal environment for social gatherings, meetups, and celebrations. Whether you seek a casual hangout or a lively night out with friends, Hindquarter Bar & Grille provides a dependable and welcoming setting to enjoy great food, drinks, and company.