
Jack O'Neill kept life simple; he was into one thing — the ocean — and not much else.
Jack O'Neill Restaurant and Lounge located at Dream Inn. Come enjoy the best of Santa Cruz dining, and full ocean views. Our menu offers selections for the whole family and ingredients and libations all sourced locally.
Open Hours
- Breakfast
7:00AM - 11:00AM
- Brunch
11:00AM - 2:00PM
- Jack's Lounge
11:30AM - 10:00PM
- Dinner
5:00PM - 9:00PM
Meet
Executive Chef Michelle Gomez
Executive Chef Michelle Gomez brings a fresh, globally inspired perspective to the kitchen at Jack O’Neill Restaurant & Lounge. A Le Cordon Bleu–trained chef with a background in luxury hospitality, Michelle’s culinary journey has taken her from Hawaii and the Caribbean to Spain, France, Portugal, Monaco, and Morocco.
Now in Santa Cruz, she’s inspired by the place itself; from the farmers and fisheries of the Central Coast to the easygoing energy, creativity, and unmistakable coastal character of the community.
Her style is elevated yet approachable, with seasonal ingredients, bold flavors, and menus designed to feel right at home by the ocean.
For Michelle, great food should reflect where you are. At Jack O’Neill, that means celebrating Santa Cruz on the plate, which is fresh, local, colorful, and connected to the coast.
Santa Cruz, Through and Through
Jack loved Northern California for its beaches. We love it for its food, and for good reason too. Regional ingredients drive our menu: Our fresh-caught seafood comes right from the Monterey Bay following all sustainability standards, and our seasonal produce is sourced from a number of area farmers. It sets us apart from other downtown Santa Cruz restaurants; why go global when local does just fine?
Live Music & Local Cuisine
Whether you're a Santa Cruz local or simply hanging ten for the weekend, we invite you to join us for Live Music at Jack O'Neill Restaurant. Sing and sway to some of the area's top musicians every week. Check out some of our holiday specials or enjoy Jack's signature cocktails and snack on our seasonal coastal bites.
A Gift for Food Lovers
Whether you're craving waves or a fresh fish filet, a day by the water is best spent with friends. Feeling the NorCal spirit? Purchase a gift card and treat your loved ones to a laid-back meal.

