Lillian's Italian Kitchen

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(2,922)

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1148 Soquel Ave

Santa Cruz, CA 95062

+1 (831) 425-2288

https://www.lilliansitaliankitchen.com

Lillian’s Italian Kitchen opened quietly on July 4, 2007. It’s a joint venture of the owners, Joe and Charlotte Moreno and their sons Chris and Matt. Long time residents of Santa Cruz, the Moreno’s dream was to open a neighborhood place that was an extension of their family kitchen. The inspiration was Grandma Lilly’s wonderful home cooking. Lillian was devoted to family and friends and her life was greatly fulfilled by her love and passion for cooking. Born in Yonkers, New York, Lillian was able to combine traditional Sicilian recipes learned from her parents and the many Italian influences in her neighborhood. Executive Chef Chris honors Lillian’s family recipes as well as offering a variety of fresh and creative additions to the menu while Matt makes sure guests feel at home. Good food, good friends, great prices and straight from the heart. Tutti a mangiare!

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Reviews

4.52,922 reviews

Tiffany S.

8/6/2025

Haven't been here in over a decade! It was such a pleasant surprise to see that the hole in the wall Italian place expanded so much over the last few years. I remember the old location you had...

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Krisstina C.

7/19/2025

A great restaurant to satisfy your pasta cravings! Their menu offered a variety of different pastas and salads. They also had an extensive alcohol menu. We made a reservation at dinner time...

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Daniel A.

7/11/2025

My wife and I had dinner tonight at Lillian's Italian Kitchen in Santa Cruz, and I have to say--this place is very, very good. In fact, it's the best of the best. No exaggeration. From the moment...

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Audra N.

9/22/2025

Popular spot especially for move in UCSC weekend. We had to wait 30 min but it was worth it. Cheerful bartender, hosts and servers. Friendly and good service - they have a lot of staff helping....

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Doug L.

7/7/2025

We came around opening and parked in the back of the restaurant where there was a large lot. We did not make reservations but that was no problem given how early it was. Surprisingly a few...

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