East End Gastropub - Capitola

Ended my day trip to Santa cruz at East End Gastropub! Started with the braised beef bao buns and the razzle dazzle cocktail. The buns were very soft and fluffy and the beef was very tender. However before I could even fully bite it, the folded part of the bun broke from the sogginess and the meat fell out. I wish it was a little less soggy and I wish there was a little more of an acidic factor to break through the weight of the bun and meat arugula wasn't quite enough . The razzle dazzle not pictured was bright and refreshing, however frothing particularly special. Marrakesh chicken: Really good. The meat was juicy and the lemon yogurt sauce paired really well with the flavors on the plate. Really solid dish 5/5 California Halibut: Unfortunately my halibut was overcooked : Although i didn't take a picture, the inside was very dry and made for a weird mouthfeel because it had to be chewed a lot more. The avocado crema was good and the corn salsa was very summery 3/5 because of the fish . Fries: Now THIS was the star of the show. My other two friends got entrees with fries and these were probably the best fries I've ever had. I believe they were beer battered, but the fry on them was fantastic. They weren't oily, they stayed crispy through the entire meal, and they were perfectly salted. I cannot stress enough how good the fries were 6/5!!! We didn't have to wait too long for the food and our server was very helpful. I really liked the interior and the volume wasn't too loud. Would come back for the fries :

Great place for happy hour eats! Mini tacos, wings were hot and fresh. Service was casual. The prices were affordable for apps. Didn't try the pizza

I love this place first of all. My spouse and I really enjoy coming here. The drinks are fun and creative the food is good. They really got a good thing going on. I did just have my first disappointment tonight. The Marrakesh Chicken, it was either missing a component or was just meh. $28 was a lot for a chicken leg, yogurt sauce and a scoop of couscous with under cooked veg in it. I should have said something when I was there, but the waiter actually never asked, and I didn't want to be a complainer. We went home they can't all be winners. The more I thought about it I thought they should probably hear the feedback. On a positive note my cheese burger was mmm great the fries oooh perfect. Drinks were delicious too.

We've been here quite a bit since my last review. Thought I'd add some pictures. Cocktails, mocktails, and pizza are usually my go to! The service is as expected for being busy but still super friendly and accommodating. The atmosphere is lively and fun yet you can still hold a conversation without yelling.

I love their simple weekend menu and you can always head back during the week for the full menu options. The fried chicken is the bomb, great staff and service.