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In Santa Cruz, California, an innovative food and beverage industry is thriving, fueled by entrepreneurial spirit, a commitment to sustainability, and a love for quality products. This coastal paradise isn’t just a hub for burgeoning tech startups. In fact, it features an impressive landscape of companies transforming the way we eat and drink. From purveyors of artisan coffee to healthy food innovators, these companies have something delicious and meaningful to offer.
What sets these businesses apart is their commitment to quality, their innovative approach to their products, and their distinct connection to the local community. They are proof that a focus on sustainable, innovative food production is not only possible, but also profitable and in demand. This article highlights some of the revered food and beverage brands operating out of Santa Cruz today.
As we explore these companies, you’ll see the story of Santa Cruz’s food scene is a story of its people: creative, sustainability-minded, and deeply invested in their community. With their unique offerings, these companies are shaping Santa Cruz into an epicenter of California’s food and beverage industry.
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Gooder Foods
Founded by Jennifer Zeszut, Gooder Foods is redefining comfort food with a healthy twist. Their reinvention of Mac & Cheese is not only stealthily healthy but also unbelievably delicious. Launched in 2020, this innovative company operates from Santa Cruz creating waves in the food processing industry. Connect with them on LinkedIn.
Pescavore
Founded by Clarice Owens, Corbin Hanson, Matthew Owens and Nick Jurlin, Pescavore is changing the game in the seafood industry. They provide plant-based tuna snacks that are sustainably harvested, directly confronting environmental and social problems. Check out their Facebook. | LinkedIn.
Verve Coffee Roasters
Initiated by Colby Barr and Ryan O’Donovan, Verve Coffee Roasters is keeping the craft coffee movement alive on the West Coast. They deliver a high-quality coffee experience from their stores all the way to your home. Tweet them | Facebook.
Santa Cruz Nutritionals
A leader in the Health Care and Agriculture industry, Santa Cruz Nutritionals introduces a holistic approach to dietary supplements, striving for the highest quality, safest and most effective products.
TableTime
TableTime, the most innovative platform for restaurant industry data and analytics collection and reporting, is a B2B SaaS company co-founded by Cecil Worsley IV and Pete D’Abrosca. They aim to help restaurants increase margins and revenue alike.
New Leaf Community Markets
New Leaf Community Markets strives to inspire and nourish the community by offering the best of the fresh, local, organic, and delicious food scene. LinkedIn | Facebook | Twitter.
Cat & Cloud Coffee
Cat & Cloud Coffee is more than a roastery and a chain of cafes. It is about creating memorable experiences through coffee. Twitter | Facebook | LinkedIn.
Marroquin Organic
Marroquin Organic offers nutrient-rich food options across several categories, including prepared meals, ice cream, pet food, and more. Connect with them on LinkedIn.
YES CACAO
YES CACAO is an online manufacturer and retailer of chocolate bars with a focus on sustainability and wellness, disrupting the conventional chocolate industry. Twitter | Facebook | LinkedIn.
Risen Labs
Risen Labs is a Santa Cruz-based cannabis brand that crafts the finest flowers and botanical oils for their popular Risen cartridges and concentrates. Check out their Facebook.
Humble Sea Brewing Co.
Humble Sea Brewing Co. offers craft beers and merchandises including t-shirts, hats, and glassware. Tweet them | Facebook | LinkedIn.
