Café Limelight

Best Panino Sandwich that I ever had in any restaurant. The crunch on the bread was exquisite and the filling of each of the Panini was perfect. We had the classic clubhouse, artichoke, and caprese. All three were mind-boggling. I would recommend this restaurant and it's singular Focus on making the best of 1 item. So many fail by trying to be too diverse on their menu and everything is mediocre instead of having one fabulous food. The atmosphere in the restaurant with the soft background music and the masks on the wall and eclectic decor was perfect again. Try the dessert...We shared a Brownie Sundae... The owner presented the Brownie Sundae vertically in a goblet topped with whipped cream... which made it also unique... plus it was tasty.

My mom and I each ordered a half panino and half soup combo for lunch. They were absolutely delicious, with perfect crusty toasted bread and cheesy fillings. I got the caprese with pesto, mozzarella, and tomatoes, she got the artichoke hearts, mozzarella, and red pepper pesto. Her lentil soup was spicy, hearty, flavorful. I was so sad I couldn’t really eat any since I am allergic, but I snuck a tiny bite for flavor and paid with a mild allergic reaction (not recommended, but was worth it). I got the tomato soup, which was a nice side to the sandwich. There were several other interesting vegetarian sandwich options, and also a make your own grilled cheese section. I recommend coming here for a delicious filling lunch!

Decor is a bit creepy for me with some scary masks, felt a bit voodoo-esque, but perhaps that is the charm. Dark, cozy, mysterious. I would not want to be trapped there at night.

A favorite lunch spot for quality sandwich and salad in a relaxing atmosphere. Check out the amazing fish tanks!

Probably my favorite food place in the world. The BBQ chicken sandwich and salad is THE BEST... I've moved away from Santa Cruz but still think about it often. Owner Farouk is super nice and extremely funny!

You always know exactly what you'll get at Cafe Limelight: awesome paninis, friendly service, jazz, and an atmosphere that feels like hanging out at your best friend's house (the quirky one with the collection of masks and movie memorabilia). Be sure to read the whole menu - there's a section for your canine buddies, too.

Simple menu full of fresh, delicious food, served in a laid-back and eclectic atmosphere. Beer and house wine served alongside fresh brewed teas make this cafe a great place to unwind!

Delightful as usual. Introduced a friend to the place. Go early for lunch or you will have to wait for a table. Excellent food, cater to individual tastes or dietary requirements and fresh, fresh, fresh! My favorite go to for light, fresh faire!

I can always count on a great meal and good service. I love the menu and the eclectic options. Gluten free is available no charge! I highly recommend.

Relaxing atmosphere, really tasty, simple food, and nice staff - I love this place. Always a feel-good dining experience.

A hidden gem in Santa Cruz. Delicious, and large paninis most for 10 to 12 dollars. Plenty of vegetarian options in a laid back old time cinema setting.

Great food. Great space. Great guys. Paninis, salads and soups that always impress. Have one, and have a great day!

Can't get over this place. Absolutely great ambiance, friendly staff and a fantastic menu. This is a new regular spot for me.

Amazing Turkey, Pesto, Brie sandwich with light salad. Great dressing. Definitely coming again.

Paninis are the best around. The ambience is perfect. This is my favorite place to sit for a long long lunch; read and relax.

Great place to eat right before you catch a movie. Can't beat a grilled cheese sandwich and tomato soup. Mmmm.

Great food and great service. Paninis are wonderful as are the homemade soups.

Great experience with lip-smacking food and awesome ambiance.

Delicious and fresh panini! Thoughtful and helpful staff too. We'll be back.

Excellent panini and soup in a nice outdoor cafe / bistro atmosphere.

Delicious food, unique chill atmosphere and excellent customer service!