Bittersweet Bistro - Rio Del Mar

During the novel corona virus pandemic, we could only order take out for our anniversary. We ordered all starters: the asparagus speared with dipping sauce, a roasted pear salad, and a shrimp in aioli. The asparagus spears are cornmeal and sesame crusted with just a hint of sweetness, always one of our favorites. The salad, besides a roasted pear, had hazelnuts and blue cheese, good. The shrimp dish was much too sweet for my tastes, but the shrimp was succulent. They threw in a custard and a chocolate pudding that were both delicious and much appreciated!

I can see returning in warmer weather to enjoy the large, pet friendly patio or possibly a sports event in the equally large bar area but as other posts pointed out the dining room experience was mixed. Food and wait service was excellent but bus staff was overly anxious to clear plates overall creating a rushed vibe. Ambiance was unsettled. We were seated in extremely close proximity to another party of in an otherwise empty large dining room making us feel like Intruders on their evening and vice versa. The price for all menu items felt higher than the norm and there was a surcharge on top of that for labor and operations. There are just better options for an evening out in Santa Cruz.

Great food, great ambience, comfortable. Only issue was feeling rushed by waitstaff — dinner arrived before we were done with the shared appetizer.

We love the food at Bittersweet. Our server was also very nice and did the best she could, but was challenged by the kitchen and hostess stand. The young lady seating us was not welcoming or polite and seemed to view us as an inconvenience, anxious to get back to prancing around the restaurant and having people notice her. The restaurant was extremely loud, which I know it is the new trend to simulate excitement and energy, but some noise-canceling panels would help a lot at Bittersweet. I recommend the deserts and beef stroganoff. In short, great food but the price point doesn't seem to line up with the experience.

This was my first time at Bittersweet. The Food, Service and Drinks were outstanding. Can't wait to go back. They even serve CBD Water...woo hoo