Food: 5 stars. Service: 3 stars. The food was excellent and made the visit worthwhile. The staff, however, came across as a bit cold and unfriendly. I get that it's beach time and things move at a different pace, but being a little nicer to customers and visitors would make a big difference. Hopefully next time the service will be as good as the food. EDITED - Saturday, June 20, 2026 I'm updating my review after reading the owner's response. First, I want to clarify that the response appears to be a copy-and-paste message aimed at people leaving negative reviews. If you had actually read my original review, you would have noticed that I never complained about the food, the wait time, prices, staffing, or anything related to the quality of the business itself. In fact, I enjoyed the food and had no issue waiting. I visited on a Thursday, and the café wasn't packed. The owner was clearly working hard, and I respect that. However, when I walked in and said hello, I was completely ignored. There was no greeting, no acknowledgment, and no sense that my business was appreciated. That was the only reason I left a 3-star review in the first place. The response talks about staffing shortages, minimum wage, food costs, and the challenges of running a small business. I understand all of that. Running a business is difficult. But those challenges don't really address the point I was making. A simple "Hi," "Welcome," or even a quick smile costs nothing and goes a long way. I also don't think customers should be made to feel responsible for business challenges such as labor costs or rent. Those are realities of ownership that every business owner has to navigate. That said, after thinking about it, I'm changing my review from 3 stars to 5 stars because the food was genuinely good, and I do support small businesses. My hope is simply that future customers are greeted with a little more warmth and appreciation when they walk through the door. One final thought: when someone leaves a critical review, it may be worth responding directly to their experience rather than posting a generic response. Sometimes there's valuable feedback hidden inside reviews that aren't really about the food at all. I wish you and your business success, and I genuinely hope you continue serving great food for years to come. read more

We found this hidden gem by accident while walking. As we walked in, we were greeted by a very friendly gentleman. I ordered a latte with almond milk, and it was made to perfection--smooth, rich, and nicely strong. My husband had a mocha with almond milk, which he also really enjoyed. He added a poppy seed muffin that was served warm and was very good--a nice touch. The inside of the café is cozy and welcoming. We decided to take our coffee to go and sit by the beach, which is just one block away. We will definitely be back." read more

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We got sandwiches and clam chowder from here to eat at the beach. The food was outstanding! I got the tri tip whaler and loved the smoked tritip, the grilled bell peppers, and the tangy bbq sauce. I also appreciated how crispy the roll got when they grilled the sandwich. My son got the clam chowder and it was creamy and delicious, and also had generous amounts of delicious clam. read more

Castagnola Deli & Cafe - Tri tip whaler - Cafes Near Me - Capitola, California

This is a must every time we come to capitola. The clam chowder is the star of this place. First time having it without a sourdough bowl but it still worth the drive out here. It comes with garlic bread- cheese can be left out. The chowder is creamy enough. Great service and weather permitting, outdoor tables are a good way to people watch and take in the sea village read more

Castagnola Deli & Cafe - Clam Chowder - Cafes Near Me - Capitola, California

4.5 stars. My husband ordered online and I left quickly to go get it because I wanted time to sit and read while I waited. The owner was on a break when I came in but came in shortly after. He told me it'd be a wait which I expected and it was perfectly fine, he got right to work and they were ready even quicker than I expected. The Dutch crunch bread was delicious, and the creamy pesto chicken sandwich was pretty good, I'm not sure I'd order it again. It was very filling. My husband loved the big turkey duo sandwich. There was seating inside and out. We will be back to try other sandwiches. read more

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Overall Rating: 3.5 Stars If you are looking for a break from the main tourist drag in Capitola, take a quick turn around the corner at the end of the street and you'll find Castagnola Deli & Cafe. It's tucked away in a historic building and immediately feels like stepping into someone's quirky home--complete with unique decor like a pink flamingo in a straw hat! * The Service Fair warning: this is not the place to go if you're in a rush. They even have a sign explicitly stating they are not a "fast food restaurant," which I give them credit for. When we arrived on a Thursday afternoon, there was only one group of four ahead of us, yet the wait was significant enough that the group in front had to take their order to go. There seemed to be only one person handling everything at the time. Is it worth the wait? If you have the time to chill, absolutely--just don't come here on a tight schedule. * The Food: Turkey Avocado Sandwich: My sandwich was excellently prepared. All the ingredients were fresh, with a generous amount of turkey. What really stood out was how "clean" it looked--the tomato, lettuce, avocado, and turkey were perfectly layered, symmetrical, and tightly stacked on perfectly toasted bread. You can tell they take pride in the assembly. Clam Chowder: My partner went with a bowl of the chowder. It's on the very creamy side and a tad salty. I'm a stickler for food temperature, and unfortunately, this could have been served much hotter. It's a decent bowl if you like your chowder extra creamy, but the temperature was a bit of a letdown. Note: I'm kicking myself for not getting a shot of that perfectly stacked sandwich--apologies for the lack of food photos this time around! * The Drinks & Environment: They serve local beers here, which is the perfect thirst-quencher for a sunny beach day. The space is no-frills and culturally charming; you aren't coming here for fine dining. You're coming here to relax, have a fresh sandwich, and enjoy a cold beer in a house-like setting that feels worlds away from the usual commercial spots. The Bottom Line: With a diverse sandwich menu and a "slow down and enjoy life" vibe, this is a solid spot. The ingredients are high-quality and the prep is thoughtful--just make sure you aren't parked in a 20-minute loading zone when you order! read more

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Oh man, I am so sad. I came here on what felt like THE coldest day (it probably wasn't, but it felt like it, okay?!!), so I was seeking out a place for hot soup! Seeing Castagnola's "best clam chowder" sign for the Nth time, I thought it was the perfect time to try it! We were warned the wait would be awhile because 1) there was literally a wooden sign hanging near the menu that said that making the food would take a long time (omg!), and 2) the manager-cashier told us there was "1 party ahead of us", so we understood the warning to mean there would be a wait. The space heater in the dining area kept us warm, so we didn't mind. Then we saw the table ahead of us pack up after about 20 mins to leave! They told the owner that they couldn't wait any longer, so to pack up their food to-go. Gee, they must've waited a long time. By that time, we were the only people left in the cafe, yet we still waited another 15 minutes or so. Again, we didn't mind because we were warm! However, my clam chowder arrived warm -- not hot. And a creamy, buttery chowder needs to be hot! It also didn't come with anything: no soup crackers, no bread. I didn't know there was an option to get a larger bowl (a bread bowl) until reading the comments on Yelp later! Since this was my lunch, I would've hoped the manager would've asked me if I wanted that when I was ordering. I also wasn't aware that some people got their soups with bread and some got it with crackers until I saw the customer photos on Yelp afterwards, otherwise I would've asked about it. I was very disappointed to receive a small cup of chowder with nothing to dip or put in it. It was a lot of cream without something to balance it with. My friend ordered a sandwich, which looked pretty basic, but he said it tasted good, and it looked good. I expected a hotter soup and more consistency with what was served to me. If it had those elements, I think the chowder would've checked all the boxes for me! The place was a cute mom and pop deli-cafe that I hope will be around. I hope I was just there on an off day. read more

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Staff is always friendly, with a home kitchen feeling where one can relax indoors and have Some great clam chowder. read more

The best sandwich shop in Capitola! The Big Turkey on gluten free bread is my wife's favorite, I like the Tri-Tip Whaler, Creamy Pesto Chicken and the Chicken parm! And affordable prices! Best prices in town! Cheaper than Subway, Togos, etc Warning this is a small mom and pop business, it's not fast food, it might take a few minutes to place your order and get your food, but it's so worth it! So call ahead, plan ahead, order ahead or enjoy the time to slow down and chill while you wait for an awesome sandwich! read more

Castagnola Deli & Cafe - Creamy Pesto Chicken - Cafes Near Me - Capitola, California

My family ordered 2 sandwiches and 2 smoothies. Delicious, kids are looking forward to going back to this gem. Great indoor/outdoor space. Highly recommend when in Capitola. read more

My husband and I combine our morning Capitola walk then share a "Big Turkey" sandwich and sit on the benches in the Esplanade to eat. It's one of my favorite sandwiches (from anywhere). The service is great. The price is great. The portions are great. The owner is very friendly. I've lived in Capitola a long time and have seen places come and go. I hope he sticks around. Tell a friend! read more

I was in the Capitola area on the way back from Monterey and was still craving some Clam Chowder. I usually get my Calm Chowder fix in Monterey. I have yet to find a better Clam Chowder closer to me...at least that's what I thought until I came here. I did a quick Yelp search and consistently came across Castagnola Deli & Cafeas the leading contender for Clam Chowder in the area. I was a bit skeptical about the reviews especially regarding the Clam Chowder, especially since I just came from Monterey. But Castagnola made a believer out of me. I must commend my fellow Yelpers for the recommendation and reviews. Clam Chowder Cravings: ~ CLAM CHOWDER Bread Bowl - 4.5/5 For me, this is one Chowder you MUST get in a Sourdough Bread Bowl. The combination of the two just works so well. The Calm Chowder itself is brilliant! While it's not the best I had, it's definitely very tasty, I do wish it had a bit more seafood in it though. What sets the Clam Chowder Bread Bowl at Castagnola apart is the bread bowl. They toast the the Sourdough Bread Bowl which brings out an extra level of flavor...brilliant! It's all about that In addition, they add a small sliver of Herbs for that extra je ne sais quoi. It's all about that toasted Sourdough... I'll be back! read more

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This definitely feels like a true mom-and-pop spot, and that's part of its charm. Every time I'm in Capitola, I have to stop by for their clam chowder and lox bagels; they're absolutely phenomenal. The service is friendly and efficient, though it can vary depending on the queue. It seems like it's usually just the owner and maybe one other person working, sometimes even just the owner solo. So, be patient, but trust me, it's worth the wait. Seriously, don't leave without trying their clam chowder; it's a must! Just be aware that seating is limited, both outdoors and indoors. read more

Castagnola Deli & Cafe - Left to right: Lox bagel, clam chowder, garlic cheese bread, hazelnut iced coffee, egg & cheese bagel - Cafes Near Me - Capitola, California

Review time!!! Is there nothing this fabulous cafe can't do? Pizza!!! Hot fresh dough,full of flavor with the tastiest ingredients and toppings. Freshly grated Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes!!! 5 Stars We ordered two types of pizza and both tasted uniquely different. read more

Came here by chance. We were wanting clam chowder and randomly chose here. The wait was long but not crazy long and well worth it. The clam chowder is very good and the price is great. read more

Castagnola Deli & Cafe - Clam chowder - Cafes Near Me - Capitola, California

The customer service was horrible. We were the only customers it was a slow weekday and it took forever to get our order. The food is good. The owner is rude. read more

One of the best coffee and sandwich shops I've been to (and in such a small town). Highly recommend! You won't be disappointed. read more

Honestly this was one of the best sandwiches I've ever had. Get the pesto spread. Only complaint is that they were SO slow. And to be fair, they do warn you about that with a sign when you walk in. But I stood there for over 30 min. I could see they were making one sandwich and one other sandwich. 2 people working. I get that Capitola/Santa Cruz is known for their stoner chill beach vibes, but this was straight out of the Zootopia-sloth-DMV scene. read more

I'm great location right next to the beach a short walk maybe a few minutes and there's a nice side patio. It's a little small but was open at the time we went and the service is really great. The food was very tasty and reasonable in price. I definitely would be coming back again in the future. read more

This is by far the best Deli in town!!! Every sandwich is made with an artisanal touch. Dan and his family put their heart into every order. With a stones throw from the beach what more could you ask for!!! Stop reading and go get a sandwich!!!!!!!! read more

My son and I ate here today, we had the chicken pesto and the chicken apple Brie and it was BOMBdiddybombbomb The service was impeccable and friendly as can be. I love the family feel when you are there. Ambiance is excellent outside under the sunshine in the cute Capitola village. read more

Castagnola Deli & Cafe - Outside Seating - Cafes Near Me - Capitola, California

Okay, Yelpers are on point AGAIN! This clam chowder is rich and creamy. The bread bowl contained abundant chowder and we were pleasantly surprised at such fairly priced menu for a touristy locale. Definitely will be back again the next time we're in town visiting! read more

Castagnola Deli & Cafe - Clam Chowder - Cafes Near Me - Capitola, California

Old school sandwich place near the beach. Had a tuna melt and pasta salad. Sandwich was really solid. Potato salad was good as well. Will have to come back next time we're at the beach. read more

I had a deliciously fresh bagel with cream cheese, lox, onion and capers. And the coffee was really good, and NOT acidic at all. The owner was really sweet. It was a little out of the way, but perfectly so! It was a great place for a respite from the sun, noice, and bustle of people milling about Capitola. Cheers! read more

Amazing! Owner Daniel is so nice. Love that everything is made upon order. Love the avocado toast! The pickled onions make it! Oh and the balsamic! So so good ... best in town! read more

The service was amazing the man is super nice and was very patient with our order and doesn't really have any customers and also the number 1 smoothie is fire recommend it 5 stars read more

Castagnola Deli & Cafe - Cafes Near Me - Capitola, California

Walked in to this place to grab a breakfast sandwich. There was no line, I stood in front of the register for 10 minutes while two employees worked frantically yet didn't greet me and never took my order. Another customer came in and the older employee asked if he was here for a breakfast sandwich and he said no, then proceeded to tell him what he was there for. The employee said I only asked you if you ordered a breakfast sandwich and belittled the man inquiring about his order. The other younger employee looked filthy and the kitchen was in disarray. On that note we parted ways, you don't deserve me as a customer. Kindness goes a long way. read more

My husband and I come to Castagnola's every time we are in town. This charming and welcoming beach café has a wide range of food items on the menu (for adults and kids) at an affordable price. It is a family owned and operated business. Usually you will find Daniel, the owner working behind the counter! Daniel and his family members are always friendly and the service is good. It is located a block from the beach and is a favorite of locals. So come give it a try, you will not be disappointed! read more

Agree with a few other reviews that the owner is snide and condescending. A very unpleasant experience. Spring salad was good that my husband got and they have a cute bucket deal for kids with a sandwich, drink, chips and a cookie. read more

This was my first time here and my sandwich was delicious. I ordered the Big Turkey on gluten-free bread and gobbled up the entire thing. The staff was super nice and I will certainly be back. read more

Castagnola Deli & Cafe - Gluten free big turkey. Yum! - Cafes Near Me - Capitola, California

Found this place via Doordash initially, & its right down the st from me & has been for the past 6yrs! I fell in love at first bite. Im sad I have missed out on their deliciousness for that long. Dont wait any longer - just go there or online order!! ! Im definitely going to catch up on lost time & explore their menu options cause my first impression of the Big Turkey was great & my second was also up to par. Its great to find this place where their customers happiness and satisfaction matter. Sometimes at places quality is great at first & it kilters later... not at this cute quaint sandwich shop - quality is top notch. Muffins are fresh & perfectly baked. Dont forget a coffee... also delicious. QUALITY is in every sandwich wrapped up tight or served on a plate "for here" with confidence. Usually with quality of this sort it comes at an exceedingly high price... not at this family owned & operated sandwich shop. The PRICES ARE REASONABLE & FAIR - which is practically taboo in the esplanade area of Capitola. All the more reason to support this place. Theres something on that menu here for everyone. Sweets are of abundance... and the staff is enough to give you a sweet tooth as well. Daniel is a friendly yet spicy sort... he has an energy that definitely vibrates thru his business and into its product. He even took care of my dog, she was amped on the water & coldcuts given to her by the owner himself. I enjoyed every minute of my visit & I already cant wait to go back asap. Im a repeat customer for life. This is the local - family owned business to support!!! The way I talk you may think I am related/I know 'em personally, NAAHH I just know a damn good sandwich artist when I experience their media of art 'a well put together flavorful in every bite sandwich'. It may seem easy to make a good sandwich but its an art - these guys got the talent. He's hiring another sandwich artist and I halfway want the job cause "I get" the passion of the sandwich art. read more

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This place is awesome. If you like an affordable quick bite with quality food this is your spot. Whether it's a bagel loaded with cream cheese for breakfast or a turkey sandwich for lunch, you won't be disappointed and you can't go wrong with that sourdough clam chowder bowl. Great local spot. P.S. digging the Halloween decor read more

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The sandwiches are drool worthy. My favorite is the sunken ship. The deserts are so so. Parking is limited so don't expect to park in front. Nice friendly service. They'll welcome your fur-baby with a dog bowl for water and a little treat. It's comfortable, sometimes I go with just the doggo and walk it off at seascape beach. Great afternoon spot. read more

Best italian sandwich! Great price, great service. a combination you rarely see these days! read more

Underwhelming sandwiches. Waited 20 minutes and unfortunately not worth the wait. We got a pesto chicken and turkey sandwich.

Tasty soup that was a great fit for a crisp day in Capitola. Seems like a family owned place which I like to frequent and my service was fast and friendly. Ambiance could be freshened up a bit. read more

Had lunch here on Thursday April 1st. I was craving clam chowder in a bread bowl and felt very lucky I found a place in this area that wasn't charging an outrageous amount for what is traditionally a working class meal. The bonus was that we were able to get a giant club sandwich for my spouse and a big turkey sandwich for my picky teenager (with no tomatoes and sub provolone cheese). Everything was $10 each and I did not feel taken advantage of. Until I asked about drinks. A bottle of crystal geyser water, usually 39 cents at CVS, was $1.50 here. Same story with individual cans of soda. They didn't appear to have a soda fountain, I'm not sure if that's normal or because of covid. It definitely tainted the good experience to know this place isn't above senseless price gouging in its grab and go drinks. However, the food was very good. The sandwiches were devoured and my clam chowder really hit the spot. If you don't like a lot of salt, don't add the crackers that come with it. It's seasoned very well without those. The bread was also delicious, just the right amount of tang for a bread bowl. I thought it was a little weird that I ordered it to go and it came fully assembled though. That was actually the reason we chose to eat at one of their outdoor tables rather than walk to a less crowded space. I didn't want the bread to get soggy from having the soup already in it. Most places that sell soup and bread bowl to go just put the soup in its own container. Overall, good food at a good price, just don't buy your drinks here. The service was friendly, even if not the most enthusiastic. I will likely grab lunch here again the next time I'm in town. read more

Castagnola Deli & Cafe - Clam chowder in a bread bowl for $10. Beware, if you order to go, they put the soup in the bread already. - Cafes Near Me - Capitola, California

Stopped by here for lunch while walking around the village! My partner and I love a good sandwich and we were excited to see what they had. They have a TON of options when it comes to food and desserts. Customer service was really good, the guy at the counter was really nice. My partner got the Italian and loved it (though half of it WAS snatched away by a seagull, but nonetheless). I got the creamy pesto chicken and it was pretty good! Have I had better pesto sandwiches? Also yes, but it was still pretty good and kept me satisfied (also satisfied since no bird stole half my lunch). Would definitely come back again and try more off their menu and even some of the desserts! The read more

Castagnola Deli & Cafe - Creamy Pesto Chicken - Cafes Near Me - Capitola, California

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Food was average, wait was incredibly long, and owner was snide and condescending. We won't be back.

Super great service, great prices and delicious food. It takes a moment and well worth it. Will be back soon