Restaurants for Sale in Santa Cruz County, CA
Santa Cruz County, California
Restaurants & Food
9 results for "Restaurants & Food" businesses in "Santa Cruz County, California"
Santa Cruz County, California
Restaurants & Food
9 results for "Restaurants & Food" businesses in "Santa Cruz County, California"
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Aptos, California
Turnkey 1,100 SF Café/Restaurant – Prime Aptos Location – New 2025 Buildout
$ 99,000
Here’s a great opportunity to acquire a beautifully built-out café/restaurant in a high-traffic shopping center in Aptos, CA. This is a rare chance to step into a fully equipped, professionally designed food service space with all new equipment and recent 2025 remodel. The business is currently operated with a manager and employees, with the owner living out of the country. The space features approximately 1,100 square feet, excellent visibility, and ample parking in a well-established retail center. Lease is very reasonable at $3,600/month plus NNN, with a cooperative landlord. This is being sold primarily as an asset sale. The full kitchen is underutilized, making this an ideal opportunity for an experienced operator to introduce a new or expanded concept such as fast casual eatery, or light restaurant. Revenue was in an upward trend in 2025, but due to the Seller experiencing health-related issues, the sale of this business must occur. This is a true turnkey facility with FF&E included, minimal startup friction, and strong upside potential through concept repositioning, extended hours, and delivery/catering. Ideal for an owner-operator or small group seeking a plug-and-play restaurant space in a premier coastal market. Contact Carmel Business Sales today for more information. Key Details + Asking Price: $99,000 + Size: 1,100 Sf + Lease: $3,600/month + NNN + Buildout: Brand new, completed 2025 + Equipment: New, fully equipped kitchen + Parking: Ample, in busy retail center + Sale Type: Asset sale (no financials provided) + Reason for Sale: Health-related
Santa Cruz County, California
Top-Rated Coastal Boba Tea & Specialty Beverage Café
$ 150,000
Executive Summary This is a rare opportunity to acquire a popular high-performing, "turn-key" Boba Tea and Specialty Beverage cafe located in one of Northern California’s most iconic coastal destinations. The business has established a market-leading position through premium ingredient sourcing, a proven menu, and efficient operations. With three years of verified financial growth and a consistent Net Operating Profit, this business is perfectly positioned for a new owner to scale operations in a high-demand, high-barrier-to-entry market. Financial Analysis Summary: • High Profitability: The business maintains an exceptional Net Profit Margin of approximately 42%. • Strong Gross Margins: Cost of Goods Sold (COGS) is efficiently managed at approximately 14–16% of sales. • Normalized Labor: Payroll expenses are stabilized at roughly 12% of revenue, reflecting an efficient semi-absentee management structure. Investment Highlights • Turn-Key Asset Package: The sale includes approximately $47K+ in Furniture, Fixtures, and Equipment (FF&E), including high-end equipment, custom woodwork, and new kiosk. • Semi-Absentee Model: Experienced staff and established operations already in place allowing for a flexible owner-operator or semi-absentee model. • Optimized Digital Presence: Robust revenue streams from heavy pedestrian traffic and established third-party delivery platforms. • Elite Product Standards: The menu features handcrafted high quality beverages with broad customer appeal. Facility and Lease Details • Space: Approximately 760 sq. ft., meticulously designed for high-volume takeout and efficiency. • Lease Stability: Multi-year renewal option already in place. • Additional Amenities: Shared rear courtyard access and dedicated business/residential parking permits. Note: Business listing cover image is AI-generated for illustrative purposes only and does not represent the specific products or physical location of the business.
Santa Cruz County, California
Restaurant-Fully Equipped-Bring your concept! Assets & Lease-4,300 sq.ft.- Ocean Views.
$ 95,000
4,430 sq.ft. + large patio. Rent only $14,961/mo. total. Long lease. 2 Hoods fully loaded with cooking equipment. Fully furnished and everything is included. The value is in the Fixtures, Equipment,Tenant Improvements, Health Department compliance, and Lease. A space like this would cost around $1.5-$2M to build and take at least 18 months. Convert this to your concept and save over $1M and be open in months, not years. Asking only $95,000 (ABC 47 License sold separately at current market value -$100,000)
Santa Cruz County, California
Premier Coastal Destination Coffee Portfolio (2 SHOPS)
$ 250,000
Main Street Realtors Business Opportunity Division Presents: PREMIER DESTINATION COASTAL COFFEE PORTFOLIO (2 SHOPS) Established Dual-Location Neighborhood Hub & Community Staple Santa Cruz County, California Offered at: $250,000 Includes Inventory, Furniture, Fixtures & Equipment, Tradename, Website, and Social Media An exceptional opportunity has arrived to acquire a well-established, locally loved coffee shop operation with two prime locations in Santa Cruz County. This business has been a community staple for over three decades, widely recognized for its welcoming atmosphere, loyal customer base, and strong neighborhood presence. The business has built nearly 30 years of authentic brand equity without reliance on heavy advertising, successfully cultivating a "cult following" that spans generations. Operating as a true community hub, both locations reinforce this creative identity by regularly showcasing local artwork, making them premier destinations for residents and visitors alike. This is a turnkey entry into the thriving coastal coffee market, supported by established systems and a seasoned team. Key Highlights: •Two Strategic Locations: Features two high-traffic sites: a flagship in a major regional shopping center and a second storefront in a bustling neighborhood corridor. •Approachable & High-Demand Menu: Features coffee, espresso, smoothies, breakfast items, and baked goods, with successfully integrated third-party delivery platforms. •Stable Infrastructure: Sale includes all specialized machinery, furniture, fixtures, and operational equipment valued at approximately $20,000. •Fixed Lease Stability: Prime anchor-center positioning with a fixed lease term at the flagship location secured through 2027. Business Details: •Established: Operating continuously since 1994. •Location: Santa Cruz County •Business Model: Dual-location retail coffee storefronts with high-volume delivery integration. •Inventory: Valued at approximately $5,000. •Operating Hours: Established seasonal hours are in place to maximize coastal foot traffic year-round. Upside & Opportunity: This acquisition is perfectly suited for an owner-operator or a strategic buyer looking to leverage an iconic brand with massive untapped potential. While the business currently thrives as a retail operation, there is significant upside in developing wholesale and retail distribution channels. After over 30 years of successful leadership, the current owner is preparing for retirement, offering a stable and well-regarded foundation for a fluid transition. A new owner can capitalize on existing community loyalty while exploring these growth initiatives to further leverage these high-visibility locations and the legendary brand name.
Santa Cruz County, California
Gourmet Sandwich Shop with Beer and Wine Near Santa Cruz
$ 425,000
CF : $ 190,000
THIS BUSINESS IS IN ESCROW. BACK UP OFFERS CONSIDERED BY SELLER. SBA PRE-QUALIFIED! 10% DOWN FOR APPROVED BUYER. PRICE REDUCED TO $425,000 + INVENTORY Here’s your chance to own a truly unique and profitable small business near the Santa Cruz coast and surfing beaches. This fast casual sandwich shop has built a strong local following by delivering high quality food with a creative edge. Every sandwich is made to order with premium ingredients, house made sauces, and their signature thick-cut chips, which are seasoned in-house and included with every meal. The menu offers a mix of familiar favorites and bold, chef-driven flavors that set it apart from chain restaurants and grocery store delis. The brand stands out for its consistency, personality, and loyal customer base. It has earned excellent reviews on Google and Yelp and is known not just for great food, but for providing a memorable guest experience. The concept is well-established yet still has room to grow under new ownership. Customers also enjoy a curated selection of bottled craft sodas, fountain drinks, or regional beers, and the sale includes a Type 41 ABC license. If you're looking to take over a turnkey operation with staying power and a distinctive identity in a high-traffic area, this is a rare opportunity. Trademark available, TBD. Gross sales: $985,646 3 year average SDE: $189,587 3 year average Price: $425,000 + inventory. Shop Size: 1250 SF HIGHLY CONFIDENTIAL. CALL OR EMAIL BROKER DIRECTLY FOR NDA. PERSONAL FINANCIAL STATEMENT REQUIRED. Broker: Rex Walters, CBB, PhD Certified Business Broker 831-239-2080 scbusinessbroker@gmail.com www.coastbusinessbrokerage.com Lic. # 01841628
Santa Cruz, California
Turnkey Restaurant Opportunity at a Prime Cornerstone Downtown Location
$ 249,000
A premier turn-key acquisition opportunity in the vibrant heart of downtown Santa Cruz. This unique sports bar is in a rapidly developing coastal corridor, the establishment benefits from high foot traffic, an established live music permit, and a desirable outdoor seating area. This recently remodeled facility includes all essential components for immediate operational success, including an ABC license. This is a rare chance to step into a fully equipped, professionally designed food service space with new equipment and a recent remodel. With a distinguished 32-year history as a cornerstone of the local hospitality scene, the location boasts a loyal customer base of neighborhood regulars. This continuity ensures a stable revenue stream for the incoming owner from the outset. The outdoor patio area, currently underutilized, offers substantial potential to increase seating capacity and enhance the dining experience. The immediate surrounding area is undergoing significant densification, with several residential high-rises and a new hotel development situated within a 5-minute walking radius. This growth places thousands of potential patrons within immediate proximity. This is the owner’s 7th startup. They usually run a business for 4-5 years. They have created a great template for someone to start with and build on. This creates a rare opportunity for an investor to acquire a renovated asset. With a favorable lease in place and a strategic location in one of the region’s most desirable coastal markets, this establishment is poised for continued growth and robust financial performance. Unfortunately, the owner must step away due to health concerns. This is a turnkey operation with staff in place, and the seller is willing to provide training to ensure a smooth transition. Facility specifications and amenities can be provided upon request. Growth Opportunities: A new owner could significantly grow the business by: + Expanding operating hours (currently open 58hrs per week) + Enhancing use of the outdoor patio + Introducing private events and renting out the upstairs lounge area + Introducing karaoke, quiz night, and comedy night Contact Carmel Business Sales today for more information.
Santa Cruz County, California
Established Restaurant/Wine Bar with Exquisite Outdoor Patio $2 Million + Sales & $300,000 Profit- SBA Pre-Approved
$ 725,000
Established Restaurant/Wine Bar with Exquisite Outdoor Patio $2 Million + Sales & $300,000 Profit- SBA Pre-Approved RRC#5168 Asking Price: $725,000 Location: Santa Cruz County Annual Revenue: $2,015,271 Annual Cash Flow: $299,340 Monthly Rent: $8919 + NNN Listing Description: This opportunity is pre-qualified for an SBA loan so his business can be purchased with as little as ten percent (10%) cash down. This beautifully designed Mediterranean restaurant is located in a prime central location and has a dining room, wine bar, beautiful enclosed outdoor seating area with outdoor heaters, display kitchen, and prep kitchen. The restaurant only operates five days a week (Tuesday-Saturday) so there is upside for an additional two days of business and Sunday (one of the days closed) is one of busiest days of the week for this location. The dining room has an open airy feeling with lots of windows, high ceilings and a combination of booth seating, banquette seating and tables and chairs. The wine bar has bar seats and additional high top tables with high top seats. The restaurant has tile floors throughout, is totally ADA accessible, has 2 ADA restrooms, an office and several storage areas. Some of the major equipment includes as follows: 14' type 1 hood with fire suppression system, Toast POS system, 6 burners over oven, char grill, specialty grill, 6 burners, 2 deck pizza oven, 3 - 2 door under counter refrigerators (2 with sandwich stations), 2 food warmers, 3 door under counter refrigerator, 3 hand sinks, mop sink, floor model mixer, 3 compartment sink + rinse hose, 2 compartment drop-in freezer, walk-in refrigerator, 3 beer taps, hot water maker, 2 full door freezer and ice maker, etc. The restaurant has its own sprinkler system and HVAC system. The restaurant has a strong regular clientele and has an excellent long term reputation in the area.
Online / Remote
Profitable Franchise Pizza Restaurant in Santa Cruz County
$ 149,000
Step into a thriving, beloved local institution: Take advantage of the opportunity to own a successful pizza restaurant franchise! This isn't just a business; it's a slice of tradition, with a loyal customer base built on years of serving delicious, high-quality pizza and family-friendly fun. The sale includes a fully-equipped kitchen, a welcoming dining area, and all the established branding and operational support of the franchise family. Take the reins of a turnkey operation and continue a legacy of great food and community connection from day one. Located in a high-traffic, easily accessible center Highly visible Great team and management already in place 3rd-party delivery platforms utilized The biggest growth opportunity lies in expanding our reach through digital marketing and community engagement, as well as scaling our catering and delivery services.
Santa Cruz County, California
Motivated Seller & Cash Flow Investment
$ 139,500
CF : $ 89,000
After a long and successful career, the owner is retiring and selling the business known locally as the "Cactus Market" and deli. The establishment offers beer, wine, lotto, drinks, snacks, sandwiches, and the best-deviled eggs in town. It also boasts the coldest beer in the county, offers takeout options and provides seating at picnic tables. The new owner will have the opportunity to put their own twist on this iconic business. Financial records reflect a frugal operation that has been profitable for the owner, who has worked smartly for many years to achieve a comfortable lifestyle in Santa Cruz. The location is conveniently situated 12 minutes from the beach and is close to the redwoods, golf courses, wine destinations, craft beer establishments, and music venues. This lifestyle opportunity, for the right match, can continue and contribute positively to our local community. For photos, please Google "Cactus Corner Watsonville." More information will be forthcoming on this site (just listed, but I wanted to share it on my BizBen account). Please feel free to call me with any questions. Income producing real estate also for sale. Ask me for the right person, family, investor who is ready for a special challenge. Please call me.
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Buy or Sell a Restaurant in California
Market Snapshot
- Number of Businesses - 9 listings
- Average Asking Price - $253,500
- Average Revenue - $1,010,424
- Average Cash Flow - $139,500
Top Metro Areas for Restaurant Ownership
- Los Angeles & Orange County: High population density, strong year-round tourism and dining demand
- San Francisco Bay Area: High household incomes and premium dining preferences
- Sacramento & Central Valley: More affordable rents, growing suburban populations, and rising food-service consumption
- San Diego: Tourist and student markets sustain steady traffic and diversified dining formats
Why Invest in a Restaurant?
- Strong demand, especially in high-traffic markets and tourist destinations
- Opportunities for owner-operators to scale or convert absentee models
- Multiple paths to revenue: full-service, quick-service, franchise, delivery/take-out
- California's large and diverse consumer base offers resilience across economic cycles
Whether you're a first-time buyer or an investor adding another location, restaurants in California deliver consistent potential for growth and return when properly maintained, marketed, and located.
Selling Your California Restaurant?
Thinking about selling your restaurant? BizBen connects sellers with qualified buyers and experienced restaurant brokers statewide who understand valuations, leases, and operational complexities.
FAQs
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Whether buying, investing, or selling, California's restaurant market remains active, competitive, and driven by a large consumer base. Explore the current opportunities on BizBen.com to find your next restaurant business investment.