Patio closes at 9PM. (Due to recent labor shortages, we have at times been unable to open the patio, if patio seating is important to you, please call ahead to verify our patio hours.) Heaters are available as is limited shade, please consider bringing a hat and a sweater or a blanket for flexibility, it's Aptos after all and chilly at night!
A local tradition since 1965, generations of guests have enjoyed our delicious food, cooked fresh daily, served with a genuine smile. Founded by my father, Manuel Santana, here at Manuel's Mexican Restaurant we proudly serve his original recipes. Whether you're visiting us for the first time, or you're one of our devoted regulars, we love you.
A local tradition since 1965, generations of guests have enjoyed our delicious food, cooked fresh daily, served with a genuine smile. Founded by my father, Manuel Santana, here at Manuel's Mexican Restaurant we proudly serve his original recipes. Whether you're visiting us for the first time, or you're one of our devoted regulars, we love you.
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About
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Located just off the "State Park Drive" freeway exit in Aptos, Manuel's Mexican Restaurant serves freshly made Mexican food daily. Manuel's opened in 1965 by founder Manuel Santana, and has been continuously operated by the Santana family since. While you might think of only Margaritas or Beer with Mexican food, we pride ourselves of a great wine-list, featuring many local wines.
History
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Manuel is cook, server and dishwasher. Alice has a day job at the school district to support the family. Leonardo is six years old. Restaurant serves its first Friday fist special: Huachinango la Jarocha. 1968 - Menu expands to 21 tables. Becomes a hangout of Ken Kesey and some of the Merry Pranksters; restaurant is mentioned in the book, The Electric Kool-Aid Acid Test.
Reservations
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We accept a limited number of reservations up to 7 days in advance for parties up to ten (10) gests by phone only. Please call (831) 688-4848. If you cannot get a reservation, we are happy to add you to the wait list for next available table. Your entire party must be present before we can seat you.
Directions
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We're located just off State Park Drive, on Hwy 1, approximately 7 miles south of Santa Cruz. Take "State Park Drive" exit and head toward the ocean. You'll get to a stop sign (right before entering the beach area.) Make a left and look for the blue awning with the white "Manuel's" sign (and parking!)
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