Hello dear
Welcome To Bittersweet Bistro
At Bittersweet Bistro, we celebrate the art of dining with a delightful fusion of New American cuisine and Mediterranean influences. Nestled along the scenic Rio Del Mar Blvd in Aptos, California, our bistro offers a warm and inviting atmosphere, perfect for indulging in exquisite dishes ranging from succulent filet mignon to vibrant vegan options. Guests can relax in our beautifully designed spaces, including outdoor seating overlooking a tranquil koi pond. Our famous desserts, like the decadent Bittersweet Chocolate Mousse and Classic Crème Brûlée, promise to satisfy every sweet tooth. At Bittersweet Bistro, we believe every meal should be a memorable experience.
Taste the best
Discover Our Menu
Bittersweet Chocolate Mousse
$20.50Brownie Sundae
$20.50Banana Bread Pudding
$20.50
Lemon Napoleon
$19.00Dulce de Leche Cheesecake
$18.50Sorbets
$18.50
Ice Creams
$18.50Warm Bread Pudding
$18.50Classic Crème Brûlée
$14.50 About
Bittersweet Bistro
Welcome to the enchanting world of Bittersweet Bistro, a New American gem nestled in the beautiful coastal landscape of Aptos, California. Located at 787 Rio Del Mar Blvd, this bistro is where culinary art meets a stunning ambiance, offering patrons an inviting space to indulge in delightful dishes, innovative cocktails, and exquisite desserts.
Bittersweet Bistro combines a classy aesthetic with an approachable atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for casual dinners, special occasions, or even just gathering with friends. The spacious seating areas, including outdoor options and a mahogany bar, invite guests to relax and explore a diverse menu steeped in culinary creativity. With a focus on inclusive dining, the bistro offers ample vegan and vegetarian choices, ensuring that everyone can find something to savor.
- Catering Options: Perfect for large gatherings.
- Happy Hour Specials: Excellent value during select times.
- Signature Desserts: Don't miss out on the Bittersweet Chocolate Mousse or Dulce de Leche Cheesecake.
- Accessibility: ADA-compliant features for all guests.
On a recent visit, I was enchanted by the vibrant koi pond just outside the bistro, creating a serene backdrop for a delightful meal. Patrons can savor immersive flavors with dishes prepared to perfection, such as the tender filet mignon or a refreshing garden salad, each bite leaving a lasting impression. It's no wonder this establishment has become a staple for locals, a go-to spot that embodies the coastal lifestyle.
The staff at Bittersweet Bistro is known for their exceptional service, providing a warm welcome that makes every guest feel at home. From friendly bartenders who craft remarkable cocktails to attentive waitstaff, the dedication to hospitality shines through. As one guest noted, the experience is consistently filled with charm and warmth, making it a prime location not just for dining, but for creating memories.
My standout experience included indulging in their famous desserts, particularly the Crème Brûlée—a classic demonstration of culinary skill, exquisitely topped with caramelized sugar, and paired beautifully with the warm ambiance of the bistro. It is a sweet ending not to be rushed—take your time, savor the moment.
Whether you're stopping by for a cocktail, bringing the family for dinner, or organizing a private event, Bittersweet Bistro offers something for everyone. With options for both dine-in and takeout, as well as amenities like outdoor seating and occasionally live music, each visit promises a unique and enjoyable experience.
In summary, Bittersweet Bistro is a culinary oasis where delightful flavors, exceptional service, and a welcoming ambiance converge to create a memorable dining experience. Make it your next destination in the coastal marvel of Aptos—it's a stop you won’t want to miss.
People talk
Our Guestbook
“ It's been a long time since I have dined at the Bittersweet Bistro. On this visit, my Company held their annual dinner. They held it in a private back room with a full bar setup with wine service too. Three course dinner featuring a Garden Salad, filet mignon and crème brûlée. The service was impeccable and friendly. ”
“ Bittersweet Bistro Aptos CA Fri 12/27/24 On Rio Del Mar Blvd! One very bright Friday in December! Sunny & warm at the coast! Several of us stopped by for drinks! © Here with friends after taking care of some business in the area! You can't help it but feel celebratory in the beautiful Santa Cruz area, Capitola, Aptos, coastal Rio Del Mar, where ocean proximity offers the best of the sea-meets-relaxed-lifestyle! In comparison to Silicon Valley's stresses, it feels almost remote here, yet it's only a hillside away from the valley's intensity! In a beautiful koi pond, just outside of your stone and stucco building, the happiest vibrant fishes sparkle & dance in the water, displaying bright red and yellow! You wanna join the human size teddy bear Santa by the bar? You can do it here! Straight to the bar counter we go, spacious and inviting to relax and quench that thirst! Classy Mahogany bar is hard to pass by. Let's go! My rye whiskey, but of course! We ordered several cocktails, one of those was French Lemon Drop! Chitchat with the bartender Cliff! Excellent service! Bittersweet Bistro is a staple recognized by locals, one of top spots in Santa Cruz County & in Aptos's Rio Del Mar enclave. It's a New American classic with Mediterranean twist! I savored my rye! Overall the WhistlePig PiggyBack Rye 6 Years has a nice sweet profile! It complements the dominant rustic and spicey notes. Good all around, it's a versatile whiskey! Works equally well in cocktails or in a glass by itself, just like I have enjoyed it! It features a 100% rye mashbill, a solid 96.56 proof. Delicious Lemon Drop, made to order, I carry a recipe given to me years ago, by a true professional. It comes out strong & citrusy refreshing! Very good. Time flew fast with a great conversation! On to the next stop! Arrivederci Bittersweet! Until we meet again! * Cocktails and dreams give them to me I said, oh, oh, oh I'm begging you please Give them to me Cocktails and dreams Cocktails and dreams give them to me [ Review #817 w 4 pics Jan 21, 2025 ] Vibrant fishes in the pond outside! Santa's waiting to make U company! My WhistlePig PiggyBack Rye 6 Years! Exceptional French Lemon Drop! @Bittersweet Bistro Aptos CA Fri 12/27/24 ”
“ First time dining at Bittersweet Bistro! The Bistro has a gorgeous and welcoming ambiance, with a variety of seating areas, including a spacious dining room, exterior dining area, and a bar/lounge. All of which are pretty and comfortable. The menu was diverse and interesting. I was thrilled with my food choices. Everything was well-prepared and presented. Oh, and don't skip dessert! There were also fantastic. Last, but not least, the service was outstanding! Everyone we encountered (even if they weren't directly involved in our visit,)!was friendly and helpful. Can't wait to return. ”
“ Outstanding to be seated comfortably and courteously be served. Sweet to the 3rd power. May the 4th be with you. ;) Temperature is great with non temperamental individuals. Space and lightning is a great comfort zone to enjoy a quick dinner. Thank you. ”
