Pupuseria Blankita - (Near San Rafael, CA)

K L Dope spot. One of the most enjoyable dining experiences I’ve had in Santa Cruz. It’s a hybrid bookstore, bar, and restaurant—and the concept actually delivers. The rotating chefs keep the menu fresh and the flavors dynamic. I caught Chef Lailita Kaewsawang’s Thai menu (Summer 2025), and it was easily some of the best Thai I’ve had in a minute. Bold, balanced, and deeply flavorful. The menu small but intentional selection. You can revisit and try everything without getting overwhelmed. Operationally smart and encourages repeat visits (in my opinion). I enjoyed their wine— which they sourced from small production estates. It’s thoughtfully curated and designed to complement the rotating cuisine. The book store vibe was impressive within itself. Definitely an added layer of intellectual texture to the space. If you’re not into books - their selections will catch your eye. Overall: Bad Animal isn’t just a restaurant—it’s a whole mood. The rotating chef model keeps things fresh, the bookstore adds depth, and the food delivers. Thai night was a standout. Would absolutely return to see what’s next on the culinary rotation—and maybe grab a bottle and a book while I’m at it. The staff was warm, knowledgeable, and on point. Indoor and outdoor seating available—both cozy, both functional.

Shannen Yang Incredible value. This is the first cantonese bbq place weve ever seen in this entire area. Super excited to come here instead of having to travel to the bay for affordable bbq. My family members have come here 5 times already! All of the meats are cooked well and juice. Highly recommend the roasted duck roll. Service was really fast and friendly :)

Matthew Spolsky Amazing tacos. Your lengua was some of the best Ive had.

gabi real authentic thai food! so flavorful ~ both the khao soi and pad thai are amazing! 10/10, only wish they were open more often!

Megan Murray These bowls are to die for! Not a red-meat person, but the filet mignon bowl was incredible, and I love the chicken and shrimp bowls as well. The fried rice bowl plus potstickers is also a fabulous meal. Can’t wait to try their salmon special and hope they’re at Humboldt Cider Co again soon!

Sean Lake Amazing, amazing. We were greeted with smiles, kindness, and a warm reception as if coming home to family and friends. The space and environment was perfect, it felt like a San Francisco hot spot. Lighting and ambience just right. Service at first had a little slow, BUT we realized that our waiter was training someone, and they more than made up for it. Our waiter, Drew and his trainee Blanco, were so attentive, knowledgeable. Drew was very descriptive about each dish,drink, and appetizer. I was drooling before Id even ordered. The smoked old fashioned, was perfectly flavored and one of the best weve had here in PS. The Dolma, superb, perfect, warm, and full of flavor. The eggplant with the Persian flat bread, oh my god, so good. The dinner was excellent. My husband ordered the lambshank and it really was so tender and delicious. I ordered the stew with kidney beans and beef. So tender and the spices were perfect. The pistachio cheesecake was creamy and full of flavor, and the baglava had three different flavor profiles and was delicious, my hubby never finishes desert, but he did this time. Were both so full by the end. Finally throughout our dining experience, Ashley, the owner was so warm and welcoming, stopping by and checking in on us, talking with us and making us feel at home. As we always say, "we enjoyed it, but youll have to experience it for yourself," SOOO Go, experience this amazing place.