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Laili Reviews List
Laili
101B Cooper St
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
For centuries a five thousand mile trade route has joined the Mediterranean to China through Afghanistan and India. Known mostly for the Silk Trade, the Silk Road has acted as a conduit of ideas, cultures, music, food & spices throughout all of its regions. Laili aims to bring the age old flavors and traditions of the Silk Road to life by creating a positive and relaxing environment with a culturally rich and flavorful dining experience.
Dining Style: Casual Elegant
Price: $30 and under
Parking: Public Lot
Cross Street: Pacific Avenue
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
For centuries a five thousand mile trade route has joined the Mediterranean to China through Afghanistan and India. Known mostly for the Silk Trade, the Silk Road has acted as a conduit of ideas, cultures, music, food & spices throughout all of its regions. Laili aims to bring the age old flavors and traditions of the Silk Road to life by creating a positive and relaxing environment with a culturally rich and flavorful dining experience.
Dining Style: Casual Elegant
Price: $30 and under
Parking: Public Lot
Cross Street: Pacific Avenue
113 Current Reviews
Summary of Diner Ratings & Reviews
Overall
(Outstanding)
4.3
/
5
Rating Breakdown 113 reviews
5 stars
(46)
4 stars
(53)
3 stars
(12)
2 stars
(2)
1 star
(0)
Food
(Outstanding)
4.3
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
4.1
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
4.1
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
Filter Reviews By:
Diners classify this restaurant as:
- fit for foodies(74)
- great for outdoor dining(52)
- neighborhood gem(49)
- special occasion(47)
- good for groups(37)
- romantic(34)
Laili Reviews List
Review 1 for Laili
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
We loved Laili
OpenTable Diner Since
Dined on 05/13/2012
2011
Dined on 05/13/2012
2011
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"We all liked everything we ordered. The pumpkin appetizer was a huge hit.
Sitting outside in the charming courtyard was great, much quieter than inside. We have a new favorite in Santa Cruz."
Sitting outside in the charming courtyard was great, much quieter than inside. We have a new favorite in Santa Cruz."
Dined on 05/13/2012
2011
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion
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Review 2 for Laili
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
We were joined by friends
OpenTable Diner Since
Dined on 05/12/2012
2012
Dined on 05/12/2012
2012
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"We were joined by friends who had not eaten at Laili b/4 & they Loved the food, service as much as we do each time we have been there.
The evening was delightful! Laili is one of our favorite restaurants in Santa Cruz. A gem!"
The evening was delightful! Laili is one of our favorite restaurants in Santa Cruz. A gem!"
Dined on 05/12/2012
2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem
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Review 3 for Laili
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Delicious meal, lovely ambiance.
OpenTable Diner Since
Dined on 05/06/2012
2006
Dined on 05/06/2012
2006
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Six of us came for dinner at Laili before a concert at the Rio. The restaurant had just opened so we got a table in the lovely garden. We expressed to our server that we had a show to get to so needed brisk service. She totally got it: appetizers and drinks followed in short order. Entrees came quickly and were nicely presented with attractive, tasty accompaniments and well spiced. Only downside, two of us had lamb that was more overdone than requested. As we finished our meal and we anxious to leave, our server seemed to forget about us. We asked other waitstaff for the check and waited...and waited. Finally we got her attention and were able to settle the tab. It appears as the restaurant got busy, the level of service waned."
Dined on 05/06/2012
2006
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion
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Review 4 for Laili
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Laili is the perfect combination
OpenTable Diner Since
Dined on 05/04/2012
2012
Dined on 05/04/2012
2012
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Laili is the perfect combination of atmosphere/decor, wonderfully warm and well-timed service, and exotic food. We loved their chicken kabob with pomegranate seeds and saffron rice and also enjoyed the organic greens salad, pomegranate sorbet, and cardamon ice cream. Highly recommend!"
Dined on 05/04/2012
2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, great for lunch
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Review 5 for Laili
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Our second time there, it
OpenTable Diner Since
Dined on 04/30/2012
2007
Dined on 04/30/2012
2007
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Our second time there, it was great!"
Dined on 04/30/2012
2007
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for outdoor dining, special occasion
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Review 6 for Laili
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
It is unfortunate that the
OpenTable Diner Since
Dined on 04/30/2012
2010
Dined on 04/30/2012
2010
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"It is unfortunate that the reservation doesn't count for dining points. It will get more customers I guess."
Dined on 04/30/2012
2010
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Review 7 for Laili
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Food was very good. Beautiful
OpenTable Diner Since
Dined on 04/24/2012
2005
Dined on 04/24/2012
2005
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Food was very good. Beautiful and seasoned well."
Dined on 04/24/2012
2005
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, great for lunch, hot spot
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Review 8 for Laili
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Difficult to find and little
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Difficult to find and little parking, but worth the effort. Limited, but tasty menu."
Dined on 04/11/2012
2008
Special Features: neighborhood gem, great for lunch
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Review 9 for Laili
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
We thoroughly enjoyed our
OpenTable Diner Since
Dined on 04/20/2012
2009
Dined on 04/20/2012
2009
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"We thoroughly enjoyed our time at Laili. The food was delicious, fresh, healthy, well prepared and perfectly spiced. We had the eggplant entree and the lamb kabobs and shared both. The flavors melded well together. We can't wait to return to try other menu choices."
Dined on 04/20/2012
2009
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for outdoor dining, kid-friendly, special occasion
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Review 10 for Laili
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
Food was good and waiter was
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Fair)
2
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Food was good and waiter was friendly, but never checked back with us. I ordered a filet mignon kabob and had to flag down the hostess and then the bus boy to ask for a steak knife."
Dined on 04/20/2012
2003
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Review 11 for Laili
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Really good food, and decor.
OpenTable Diner Since
Dined on 04/13/2012
2007
Dined on 04/13/2012
2007
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Really good food, and decor. We sat indoors and was quite noisy but they have a beautiful private outdoor garden, patio that is heated, and wonderful."
Dined on 04/13/2012
2007
Special Features: great for outdoor dining
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Review 12 for Laili
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Had the cauliflower & saffron
OpenTable Diner Since
Dined on 04/14/2012
2010
Dined on 04/14/2012
2010
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Had the cauliflower & saffron soup special -fabulous!"
Dined on 04/14/2012
2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, special occasion, hot spot
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Review 13 for Laili
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Wonderful food, subtle flavors
OpenTable Diner Since
Dined on 04/08/2012
2005
Dined on 04/08/2012
2005
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Wonderful food, subtle flavors with a pop and excellent service. Thanks to Chris our waiter that day, we had the perfect brunch! Delicate flatbread dishes with generous portions. Many other specialities to enjoy as well."
Dined on 04/08/2012
2005
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, great for lunch
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Review 14 for Laili
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Fantastic surprise! Beautiful
OpenTable Diner Since
Dined on 04/07/2012
2008
Dined on 04/07/2012
2008
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Fantastic surprise! Beautiful setting. Great courtyard. Very helpful staff....and best of all, the food was incredible! We are definitely going back."
Dined on 04/07/2012
2008
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for outdoor dining, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
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Review 15 for Laili
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Yummy!!!
OpenTable Diner Since
Dined on 04/04/2012
2007
Dined on 04/04/2012
2007
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"This was our first visit and we willed finitely return."
Dined on 04/04/2012
2007
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, special occasion, hot spot
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Review 16 for Laili
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
A modern Afghan Persian cuisine.
OpenTable Diner Since
Dined on 03/25/2012
2005
Dined on 03/25/2012
2005
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Fair)
2
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"A modern Afghan Persian cuisine. Our chicken kabobs were tender and browned perfectly. Service was a bit slow."
Dined on 03/25/2012
2005
Special Features: great for outdoor dining, romantic
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Review 17 for Laili
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Amazing flavors on 3 of the
OpenTable Diner Since
Dined on 03/23/2012
2003
Dined on 03/23/2012
2003
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Amazing flavors on 3 of the 4 main courses we ordered. Only the prawns/pasta dish was uninspired. Had a great time. Will return."
Dined on 03/23/2012
2003
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining
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Review 18 for Laili
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Great food, server was very
OpenTable Diner Since
Dined on 03/23/2012
2011
Dined on 03/23/2012
2011
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Great food, server was very helpful. Only negative was that it took a long time to get the main course. It was busy, but should have gone faster."
Dined on 03/23/2012
2011
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, great for lunch, hot spot
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Review 19 for Laili
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Nice experience & delicious food
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Very nice welcome, great freshly prepared food, good variety, great service by our waiter. Will recommend to others."
Dined on 03/14/2012
2005
Special Features: neighborhood gem, special occasion, great for lunch
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Review 20 for Laili
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Went to Laili's for a quick
OpenTable Diner Since
Dined on 03/10/2012
2010
Dined on 03/10/2012
2010
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Went to Laili's for a quick bite before going to a show. My friend is a vegetarian and there were plenty of things for her to eat. I eat meat and was completely satisfied with the offerings too. Drinks were a little pricey but other than that, I thought it was fantastic!"
Dined on 03/10/2012
2010
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Review 21 for Laili
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
Good food, service slow
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Fair)
2
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"This was my second time here. The food was good, but the restaurant was busy and the service was slow. I noticed the server took orders from 4 different groups before sending them to the kitchen. This was after taking a while to come take our orders. So, if you were the last table to order, it wouldn't be so bad, but if you were the first, you probably waited a long time for your food to arrive."
Dined on 02/19/2012
2003
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Review 22 for Laili
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Great choice for downtown dining...
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Happy to have finally seized the chance to eat at Laili! Their upscale Mediterranean Cuisine and ambience offer a unique and welcome alternative to the mix in downtown Santa Cruz. Service was great and we all enjoyed our choices though the menu offered plenty of choices to fuel future culinary adventures, as do specials for early dinning, happy hour, and a inviting, enclosed courtyard and lunch menu. We'll definitely be back!"
Dined on 03/03/2012
2007
Special Features: good for groups, great for outdoor dining, notable wine list, special occasion, great for lunch, hot spot
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Review 23 for Laili
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Food was thoughtfully prepared
OpenTable Diner Since
Dined on 03/03/2012
2003
Dined on 03/03/2012
2003
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Food was thoughtfully prepared with organic ingredients and professionally presented. Serving sizes were perfect.
Lots of vegetarian choices! (and full on vegan can be requested)
Great location and food/service ... we'll be back =)"
Dined on 03/03/2012
2003
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, romantic
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Review 24 for Laili
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Terrific place. Food was unique
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Terrific place. Food was unique and very tasty. Service was exceptional.
Was visiting from the East Bay CA. Need a place like this in Danville!"
Was visiting from the East Bay CA. Need a place like this in Danville!"
Dined on 02/25/2012
2007
Special Features: fit for foodies
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Review 25 for Laili
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Worth a return visit
OpenTable Diner Since
Dined on 02/25/2012
2005
Dined on 02/25/2012
2005
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Fair)
2
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Laili still has some rough edges. On my Saturday night visit the high-ceilinged, hard surface room was uncomfortably loud. Service was extremely slow. The menu's appetizer section holds the most interesting options (spinach bolani, dumplings). Entrees consist of a meat, vegetable (a boring pomegranate eggplant is the only vegetarian choice) or fish lined up along a pile of too-large pile of bland rice and sides of well-prepared vegetables, all jammed onto a narrow rectangular plate. The effect is attractive, but difficult to negotiate, as the plates slide on the bare tables. My companion loved the lamb tenderloin. Dessert was a delicious cardamom rice pudding. I'll return, but next time I'll skip the entree and sit in the courtyard"
Dined on 02/25/2012
2005
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, kid-friendly, neighborhood gem, great for lunch
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Review 26 for Laili
Overall rating
(Fair)
2
/
5
Soup was good, as was appretizer
OpenTable Diner Since
Dined on 02/21/2012
2010
Dined on 02/21/2012
2010
Food
(Fair)
2
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Fair)
2
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Soup was good, as was appretizer and house-made yogurt. But overwall, complete meal was only OK; not nearly as interesting as we had hoped. We were, therefore, disappointed when the waitress told us they don't change their menu often."
Dined on 02/21/2012
2010
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Review 27 for Laili
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Outstanding Silk Road Dining..
OpenTable Diner Since
Dined on 02/20/2012
2011
Dined on 02/20/2012
2011
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Wonderfully complex flavors served politely in a beautifully decorated restaurant. This is what dining in a restaurant SHOULD be !!"
Dined on 02/20/2012
2011
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, romantic, great for lunch
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Review 28 for Laili
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Delicious and varied veg options!
OpenTable Diner Since
Dined on 02/17/2012
2011
Dined on 02/17/2012
2011
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Delicious and varied veg options!"
Dined on 02/17/2012
2011
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion
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Review 29 for Laili
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Delightfully surprized
OpenTable Diner Since
Dined on 02/19/2012
2010
Dined on 02/19/2012
2010
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"With "foodie" friends in town, I was concerned about finding the perfect dining experience. A friend recommended Laili, and we were not disappointed. The food was OUTSTANDING. Wonderful flavors. A delightful mixture of herbs spices and textures that resulted in an exceptional dining experience."
Dined on 02/19/2012
2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 30 for Laili
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
Still looking
OpenTable Diner Since
Dined on 02/18/2012
2010
Dined on 02/18/2012
2010
Food
(Fair)
2
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Pretty location, very nice ambiance. Food was nothing special and given the prices and "reservations required" it was less than memorable overall. No one raved about a single dish with the exception of a very nice beet salad which was one of the specials."
Dined on 02/18/2012
2010
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Review 31 for Laili
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
Requested a birthday acknowledgemen
OpenTable Diner Since
Dined on 02/19/2012
2012
Dined on 02/19/2012
2012
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Poor)
1
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Requested a birthday acknowledgement, did not receive this.
Very noisy ambiance, wanted a different table and would not accommodate.
Service scattered, felt the waitress was too rushed
Food was good, not exceptional."
Very noisy ambiance, wanted a different table and would not accommodate.
Service scattered, felt the waitress was too rushed
Food was good, not exceptional."
Dined on 02/19/2012
2012
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Review 32 for Laili
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
We dined outside on the enclosed
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"We dined outside on the enclosed patio on a warm winter day. Such lovely surroundings for a delicious lunch. The theme here is fusion cuisine from the Silk Road. And everything on the menu sounded appealing! We shared pumpkin bolani, lightly fried pumpkin-stuffed bread, with three types of spreads. Next came rectangular flatbreads, one with middle-eastern flavored chicken with dates and pomegranate seeds and the other with chèvre, fresh arugula, and roasted walnuts on a walnut-date bread. Both were excellent, as was the lamb wrap. There are a number of interesting vegetarian choices at Laili, a rarity when dining out."
Dined on 02/17/2012
2004
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem
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Review 33 for Laili
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
The organic greens were lightly
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"The organic greens were lightly dressed with a very nice cardamom vinaigrette, and the pomegranate bits were a nice touch. I ordered hummus on the side, very thick with touches of cumin (it went great with the flatbread). Service was lightning-quick, a stunner on a holiday (of course, it was early). The only downside was that they jettisoned the Middle Eastern music that Valentine's Day in favor of HORRIBLE '80s power ballads...whether the songs were intended ironically or not, they made me want to flee."
Dined on 02/14/2012
2005
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, great for lunch
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Review 34 for Laili
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Laili is a little known find
OpenTable Diner Since
Dined on 02/14/2012
2010
Dined on 02/14/2012
2010
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Laili is a little known find in Santa Cruz! Up-scale, trendy, chic with very reasonable prices and DELICIOUS food! Exceptional beers and wines! LOVED it! Try it and you won't be disappointed!"
Dined on 02/14/2012
2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, great for lunch, hot spot
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Review 35 for Laili
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
A New Find in Santa Cruz
OpenTable Diner Since
Dined on 02/14/2012
2010
Dined on 02/14/2012
2010
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Laili offers a unique dining experience. The food is Mediterranean. It is well-prepared and flavorful. The staff is knowledgeable and very attentive. I love the ambiance. The inside is elegantly decorated, and roomy so that you are not right on top of the next table. We will definitely return to this restaurant."
Dined on 02/14/2012
2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, notable wine list, great for lunch
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Review 36 for Laili
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
We love Laili. It is consistently
OpenTable Diner Since
Dined on 02/14/2012
2004
Dined on 02/14/2012
2004
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"We love Laili. It is consistently a really tasty dining experience, and the service is always exceptional."
Dined on 02/14/2012
2004
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for outdoor dining, romantic, special occasion
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Review 37 for Laili
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Wow. What a find. Lots of
OpenTable Diner Since
Dined on 02/12/2012
2009
Dined on 02/12/2012
2009
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Wow. What a find. Lots of interesting menu items. Prices more than reasonable."
Dined on 02/12/2012
2009
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
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Review 38 for Laili
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
What a great menu. Interesting,
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"What a great menu. Interesting, full of flavor and different. The appetizers were especially good. My chicken dish was a bit overcooked and dry. The others at the table enjoyed their entrees without issue. Service could have been a bit more professional by removing dishes and glasses more quickly."
Dined on 02/11/2012
2004
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, hot spot
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Review 39 for Laili
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
The Pumpkin Boranee was delicious
OpenTable Diner Since
Dined on 02/11/2012
2012
Dined on 02/11/2012
2012
Food
(Fair)
2
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"The Pumpkin Boranee was delicious and the best part of our meal. The flat bread with dipping sauce was yummy. We found the Anar Chicken to be too sweet and the Pomegranate Eggplant did not taste good. I think the Kabobs may be a better choice."
Dined on 02/11/2012
2012
Special Features: fit for foodies
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Review 40 for Laili
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
I had avoided Laili for a
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"I had avoided Laili for a while thanks to a few underwhelming experiences, but this lunch reminded me why I liked it so much early on. The flatbread and accompanying dip are as addictive as ever. The lamb wrap was bigger and better than I remembered, with delicious yogurt sauce and pickled onions. Though I would have preferred lamb slices to ground-meat kebabs, the meat was tender and flavorful. I liked the arugula salad, too, though it was a little unwieldy to eat. Damien was a friendly and attentive server."
Dined on 02/07/2012
2005
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for lunch
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Review 41 for Laili
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
This was our second time to
OpenTable Diner Since
Dined on 01/27/2012
2006
Dined on 01/27/2012
2006
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"This was our second time to Laili and it was as good as the first. I love the pumpkin boranee which we had before, with the complimentary flatbread. I tried something new this time--the pomegranate eggplant which was almost meat-like in consistency--not at all mushy, but plump nuggets of eggplant seared with a spicy, sweet sauce somewhat like hoisin sauce. It came with fragrant jasmine rice and sauteed chard. At the last visit, I had the wonderful grilled prawn salad. Everyone happy with their dishes, that included the lamb kebob, trout and flatbread with onion and cheese. Delicious food beautifully presented in a chic setting. Will make it a point to go there every time we are in Santa Cruz!"
Dined on 01/27/2012
2006
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, kid-friendly, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, great for lunch, hot spot
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Review 42 for Laili
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Consistently Awesome!
OpenTable Diner Since
Dined on 01/28/2012
2011
Dined on 01/28/2012
2011
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Consistently Awesome Every Time! Regardless of what time of day or what time of year, the experience is fabulous! During warmer weather dining in the walled courtyard garden is like a temporary escape to historic Italy. The main dining room is wonderful with the high ceilings, open floor plan and serene decor-the perfect backdrop for the exquisite cuisine they offer. With special food restrictions due to health issues, the staff always accommodate me with delicious plant-based low fat choices. Laili is my favorite restaurant in both Santa Cruz and Monterey Counties."
Dined on 01/28/2012
2011
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, great for lunch, hot spot
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Review 43 for Laili
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Fantastic for vegetarians.
OpenTable Diner Since
Dined on 01/27/2012
2010
Dined on 01/27/2012
2010
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Fantastic for vegetarians. 60% of dishes have no meat!"
Dined on 01/27/2012
2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for brunch, great for outdoor dining, kid-friendly, late-night find, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, great for lunch
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Review 44 for Laili
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
We had the lamb kabobs, my
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"We had the lamb kabobs, my husband had the cauliflower soup and I had the pumpkin bournee for starters, all very good. We were very happy to discover Laili on Open Table, and although we go to Santa Cruz often, had not been aware of their existence. So, thanks to Open Table!"
Dined on 01/21/2012
2007
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Review 45 for Laili
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Foods perfectly cooked, perfectly
OpenTable Diner Since
Dined on 01/21/2012
2012
Dined on 01/21/2012
2012
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Foods perfectly cooked, perfectly seasoned, perfectly presented. Make sure to get a reservation for Friday or Saturday evening. Try the cardamon sangria!"
Dined on 01/21/2012
2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, special occasion
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Review 46 for Laili
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Food was really good, though
OpenTable Diner Since
Dined on 01/20/2012
2010
Dined on 01/20/2012
2010
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Food was really good, though we ordered multiple appetizers and interestingly they brought us what they called their complimentary nan bread. Without the complimentary nan we would of had nothing to eat the appetizers with as hummus requires something. Also with 4 people and the appetizers the one nan did not last long.. We had to continue to wait for more nan to eat our appetizers and the food came and we were still trying to get nan for our appetizers. There was no room for all the plates on the table. The wine list is limited but okay. Might check to see if they have a corkage fee. Overall we will be definately back for an evening out. Also it was $50 per person with drinks."
Dined on 01/20/2012
2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem, special occasion, hot spot
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Ratings-Only Reviews for Laili
Based on the average of (67) ratings-only reviews
Overall
(Outstanding)
4.3
/
5
Food
(Outstanding)
4.3
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
4.2
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
4.1
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic