We went on a weeknight, so avoided some of the long waits other people have experienced, especially on the weekends. We have been twice, once they were taking reservations and once they weren't. So that is a puzzle. But they do take your cell phone number and call when you are up. It can take a long time so if... More

Lillian's is something of a sentimental favorite for me. My girlfriend used to live in the neighborhood, within walking distance of this little hole-in-the-wall. We have celebrated everything from birthdays to Fridays here and I have loved every meal. I can highly recommend the Sunday gravy, a delicious stewed meat sauce which you can have over your choice of pasta... More

Just fantastic food. Stopped by Santa Cruz on the way to S.F. and found this on Yelp. It is always a good sign when people waiting out the door. Worth the wait. The Sunday Gravy is the way to go, but especially with Polenta (skip the meat balls).

This is a small but very busy restaurant. The reason it is so busy is the food is so good. They don't take reservations but you can give them your cell number and go have a drink at the Crepe Place a few doors down and they will let you know when your table is ready. Consistently good food, a... More

Awesome italian food - came back for second visit in 3 years. Everyone in our party of 4 had something different and we shared - all amazing. Worth the 30 minute wait we endured outside past our reservation. Not many tables and when they turn slowly - you wait. Highly recommend. Even better with almost no wait for lunch.

We dropped in at 5:45 on a Tuesday night to find a 45 minute queue and the wait was so worthwhile. But I would advise people to book or be prepared for a wait. The service was friendly and our 3 young children were made to feel more than welcome. The food was fantastic, the best pasta meat sauce my... More

On mini-vacation to Santa Cruz, and having decided on Italian for dinner we decided to give Lillian's Italian Kitchen a try. We were not disappointed! Excellent food, friendly service. We got there early, so no wait, but the restaurant quickly filled up and when we left people were standing in line. This was on a Tuesday night, not weekend. I... More

Yes yes and yes it is much worth the wait. Fresh pasta creative dishes what more could you ask for?!?! Highly recommend this mom and pop pasta shop! I usually like to try one of the specials but, my husband really likes the lasagna.

Like the other reviews said, local and put your name in early and come back in an hour. They are pretty accurate with being timely. Good food, good service, comfortable atmosphere. I'd go back for sure.