The Cats - Los Gatos, California

Shanna N.

The service was a little slow, but they were crowded, so understandable. We got the pork ribs and they were amazing!!!! Gladly took leftovers home. After dinner we moved to the bar section to listen to the band and get dessert. We enjoyed ourselves.

Sara O.

We made a reservation and despite the place being empty, they tried to seat us next to the band who was running warm ups. They made it right and moved us to the lower room which was great since we had no idea they had live music and the place packed out, wall to wall, with teens/college aged kids for the show. Service was kind but very slow and we had to ask for more drinks which took a while. Drink list was short. Food was a mixed bag; most of my table mostly enjoyed it. The cornbread was…not bread…but more of a mush. Wasn’t a fan. My chili was supposed to have brisket burnt ends but they brought me a small bowl of brisket pieces after they had already served me and it was just regular chopped brisket, but kudos to them for noticing they forgot the meat. Because service took forever, we didn’t opt for dessert. They did have an interesting Filipino menu, and I wonder if that food might be even better than the BBQ? One note—the band area was absolutely packed and the one and only bathroom was behind that area so you had to push through all the people to get there. Overall, I wouldn’t go again but for the crowd who loves live music, I can see the appeal.

Susanne M.

We haven't been here since the new owners. We had pulled pork plate with pineapple slaw & onion rings plus a baked potato. Pulled pork was so tender and moist. Bake potato was cooked to perfection. Beer and wine list are a little slim.
Great service.
Live music with Crossing Dana... They were very good with a great lead singer.
We'll be back for sure!

Nicholas P.

Would not recommend as the meat is mediocre and the location is quite out of the way. Possibly only worth stopping by if you're passing to or from Santa Cruz.

The meat is on the dry side and quite flavourless. Lots of color but not a lot of substance. I found myself dunking it in the spicy BBQ sauce to make it edible. It was also a bit on the cold side. Sides were great though! Would recommend the chili. That side was eons better than the meat.

The portion size is decent for the price, not much to comment on there.

Service is a mixed bag. Some friendly folk and some that look like they hate their job.

Live music was ok, but doesn't really increase the appeal for this spot.

Overall, a questionable experience. Nothing horrible, just nothing particular positive either.

Nessa G.

I came here to see a friend perform and was a but disappointed at the service and food! However, the server made it "right" and I would be willing to return...just NOT for the chili.

See, when I arrived the server ignored me for a looooong time (like 10 minute). I waved a few time but was essential ignored. When she finally decided to address and ask what I wanted I asked about the chili and it was recommended. Listen, when I tell you! That chili tasted "nothing" like chili. Tasted more like smoked meats with some "tomatoey" chili sauce mixed in.

The chili was stringy tough salty meat with hardly any beans (don't wanna have that debate here, lol) and it wasn't described as "brisket" chili. I tried to "shovel it down"! I just could NOT! The corm muffin fell apart (not in a good way) with too much corn and not enough muffin. I finally flagged the server down (the one who essentially ignored me when I arrive) and told I "I just can't do it! It's too salty and just not that great to me (trying to be nice)." I squeezed out of my disappointment and frustration...."Especially after you ignored me for so long when I first arrived." I respect that the server took accountability and completely recognized her error and apologized. She also, replaced that chili (?) with some really good hot crispy onion rings and a drink on the house. Also, their bbq sauce is good. I used it for the onion rings.

Imma go back again to see my friend perform BUT I'd probably eat before I got and just get the onion rings.

*Sidenote I'm REAL particular about bbq and I did try some meat from others....a bit dry.

Mary B.

First time back to The Cats since 2019...COVID changed many things... New owners doing a pretty good job keeping traditional CATS BBQ tasting good, like authentic St. Louis style, plus adding more treats, like the delicious Caramel Apple Blossom pastry (I was pleased because I'm allergic to chocolate!!).
We went on Friday night because our friend sings with the Band, ENCORE. The Cats has live music each night they are open: Friday! Saturday amd Sunday. Due to many customers with the Band, service was a bit slow. We weren't complaining sitting in the back, but our lovely waitress felt bad and gave us the tasty Caramel Apple Pastry 'on the house'.
They also do a brisk catering business.

Arend B.

My wife and I went here for our anniversary and the food was amazing. The beef ribs and crispy ham hock were tender and flavorful. The table bbq sauces were excellent. There's live music, which I could take or leave. But I think most people would appreciate the band.

J F.

My first time finally stopped on my way home to Santa Cruz. Was immediately greeted by a young lady name Promise. You should just go to the restaurant to see her nice smile. Service was quick to order and receive you food. The BBQ beans and corn bread was amazing. I wish the pork ribs were a little more tender where the meat comes off the bone easily. I've only had baby back ribs in life so these larger pork ribs was a new experience. The tenderness was similar to a pork chop. Flavor was good especially dipped in the BBQ beans. Price was very fair and portions were adequate. I then received a apple pie yet it has some interesting cream to top. Yet if you ever try this it is BOMB 💣 💣 💣. So highly recommend the food. Crossing freeway be careful. Yet if you want amazing service with a smile that will make your day see "Promise". Oh if your good at rubix cube, she might have one for you to solve. I couldn't solve it.