22 minute read
Dine An insider’s guide to restaurants and food in the Bay Area.
Dine
AN INSIDER’S GUIDE TO RESTAURANTS AND GOOD FOOD IN THE BAY AREA EDITED BY MIMI TOWLE
Arancini alla Milanese
• VALENTI & CO. Italian This bright and cozy space is the ideal environment for a sampling of authentic Italian cuisine from Chef Valenti, a Milanese transplant. Though Valenti sticks to his culinary roots, the dishes at his Marin restaurant make use of local ingredients. A seat at the vinobar offers a prime view of the open kitchen. 337 San Anselmo Ave, 415.454.7800, valentico.com CORTE MADERA
BENISSIMO Italian “Benissimo” means “really, really good” in Italian. Aside from the daily 4 to 6:30 p.m. happy hour, when drinks are $3 to $5 and small plates $5 to $7, the menu offers a large selection of pizza, pasta and large plates, like grilled pork loin and pollo alla marsala. 18 Tamalpais Dr, 415.927.2316, benissimos.com
LA MAISON DE LA
REINE Vietnamese Enjoy family-style Vietnamese dishes at this lovely restaurant, located in the Town Center. The crunchy cabbage chicken salad with peanuts, fresh spring rolls and combinations of pho are popular picks. 346 Corte Madera Town Ctr, 415.927.0288
MARIN JOE’S Italian This Marin mainstay has been around for over 50 years. Choose from a menu of soups, salads, seafood, mesquite-grilled or sautéed meats and a plethora of pasta options guaranteed to satisfy. For a fun addition to your dining experience, order the Caesar salad — the server will prepare the dressing at your table. Not looking for a meal? 1585 Casa Buena Dr, 415.924.2081, marinjoesrestaurant.com
PACIFIC CATCH
Pan-Asian The wellpriced menu features a bounty of freshly caught items and Pacific Rim–inspired small or main plates, including generously portioned wasabi bowls filled with white or brown rice, veggies and your choice of chicken, beef or fish (cooked or raw). Pacific Catch is successfully modeled after the Paia Fish House on Maui, down to the chalkboard menu and Hawaiian music. 133 Corte Madera Town Ctr, 415.927.3474, pacificcatch.co
SEA THAI BISTRO
Asian SEA stands for Southeast Asian, and co-owner and executive chef Tony Ounpamornchai infuses his cooking with Thai and other Asian flavors to create innovative dishes. The menu features sustainable and local ingredients and is accompanied by an extensive wine list. 60 Corte Madera Ave, 415.927.8333, seathaibistro.com
THE COUNTER
California/American The folks at the Counter have taken the “have it your way” motto to a whole new level. Known
for all-natural Angus beef, turkey, chicken and veggie burgers, the restaurant also offers a burger bowl (all the ingredients without the bun). And if you want a martini with your burger, no problem—there’s a full bar. 201 Corte Madera Town Ctr 415.924.7000, thecounterburger.com
THREE BIRDS WINE
BAR California This oneroom bar and wine shop features more than 20 options by the glass, and a nice selection of bottles to take home. Enjoy free corkage for your Three Birds bottles at select local restaurants and an all day happy hour every Monday. 207 Corte Madera Ave, 415.927.9466, threebirdswinebar.com
FAIRFAX
FRADELIZIO’S Italian Family-owned for 15 years, Fradelizio’s blends Northern Italian cuisine with Californiainspired healthy fare using the freshest ingredients possible. The homemade gnocchi is a crowd-pleasing favorite. 35 Broadway Blvd, 415.459.1618, fradelizios.com SORELLA CAFFE Italian Run by sisters Sonia and Soyara, Sorella — which means “sister” in Italian — serves up fresh Italian food with a northern influence. Customer favorites include the cioppino, butternut squash ravioli and Pollo alla Sorella. Another highlight is the giant wheel of Grana Padana cheese, which is passed around from table to table. 107 Bolinas Rd, 415.258.4520, sorellacaffe.co
STEAKHOUSE GRILL
& BAR American This steakhouse at Deer Park Villa has been around nearly a century, making it more than your typical steak spot. 367 Bolinas Rd, 415.456.8084, deerpark steakhousegrill.com
GREENBRAE
BISTRO VIS À VIS
California This little bistro features the cooking of Soo Young Kim, who previously acted as owner, chef and sommelier at Petaluma’s Sooze Wine Bar. The neighborhood spot boasts outdoor seating for casually fine dining, a wine bar and a menu including duck confit and wine-braised short ribs. 282 Bon Air Ctr, 415.925.4370, bistrovisavis.com
WIPEOUT BAR &
GRILL American The family-friendly spot has surfboards hanging from the ceiling, fun-in-the-sun music, large televisions displaying surfers riding waves, a full bar and a menu that includes fish tacos, salads and burgers. 302 Bon Air Ctr, 415.461.7400, wipeoutbarandgrill.com
KENTFIELD
AMBROSIA Italian This family friendly Italian joint serves traditional pizzas and homemade pastas, with one of the best wine-by-the-glass programs in Marin. Owner Mark Leslie is bringing his pizza, pasta and passion for good wines by the glass to Kentfield— check Facebook for details. 800 College Ave, 415.454.9292
Eat American. Dream French.
• Lunch, Brunch, Dinner • Full Bar • Private Events • Business Lunches • Catering • Free Delivery to Sausalito
39 Caledonia Street, Sausalito (415) 887-9047 • eatf3.com Mon-Fri 11:30AM - 10:00PM Sat-Sun 10:00AM - 10:00PM
HALF DAY CAFE
American Tucked away in a setting of intertwining ivy and large open windows, this Cafe is the perfect breakfast nook and is also open for brunch and lunch. The menu includes coffee drinks, exceptional pastries and much more. Enjoy a casual meal inside or on the outdoor patio. 848 College Ave, 415.459.0291, halfdaycafe.com
LARKSPUR
BELCAMPO MEAT
CO. American The goods at this meatery are delivered from the certified-organic Belcampo Farms near Mount Shasta, dedicated to practicing a holistic approach to pasture management. Marin Country Mart, 2405 Larkspur Landing Circle, 415.448.5810, belcampomeatco.com
EL HUARACHE LOCO
Mexican Chef Veronica Salazar’s menu has gained quite a following by way of the authentic Mexico City dishes. From mini huaraches (filled corn masa cakes) to the foot-long huarache with two salsas, crema, queso fresco and two toppings of your choice, you’re sure to get a true taste of a homemade Mexican meal. Marin Country Mart, 1803 Larkspur Landing Circle, 415.925.1403, huaracheloco.com
EMPORIO RULLI Italian Pastry chef Gary Rulli is renowned for his Northern Italian specialties and treats. The Larkspur location (there are three others) is a favored spot for lunch as well as coffee and a sweet treat. 464 Magnolia Ave, 415.924.7478, rulli.com
Tacos de Pescado
• MARINITAS Mexican The sister restaurant of Insalata’s, Marinitas continues to flourish as a bastion of creative Latin cuisine in Marin. This is not your typical south-of-the-border spot. The festive atmosphere and funky decor complement the excellent food for a classy, lively experience. This place gets packed, so make reservations. 218 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, 415.454.8900, marinitas.net
FABRIZIO RISTORANTE
Italian This restaurant was opened by Italian transplant Fabrizio in the early ‘80s. Swing by for traditional Italian dishes and an extensive wine list featuring bottles from all over Italy. Outdoor seating makes the experience even more special. 455 Magnolia Ave, 415.924.3332, fabrizioristorante.com
FARM HOUSE LOCAL
California Downtown Larkspur’s newest gem is sure to please with simple, healthy food in a warm, cozy atmosphere — both inside and outside on their covered patio. With a seasonal menu that follows what is fresh and local, chef David Monson creates dishes such as fluffy omelets stuffed with local meats, cheeses and vegetables, and made with Glaum eggs from the South Bay. 25 Ward St, 415.891.8577, farmhouselocal.com FARMSHOP California Originally based in L.A., Farmshop Marin has customers clamoring for cocktails and a delicious assortment of California-centric cuisine. Call ahead for a reservation — this place is always packed. Marin Country Mart, 2233 Larkspur Landing Circle, 415.755.6700, farmshopla.com
LEFT BANK
RESTAURANT French Known for awardwinning French cuisine and a lively brasserie ambience, this corner spot on Magnolia Avenue rates high with locals. Those with a small appetite (or budget) can opt for happy hour (4 to 6:30 p.m. and 9 p.m. to close, M–F) appetizers, most priced under $6. 507 Magnolia Ave, 415.927.3331, leftbank.com
MARIN BREWING
CO American Grab a cold beer made on site and pair it with fish ‘n’ chips — fresh cod dipped in Mt. Tam pale ale batter, served with steak fries and homemade tartar sauce — or another item from the all-American menu. Marin Country Mart, 1809 Larkspur Landing Circle, 415.461.4677, marinbrewing.com PICCO California Popular since its inception, dishes like mini-burgers , seasonally driven menu items, and risotto made every half hour, keep patrons coming back. The Picco Pizzeria and Wine Bar next door is cozy (not many seats) and famous for its wood-fired pizzas, great wine selection and soft-serve Straus Family Creamery ice cream. 320 Magnolia Ave, 415.924.0300, restaurantpicco.com
RUSTIC BAKERY
California Try a large house-made pastry, an artisanal salad or a mouthwatering sandwich at this Marin favorite. Two Larkspur locations: Marin Country Mart, 415.461.9900; 1139 Magnolia Ave, 415.925.1556, rusticbakery.com SUSHI-KO Japanese Choose from a large selection of maki, nigiri and sashimi before catching a movie right across the street. Marin Country Mart, 1819 Larkspur Landing Circle, 415.461.8400, sushi-ko.com
YANKEE PIER American This family-friendly, casual clam shack is harbored in a quaint house built in 1924. Known for beer-battered fish ‘n’ chips, clam chowder and tasty salads, Yankee Pier serves fresh seafood delivered daily from both coasts. 286 Magnolia Ave, 415.924.7676, yankeepier.com
MILL VALLEY
BALBOA CAFE MILL
VALLEY California The San Francisco institution has already become a place to see and be seen in Mill Valley. 38 Miller Ave, 415.381.7321, balboacafe.com BOO KOO Asian The restaurant offers options for every eater—vegans, glutenfrees, vegetarians and carnivores alike. Menu items include chicken pho, vegan summer rolls, pad thai and five-spice pork satay, all made with organic, locally sourced veggies and proteins. 25 Miller Ave, 415.888.8303, eatbookoo.com
BUNGALOW 44
American Much like sister restaurant Buckeye Roadhouse, Bungalow 44 offers a mean dose of homey carbo- and lipid-laden dishes, such as the burger and the fried chicken with truffle fries. The bar is a neighborhood favorite, known for tasty spirits and eye candy. 44 E. Blithedale Ave, 415.381.2500, bungalow44.com
CAFE DEL SOUL
California Healthy options become addicting ones at this Tam Valley eatery. Once you stop in for the deliciously fresh Hummus Yummus wrap, you’ll have to return to sample the Chipotle Sunrise Rice Bowl. 247 Shoreline Hwy, 415.388.1852, cafedelsoul.net EL PASEO American This Marin chophouse continues to impress as the years pass — the restaurant itself has been around since 1947. The menu speaks to the restaurant’s elegance, with offerings like roasted bone marrow, crispy duck wings and the El Paseo short rib. 17 Throckmorton Ave, 415.388.0741, elpaseomillvalley.com
FRANTOIO RISTORANTE
ITALIANO Italian Known for its in-house olive press, superior olive oil and excellent Italian cuisine, this spot is a great choice for an intimate dinner, celebration and anything in bewteen. For special occasions and private parties, reserve the olive-press room. The popular weekday happy hour starts at 4:30 p.m. 152 Shoreline Hwy, 415.289.5777, frantoio.com HARMONY Chinese Enjoy a lighter take on Chinese at this restaurant, nestled in the Strawberry Village. The barbecue pork bun is filled with housemade roasted meat in a savory sauce, and fresh mussels are accented with red chili and Thai basil. Pair your pick with wine, beer or tea. Be sure to check out the weekday lunch special for an excellent deal. Strawberry Village, 415.381.5300, harmonyrestaurant group.com LA GINESTRA Italian A favorite family spot for over 30 years; getting a table or booth here can take awhile. While this old-school Italian eatery is known for traditional pastas, veal dishes, pizzas and dry martinis, the familiar waitstaff s also part of the attraction. 127 Throckmorton Ave, 415.388.0224, laginestramv.com
MILL VALLEY
BEERWORKS American Known for handcrafted beers, imported and local microbrews and house-made kombucha and root beer, this popular downtown Mill Valley neighborhood brewery recently doubled its space and expanded its food and beverage menu. 173 Throckmorton Ave, 415.888.8218, mill valleybeerworks.com
NOURISH GRILL
American This restaurant for the Club at Harbor Point is situated on the waterfront and open to the public. Open for brunch, lunch and dinner, it serves classics like grilled shrimp, and an all-American clubhouse burger.
PHOTO: JENNIFER BAGWELL PHOTOGRAPHY
Ricotta Ravioli
• BRICK & BOTTLE California From private parties to catered events, the menu offers seasonal selections made with local ingredients. Enjoy signature dishes like orzo mac ‘n’ cheese with smoked Gouda and saffron fettucine and tomato braised short ribs. The restaurant also hosts one of the best happy hours in town. 55 Tamal Vista Blvd, 415.924.3366, brickandbottle.com
475 E Strawberry Dr, 415.381.4400, nourish.harbor-point.com
PIAZZA D’ANGELO
Italian It’s always a party at this longstanding hot spot. A great place to meet up with friends for a fresh plate of pasta, or to make some new friends at the bar. Chef Andrea Guilini, originally from Venice, is known for his creative, seasonal dishes like the stuffed veal loin with wild mushrooms and house-made mozzarella. 22 Miller Ave, 415.388.2000, piazzadangelo.com
PIATTI RISTORANTE
AND BAR Italian The staff rides itself on capturing the warm and welcoming atmosphere of a traditional Italian trattoria. Get a table by the window or on the outdoor deck for a truly exceptional view right on the water. Peruse the impressive selection of Italian wines to accompany your rustic seasonal meal. 625 Redwood Hwy, 415.380.2525, piatti.com
ROBATA GRILL AND
SUSHI Japanese Robata translates as “by the fireside”; fittingly, food here can be cooked on an open fire and served in appetizer-size portions to pass around the table. Or simply order your own sushi or entrée from the menu. 591 Redwood Hwy, 415.381.8400, robatagrill.com
SHORELINE COFFEE
SHOP American Tucked away in a parking lot at Tam Junction, this coffee shop is a funky diner with a small-town feel. 221 Shoreline Hwy, 415.388.9085
SOL FOOD Puerto Rican This Marin favorite has opened doors in Mill Valley, where they continue to serve up everyone’s favorite Puerto Rican cuisine. The line can get long, but the food is well worth it. 401 Miller Ave, 415.380.1986, solfoodrestaurant.com
SWEETWATER MUSIC
HALL CAFE American Located at the entrance of Sweetwater Music Hall, the cafe is a small oasis of calm, dedicated to the F.L.O.S.S. philosophy: Fresh, Local, Organic, Seasonal and Sustainable. 19 Corte Madera Ave, 415.388.3850, sweet watermusichall.com
THEP LELA Thai This jewel is tucked away in the back of Strawberry Village. Diners come for the tasty kee mao noodles, pad thai, fresh rolls and extensive bar menu. It’s also a great place for lunch. 615 Strawberry Village, 415.383.3444, theplela.com
TONY TUTTO PIZZA
Italian Tony has been pouring his passion for pizza into his daily dishes for two decades and his menu now includes family recipes. 246 E. Blithedale Ave, 415.383.8646, tonytuttopizza.com
NOVATO
FINNEGAN’S MARIN
American This restaurant — self-described as an “American bar and grill meets Irish pub” — features tasty appetizers, grilled flatbread pizzas, entrées such as New York steak and garlic herb chicken and a full bar. 877 Grant Ave, 415.899.1516, finnegansmarin.co HILLTOP 1892 California Situated on a historic estate in Novato with sweeping views, Hilltop 1892 offers classic favorites with a California flair. Open lunch through dinner, as well as Sunday brunch. 850 Lamont Ave, 415.893.1892, hilltop1892.com
RICKEY’S RESTAURANT & BAR
American Besides a full-service restaurant and bar (with banquet and meeting rooms), this comfort food bastion offers poolside dining and a garden patio overlooking green lawns. Visit during the summer from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. for live jazz to accompany your meal. 250 Entrada Dr, 415.883.9477, rickeysrestaurant.com
RUSTIC BAKERY
California Organic mouthwatering pastries, breads and sandwiches are on the menu here. Try the Marin Melt — Cowgirl Creamery’s Mt. Tam and Point Reyes’ Toma cheeses grilled on honey whole wheat bread, served with dressed baby greens and crisp apple slices. 1407 Grant Ave, 415.878.4952, rusticbakery.com TOAST American Sister to the popular Mill Valley location, Toast Novato features outdoor dining and contemporary architechture by Stanley Saitowitz. The spacious restaurant is ideal for large parties and families looking for a large plate of comfort food. 5800 Nave Dr, 415.382.1144, toastnovato.com
WILDFOX American Perched on the hillside off ighway 101, this rustic eatery with a mesquite grill features a menu full of comfort dishes, like seafood risotto with butternut squash. In the mood for a cigar? The restaurant has a lengthy list of options. 225 Alameda del Prado, 415.883.9125, wildfoxrestaurant.com SAN ANSELMO
COMFORTS CAFE
American This cozy spot features local favorites made with local ingredients. Stop in for breakfast, lunch, weekend brunch and offerings from the delicious deli selection. Be sure to try the Philly cheesesteak and Chinese chicken salad, both classics. 335 San Anselmo Ave, 415.454.9840, comfortscafe.com
CUCINA RESTAURANT
AND WINE BAR Italian Relax with a glass of wine and have a slice of the savory thin crust pizza, finished with toppings like truffle oil and fontina cheese. 510 San Anselmo Ave, 415.454.2942, cucinarestaurantand winebar.com
FLOUR CRAFT BAKERY
California Flour Craft is San Anselmo’s answer to local gluten-free needs: Artisan pastries, fresh bread, desserts, special occasion cakes
and lunch items are all gluten- and peanutfree. Customer favorites include the Earl Grey Chocolate Tea Cake and Flourless Hazelnut Fudge. 702 San Anselmo Ave, 415.453.3100, flourcraftbakery.co
L’APPART RESTO
French Owners Bruno Denis and Olivier Souvestre of Le Garage fame offer a menu most Francophiles would be proud of, complete with items like roasted bone marrow and cassoulet. 636 San Anselmo Ave, 415.256.9884, lappartresto.com
MH BREAD & BUTTER
California This one-stop shop offers everything from coffee and pastries to artisan bread and braised meats. Highquality ingredients and a comfortable atmosphere make MH worth checking out. 101 San Anselmo Ave, 415.755.4575, mhbreadandbutter.com
PIZZALINA Italian Pizzalina is the perfect place to relax and unwind with friends, family and neighbors. Pizzas are handmade and cooked in a wood oven; other classic Italian items include shrimp risotto and a burrata antipasto dish. Menus change daily according to the seasonal markets. 914 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, 415.256.9780, pizzalina.com
SAN RAFAEL
AMICI’S EAST COAST
PIZZERIA California The wide array of thincrust pizza includes the Siciliano, an enticing mix of mozzarella, slow-roasted garlic, sausage, broccoli and crushed red pepper flakes, sans tomato sauce. Gluten free crust is available. 1242 Fourth St, 415.455.9777, amicis.com
CREPEVINE American Bistro/Creperie Choose from a diverse menu of savory crepes, with favorites like the Italian crepe, filled with roasted peppers, eggplant, onions, artichoke hearts, tomato sauce and mozzarella. Sweet and savory crepes are available all day long, as are all breakfast items. 908 Fourth St, 415.257.8822, crepevine.com FENIX California An intimate live-music venue in the heart of downtown San Rafael. Fenix features globally inspired California cuisine with a Southern French twist. Dishes like fried green tomatoes or 72-hours sous-vide short ribs — accompanied by a glass from the extensive wine list — define the experience. 919 Fourth Street, 415.813.5600, fenixlive.com IL DAVIDE Italian A large selection of both Italian and California wines by the glass, along with the tiramisu, have kept locals coming back for years. Don’t leave without sampling the limoncello. 901 A St, 415.454.8080, ildavide.net
MULBERRY STREET
PIZZERIA Italian Chef Ted Rowe won first place in the Food Network Television Pizza Challenge with his For the Love of Mushroom pizza — sautéed mushrooms in a creamy garlic sauce and a red wine reduction atop a fresh pizza crust. Be sure to try other
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Pizza Margherita
unique pies, like the spicy Three Beer pizza and the clam and garlic pizza, as well. 101 Smith Ranch Rd, 415.472.7272, mulberry-street- pizzeria.com NAPOLI Italian This family-owned-andrun restaurant boasts a special craft beer program: They keep the prices down and the libations flowing, and about 45 wines and 25 beers (including some from Marin) are on the list at any given time. The pizza and pasta are East Coast Italian, with Marin and Bay Area accents. Gluten-free pizza and pasta available. 869 Fourth St, 415.459.3315, napolirestaurant.biz
ODALISQUE CAFE
Mediterranean This casual art cafe was inspired by La Grande Odalisque, an 1814 oil painting by JeanAuguste-Dominque Ingres. Menu items are built from seasonal items available at farmers’ markets and include pan-seared scallops, roasted butternut squash risotto and a variety of pizzettas. 1335 Fourth St, 415.460.1335, odalisquecafe.com
PIZZA ORGASMICA
American Enjoy indulgent favorites like the Serpent’s Kiss or Inspiration Point pies with a crisp beer, Orgasmica style. Eat in or order a halfbaked pizza to cook and enjoy at home. 812 Fourth St, 415.457.2337, pizzaorgasmica.com RANGE CAFE American With floor-to-ceiling windows positioned overlooking the grand Peacock Gap lawns, the Range Cafe is the perfect place to enjoy comforting American classics with an elegant twist. This inviting lunchtime cafe with its ice-cold lemonade and refreshing chardonnays makes a great dinner spot once the sun sets. 333 Biscayne Dr, 415.454.6450, rangecafe.net
SAN RAFAEL JOE’S
Italian Guido and Theresa Farina run this Marin institution, famous for • IL FORNAIO Italian Sausalito’s Larry Mindel hit a home run with this upscale Italian restaurant franchise. Aside from the award-winning breads, pizzas and pastas, the menu offers a variety of salads and carb-free entrées. 223 Corte Madera Town Ctr, 415.927.4400, ilfornaio.com
sophisticated yet casual Italian fare since 1947. The dining room boasts a friendly atmosphere and seating for 240, making it great for large parties. 931 Fourth St, 415.456.2425, srjoes.com SOL FOOD Puerto Rican Fast becoming a Marin legend, Sol Food whips up traditional Puerto Rican dishes just like the ones owner Sol Hernandez grew up eating. Favorites include the bistec sandwich, mofongo and fried plantains, but anything tastes good with a dash of the eatery’s signature hot sauce, which is for sale by the bottle (as is the lemon-garlic salad dressing). 901 Lincoln Ave, 415.451.4765, solfoodrestaurant.com
SUSHI TO DAI FOR
Japanese Snagging a seat in this popular Fourth Street sushi spot can be a challenge, but patience is rewarded with tasty and fresh sashimi, unique sushi rolls and great prices. 816 Fourth St, 415.721.0392
TERRAPIN CROSSROADS
American This waterfront restaurant and music venue — opened by local musician Phil Lesh — houses fresh food and local talent. The menu includes salads, savory dishes and wood-fired pizzas to go with a wide selection of beers, wines and cocktails. Come for the food, stay for the music. 100 Yacht Club Dr, 415.524.2773, terrapin crossroads.net
VIN ANTICO American This resurrected restaurant offers seasonal market-inspired cuisine like stone oven-baked flatbreads, handmade pasta and organic salads. The kitchen is open to the dining room, so try to snag a seat at the chef’s counter. 881 Fourth St, 415.721.0600, vinantico.com
SAUSALITO
ANGELINO
RESTAURANT Italian Father-and-son chefs Pasquale and Alfredo Ancona offer handmade pastas and seasonal antipasti at this authentic Italian restaurant, which has been showcasing cuisine of the Campania region for over 20 years. 621 Bridgeway, 415.331.5225, angelinorestaurant.com BAR BOCCE American Food just tastes better when you’re dining on a bayside patio with fire pits and a bocce ball court. Overseen by Robert Price of Buckeye and Bungalow 44, has become a local favorite. 1250 Bridgeway, 415.331.0555, barbocce.com
BARREL HOUSE
TAVERN California Stop by Barrel House for great local food enhanced by fantastic bay and city views. The relaxed urban envrionment is ideal for enjoying one of the restaurant’s barrel-aged cocktails. 660 Bridgeway, 415.729.9593, barrelhousetavern.com
CIBO Cafe Located in a historic brick building on Sausalito’s main drag, Cibo is a great place to a sip a quick cup of coffee outdoors. Husband-and-wife team Alfredo and Tera Ancona offer a menu of tarts, croissants, cookies, paninis and soups. Every dish is made from scratch with local and seasonal products. 1201 Bridgeway, 415.331.2426, cibosausalito.com
COPITA Mexican Chef Joanne Weir serves up fresh Mexican fare in the heart of downtown Sausalito. The ever-changing menu is always 100% gluten-free, and the in-house tequila bar offers over 30 varieties, available blanco, reposado or añejo. Enjoy your meal at the bar or on the outdoor patio. 739 Bridgeway, 415.331.7400, copitarestaurant.com
DAVEY JONES DELI
American Stationed in the New Bait Shop Market, Davey Jones Deli boasts houseroasted sandwich meats, healthy condiments and local, organic vegetables. 1 Gate 6 Rd, 415.331.2282, daveyjonesdeli.com
FAST FOOD FRANCAIS
French Owned and operated by the owners of Le Garage and L’Appart Resto, F3 serves brunch, lunch and dinner, all featuring “Frenchified” American comfort food. Sample a rotating menu including items like the Luxe burger (Diestel turkey, brie, lettuce and a fried egg topped with truffle aioli). Enjoy with a side of Brussels sprout chips or pomme dauphines (tater tots). 39 Caledonia St, 415.887.9047, eatf3.com
FENG NIAN Chinese This spacious hangout has been a popular spot for wonton soup, pot stickers and daily specials for nearly two decades. For an indulgent treat, order the Szechwan crispy calamari, honey-glazed walnut prawn or lemon chicken. Staying in? Feng Nian offers free delivery. Free delivery. 2650 Bridgeway, 415.331.5300, fengnian.com FISH Seafood The ultimate place to head for freshly caught fare. Order the fish tacos, ceviche and a bottle of wine and take in bay views and air on the deck. Casual; bring cash (lots of it!). 350 Harbor Dr, 415.331.3474, 331fish.co KITTI’S PLACE Thai/ California Owner Kitti Suthipipiat was the cook at Comforts in San Anselmo for many years and brings a certain knack for delicious Chinese chicken salad to her own endeavor. The regular menu items are sure to please, but try the weekly specials as well. 3001 Bridgeway, 415.331.0390, kittisplace.com LE GARAGE French Escape tourist-filled Sausalito for an indulgent brunch right on the water. The atmosphere is animated with light French music (á la Amélie), and the much-adored croquemonsieur is under $10. Opt for indoor or outdoor seating. 85 Liberty Ship Way, 415.332.5625, legaragebistro sausalito.com
MURRAY CIRCLE
American Cavallo Point’s acclaimed restaurant, features local seasonal fare by executive chef Justin Everett, with pairings from an extensive wine list and tempting desserts. Don’t forget to visit Farley Bar for cocktails with a view. 601 Murray Circle, 415.339.4750, cavallopoint.com
Red Wine Tapioca at Odalisque Cafe in San Rafael
Marin Country Club
Experience The Lifestyle: Golf – Tennis – Family
500 Country Club Drive, Novato www.marincountryclub.com • 415.382.6712 membership@marincountryclub.com
Marin Country Club is proudly managed by Troon Privé.