Dine An insider’s guide to restaurants and food in the

Dine

AN INSIDER’S GUIDE TO RESTAURANTS AND GOOD FOOD IN THE BAY AREA EDITED BY MIMI TOWLE

Mixed Berry Tart

• CHAMPAGNE BAKERY French This casual bakery displays freshly made pastries, croissants, tarts, cookies and cakes to be enjoyed indoors or out on the patio. Brioche French toast and a French dip sandwich with Swiss cheese are among the many menu options. Catering is also available. 103 Corte Madera Town Ctr, 415.927.5470, champagnebakery.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

BRICK & BOTTLE

California From private parties to catered events, chef Bob Simontacchi’s menu offers seasonal selections made with local ingredients. Enjoy signature dishes like orzo mac ‘n’ cheese with smoked Gouda and local favorites like 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

IL FORNAIO Italian Sausalito’s Larry Mindel hit a home run with this upscale Italian restaurant franchise. Aside from the awardwinning 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 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? Enjoy a drink and hear local musicians at the well-known piano bar. 1585 Casa Buena Dr, 415.924.2081, marinjoesrestaurant.com

FAIRFAX

123 BOLINAS California This Fairfax spot was created by four friends who aimed to showcase seasonal fare in a relaxing, intimate environment. Enjoy locally brewed beer, smallproduction wines and one of the many cheese boards as you take in the view of Bolinas Park through the floor-toceiling windows. 123 Bolinas St, 415.488.5123, 123bolinas.com

IRON SPRINGS PUB &

BREWERY American Choose from an extensive beer list, and enjoy your selection with an ale-braised BBQ pork sandwich, prawn tacos or the house-ground chicken bacon cheeseburger. 765 Center Blvd, 415.485.1005, ironspringspub.com

PANCHO VILLA’S

Mexican Chef Francisco has been turning out treats, like pollo relleno (stuffed with cream cheese, sautéed spinach and red peppers) and grilled fish tacos with chipotle, since 1976. Enjoy happy hour specials all week from 4 to 7 p.m. 1625 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, 415.459.0975, panchosfairfax.com

STEAKHOUSE GRILL

& BAR American This steakhouse at Deer Park Villa has been around nearly a century, making it more than your typical steak spot. The longtime gathering place features a daily happy hour, live entertainment and a large, heated deck. 367 Bolinas Rd, 415.456.8084, deerparksteakhousegrill.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, funin-the-sun music, large televisions displaying surfers riding waves, a full bar and a menu that includes fish tacos, salads and burgers. The only thing missing is the sand at this upbeat eatery. 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. 800 College Ave, 415.454.9292

HALF DAY CAFE

American Tucked away in a setting of intertwining ivy and large open windows, this café is the perfect breakfast nook and is also open for brunch and lunch. 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. Try the classic grilled items, like the roasted tri-tip sandwich or the sloppy joe. Marin Country Mart, 2405 Larkspur Landing Circle, 415.448.5810, belcampomeatco.com

KATHLEEN DUGHI JEWELER

HAND-FABRICATED FINE JEWELRY EXQUISITE CUSTOM DESIGNS

11 BERNARD STREET MILL VALLEY 415.383.0462

WWW . KATHLEENDUGHI . COM

Squash Soup

EL HUARACHE LOCO

Mexican Chef Veronica Salazar’s menu has gained quite a following by way of the authentic Mexico City dishes. 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

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. 25 Ward St, 415.891.8577, farm houselocal.com

FARMSHOP California Farmshop Marin has customers clamoring for cocktails and a delicious assortment of California-centric cuisine. Marin Country Mart, 2233 Larkspur Landing Circle, 415.755.6700, farm shopla.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. 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 • FENIX California An intimate livemusic venue featuring 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

THE TAVERN AT LARK

CREEK American The next chapter in the 1888 Victorian Murphy House, formerly known as Lark Creek Inn, is being written by chef Aaron Wright. Try menu items such as lamb fusilli, Alaskan halibut and vegetable rigatoni a la carte, or opt for the prix fixe menu. 234 Magnolia Ave, 415.924.7766, tavernatlarkcreek.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

BOO KOO Asian Authentic Asian street food is now available for $10 or less. The restaurant offers options for every eater—vegans, gluten-frees, 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

BUCKEYE ROADHOUSE

American Oysters Bingo, baby back ribs and the Chili-Lime “Brick” Chicken are a few of the satisfying, comfort-food-style menu items that have made this classic roadhouse a favorite since the ’30s. The warm, dark-wood bar with red leather booths is a popular spot for cocktails, conversations or a light meal. 15 Shoreline Hwy, 415.331.2600, buckeyeroadhouse.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 DIPSEA CAFE Comfort This longtime breakfast spot has been serving up tasty pancakes and egg dishes with homemade biscuits since 1986. Try a biscuit with a poached egg and sausage — or just plain butter. Lunch specialties include BLTs, tuna melts and generous Cobb salads; enjoy Greek-inspired dinners in the later hours. 200 Shoreline Hwy, 415.381.0298, dipseacafe.com 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. Choose from a large selection of small plates, including king oyster mushrooms, roasted potatoes and grilled squid, and a small list of large portions like rabbit confit. 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. 475 E Strawberry Dr, 415.381.4400, nourish.harbor-point.com

PEARL’S PHAT

BURGERS American Dubbed a silver-spoon alternative to a greasyspoon diner by The New York Times, Pearl’s has a loyal following for the big juicy all-natural patties (vegetarian, turkey, beef, buffalo or grilled chicken) served up with tasty sides such as garlic or sweet potato fries, shakes and seasonal smoothies. Take out or eat in, if you can get a seat. 8 E. Blithedale Ave, 415.381.6010, pearlsdeluxe.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. 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

Signature Burgers in a Bowl

PIZZA ANTICA Italian This Strawberry Shopping Center spot boasts amazing thincrust pizza along with an array of antipasti and hearty salads. Wine is served by the glass, half carafe or bottle. 800 Redwood Hwy, 415.383.0600, pizzaantica.com

THE PLANT CAFE

California One of San Francisco’s favorite organic cafes has found a home north of the Golden Gate. The Plant offrs affrdable, delicious and healthy food made from local, organic ingredients. Stop by for the California-inspired meal, raw organic juice, a diet-supplementing smoothie or a delicious dessert. Strawberry Village Shopping Center, 415.388.8658, theplantcafe.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 smalltown feel. Enjoy the mix of Mexican and traditional breakfast fare. 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

SUPER DUPER BURGER

American “Fast food burgers, slow food values” is this burger joint’s motto. Prepared with 100 percent allnatural beef that’s ground fresh daily, these patties will make your mouth water. 430 Miller Ave, 415.380.8555, superdupersf.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. Offering breakfast, lunch, dinner and weekend brunch, the menu includes brown-butter scrambled eggs on avocado toast, crispy chicken sliders with gingery cabbage slaw and vegan Thai spring rolls with sweet and sour sauce. 19 Corte Madera Ave, 415.388.3850, sweet watermusichall.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 allnatural 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

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 TOAST American Take the kids out familystyle breakfast at this cozy venue; Toast is on the small side, so be sure to allot time for a wait. Lunch and dinner are served, too. 31 Sunnyside Ave, 415.388.2500, toastmillvalley.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 VASCO Italian Whether you’re at a table, the bar or the back counter, you can expect an intimate and tasty dining experience in this one-room trattoria. Try one of the pasta dishes or thincrust wood fired pizzas. 106 Throckmorton Ave, 415.381.3343, vascomillvalley.com

NOVATO

EXTREME PIZZA

American Pizza by the slice or pie — including gluten-free options. Come up with your own creation or choose one of the restaurant’s favorites, like the Mr. Pestato Head: homemade pesto sauce, potatoes, red onions, feta, fresh basil and mozzarella. 104 Vintage Way, 415.898.6575, extremepizza.com 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

SMASHBURGER

American This burger joint invented, and makes use of, a patented tool that smashes a meatball into the perfect burger patty while it’s on the grill. Enjoy that newfangled burger with a Häagen-Dazs milkshake and a side of haystack onion rings. 7320 Redwood Blvd, 415.408.6560, smashburger.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

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

INSALATA’S

Mediterranean Awardwinning chef Heidi Krahling offers Mediterranean and Middle Eastern dishes prepared with local organic produce and artisan meats. 120 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, 415.457.7700, insalatas.com

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

Carnitas at Copita in Sausalito

Urban Remedy welcomes Beauty Icon Cindy Crawford, To our Healthy Living Team. Connected through our shared passion for delicious, organic juices and meals that promote wellness, together we will be making healthy living more accessible.

In March we will be expanding our healthy food options. Come try our raw lasagne and pasta dishes.

15 E. Blithedale Ave. Mill Valley • 1904 4th Street San Rafael, CA 94901

Mon-Fri 8am-7pm, Sat-Sun 10am-6pm • 1 (855) UR-JUICE www.urbanremedy.com