The Environmental Issue
Home Resources Guide
APRIL 2022
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Contents APRIL 202 2
FEATURES
IN MARIN
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Top hikes through Marin's stunning natural landscapes offer the chance to see whales, tule elk, elephant seals and more; plus, opportunities to volunteer.
We celebrate Earth Month by highlighting a local eco-warrior, sharing beach cleanup resources, and providing tips for reducing our impact on the planet.
Puerto Rican poet Raquel Salas Rivera explains how both his homeland and advocacy for immigrants and LGBTQ rights inspires his bilingual work.
Three local makers share their inspiration behind the products they create.
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These eco-friendly products are easy on the environment.
Fairfax-based solar industry expert Ted Walsh discusses how Marin is at the forefront of clean energy adoption.
Into the Wild
Currents
Swinging Around the Bay Play a round of golf on one of the Bay Area's many public golf courses.
Shop Local: A Sustainable Lifestyle
Author Talk: A Poet of Unity
Conversation: Selling Sunshine
FYI: Designing Women
For the cover, San Rafael-based wildlife and landscape photographer Chris Gould (@wild.slide.photography) photographed Mt. Tam at sunset.
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"Designing Women"
For tips, trends and things to do, follow our social accounts at @marinmagazine.com and subscribe to our Better Letter.
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Contents APRIL 202 2
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"New in Town"
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"Sustainable Sips"
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"Let It Flow"
DESTINATIONS
EAT & DRINK
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A dated Mill Valley cottage is transformed into a sanctuary for two artists.
Make lasting memories while helping the local community and environment on your next Hawaiian vacation.
We highlight where to go for delicious outdoor daytime eats.
Natural Beauty
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Zen and the Art of Design A Japanese garden is central to the redesign of this Los Altos home.
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Sustainably Chic These beautiful furniture finds are environmentally friendly, too.
Pay It Forward
What’s Hot: Brunch Never Gets Old
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MARIN HOME
We profile four wineries that are raising the bar with eco-friendly practices.
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A "Greener" Glass of Wine
Let It Flow A Ross home gets a family-friendly makeover.
COLUMNS
16 View From the Team 18 About Town 21 Your Voices 22 Connect With Us 24 New in Town 83 Dine 94 Calendar 96 Bay Area's Better Makers 122 Communities
THOMAS KUOH (DINING ROOM)
SPACES
10 APRIL 2022 MARIN
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Now Open!
Introducing Marin’s One-Of-A-Kind Fitness & Wellness Center A Locally Owned & Operated Business Warren Gendel Co-Founder & CEO Scott K. Raymond Co-Founder & Wellness Advisor
Membership Benefits Include • Unlimited access to over 50 weekly classes • Group Cycle, TRX, HIIT & Kettlebell classes • Huge Free Weight & Strength Training Areas • Yoga, Pilates Mat & Meditation classes • Free Evolt 360 Physical Fitness Assessment
Learn More
Club Evexia Amenities: • World Class Waterfront Location in Mill Valley • Mens & Womens Showers & Lockers with Towel Service • Exhale Lounge with Infrared Saunas (*upgraded membership) • 1-on-1 & Small Group Personal Training • Indoor & Outdoor Co-working Lounges • Coffee Bar & Urban Remedy Offerings Over 20,000 square feet of Fitness & Wellness Areas
WWW.CLUBEVEXIA.COM I INFO@CLUBEVEXIA.COM I 415.729.0046 I 100 SHORELINE HIGHWAY, MILL VALLEY HOURS OF OPERATION: MON - FRI 5 AM TO 8 PM, SAT & SUN 7 AM TO 7 PM
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MARINMAGAZINE.COM A PROUD MEMBER OF MAKE IT BETTER MEDIA GROUP
FOUNDER & CHIEF VISIONARY OFFICER MAKE IT BETTER MEDIA GROUP Susan B. Noyes
Editorial EDITOR IN CHIEF Lotus Abrams EDITOR AT LARGE Mimi Towle NATIONAL CONTENT DIRECTOR Brooke Geiger McDonald REGIONAL CONTENT DIRECTOR Jessica Gliddon SPACES EDITOR IN CHIEF Liz Logan SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER Christine Nikolich DIGITAL MARKETING ASSISTANT Jessica Dlugosz DINING, CALENDAR AND FEATURE WRITER Christina Mueller PHILANTHROPY EDITOR Donna Berry Glass CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Lisa Boquiren, Theresa Gonzalez, Laura Hine, Robert Kaufman, Pamela Dittmer McKuen, Mickey Nelson, Carrie Ruehlman, Anne-Christine Strugnell, Richard Wright
Art ART DIRECTOR Lisa Hilgers PRODUCTION DIRECTOR Alex French CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Thibault Cartier, Chris Gould, Robert Kaufman, Mikiko Kikuyama, Thomas Kuoh
Administration MAKE IT BETTER FOUNDATION EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Sharon Krone CONTROLLER Maeve Walsh FSCMixNegBKLand.pdf
TECHNICAL OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Jennifer Speaker 1
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Volume 18, Issue 4. Marin Magazine is published in Marin County by Marin Magazine Inc. owned by Make It Better Media LLC. All rights reserved. Copyright©2021. Reproduction of Marin Magazine content is prohibited without the expressed, written consent of Marin Magazine Inc. Unsolicited materials cannot be returned. Marin Magazine reserves the right to refuse to publish any advertisement deemed detrimental to the best interests of the community or that is in questionable taste. Marin Magazine is mailed monthly to homes and businesses in Marin County. Marin (USPS 024-898) is published monthly by Marin Magazine Inc., One Harbor Drive, Suite 208, Sausalito, CA 94965. Periodicals Postage Paid at Sausalito, CA, and at additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Marin Magazine, One Harbor Drive, Suite 208, Sausalito, CA 94965. The paper within this product is at least 70% from a Forest Stewardship Council®-certified forest (FSC-C002420). The balance may be recycled material and/or controlled wood.
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Architectural
Design Carpets Marin County’s Designer Flooring Showroom
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Interior Design by Andrea Pannes
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MARINMAGAZINE.COM A PROUD MEMBER OF MAKE IT BETTER MEDIA GROUP
Media PUBLISHER Leah Bronson | lbronson@makeitbetter.com MEDIA DIRECTOR Lesley Cesare | lcesare@makeitbetter.com SENIOR MEDIA CONSULTANT Sharon Coleman | scoleman@makeitbetter.com MEDIA CONSULTANT Jessica Hamilton | jhamilton@makeitbetter.com STRATEGIC EVENTS AND MEDIA CONSULTANT Jennifer Woolford | jwoolford@makeitbetter.com MARKETING COORDINATOR Domenica DiVietro | ddivietro@makeitbetter.com MEDIA ART MANAGER Alex French
Regional Sales Offices SONOMA COUNTY / SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA / TAHOE Lesley Cesare | lcesare@makeitbetter.com NAPA COUNTY Jessica Hamilton | jhamilton@makeitbetter.com NEW YORK Karen Couture, Couture Marketing | 917.821.4429 HAWAII Debbie Anderson, Destination Marketing | 808.739.2200
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View From the Team
Doing Our Part to Protect the Planet As Earth Day approaches, it’s a time not only to appreciate the beauty of our natural surroundings, but also to take a hard look at how humankind’s collective actions are negatively impacting the environment — and, to identify what we can do to slow the trajectory of our climate crisis. We’ve certainly got our work cut out for us: Temperatures are rising, causing ice caps in the Arctic to melt and sea levels to rise; our global food system is producing gargantuan quantities of greenhouse gas emissions; plastic is polluting our oceans; and massive deforestation is threatening biodiversity. The latest report from the United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) really drives this point home: Drastic weather extremes, including increased heat waves, droughts and floods, are already exceeding plants’ and animals’ tolerance thresholds and exposing millions of people to acute food and water insecurity. It's all more than enough to keep us up at night, but we can’t throw in the towel. We can all make a difference with the choices we make every day. Here are just a few of the things we can do to lessen our impact on the planet, according to Clean Water Action (cleanwateraction. org), a nonprofit committed to environmental protection: • Cut down on plastic waste • Reduce food waste • Choose a greener energy source • Reduce air and car travel • Use less water • Eat less meat Even the way we choose to spend our hardearned dollars can have an effect on the enviroment. Berkeley-based As You Sow recently
Susan Noyes
Leah Bronson
Lotus Abrams
Alex French
Lesley Cesare
Christina Mueller
released a report ranking 55 companies on Jessica Gliddon their progress in aligning emissions reductions with the 1.5-degree Paris Agreement goal. The report found a significant number of companies are making progress, but the vast majority are not — meaning it's even more critical to do your research so that your spending aligns with your values (a topic explored in detail in "Put Your Money on a Greener Future" on page 31). Here at Marin Magazine, we’re committed to protecting our environment, and that’s why we’ve devoted this issue to sustainable living. We also have some good news: We've made the switch to using more environmentally friendly paper to print each issue of Marin Magazine. At home, too, our staff members are making an effort to do better by our environment. Check out a few of the
ways we’re showing our love for the planet: Founder and Chief Visionary Officer Susan Noyes renovates her homes to highest green standards, incorporating as much solar power as possible. Publisher Leah Bronson has installed Nest thermostats in her house to conserve energy, and she does laundry only during hours recommended by OhmConnect, a free app that rewards users for saving energy. Editor in Chief Lotus Abrams replaced her water-hogging lawn in the front yard with drought-tolerant landscaping. Production Director Alex French ditched onetime plastic produce bags in favor of reusable, machine-washable bags. Media Director Lesley Cesare switched her old lightbulbs to energyconserving bulbs. Rather than jumping in her car, Regional Content Director Jessica Gliddon has been riding her e-bike around town to do quick errands. And Dining, Calendar and Feature Writer Christina Mueller installed solar on her roof to power her house and one car, and she's transitioning part of her garden to a sustainable, lowwater landscape that’s pollinator-friendly, too. We hope you’ll find that the environmentally focused articles in this issue — and the content on our websites, marinmagazine.com and better. net, and shared in our e-mail Better Letter newsletters — inspire you to make planet-friendly changes in your life, too, and to work with local nonprofits to help them amplify their impact. If you do, tag @marinmagazine and tell us about it. We'd love to celebrate your efforts!
Susan B. Noyes, Founder & Chief Visionary Officer Leah Bronson, Publisher Lotus Abrams, Editor in Chief
IF YOU LIKE US IN PRINT, YOU WILL LOVE US ONLINE! For the best of Marin Magazine delivered to your inbox, subscribe to the Better Letter at marinmagazine.com/subscribe. And follow us on social media: @marinmagazine @marinmagazine @marinmagazine marinmagazine marinmagazine marinmagazine 16 APRIL 2022 MARIN
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SAM FRANCIS 1923 - 1994 “Color is light on fire” Sam Francis
“COLOR IS LIGHT ON FIRE” Sam Francis
Robert Green Fine Arts, established 1969, exhibits primarily painterly, abstract expressive work by painters that thoroughly take advantage of the sensually evocative nature of color and form. 154 THROCKMORTON AVENUE, MILL VALLEY CA 94941 • PHONE 415 381 8776 • ROBERTGREENFINEARTS.COM GALLERY HOURS: FRIDAY - SUNDAY 11-5, MONDAY - THURSDAY BY APPOINTMENT
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In Marin /
ABOUT TOWN
Earth Heroes Celebrate our planet with a nod to the past.
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hen I moved to Marin in the 1990s, I had no idea that I was about to become part of a community deeply focused on caring for our planet. But what I soon learned was that our county has always been a bastion of passionate planet-forward thinkers. Over the years, my job here at Marin Magazine has introduced me to the eco-warriors who unpaved our way forward. By "unpaved," I mean the conservationists, including Marty Griffin, Carol Livermore, Elizabeth Terwilliger and many more who collectively laid the porous building blocks that have made Marin, Marin. Imagine 200 miles of freeways, housing developments on Bolinas Lagoon and Tomales Bay that would more than double the population and require a dam on the Russian and Eel rivers, a nuclear power plant in Bodega Bay — fortunately, that all seems ludicrous now, thanks to these dedicated environmentalists who stopped these plans in their tracks. If you don’t know their story, or if you’re new to Marin and want to know how you lucked into this magical county, track down a copy of the documentary Rebels With a Cause, which showcases how Marin’s ranchers, farmers, conservationists, politicians from both parties and volunteers, including Marty and Elizabeth, worked together through compromise and negotiation to create 14 National Seashores. Our bucolic two-lane highway from Stinson to the tip of Point Reyes didn’t just happen because of neglect; it was the result of a fight undertaken on a national level. Marty and his team fought off developers eyeing Marin as the next Los Angeles in the ’60s, but environmental preservation in the county was already going strong even 20 years earlier. As the opening of the Golden Gate
CONNECT! editorial@marinmagazine.com
Festival, take a moment to imagine these formidable ladies gathered on the patio that hasn't changed much since those days. Fast forward to 1982, when the first retail location of Smith & Hawken opened just around the corner from the Marin Garden Center. In the early days, this garden retailer glamorized (at least I thought) getting back to the soil. Gloves, a trowel and flower seeds from this shop were my go-to housewarming gift. I wasn’t alone in my devotion to the concept. The nation, it seemed, was also hungry for simplicity of soil and seed, and the company was purchased by Mimi Towle and her daughters Scotts in 2004. But as the story of suctake a moment mid-hike to be cess often goes, the new owners didn’t grateful for the open space and mountain trails of Marin. understand Smith & Hawken’s core values, and within 30 years it shut down, according to their Wikipedia page. The San Jose Bridge loomed, which would bring a steady Mercury News reported that Dave Smith and flow of cars into Marin, a few amazing ladies, Paul Hawken were relieved by the announceincluding Carol Livermore, who had a particument, stating that "Scotts couldn't have been lar distaste for “ugly roadside billboards,” got a worse corporate owner." Smith said he asked together at a Marin Garden Club meeting and formed a committee. The group included Sepha friends not to shop there after Scotts had purchased the company. Luckily, Hawken didn’t Evers, whose son Bill remembers the women hang his hat on early success: He has now constantly on the telephone, working relentauthored eight books, including The Ecology of lessly to create county and state parks. They Commerce, which was prominently displayed in raised seed money and pressured the county to our book shelf for years, and Hawken continues match their efforts to establish what we know to be a beacon of light for environmentalists. today as Samuel P. Taylor State Park, Tomales This month, as we celebrate Earth Day Bay, Stinson Beach and Angel Island, whose around the county, check in with your favorite single peak, Mount Caroline Livermore, has the local environmental organization to see how conservation maven’s name. Again, the fact they're working to keep Marin marvelous, and that picturesque Angel Island is open to anyone find out what you can do to help. And, if you’re is not just happenstance. taking part in an Earth Day event this year, Next time you find yourself passing by the please tag us @marinmagazine.com so we, in Bernard Maybeck-designed Marin Garden turn, can celebrate your efforts. Center in downtown Mill Valley, a venue often used for weddings and one of my favorite Mimi Towle, Editor at Large events, the opening for the Mill Valley Film
WANT MORE? Help support those protecting our natural environment. Visit foundation.makeitbetter.com to find out how to give back with maximum impact by utilizing our Give Time Things Support recommendations, underwriting a Better Giving Circle, hosting a Matching Grant and sharing your success through "Your Voices" and "Better Makers."
18 APRIL 2022 MARIN
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Meet The Makers Behind The Magic Explore world-class wine and exceptional cuisine all in the heart of California’s beautiful Sonoma County. Join top farmers, growers, makers, and chefs for a celebratory weekend you won’t soon forget.
May 20th-22nd, 2022 Enjoy culinary demos, wine seminars, luxe VIP benefits, and so much mo e.
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SUPPORTING FARM WORKERS
3/2/22 10:09 AM
10,000 Degrees Annual Gala A Hybrid Event Benefi ing 10,000 Degrees Students & Programs in All 7 Counties We Serve
SATURDAY, MAY 7, 2022 OneAmazingCommunity.org
10,000 Degrees mission is to achieve educational equity and to support students from low-income backgrounds to and through college to realize their full potential and positively impact their communities and the world.
CELEBRATING OUR AMAZING LEAD SPONSORS! ONE Amazing Community Co-Chairs Donna Seager Liberatore & Sharon Segal DOCTORATE SPONSORS
Jackson Family Wines, Inc.
Dodge & Cox
Medtronic
Loomis, Sayles & Company
Mary Prchal
Marin Community Foundation
Solano Dermatology Associates
Nikhil Sharma MASTER’S SPONSORS Suzanne Badenhoop & Guy Lampard Bank of Marin Graham & Talia Brandt Lynn Brinton & Dan Cohn Brouwer & Janachowski Susan & Mitchell Cohen County of Marin Herbert & Jane Dwight Micki Hambro
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Tracy Solomon Sonoma County Office of Education Marty & Marlene Stein Jennifer & Ryan Sweeney TPG Capital Mary & Michael Wolfe BACHELOR’S SPONSORS
Sandy Donnell & Justin Faggioli Judy & Jim Edgar
Kristin Swenson/ Brilliancy Julie & Michael Whitcomb
Deborah & Jonathan Goldman
To see full sponsor list, visit oneamazingcommunity.org
The Hartman-O’Brien Family
Sponsors as of 2/24/22
Vanessa Holton & Lloyd Aubry, Jr. Sheila & Thomas Larsen Dr. Denise M. Lucy & Dr. Françoise O. Lepage Mechanics Bank Claudia & Ethan Moeller Mark & Katey Mokelke
Bank of America
Sharon Segal
Eric Bindelglass & Gabrielle Tierney
Sonoma Raceway
William Smith & Ann Aylwin
Scan to RSVP
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In Marin / YOUR VOICES EMAIL “February, Friends, Fitness: The Three Fs for Success,” by Mimi Towle “I was featured in Marin Magazine a couple of years ago for offering one of the best streaming workouts in Marin, and guess what? I’m still live streaming five times per week! I was inspired to write you because in a recent issue, you asked: “Is there a program, sport or fitness studio that has helped push you in the right direction? Please let us know — we’d love to share your stories in our upcoming issues.” So, I wanted to share what my clients have been saying about me. Here are a few: ‘My energy has skyrocketed; I feel better than ever!’ ‘I can finally bike the hills of Marin because of your classes.’ ‘In July, I made a goal of a century ride, and it wasn’t until I began taking BodyByBinay classes daily that I became so strong that I was able to sail across the finish line!’ And then there are the athletes, like Patrick, who is a race car driver (and Marinite construction company owner). His goal: hanging from a flagpole (yes, you heard that right!) — and he credits accomplishing his fitness and nutrition goals to me.” — Binay Curtis, NTP, Nutritional Therapy Practitioner
Live retirement on your own terms Are you on track? If you’re planning for retirement, one of the first steps is organizing your finances so you can do all the things you’ve dreamed about. From creating retirement income, to managing your investments and protecting what you’ve earned, I can help guide you toward a successful and secure retirement. Strengthening your financial securitySM Let’s talk—contact me today.
SOCIAL MEDIA “When the Kids Are Not Alright,” by Donna Berry Glass “‘As coaches it should be more than just teaching our athletes the surface of the sport:’ A quote from the incredible article. Article linked in bio; check it out. ” — @winningmindset.coachjen, via Instagram “Micro Weddings, Macro Memories,” by Lotus Abrams “Finally got a hold of some magazines and I’m not going to lie — it feels pretty good to see your work featured in Marin Magazine!” — @weddengboss, via Instagram
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editorial@marinmagazine
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Connect With Us
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TOP GRAM Berkeley-based photographer JESSE CORTES finds inspiration in taking photos of the Bay Area’s
MARRIAGE, MURDER & BETRAYAL BOOK
beautiful landscapes. “I love how landscape photography creates a greater connection to our home,” he says. “On the night I took this photo, I came to Mt. Tam to hike and photograph the sunset, but the sunset fizzled out. So I worked on a shot I’ve been wanting to get for some time: I found shelter from the howling wind on a quiet hillside and captured tail lights winding their way past Trojan Point with the lights of the city in the background.” To see more of Cortes’ amazing shots, follow him on Instagram @jessecortesphotography. Want to see your photo in print? Tag us @marinmagazine with your best shot.
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APRIL 2022
CAN’T MISS VIRTUAL EVENTS! How to Lead a Sustainable Lifestyle From the food you consume to the car you drive, everything you do has an effect on the environment. An esteemed panel will join the Make It Better Media virtual stage for a discussion about what it means to go green and will share tips on how to live sustainably. We will be joined by Nate Kipnis of Kipnis Architecture + Planning, Pat Townsley of Creekside Pizza and Taproom, environmental justice advocate and attorney Sara Aminzadeh and Dawn Agnew of Eco Terreno Wines & Vineyards.
Date: April 14, 2022 Register now at marinmagazine.com/virtual-events.
What’s on Replay Family Law and Finance Learn from expert David A. Handler of Kirkland & Ellis, who took to the virtual stage to discuss essential topics such as succession and estate planning.
The Art of Living Outdoors SPACES brings together a panel of national design leaders, including Jesse Harrison of Harrison Design, to explore how outdoor living has changed and what's on the horizon.
Going Green: Building Resilience by Living Sustainably Learn from a diverse panel of sustainability experts the unique ways they are working to heal the planet with sustainable architecture, green investments, conservation and more. Panelists included Nathan Kipnis, founder and principal architect for Kipnis Architecture and Planning, and Patrick Costello, founder, president and CEO of Green River Financial Services.
Watch all of our virtual events on demand at better.net / mibtv.
Reach Your Fitness Goals Three Mill Valley fitness experts shared their best advice for getting fit and staying healthy in a recent Make It Better Media Group virtual event. BY CARRIE RUEHLMAN
Make It Better Media Group National Digital Content Director Brooke McDonald recently spoke with three health and fitness experts from Mill Valley who shared their tips for sustaining a workout regimen and a healthy mindset long after January has come and gone. Warren Gendel is one of those experts. Gendel likes to say he builds gyms, builds bodies and builds good habits. He has worked in the health and fitness industry for more than 30 years and pioneered one of the fastest growing healthy lifestyle centers for kids. He is also cofounder and CEO of the new Club Evexia. Brothers Jake and JT Peterson are co-owners of the popular cardio strength training gym Studio 30 and mentors for anyone interested in improving their health. There's no magic pill that will get you in shape, but follow these tips that Gendel, Jake and JT shared during our wellness panel in January, and you’ll be well on your way to reaching your fitness goals.
1. Start Your Day on a Positive Note “For me, it’s really about how you start the morning every day,” Gendel says. He recommends waking up 15 minutes earlier to meditate, do yoga or just take time to relax so you don’t start your day frazzled and stressed. Gradually moving your wakeup time even earlier gives you more time to incorporate a workout or a walk, creating a healthy habit that is good for your body and your mind. 2. Try a Dopamine Detox Jake recommends minimizing outside stimulants like caffeine, alcohol, sugar and screens. “This helps fight against fatigue and dehydration by restoring your body to its natural state of energy,” he says. Doing so can also help mitigate the energy ups and downs that happen throughout the day. 3. Get Organized What does being organized have to do with being healthy? “Scheduling your workouts, and planning what you’re going to do for your workout is important because it frees up mental space, helps avoid frustration and increases your willpower,” JT says. “Once you complete a workout and you feel accomplished, you carry that energy with you throughout your entire day.” 4. Try a Small Group Workout As more people start to get comfortable heading back into the gym post-pandemic, working out in a group setting gives you an opportunity to reconnect with people in your community and can help motivate you to stick with a fitness regimen. Working out in a group is fun, and
the support you get from others can be vital to your success. “One of our mottos is, you can’t high-five yourself,” Jake says. 5. Eat Small, Nutrient-Dense Snacks Jake advises his clients to eat a small, nutrient-dense snack, like a handful of nuts or an apple, every two to three hours and especially before a workout. “This helps keep your metabolism active, your insulin levels steady and ensures your body is using the food as energy,” he says, adding a reminder not to eat more calories than your body can burn off. 6. Rest Your Fork During Meals Gendel’s great tip for portion control is to try putting your fork down 26 times during dinner. “You’ll be able to eat a lot less but feel satisfied,” he says. “Most people eat really quickly, and by the time your mind registers you’re full, you’ve eaten more calories than your body needs.” 7. Don’t Be Too Hard on Yourself “Keep it simple and stay committed to who you are and to your goals,” Jake says. He advises keeping an inspirational photo on your refrigerator to inspire you when you get down or feel unmotivated. “Take care of yourself, nourish your body and know that achieving health and wellness is a process for everyone, even health professionals.” Carrie Ruehlman is a former magazine editor and communications professional turned freelance writer and editor. In her spare time, she volunteers for her children's school and serves on the board of The Tiny Miracles Foundation.
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In Marin / NEW IN TOWN
So Many Stars
A Marin dad drops a restaurant in San Francisco’s Cow Hollow neighborhood; the Single Thread team opens a veggie restaurant in Healdsburg; the Madrona reopens for overnight guests; Fort Point Beer Co. reopens its outpost in the Mission neighborhood of San Francisco; and more. BY CHRISTINA MUELLER
Little Saint Chef Kyle and Katina Connaughton and the team behind three-Michelin star Single Thread in Healdsburg are opening a plant-centric venture in the former SHED space in town in mid-April. The menu will highlight the produce coming from the team’s new 24-acre farm in dishes as varied as cultured cashew ricotta with tomato tapenade; grilled center-cut squash with vadouvan, coconut yogurt and sumac; and Dry Creek peaches with cucumbers and wild fennel. “We envision Little Saint as another way to express our culinary creativity in a more accessible manner and as another avenue to expand our agricultural footprint and biodiversity presence in Sonoma County,” chef Connaughton says. In addition to the full-service restaurant, the 10,000 square-foot building will host a café, marketplace and wine store and will act as a community gathering space with plans to host film screenings, live music and more. “We strive to be a ‘saintly’ destination by offering conscientious and cruelty-free goods and showcasing works and performances by diverse artists who are also committed to doing good while having fun,” says programming director Jenny Hess. 25 North St, Healdsburg; 707.395.0031; littlesainthealdsburg.com
EAT & DRINK Camino Alto Larkspur resident and former banker Josh Copeland wanted a place that would give him the opportunity to create something meaningful — he found it in San Francisco’s Cow Hollow neighborhood in the former Pan e Vino space. His neighborhood restaurant serves a menu free from processed oils, low in dairy and sugar, and entirely
gluten-free, and the tight wine list focuses on natural wines. 1715 Union St, San Francisco; 415.441.2111; caminoaltosf.com Fort Point Beer Co. Though Mill Valley Beerworks is no more, the team behind Fort Point Beer Co. is sallying forth, brewing beer in San Francisco’s Presidio and reopening some pandemic-shuttered locations. Open for
six months in San Francisco’s Mission District before Covid-19 closed the doors, the Valencia Street location once again welcomed guests in February. The taps are evenly split between Fort Point’s pilsners, IPAs and session beers and guest taps like Double Guava Boat from Temescal Brewing, perfect for pairing with a plate of deviled eggs or a pork chop sandwich that a Swiss citizen
WANT MORE? Discover your new favorite foodie hangout, shopping or beauty destination. Find out about all the latest openings at marinmagazine.com/new-in-town.
would swoon over. 742 Valencia St, San Francisco; 415.361.7001; fortpointbeer.com Starbird Chicken Corte Madera Town Center welcomed the 10 th Bay Area location of this chicken-centric fastcasual eatery known for its crispy tenders and wings (the Classic and Nashville Hot are gluten-free), handchopped salads and sandwiches. The brand’s chicken is never raised with antibiotics, and nine homemade sauces, like honey-chipotle barbecue and wasabi
Fort Point Beer Co.
aioli, are available. There are plant-based tenders, too, but don’t miss the chicken and churros combo — it’s served with a side of maple syrup. 205 Corte Madera Town Center, Corte Madera; 415.758.4118; starbirdchicken.com
HOTELS The Madrona San Francisco designer Jay Jeffers revamped the gabled former private residence first built in 1881 in Healdsburg with historic showpieces to modernize the interiors while preserving the building’s distinctive
EMMA K MORRIS (LITTLE SAINT); SARAH CHOREY (FORT POINT VALENCIA)
Little Saint
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The Madrona
ceilings, bay windows, original fireplaces and large balconies. The onsite restaurant, helmed by chef Jesse Mallgren who earned 13 consecutive Michelin stars for his work here before the reconstruction, will feature dishes sourced from the onsite garden and local purveyors, including chicken paillard infused with Southeast Asian flavors; steak tartare with goma dare, quail egg and fresh wasabi; and local anchovies cured in lemon and fennel pollen. 1001 Westside Rd, Healdsburg; 707.395.6700; themadronahotel.com
EMMA K MORRIS (LITTLE SAINT); SARAH CHOREY (FORT POINT VALENCIA)
SHOP Conifer Longtime Marin resident and Apparel Arts graduate Amy Mautz sought an outlet where her love for design, textiles, art and craft could find a home, opening a shop in Fairfax with designer Marion McKee in the spring of 2021. One part
collective showcase for their designs, the shop also supports other emerging designers in its collection of women’s loungewear, dresses, bags, shoes, skincare and more. 31 Bolinas Rd, Fairfax; 415.524.8630; conifershop.com Avocado Green Experience Center A certified B Corporation with organic products produced in their facilities in Los Angeles, Avocado opened a lifestyle experience center in Corte Madera in February. Mattresses are at the heart of this business that also includes bedding, furniture, bath essentials, clean beauty and apparel. The space will also feature an organic café, yoga classes, meditation, a guest speaker program and other opportunities to connect with the Marin community. 1530 Redwood Hwy at The Village at Corte Madera; 657.385.8849; avocadogreenmattress.com
It’s the freedom to move without pain. Is neck, back, shoulder, knee or hip pain keeping you from the activities you love? The team of orthopedic specialists at Novato Community Hospital can help resolve your pain and get you back in motion. Our award-winning program includes physical therapy, nonsurgical procedures, leading-edge pain management, and minimally invasive and robotic surgical treatments. Connect with a doctor and get your questions answered at one of our free upcoming orthopedic webinars. It’s a thousand things, big and small. Find out more at sutterhealth.org/marin-webinars.
Christina Mueller has been in food media for over 10 years. Her work has appeared in many print and online publications including Sunset magazine, Edible Communities and Eater, among others.
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In Marin
CE L E B R AT I N G T H E PEO PL E , PL ACE S A N D C AU S E S O F T H I S U N I Q U E CO U N T Y
Let’s Beautify Our Beaches Join a local cleanup event to preserve and protect Marin’s stunning coastlines.
ALEXANDER SIEGEL/SURFRIDER
BY RICHARD WRIGHT
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In Marin / CURRENTS
Join a Beach Cleanup Anyone who’s spent time enjoying the natural world has most likely heard the directive, “Leave it better than you found it.” Sage advice — especially when it comes to our beaches — where a lot of trash ends up. “Every part of the shoreline is littered with plastic bags, straws, takeout containers and water bottles,” says Sejal Choksi-Chugh, executive director of BayKeeper, an organization dedicated to investigating pollution, patrolling the coastline and identifying polluters since 1989. On Earth Day and beyond, there are plenty of opportunities to get involved in local beach cleanups, and the benefits are far-reaching. “When you clean up your neighborhood parks and beaches, you’re protecting the bay’s fish and birds from trash, and you’re helping to protect the health of our ocean, too,” Choksi-Chugh says. So as the weather warms, get together with friends, family and local organizations to help keep Marin beaches pristine. Here are a few to join.
BayKeeper No need to wait for a scheduled beach cleanup. With BayKeeper, you can register as a volunteer and then get friends, family and concerned residents to pitch in for a cleanup day. Record trash picked up on their app to help them further understand environmental impact. baykeeper.org/content/volunteer
LOVEMARIN Marin photographer and owner of the LOVEMARIN retail store in Sausalito Jessica Norelli Cox plans regular beach cleanup days with her three children and hopes to get other families involved. “When kids clean a beach it not only gets them thinking about the negative impacts of trash, plastics and chemicals on the Surfrider Foundation beach cleanup
LOVEMARIN
health of our land, birds, animals and marine life, but it also influences the way they view the impact we can make in our schools, neighborhoods and the greater community,” Cox says. Visit the shop’s website to learn about upcoming cleanup meetups, as well as other community beautification events. love-marin. com/get-involved Surfrider Foundation An illustrious and longstanding force in the fight for healthy oceans and shorelines, Surfrider Foundation hosts Marin beach cleanups on Saturdays and Sundays every five or six weeks. marin.surfrider.org 101 Surf Sports This San Rafael shop holds two annual events to clean up the San Rafael Creek that leads out to the bay: an Earth Day event on April 21 and another on National Coastal Cleanup Day, Sept. 18. “We also support schools and companies by providing free or subsidized rental gear for those to want to take part in the cleanup but don’t have their own gear,” says partner David Wells. 101surfsports.com
WANT MORE? Whether it’s helping the environment or the vulnerable in our community, find more ways to make a difference at marinmagazine.com/volunteer.
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the LOOK P RO M OTI O N
TOP TIPS FOR TILE DESIGN After designing thousands of tile and stone projects in her 27-year career, Alissandre Haas opened Tile Fever (tilefever.com) in her hometown of Sausalito in 2020, a boutique studio showcasing artisan tile and natural stone. “The larger tile companies continue to import mass-produced, machine-style tile in overly predictable colors and sizes,” Haas says. “But I see a new movement in demand for handmade artisan tile and natural stone with texture and body — this is where Tile Fever thrives.” Here, Haas shares four top tile design trends and tips. EMBRACE THE UNEXPECTED Get creative with patterns, shapes and natural stone texture. “Materials with natural variation, texture and body are replacing the typical expected, ‘safe’ porcelain tile,” Haas says. TAKE INSPIRATION FROM NATURE “We’re noticing clients are wanting to choose a color palette that matches our beautiful Marin landscape,” Haas says. “Green is trending this year. It makes us feel close to nature.” MAKE A STATEMENT ON A BUDGET When cost seems like an obstacle, find a creative design solution that still makes an impact. “If you find a tile you love that is out of your budget, find a way to use it in a smaller, more visible place in the room,” Haas suggests.
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USE TILE IN NEW WAYS We usually think of using tile in bathrooms and kitchens, but there are so many other areas of the home where it can provide an eye-catching accent. “The entry or mudroom area is a great place to add a pop of interest with a tile pattern like a checkerboard or with natural stone cut into a shape,” Haas explains. Or, use tile to create a striking fireplace surround. LOTUS ABRAMS
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ICE POPPY, making hand crafted accessories in Mill Valley since 2013. 100% cotton yoga Mat Strap. Simply roll up your mat after use and secure easily with Velcro. Adjusts to different mat thickness. Available in different colors. See online shop for more options. ICE POPPY
WANT MORE? Get all the design ideas you need at marinmagazine.com/decor-design.
icepoppy@yahoo.com, 415.608.1004, icepoppy.com
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A Force for Nature Marin County-based Sara Aminzadeh is fighting to save the environment.
Social-Impact Eating Oakland-based nonprofit Community Kitchens, a collective of chefs and restaurateurs, recently launched a new food-justice program called Dining for Justice to ensure no one goes hungry in the community. Launched in January, it’s the first-of-its-kind
Adiam Tsegaye
to secure $30 million Aminzadeh with the for local coastal plan“Waterkeepers,” a ning and a statewide group of grassroots environmentalists, sea level rise action in 2018 plan that will allow us to continue to enjoy our coast for years to come.” While Aminzadeh has always been optimistic that she could tackle climate change through her work, her resolve was strengthened in 2020 by the wildfires that burned more than 4 million acres across California. She recalls having to drive her infant son to a place where he could breathe air that was cleaner and less hazardous for his developing lungs. “The wildfire smoke was so thick that the sky was orange and dark all day,” she says. “It broke my heart.” Keeping pace with the scale and speed of wildfires like the one in 2020 is one of the biggest challenges the California Coastal Commission faces in protecting the environment, but there are also rising sea levels, flooding, erosion and other climate change threats that must be addressed. “Everyone must ask their local, state and federal representative, neighbor, employer and family member what they’re doing to act on climate change, and how they can help,” Aminzadeh says. “We need everyone working together to transform our culture and decarbonize our economy before we hit a point of no return.” CARRIE RUEHLMAN WANT MORE? Environmental leaders are changing our world for the better. Here’s the ones you should know: marinmagazine.com/eco-warriors.
program that adds a 1% surcharge on diners’ bills at participating restaurants, with 100% of the proceeds used to fund the ingredients, preparation and labor to serve thousands of hot meals a month to the city’s unhoused community. So far, more than 30 Oakland restaurants are participating in the program, including
A Cote, Agave Uptown, Calavera, Everett & Jones BBQ, Hopscotch Restaurant & Bar and Mela Bistro. “We believe this visionary approach will be a blueprint for other communities to build a sustainable food justice model,” says Maria Alderete, owner of Luka’s Taproom and Lounge in Oakland and cofounder of Community Kitchens. “This is a food revolution, and it will be delicious!” LOTUS ABRAMS
WANT MORE? Food is just one powerful tool to help others. Find out about others in our community giving back at marinmagazine.com/philanthropy.
DANIEL MÅNSSON (WATERKEEPERS)
If ever there was a cause worth fighting for, it’s the one to protect the planet. In honor of Earth Day on April 22, we’re celebrating eco-warriors who are making an impact in the nonprofit environmental world. Whether they’re saving wildlife from wildfires or inner cities from the ravages of industrial pollution, these heroes mobilize every day to build a safer, cleaner, healthier world. Marin County-based environmental justice advocate and attorney Sara Aminzadeh is one such eco-warrior, whose passion and dedication to saving the environment should inspire us all. Aminzadeh has dedicated her entire adult life to addressing environmental threats. She first became determined to tackle climate change as a teenager living in Houston, where the air quality was often unhealthy. Over the last 20 years, she has helped implement many important environmental Sara Aminzadeh reforms through her work with the U.S. Water Alliance, the California Coastkeeper Alliance and the Pisces Foundation. In 2017, she was the youngest person ever appointed to the California Coastal Commission, where she has been an outspoken progressive voice; she was recently reappointed to serve another four years by state Senate leader Toni Atkins. And, she’s currently running for the State Assembly as a climate candidate, meaning that addressing climate change is her top priority. Aminzadeh, who has been called “a force of and for nature,” says her most important work on the commission has been to help the agency and state prepare for rising sea levels. “I saw that communities, homeowners and local governments were struggling to deal with flooding and unsafe conditions and with maintaining access to shorelines parks, especially in underserved communities,” she says. “I spearheaded a team
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Put Your Money on a Greener Future Follow these six no-cost guidelines to make sure your money is supporting your values.
MALERAOPASO/ISTOCK
If you care about the environment, chances are you’re bombarded by urgent pleas for money from political and environmental organizations. Donations aren’t the only way you can make a difference with your dollars, however. Here are six no-cost ways you can support the causes that matter to you by making more informed choices about what you buy, who you buy from, where you bank, what you invest in, how you use energy at home and how you leave a legacy. 1 What you buy. With every purchase you make — from chocolate to cleaning supplies — you can choose to reward ethical companies. Look up each product category in Better World Shopper (betterworldshopper.org) to see which manufacturers score highest on support for the environment and other important causes. Get the information for free from the website, or support their work by buying their pocket-sized guide for just $15. 2 Who you buy from. Many large retailers make donations to political parties. You can get all the details from the Open Secrets website (opensecrets.org), or sidestep the political games altogether by buying from small, local businesses. These businesses support our community because they donate 250% more than large businesses to community causes, and they generate $68 of local economic return for every $100 spent with them. Another tip: Use cash or a debit card to save small businesses from having to pay credit card fees. 3 Where you bank. Your bank or credit card company may be using your money to make loans to fossil fuel and other environmentally damaging projects. Check out the Rainforest Action Network Banking on Climate Chaos 2021 Fossil Fuel Finance Report (ran.org/publications) to see what your money
is financing. Consider switching to a bank with a sustainability commitment, your local credit union or a black-owned bank. 4 What you invest in. “Green” investments are better for the planet and often outperform more traditional equivalents. Research stock and bond funds to get a closer look at what you’re really buying into. And, vote your shares! Voting shareholders have tremendous influence — just look at what happened in May of 2021 at Exxon’s board meeting. 5 How you save energy. Invest in saving energy at home and you can get better returns than the stock market. Calculate your payback period for solar panels, insulate your home, swap out CFL or incandescent light bulbs for LEDs, and get rebates for replacing gas appliances with electric ones. And, if you own a car, consider switching to an all-electric vehicle (EV). It can dramatically reduce your carbon emissions and deliver considerable savings over the life of the car. 6 How you leave a legacy. Express your generosity without impacting your lifestyle by leaving money to a nonprofit. You don’t need to make out a will: Just name the nonprofit a beneficiary of your life insurance or retirement plan (such as an IRA or 401K). You can change your beneficiary designation by filling out a form, and you can do that as frequently as you like. Nonprofits can get the full, untaxed amount of your retirement accounts or appreciated stock, so if you can, give those assets to nonprofits and give other assets to individuals. If you’re over 60 and have at least $10,000 to give, you might consider donating that money to your favorite nonprofit in exchange for annual payments for the rest of your life. ANNE-CHRISTINE STRUGNELL
Anne-Christine Strugnell is a Marin County-based writer whose work has appeared in MORE Magazine, Self, the Christian Science Monitor and the Cup of Comfort series. In 2019, awareness of the climate crisis drove her to focus on climate awareness work with Resilient Neighborhoods, Environmental Forum of Marin and the Climate Reality Project. WANT MORE? Learn about how to invest responsibly at marinmagazine.com/socially-responsible-investing.
REDUCE TEXTILE WASTE “Fast fashion” makes it easy — and affordable — to keep up with the latest style trends, but it also means a proliferation of textiles end up in the waste stream. One of the worst ramifications: Plastic microfibers from synthetic fabrics contaminate our oceans, harming marine ecosystems. According to the 2014 California Solid Waste Characterization Study, 5.5% of what Marin County residents dispose of each year is categorized as textiles. And typically, clothing isn’t accepted in curbside recycling containers. So, how should you keep unwanted clothing out of landfill? Follow these tips from Zero Waste Marin (zerowastemarin. org), which aims to eliminate waste in Marin County by encouraging residents and businesses to prioritize sustainable lifestyles. SELL clothing in good condition that you no longer need at a local consignment store. Options in Marin County include The RealReal (therealreal.com/marin), Diamonds in the Rough (diamonds-in-the-rough-consignment-shop.business.site) and Knimble (knimble.com), along with Play It Again Kids (playitagainkids.com) for children’s clothing. DONATE unwanted clothing to a local charitable organization such as Hospice Hodgepodge (bythebayhealth.org), Bloom Marin (bloommarin.org), Salvation Army (satruck.org), Goodwill Thrift Stores (sfgoodwill.org) or the Marin Humane Thrift Store (marinhumane.org). You can also drop off clothing you don’t need any more at one of the many Us Again (usagain.com) or Recycle for Change (recycleforchange.org) bins in the county, many of which are located in malls such as the Village at Corte Madera and the Northgate mall in San Rafael. GIVE clothing you don’t need anymore away for free on Nextdoor, Facebook Marketplace or a local “Buy Nothing” group on Facebook. LOTUS ABRAMS
WANT MORE? Wondering how to declutter? For ideas on how to go through your stuff and even more ideas on getting rid of it, visit marinmagazine.com/home-organization.
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In Marin / SHOP LOCAL
A SUSTAINABLE LIFESTYLE These environmentally friendly product picks are gentle on the planet. BY LOTUS ABRAMS
Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil; $43 McEvoy Ranch, Petaluma; mcevoyranch.com A perennial best-seller, the Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil is estate-produced from the ranch’s 57 acres of organic olive orchards, which are watered using only drip irrigation from rain-fed, surface run-off ponds.
Biodynamic Ginger Tea; $15 The Republic of Tea, Larkspur; republicoftea.com A palate-cleanser that also soothes the digestive system, this tea is made from 100% Biodynamic ginger grown by a collective of four certifiedBiodynamic farms in central Sri Lanka that are committed to biodiversity.
The Get Out x CCH 12-ounce Mug; $15 Crow Canyon Home, San Anselmo; crowcanyonhome.com Ditch plastic serve-ware and step up your picnic or cookout game with this colorful new enamelware collection, a collaboration between husband-and-wife duo Mike and Kelsey Sheofsky and Crow Canyon Home.
Modal Pajama Tank and Pant; $48 (tank), $75 (pant) Hass by Avocado Green Brands, Corte Madera; avocadogreenmattress.com These ultrasoft PJs are made using Lenzing-certified modal, a biodegradable and compostable cellulose-based textile produced through a sustainable process that recycles expended water and 99% of the nontoxic solvent used during manufacturing.
Tinted Organic Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 30; $20 Olita, San Rafael; olitashop.com Shield skin from harmful UVA/UVB rays with this certified-organic, reef-safe, zinc oxide-based sunscreen. Another eco-friendly bonus: Olita donates 10% of all sales to nonprofit Coral Reef Alliance.
Adele Coverlet; from $517 Bella Notte, Novato; bellanottelinens.com Designed, cut, sewn and dyed in Novato, this 100% organic cotton, single-layer, damask-weave coverlet is embellished with a subtle pattern and silk-velvet edge.
Couvre-Plat Round Medium; $26 Àplat, San Francisco; aplat.com Manufactured in San Francisco from 100%-organic, food-safe cotton canvas, this washable, reusable cover (also sold at Heath Ceramics in Sausalito) fits bowls up to 10 inches in diameter. Bye-bye plastic wrap!
WANT MORE? Get more sustainable and stylish local finds at marinmagazine.com/shop-local.
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AUTHOR TALK / In Marin
A Poet of Unity
A Puerto Rican poet writing in both English and Spanish, Raquel Salas Rivera is a rising star. His latest poetry collection explores the past and future of his homeland. BY JESSICA GLIDDON AND PAULA FARMER
Raquel Salas Rivera’s sixth poetry collection, antes que isla es volcan/before island is volcano, looks to the future of Puerto Rico with love, rage, beauty and hope, and promises to cement his status as one of the most important poets working today. In sharp, crystalline verses, written in both Spanish and English, this collection daringly imagines a decolonial Puerto Rico. Salas Rivera unfurls a series of poems that build in intensity: One imagines a multiverse of possibilities for Puerto Rico’s fate; in another the poet demands his right to a future and its immediate distribution. A poet, translator and editor, Salas Rivera is a National Book Award-nominated, Lambda Award-winning poet, and was named the 2018–19 Poet Laureate of Philadelphia.
TAMARA MAZ PHOTOGRAPHY
How did you become a poet — what drove you to write? Raquel Salas Rivera (RSR): My grandfather, Sotero Rivera Avilés, was a poet from the Guajana generation and my mother, Yolanda Rivera Castillo, is a poet as well. When I was 12, I read Langston Hughes for the first time, and that was when I knew I wanted to be a poet. I wasn’t drawn to it like a fish on a line, rather it hit me, it consumed me and changed me before I knew what was happening. Why do you write poetry in two languages? RSR: I don’t think of it as that. I write in Spanish, and then I translate it into English. This may seem like a superficial distinction, but it is politically significant, especially for a Puerto Rican writer living on the archipelago, where most people speak Spanish. The translations open up new meanings and allow a respectful and mindful engagement while protecting that which does not want to be translated.
Maldonado, all of whom were similarly dreaming of creating the same archival project. Arte Publico Press and the U.S. Latino Digital Humanities team joined forces with us. Thanks to the Mellon Foundation, we have been able to design, forge and give shape to this ambitious project. I am also part of the poetry collective En Compaña, and I teach courses at the University of Puerto Rico. Most days I am thinking of poetry, reading poetry and dedicated to the poetry of others. See Salas Rivera at Book Passage online April 7 at 5:30 p.m.
Raquel Salas Rivera
You’ve been an advocate for migrants, the LGBTQ community and Puerto Ricans in general. What role does art have in activism for you? RSR: I have been an activist at different moments in my life, but I do feel it is a different kind of work. That doesn’t mean poetry can’t and doesn’t impact people, but rather that it does so in ways that may not be as immediately mappable, and that’s OK. There are people for whom poetry is a kind of activism. For others, activism is a kind of poetry. For me, poetry is my life, my love, my passion, and I also happen to want a world without oppression, without colonialism, where Puerto Rico is free, where trans people are free, where we can live and write under different conditions. Tell us about your other work, like El proyecto de la literatura puertorriqueña/The Puerto Rican Literature Project, a free educational digital portal for Puerto Rican literature. RSR: This is something I had been dreaming of doing for most of my life. Then I met Claire Jiménez, Enrique Oliveras and Ricardo
More Great New Reads City on Fire by Don Winslow From the best-selling author of the Cartel trilogy comes the first novel in an epic new triad. Two criminal empires control all of New England, until a modern-day Helen of Troy comes between the Irish and the Italians, launching a war that sets a city on fire. Exploring loyalty, betrayal and honor, it’s like a contemporary Iliad. See Winslow at Book Passage in Corte Madera April 27 at 6:00 p.m.
I Wore This Dress Today for You, Mom by Kim Dower This poetry book is an anthology on being a mother as well as a daughter, from teenaged messiness to caring for one’s mother suffering from dementia. These poems are heartbreaking, funny, surprising and touching, and explore the quirky, unexpected and bittersweet moments mothers and daughters share. See Dower at Book Passage in Corte Madera April 30 at 1:00 p.m. Reviews by Paula Farmer of Book Passage WANT MORE? Discover more writers advocating for important issues at marinmagazine.com/books.
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In Marin / CONVERSATION
Selling Sunshine
Fairfax-based solar industry expert Ted Walsh reflects on his experiences promoting renewable energy in Marin County and beyond during his 15-plus year career, and explains why now is the best time to go solar. BY MICKEY NELSON
W
hen Ted Walsh is asked what he does for a living, he modestly replies, ‘I sell sunshine.’ When pressed further, he eventually says that he’s in the solar industry, which doesn’t even begin to hint at the impact he’s made in the field in Marin County and beyond. Walsh has been one of the driving forces in the solar industry for nearly two decades and is partner and vice president of sales of Novatobased SolarCraft, the largest locally based solar provider in Marin, Sonoma and Napa counties. Before joining SolarCraft in 2017, Walsh led two of the nation’s biggest solar companies and has worked with and for many of the largest companies, including Apple, eBay and Ikea, and solar manufactures in the world. Quietly leading by example, Walsh lives in an eco-friendly, solar-powered house in Fairfax with his wife and two school-aged children, whose middle names are (appropriately) Sunshine and Wind. Read on to learn how Walsh’s dedication to solar has helped keep Marin at the forefront of renewable energy and evolve the industry as a whole from its grassroots beginning to one that now employs more people in the U.S. than the fossil fuel power-generating industry. Mickey Nelson (MN): What are your favorite things about living in Marin? Ted Walsh (TW): The people and the natural beauty are my favorite parts of Marin. I like that some of the most intelligent, creative and competitive people in the world live here, doing everything from farming to high tech to the arts to renewable energy. And of course, I love the California sunshine.
MN: Over the course of your career, you’ve personally helped celebrities, musicians, U.S. congressmen and globally recognized brands go solar. Do you prefer to work with businesses or homeowners? TW: I’m still inspired by the homeowners and organizations that chose to invest in renewable energy, and grateful to be involved. Helping Ted Walsh
become the first solar-powered multiplex movie theater in the world. Attending the “green carpet event” for the release of the Disney’s movie Earth in my hometown was very cool. Helping to develop and deliver the first floating solar systems in the country (“floato-voltaics”) for wineries in Sonoma and Napa was exciting, and those projects helped lead to massive floating solar projects all over the world. The first solar company I joined, San Rafael-based SPG Solar, also helped Kentfield become the first 100% solar-powered school district in the country with systems at Bacich Elementary School and Kent Middle School. There are too many favorites to list, but most people don’t realize how influential Marin and the North Bay communities were in advancing the clean energy industry. MN: Is your primary motivation to fight climate change? TW: I’ve never liked that term, ‘climate change.’ It’s an oversimplification of what we’re doing to the planet. I know The Guardian and other media outlets are transitioning to the term ‘climate crisis’ or ‘climate emergency,’ but whatever it is, it’s not just about the climate.
large companies, schools and government agencies go solar is important because of the scale of those projects, and the attention inspires others to go solar. But I also have a special admiration for the many great families in Marin that I’ve had the privilege to help go solar and the many local businesses that really put their money behind their mission statements by being more environmentally responsible. I helped the Fairfax Six Theater
MN: You managed to say that without sounding angry. TW: It’s a reality. It’s frustrating to dwell on it, but anger doesn’t help. Anger only motivates me for very short periods. I think optimism is what keeps people engaged for the long term. We’re making progress — renewable energy, electric vehicles, sustainable buildings and much more. Working in the solar industry now feels like
WANT MORE? Learn about more local leaders working to make Marin’s energy environmentally friendly at marinmagazine.com/clean-energy.
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being a key part of a much larger shift in the economy than when I first started — it’s all starting to connect. MN: In 2007, you helped Marin gain national recognition for clean energy adoption by executing the GoSolarMarin program. Why was that important? TW: At the time, GoSolarMarin was the largest community purchase of solar in the country — well over 100 homeowners went solar together. It was a public-private partnership. Homeowners throughout Marin organized to negotiate for the best price and value for solar, and I led the solar industry side, helping our team execute their vision, creating best pricing and custom systems for every home and ultimately installing the systems. It was an exciting project, and I was proud that Marin took such an important and early leadership position in renewable energy. MN: In 2014, your work in solar was recognized by the Obama administration. Can you tell us about that? TW: My team had developed some solar projects for Taylor Farms and other leading agricultural firms in California. It was surreal to get a call from the White House, and it was great to help my clients receive the recognition they deserved. MN: Are there any solar projects that you wish you’d been able to do? TW: I proposed to put solar on the White House during the Obama administration. I didn’t win that one, but it was probably for the best. I was once on a roof down the street from the White House, and I asked a facility manager about a large container-like structure on the roof. Turns out
Ted Walsh and crew at Gary Farrell Captionin Sebastopol Winery
it was a guided missile launcher. I backed up slowly and “no bid” that one. MN: Is it now or never to go solar in Marin? TW: Never say never — people should go solar, as soon as they can, while they can. The utilities and fossil fuel industry have more power and money than anyone and a huge financial interest to keep control of how we use power. So, don’t take it for granted or trust it will always get better or wait for the perfect time. The perfect time to take action is always right now, right where you are. Find a company you trust, meet someone in person, pay for quality, and protect your investment by owning the system. If you’re so inclined, use the money you save from solar to buy an EV or for your next sustainability project! MN: Why is it so important that Marin and the North Bay be environmental leaders? TW: Marin, California and the entire country have to lead because we have the most to lose, and the most to gain. Many communities
hardest hit by environmental disasters and pollution live in poor conditions and don’t have the means or the power to change their circumstance. We’re fortunate to live in one of the most beautiful natural environments in the world, but it’s also one of the most expensive, competitive communities in the country. Many of the most innovative and successful people and companies in the world are here, living and working through wildfires and droughts, breathing toxic air and dealing with other natural disasters. I believe that Marin and the North Bay have the financial means, the resilient mindset and the life-safety need to solve this and set an example that other communities can follow. This interview originally ran in the December 2021 of Kentfield & Ross Living. Mickey Nelson is a longtime book editor living in the Kentfield/Ross area of Marin County. She has worked in the editorial department of the San Francisco Chronicle, a number of reputable magazines and two book publishing houses. She now edits Kentfield & Ross Living magazine and books on a variety of topics, as well as tutors in writing and reading.
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In Marin / FYI
Designing Women
Local makers share their passion and inspiration behind the products they create. BY THERESA GONZALEZ
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he Bay Area has long been a mecca for creative spirits captivated by its natural beauty — the mountains, the sea, the redwoods, the bay. Talk to most makers in the area and there’s a collective sense of gratitude to be able to do what they love in a place as idyllic as this one. These local women embody that maker spirit, each of them brave enough to take a leap to follow a labor of love, and fortunate enough to find their niche.
Tina Frey Designs
Tina Frey
TINA FREY Tina Frey Designs Inspired by everything from Japanese tea houses and wabi sabi to Swedish minimalism, designer Tina Frey has found her niche creating perfectly imperfect vessels: sculptural vases, bowls, cups, plates and other household objects. “I really appreciate the simplicity and minimalist aesthetic of useful objects that reflects the handmade nature of the item,” she says from her San Francisco studio. Tina Frey is a creative at heart who took a leap. Starting out in corporate finance, she had spent most of her free time on creative pursuits, having grown up in a design-centric home first in Hong Kong, and then
Canada. “Since I was a child, my most fluent language was a visual one: colors, shapes, the details no one else notices,” she says. “But because creating was so fun and came so easily to me, it never occurred to me that it could be my livelihood.” A pause in her career led her down the path where she started: art and design. “I enjoy being able to gather all the inspiration from my travels, nature, architecture and fashion,” she says. The Bay Area, where she moved in 1997, became an instant muse. “There is so much inspiration everywhere you look. The ocean and its powerful force with the waves is awe-inspiring,” she says. “You don’t have to go very far outside of the city to feel like you’re a world away from it all.” Sold at Clic in Marin Country Mart, Tina Frey designs are also featured in hotels and restaurants around the world. Her spring 2022 collection is blooming with color: grass green, pinks, yellows and translucent colors that radiate a happy and cheerful vibe. “It’s important to follow your heart and create things that resonate from deep within your soul,” Frey says. “When this is the source of creativity, it truly comes from love and joy.”
KIMBERLY BALTZELL AND LUCY PRICE Kiki Price Best friends Kimberly Baltzell and Lucy Price were bound to start a business together. Since meeting at an ashram in Calabasas, California, more than 25 years ago, they have both become mothers, both survived breast cancer, and together taken what Baltzell describes as “insane back-country ski trips among other challenging physical adventures.” Baltzell, a professor at the University of California San Francisco focused on infectious disease in Sub-Saharan Africa (during a
WANT MORE? Successful women are making a difference all across the Bay Area. Red about more of these inspiring local leaders at marinmagazine.com/women-leaders.
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pandemic), who lives in Kimberly Baltzell and Belvedere, and Price, an Lucy Price interior designer, might not seem the likeliest duo to start a shoe company. But in fact, they were the perfect pair, launching Kiki Price in the fall of last year. “Lucy is an amazing designer of interiors and hotels, plus has a knack for wearing the most perfect but unique outfit every day of her life,” Baltzell says. “We work really beautifully together. She brings the design-visual talent and my science brain contributes in other ways.” The two set out to find a more comfortable designer shoe that could take them from a remote adventure to a really great party. They connected with friend and foot surgeon, Dr. Richard Jay in Philadelphia, who had designed pediatric footbeds for Dr. Scholls. “He spent the last year and a half developing a custom footbed for us that is absolute perfection,” Baltzell explains. Handmade in Italy by artisans who crafted the first mold for Prada, Kiki Price shoes are designed to be more shockabsorbent than your typical high-heeled shoe, thanks to a patented technology that gives some relief to the ball of your foot. Baltzell and Price weigh in on every design detail, down to the placement of embellishments, buckles and zippers. “I like to say the heels are so comfortable you don’t need your car, you can just walk to your destination,” Baltzell jokes. Their most popular shoe is a metallic, multicolored pump with the words “Alternative Energy” embroidered on it. This spring, they’re coming out with a low-heel line. “My personal favorite is our heel called ‘Love Wins,’” Baltzell says. “Every bride in the world needs to be wearing those shoes as they walk down the aisle.” Baltzell says the physical beauty of Marin inspires her. “It inspires our colorways, naming, and why having beauty and something easy to wear are not mutually exclusive things,” she says. The natural beauty of women in Marin guides their designs, too. “Nothing too fancy or showy, just a radiance that comes with the incredible luck of being able to spend so much time outdoors yearround,” says Baltzell.
LAURIE BERLINER Madge & Me Hats Take a stroll down San Anselmo’s San Anselmo Avenue and you might spot milliner Laurie Berliner in her shop window, crafting one of her made-to-order hats. Perhaps it’s her popular Panama hat, made of Toquilla palm woven in Ecuador, or a felt fedora, or likely one woven from wheat straw on a 1914 Bulasky machine. No matter what she’s making, she’s doing what she loves. “I pinch myself every day because of how lucky I am to live in such a beautiful place, surrounded by the natural environment and community I love and grew up in,” Berliner says. A San Anselmo native, Berliner wasn’t always a milLaura Berliner and Madge liner. She spent 25 years as a deputy public defender for Solano County before returning to her sewing roots to study millinery in San Francisco and then at the London College of Fashion (taught by Philip Treacy studio alum Chloe Scrivener). Berliner eventually perfected her craft, selling original hats at craft fairs, including the Mill Valley Fall Arts craft fair. Just six weeks before the 2020 shutdown, she opened Madge & Me Hats, named after her 11-year-old Cardigan Welsh Corgi. “Madge’s dog friends and their human companions stop by for biscuits and to chat,” she says. “I never tire of customers, as well as visitors, coming to the shop just to marvel at my tools and hats being made by hand.” Two years in, she has surrounded herself with a creative community, collaborating with local craftsmen to design silk hat liners, a signature feature of her hats, silk-screened at A & G Screen Madge & Me Hats Printing in San Rafael. She also collaborates with San Francisco-based couture gown maker Suzanne Hanley of Atelier des Modistes to create hats for her gowns and resort wear. “I love the process of working with my customers to make their special, perfectly fitting one-of-a-kind hat,” she says. “I love working with my hands, shaping the material on the handmade wood blocks made in England by Owen Morse Brown. It’s truly a labor of love.”
Theresa Gonzalez is a Bay Area-based writer specializing in interior design and architecture. She is the author of Sunday Sews (Chronicle Books) and has contributed to San Francisco Magazine, San Francisco Chronicle, Visit California and more.
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Into the
Wild BY JESSICA GLIDDON WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHRIS GOULD
JACK WOLFORD (BIRD)
Marin’s nature preserves offer ample opportunity to not only hike scenic trails, but also to see some of California’s most unique wildlife.
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Bobcats thrive in Marin's wilds, but they can be hard to spot due to their elusive nature and camouflaged coat.
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two things: hiking and wildlife viewing. Marin’s preserves and parks hold many opportunities for encounters with California’s native wildlife, such as the magnificent tule elk, a Californian subspecies of American elk that was almost obliterated during the Gold Rush days. Another species that has returned is the coho salmon, now found in both Lagunitas and Redwood Creeks. This is in part thanks to work to
thanks to that era’s passionate environmental movements that we get to enjoy the expansive vistas, thriving woodlands and rocky beaches of our county today, which now has 85% of its land protected from development, a fact that makes Marin an incredible destination for
preserve Redwood Creek at Muir Beach, recognized as a global biodiversity hot spot because of its abundance of rare species. Other endangered species such as red-legged frogs, western pond turtles and river otters have also been recently reintroduced.
These natural spaces continue to thrive, thanks to the county’s devoted environmental organizations, many of which have been fighting to protect our natural wonders since the ’60s and ’70s. One of those organizations is the Marine Mammal Center (MMC), an education, research and conservation center for marine mammals working since 1975 to protect marine mammals including elephant and harbor seals, sea lions, otters, whales and more. “Over many decades, we’ve taken action to protect and preserve important habitats for marine life, and it’s resulted in not only growing populations of marine mammals, but also in providing fantastic spots for us to view marine mammals responsibly,” says Adam Ratner, associate director of conservation education at the center. “Regardless of the time of year, there are always marine mammals to see in Marin. The Marin coast provides them with plentiful food and safe haul-out areas.” Another one of Marin’s biggest natural draws is its more than 500 species of birds, including a number of rare species such as the northern spotted owl. “Marin's varied habitats, from the ocean to the top of Mt. Tam and through the forests to the bay, are probably what makes Marin such a great place to watch birds,” explains Robert Hinz of the Marin Audubon Society (MAS). The organization has been working to ensure it stays that way, with projects including restoring the Corte Madera Ecological Reserve and multiple marsh restoration programs that help save birds such as the endangered Ridgway’s Rail. Ready to get out there and spot some of Marin’s wild wonders? Here’s our guide to the best places to hike and view the county’s diverse wildlife. Anywhere you venture, you’re likely to see animals — just be sure to keep a safe and respectful distance.
WANT MORE? Find more trails to explore in Marin visit marinmagazine.com/hiking, or discover more ways to help preserve Marin's stunning natural environment and its incredible animals at marinmagazine.com/environmental-organizations.
MARIN VISITORS BUREAU (HIKERS)
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oday, Marin County’s rolling hills, forests, wetlands and oceans are known both for their scenic beauty and the countless species of birds, mammals, fish and reptiles that are its inhabitants. But in the 1960s, our county’s open spaces were under threat, and its wildlife was disappearing. Elephant seals, tule elk and river otters were all on the brink of extinction, threatened by ambitious development projects. It’s
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Spotting a grazing herd of Marin's famous tule elk is a highlight for Point Reyes hikers.
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Coastal
Elephant seals are impressively large and very loud, and are mostly found in Point Reyes.
TOMALES POINT TRAIL Animals to see: Tule elk, pelicans, cormorants, quails, coyote Hiking level: Easy to moderate Length: 9.5-mile loop Amenities: Restrooms at McClures Beach Parking: Free lot Dogs: No This is the best place to view Marin’s majestic tule elk population, which can be seen ambling through the rolling grasslands. Along this open and fairly flat trail, you’ll be rewarded with beautiful views of Bodega Bay, Tomales Bay and the Pacific as you make your way to the tip of Tomales Bluff. POINT REYES LIGHTHOUSE VISITOR CENTER TRAIL Animals to see: Sea lions, whales Hiking level: Easy Length: 1.2 miles Amenities: Restrooms, gift shop, visitor center Parking: Free lot Dogs: No While this is a heavily trafficked trail, it’s one of the best places to spot migrating whales from the shore, plus you’ll pass a seal viewing beach from the dramatic cliffs. You’ll reach the lighthouse at the trail's end, which was built in 1870. Venture down the 308 steps to have a closer look, or spend some time at the whale viewing platform searching the sea for gray whales. ABBOTTS LAGOON TRAIL Animals to see: Shorebirds, waterfowl,
sparrows, hawks, osprey, black-shouldered hawks, snowy plover, golden eagles, peregrine falcons, river otters, tule elk Hiking level: Easy Length: 3.3 miles Amenities: Vault toilet, trash, recycling cans Parking: Park off f Pierce Point Road. Dogs: No This is a lovely hike if you want to get up close to Point Reyes’ scenic lagoons and the multitude of birds that are attracted to its shores. Spot ducks, raptors, black-shouldered kites, and if you’re lucky, the threatened western snowy plover. Just make sure to tread carefully when you reach the beach, as this is their nesting area.
TAKE A TOUR If you don’t feel like searching out wildlife yourself, these local outfits are happy to take you on a Marin-style safari.
Point Reyes Safaris
Marin Nature Adventures
Daniel Dietritch is a wildlife photographer and naturalist with an intimate understanding of the park. There are safaris devoted specifically to birding or hiking/walking. His safaris can be tailored to photographers, include binoculars and lunch, and are available through Olema House or directly. pointreyessafaris.com
Run by environmental educator Sharon Barnett, a former director of the Marin Audubon Society and cofounder of the River Otter ecology project, and Kevin Stockman, a Marin County naturalist who works for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the company offers tours of Mt. Tam, tidepools and many hiking trails. marinnature.com
ELEPHANT SEAL OVERLOOK AND CHIMNEY ROCK TRAIL Animals to see: Elephant seals, sea lions, harbor seals Hiking level: Easy to moderate Length: .5 mile to the overlook, 2.4 miles to Chimney Rock Amenities: Restrooms Parking: Free lot Dogs: No This is the ultimate trail for seal lovers. Spot lumbering elephant seals and their pinniped cousins from this trail and overlook. This breeding colony is most visible from the months of December to March during the breeding season; if you’re lucky you might even see seals giving birth, or at least spot the giant but weirdly cute elephant seal pups rolling around on the beach. GRIFFIN LOOP TRAIL, BOLINAS LAGOON Animals to see: Herons, egrets, harbor seals, coho salmon Hiking level: Moderate Length: 2.5 miles Amenities: Education center Parking: On highway 1 Dogs: No Anyone who has driven to Point Reyes has got a glance of the lagoon winding alongside Highway 1, but probably didn’t realize how significant this body of water is. An Audubon Important Bird Area, and one of only seven Ramsar
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Red-tailed hawks are just one of the many species of raptors that patrol Marin's wilds.
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Wetlands of International Importance in the western United States, it serves as a stopover for tens of thousands of birds migrating on the Pacific Flyway. It’s also a great place to spot the adorably round harbor seals that often rest along the shore. The Bob Stewart Trail on the lagoon’s north end is a good place to start, but the Audubon Canyon Ranch’s Griffin Loop trail offers an incredible 8 miles of hiking when it’s open — check ahead of time. DIPSEA STEEP RAVINE TRAIL, MOUNT TAMALPAIS Animals to see: Raccoons, gray foxes, squirrels, bobcats, coyotes, black-tailed deer, badgers, mountain lions, numerous birds Hiking level: Moderate Length: 7.5 miles Amenities: Restrooms, water Parking: At Stinson Beach Dogs: No Looping into part of the Dipsea trail, this fourhour plus hike offers an opportunity to see both sea and mountainous terrain. There are some difficult points — you’ll have to traverse Steep Ravine — but it’s a rewarding journey for both scenery and wildlife viewing. MUIR BEACH TO POINT BONITA TRAIL Animals to see: Whales, seals Hiking level: Difficult Length: 14.3 miles Amenities: Restrooms at Muir Beach, facilities at Rodeo Beach Parking: Yes
Dogs: No While you could drive to the Point Bonita parking lot and walk the half mile to the lighthouse, this incredible hike offers a great way to take in some of the Marin Headlands' stunning scenery. Leaving from Muir Beach and heading south to Rodeo Beach, you’ll get ample time to scan the waves for passing gray whales.
Woodlands
ROY’S REDWOODS LOOP TRAIL Animals to see: Pileated woodpeckers, back-throated gray warblers, barn owls, great– horned owls, kingsnakes, racers, ring-necked snakes, rattlesnakes Hiking level: Easy Length: 2.3 mile loop Amenities: Horse trough, portable toilets Parking: Roadside Dogs: Yes This trail is home to the largest redwoods in the county, with some reaching 200 feet. It starts in a grove of towering trees before breaking out into rolling hills and meadows. Further along, the trail enters some beautiful groves — this was the setting for George Lucas’ The Ewok Adventure. Keep your eyes out for birds, especially the endangered northern spotted owl. CROSS MARIN TRAIL TO BARNABE PEAK LOOP, SAMUEL P. TAYLOR STATE PARK Animals to see: Coho salmon Hiking level: Difficult
Length: 6.6 miles Amenities: Picnic areas Parking: Park at the staging area off f Sir Francis Drake Blvd. Dogs: No To view spawning coho salmon you only need drive to the Leo T Cronin Fish Viewing Area at Lagunitas Creek between November and February, but if you’re looking for a more challenging hike, try this trail. Start at the Devil’s Gulch camping area and then follow the creek at the Marin-Cross trail, offering opportunities to spot fish along the way. Then continue onward to the Barnabe Peak Loop, which is challenging, but offers stunning views. REDWOOD CREEK TRAIL, MUIR WOODS Animals to see: Coho salmon, steelhead trout, owls, spotted owls, common ravens, pileated woodpeckers, foxes, bobcats, raccoons Hiking level: Moderate Length: 10.5 miles Amenities: Picnic area Parking: Roadside Dogs: Yes This hike has it all, starting at the beach and ending in Muir Woods. Seeing animals amongst the majestic redwoods can be difficult, but this is a good place to look for spotted owls, and many bigger mammals such as foxes, bobcats and raccoons also have their habitat here. Jessica Gliddon is the Regional Content Director at Make It Better Media Group. An international writer and editor, she volunteers at the Marine Mammal Center in Sausalito in her spare time.
VOLUNTEER
Support the valuable conservation work being undertaken by local organizations to keep Marin pristine for its animal residents. The Marine Mammal Center The Marine Mammal Center’s world-class volunteer program provides hands-on learning opportunities for community members looking to take the next step as environmental stewards and caregivers. Join the more than 1,300 volunteers who help at the animal hospital, participate in releases, educate the public and more; teens can join the youth crew. marinemammalcenter.org
Marin Audubon Society The Marin Audubon Society offers many
opportunities to support their environmental protection and conservation efforts, from restoration projects to participating in the Christmas bird count. Currently, the organization has three active restoration sites where volunteers can help restore fragile habitats. marinaudubon.org
Wildcare Wildcare is Marin’s wildlife hospital, caring for everything from owls to bobcats, as well as promoting education and environmental advocacy. Volunteers can work at the
animal hospital, become a nature guide, or assist with animal transport. They also offer internships and a camp program for teens. discoverwildcare.org
SPAWN The Salmon Protection and Watershed Network (SPAWN) is part of the The Turtle Island Restoration Network, and works to preserve coho salmon. They offer opportunities for volunteering along the Lagunitas Creek watershed, mostly involving habitat restoration. seaturtles.org/spawn
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A great horned owl oversees its domain. These elegant birds can be spotted all across the county, but most often around dawn or dusk in places like Muir Woods.
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G ARO N I G UN N I D TH E BAY W
S
American
writer Mark Twain once
described golf as a “good walk spoiled.” Considering that most courses require strolling 3 to 6 miles (depending on course length or how much you wander searching for lost balls) however, the game contributes rewarding benefits to one’s physical and mental wellbeing — regardless of the final number on the scorecard. In recent years, golf has seen a resurgence that can be largely attributed to the pandemic, which has brought an influx of newcomers — juniors to seniors — to the game. After all, the fairways and greens provided a socially distanced haven for outdoor activity that spurred a high demand for tee times. Whether the trend lasts as the pandemic subsides remains to be seen, but for now, demand remains strong. Fortunately for rookie and veteran players alike, the Bay Area is home to a bumper-crop of public golf courses offering a broad range of topography, difficulty and value.
Here’s where to play. S T O R Y AND
P H O T O S BY
ROBERT KAUFMAN
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ounty and the grea C n i t r Ma ourse nuggets tha er Bay blic u p f o e A v t c rea off er a treasure tro w ill golf m ak e any player’s game shine.
Peacock Gap Golf Club
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Peacock Gap Golf Club
San Rafael | Peacock Gap Golf Club (1960)
was designed by William F. Bell and later renovated (in the early 2000s) by Forrest Richardson, who blended the classic Bell bunker style with innovative green contours and new holes, including risk-reward par 4s, reachable par 5s and a par 3 that plays over a pond to a two-level putting surface. This Marin County favorite is a walkable 6,261yard layout offering golfers a solid variety of shot-making. Also on site are state-of-the-art practice facilities and cutting-edge instruction. peacockgapgolfclub.com
Windsor Golf Course Windsor | As a one-time host to several PGA
Ben Hogan Tour and Nike Tour (now Korn Ferry Tour) tournaments, Windsor Golf Course (1989) in Sonoma wine country is a challenging 6,599-yard layout, uncluttered by the neighboring homes, that meanders through a gently rolling landscape with a multitude of visual treats, including the club’s signature Silo, native oaks and strategically placed ponds. Treat yourself to a pre- or post-round meal at Charlie’s Restaurant. windsorgolf.com
Northwood Golf Club Monte Rio | Adjacent to the Russian River
in Sonoma County, Northwood Golf Course (1928) was designed by famed architect Alister MacKenzie (Meadow Club, Cypress Point, Augusta National) in collaboration
Chardonnay Golf Club & Vineyards Course
with Robert Hunter as a creation for the exclusive Bohemian Club. Long open to the public, the friendly staff s super welcoming at this picturesque and challenging 2,893-yard nine-hole intimate layout with narrow fairways weaving throughout strands of towering redwoods. northwoodgolf.com
The Links at Bodega Harbour Bodega Bay | Hugging Sonoma County’s
coastline with spectacular Pacific Ocean views, The Links at Bodega Harbour (back nine opened 1978/front nine opened 1987) guarantees a happier birdie experience than Alfred Hitchcock’s The Birds, which was filmed nearby. With rolling hills and undulating greens dominating this Scottish-style links designed by Robert Trent Jones, Jr., the front nine is demanding with strategically placed pot bunkers, while the back nine presents wider fairways and a dramatic three-hole finish. bodegaharbourgolf.com
unique blend of six par 5s, six par 4s and six par 3s. chardonnaygolfclub.com
Silverado Resort & Spa Napa | The combination of Napa Valley’s
renowned wine country and 36 golf holes at the iconic Silverado Resort & Spa exemplify the consummate pairing. World Golf Hall of Fame member Johnny Miller redesigned two championship courses, each offering an abundance of water and large greens. The 7,166-yard North Course, which hosts the annual PGA TOUR Fortinet Championship, is longer and more straightforward than the hillier 6,612-yard South Course with less margin for error. Whichever is played, don’t miss the acclaimed “burger dog” available at the snack shack. silveradoresort.com
Chardonnay Golf Club & Vineyards Course Napa | Searching for an authentic wine country golf experience? Chardonnay Golf Club (1986) serves up the quintessential tasting, devoid of any homes. Golfers will only need to avoid hitting their golf balls into the countless rows of chardonnay, merlot and pinot noir grapevines bordering the fairways. Sadly, there are no wine sampling stations available on the 18-hole, 6,773-yard course, but the layout does feature a
Corica Park South Course
TPC Harding Park San Francisco | Surrounded by Monterey
Cypress trees and Lake Merced, TPC Harding Park (1925) is where San Francisco-born golf legends Johnny Miller, Ken Venturi and George Archer honed their skills. Following a $16 million restoration project in 2002–03, the 6,845-yard treasure has hosted multiple professional tournaments, including the Presidents Cup (2005) and the 2020 PGA Championship. The Fleming 9 course (par 30, 48 A P R I L 2 0 2 2 M A R I N
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2,165 yards) was added in 1961 in the interior of the 18-hole layout and serves as home base for the First Tee of San Francisco. tpc.com/ hardingpark
Presidio Golf Course San Francisco | Overlooking the gateway
to San Francisco Bay, Presidio Golf Course (1895) is the second oldest golf course west of the Mississippi River. Before transitioning to a public course in 1995, play was restricted to military officers and the likes of Joe DiMaggio, Babe Ruth and Dwight Eisenhower. The deceptively long 6,481-yard hilly layout within the Golden Gate National Recreation Area works its way around eucalyptus and Monterey pine trees and is a mission worth a shot.presidiogolf.com
Half Moon Bay Golf Links Half Moon Bay | Along the Pacific Coast 30
minutes from San Francisco or Silicon Valley, two 18-hole courses create bookends to The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay. The Arnold Palmer/Francis Duane-designed 7,001-yard Old Course (1973) has a parkland feel with a
The Links at Bodega Harbour
premium on strategy over distance and a postcard 18thhole finish along the coastal bluff. The 6,854-yard links-style Ocean Course (1997) is an Arthur Hills’-crafted layout with wide-open fairways and “Big Blue” views from nearly every hole. A sunset finish on either course is highlighted by the sounds of traditional Scottish bagpipes. halfmoonbaygolf.com
in the scenic Livermore Valley wine country. The course at Wente Vineyards (1998), 50 minutes east of San Francisco, provides eyecandy panoramas to compliment a 7,181-yard layout that once challenged (2006–08) the PGA Tour’s Nationwide Tour (now Korn Ferry Tour). The uphill cart ride from the ninth to the 10th hole treats golfers to a taste of San Francisco’s world-famous crooked Lombard Steet. wentevineyards.com/golf
Corica Park Alameda | Golf “down under” on the island
Pasatiempo Golf Course Santa Cruz | Less than an hour’s drive north
city of Alameda at the Bay Area’s only Australian sandbelt-style course. After a dramatic restoration (2018) to the South Course by famed architect Rees Jones, the minimalist 6,874-yard layout plays fast and firm with the option to strike the ball to the hole by air or ground. The property, five minutes from Oakland International Airport, is also home to the North Course (front nine opened October 2021; back nine under renovation), plus the award-winning Mif Albright par-3 course. coricapark.com
The Course at Wente Vineyards Livermore | Greg “The Shark” Norman
carved an 18-hole masterpiece through acres of century-old grapevines and rolling hills
from Monterey Peninsula’s golf mecca, Pasatiempo Golf Course (1929) was designed by renowned Scottish architect Alister MacKenzie, who considered this layout his favorite 18-hole creation and where his American home still borders the sixth fairway. Consistently ranked among America’s top public golf courses, this historic 6,495-yard championship venue is a must-play on the Bay Area’s golf bucket list. pasatiempo.com
Robert Kaufman, based in Marin County, is an internationally published golf and travel writer and photographer with an observant eye and insightful journalistic style that has guided him around the world, including all 50 states. His work has appeared in magazines such as People, Time, Western Art & Architecture, GOLF (China), Great Golf (UK), and The Cut (New Zealand) and PictureParfect.com.
WANT MORE? Find guides to more great courses in Marin, the Bay Area, nationally and even abroad at marinmagazine.com/golf.
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150 De Haro St E, San Francisco, CA 94103 | (415) 777-1030 | info@lignerosetsf.com
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The cottage’s owners wanted it remodeled but insisted on maintaining its modest footprint: 1,600 square feet. That meant the architects had to make the most of the limited space. The architects chose to remove a large stone fireplace and replace it with the more efficient, gas fireplace pictured on the right.
ARCHITECTS HEIDI RICHARDSON AND ANDREW PRIBUSS REMODEL A DATED MILL VALLEY COTTAGE TO CREATE A REFINED SANCTUARY FOR TWO ARTISTS. BY LAURA HINE | PHOTOS BY THIBAULT CARTIER
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BEAUTY
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THIS CENTURY-OLD COTTAGE NESTLED AMONG THE redwoods was showing its age when it was purchased in 2019 by a couple, both artists, who live primarily in New York City. “It was a ramshackle hodgepodge,” says Andrew Pribuss, a principal at Richardson Pribuss Architects. Partner Heidi Richardson adds, “There had been additions and renovations, a porch that had been enclosed, and, in the middle, there was a monstrous stone fireplace.” The new owners definitely had opinions about what they wanted: mainly, remodeling of the kitchen and bathrooms and fixing some of the unfortunate past renovations. Their plans didn’t include enlarging the 1,600-square-foot cottage. “This was an exercise in ‘small is beautiful,’” Richardson says. She adds that not expanding the house made the permitting process go quickly. The primary bedroom saves space with built-in storage for books, phone chargers and reading lights in the bed’s headboard.
Richardson and Pribuss know all the ins and outs of building and renovating both residential and commercial projects in Marin County and San Francisco. Richardson started the firm in 1984. Pribuss joined in 2011 and became a partner in 2019. They specialize in integrating structures into their landscapes. This cottage needed their touch, both structurally and aesthetically. The first priority was to fix the home’s flow and maximize the living space. The team opened up the space both visually and practically by removing the massive stone fireplace that dominated the living room. They also opened things up by exposing the three gables that give the cottage its unique roofline and interior ceiling. This involved removing some supporting walls and adding steel beams, Pribuss says. The biggest change the duo made was to relocate the home’s entrance and relandscape the front of the house to create a better flow from the street. “We moved the entry over one bay,” Richardson says. “We lost a CONNECT WITH US ONLINE! spacesmag.com/subscribe
To make the home more inviting, the architects moved the entrance and created a new front porch. Two awkward sets of exterior stairs were removed.
bedroom, but we got a laundry room, a mudroom and a real living-dining-kitchen space. That was the big move that fixed the house.” The new entrance and front porch also eliminated two awkward sets of exterior stairs, making the house much more welcoming. Elsewhere, the architects added features that make the cottage live larger than its square footage, like tons of built-in storage in the kitchen and mudroom, a built-in desk tucked into the corner of the living room, and the perfect place for books, phone chargers and reading lights integrated into the primary bed’s headboard. While a renovation is almost always more environmentally friendly than tearing down and starting over, the team took additional steps to increase the cottage’s sustainability (many, they note, that are required by California’s Title 24). The replacement for the open-hearth fireplace is a smaller, gas fireplace that’s not only cozy but also much more efficient. The architects added energy-efficient windows and skylights, and fireresistant siding on the home’s exterior. Inside, for the kitchen cabinets, the artist owners requested a very specific cerulean blue paint made by a British company. But, it had VOCs beyond state limits, so the team found an environmentally friendly formulation that the owners like just as much. “It was an interesting insight into an artist’s mind,” Richardson observes. As a backdrop to the cerulean blue, the team chose neutral wood and plaster for the walls and ceiling. Several wood species were considered and rejected before the owners approved a hemlock that is a bit yellow and a bit red. It plays perfectly with the blue of the kitchen and the greenish light of the surrounding redwoods that comes in through the windows. Other walls are fronted with Japanese plaster that, in its imperfections, nods to the cottage’s rustic roots, while still looking modern and warm. The exterior, which has previously consisted of several mismatched colors and materials, is now fully wrapped in just one of the shades: a dark green that the owners liked. The single color makes a cohesive statement that makes the cottage seem tranquilly settled in the beautiful forest that surrounds it. The project began just as the pandemic restricted travel, so, the owners only visited once during the process. “They came out after it was framed to finalize the materials,” Pribuss says. “Fortunately, they trusted us, and in the end, they were really happy.” Richardson adds, “This was a dream project for dream clients.” Laura Hine is a design and style writer based in Chicago. She's a former editor-inchief of Better, as well as the Modern Luxury publications CS Interiors and NS.
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AFTER RENTING VACATION HOMES in Glen Ellen for over a decade, San Francisco real estate developer Howard Epstein and interior designer Tami Epstein found a property they had long admired was about to come on the market. “We’d been looking at this property through the gate for many years, but we never saw anyone there,” Tami says. “Then, one day we saw a sign for an estate sale, and went right in. We knew it was the one.” In spite of multiple bidders, the couple successfully purchased the home, closing on a Thursday. On Saturday they picked up the keys, spent some time at the house and walked the property, then they locked up and went home, excited about their new home. On Monday they got the news that a small wildfire had rapidly swept through the area on Sunday. “We hadn’t met any of the neighbors yet, so we had no idea,” she says. A few days later when they were allowed in the area, they found that the house was destroyed as were some of the property’s mature trees. “We were in shock, but fortunately we hadn’t moved in yet, so we didn’t lose any personal items.” DESIGNING A MODERN RANCH
Determined to rebuild, the couple hired architect Ryan Knock, who founded Knock Architecture in 2009, and had worked on projects in San Francisco with the Epsteins. The team also included Eames Construction and Rozanski Landscape Design. The couple knew they wanted a house inspired by modernist architect John Lautner and his California Ranch style, and asked Knock to design the 3,600-square-foot house to capitalize on the still spectacular views toward the property’s creek and adjacent open land. “It’s a house that looks like it’s always been there,” Knock says. “The mix of wood, glass and concrete has a very organic and natural feel.” It’s also a house that is made for living
outside as well as inside.
everything was going to be OK.”
A FLOW BETWEEN INDOORS AND OUTDOORS
The home’s main living area features a 44-foot Fleetwood door that slides fully open. Cleverly, the first eight feet of the deck match the interior’s stained concrete floor and the overhang’s stained cedar matches the interior’s stained fir ceiling. “What your eye sees is a continuation of the interior into the exterior space,” Tami says. “When the doors are open, it just flows.” And what it flows into are multiple spaces for the family to gather, like the sofas and custom firepit just outside the kitchen, or the multiple seating areas around the pool. “We gather for casual conversations, mid-afternoon naps and for making s’mores at night with the whole family,” she says. “We never tire of that view of the Sonoma Creek and its thick, lush blanket of trees.” DECOR THAT TAKES CUE FROM NATURE
Inside, Tami designed the home to continue the outside’s organic feel, but with brutalist touches. “I wanted things in the house to be very bold,” she says. “I didn’t want a lot of things, but I wanted each and every piece to stand on its own.” One of the most striking features is the central fireplace, which is clad in handmade tile from Ann Sacks and divides the home’s entrance from the main room. “The tile plays well with the geometric entry hall light fixture as well as with the organic glass coffee table,” she says. “There’s a play of modern and organic running throughout the house.” The organic pieces include a woven artwork by Bay-area artist Meghan Shimek and the 10-foot-long, live-edge dining room table that Tami had made from the remains of a tree that didn’t survive the wildfire. “As the bark was falling off his tree, it made a perfect heart,” she says. “That’s when I knew
To make the small home feel more spacious, Richardson and Pribuss added large windows and skylights that let in copious light. The windows also connect the home to its surroundings — a beautiful redwood forest.
WANT MORE? Discover more stunning local remodels at marinmagazine.com/featured-homes.
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This page: Japanese metal rain chains hang along the exterior of the house. Opposite: The Wang family enjoys time together outside, beside their new home's Japanese garden.
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ZEN AND THE ART OF DESIGN A JAPANESE GARDEN IS THE STUNNING CENTERPIECE OF A REMODELED, MIDCENTURY-MODERN HOME IN LOS ALTOS. BY PAMELA DITTMER MCKUEN | PHOTOS BY MIKIKO KIKUYAMA
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The kitchen’s contemporary mood begins with custom walnut cabinets and Vadara countertops, and accentuated by Thermador appliances, Pablo Designs pendant lamps and Velux skylight.
WHEN LILY AND ALEX WANG BOUGHT A 1950S RANCH in Los Altos in near-original condition, they knew they were in for significant renovations. The layout wasn’t ideal for their family of five (plus a poodle puppy named Truffle), but they fell in love with the remnants of a Japanese garden — which also badly needed a refresh — that the L-shaped home wrapped around. The couple also thought the home’s midcentury aesthetic would pair well with their deep appreciation for Japanese design. Their vision was a seamless indoor-outdoor lifestyle with the restored garden as the centerpiece, along with modern-day functionality and maximum sustainability. “We wanted a true sanctuary for relaxation and hosting,” Lily says. They found just the team to make it happen in Palo Alto-based Ogawa Fisher Architects (OFA), who drew up a whole-house remodel and three additions. The original L-shaped floor plan was a maze of small spaces — typical of the era. The only room with an advantageous view of the garden was the living room, which took up most of one wing. Four small bedrooms were packed into the other wing and a narrow, CONNECT WITH US ONLINE! spacesmag.com/subscribe
windowless kitchen was tucked into the vertex. OFA principal Hiromi Ogawa says, “Our concept was to surround the garden with public spaces where you spend most of your day.” That meant flipping the bedrooms and kitchen and adding a new primary suite with a private outdoor lounging area. A new attached garage was built on the street side. The original detached garage became a one-bedroom guest suite with a kitchen and a bath. A wall of glass sliders opens the space, which doubles as Alex’s home office and guest quarters, to the tranquil garden. The architects incorporated a number of sustainable features, including solar panels on the roof, a battery backup system and a charging station in the garage for the family’s electric vehicle. A key architectural element is the engawa, a wide wooden deck connected to the home and flush with the interior floor. The Wangs’ engawa runs in a U-shape along three sides of the garden: on both sides of the living room wing and outside the primary suite. Existing glass sliders were enlarged, and new ones were added to heighten the garden’s visibility from almost anywhere in the home. The roof’s WANT MORE? For more home decor and design inspiration, expert advice from industry leaders and work by local artists visit spacesmag.com.
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overhangs were deepened and enclosed with tongue-and-groove cedar soffits to prevent unnecessary heat gain and glare from the sun. “The walkway blurs the lines of inside and outside,” Ogawa says. Restoring the Japanese garden to year-round glory was an organic process of trial and error. For guidance, the Wangs brought in a consultant from the century-old Hakone Estate and Gardens, a Japanese garden in Saratoga, California, that’s open to the public. Their plan incorporated natural elements of water, wood and rock with a single off-center cypress tree as the anchor. The project entailed moving massive boulders — a few went to the front yard — and digging out overgrown foliage, including a second cypress tree. More rocks of varying sizes were added and organized in tiers to direct the flow of a streaming water feature. Alex even got a workout helping with the arrangement. A selection of new botanicals that require minimal irrigation was strategically planted, and the side without the engawa was bordered with curvilinear bamboo fencing by the Elk Grove-based landscape design firm Stroke of Nature. “It looks natural and authentic, and it’s very intentional,” Lily observes. “There was a lot of moving rocks back and forth until it looked finished.” The airy, open kitchen with a breakfast nook and an adjacent dining room was “Our concept was to surround the designed to entertain a crowd, whether garden with public spaces where guests mingle around the central island or you spend most of your day.” wander onto the engawa. A mix of laminate and walnut cabinets, an engineered quartz — OFA principal Hiromi Ogawa counter and pendant globe lights are sleek
The dining room pendant light is by LZF. The brick fireplace is original to the house. The architect kept it as a subtle division between the kitchen and living room.
Surrounding the Wangs' garden is the engawa, a distinctive Japanese wooden porch.
and modern, nodding to the home’s midcentury origins. “The kitchen has really big sliders, so it also becomes part of the courtyard,” Ogawa says. The new garage and guest suite, at opposite ends of the front of the house, are joined by a small courtyard and a continuous roof. A cubic opening above lets light stream in. From this small courtyard, a gate leads to the engawa. The gate is reminiscent of shoji screens — the translucent, folding screens that are ubiquitous in Japanese interiors. Japanese metal rain chains, which function as both downspouts and decorative water features, hang intermittently along the exterior of the house. The rain chains chime sweetly in the breeze. A handful of boulders, relocated from the garden, artfully blend with droughtresistant landscaping in the front yard — a preview of what’s beyond the gate. OFA’s in-house interior designer Catherine Nelson, along with team members Lynn Fisher, Sucharitha Yelimeli and Cristian Figueroa, selected most of the furnishings and art, incorporating them with pieces the family already owned. “The whole design makes us feel very relaxed, so we can really enjoy each other,” Lily says. “You can tell Hiromi approached this project as if it was her own home.” Pamela Dittmer McKuen is an award-winning journalist who specializes in home, design and travel. She’s an ardent supporter of animal shelters, as well as nonprofits that combat homelessness.
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G A L L E RY
SUSTAINABLY CHIC
THESE FIVE DESIGN FINDS ARE BOTH BEAUTIFUL AND EARTH-FRIENDLY. BY LISA BOQUIREN Over the past few years, sustainable design has gone from “nice-to-have” to “must-have,” according to many interior designers. These fi e furniture and lighting pieces reflect how things are changing for the better, from utilizing recycled fabrics and responsibly sourced wood to 3-D printing that removes the need for overseas shipping and resale programs that keep furniture out of landfills
SWAG PENDANTS by Ted Bradley Studio; $15,300 for a set of three De Sousa Hughes; desousahughes.com Sometimes a light fixtu e is truly a work of art, and that’s certainly the case with these pendants by sculptor and mechanical engineer Ted Bradley. He’s well known for his innovative light sculptures that are handcrafted by skilled artisans in Boulder, Colorado. These pendants, which were inspired by a solar eclipse, consist of white porcelain rings that are inlaid with LEDs. They hang from cords of intricately braided metal.
NILES SOFA by Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams; from $4,527 Ruby Design Living; rubyliving.com This sofa’s plush cushions and curved silhouette will make you want to stay put for hours. Plus, there’s a certain psychic comfort in knowing it was sustainably made in North Carolina using locally sourced wood. To boot, the springs are made from 65% recycled metal. Even the cushion filling is e o-friendly. It comes in just about any color and fabric you desire — even a fabric made from upcycled marine plastic.
CORAIL DINING TABLE designed by Antoine Fritsch and Vivien Durisotti for Roche Bobois; from $11,735 Roche Bobois; roche-bobois.com European companies like Roche Bobois still set the standard when it comes to furniture design, but importing furniture from overseas isn’t very eco-friendly. With the Corail dining table, Antoine Fritsch and Vivien Durisotti aimed to disrupt the status quo. The biomorphic table base, which is made from 3-D printed concrete, can be customized in numerous ways. A digital file can be sent o a U.S.-based manufacturer, removing the need for overseas shipping.
THE ESSENTIAL CHAIR; $745 Sabai; sabai.com The online-only retailer Sabai, founded three years ago, is dedicated to making furniture that is affordable, attractive and, above all, earth-friendly. Their pieces, such as this sleek, cozy chair, are made in a family-owned factory in North Carolina, with responsibly sourced wood, recycled fiber fill and abric made from recycled water bottles — among other sustainable materials. Their “Repair Don’t Replace” program and resale service keep Sabai furniture out of landfills.
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LUMENESCE FLOOR LAMP by Stacy Stone for Phoenix Day; price upon request Sloan Miyasato; sloanm.com Sometimes a light fixtu e become a focal point; other times it’s intended to almost disappear, according to designer Stacy Stone. This elegantly understated lamp is certainly meant to blend in. The piece is produced in local, family-owned workshop that dates to 1850. The body is available in a variety of metal finishes, and the base is locally sourced oak, available in a charcoal or bleached finish.
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SPACES SHOWCASE
John Goodman a 20 year survey, on view April 2nd-30th
‘Tea and Ink’, 2020, Oil on panel, 15 x 16 inches
Please join us at Art Market SF, Fort Mason Festival Pavilion April 21-24 Booth E15’
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SPACES SHOWCASE
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Celebrating Over 50 years in business! In the right light, at the right time, everything is extraordinary. - aaron rose
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WANT MORE? For more home decor and design inspiration, expert advice from industry leaders, and stunning pieces by local artists, visit spacesmag.com
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Marin Magazine
Home Renovation Guide
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HOM E RENOVATION GUIDE
P ROMOT I ON
Chambers + Chambers Architects ARCHITECTURE • INTERIORS Chambers + Chambers is a boutique architectural practice specializing in residential and interior design services. Understated elegance, quiet luxury, richness in color and texture, classical detailing, and axial relationships are signature elements of our award-winning designs. Our work has been featured in Elle Décor, LUXE Interiors + Design, Veranda, House Beautiful, and Town & Country. 420 Miller Avenue • Mill Valley, CA 415.381.8326 • chambersandchambers.com
Eco-Terric ROWENA FINEGAN, FOUNDER OF ECO-TERRIC If you’re highly allergic and sensitive to environmental toxins, Rowena Finegan has beautiful news for you. You’ll find sustainable, non-toxic, chemical-free home furnishings in her store and on her website. Rowena is uncompromising in her selections of furniture, carpeting, window coverings, and accents. And she is also happy to help you design your healthy interior spaces with elegance and style. 323 Pine Street • Sausalito, CA eco-terric.com • For Appt.: rowena@eco-terric.com
Integrated Resources Group IRG’S MACAUBA QUARTZITE + FORM+FIELD DESIGN Dramatic or soft and gentle, IRG’s in-stock Quartzite selection offers a variety of colorations and veining. One recent example is IRG’s stunning White Macauba Quartzite. Used here on countertops and paired with cool-colored cabinets, the result is a minty fresh update by Form+Field Design. Visit IRG and let our staff guide you through their vast warehouse of in-stock slabs today. Photo credit: R. Brad Knipstein Photography 415.657.0280 • marblecompany.com
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P ROMOT I ON
HOM E RENOVATION GUIDE
North Coast Tile & Stone FULL SERVICE TILE AND STONE FABRICATION AND INSTALLATION 3854 Santa Rosa Avenue Santa Rosa, CA 707.586.2064 nctile.com
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amily owned and operated for over 30 years, they are the North Bay leader in tile installation and granite fabrication for residential remodels, new home construction and commercial jobs.
From start to finish, North Coast Tile is dedicated to working with you on accomplishing your vision. Hundreds of granite, quartzite, marble, soapstone, limestone and onyx slabs to choose from in their acre large outdoor yard. Inside is a beautiful boutique tile showroom offering hand selected tile lines from all over the world. Six designers are on staff to help you achieve your vision. At North Coast Tile they are also happy to work with you and / or your Designer, Contractor and Architect. Expertise, knowledge and trust make them the tile company that provides the solid foundation you will need to get your project started. Edie Chaska Design
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Sandra Bird Designs, Inc. ISLAND “STAYCATION”
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If the kitchen is the heart of the home, then the kitchen island is at the heart’s center. An island serves not only as a food prep and storage area, but also a homework station, a Zoom conference room, and as an important gathering spot for family and friends. With spectacular use of finishes, textures, light and color, Sandra Bird creates islands that are unique to each kitchen and to the needs of the individual client. For more exotic islands, visit SandraBird.com or Sandra Bird Designs on HOUZZ.com.
415.927.1171 • sandrabird.com • Lic #460795 Photographer: Dennis Anderson
Architectural Design Carpets DESIGN & INSTALLATION EXPERTS The Foundation Of Your Home Starts With Us. Marin County’s hidden gem flooring showroom, Architectural Design Carpets, has over 30 years of experience. With an array of luxury one-of-a-kind statement rugs to family-friendly floors. We collaborate with the Bay Area’s top interior designers, realtors, and homeowners to achieve their flooring vision with our inspirational collection of broadloom carpets, rugs, and hardwood floors. 1111 Francisco Blvd East, Suite 3 • San Rafael, CA 415.458.1717 • architecturaldesigncarpets.com
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HOM E RENOVATION GUIDE
Lamperti Contracting & Design REDEFINING EXPECTATIONS… ONE CUSTOMER AT A TIME
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s a standard we truly live by. Lamperti Contracting and Design has been providing exquisite and functional modern, transitional and traditional kitchens and baths in Marin County since 1965. The owner, Sean Kelly, has over 30 years’ experience in all aspects of the design/build industry; specializing in high-end Kitchens and Baths. We invite you to visit our newly redesigned and comprehensive kitchen and bath showroom featuring Bentwood, Harmoni, Columbia, Woodharbor and the Sub-Zero/Wolf Parlor – showcasing the latest innovations and trends in appliances and cabinetry. With a full-service design team, we will help you envision creative and functional ideas to incorporate into your dream home. Lamperti Contracting and Design takes pride in knowing each project reflects superior quality and artistic mastery.
1241 Andersen Drive San Rafael, CA 415.454.1623 lampertikitchens.com
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Badeloft MODERN. SIMPLE.
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ere at Badeloft, we take a modern yet minimalistic approach to the design of our bathroom fixtures. We specialize in Stone Resin freestanding bathtubs, freestanding sinks, wallmount sinks and counter-top sinks. Our Stone Resin products are made from marble and limestone mixed with a polyester resin. As far as bathtubs go, people are moving away from the acrylic and fiberglass tubs as they have zero heat retention. Since Badeloft products are made with natural minerals and the tubs are one-piece, solid fixtures, they have noticeably strong heat retention and will help the water inside stay warmer, longer. Badeloft is a global brand based in Berlin, Germany. With showrooms throughout Europe and N. America, our US offices and showroom are located in the San Francisco Bay Area. Our products are designed in Berlin ensuring that all of our products demonstrate both practicality and modern innovation. We are confident that they will be the focal point of your new bathroom.
2829 Bridgeway, Suite 101 • Sausalito, CA 7305 Edgewater Drive, Suite D • Oakland, CA 877.892.3445 • badeloftusa.com
City Carpets FLOORING DESIGN CENTER Creating a beautiful, healthy home is important. The City Carpets team knows the latest trends and understands the Marin homeowner. They offer an expansive selection of natural and sustainable products including wool, seagrass, jute, linoleum, cork, and bamboo that contribute to a healthier living environment. This locally owned store can help you create your dream home from design to installation. 555 E. Francisco Blvd • San Rafael, CA 415.454.4200 • city-carpets.com • CSL #746886
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Sunrise Home STICKLEY’S WALNUT GROVE COLLECTION 831 B Street San Rafael, CA 415.456.3939 sunrisehome.com
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e’ve happily created a new gallery devoted to Stickley’s Walnut Grove Collection. You will LOVE its clean and curated aesthetic which promises easy care even in the busiest of environments.
Crafted from American walnut, it will stand the rigors of modern life beautifully. The collection includes bedroom groups, dining groups as well as consoles, coffee tables and side tables. Fairly quick ship and well priced, this definitely makes your design decisions easier - you can have it all - beauty, durability, delivery and value! Visit us soon to see the new Walnut Grove collection and ask about our new Partnership Promotion offering 20% off for two years!
Stickley has long been considered America’s finest manufacturer. Purchasing pieces that will stand the test of time, long after the trends have come and gone, is eco conscious and a great investment. You will love and enjoy your pieces for years to come!
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Destinations T H E B E ST LO C A L G E TAWAYS PLU S J O U R N E YS A RO U N D T H E G LO B E
Pay It Forward Make meaningful memories on your next Hawaiian getaway by engaging in activities that produce a positive impact. BY JEANNE COOPER AND MIMI TOWLE
JEANNE COOPER (KIPUKA OLOWALU, LIMAHULI GARDEN); BOB CARLIN (TREE)
Kipuka Olowalu team member, Maui
x
Wiliwili tree
This image: Limahuli Garden, Kauai; above: Hanalei Bay, Kauai
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Destinations / GO
OAHU Clean Up Realizing there were so many residents and visitors picking up the trash left behind by others or brought in from the sea on beaches, trails and parks, the founders of 808 Cleanups decided to make it easier for good people to do these good deeds. The folks at 808 Cleanups support volunteers by providing supplies, connecting them with other volunteers and helping them organize their own cleanups. Check their events calendar next time you’re heading to Oahu. 808cleanups.org/calendar Plant a Tree Hawaii’s forests are disappearing due to wooded land being converted for other uses. Since 2010, the Hawai'ian Legacy Reforestation Initiative (HLRI) has been working diligently to reforest the islands, primarily with indigenous koa trees. Other goals they’re undertaking include protecting endangered species, sequestering carbon and recharging watersheds. legacyforest.org
Hanalei Bay, Kauai
Limahuli Garden Director Lei Wan
Hotel opened; to nearly 250,000 in 1959, the year jet service began to the new 50th state; and to 10.4 million in 2019 — sparked calls for a new mindset even before the coronavirus pause. Inspired by regenerative tourism, in which visitors leave a place better than they found it, local authorities now encourage travelers to mālama Hawaii — to protect and care for the islands' natural resources and unique culture by acting pono — doing the right thing. Luckily, the main islands all off r unique opportunities to do just that, from planting native trees to supporting local artisans and animals. Bonus: These activities just may be the best part of your vacation. Shop for Good The ultimate small local business meets savvy global shopper win-win can be found, unexpectedly, in the middle of Waikiki at The Royal Hawaiian Shopping Center. House of Mana Up offers a vast selection of food, fashion, home, beauty and art made by Island entrepreneurs. Can’t make it to Waikiki? No problem, shop online. houseofmanaup.com
HAWAII ISLAND Plant a Tree The Waikoloa Dry Forest Initiative protects one of the last native dryland forests in Hawaii, home to rare wiliwili, mamane and iliahi (sandalwood) trees, 5 miles above the Waikoloa Beach Resort. If you can’t volunteer to help with planting, seed collection or weeding the second and fourth of Saturdays of each month, take one of the free guided sunset hikes through the rugged but breathtaking preserve the first Friday of the month, or donate to have a tree planted. waikoloadryforest.org
JEANNE COOPER (HANALEI BAY)
F
rom the time humans arrived in the Hawaiian archipelago an estimated 1,500 years ago, they began altering the ecosystem. Polynesian voyagers found easy prey in now-extinct flightless birds, while their descendants’ sophisticated systems of fishponds and taro patches, although feeding thousands, permanently changed native habitats. But these early inhabitants’ impact has been minimal compared to that of Captain Cook’s landing in 1778, which had calamitous eff cts on the islands’ people, as well as indigenous flora and fauna. Environmental and social issues tied to the explosive growth of tourism — from 17,500 in 1927, the year Waikiki’s Royal Hawaiian
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Walk a Dog Ideally, you’d also adopt one of the many shelter dogs on an island overflowing with canines, but if you can’t, consider a field trip with one, courtesy of the Hawaii Island Humane Society. Sign up online to take a pooch out for the day from either its Kona or Hilo shelters, and the nonprofit will provide a leash, tips on where to go and a backpack with everything you’ll need. hihs.org Buy Local Visit the wealth of farmers’ markets — two of the best are Saturday mornings at Pukulani Stables and Parker School in Waimea — for jewelry, textiles, woodworking and other crafts, as well as delicious prepared food and fresh produce. Also, check out hanalikehomemarket. com for the latest location of a roving monthly market of more than 30 island artisans. kamuelafarmersmarket.com; waimeatownmarket.com
Waikoloa Dry Forest Preserve
MAUI Protect Native Habitat The Hawaii Land Trust offers the opportunity to help restore wetlands and coastal dunes in areas both easily accessible and intriguingly remote. Close to Kahului, volunteers help with conservation efforts every Friday and the third Saturday of the month at the 277-acre Waihee Coastal Dunes and Wetlands Refuge, which also holds significant cultural sites. On the backside of Haleakala, near Kaupo, the nonprofit hosts volunteer workdays four times a year at its 81-acre Nuu Preserve, popular with native birds and local fishermen. Donations are also welcome. hilt.org Restore a Valley In Olowalu Valley, a historic place of refuge located about 8 miles south of Lahaina, the nonprofit Kipuka Olowalu welcomes volunteers to help prune native trees, plant taro, remove invasive plants and otherwise improve its 72-acre cultural reserve. Sign up in advance for a Wednesday or Thursday morning shift, which includes experiencing a traditional welcome chant and refreshments; tools and gloves are proMana Up vided. kipukaolowalu.com Buy Local While there are many fun farmers’ markets around the island, the Maui Sunday Market may have the best local vibe while still being visitor friendly. It’s held from 4 to 8 p.m. Sundays at the Kahului Shopping Center, with a wide variety of food trucks and food vendors to satisfy your dinner and dessert cravings (look for taro muffins or the Molokai Hot Bread stand), plus lots of great souvenirs like island-style T-shirts, caps, woven hats, jams and more. mauisundaymarket.com
BOB CARLIN (FOREST PRESERVE)
KAUAI Clean Up Although the Garden Island’s beaches are naturally gorgeous, ocean debris and litter left on the sand can accumulate to the point of
WANT MORE? Looking for more ways to explore the Aloha State? Visit marinmagazine.com/hawaii for more ideas on where to go, what to see, what to do, and where to eat and sleep.
harming green sea turtles, endangered Hawaiian monk seals and other marine life. Make a morning meditative practice of beachcombing for trash, or volunteer with the Surfrider Foundation for one of its frequent cleanups. kauaisurfrider.org Protect Native Plants The National Tropical Botanical Garden provides a spectacular setting for native and other plants in its McBryde Garden on the South Shore and an equally scenic enclave for learning about indigenous plants and Hawaiian culture in its Limahuli Garden and Preserve on the North Shore. You can contribute to the efforts as a volunteer — e-mail volunteer@ntbg.org to find out what days and times are available — or sign up for a paid tour, shop their excellent gift shops or make a donation. ntbg.org Buy Local Gourmet food fans will love the Kauai Culinary Market, held every Wednesday from 4 to 6 p.m. at the Shops at Kukuiula. It not only includes delectable Kauai-sourced products, but it also features chef demonstrations, tastings and live music. Also, browse the madeon-Kauai wares — including chocolate, dried fruit, soaps, clothing, art and gifts — at the Kauai Store, open daily in Kapaa. kauaigrown.org; thekauaistore.com Mimi Towle is the Editor at Large of Marin Magazine. She's also started a new venture focusing on travel content for both Hawaii and California. In her spare time, she can be found on the trails, in the ocean or typing “sushi near me” into her phone. Travel writer and guidebook author Jeanne Cooper lives in Hawaii, where she volunteers with the Hawaii Island Humane Society and St. James’ Community Meal.
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Destinations / APPELLATIONS
A “Greener” Glass of Wine
These four planet-friendly wineries are working to reduce their impact on the environment. BY CHRISTIANA MUELLER
P
inning down what it means to be an eco-friendly winery is evolving as fast as our climate. An umbrella term describing the tools and techniques that leave low or no impact on the soil and the grapes during harvest and
production, eco-friendly wineries leverage a welter of organic, sustainable and regenerative practices with a dual end goal: Craft a great-tasting product and do it with less environmental impact. Regenerative practices can even reverse an environmental
footprint by sequestering carbon in the soil. As an increasing number of winemakers embrace this eco-friendly ethos, we highlighted a few businesses here that are implementing these changes for the wellbeing of our future.
content) to utilizing a precision suckering technique called “green pruning” (to amplify select fruiting canes and reduce plant stress later in the cycle), it’s a laborious and precise method of farming. The result is a beverage that is as healthful as possible. Taste Paul Sloan’s wines in his apple packing barn at the family’s historic 1890s-era Barlow homestead by appointment only, or look for them at Madcap restaurant in San Anselmo and Vintage Wines in Mill Valley. 1600 Barlow Lane, Sebastopol; 707.823.0886; smallvines.com Mark Lyon, Eco Terreno
Small Vines
SEBASTOPOL Winemaker and vineyard manager Paul Sloan and his wife, Kathryn Sloan, of Sebastopol’s Small Vines first started farming vines in 1998. “We didn’t have the luxury then of farming the way we envisioned,” he says. With 3.5 acres in chardonnay and 15.5 acres in pinot noir, Sloan crafts Sonoma Coast AVA wines, including a méthode champenoise from both varietals. It took another 10 years before the Sloans could farm biodynamically — they had to learn an
entirely new consciousness of how to farm. “How was farming before the chemical revolution?” Sloan asked himself. “That is what biodynamics was derived from, when chemicals did not exist — it’s like homeopathy in a vineyard, if you will,” he says. His regenerative farm requires him to think proactively of natural ways to solve problems before they occur. From planting denser vineyards with narrower lanes between rows (to retain the grapes’ natural acidity and stave off he need to add tartaric acid or boost a wine’s alcohol
DAWN HEUMANN (PAUL AND KATHERYN SLOAN)
Paul and Kathryn Sloan, Small Vines
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CampoVida
Eco Terreno Wines
CLOVERDALE Winemaker and proprietor Mark Lyon at Eco Terreno Wines became a trailblazer when he shared his LGBTQ+ status in a 2004 San Francisco Chronicle article, “Winemakers to Watch.” When he launched Eco Terreno after a career at Sebastiani, Lyon set out to farm in harmony with nature, growing highquality fruit with regenerative ecological actions. “It’s no longer enough to farm sustainably,” Lyon says. His 92-acre Cloverdale farm follows a set of core principles to farm for the future. Plant diversity keeps nutrients in balance and weeds in check. Animals freely roam amongst the vines, managing pests and adding manure to the soil. The farm composts more than 500 tons of cow manure, pomace and plant waste, converting inactive dirt to healthy soil. Biodynamic farming preparations foster the growth of beneficial bacteria, acting like supplements to enrich the soil and prevent
diseases. Try the wines at the tasting room in San Francisco’s North Beach neighborhood, set to open this summer. 140 Columbus Ave, San Francisco; 707.938.3833; ecoterreno.com
CampoVida
HOPLAND “Field of life” is the literal translation of Hopland’s CampoVida but it’s also the stylistic focus of winemaker Matt Hughes. Organic and biodynamic vineyards are pillars of his winemaking, allowing for the deepest connection between the vines and the earth. “We guide the winemaking process with a light touch to keep that voice of the vineyard from being muted,” Hughes says. He does not routinely add sulfur dioxide as a preservative to his wines, selecting gentler and more natural methods. CampoVida wines — viognier, rosé and rosé de grenache — are available for tasting at their sister property, the bar at the Stock Farm. 13441 US-101, Hopland; 707.744.1977; campovida.com
WANT MORE? The trend for natural wines is closely related to the eco-friendly wine movement — read more about local wines to try at marinmagazine.com/natural-wines.
Ames Morison, Medlock Ames
Medlock Ames
ALEXANDER VALLEY Cofounder Ames Morison has been sustainably farming his 50-acre vineyard, Medlock Ames, in Sonoma’s Alexander Valley for 23 years. After 19 years as winemaker, Morison now focuses his energy on the winery’s strategic sustainability goals, transferring the head winemaker role to Abby Watt. Regenerative agriculture practices are built in, and the team recently launched a five-year plan to cement their sustainable legacy. The plan seeks to eliminate their carbon footprint, enhance biodiversity, reduce water dependency, create a fireresilient ecosystem, nurture an inclusive work environment and deepen community engagement. The holistic emphasis means that most of the 340-acre property remains in its natural state. Taste Medlock Ames wines at their historic tasting room. 3487 Alexander Valley Road, Healdsburg; 707.431.8845; medlockames.com Christina Mueller has been in food media for over 10 years. Her work has appeared in many print and online publications including Sunset magazine, Edible Communities and Eater, among others.
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TICKETS ON SALE NOW! BEN HARPER & THE INNOCENT CRIMINALS
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Out & About A R O U N D U P O F T H E H O T T E S T L O C A L E V E N T S , S O C I A L G AT H E R I N G S A N D P L A C E S T O E AT
“Guo Pei: Couture Fantasy” at the Legion of Honor
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Eat & Drink A N I N S I D E R ’ S G U I D E T O R E S TA U R A N T S A N D G O O D F O O D I N T H E B AY A R E A
EDITED BY CHRISTINA MUELLER
What’s Hot
Brunch Never Gets Old
If the last two years have taught us anything, it’s that eating outside is an act of community support — and brunch is one of the best meals to enjoy outdoors. Brunch has always been a noun, but with so many restaurants serving up delicious daytime eats, there are even more opportunities to turn it into a verb. How will you brunch? We’ve got ideas. BY CHRISTINA MUELLER perfect for pairing with a strawberry mimosa. 655 Del Ganado Rd, San Rafael; 415.991.5103; monkskettle.com RH Marin American classics define the brunch menu at the rooftop restaurant atop the shop’s extensive galleries. Truffled grille cheese is popular for all RH Marin
the right reasons, and the burger boasts fries that are crisp outside and soft inside. Regulars shake things up with the lobster roll. Tossed with Old Bay, chives and just enough mayo, the chunky crustacean sits inside a toasted hot dog roll slathered with butter that gives West Coast heft to an East Coast dish. 1750 Redwood Hwy, Corte Madera; 628.266.2040; rh.com Farm House Local David Monson’s OG breakfast and lunch café boasts a sweet patio and farm-to-table everything, including the gravlax atop the potato and celery root pancake. Cured in salt, sugar, dill and Grand Marnier, the preparation involves turning the fish e ery 12 hours for three days to achieve its stunning color and deeply fl vor-
WANT MORE? Find the hottest new places to eat, drink and brunch at marinmagazine.com/food-drink.
Farm House Local
ful flesh. “It s a labor of love and a test of one’s patience,” Monson says, a statement evident in every bite. 25 Ward St, Larkspur; 415.891.8577; farmhouselocal.com Barefoot Cafe Fans flock to ony Senehi’s all-day café for the soft frittata and towering Belgian waffle in equal measure The dish that wins our hearts, however, is the pear-almond pancake. Buttermilk adds zing to the batter that bubbles before Bosc pears and slivered almonds are layered in, boosting the pancake to 11. 1900 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, Fairfax; 415.460.2160; barefootcafe.com
Le Croissant Like a beacon for dinerstyle classics, this place, named for the French pastry, thrives on a busy street flan ed by autobody and tire shops. (There’s parking.) More bready than shattering, the croissants cradle everything from a tuna
melt to a breakfast sandwich and easily cover half of a diner-size plate. Our money is on the breakfast burrito smothered in red and green New Mexicanstyle chili sauce. 150 Bellam Blvd, San Rafael; 415.456.0164; lecroissantonbellam.com
Monk’s Kettle
Christina Mueller is Marin Magazine’s dining editor. Her work has appeared in Sunset magazine, Edible Communities, Eater and others. She volunteers with California State Parks and at her childrens’ schools.
COURTESY OF FARM HOUSE LOCAL (GRAVLAX)
Monk’s Kettle The wide, shaded patio is popular on sunny afternoons for a draft kölsch and a damn good chicken sandwich. Mornings call for the black sesame chia bowl and coffee or a stack of mochi pancakes. Made with glutinous rice flou , the texture is similar to marshmallow — soft with a slight chew — and
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Dine A N I N S I D E R ’ S G U I D E TO R E S TAU R A N T S I N M A R I N
EDITED BY CHRISTINA MUELLER
EVERY TIME YOU SHOP SMALL AND SUPPORT A LOCAL BUSINESS, YOU ’RE BOOSTING THE MARIN COMMUNIT Y. E AT LOCAL TO HELP SUSTAIN THE RESTAUR ANTS AND GATHERING PL ACES THAT AMPLIF Y YOUR SOCIAL NET WORK . NEW PL ACES TO TRY INCLUDE STARBIRD IN CORTE MADER A AND CAMINO ALTO IN SAN FR ANCISCO.
CORTE MADER A Amy's Drive Thru American Known for salads, veggie burgers and grilled cheese sandwiches, the organic fast food concept that originated in Santa Rosa is best experienced via the namesake drive-through, but is just as fun to eat on the colorful, shaded patio. The burrito is even available gluten-free. 5839 Paradise Drive, 415.737.0655 Blue Barn Gourmet American The first Marin outpost of the S.F.-based eatery has proven very popular. The menu includes customizable salads, toasted sandwiches, soups and more, prepared with locally harvested produce and proteins. A group order takeout menu is available. 335 Corte Madera Town Center, 415.927.1104 Burmatown Asian The small home-style Asianfusion restaurant offers fresh, light meals like tea leaf salad and basil shrimp stir-fry, as well as curries, coconut rice and chili-garlic green beans. Extra heat optional. Place takeout orders by 1 p.m. via phone or text 415.985.5060 to ensure item availability. 60 Corte Madera Ave, 415.945.9096
Cafe Verde Californian This revamped cafe offers Neapolitan pizza, pasta, risotto and salads nearly all day long. Enjoy any of these items inside or out on the patio along with local and international wines and beers. 502 Tamalpais Drive, 415.927.1060
a plethora of pasta options. To add to your dining experience, order the table-side prepared Caesar salad. Not looking for a meal? Enjoy a drink and hear local musicians at the well-known piano bar. 1585 Casa Buena Drive, 415.924.2081
veg by offering a variety of hot sandwiches and burgers, entree salads, bowls, home-style plates, shareable sides, organic teas and housemade desserts prepared only with vegetables, fruits, grains and nuts. 147 Corte Madera Town Center, 415.945.8954
Fieldwork Brewing Pizza The outpost of the original Berkeley draft house features pizzas, salads and shareable bites (think crispy Brussels sprouts and meatballs) to round out the day’s list of fresh IPAs, pilsners and more. 107 Corte Madera Town Center, 415.891.8273
Pig In a Pickle American Fresh and locally sourced brisket, pork, ribs and chicken get star billing at this Town Center eatery. Sauces are crafted to represent various American barbecue regions, including Memphis and South Carolina. House-made pickles, buns and sausages will keep you coming back. 341 Corte Madera Town Center, 415.891.3265
Zinz Wine Bar Californian Locals pop by the petite wine bar for its cozy, sophisticated atmosphere and an eclectic array of boutique wines, craft beer and light appetizers. An expansive outdoor seating area is partially covered and heat lamps warm the quaint neighborhood space. They also host events and happy hours. 207 Corte Madera Ave, 415.927.9466
Flores Mexican With an emphasis on regional Mexican dishes and flavors sourced from family recipes, the menu is based on California seasonality and revolves around gluten-free masa. The daily-made tortillas are featured in dishes such as duck confit enchiladas, Dungeness crab tostadas and chilibraised beef short ribs. There’s a full bar to boot and everything is easily enjoyed on their large, heated patio. 301 Corte Madera Town Center, 415.500.5145 Marin Joe’s Italian A Marin mainstay for over 50 years, with a menu of soups, salads, seafood, mesquite-grilled or sautéed meats and
RH Marin American Ride up the golden-hued elevator to the top floor to a restaurant bedecked in RH style and linger over a shaved vegetable salad, a truffled grilled cheese sandwich on Panorama Bakery sourdough or a namesake RH Burger. This rooftop sunroom and outdoor lounge boasts glass ceilings and walls for an epic view of Mt. Tam and a feeling of floating above it all. 1750 Redwood Highway at The Village, 628.266.2040 Veggie Grill Vegan/ Vegetarian A fastcasual restaurant chain that celebrates all things
FAIRFA X Amelie French Stop in for a quintessential French breakfast of coffee and a croissant at this outpost of the original San Francisco wine bar. Stay to enjoy plates of Cal-French escargot with garlic butter, salad Niçoise with pickled egg or slow-baked steelhead with persillade and radishes at lunch and dinner and an extensive French wine list. A petite street-side patio features dining atop wine barrels. 71 Broadway, 628.253.5161
Barefoot Cafe American Tony Senehi prepares fresh California dishes with local organic ingredients from sustainable sources. A popular brunch spot, this quaint restaurant in the heart of Fairfax serves locals and tourists everything from eggs Benedict to panna cotta. 1900 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, 415.460.2160 Fradelizio's Italian Fradelizio’s blends Northern Italian with California-inspired healthy fare, featuring natural beef and freerange chicken dishes. 35 Broadway, 415.459.1618 Sorella Caffe Italian Run by sisters Sonia and Soyara, Sorella, which means “sister” in Italian, serves fresh Italian with a northern influence. Customer favorites include the cioppino, butternut squash ravioli and Pollo alla Sorella. Another highlight is the giant wheel of Grana Padano cheese. 107 Bolinas Rd, 415.258.4520 Split Rock Tap & Wheel American The former Fairfax Cyclery space, which had been operating as just a bike shop, has been reconfigured and now also serves food and an assortment of beers. Menu items include pizzas and sandwiches, as well as snacks like citrus-marinated olives or house-made pickles. Beers on tap are almost all exclusively
local favorites. 2020 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, 415.721.7644 Stillwater Californian Fairfax native Margaret Ruiz and her life and business partner, David, joined forces with chef Cameron Myers to bring the bounty of the county to the table. Appetizers and salads feature local cheeses, oysters and produce, while the cheeseburger with Stemple Creek beef topped with house-cured pork belly has already developed a cult following. Two patios provide ample outdoor eating space. 23 Broadway, 415.524.8478 The Lodge American The menu is designed to power up the many riders who swing by, featuring all-American eats like a breakfast burrito stuffed with eggs, spinach and salsa; share plates like a sausage board served with Lodge tots and slaw; and pour-over coffee and draft beer for riders and hikers alike. Beer, cider and wine are available to go in growlers and cans and can be sipped in the backyard where shaded picnic tables await. 1573 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, 415.456.8084 Village Sake Japanese Lucky for Fairfax, beloved former Sushi Ran chef Scott Whitman opened an izakaya, a Japanese-style
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Out & About / DINE Don Antonio Italian Antonio Volpicelli, of the former Don Antonio in Tiburon, runs this location in Larkspur. Choose from standbys like gorgonzola gnocchi, veal parmesan and carbonara and an extensive wine list, all served either inside or out on the spacious patio. Look for the Maine lobster special on Tuesdays. 455 Magnolia Ave, 415.924.3332
Patio seating at Paseo, Mill Valley
community pub. In the compact space with six outdoor tables, you’ll find sushi and skewers, salads and small plates, plus great sake and craft beers. The daily waitlist opens online at 5 p.m. The adjoining sake bar, Sake Bin, has a separate menu and is currently closed, but takeout bento boxes are available. 19 Bolinas Rd, 415.521.5790 Way Station American Barbecue from a trailer embedded into the wall is the main attraction at this mechanic’s shopturned-eatery, where tall sliding windows frame washed concrete floors and a craft beer garden with fire pit. The ‘cue gets all the love but salads, flatbread pizzas and a wide selection of tapped and bottled beers plus wines round out the menu. It’s also kid- and dog-friendly with outdoor seating. 2001 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, 415.300.3099
GREENBR AE AND KENTFIELD Guesthouse Californian Jared Rogers, the former executive chef of Picco, heads up the kitchen, partnering with mixologist Dustin Sullivan on this 110-seat space. Look for well-executed California cuisine, such as mini lobster rolls or kurobuta pork chops with crispy potatoes, or savor a Slingshot at the bustling bar. 850 College Ave, Kentfield, 415.419.5101 Half Day Cafe American Tucked away in a setting of intertwining ivy and large open windows, this cafe is the quintessential breakfast nook and is also open for brunch and lunch, including coffee drinks, pastries and much more. Enjoy a casual daytime meal inside or out on the patio. 848 College Ave, Kentfield, 415.459.0291 Sweetgreen Californian No matter if your order is one of the signature plant-forward warm bowls like curry cauliflower, a super green
goddess salad or chicken pesto parm (if meat is a must), all are packaged in sustainable ready-togo packaging that makes it easy to enjoy a fast and fresh meal inside, on the umbrella-shaded patio or to go. 284 Bon Air Center, Greenbrae, 415.874.0012
L ARK SPUR Backstage Californian The U-shaped bar makes a comfortable, sociable setting for wine tasting, light appetizers (warmed nuts, artichoke dip) and small plates (avocado toast, charcuterie boards) in downtown Larkspur. Or, nab a seat on the patio to enjoy flights of exclusive picks from small-scale California vineyards on a sunny day. 295 Magnolia Ave, 415.898.6778 DJ's Chinese Cuisine Chinese A great place to satisfy a craving for wonton soup before a show at the Lark Theater; the outdoor patio is a scene-stealer in itself. Lunch is popular here, too. 435 Magnolia Ave, 415.924.0717
Emporio Rulli Italian Renowned for its Northern Italian specialties and treats, the Larkspur location (there are four others in the Bay Area) is a favored spot for lunch as well as coffee and a sweet treat. 464 Magnolia Ave, 415.924.7478 Farm House Local Californian A downtown Larkspur gem that is sure to please with simple, healthy food in a warm, cozy atmosphere, both indoors and on the covered patio. The seasonal menu, inspired by American classics, includes biscuits and gravy; a “BLAT” (with avocado) sandwich; and a daily fluffy omelet stuffed with local meats, vegetables and artisanal cheeses. 25 Ward St, 415.891.8577 Farmshop American Located in the Marin Country Mart, Farmshop Marin is a top spot for people watching and earns raves for its avocado hummus and Neapolitan-style pizzas pulled from the beehive oven. Indoor and outdoor seating available. 2233 Larkspur Landing Circle, 415.755.6700 Hog Island Oyster Co. Seafood The fullservice Marin Country Mart location features a full bar with seasonal
cocktails, beer and wine and the same bay-to-bar philosophy as the Tomales Bay original. Sit inside or at one of the picnic tables facing the Bay before satiating that oyster craving; then, check the day’s menu to see what was most recently pulled from Marin’s waters before deciding what else to eat. 2401 Larkspur Landing Circle, 628.253.5905 Left Bank Restaurant French This authentically classic brasserie has been serving the Larkspur community for more than two decades. Whether on the patio, at the European-style bar or in the casually elegant main dining room with a huge fireplace, it’s a fun and French downtown experience. The restaurant is also hosting two “virtual” restaurant concepts for takeout and delivery only, a Mac ’n Cheese Shop and Lito’s Cocina Hispana (Spanish/Mexican). 507 Magnolia Ave, 415.927.3331 Perry's American Perry's on Magnolia has the quintessentially American fare, bustling bar and warm personality the San Francisco original has always been famous for. Along with three separate dining rooms in a historic building, there’s outdoor dining under the twinkling lights on the patio and in the redwood grove. 234 Magnolia Ave, 415.927.1877 Picco Californian Popular since its inception, Picco has a seasonally driven menu featuring items such as risotto (made every half hour), mesquite octopus tostada and butterscotch pot de creme that
keep attracting return visits. The warm wood and brick interior is fronted by a popular, six seat bar. 320 Magnolia Ave, 415.924.0300 R'noh Thai Thai This cozy place with a patio by the Corte Madera Creek has a reputation for fresh flavors. It’s all here, from curries and Thai barbecue to noodle dishes and the classic tom kha (coconut lemongrass soup). For an indulgent treat, try the fried sweet potato appetizer. 1000 Magnolia Ave, 415.925.0599 Rustic Bakery Californian The Maringrown bakery is known and loved the world over: Pope Francis famously requested Rustic Bakery flatbread and crostini when he visited the U.S. in 2015. Organic bread, croissants and pastries baked fresh each morning and salads, sandwiches, and soups for lunch make Rustic a local staple. Marin Country Mart, 2017 Larkspur Landing Circle, 415.461.9900
MILL VALLEY Cafe Del Soul Californian Healthy options become addictive at this eatery that has locations in both Tam Junction and San Rafael. Once you stop in for the deliciously fresh quinoa wrap, you’ll want to return to try the chipotle rice bowl. A casual lunch spot and great for takeout, Cafe del Soul also serves smoothies and pressed juices. 247 Shoreline Hwy, 415.388.1852 Equator Coffees American Mill Valley boasts two Equator Coffee locations. At Tam Junction's Proof
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Lab, look for bacon and cheddar, steak and egg and vegetarian breakfast burritos made in house. Downtown's spot, kittycorner from Depot Plaza, serves up avocado toast, breakfast sandwiches and those famous gluten-free waffles. Both locations feature Johnny Doughnuts, Friday– Sunday and online ordering. 244 Shoreline Hwy and 2 Miller Ave, 415.383.4200 Floodwater Californian Sip a “Gold Rush” (Old Forester bourbon, local honey, lemon) at the room-length bar while noshing on pork belly steamed buns or dive into Shorty's Tall Reuben in the TV-free front room. Up the coziness factor in the back room as you tuck into a margherita pizza cooked in the wood-fired oven at this spacious Tam Valley/Manzanita tavern. The patio features fire pits. 152 Shoreline Hwy, 415.843.4545 Gravity Tavern American With ingredients suited to reflect modern tastes, American classics like grilled chicken Waldorf salad with pickled grapes; lobster roll with toasted challah and veggie slaw; and a land and sea pasta with house-made egg pasta, pork belly and crab, may have also been familiar fare for passengers of the Mt. Tam gravity car for which this saloon was named. Enjoy them on the popular patio. 38 Miller Ave, 415.888.2108 Grilly’s Mexican If you’re looking for a quick, fresh meal, Grilly’s is a no-brainer. Enjoy burritos, tacos or the popular chicken taco salad at lunch or dinner on their covered deck
and you have a straightforward lunch or dinner to please the whole family. 493 Miller Ave, 415.381.3278
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Hook Fish Co Seafood The indoor, woodceilinged dining room feels like a boat’s galley, and the spot’s popular outdoor beer garden adjacent to Mill Valley’s Proof Lab at Tam Junction has 13 taps, but the draw at this counter-service joint is the seafood. The transparent supply chain means you can enjoy the poke, fish and chips or fish tacos secure in the knowledge of exactly where and on what boat your meal came from. 254 Shoreline Hwy Joe’s Taco Lounge Mexican Joe’s serves up fish tacos (which it can never take off the menu), burritos and enchiladas as well as more unusual items like Mexican pizza and tofu tostada. A colorful interior and quick service make this a fun, easy stop. If you stay, grab a few of the hundreds of hot sauce bottles from the wall and find your perfect match. Cup of Joe's coffee cart, out front every morning, serves lattes, Mexican hot chocolate and burritos to go. 382 Miller Ave, 415.383.8164
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La Ginestra Italian House made Neapolitan cuisine, a familiar wait staff, and warm hospitality have made this restaurant a family favorite since 1964. While this old-school eatery is known for traditional pastas and pizzas, a daily menu of seasonal favorites attracts a hip crowd. The adjourning Sorrento Bar serves up cocktails, amari, and a selection of fine Italian wines.
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Out & About / DINE 127 Throckmorton Ave, 415.388.0224 Le Marais French This Parisian-style French bakery with three San Francisco locations now calls Marin home. An assortment of takeand-bake favorites like cinnamon buns, butter croissants and kouign amann; freshly baked items; and a breakfastall-day menu are popular. There is quiche and salad at lunch, but those in the know opt for avocado croissant toast, chicken paillarde with fresh herbs and the Chartreuse cappuccino. 250 E. Blithedale, 415.888.3695 Paseo Californian The restaurant along “el paseo” exudes the same charm as its predecessors with an updated, New American menu from chef Brandon Breazeale. Look for seasonal takes on seafood and meaty proteins, like chard-wrapped, oil-poached halibut with burnt shallot puree and maitake mushrooms or duck breast au jus with Brussels sprouts. Sip a classic cocktail in the Paseo bar or savor an all-American dessert of peanut butter semifreddo in one of the inviting exposed brick and wood dining rooms. 17 Throckmorton Ave, 415.888.3907 Piatti Ristorante and Bar Italian A new fireplace lounge and open-concept format invites lingering over refreshed menu items, such as house-made ravioli with lemon cream and citrus gremolata, roasted mushroom pizza with taleggio fonduta and black truffle oil, and roasted salmon with artichokes and Calabrian chili in expanded indoor
spaces and on the patio. 625 Redwood Hwy, 415.380.2525 Piazza D’Angelo Italian Family owned for over 35 years, Piazza D’Angelo evokes a traditional trattoria dining experience. Enjoy a variety of pastas, meat and seafood dishes, wood-fired pizzas and gluten-free offerings, all house-made with organic and locally sourced ingredients. A back patio and newer front patio provide ample outdoor dining space. 22 Miller Ave, 415.388.2000 Pizza Antica Italian Besides its popular thin-crust pizzas, this Strawberry Village restaurant serves seasonal dishes like Tuscan fried chicken with spicy honey, burrata with crushed sweet peas and toasted focaccia, and ricotta gnocchi with sun-dried tomato cream. There’s ample space to enjoy your meal in the front courtyard, too. 800 Redwood Hwy, 415.383.0600 Playa Mexican With a chef from Mexico City, Playa's food offers traditional dishes with modern flavors and presentations. A little gem salad sparkles with tomatillo dressing and enchiladas shine from a glossy coating of house made black mole and micro greens. The bar highlights exceptional tequilas and mezcals but the “el slushie” and house margarita have legions of fans and are perfect for sipping on the large, heated back patio. Weekend lunch is available. 41 Throckmorton Ave, 415.384.8871
Robata Grill and Sushi Japanese Robata translates as “by the fireside”; fittingly, many dishes here are cooked on an open fire and served in appetizer-size portions to pass around the table. Try the grilled rice balls and beef kushi to get a sense of the smoky flavors. Or, simply order your own sushi or entree from the menu to enjoy on the patio or in the traditional dining room. 591 Redwood Hwy, 415.381.8400
The Junction American Owner Dez Fielder's devotion to microproduced and local beer is evident from the 30 taps and a robust can program, including Woodfour New Ridge Lager, and experimental bottlings, like Barebottle Brewing’s Tangberry Typhoon, all easy to pair with pizzas from Pizzahacker. Grab your fleece to sip one by a fire pit on the huge backyard patio. 226 Shoreline Hwy, 415.888.3544
Shoreline Coffee Shop American Hidden behind Good Earth in a parking lot at Tam Junction, this coffee shop is a vintage diner with a small-town feel. Featuring a mix of Mexican and traditional breakfast fare hits, the comfort food spot is gussied up with organic and local goodies like eggs from Tennessee Valley neighbor Woolley Egg Ranch. Try them in the roto–soft eggs and house-made chorizo with French fries — or a classic diner dish, two eggs your way. You can get gluten-free bread from Green Gulch, too. 221 Shoreline Hwy, 415.388.9085
The Rock & Rye American Bay Area chef Rick Hackett designed the menu to feature South American and New Orleans-inspired dishes with a seasonal focus at Sweetwater Music Hall’s restaurant. An extensive collection of whiskeys and craft cocktails pays tribute to independent music venues and the 50-seat outdoor patio was redone to reflect how we dine today. 19 Corte Madera Ave, 415.388.3850
The Depot Café & Bookstore Californian The former railroad depot turned all-day café and bookstore at the heart of downtown Mill Valley is back with expanded outdoor seating and firepits. The kitchen, helmed by chef Mary Pult, offers the same counter service model as before and a veg-forward menu that tilts towards the Mediterranean with bespoke pastries from Sausalito’s Cibo Bakery. 87 Throckmorton, 415.888.3648
Thep Lela Thai The kee mao noodles, pad Thai, and fresh rolls stuffed with beets and herbs have a dedicated following, as does the extensive bar menu (try the Amazing mai tai) at this spot tucked away in the back of Strawberry Village. 615 Strawberry Village, 415.383.3444
NOVATO Active Culture Café American This all-day café serves up plantforward fare like a lentil burger with slaw and barbecue beet sauce or wholesome bowls of quinoa and veggies and a breakfast burrito stuffed with eggs, potatoes and cheese. All menu items can be customized to
suit dietary needs — just be sure to state your preference when ordering at the counter. 464 Ignacio Blvd, 415.475.1128 Ayawaska Peruvian This outpost of the Petaluma original fittingly fills the landmark space that once housed Hilltop 1892. A tight opening menu of regional classics includes lomo saltado and the country’s famous ceviches (try the a la Huancaina with the catch of the day) that will expand with the rollout of lunch service. Huge glass-paned doors in the front room slide open to reveal the view, and a beer garden out back is also planned. 850 Lamont Ave, 415.944.2066 Boca Pizzeria Italian Enjoy authentic pizza prepared with housepulled mozzarella and tomatoes imported from Italy, or go for a grilled rosemary chicken sandwich or the braised beef short rib pappardelle. 454 Ignacio Blvd, 415.883.2302 Chianti Cucina Italian This cozy eatery offers an array of Italian and American dishes, including a long list of pastas; try the house-made ravioli cooked up by chef Edgar DeLon. It's all available for takeout and drive-through via their app. 7416 Redwood Hwy, 415.878.0314 Cocina Antigua Latin American With a sign that’s hard to see from South Novato Boulevard, this family-style Central American restaurant and market serves meals that represent the Mayan culture and family meals of owners Mayra Ordoñez and Juan Cutz. Look for spices, beans and fresh
produce at the market and the region’s famous dishes — pupusas, tacos chapines and hilachas — as some of the daily offerings. 1559 South Novato Blvd., Suite J, 415.895.5960 Crave Californian Executive chef Christian Pulido serves up seasonally driven California cuisine on the shaded terrace and in a modern dining room, replete with George Nelson bubble lamps. Char siu octopus and a soba noodle salad push the flavor boundary while a CAB burger and halibut with corn pudding are instantly familiar. 340 Ignacio Blvd, 415.883.0901 Finnegan's Marin American The dark wood-paneled booths and high backs on bar stools mean it is easy to linger over Irish-inspired meals like corned beef and cabbage or nachos made with waffle fries instead of corn chips. They taste just as good on the heated outdoor patio. 877 Grant Ave, 415.899.1516 Hopmonk Tavern American The beer garden-style outdoor patio and live music keep fans coming back to this Novato brewhouse tucked into the Vintage Oaks Mall. And let’s not forget the ample selection of beers on tap. 224 Vintage Way, 415.892.6200 Jerrys Downtown BBQ American Southern flavors and plenty of smoked meats are highlights of an all-day menu that includes a classic BLT updated with house-smoked salmon or a barbecue plate with tri-tip and chicken. Brunch is available on the weekends
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Comforts Cafe American Established in 1986, Comforts has a cozy sit-down patio and serves breakfast, lunch and weekend brunch. A large takeout section offers a wide selection of house-made bakery
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Center Depot Street Food & Drinks Breakfast This tiny café sports a menu of macchiatos and espressos pulled from an authentic Italian espresso machine, but the sweet and savory bubble waffles (from a Hong Kong trend) and doughnuts are not to be missed. 1119 San Anselmo Ave, San Anselmo, 415.450.1100
Crown & Crumpet American A tidy back patio shaded by roses and cascading pear trees is ideally suited for sipping a pot of loose leaf tea, cup of pourover coffee or a hot chocolate at this outpost of the Japantown original. Savory croissants and crumpets are just part of the breakfast menu, and a traditional sausage roll and chicken potpie are highlights at lunch. A signature afternoon tea service is available on weekends. 22 Ross Common, Ross, 415.771.4252
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The Speakeasy American There’s nothing like the comfort of a solid burger and beer when you’re kicking back and watching the game. In addition to the 10 beers on tap, cocktail inspo ranges from the 1920s to the 2020s. A new menu includes buffalo chicken lollipops and mini street tacos to savor on the patio. 504 Alameda del Prado, 415.883.7793
Creekside Pizza & Tap Room American A perennial Best of the County winner known for their artisan pizzas, hearty sandwiches, and flavorful pastas and salads, Creekside offers plentiful glutenfree and vegan options, too. Their copper, 40-handle selection of craft beers makes a beloved local pizza joint a destination for fresh beer in equal measure. There’s even gluten-free beer and kombucha pulled straight from the taps. 638 San Anselmo Ave, San Anselmo, 415.785.4450
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Marvin’s Restaurant American This place, known for “Best Breakfast in Novato,” also serves up generous portions for lunch. The corned beef hash, Benedicts and superb service draw a consistent crowd yearround. 1112 Grant Ave, 415.892.4482
items, seasonal salads, soups, sandwiches and entrees for dinner at home. Besides the famous Chinese chicken salad, other winners are the stuffed pecancrusted French toast, chicken okasan (nicknamed “Crack Chicken” by fans) and roast chicken enchiladas. 335 San Anselmo Ave, San Anselmo, 415.454.9840
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(breakfast sandwich, Swedish pancake stack) and there is picnic-style shaded seating outside, too. 7380 Redwood Blvd, 415.895.5592
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and wood-fired pizzas strike a balance between southern Italy and northern California. Full bar and cocktails are available to go or enjoy a tipple on premise inside or at the new heated parklet. 510 San Anselmo Ave, San Anselmo, 415.454.2942 D.G. Cafe American Owner and town resident Clive Nisse’s sliver of a restaurant is built for how we eat now. Sandwiches are named for local landmarks (Mt. Baldy, Creek Park), salads are customizable and the picnic packages are, yes, designed for eating outside. A hot espresso bar and pastries are available all day and a takeout window makes to go orders a snap. 411 San Anselmo Ave, San Anselmo, 415.295.7500 Flour Craft Bakery American Along with artisan gluten-free and an assortment of vegan pastries, breads and special-occasion cakes, this petite cafe serves a
lunch menu of so-called fancy toast (avocado, ricotta) and big green salads with seasonal flair. Customer favorites include oatmeal chocolate chip cookies, decadent cinnamon rolls, flourless hazelnut brownies and the bakery’s signature granola. 702 San Anselmo Ave, San Anselmo, 415.453.3100 Insalata’s Mediterranean Awardwinning chef Heidi Krahling’s restaurant has featured soulful Mediterranean fare for 24-plus years. Dinner favorites include cataplana with mussels and chorizo, Middle Easterninspired vegetarian platter, Moroccan lamb flatbread, house-made pastas and of course, the fattoush salad. An expansive takeout counter offers a wide range of selections for family meals, celebrations or a quick lunch option. 120 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, San Anselmo, 415.457.7700
Jillie’s Wine Bar Californian A rotating list of more than 20 globally sourced and Californian wines and a few beers are on tap at owner Jill CordovaHolt’s eponymously named bar and retail shop in the Red Hill Shopping Center. Savor small bites like a cheese and charcuterie board or black truffle potato chips while sipping at one of the outdoor tables. 906 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, San Anselmo, 415.521.5500 Kientz Hall Californian Chef Gary Faulkner (Mark Restaurant by Jean-Georges, the Pebble Beach Company), helms a kitchen where live-fire cooking is the focus. Tri-tip or rotisserie chicken with caper salsa verde can be paired with roasted eggplant with harissa and olives or carrots with spiced tahini-yogurt and dill. Sit inside the sunny atrium or enjoy the views of Mt. Tam on the rooftop terrace. 625 San Anselmo Ave, San Anselmo, 415.991.1502
Madcap Californian Chef Ron Siegel's contemporary art-filled space is known for its urban edge. The vegetable-centric menu, available as a tasting menu, incorporates seafood and Japanese techniques in colorful dishes like trout with baby bok choi, purple daikon and dashi that are bold, balanced and bright. The restaurant earned a Michelin onestar rating in 2019 and again in 2021. 198 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, San Anselmo, 415.453.9898 M.H. Bread and Butter Californian A one-stop shop for everything from coffee and pastries to artisan bread, with a seasonal brunch menu. High-quality ingredients and a comfortable atmosphere make M.H. worth checking out. A “front porch” patio bustles during the morning hours. 101 San Anselmo Ave, San Anselmo, 415.755.4575 The Baan Thai Thai Known for its mango sticky rice, crispy corn
Tony Tutto's Pizza After nine years in Mill Valley, owner Greg DiGiovine relocated to Ross, bringing his familiar farm-to-table pies and kid- and dog-friendly vibe to downtown. The vegan pies are still here and a gluten-free crust is available. 16 Ross Common, Ross, 415.383.8646 Valenti & Co. Italian The bright yet cozy indoor space and warmly lit back patio are ideal environments for authentic Italian dishes made with local ingredients. The menu changes daily but look for the carpaccio of beef, the pan-seared Pekin duck and chef Valenti's famous tower of triple chocolate love at dessert. A seat at the chef’s table gives a prime view of the open kitchen. 337 San Anselmo Ave, San Anselmo, 415.454.7800
SAN R AFAEL Arizmendi Bakery Californian A workerowned bakery cafe, Arzimendi prides itself on high-quality local ingredients. Visit Wednesday–Sunday for coffee and pastries, breakfast and lunch sandwiches, and artisan sourdough pizza. If you don't want to wait in line, order online for
next day pick-up. 1002 Fourth St, 415.456.4093 Boiadeirus Steak Brazilian The picanha is the signature cut at this Brazilian-style steakhouse where gauchos carrying grilled meats on long swords cruise the room, offering portions of up to 10 meats. A huge salad bar offers everything from feijoada and potato salad to yucca and deviled eggs. 925 Fourth St, 628.253.5854 Brazilian Breads Brazilian Brazilian street eats and the country’s famed pao de quejo are on offer at this catering and baking hub and take-out shop in San Rafael’s Canal neighborhood. Naturally gluten-free cheesy bread and tapioca crepes pair well with Brazil’s native açai bowls, coffee and desserts or build your own sandwich with linguica or roasted eggplant. 20 Medway Rd, 510.647.8894
Bruno’s Italian One part market, two parts deli and cafe just off the downtown strip features all things Italian. Sandwiches, salads and entrees–Il Padrino (aka The Godfather), Mamma's Meatballs– and a range of imported Italian packaged goods, wines and coffee/ espresso are available. 1304 Second St, 415.785.7487 Casa Mañana Mexican Owner Margarita Almenderes has been running the original Casa Mañana since 1979 in an off-the-beaten track San Rafael locale that locals adored for it’s ample patio seating and “homemade everything”
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cakes and The Baan Thai salad, this restaurant reopened in 2020 with a new owner, a new menu and a new heated outdoor seating area. Warm up with new menu items like fresh spring rolls and steamed dumplings, or old favorites such as the tom kha soup. The commitment to serving fresh, local and seasonal food is unchanged. 726 San Anselmo Ave, San Anselmo, 415.457.9470
Dinner fare at Fort Point Beer Company, San Francisco
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We Believe Superior Housekeeping Is Essential approach. Her new spot in downtown San Rafael is sure to draw new audiences for the all-day breakfast menu (those huevos Cubanos aren’t going to eat themselves), burritos and mole enchiladas. 711 D St, 415.456.7345 LaVier Cuisine Latin American Free-range chicken and sustainable seafood plus vegan and vegetarian dishes are the focus at this all-organic Latin fusion eatery run by Mexico City native, Gabriela and her husband Guillermo, who hails from Yucatán. Try the top-selling pescado asado, puffy fish tacos with slaw and black beans, or chile rellenos. The colorful street-side dining patio, bedecked with palms, feels downright tropical. 1025 C St, 415.295.7990
And for 35 years, The Cooperative Cleaning Company has met this need for the Southern Marin & East Bay Counties’ most discerning clients. CCC delivers exceptional service with a highly reliable, steady staff of professionals whose compensation, platinum level health, dental and vision care, and PTO benefits exceed industry average. Licensed. Bonded. Insured. Email: CoopCleaning@gmail.com
Web: CooperativeCleaning.com
Phone: 628-286-3700
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Michael’s Sourdough American The bread is made on site and is said to have magical qualities. It better, as it is the only holder for the overstuffed wonders served at this Best of the County winner. Fans return over and over to the San Rafael and Novato locations for their faves, ordered by number, then swoon over the huge sandos piled with meat, cheese and enough shredded lettuce to ooze out the sides and onto your lap. 999 Andersen Drive, Suite 165, 415.485.0964
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Menya Shono Japanese Noodles from ramen master Tomoharu Shono are made in-house, the flour ground on a Japanese stone mill in the kitchen. Designed exclusively for the San Rafael location, toripaitan uses chicken broth instead of the traditional pork, but traditionalists can get Shono’s Marin-influenced version of Shoyu and matcha ramen, too. A small patio is shielded from the marine layer’s breezes. 908 Fourth St, 415.295.7112
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Magnolia Park Kitchen American This American bistro features lots of farm-fresh salads (quinoa with cranberry and carrot) and sandwiches (Cubano, Reuben) to choose from. The heated, partially covered outdoor patio is well suited to sipping a glass of wine or enjoying a burger or a signature
McInnis Park Golf Club Restaurant American Grab a meal prepared by chef Chris Harman before or after hitting the driving range (or even without picking up a club). Outdoor seating is popular, as is the full bar, with a selection of premium Scotches, small-batch bourbons and more than 50 wines from California vineyards. McInnis Park, 415.491.5959
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Lou’s Takeaway American Bicyclists returning from a ride along San Rafael’s Lucas Valley Road are in on the not-so-secret eats from Anthony (Lou) Rizzi’s petite restaurant. Though the menu changes frequently, look for favorites like chilled chicken noodles with roasted peanuts and pickled long beans, spicy honey-glazed fried chicken, and pork belly with black vinegar caramel sauce. 621A Del Ganado Rd, San Rafael, 415.226.7994
fried chicken bomb sandwich with firecracker aioli and serrano pickle slaw. 1016 Court St, 415.521.5591
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Out & About / DINE Monk’s Kettle American Like the original in San Francisco, Christian Albertson’s restaurant in the shopping center kitty-corner from the Terra Linda Pool serves quaffable beers (like Pliny the Elder on tap), burgers, and pub grub to match the suds. The Mission Fried Chicken has an ardent following but there are plenty of vegforward offerings, too. 655 Del Ganado Rd RangeCafe American The cuisine from chef Stephen Simmons is local; seasonal; made with naturally raised ingredients; and served in a casual, comfortable and refined setting, with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the grand Peacock Gap lawns. An inviting cafe at lunch with ice-cold lemonade and refreshing chardonnay makes a great dinner spot once the sun sets. 333 Biscayne Drive, 415.454.6450 Revel & Roost Californian The sunflower-bedecked tables hint at the Spanish and French flavors to come from the chef-driven, locally sourced menu at this corner spot in downtown San Rafael. Classic fried chicken is a must and is available in eight different combinations, but Mediterranean classics like paella, fresh seafood and signature flatbreads bring European and American flavors to the table indoors or on the covered heated patio. The full menu is also available across the street at California Gold and a limited menu is available at Libation Taproom. 901 B St, 415.870.9946 Shiro Kuma Japanese Shiro kuma, which
means polar bear, takes its inspiration from chef Yasuo Shigeyoshi’s childhood in a small rural town in the south of Japan and offers traditional-style sushi and wagyu A5 and Kobe beef to cook over ishiyaki grilling stones. Popular weekly specials include hamachi jalapeño and the omakase (chef’s choice) dinner. 1518 Fourth St, 415.295.7464 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 other fried plantain dishes, but anything tastes good with a dash of the signature hot sauce, also for sale by the bottle (as is the lemon-garlic salad dressing). It shares space with sister restaurant, Viqtor Cafe. 901 Lincoln Ave, 415.451.4765 State Room American State Room Brewery has ditched its former diner vibe in favor of a modern gastropub. All draft beers are made on site and are available in sizes from half pints to takehome growlers; beer flights are also available. The menu, created by Alex Stricker and Andrew Toy, changes seasonally and includes a burrata cheese BLT and sashimi-grade tuna poke. 1132 Fourth St, 415.295.7929 Sushi to Dai For Japanese Snagging a seat in this popular Fourth Street spot can be a challenge, but patience is rewarded with fresh sashimi and unique sushi rolls. 816 Fourth St, 415.721.0392
Taj of Marin Indian Both North and South Indian cuisine are offered here, with lunch specials and dinners that include goat curry, spinach, lentils and tandoori. 909 Fourth St, 415.459.9555 Uchiwa Ramen Japanese It has been seven years since Kevin Fong and Ben Yang opened Marin’s first ramen shop, and it has found a spot in the hearts of ramen lovers for its rich broths, fresh noodles and assortment of small plates. While the tonkatsu and gluten-free options remain popular, new items such as pan-fried ramen, vegan miso ramen and rice dishes meet a variety of needs. A petite patio offers outdoor seating. 821 B St, 415.524.2727 Vin Antico American Vin Antico, “where passion meets the plate,” serves seasonal market-inspired cuisine like stone-oven-baked flatbreads, handmade pastas and organic salads, all innovatively prepared. The kitchen is open to the dining room and there’s a full bar with artisan cocktails. 881 Fourth St, 415.721.0600 Viqtor Food Puerto Rican The latest spin-off of the Puerto Rican food empire owned by Victor Cielo and Sol Hernandez operates in the same dining space of the San Rafael original and is takeout only. Familyfriendly fare (spaghetti with garlicky shrimp, tacos with red sauce) and a pork rib sandwich cradled by the original restaurant’s famous tostones incorporate the broader flavors of the Caribbean. 902 Lincoln Ave, 415.737.0655
Vivalon's Jackson Cafe American The menu changes weekly to reflect the seasons, so today’s panko crusted crab cake with potato salad and coleslaw will give way to tomorrow’s bacon and tomato mac ’n’ cheese with Caesar salad at this spot near the San Rafael Transit Center. Daily soup and sandwich choices and the hamburger are also available. 930 Tamalpais Ave, 415.456.9062 VN Noodle & Grill Vietnamese Located in Montecito Plaza, the restaurant has a robust menu of standard Vietnamese fare, including a wide selection of rice plates, pho and of course, iced coffee. 421 Third St, 415.306.4299 Yet Wah Chinese Named for the founder’s wife (“Yet” refers to the moon, “Wah” to brightness), this beloved mainstay has a traditional Chinese menu and daily dim sum. Expect live music in the Kung Fu Lounge. 1238 Fourth St, 415.460.9883
SAUSALITO Angelino Restaurant Italian Multiple generations of the Arcona family create an authentic Italian eatery with handmade pastas and seasonal antipasti that has showcased the cuisine of the Campania region for more than 20 years. The newer Angelino Pastry Bar features classic croissants, focaccia and a raspberry-polenta pop tart, among other treats, with pickup from 8 a.m. 621 Bridgeway, 415.331.5225 Arawan Thai Thai Sure, this downtown favorite serves up popular dishes like pad Thai
and vegetarian Siamese rolls, but the menu runs deeper into regional Thai flavors with offerings like a fermented tea leaf salad and soft shell crab curry. 47 Caledonia St, 415.729.9395 Avatar’s Indian If you’re on the hunt for innovative, multi-culti Indian fare, head to Avatar’s. Sip masala chai sweetened with brown sugar before digging into Cajun-spiced shrimp on the heated and shaded patio. A curried sweet potato enchilada in the casual one-room restaurant makes a quick vegetarian lunch or dinner on the new patio. 2656 Bridgeway, 415.332.8083 Bar Bocce American Food just tastes better on a bayside patio with fire pits and a bocce ball court. Order one of the sourdough bread pizzas, a shredded kale salad and a glass of wine and you’ll see why this casual, beachy eatery, overseen by Robert Price of Mill Valley's Buckeye and Bungalow 44, has become a local favorite. 1250 Bridgeway, 415.331.0555 Copita Mexican Co-owner Joanne Weir and chef Daniel Tellez present fresh Mexican fare in the heart of downtown Sausalito. The ever-changing menu is 100 percent glutenfree, masa is prepared and pressed in house for each and every tortilla, and the in-house tequila bar serves more than 100 varieties, ideal for crafting your own margarita. Dine at the bar (when it is permitted again) or on the outdoor patio for great people watching. 739 Bridgeway, 415.331.7400
Dario’s Restaurant Italian Dario’s, a 40-year-old pizza joint, updated the menu with Mediterranean flair. In addition to the thin-crust pizzas, you can spice up an order of pepperoni 'za with items like lamb meatballs, chicken shawarma and falafel wraps. 2829 Bridgeway, 415.332.6636 Feng Nian Chinese This spacious popular hangout has served up wonton soup, potstickers and daily specials for nearly two decades. For an indulgent treat, order the Szechwan crispy calamari, honey-glazed walnut prawn or lemon chicken. At lunch, the spicy green bean chicken is a favorite of one of our staffers. A gluten-free menu is available. 2650 Bridgeway, 415.331.5300 Fish Seafood It has been said that this restaurant and fish market launched the sustainable seafood movement, making it the ultimate place for freshly caught, unobjectionable fare. Order any of the day's offerings — the menu changes daily but usually has a variation of fish tacos, ceviche and grilled fish of the day — then take in the bay views on the open-air deck. 350 Harbor Drive, 415.331.3474 Kitti’s Place Thai This home-style family-run restaurant has been in town for over 20 years. It features Californiainspired favorites like lettuce cups stuffed with chicken and almonds, soft spring rolls and a curried turkey burger. A patio out front gets midday sun, even in winter. 3001 Bridgeway, 415.331.0390
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29TH Murray Circle American Cavallo Point’s acclaimed restaurant features local, seasonal fare from chef Mike Garcia at lunch and dinner (grilled sumac salmon BLT, roasted chicken with lemon confit and sour cream potato puree). An extensive wine program means global offerings by the bottle or glass. Stop by Farley Bar for cocktails with a view and the same locally focused ethos. 601 Murray Circle, 415.339.4750 Poggio Italian Vitello sliced excruciatingly thin and topped with lemon and tonnato sauce is a singular dish in the hands of executive chef Benjamin Balesteri, who creates Northern Italian fare using local and Italian ingredients. The bar may be the most hopping in town and is recognized for its killer Negroni. Private dining rooms above the restaurant can accommodate larger parties (10 to 150 guests). 777 Bridgeway, 415.332.7771 Sausalito Equator American The transition of Cibo Bakery to Sausalito Equator, completed in 2019, means a coffee menu including Equator’s iconic drinks like the shakerato (coffee shaken with cream) and rotating, seasonally focused beverages. The veggie hash topped with a fried egg is insanely popular at breakfast, as are the pastries from Cibo Bakery, and pair beautifully with chai from San Rafael's Silk Roads. Locally sourced salads, sandwiches and paninis easily transition from breakfast to lunch. 1201 Bridgeway, 415.521.5770
Saylor’s Restaurant and Bar Mexican Chef/ owner Sean Saylor uses fresh local ingredients and seafood to create a distinctively Cabo combination of Californian and Mexican cuisine. That means polenta with green chili and mozzarella or a Caesar salad with ancho chili croutons and queso fresco. Choose from more than 200 varieties of tequilas that are even better when enjoyed in the private Cabo Wabo room, named for (and approved by) Mill Valley's own tequila master, Sammy Hagar. Sip and savor on the heated Agave Terrace out back where the vibe is as festive as inside. 2009 Bridgeway, 415.332.1512 Seafood Peddler Restaurant and Fish Market Seafood The fish is bought daily from local fishers, who are also restaurant patrons and make the bar scene one of the liveliest in town. (A separate, quieter dining room is often open as well.) The fish market features everything from cioppino and flash-fried Monterey Bay calamari to crab cakes and clam chowder by the pint. Recipes are adjusted to incorporate the freshest catch. 303 Johnson St, 415.332.1492 Spinnaker Seafood Chef Phil Collins excels at preparing seafood, and it shows in the beautifully plated presentations. Set right on the water with sweeping views of San Francisco, this romantic spot is great for an evening occasion. 100 Spinnaker Drive, 415.332.1500 The Trident Seafood Set in a turn-of-the-century building constructed for
ANNUAL
the San Francisco Yacht Club, this waterfront restaurant is a shooin for date night. The restaurant, a famous 1970s hangout, is now known for supporting local farmers, fishers and organic food producers in everything from its well-regarded cioppino to a Louie salad with crab or prawns and beer-battered fish and chips. 558 Bridgeway, 415.331.3232 Zalta Mediterranean The menu — with a wine and cocktail list to match¬ — reflects influences from Greece, Italy, Spain, the Middle East and France. The mezze plate is filled with muhammara, dolmas and an eggplant spread known as mutabal, while the kofta burger is topped with tzatziki and green zhug on a focaccia bun. All the share size plates can also be enjoyed at the bright blue and white bar. 39 Caledonia St, Sausalito, 415.887.9047
TIBURON Caffe Acri Italian The well-lit corner cafe in Tiburon is a go-to for bikers, city commuters and locals. Diners will find Italian roast espresso drinks, freshly baked pastries and eggs for breakfast and a selection of soups, salads and paninis for lunch. A market stacked with pantry items and coffee operates inside the café, and outdoor dining is available. 1 Main St, 415.435.8515 Luna Blu Italian Executive chef Renzo Azzarello serves Sicilian seafood and homemade pastas with a Californian touch. The seasonal menu incorporates fresh and organic produce,
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local naturally grown meat and poultry from small farms. The restaurant complies with Monterey Bay Aquarium Seafood Watch, so all the seafood is sustainable. A recent expansion tripled the size of the patio to accommodate more diners. In 2014, diners voted Luna Blu one of the Top 100 Neighborhood Gem restaurants in America. 35 Main St, 415.789.5844 Salt & Pepper American With its hardwood floors and blue-checkered tablecloths, the sun-filled, one-room restaurant is an area favorite. Scallops, ribeye steak, a beef burger and traditional crab cakes with jalapeño dipping sauce are some of the popular choices on the patio. 38 Main St, 415.435.3594
Sam’s Anchor Cafe American Reopened after an extensive remodel, Sam's boathouse feel and boat tie-ups remain intact, and spiffy white umbrellas and deck chairs line the expansive waterfront patio. All-day cocktails remain a fixture as does the signature cioppino, while offerings like crab toast, a roaming oyster cart and a raw bar reflect the menu's enduring seafood focus. 27 Main St, 415.435.4527 Squalo Vino Californian Fifteen wines by the glass, 90 by the bottle and a handful of local beers are available at this intimate wine bar and wine shop. Look for rare and hard-to-find bottles to enjoy onsite at one of the bistro tables or from a comfy, velvetlined club chair or to go. Plans are in the works for chef-prepared plates from Bungalow Kitchen
by Michael Mina, but for now, cheeseboards featuring Rustic Bakery crackers and Cowgirl Creamery’s Mt Tam and a “fish and chips" plate with caviar from nearby The Caviar Company are on hand. 34 Main St, 415.889.5585 The Caprice Italian Enhanced bay views from every seat are just one of many charms after an extensive remodel reworked the entire space. The revamped menu of wellcrafted comfort food from land (bone-in filet mignon, French onion omelet) and sea (gnocchi with crab, abalone dore) options features classic cocktails and a wine list that leans toward American, Italian and French bottlings. 2000 Paradise Drive, 415.435.3400
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Rancho Nicasio American Known for live music and an extensive menu featuring everything from crispy calamari to braised lamb shanks, Rancho Nicasio is open seven days a week, including brunch. Whatever you choose, a newly reconfigured outdoor area welcomes all with plenty of space between tables. 1 Old Rancheria Rd, Nicasio, 415.662.2219
The Caviar Co. American Strawberry resident Petra Bergstein expanded her San Francisco-based business with a downtown shop and restaurant dedicated to the briny delicacy. Caviar flights, along with Champagne by the glass or bottle and small plates like grilled cheese with truffles, are available to enjoy in their tasting room or to take home. 46A Main St, 415.889.5168 Tiburon Tavern American Renzo and Crystal Azzarello of nearby Luna Blu took the reins in August for the Tiburon Tavern bar and restaurant with Chef Babak Nasser on board to handle the flow from breakfast and brunch through dinner. The same wide patio is back in service, too. 1651 Tiburon Blvd, 415.435.3133
WEST MARIN Cafe Reyes Pizza Though there’s no oyster pizza on the menu, a short menu of bivalves and Neapolitan-style pies at this cozy spot means the brick oven is a hub of activity. Margherita with handcrushed San Marzano tomatoes is a classic, but the Farallon with crimini mushrooms and pepperoni is equally popular. 11101 California One, Point Reyes Station, 415.663.9493 Dillon Beach Coastal Kitchen Californian Dillon Beach Resort’s eatery, located west of Tomales, offers seasonal coastal cuisine like local line-caught fish and chips, classic clam chowder and Stemple Creek burger. The accompanying Dillon Beach General Store also features Double 8 Dairy soft serve ice
cream and a local selection of wines and beers. 1 Beach Ave, Dillon Beach, 707.878.3030 Due West at Olema House Californian The dark blue walls accented with recessed golden light give the refreshed restaurant-cum-saloon at Olema House a modern feel. The menu, including a burger, linguini and clams, and a chopped salad, skews all-day casual and speaks to the inn and restaurant’s crossroads locale. 10005 Highway 1, Olema, 415.663.1264 Point Reyes Roadhouse American Executive chef Christofer Gutierrez has plans for a bakery program and a backyard beer garden, but for now, look for California cuisine with Latin American flair for three meals a day (Heart’s Desire mussels, Chimney Rock ribeye) and lighter
Saltwater Oyster Depot Seafood A seat at the room-length bar or on the patio at this snug spot on Tomales Bay’s west shore can be tough to snag on a busy summer weekend, but oysters pulled straight from the bay moments before, served broiled and on the half shell, are worth the wait. Locally sourced ingredients get equal billing in dishes like halibut crudo and a lamb burger. 12781 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, Inverness, 415.669.1244 Sir & Star at Hotel Olema Californian The historic inn is now a roadhouse-style restaurant featuring rustic decor and a menu with just about everything sourced from Marin. Try the house-made bread and honey butter, the kale Caesar and the stuffed quail, then come back and work your way through the ever-changing menu. Private parties only. 10000 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, Olema, 415.663.1034
SF AND EAST BAY Baia Italian The global plant-based SoCal hospitality brand Matthew Kenney Cuisine planted a flag in San Francisco’s Hayes Valley neighborhood (in the former Jardiniere space) with an Italian comfort food menu (think meatballs, pizza and lasagna). The redone interior welcomes guests to dine in just steps from Symphony Hall. 300 Grove St, San Francisco, 415.861.0625 Barrio Latin American With Latin American flair, executive chef Tim Milojevich prepares foods of the so-called Latin diaspora designed for a local audience. Fresh heirloom blue corn tortillas are a worthy partner with the notto-be-missed birria, but a seafood emphasis means standout fish tacos and ceviche, along with epic bay and bridge views. A full bar is focused on agave spirits. 900 North Point St, San Francisco, 415.741.2000 Camino Alto Californian Larkspur resdeint Josh Copeland’s all-day neighborhood restaurant in Cow Hollow serves a menu free from processed oils, low in dairy and sugar, and entirely gluten-free. We’re loving the blueberry masa waffle in the morning and the sweet potato tacos at lunch. At dinner, charred caulilflower and seared Wagyu New York strip emerge from the wood-burning oven to be paired with a glass of pét-nat or tap beer. 1715 Union St, San Francisco, 415.441.2111
Fort Point Beer Co. American The Mission location from the team behind the former Mill Valley Beerworks splits its taps between Fort Point’s pilsners, IPAs and session beers and guest taps like Double Guava Boat from Temescal Brewing, perfect for pairing with a plate of devlied eggs or a pork chop sandwich that a Swiss citizen would swoon over. 742 Valencia St, San Francisco, 415.361.7001 Frances Californian San Francisco elegance meets comfort food. The local, seasonal menu complements any trip to the city. Bar is reserved for walk-ins, but reservations are recommended. 3870 17th St, San Francisco, 415.621.3870 Hopscotch Californian An upscale diner with patio in Oakland serving regional American food with a Japanese influence. Popular items include yonsei oyster with sea urchin, salmon roe and citrus, and the first base burger with grilled beef tongue. No time to dine in? The takeout menu features an eight-piece bucket of fried chicken. 1915 San Pablo Ave, Oakland, 510.788.6217 Hotel Mac Restaurant American Filled with old-world charm, this establishment has been serving American classics since 1911. Executive chef Jaime Molina’s seasonal menu features freshly prepared fish and favorites like chicken cordon bleu. Weekly specials including Friday’s half-off bottles of wine keep patrons loyal, as does the live music featured nightly. 50 Washington Ave, Point Richmond, 510.233.0576
CHRISTINA MUELLER
options (Miwok veggie hash, vegan udon, Olema halibut), plus wine and beer, while sitting on one of the cozy, sheepskin-draped chairs inside or at a picnic table out front. 10905 State Route One, Point Reyes Station
Honey-glazed fried chicken at Lou's Takeaway, San Rafael
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Jaranita Latin American Its name refers to a “spontaneous colorful street celebration in Peru” and the quaffable sake cocktails, grilled chicken with huacatay sauce, small plates like salchipaps and wholeroasted cauliflower, and chocolate cake with dulce de leche do indeed make it feel festive at this colorful spot. Heated, covered outdoor dining is available. 3340 Steiner St, San Francisco, 415.655.9585
Maybeck's American Erik Lowe and Aaron Toensing serve inventive American standards, including fried chicken and bubbly on Tuesday and resurrection of Beef Wellington on Wednesdays. The chefs explore regional culinary traditions and translate them into a Northern California lexicon, as evidenced by their playful menu and a Negronicentered bar. 3213 Scott St, San Francisco, 415.939.2726
Loló Mexican San Francisco-style Mexican cuisine fuses marketfresh ingredients with traditional dishes. The whole atmosphere, including the outdoor patio, is bright, colorful and festive, a reflection of Loló’s flavor-blasted menu. 974 Valencia St, San Francisco, 415.643.5656
Merchant Roots American Merchant Roots serves many roles: specialty food store and wine shop, casual eatery and fine-dining restaurant. During the day, it offers pastries, sandwiches, salads, pasta that’s made on site, cheese and charcuterie, as well as gourmet pantry items. By night, the space turns into The Table at Merchant Roots, an intimate dinner experience featuring a rotating themed tasting menu. 1365 Fillmore St, San Francisco, 530.574.7365
Mägo Californian Spanish for magician or wizard, “Mägo” is chef Mark Liberman’s nickname and helps define the high-low vibe at his latest venture in Oakland. A dish of barbecued carrots sounds simple, but it is first cooked sous vide in own juice, then smoked, then grilled, and finally sautéed in brown butter. The 12-foot ceiling gives the space a light and airy feel, the petite patio is sun-splashed, and the locally made plates give a meal here the elegance it deserves. 3762 Piedmont Ave, Oakland, 510.344.7214
Mersea American Executive chef and cofounder Parke Ulrich — formerly of Lark Creek Inn, Epic Steak and Waterbar — started this venture on Treasure Island. Mersea, which means “island oasis” in Old English, serves standard American comfort food like burgers, fish and chips and the like with a local-focused Bay Area twist. Also not to be missed are the curated cocktail menu. 699 Avenue of the Palms, Treasure Island, San Francisco, 714.350.3889
Miller and Lux American Bay views and all booth seating upstairs and an intimate bar downstairs are part of a two-level bar and restaurant from chef Tyler Florence. Steak and American classics (lobster thermidor, Dover sole) dominate the menu, but the talk of the town is the Caesar salad, cut tableside from potted romaine and peppered by hand from a giant pepper grinder. A private back door drops you into the Chase Center. 700 Terry A. Francois Blvd, San Francisco, 415.872.6699 Ula Seafood The undulating waves above the bar, dreamy underwater seascape of jellyfish and sea urchin lamps and deep blue ceiling pin-pointed with stars in the arched back “pool” room of a long-running Union Square seafood restaurant was reincarnated in late 2021 as a Mediterranean restaurant, courtesy of restaurateur Krishan Miglani (Zingari Ristorante). Chef Ryan Simas, who cooked here for Farallon as well as at L.A’s Spago, helms the kitchen where classic seafood dishes (chilled Dungeness crab, Maine lobster agnolotti), plus vegetarian and meatier options, retain a fine dining touch and are available all day. 450 Post St, San Francisco, 415.999.4950
For more comprehensive restaurant listings, visit us online at marinmagazine.com/food-drink.com.
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335 San Anselmo Ave, San Anselmo, CA 415.454.9840 comfortscafe.com
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Calendar
T H E AT E R / CO M E DY / M U S I C / M U S E U M S / E V E N T S / F I L M / TA L K S
THROUGH APR 24 Hotter Than Egypt Set in the aftermath of the Egyptian Revolution, this play written by Yussef El Guindi looks at a couple’s journey to Cairo to celebrate their 24th wedding anniversary, where troubles brew, drawing in their newly engaged Egyptian tour guides. marintheatre.org MAR 24–MAY 1 Fefu and Her Friends Utilizing the multistoried, multi-roomed Strand Theater as nontraditional theater space, this story is told as the audience, broken up into groups, tour Fefu’s home. Here, a comedy-drama of eight women gathering at a New England country home in 1935 unfolds in gossip, flirtations and provocations. act-sf.org APR 3 Chamber Music The San Francisco
Hotter Than Egypt playwright Yussef El Guindi
Symphony has returned to the Legion of Honor’s Gunn Theater for a small ensemble performance that will include Bach’s Sonata for Violin and Harpsichord in A Major and Beethoven’s Piano Trip in B-flat Major, “Archduke.” sfsymphony.org APR 7, 9 The Book of Dust A live recording from the National Theatre in London captures La Belle Sauvage, a piece of Philip Pullman’s trilogy. It’s set in a fantastical world where two young people and a tiny child find themselves at the center of a terrifying manhunt while they fight off owerful adversaries. larktheater.net APR 9 English Baroque Soloists An all-Mozart program from the U.K.based group lead by Sir John Eliot Gardiner includes the Sinfonia concertante in E-flat major, Symphony #32 in G major, and Symphony #39 in
Guo Pei
E-flat major. live.stanford.edu APR 22 F. Murray Abraham The renowned actor (Amadeus, The Grand Budapest Hotel, Showtime’s “Homeland”) joins the Oakland Symphony as a narrator for this program that includes Mendelssohn’s “A Midnight Summer’s Dream Suite,” Mozart’s Violin Concerto #5
“Turkish,” and Libby Larson’s “Evening in the Palace of Reason.” oaklandsymphony.org
MUSIC APR 8 Stone Foxes After a two-year hiatus, the San Francisco band is back on the road with a stop in Sebastopol to debut new music, as well as play some old favorites. hopmonk.com
APR 10 New Esterhazy Quartet The quartets of Franz Josef Haydn played on period instruments is the idea behind this group dedicated to reproducing the unique sound Haydn intended. chambermusicmill valley.org APR 23–24 Carmina Burana The Marin Symphony closes out the Masterworks season with Orff’s
magnum opus, as conducted by Alasdair Neale. marincounty.org
COMEDY APR 19–20 Nigel Ng This Malaysian standup went viral in July 2020 for his portrayal of “Uncle Roger,” a middle-aged Asian man reviewing an egg fried rice video. He brings his schtick, a.k.a. the
WANT MORE? For the latest events and local highlights, visit marinmagazine.com/arts-events.
ANN-MARGARET JOHNSON, SASSAFRAS PHOTOS (YUSSEF EL GUINDI)
ARTS & LECTURES
EDITED BY CHRISTINA MUELLER
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Haiyaa World Tour, to San Francisco. cobbscomedy.com APR 9 Sister’s Easter Catechism America’s beloved ruler-wielding nun is back in the habit for an audienceparticipation-slashspontaneous stand-up routine inspired by the 1960s-era Catholic school experience. montalvoarts.org
FILM APR 21–MAY 1 San Francisco Film Festival A film showcase from SFFILM includes virtual and in-person events, including at San Francisco’s Castro Theatre. sffilm.org
enlightening discussion with a special guest. rafaelfilm.cafilm.org
MUSEUMS THROUGH MAY 2 Weaving Stories Bringing together nearly 45 examples of 19 th- and 20 thcentury textiles from Indonesia, the Philippines and Malaysia, this exhibit explores how fabrics are woven into the daily lives of the peoples of Southeast Asia, including archival photographs and multimedia displays. asianart.org
THROUGH SEPT 5 Couture Fantasy China’s first couturier, Guo Pei, designed fabric fantasies influenced by China’s imperial past; the clothing is as surreal as it is architectural and announced China’s arrival on the fashion scene in the early 21st century. deyoung. famsf.org MAR 30–AUG 21 Terra Incognita Three decades of Oakland-based artist David Huffman’s Traumanauts (characters who traverse the galaxy) series explores science fiction, formalist abstraction and social justice movements of the late-20th century in a range of media including large-scale
ESZTHER+DAVID (ODC); JOHN SKORIAK (CALL OF THE SEA)
Take an Earth Day Sail with Call of the Sea.
APR 21 Sharknado This film sparked a global sensation and, in case you were wondering, digs into a real phenomenon called “animal rain,” in which “tornadic waterspouts” pick up small animals and carry them through the air for several miles. The screening will be followed by an
THROUGH MAY 15 Nature x Humanity Incorporating knowledge, principles and tools from art, architecture, design, engineering and science, this review of Oxman Architects from 2007 to the present asks: What is the role of an architect in the age of climate change? sfmoma.org
canvas, works on paper, ceramics, video and printmaking. moadsf.org MAR 31–AUG 14 Imagination Unlimited With more than 25 beloved puppets and more than 150 artifacts, this show attempts to capture the groundbreaking work of Jim Henson and his creative teams as they built
stories and worlds that represented the breadth and diversity of the very messy real world. thecjm.org
EVENTS THROUGH APR 27 Bauhaus Typography at 100 The inaugural exhibition from the Letterform Archive features the work of Paul Klee, Wassily Kandinsky, László Moholy-Nagy and other typographic contributors and explores the school’s unique legacy in graphic design. letterformarchive.org ONGOING The Art of the Brick Walk beside a 20-foot-long T-Rex dinosaur skeleton, come face-to-face with a giant skull or marvel at a sculpture of a man ripping his chest open with thousands of yellow — you guessed it — LEGO bricks cascading out in an all-things LEGO exhibition from contemporary artist Nathan Sawaya. artofthebrick exhibit. com APR 16 Easter Parade A parade down Sausalito’s Caledonia Street kicks off a orning of events, including an egg hunt at Dunphy Park, live entertainment and an Easter bonnet contest judged by the Sausalito Woman’s Club. sausalito.gov APR 22 Earth Day Sail All aboard the 132foot Matthew Turner, a wooden brigantine built in Sausalito that supports on-the-water environmental educational programs to youth in seamanship,
MAR 31–APR 10 ODC’s Dance
Downtown Packing five decades of choreographic adventure and exuberant dance into two weekends of programming hardly seems enough for San Francisco’s seminal dance troupe. Founded by artistic director Brenda Way at Oberlin College in Ohio, the company moved to San Francisco in 1976. “Celebrating our 50th-plus anniversary gives us the opportunity to pause and reflect on the journey we’ve traveled over these many decades and how much art contributes to a dynamic civic culture,” Way says. The events at Yerba Buena Center for the Arts, organized around the themes of renewal and reflection, include world premieres by guest choreographers Dexandro Montalvo and Amy Seiwert alongside works by Way. The world premiere of Montalvo’s Vámonos and Way’s Speaking Volumes jumpstart the Renewal series on March 31, followed by the 50+ Anniversary Gala with seated dinner and performance. The world premiere of Seiwert’s No Alibi and Way’s Investigating Grace, part of the On Reflection series, runs April 7–10. odc.dance/downtown
marine science, and nautical history. callofthesea.org APR 22–24 Falconry in the Garden Join Rebecca Rosen of Authentic Abatement for a falconry experience where Rosen provides insight into how falcons, hawks and owls hunt, fly and see. She also explains how raptors help Napa’s Bouchaine Vineyards during
harvest, which is followed by pictures and a wine tasting. Bouchaine.com APR 24 Earth 2050 Including art exhibits, talks, games and music, this Earth Day community event at the Mill Valley Community Center invites guests to learn about the actions we can all take to build a more just and sustainable world. millvalleyrecreation.org M A R I N A P R I L 2 0 2 2 95
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Bay Area’s Better Makers O U R COM M U N IT Y COM I N G TO G E T H E R I N 202 2
EDITED BY DONNA BERRY GLASS
Institute on Aging’s Heart of the Bay Raises nearly $300,000 for Senior Services Olympic Champion Kristi Yamaguchi Hosts Virtual Event for 400 Supporters Heart of the Bay, Institute on Aging’s largest annual fundraising event, took place in February and was attended virtually by almost 400 people. Olympic Champion and Bay Area resident Kristi Yamaguchi was the mistress of ceremonies, lending her star power to the audience. With a theme of “A Celebration of Connections,” the virtual dinner party provided an opportunity to celebrate and support Institute on Aging’s myriad programs, which foster meaningful connections among the communities and people they serve. Yamaguchi was joined by Daniel Gibbs, M.D., an author and neurologist who once treated patients with Alzheimer’s and now personally lives with the disease. Dr. Gibbs delivered a powerful keynote address to all guests, who enjoyed a gourmet three-course meal delivered to them by Carrie Dove Catering and Events. Musical entertainment was provided by Ensemble San Francisco. Notable attendees included Institute on Aging board members Jeannee Parker Martin, Anne Hinton, Theresa Matacia and Marlene Litvak. Susan Simon served as event chair.
IMPACT: Serving more than 50,000 seniors and adults with disabilities in the areas of dementia, alternatives to institutionalization, caregiving, social isolation and loneliness SPONSORS: Sutter Health CPMC, City National Bank, Davis Wright Tremaine LLP, Kaiser Permanente, OnLok and SilverRide.
Adopt a Family Annual Valentine’s Day Luncheon Raises Funds for Marin’s in-Need Families Attendees dined and shopped to benefit the organization, raising over $40,000 in total After two years of being held virtually, Adopt a Family of Marin’s annual Valentine Boutique and Luncheon returned as an in-person soiree on February 4. Supporters gathered at the Mill Valley Community Center to enjoy a delicious lunch catered by Stacy Scott and shop boutique-style from local jewelry and fashion businesses, including Kathy Kamei, Collective Hearts, Cowgirl Chic, Flutter Eyewear and Manjusha Jewels. Each business donated a portion of proceeds to Adopt a Family, enabling the nonprofit to raise more than $40,000. Notable attendees included several members of the Ross Valley Women’s League, including Sylvie Polezzi, Maureen Tierney, Laura Ross and Stephanie Lamarre. Ross Valley Women’s League designates Adopt a Family as the sole beneficiary of its yearly fundraising events and initiatives.
IMPACT: Working to prevent homelessness and offer financial stability for Marin County’s families
Ross Valley Women’s League
How can we help your favorite organization too? Since January 2020, our tools and strategy have helped raise more than $23,607,183 for nonprofits and helped make over 30,342,725 lives better. WANT MORE? Learn how to help out deserving nonprofits. For inspiring success stories, matching grant opportunities and more visit marinmagazine.com/philanthropy.
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RAISE MORE MONEY Marin Magazine and Make It Better Media Group create connections for local non-profits to raise more money from our engaged audience. The Make It Better Foundation carefully vets non-profits and gives annual Philanthropy Awards to those worthy of support.
UTILIZE OUR 1-5-10,000 STRATEGY AND SEE YOUR ENGAGEMENT RISE
If you are a local non-profit, please consider adding our powerful, positive connectors to your fundraising strategy: Better Giving Circle Matching Grant Campaign Media Sponsorship Custom Virtual Event Online Event Calendar Give Time, Things, Support Recommendations BetterTV You Said It
SINCE 2020 MONEY RAISED
$13,365,201 SINCE 2020 LIVES MADE BETTER
30,262,921
Better Makers Philanthropy Awards Comprehensive Non-Profit Guide Visit marinmagazine.com to learn more
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Marin Home FRO M TO U R S A N D M A K EOV E R S TO D ECO R AT IV E D E TA I L S A N D R E A LTO R I N S I G H T S
Let It Flow Designer Jennifer Wundrow reinvents a Ross home for a fun-loving family of four. BY THERESA GONZALEZ PHOTOGRAPHY BY THOMAS KUOH
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n a quiet cul-de-sac in Ross, there was a Cape Cod-style house in desperate need of an update. Built at the turn of this century, the home was traditional in style, with small, sectioned-off ooms and a few too many interior columns. Despite their reservations about the design, a couple with two young boys bought the house because they were drawn to Ross’s strong sense of community and the property’s tranquil views of Mt. Tam and Mt. Baldy. They brought in San Rafael-based interior designer Jennifer Wundrow to make the home everything they wanted. “When I met with the homeowners for the first time, the living room had a peeka-boo pass-through window into a family room and kitchen, and the kitchen was very dated and small,” Wundrow says. Her challenge was to design a remodel that took into account both the wife’s traditional preferences and the husband’s modern preferences while adding
nothing too precious for their two kids. The remodel focused on reworking the floor plan on the main floor of the two-story house to enlarge the kitchen and create an easier flow between the kitchen, living room and dining room. Wundrow relocated the kitchen and, in doing so, doubled its size and gave it an airy view of the deck. The peek-a-boo wall was taken down, making the kitchen and living room into one expansive space where the family could spend most of their time. Relocating the kitchen also allowed for an expanded laundry room, a larger pantry and an added butler’s pantry. The formal dining room was separated from this main living space by the entryway, with four columns and two pony walls on each side, making for a very tight, enclosed feeling. Wundrow tore down the columns and pony walls, which transformed the feel. “The whole house feels more open, connected and airy,” she says. “The columns were very restricting.” Conveniently, Wundrow was able to manage the
Previous page: Designer Jennifer Wundrow selected a neutral palette for the home’s furnishings, such as the entryway here. This page: Wundrow expanded the home’s patio and deck, creating room for a fire pit, a sofa, an outdoor kitchen and an outdoor dining table.
WANT MORE? For more home decor and design inspiration, expert advice from industry leaders and stunning pieces by local artists, visit spacesmag.com.
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Clockwise, from top left: For the dining room, Wundrow selected black dining chairs from CB2, a Palacek pendant lamp made of rope woven over a metal frame and a Phillip Jeffries grasscloth wallcovering. The living room furniture is upholstered in indooroutdoor furniture from Mariaflora, making it durable for the family’s two active boys and their big dog. Wundrow relocated the kitchen and, in doing so, doubled its size and gave it airy views of the deck. A luxurious counter-to-ceiling slab of Calacatta marble satisfied the clients’ love of stone.
permitting and plans without bringing in an architect. Outfitting the new kitchen was a huge focus, Wundrow says, because the family loves to cook and entertain. She added taller windows that let light flood into the space. Next came some luxurious touches. A counter-to-ceiling slab of Calacatta marble satisfied the clients’ love of stone without adding a ton of grout. Glass cabinet doors were also on the wish list but not necessarily practical for a busy family. Wundrow designed custom cabinets, including a row of small, decorative glass cabinets along the ceiling. Those cabinets display beloved and rarely used pieces, while the regular cabinets below conveniently hide mismatched, quotidian kitchenware. Functionality was also key, so Wundrow added a new Thermador range, a Sub-Zero fridge and Wolf appliances. Restoration Hardware counter stools and a vintage runner created a warm, inviting milieu. Creating one big kitchen-living room space meant that it was easy to come and go from the home’s deck via the living room’s existing set of French doors. Wundrow expanded the patio and deck area to accommodate a new sectional, a fire pit, an outdoor kitchen and an outdoor dining table. For the furnishings and finishes, Wundrow aimed for a clean, understated look, with organic colors and textures. For example, in the dining room, she brought in black CB2 dining chairs, a Palacek pendant lamp made of rope woven over a metal frame and CONNECT WITH US ONLINE! spacesmag.com/subscribe
a Phillip Jeffries grasscloth wallcovering. The living room is mostly white, with touches of light blue in the upholstery, throw pillows and table lamps. “Blue is a neutral to me, because it works with so many other colors,” Wundrow says. For the living room furniture, Wundrow chose indoor-outdoor performance fabric from Mariaflora, so the family doesn’t have to worry about stains marring their beautiful new digs. “Their boys are very active, and they have a big rescue dog, so we needed to make the space both luxurious and durable,” Wundrow says. For movie nights and big games, the TV above the fireplace in the family room can be pulled out from the wall and turned to face the patio. But that’s rarely called for, thanks to the captivating views. New motorized awnings above the expanded patio and deck provide shade on sunnier Marin days, while mature plantings and trees create privacy. The new features enhance the private feel that the patio already had, thanks to this abundant foliage. “You feel like you’re in an oasis with nobody around,” Wundrow says. “This house is very much about being outside.” Theresa Gonzalez is a Bay Area-based writer specializing in interior design and architecture. She is the author of Sunday Sews (Chronicle Books) and has contributed to San Francisco Magazine, San Francisco Chronicle, Visit California and more.
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Just Listed 209 Cascade Drive Mill Valley Built in 1904 and extensively renovated over the years, this wonderful five bedroom and four full bathroom home has been occupied by only 2 Mill Valley families! Perched high above Cascade Drive, and located in the most beautiful and private setting, overlooking the majestic redwood trees and Cascade Canyon below. A perfect family home and just a short stroll down Cascade Drive leads you to Old Mill Park and Old Mill School as well as the public library. More info 209Cascade.com
Recently Sold Properties
180 Cascade Drive, Mill Valley 3 Bed | 3 Bath | 2,726 Sq Ft $5,600,000
44 Bayview Avenue, Mill Valley 4 Bed | 3.5 Bath | 2,700 Sq Ft $4,200,000
Sharon Kramlich
67 Molina Avenue, Mill Valley 5 Bed | 4.5 Bath | 4,300 Sq Ft $5,500,000
415.609.4473 sharon.kramlich@compass.com sharonkramlich.com DRE 01184449
Compass is a real estate broker licensed by the State of California and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. License Number 01527235. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only and is compiled from sources deemed reliable but has not been verified. Changes in price, condition, sale or withdrawal may be made without notice. No statement is made as to accuracy of any description. All measurements and square footage are approximate.
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TEAM BLAIR TAHOE #1 REGIONAL TEAM IN LAKE TAHOE With over 218 homes sold last year, our team of local experts are here to deliver you a modern real estate experience. We cover the entire Lake Tahoe Basin, Truckee, Reno, the foothills and Nakoma Resort in the heart of the ‘Lost Sierra’ - less than an hour from Reno and Truckee-Tahoe.
$1B+ Lifetime Sales
$291M+ Sales Volume in 2021
TeamBlairTahoe.Com TeamBlairTahoe.Com
530.581.1400 530.580.1400 info@teamblairtahoe.com DRE 01246366 | NV S. 145686 Compass is a real estate broker licensed by the State of California and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. License Number [license number to be inserted by region]. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only and is compiled from sources deemed reliable but has not been verified. Changes in price, condition, sale or withdrawal may be made without notice. No statement is made as to accuracy of any description. All measurements and square footage are approximate.
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RESULTS SOLD
PENDING
211 Meda Lane, Mill Valley Offered at $2,995,000
45 S. Knoll, Mill Valley Offered at $1,495,000 SOLD $2,315,000 Represented Buyers SOLD
172 Lark Lane, Mill Valley Offered at $1,695,000 SOLD $2,183,000
SOLD
196 Esmeyer, San Rafael Offered at $1,295,000 SOLD $2,021,000 Represented Buyers
SOLD
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306 Larkspur Plaza, Larkspur Offered at $629,000 SOLD $595,000 Represented Buyers
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COMING THIS SPRING! – Call for more information Nina Court, Mill Valley Offered at $4,995,000 | 4BD | 3.5BA | 4336 SF Panoramic 360 degree views from San Francisco to Mt Tam. Gorgeously renovated contemporary home.
Redwood Avenue, Corte Madera Offered at $3,495,000 | 5 BD | 4.5BA | 3481 SF Private Country Estate on 1+acre with lush gardens and breathtaking views!
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Home: A place where someone or something is bred, nourished and fostered. A haven, island, retreat and sanctuary.
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Joan L. Kermath, MBA Marin Home Professional 415.233.3031 joan.@joankermath.com JoanKermath.com DRE 01308538
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Compass is the brand name used for services provided by one or more of the Compass group of subsidiary companies. Compass is a real estate broker licensed by the State of California and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. License Number 01272467. All material herein is intended for informational purposes only and is compiled from sources deemed reliable but has not been verified. Changes in price, condition, sale or withdrawal may be made without notice. No statement is made as to accuracy of any description. All measurements and square footage are approximate.
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NOW SHOWING Sleepy Hollow’s Private Playground
A rare opportunity to own 3.8 acres that backs up to open space in San Anselmo’s most coveted neighborhood. Miles of trails, endless views, and a lifetime of enjoyment. 3 BED | 3 BATH | POOL CABANA | DETACHED OFFICE 95 Irving Drive | San Anselmo
More Properties Adjacent to Open Space COMING SOON!
Want to learn more? Give me a call!
Terra Linda Stunner! 4 BED | 3 BATH | POOL Lower Lucas Valley Updated Eichler 4 BED | 2 BATH | DREAMY YARD
Allison Salzer
415.297.2110 allison.salzer@compass.com allisonsalzer.com DRE 01978463
Rules & Exclusions apply. Compass offers no guarantee or warranty of results. Subject to additional terms and conditions. Compass is a real estate broker licensed by the State of California and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. License Number 01961027. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only and is compiled from sources deemed reliable but has not been verified. Changes in price, condition, sale or withdrawal may be made without notice. No statement is made as to accuracy of any description. All measurements and square footage are approximate.
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Hello
Spring. Goodbye
old house.
donna@donnagoldman.com
415.509.2427
www.donnagoldman.com
Donna Goldman is a real estate agent affilia ed with Compass. Compass is a licensed real estate broker licensed by the state of California and abides by equal housing opportunity laws. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice. No statement is made as to accuracy of any description. All measurements and square footages are approximate. This is not intended to solicit property already listed. Nothing herein shall be construed as legal, accounting or other professional advice outside the realm of real estate brokerage.
CalBRE No. 01408527
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Cover Represented by PETER PICKREL The property information herein is derived from various sources that may include, but not be limited to, county records and the Multiple Listing Service, and it may include approximations. Although the information is believed to be accurate, it is not warranted and you should not rely upon it without personal verification. Real estate agents affiliated with Coldwell Banker Realty are independent contractor sales associates, not employees. ©2022 Coldwell Banker. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker and the Coldwell Banker logos are trademarks of Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. The Coldwell Banker® System is comprised of company owned offices which are owned by a subsidiary of Realogy Brokerage Group LLC and franchised offices which are independently owned and operated. The Coldwell Banker System fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act.
Kathleen
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SAN RAFAEL | $2,250,000 Unique in every way. Enjoy lush landscaping and a babbling creek as you approach this exceptional 4br/3.5ba contemporary home sited on a park-like lot. Jennifer Boesel 415.497.3383 jboesel@cbnorcal.com CalRE #01201781
MILL VALLEY | $2,195,000 Stunning newly constructed 3BD/2.5BA home in Homestead Valley. Sold nearly 25% over asking with multiple offers. Joshua Deitch 415.572.5433 JoshuaDeitch@me.com CalRE #01902477
TIBURON | $1,950,000 Stylish 3br/3.5ba home with hot tub, elevator & Bay views is located in the highly desirable Paradise Cay. Jola Marra 415.608.4552 jolamarra@outlook.com CalRE #01710099
ColdwellBankerHomes.com
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guiding you home since 1906
SAN RAFAEL | $1,600,000 Welcome to this gorgeous 4br/3ba light-filled home on the lagoon. Enjoy aquatic life literally at your doorstep! Carla Giustino 415.314.7914 carlamarinhomes@gmail.com CalRE #01215560
NOVATO | $1,300,000 Open concept design features blonde hardwood floors and exposed beams. There is an ADU unit above the garage with a full kitchen on a triple lot. Haven O'Halloran 415.302.4960 haven.ohalloran@cbnorcal.com CalRE #01994847
FAIRFAX | $1,850,000 3br/2.5ba newly constructed home.
CORTE MADERA | $1,595,000 Remodeled 3BR/2BA home on coveted street.
Jennifer Boesel 415.497.3383 jboesel@cbnorcal.com CalRE #01201781
Gerald Piro 415.515.3927 jerrypiro@aol.com CalRE #00521674
ColdwellBankerHomes.com
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COVER PROPERTY
CORTE MADERA | $1,545,000 Mid-century modern 3br/2.5ba Chapman Park home with views!
SAN RAFAEL | $1,440,000 Peaceful, private Sun Valley Duplex. Thinking of downsizing?
Peter Pickrel 415.385.8800 PPickrel@cbnorcal.com CalRE #01156183
Charlynn Baumsteiger 415.302.8996 charlynn415@gmail.com CalRE #01945066
NOVATO | $1,399,000 3br/2ba home in coveted Marin Country Club neighborhood w/VIEWS!
SAN RAFAEL | $1,329,000 3br/2ba home in Central San Rafael.
Abby Tanem 415.497.9542 atanem@cbnorcal.com CalRE #01301798
Lisa Byram 415.846.3821 lisa@lisabyram.com CalRE #01793707
SAN RAFAEL | $1,289,000 Mid-century modern 4br/2ba single-family home with patio & views!
NOVATO | $1,250,000 Single-level 3br/3ba home with a swimming pool and a paver patio.
Susan Coleman 415.378.2350 coleman.susan@comcast.net CalRE #01336715
Karyn Kambur 415.516.3221 kkambur@cbnorcal.com CalRE #01785669
ColdwellBankerHomes.com
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guiding you home since 1906
FAIRFAX | $1,250,000 Majestic 3br/3ba Mount Tam View home with extensive decks & views. Susan Pence 415.269.0417 sue.pence@cbnorcal.com CalRE #01745825
NOVATO | $995,000 Remodeled 3br/2ba single-level home w/decking, patio and hot tub. Deann DaSilva 415.250.6117 deanndasilva@gmail.com CalRE #01724687
SAN RAFAEL | $1,175,000 Charming 2br/1.5ba 1930’s Spanish style home backing to Boyd Park. Aileen Tong 415.806.7086 Colleen Cornell 415.215.6346 CalRE #01884175 | CalRE #01489999
TIBURON | $995,000 Open-concept 2br/1ba view condo with large deck and views galore. The Nordstrom Real Estate Team 415.302.7404 CandaceNordstrom@gmail.com CalRE #01320089
NOVATO | $839,000 3br/2ba single-story w/vaulted ceilings, skylights & fruit trees.
NOVATO | $695,000 Spacious 3br/2.5ba Madera Marin Townhome w/rear deck & pool!
Amy Diller 415.716.1659 amysellsre@yahoo.com CalRE #01297467
John Hammer 415.971.4769 jhammer@cbnorcal.com CalRE #00975220
ColdwellBankerHomes.com
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NOVATO | $649,000 Spacious 2br/2ba single-level Pacheco Valle condo w/balcony!
NOVATO | $549,000 2br/2ba single level end unit condo in Scottsdale Lake Community!
Kristie Martinelli 415.412.4720 krissrose12@gmail.com CalRE #01943588
Abby Tanem 415.497.9542 atanem@cbnorcal.com CalRE #01301798
SAN RAFAEL | $489,000 Lovely 1BR/1BA condo w/ wood-burning fireplace & updated kitchen.
SAN RAFAEL | $379,000 1br/1ba Top floor condo in Marin’s 55+ Smith Ranch Community.
Bob Ravasio 415.378.1414 bravasio@cbnorcal.com CalRE #01495983
Amy Diller 415.716.1659 amysellsre@yahoo.com CalRE #01297467
ROSEVILLE | $875,000 5br/4ba +bonus room in West Roseville.
BELVEDERE TIBURON | $599,000 SOLD: Wonderful 1br/1ba condo with views.
ROHNERT PARK | $499,000 Great 3br/2ba single-level opportunity.
NOVATO | $449,500 Private corner unit in Gateway Commons.
Barbara Silva 916.718.6244 barbsilva@comcast.net CalRE #00986087
Marty Bautista 415.925.3272 mbautista@cbnorcal.com CalRE #01211231
Andrew Falk 415.250.8025 andyfalk2112@yahoo.com CalRE #01459954
Julie Widergren 415.827.8727 julie.widergren@cbnorcal.com CalRE #01402872
ColdwellBankerHomes.com
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Oceanic Realty
Time Is Precious... Spend It At The Beach.
Stinson Beach
Sarah Butler
415.265.5070 DRE# 01258888
LISTED FOR $2,975,000 3 Beds | 2 Baths | 3,292 SF Stinson Beach, CA OceanicRealty.com
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315Hillside.com
Mill Valley 3 Beds | 1 Bath | 1 Half-Bath Sold Over Asking | $2,850,000
Traci & Beth Know Marin
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With over $400 million in combined sales, we have the knowledge, experience and insight to help you take your next steps in real estate.
traci &beth Marin
SF
Wine Country
415.793.0111 | t.thiercof@ggsir.com | tracithiercof.com | Lic.# 01817886 415.990.7186 | b.sasan@ggsir.com | bethsasan.com | Lic.# 01433542
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San Rafael 5 Beds | 4 Baths | ±4,000 sq. ft. | ±0.4 Acre Lot
New Listing Price Upon Request
Located in one of San Rafael’s most desirable neighborhoods, this exquisite home is extensively remodeled with the finest finishes and is extraordinarily private. The fully fenced yard with lush lawns, garden and expansive patio are perfect for entertaining. Call us to learn more about this exceptional home.
SK A LL ✳ GLASSM A N MARCIA SKALL, MBA 415.533.5721 m.skall@ggsir.com Lic.# 01077678
JENNIFER GLASSMAN 415.309.5331 j.glassman@ggsir.com Lic.# 02059113
SK ALLGLASSMAN.COM
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Alex V. Choulos
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av.choulos@ggsir.com GoldenGateLuxuryHomes.com Lic.# 01969799
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Kathy Schlegel
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SOLD—REPRESENTED BUYER
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BEDS
3
$4,300,000
BATHS
TIBURON
Sara Downs | 415.847.1166 2 Midden Lane s.downs@ggsir.com | SaraDowns.GoldenGateSIR.com
NEW LISTING
5
BEDS
4
Price Upon Request
BATHS
SAN RAFAEL
Marcia Skall, MBA | 415.533.5721 m.skall@ggsir.com | SkallGlassman.com
SOLD — REPRESENTED VA BUYER
4
BEDS
3
Contact Agent for Info
BATHS
MILL VALLEY
Alexander V. Choulos | 415.601.7609
116 Magee Ave av.choulos@ggsir.com | GoldenGateLuxuryHomes.com
NEW FOR SALE LISTING
3
BEDS
3
BATHS
3
2
BATHS
Rick van der Wal | 415.306.4106
rick@rvanderwal.com | rickvdw.com
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$2,290,000
1
1/2 BA
GREENBRAE
Sherry Ramzi | 415.902.7344 s.ramzi@ggsir.com | SherryRamzi.com
28LuckyDrive.com
FOR JUSTSALE SOLD
NEWSOLD LISTING
BEDS
Contact Agent for Info
$1,649,000 $3,325,000 SAN MILL ANSELMO VALLEY
28WoodsideDrive.com
3
BEDS
2
BATHS
$953,000 NOVATO
Kathy Schlegel | 415.699.7406 12Hummingbird.com Kathy@KathySchlegel.com | KathySchlegel.com
3/4/22 PM 3/7/22 12:05 9:15 AM
JUST LISTED
E
±
36 LINDA VISTA AVENUE, TIBURON
B
3 BD | 3.5 BA | LISTED AT $4,995,000
±
GLOBALESTATES .COM
Lydia Sarkissian
Magda Sarkissian
Bill Bullock
l.sarkissian@ggsir.com
m.sarkissian@ggsir.com
bb@ggsir.com
Lic.# 01159670
Lic.# 02028978
415.517.7720
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415.847.7913
415.384.4000 Lic.# 00837358
3/7/22 9:16 AM
PRICE RECENTLY REDUCED
EASTON POINT, TIBURON
±110-ACRE RIDGE LINE | NOW LISTED AT $63,000,000 PRICE RECENTLY REDUCED
BLUFF POINT, TIBURON
±14.5-ACRE WATERFRONT | NOW LISTED AT $17,500,000
GLOBALESTATES .COM
Lydia Sarkissian
Magda Sarkissian
Bill Bullock
l.sarkissian@ggsir.com
m.sarkissian@ggsir.com
bb@ggsir.com
Lic.# 01159670
Lic.# 02028978
415.517.7720
0422_GoldenGate_FNL.indd 119
415.847.7913
415.384.4000 Lic.# 00837358
3/4/22 9:16 4:02 AM PM 3/7/22
PORTFOLIO BY
VANGUARD PROPERTIES
7 SEAVIEW DRIVE SAN RAFAEL CHRISTINE CHRISTIANSEN 7SEAVIEWDRIVE.COM
55 WILDWOOD LANE
476 LIVE OAK DRIVE $ 2,199,000 415.728.1641
M I L L VA L L E Y MATT FRANCIS 476 L IVE OA K .CO M
52 VIA LA CUMBRE
·
E A S T B AY
SAN RAFAEL CHRISTINE CHRISTIANSEN 55WILDWOODLANE.COM
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MILL VALLEY HOWARD WYNN 8DORSET.COM
MARIN COUNT Y
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|
SAN RAFAEL $499,000 RACHEL PERCIVAL 415.933.7681 VILLAMARINLIVING.COM
$1,850,000 415.828.9966
S O N O M A & N A PA CO U N T I E S
M A RIN OFFI CE S: 3 5 2 Mill er Avenue , Mill Vall ey
COMING SOON 415.933.7681
100 THORNDALE DR., UNIT 144
8 DORSET LANE
GREENBRAE $1,880,000 BOWMAN REAL ESTATE GROUP 415.755.1040 5 2 V I A L A C U M BR E . C O M
SAN FR ANCISCO
PRICELESS 415.933.7681
111 8 Magno lia Avenue , L ark s pur
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PA L M S PR I N G S
|
1 6 9 0 T iburon Boul ev ard , T iburon
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W E S T H O L LY W O O D |
D R E# 014 8 6 0 75
vanguardproperties.com
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LUXURY RETIREMENT LIVING
1 0 0
T H O R N D A L E
D R I V E
|
S A N
R A F A E L
VIL L AMARIN L IVIN G .CO M Experience luxurious living in one of Marin’s premier 55+ communities. Currently available apartments range from studio/1 bedroom to 3 bedrooms, starting at just $155,000! Enjoy having everything you need to live an active community lifestyle, enhanced by impressive amenities. Appreciate the beautiful, serene vistas of the surrounding Terra Linda hills showcased from each unit. Facilities include:
Dining room with one chef-prepared meal per day
Gymnasium
On-site medical facilities
On-site gift shop & hair/beauty salon
1-car covered parking included
Paddle tennis court
Promenade
Workshop/art studio
Library & computer room
Card room
Swimming pool & jacuzzi
Organized recreational activities
Rachel Percival, ACII | 415.933.7681 rachel@vanguardmarin.com DRE# 01904109 Opening Doors, Closing Deals
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Communities
Hog Island Oyster Co.
Cowgirl Creamery
Cypress Tree Tunnel
THE STATS POPULATION: Approximately 16,000
West Marin Comprising seven tiny hamlets — Point Reyes Station, Olema, Stinson Beach, Bolinas, Tomales, Dillon Beach and Inverness — and a whole lot of open space, West Marin is the largest rural area in Marin County. Its bucolic rolling hills, pastures dotted with grazing cattle and sheep, sweeping ocean vistas and dramatic cliffside beaches have lured countless visitors over the years, as well as a number of notable artists, including the late abstract expressionist Sam Francis. Nature lovers flock to Point Reyes National Seashore for a close encounter with wildlife like elephant seals and tule elk (see our hiking guide on page 38), and to Tomales Bay to witness spectacular displays of bioluminescence — ideally experienced on a kayak at night under the stars. Aside from all of that natural beauty, however, West Marin is also foodie paradise, home to gourmet purveyors like Cowgirl Creamery, Point Reyes Farmstead Cheese Company, Wild West Ferments, Stemple Creek Ranch, Hog Island Oyster Co. and Tomales Bay Oyster Company, as well as outstanding eateries like Nick’s Cove, William Tell House, and Sir and Star at the Olema. LOTUS ABRAMS
NOTABLE RESIDENTS: Joel Coen and Frances McDormand, the late Sam Francis FUN FACTS: Point Reyes lies on a different tectonic plate than the rest of the coast. Bolinas and Stinson Beach face off in a tug of war competition across the Bolinas Lagoon every Fourth of July, an annual tradition (save a Covid-19 hiatus) for more than 120 years.
WANT MORE? Get to know every corner of Marin with a different town each month in "Communities" — and read more about them at marinmagazine.com/cities-towns.
JACKIE JEAN PHOTOGRAPHY/@TOMALES BAY (NICK'S COVE); @COWGIRLCREAMERY (CHEESE); @OLEMAHOUSE (CYPRESS TREE TUNNEL); @HOGISLANDOYSTERCO
Nick's Cove
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Virtuo u so uo
Your family is your focus. Choose a philanthropic partner who understands that. Virtuoso at MCF. The modern alternative to a private foundation.
With Offices in Marin and San Francisco.
www.marincf.org | 415.464.2507
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