At Home in
MARIN CITY A local family fights for housing rights
MEDICAL AND WELLNESS GUIDE
001 Cover.0222.v3.indd 1
1/10/22 2:46 PM
$7.1 Billion Sales Volume 2021
GGSIR Marin Brand Ad-Feb22-2PS-v02.indd All Pages 0222_GoldenGate_FNL.indd 2
3,790
Number of Transactions 2021
1/10/22 11:41 AM
We elevate the real estate experience for our agents, too. Whether maximizing the value of your home or finding the home of your dreams, our Marin agents provide incomparable service at all price points. Our 2021 results are exceptional, and are the result of exceptional people. We’re locally rooted, globally connected, and leading our industry.
Nothing compares GOLDENGATESIR.COM
$2.2 Million Average Marin Sale Price 2021
0222_GoldenGate_FNL.indd 3
465 Agents
1/7/22 11:41 1:26 PM 1/10/22 AM
The doctor’s office designed around you We’re changing the way people get medical care — including adults 65+ and those on Medicare. Feel cared for and listened to, not rushed and hushed. And get the best care of your life from compassionate providers experienced in caring for seniors. Learn more at onemedical.com/seniors or call 800-979-1642
OneMedical_0222_FNL.indd 1
12/15/21 12:58 PM
IT ' S A BRA ND NEW DA Y.
We are proud to announce that Private Ocean Wealth Management is joining Wealthspire Advisors. Learn more at privateocean.com/newday
PrivateOcean_0222_FNL.indd 1
12/30/21 1:01 PM
Contents FEB RUARY 202 2
FEATURES
32
38
The Austin family bought a historic pole home in the tight-knit community, and now they’re leading a legal fight for housing rights.
Our children are facing a mental health crisis, both on and off the sports field.
At Home in Marin City
When the Kids Are Not Alright
IN MARIN
23
29
In this issue, we explore the benefits of meditation; get some dating tips from a local celebrity matchmaker; and gear up for a Winter Olympics watch party.
MarinHealth CEO David G. Klein, MD, reflects on his first year at the helm of the hospital, and his goals for its future.
Currents
Conversation: A Healthy Future
27
30
FYI: Boost Your Immune System
Shop Local: Be My Valentine Give your loved one a romantic gift or experience.
Local experts explain the health benefits of fermented foods.
28
Jo M. Haraf brings a dramatic part of Marin County’s history to life in her new literary nonfiction book.
27
"Shop Local"
006-008 TOC_0222_v2.indd 6
For the cover, Jacquelyn Warner photographed the Austin family at their home in Marin City.
For tips, trends and things to do, follow our social accounts at @marinmagazine.com or subscribe to our Better Letter.
COURTESY OF THE LITTLE FLOWER SHOP
Author Talk: Marriage, Murder and Betrayal
1/10/22 1:47 PM
NiceGuys_0222_FNL.indd 1
12/23/21 11:17 AM
Contents FEB RUARY 202 2
47
"Romantic Escapes"
47
73
"The Big Picture"
DESTINATIONS
EAT & DRINK
MARIN HOME
47
54
73
Romantic Escapes Treat your loved one to a getaway, near or far, at one of these dreamy destinations.
What’s Hot: February Dining to Suit Your Style Flex your Valentine’s Day date plans at these restaurants that serve up delicious eats, day and night.
The Big Picture A half-renovated Kent home is transformed into a luxe hillside abode.
COLUMNS
14 View From the Team 16 About Town 18 Your Voices 19 Connect With Us 20 New in Town 55 Dine 68 Calendar 70 Bay Area's Better Makers 98 Reflections
BRENDAN MCGUIGAN/HARBOR HOUSE ROMANTIC ESCAPES; PAUL DYER (BIG PICTURE)
"Romantic Escapes"
8 FEB RUARY 2022 MARIN
006-008 TOC_0222_v2.indd 8
1/10/22 3:08 PM
(415) 383-0583 hadleyconstruction.com
Hadley_0222_FNL.indd 1
12/16/21 3:00 PM
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
Happily ever after S TA RT S H E R E
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 DIGITAL CONTENT DIRECTOR Brooke Geiger McDonald SENIOR CONTENT MANAGER & DIGITAL EDITOR Jessica Gliddon SPACES EDITOR IN CHIEF Liz Logan DIGITAL MARKETING ASSISTANT Jessica Dlugosz DINING AND CALENDAR EDITOR Christina Mueller PHILANTHROPY EDITOR Donna Berry Glass FEATURE WRITER Kirsten Jones Neff SENIOR WRITER Richard Wright CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Jeanne Cooper, Laura Hine, Ian Larned
mill valley’s destination jewelry store since 1994
Art ART DIRECTOR Lisa Hilgers PRODUCTION DIRECTOR Alex French CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Paul Dyer, Jacquelyn Warner
Administration MAKE IT BETTER FOUNDATION EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Sharon Krone CONTROLLER Maeve Walsh TECHNICAL OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Jennifer Speaker
80 throckmorton avenue mill valley, ca 94941 415.388.8776 w w w.sof ia jewelry.com
Volume 18, Issue 2. 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. A l l p a p e r w i t h i n t h i s p r o d u c t c o m e f r o m Fo r e s t S t e w a r d s h i p Council® - certified material, recycled material or controlled wood. 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.
10 F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 2 M A R I N
010-012 Masthead.0222.indd 10
1/10/22 1:49 PM
GreenRiver_0222_FNL.indd 1
1/5/22 11:43 AM
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
Live retirement on your own terms
MEDIA ART MANAGER Alex French
Regional Sales Offices SONOMA COUNTY / SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA / TAHOE Lesley Cesare | lcesare@makeitbetter.com
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.
NAPA COUNTY Jessica Hamilton | jhamilton@makeitbetter.com NEW YORK Karen Couture, Couture Marketing | 917.821.4429 HAWAII Debbie Anderson, Destination Marketing | 808.739.2200
Reader Services MAILING ADDRESS One Harbor Drive, Suite 208, Sausalito, CA 94965 PHONE 415.332.4800 FAX 415.332.3048
Strengthening your financial securitySM Let’s talk—contact me today.
INQUIRIES: editorial@marinmagazine.com subscriptions@marinmagazine.com | 818.286.3111
Helen Abe, CIMA®, CPFA, CRPC® Senior Vice President – Financial Advisor 300B Drakes Landing Road, Suite 155 Greenbrae, CA 94904
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR: Please send letters to editorial@marinmagazine.com. Include your full name, city, state and phone number. Marin Magazine reserves the right to edit letters for clarity, length and style. SUBSCRIPTIONS: Rates are $12 for out-of-state subscriptions or free for California subscribers. To subscribe, manage your subscription or change your address visit marinmagazine.com/subscribe.
(415) 445-8468 helen.abe@rbc.com us.rbcwealthmanagement.com/helen.abe
BULK ORDERS For information on bulk orders of Marin Magazine, please call 415.332.4800.
Investment and insurance products: • Not insured by the FDIC or any other federal government agency • Not a deposit of, or guaranteed by, the bank or an affiliate of the bank • May lose value
For more up-to-the-minute articles, tips, trends and things to do, subscribe to our Better Letter and follow us online at @marinmagazine and marinmagazine.com. MAKE IT BETTER MEDIA GROUP ALSO INCLUDES
© 2020 RBC Wealth Management, a division of RBC Capital Markets, LLC, Member NYSE/FINRA/SIPC. All rights reserved. 20-JD-03338 (10/20)
20-JD-03338_HelenAbe_PrintAD2_TH_R2_FINAL.indd 1
10/1/20 11:07 AM
12 F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 2 M A R I N
010-012 Masthead.0222.indd 12
1/10/22 1:49 PM
COUTURE CANNABIS, DELIVERED WWW.ONA.LIFE
415-909-0382
@ONA.LIFE
CITY OF SAN RAFEAL LICENSE NO : 2018-08-ONA / BUREAU OF CANNABIS CONTROL: C9-000100
ONALife_0222_FNL.indd 1
12/20/21 11:05 AM
View From the Team
Be Well If there’s one thing we’ve collectively learned during these pandemic times, it’s the value of prioritizing wellness and self-care — a key theme we’re focusing on in this issue of Marin Magazine. Of course, “self-care” has already been a buzzword for the last several years. According to Google Trends, the number of searches for “selfcare” has more than doubled since 2015. But the pandemic has heightened our interest in taking better care of ourselves — both our bodies and our minds. A recent survey created by Vagaro and conducted by OnePoll found that 71% of respondents believe society will collectively prioritize self-care in the next five years in response to the pandemic. So how is self-care defined? According to the World Health Organization (WHO), self-care is “The ability of individuals, families and communities to promote health, prevent disease, maintain health, and cope with illness and disability with or without the support of a health-care provider.” For many of us, self-care is about reducing stress, a leading contributor to such health issues as high blood pressure, insomnia and depression. The Vagaro survey found that 75% of Americans believe self-care activities can help reduce stress, with at-home spa rituals (40%), getting a manicure/pedicure (30%), exercising outdoors (28%) and working out in a gym (24%) listed as top stress-relieving activities. Clearly, our lifestyle choices can make a big difference in our sense of well-being, and in our overall health. Here’s how some of our staff members relax, unwind and recharge: Editor in Chief Lotus Abrams recently got an e-bike, which she enjoys riding on the Sawyer Camp Trail along the Crystal Springs
Lotus Abrams
Domenica Lotus Abrams DiVietro
Lesley Cesare
Sharon Coleman with son Maxim Grippaldi
Reservoir near her home. Marketing Coordinator Domenica DiVietro works out on the treadmill every morning to start her day with a positive and healthy mindset. Senior Media Consultant Sharon Coleman takes long walks with her husband on Bridgeway in Sausalito, hikes on the coast with her son and takes trips to the mountains in the winter — her favorite time of year. Publisher Leah Bronson recharges by immersing herself in nature on a rigorous hike, working out at the gym or enjoying a relaxing spa treatment. Senior Content Manager and Digital Editor Jessica Gliddon uses yoga and meditation to unwind, but when she’s working, her cat, Pascal, helps her feel calm and happy. And swimming, gyming, hiking, yoga and mindfulness classes all help Media Director Lesley Cesare stay centered, along with her time spent volunteering with furry friends at Milo. What’s your favorite form of self-care? We’d love to know, so tag us on social media @marinmagazine and let us know. Take care! Susan B. Noyes, Founder & Chief Visionary Officer Leah Bronson, Publisher Lotus Abrams, Managing Editor
WANT MORE? Find all the self care tips you need at marinmagazine.com/self-care and additional resources in our Better list at better.net/sf-bay-area/better-list.
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
7
14 FEB RUARY 2022 MARIN
014 ViewfromTeam_0222_v2.indd 14
1/10/22 1:51 PM
Come experience Ascend, City Ventures’ new townhome community in Novato’s vibrant Hamilton Field. These solar included homes are in a neighborhood surrounded by parks and protected wetlands, yet closely connected to San Francisco and Sonoma County via Larkspur Ferry and the SMART train. Nearby shopping centers like Vintage Oaks, restaurants, and a variety of hiking trails provide the ever-desirable town and country lifestyle. Closer to home, a community garden, bocce courts and play area round this new community. Preview tours are available now. 1,737 - 1,875 Sq. Ft. | 3 - 4 Bedrooms | 2.5 - 3.5 Baths High $800,000s to Low $1 Millions
CityVenturesNovato.com Ascend@CityVentures.com | 415.214.4689 | 802 State Access Road, Novato, CA 94949
All renderings, floor plans, and maps are concepts and are not intended to be an actual depiction of the buildings, fencing, walkways, driveways or landscaping. Walls, windows, porches and decks vary per elevation and lot location. In a continuing effort to meet consumer expectations, City Ventures reserves the right to modify prices, floor plans, specifications, options and amenities without notice or obligation. Square footages shown are approximate. Broker/agent must accompany and register their client(s) with the onsite sales team on their first visit to the community in order to be eligible for any broker referral fee. Please see your Sales Manager for details. ©️2022 City Ventures. All rights reserved. DRE LIC # 01979736.
AscendHamiltonField_0222_v1.indd 1
1/7/22 12:35 PM
In Marin /
ABOUT TOWN
February, Friends, Fitness: The Three Fs for Success
A
s we celebrate heart health First day month, focusing on cardioof the fast vascular fitness, I’m reminded of the hundreds of profiles we’ve published at Marin Magazine over the years highlighting inspiring (dare I say, slightly insane) local athletes: There was ultra-marathoner Dean Karnazes, who, on the eve of his 30th birthday, put on some running shoes after dinner in Marin and ran to Half Moon Bay (Forest Gump has nothing on Dean), and one of my favorite interviews with a then 7-year-old Ella Woodhead, who, along with her chocolate lab (and parents nearby), swam the entire length of the Golden Gate Bridge. We featured program and fit back into our jeans. Sausalito Council member Melissa Blaustein Our first stop was the newly refurin 2019 when she swam across the English Channel, and how could we forget über-triathlete bished 9 Corners Med-Cryo Spa in Novato, now in the Vintage Oaks Kathy Winkler, who thought running around the Shopping Center. I’ve known the Big Island was a great way to celebrate turning super-fit owners, Cat and Randy, 50? The drive and commitment of these friends for years, and introduced them to my pro-pants and neighbors can be a bit intimidating for those posse by explaining that I was willing to “have of us who aren't quite wired to these extremes. what they're having” for a few months to break However, for the rest of us suburban strollers, through the persistent pudge. First step: a podcast peddlers and weekend warriors, the ProLon fast, which is a five-day reduced-calorie county abounds in opportunities for fun program created by the Buck Institute, University physical activities. of Southern California gerontology and the It’s hard to think of a better playground than National Institutes of Health. Full disclosure: Marin County, where nearly 85% of our land is This fast is not designed only for weight loss. If public open space, offering hundreds of hiking you follow the plan, most people lose at least 5 and biking trails, coastlines and bay shores to pounds, but the main benefit is a cellular cleansexplore by board, kayak or boat. And then ing called autophagy, which promotes longevity. there’s the fitness and yoga studios. How then, As we listened to the spiel, which included I wondered last fall, did I gain 10 pounds during the green light on coffee, I was 100% in. “Just to the pandemic? Apparently, typing does not be honest though,” I piped in, “I'll probably have burn calories! some Tequila one or two of the nights — it’s the Knowing I needed support, I created a text low-glycemic option.” My honesty was met with thread with some like-minded friends called a wall of objection from the group. “We’re all in "Pants by Christmas" to share tips and funny or we’re all out,” was their ultimatum. Ouch. I memes and motivate ourselves to stick to the
CONNECT! editorial@marinmagazine.com
conceded, and amazingly, we all did it. It was the perfect kickstart. I didn’t lose much weight, but I felt better than I had in years. Next step: fitness. I went back to Susan Hauser’s hot yoga class (I hadn’t been in about two years), and I didn’t bend or flex nearly as well as I used to, but I loved the energy, and looking around at the sculpted figures of the men and women in the room, it was clear that this is a committed crew and their hard work has paid off. I’m sure they have most likely each had their own moments of reckoning, and through dedication, have earned their beach bods. This is just one studio, one discipline — there are so many options: The Bay Club and PilatesWorks, to name a few, and the latest craze seems to be Yoga Republic in San Rafael. And, like "Pants by my small Pants by Christmas text Christmas" thread, I get the feeling that community is part of the equation for all of these studios and fitness clubs, as in, if it’s fun and my friends are doing it, I’ll be successful. Happy ending: The encouragement of the text thread worked. I didn’t lose all 10 pounds, but I’m going in the right direction and happily fit into my jeans by Christmas. 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. As always, we appreciate any and all feedback!
Mimi Towle Editor at Large
WANT MORE? Visit better.net/sf-bay-area 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."
16 FEB RUARY 2022 MARIN
016 AboutTown_0222_v2.indd 16
1/10/22 1:53 PM
Introducing Marin’s One-Of-A-Kind Fitness & Wellness Center Limited Amount of Memberships Available!
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 Locally Owned & Operated Warren Gendel Co-Founder & CEO Scott K. Raymond Co-Founder & Wellness Advisor
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 MEMBERSHIP OFFICE HOURS: MONDAY-SATURDAY 11AM-3PM, SUNDAY BY APPT.
ClubEvexia_0222_FNL.indd 1
1/7/22 2:25 PM
In Marin / YOUR VOICES FEBRUARY 2022
CAN’T MISS VIRTUAL EVENTS! A Sound Body and Mind: Finding Your Center
SOCIAL MEDIA “Getting Her Jam On,” by Christina Mueller “I remember Jen (Jennifer Maxwell), her late husband and children. I was working front office at the Ross school at that time. Glad to see
Date: February 17 Register now at marinmagazine.com/webinars.
What’s on Replay Expert Fitness Tips to Become Your Best Self
her old business is starting up again as her new business — great PowerBars.” — Gloria Ahrens Darrington (via Facebook) “Vivalon Raises Funds for CarePool at ’20s-Era Themed Soirée d’Élégance,” by Donna Berry Glass “Thank you, Marin Magazine, for featuring Vivalon’s Soirée d’Élégance. It was an elegant success that benefited our vital CarePool program. CarePool is a volunteer driver service offered through Vivalon to Marin County residents over the age of 65 who no longer drive. Volunteers provide free rides to medical appointments or the grocery store. — Vivalon (via Facebook) “New in Town: The Bungalow Kitchen by Michael Mina,” by Christina Mueller “ Can’t wait to finally get a reservation!! ” — @marinmortgageguy (via Instagram)
Jennifer Maxwell
CONNECT! editorial@marinmagazine
In this upcoming webinar, we will be joined by panelists, including the chief wellness officer at Bian, who share expert advice on finding your center while we raise funds for the U.S. Olympic Foundation.
The Bungalow Kitchen by Michael Mina
“A place open beyond 10 p.m. in Tiburon ?? Shiver me timbers — get out my walker, Henrietta, and my old Harvard tweed jacket, we are going out on the town @bungalow kitchentiburon” — @planthand (via Instagram)
Take inspiration to set goals with this event featuring a panel of fitness influencers, who took the virtual stage to share their expertise on exercise and physical well-being.
Be Kind to Your Mind Taking care of ourselves also means taking care of our mental health. An expert panel of mental health thought leaders share their personal stories, along with dedicated professionals who bring awareness and treat those with mental differences. Together, we look at how mental health care has changed during the pandemic, and what you can do to be kind to your mind in a world full of stressors.
Aging Well Learn what you can do to stay forever young by caring for your mind and body while also planning ahead for the future.
Watch all of our virtual events on demand at better.net / bettertv.
COURTESY OF PAIGE GREEN (JENNIFER MAXWELL); DAVID VARLEY (THE BUNGALOW KITCHEN BY MICHAEL MINA)
“The Nonprofit Guide to Giving,” by Donna Berry Glass “In the December 2021 issue, on page 64, “The Nonprofit Guide to Giving,” you omitted mentioning the Museum of International Propaganda in San Rafael. This unique museum has been providing educational opportunities for high school and college students, as well as senior citizen groups, for the past seven years. Everything is free of charge to the visitors, as we are 501(c)(3), although the running of this institution costs us $3,000 per month. We’re shouldering the loss because we believe in the importance of political education. The museum does not propound any particular political point of view. Read an article about us in Pacific Sun. We were also featured in the Marin Independent Journal, San Francisco Chronicle and many guidebooks." — Thomas Areton
18 FEB RUARY 2022 MARIN
018 Letters/Mktg_0222_v6.indd 18
1/11/22 10:01 AM
Connect With Us
marinmagazine.com
EXPLORE • FOOD & DRINK • HOMES • HEALTH • ARTS & EVENTS • STYLE • TRAVEL • COMMUNITY • GUIDES & DIRECTORIES
TOP 3 STORIES ONLINE NAPA'S COOMBSVILLE
marinmagazine.com/coombsville
31 THINGS TO DO
marinmagazine.com/things-to-do
TOP GRAM MARCUS NUNEZ is a registered nurse in San Francisco by day, photographer by night. “Photography
NEW IN TOWN
has grown into a hobby of mine ever since I picked up a DSLR during a Black Friday holiday sale back in 2014,” he says. “When I have time, I occasionally stop by locations after work that I've previously scouted online. This particular composition caught my eye from a hike I did earlier in the week with my family. I knew I had to come back for sunset and the blue hour.” Look out for more of his scenic shots on Instagram @marcus_aureliuz. Want to see your photo in print? Tag us @marinmagazine with your best shot.
Sign Up Don't miss all the beauty and fun online too. Subscribe to the Marin Magazine Better Letter email newsletter at marinmagazine.com/newsletters and follow us online. @marinmagazine
@marinmagazine
@marinmagazine
marinmagazine
marinmagazine
marinmagazine marinmagazine.com/new-in-town
M A R I N F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 2 19
019 ConnectwithUs_0222_v2.indd 19
1/10/22 1:57 PM
In Marin / NEW IN TOWN
Eat, Drink, Shop — Repeat
New restaurants range from casual Italian from the Acquerello team to a family-run Central American spot, while new shops celebrate the joy of community and low-impact living. BY CHRISTINA MUELLER
Sorella A new restaurant from the team behind San Francisco’s two-Michelin-starred Acquerello arrived in San Francisco in December. The name, Italian for “sister,” reflects the same traditional Italian focus as the mothership with a tilt toward the contemporary. Cocktails utilize Italian spirits — the Italian 57 blends brandy and Sicilian blood orange gin with lemon and Prosecco — and share an all-Italian wine and beer menu. The cuisine, from chef de cuisine Denise St. Onge (Greens, Atelier Crenn) combines fine dining elements with a more casual format. The laid-back style starts with cicchetti like cacio e pepe potato chips before transitioning to antipasti (Parmesan budino with hazelnut and truffle — a classic carried over from Acquerello); bucatini guanciale pasta with kampot pepper and pecorino; and mains like striped bass with manila clams, fennel and sofrito. “After spending 32 years perfecting the fine dining experience at Acquerello, we are ready for a new challenge,” says Giancarlo Paterlini, Acquerello and Sorella co-owner and longtime Marin resident. “The time was right for us to introduce a more casual restaurant experience.” 1760 Polk St, San Francisco; 415.359.1212; sorellasf.com
EAT & DRINK Cocina Antigua With a sign that is hard to see from South Novato Boulevard, a familystyle Central American restaurant and market
opened last summer with 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, Novato; 415.895.5960
Sweetgreen The Los Angeles-based real food restaurant with 125 locations landed in Marin in December, planting an order-atthe counter fast-casual
San Ho Won In collaboration with chef Corey Lee (three Michelin-starred Benu, In Situ), head chef Jeong-In Hwang opened a restaurant in San Francisco’s Mission District that leans into the Korean foods of the duo’s cultural background. A tilt toward home cooking but favoring seasonal ingredients and modern techniques means classics like bibimbap feature seasonal vegetables and jjigae (kimchi stew), served alongside five-year doenjangseasoned clams. Pair it with a soju cocktail or a glass of chablis from the
European and Americansourced wine list. 2170 Bryant Street, San Francisco; 415.868.4479; sanhowon.com Yes, Pudding A memorable Thanksgiving dessert of banana pudding was the spark for owner and San Francisco native Quanisha Johnson to open a stand at the San Francisco Ferry Building that celebrates the joy of pudding. Thirty flavors, including almond croissant, butterscotch and brownie bread pudding, and seasonal cobblers such as peach cobbler á la mode, boast a center of vanilla custard, a base of butter-infused Nilla wafers and a crumble topping that must be tried to be believed. San Francisco Ferry Building, San Francisco; yes-pudding. weeblysite.com
SHOP Solstice Mercantile Tech may have brought entrepreneur Janabai Owens to Fairfax from
WANT MORE? Show your love for our local businesses. Check out new restaurants, shops and other openings at marinmagazine.com/new-in-town
HARDY WILSON (SORELLA)
restaurant in Greenbrae’s Bon Air Center. Look for the company’s signature plant-forward warm bowls (curry cauliflower, harvest bowl) and salads (kale Caesar, super green goddess) in sustainable packaging to eat inside, on the umbrella-shaded patio or to-go. 284 Bon Air Center, Greenbrae; 415.874.0012; sweetgreen.com
Sorella
20 F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 2 M A R I N
020-021 MARIN_NIT_0222_v4.indd 20
1/10/22 2:00 PM
Solstice Mercantile
HARDY WILSON (SORELLA)
L.A.’s Topanga Canyon, but Covid-19 demanded a career reconsideration. Opened in October, her new green general store reflects Owens’ passion for regenerative living, food resiliency and low-impact living with products that are plant-based, plastic-free and locally sourced. “We’re committed to building local resilience and reducing dependency on singleuse plastics,” Owens says. 50 Bolinas Rd, Fairfax; 310.945.6276; solsticemercantile.com Shop Visions As the pandemic got going, owners Erin Wright, Rachel Visger and Amelia Heron sought to create a space to foster community. The result in Point Reyes Station is one part shop, one part hangout spot, and another part place to learn and share ideas.
Shop for pillowcases and blankets, music, books and CBD products or swing by for one of their markets, workshops or live music events. Unit 14, 65 Third St, Point Reyes Station; 415.873.6002; shop-visions.com Citrine After raising a family in Larkspur, owner, designer, and movement and meditation teacher Karyn Holland extended the homey vibe into a storefront in town that opened in December. Named after the crystal which embodies joy, abundance and manifestation, the shop sells apparel, accessories and crystals and includes a Himalayan salt treatment room, wellness services and a movement studio for in-person and online classes. 489 D Magnolia Ave, Larkspur; 415.755.4027; citrineca.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.
M A R I N F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 2 21
020-021 MARIN_NIT_0222_v4.indd 21
1/10/22 2:00 PM
the LOOK P RO M OTI O N
LOVE IS ALL YOU NEED! Family Heirloom © heart pendants by Barbara Westwood, using your family diamonds and Beverly Hills diamond setters.
I. WILL. Make This Year’s Valentine’s Day Memorable. Yellow Diamond Three Stone Ring. Women Owned and Operated Jewelry Store. CALIFORNIA GIRL JEWELRY
Strawberry Village Shopping Center, #124, Mill Valley, 650.504.0646, californiagirljewelry.com
STEPHAN-HILL JEWELRY DESIGNERS
1226 Fourth Street, San Rafael, 415.459.5808, stephan-hill.com
AIR OF EARTH, 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
icepoppy@yahoo.com, 415.608.1004, icepoppy.com
combining ancient techniques with a modern aesthetic for custom and ready-to-wear jewelry. For those seeking to mix up their usual jewelry with something playful, unique and lovingly handcrafted. Adornment with Intention.
AIR OF EARTH
natasha@theairofearth.com, 415.408.8636, IG: @air.of.earth, theairofearth.com
22 F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 2 M A R I N
022 Adv.TheLook.0222.indd 22
1/10/22 2:01 PM
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
Peace of Mind Local instructors help new practitioners tap into the wellness benefits of meditation.
JAVIINDY/ADOBE STOCK
BY LOTUS ABRAMS
M A R I N F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 2 23
023-026 InMarin.CURRENTS.0222.v5.indd 23
1/10/22 2:10 PM
In Marin / CURRENTS
From eating healthy to making sure we’re getting enough sleep, practicing mindfulness is the new norm that has helped us stay sane throughout the highs and lows of our pandemic world. Among the many ways we’re focusing on self-care, however, mediation is one practice that — although it’s been around for hundreds, if not thousands, of years — continues to gain in popularity. It’s estimated that anywhere from 200–500 million people in the world meditate, a number that’s more than tripled since 2012. The explosion in the number of mindfulness apps, including Calm, Insight Timer and Headspace, further attests to meditation’s new mainstream appeal. Studies suggest the reason so many people are turning to this time-tested wellness tradition is the health benefits it offers, but that’s
only part of the appeal. “Of course, meditation can provide benefits of relaxation or stress reduction,” says Reverend Sozan Miglioli, president of the San Francisco Zen Center. “But it’s really about engaging with what’s happening in ourselves in the silence of reflection — that’s what makes it so powerful.” Still, for new practitioners, it’s best to leave expectations at the door, advises Miglioli. Much like starting a new workout regimen, it takes practice to experience the benefits of meditation. “It’s important to have guidance,” Miglioli says. “Teachers and practice leaders can guide you through the process.” There are plenty of local resources available — both in-person and virtual — for those who want to learn how to meditate. For example, the San Francisco Zen Center offers
programming at three different campuses: an SF-based temple, Green Gulch Farm at Muir Beach and Tassajara Zen Mountain Center in the Ventana Wilderness. Spirit Rock in Woodacre also offers meditation classes and retreats, and Novato-based Mindful One Meditation offers free online mediation classes until the studio reopens for in-person sessions. Many local fitness studios offer meditation classes as well, including Club Evexia, a new 16,000-square-foot fitness, health and wellness facility in Mill Valley. Daunted by the time commitment required to fit meditation into your schedule? Don’t be, reassures Miglioli. “The best time and regularity needed to meditate is the one that you can commit to,” he says, “even if it’s just for five minutes, three times a week.”
WANT MORE? Find out more about the health benefits of meditation, as well as places to practice, at marinmagazine.com/meditation.
TASJA KEETMAN
San Francisco Zen Center’s Green Gulch Farm property at Muir Beach offers virtual meditation classes (temporarily), as well as a kitchen and guest residency program.
24 F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 2 M A R I N
023-026 InMarin.CURRENTS.0222.v5.indd 24
1/10/22 2:10 PM
Match Points
A local celebrity matchmaker reveals what questions you should ask a potential match to avoid first date foibles.
LECHATNOIR/ISTOCK PHOTOS
Here in career-driven Marin County — and the entire Bay Area, for that matter — it can sometimes feel easier to land a new job than find a romantic partner, especially when first dates tend to go a lot like a Silicon Valley job interview. The problem is that many dates go south when singles don’t engage in meaningful conversation, says celebrity matchmaker, relationship expert and prominent philanthropist Amber Kelleher-Andrews, who is the CEO and cofounder of San Franciscobased global matchmaking firm Kelleher International. The firm has helped prominent (and often very private) singles, from successful executives and Hollywood celebrities to members of the British royal family, find their matches for more than three decades.
“Basic questions like ‘how old are you’ and ‘where did you go to school’ are not engaging — and no one wants to talk about their ex or what they do for a living,” Kelleher-Andrews says. Her advice for a better first date: Ask open-ended questions that demonstrate you’re curious about who the person is, which, in turn, opens up the opportunity to gain deeper insights and make stronger connections. Here, Kelleher-Andrews shares five open-ended questions that will spark conversation — and hopefully, romance, too.
WANT MORE? Learn more ways to navigate dating and relationships at marinmagazine.com/relationships.
• “Tell me what gets you out of bed every day?” A great way to learn about a potential match is to discover what moves and motivates them in life. “They may answer this question, ‘my barking dog’ or ‘my alarm clock,’ but hopefully they will see it for what it really asks, which is, ‘what are you deeply passionate about’”? KelleherAndrews says. Pay attention to the answer, she adds, as it should reveal your date’s morals and values, as well as open up the conversation to dive into other unexpected topics. • “Have you figured out the meaning of life yet?” Yes, this is a cheeky question, admits Kelleher-Andrews, but one you can also have some fun with. “No one can seriously answer this question, and that’s the point!” she says. “However, by reflecting on it in discussion, your potential match can
share insights and vice versa on spirituality, humanity and more. At minimum, you show a bit of humor by asking this, while carving out a path for a fascinating conversation.”
• “Who in your life
inspires you the most?” This is a common question children and teens are asked in school while growing up, but it stands the test of time because our mentors and heroes change as we mature, says Kelleher-Andrews. “By asking this question on a first date, you’re creating a great opportunity to see who they currently view as a mentor, hero or aspirational leader and why,” she says. “Depending on their answer, you can learn about their political views, family dynamics, celebrity crushes, or even a bit of their historical or political knowledge.”
• “If your future
was a blank canvas, what would you do with your life?” “I’ve made it a point to ask Kelleher International clients this question because it leaves room for a fabulous and intriguing conversation while on dates,” KelleherAndrews says. “It gives you a sense of their direction in life and if they have the aspirations to live large!”
• “What makes you unique?” There’s no better way to find out more about someone than to ask them point blank, stresses Kelleher-Andrews. “However, asking what ‘makes you unique’ differs greatly from ‘tell me about yourself,’ because you’re asking them to decipher their own uniqueness,” she explains. “What’s even better is that in their answer, you’re provided a sneak peek into where they place their importance.” LOTUS ABRAMS
M A R I N F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 2 25
023-026 InMarin.CURRENTS.0222.v5.indd 25
1/10/22 2:10 PM
Who to Watch in the 2022 Winter Olympics The 2022 Winter Olympics kicks off Feb. 4 in Beijing, and we’re gearing up for a winter watch party. Obviously, no winter competitor will ever be able to steal the hearts of Marinites like Jonny Moseley did with his famous dinner roll, but, hometown pride aside, there’s a lot to look forward to in this year’s Olympics. Here are some top athletes to watch.
Jessie Diggins
Hilary Knight Alysa Liu
Shaun White
MAAME BINEY Speed skater Maame Biney was the first black woman to compete on a U.S. Olympic short track team at 18 years old in the 2018 Winter Olympics. Now she will be competing for the gold medal in the 500m short track event. Look for Biney to deliver the U.S. its first medal in women’s short track in 12 years. NATHAN CHEN Fresh off his first-place finish at the 2021 Skate Canada International Challenge, three-time world champion Nathan Chen is looking for a podium finish in figure skating — especially since he didn’t make the podium in the men’s single figure skating event at the 2018 Olympics in PyeongChang, South Korea. JESSIE DIGGINS Cross-country skier Jessie Diggins can do it all — and she will this year. The defending 2018 gold medalist in women’s cross-country team sprint will likely compete in all six Olympic events. Diggins was able
WANT MORE? For more star atheletes both local and national, visit marinmagazine.com/sports.
Mikaela Shriffrin
to finish above seventh place in every event she competed in during the last Olympics, and she is aiming to do even better this year.
in Sochi, Russia. Last year, Shiffrin surpassed famous U.S. skiers Lindsey Vonn and Ted Ligety by winning her ninth World Championship medal.
HILARY KNIGHT Palo Alto native Hilary Knight will take the ice with her teammates this year to try to take home another Olympic gold medal for the U.S. in women’s ice hockey. The 32-year-old veteran and her squad are going for their second straight Olympic gold medal.
JOHN SHUSTER America’s leading skip (captain) in the sport of curling, John Shuster and the rest of his team will be back to defend their 2018 Olympic gold medal in PyeongChang. The 39-year-old star from Duluth, Minnesota, won a bronze medal in the 2006 Winter Olympics.
ALYSA LIU Entering this year’s Olympics at 16 years old, young prodigy Alysa Liu has already won two U.S. national titles in figure skating. The Bay Area native was the youngest American female to complete a triple axel in an international competition, and the first American female skater to complete a quad jump in any competition. MIKAELA SHIFFRIN Currently considered to be the biggest star in alpine skiing, Mikaela Shiffrin is a favorite in slalom and giant slalom. The 26-year-old from Vail, Colorado, took home her first gold medal in the 2014 Winter Olympics
BRITA SIGOURNEY Freestyle skier Brita Sigourney, who grew up in Monterey and went to University of California, Davis, is looking to capture her first gold medal in the women’s freestyle skiing halfpipe competition. She finished in third place at the 2018 Winter Olympics. SHAUN WHITE One of the most iconic faces in the Olympics world, Shaun White is back to take on his fifth Winter Olympics. The 35-year-old snowboarder has already taken home three Olympic gold medals in the Men’s halfpipe event. IAN LARNED
26 F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 2 M A R I N
023-026 InMarin.CURRENTS.0222.v5.indd 26
1/10/22 2:11 PM
SHOP LOCAL / In Marin
BE MY VALENTINE Treat your loved one to a romantic gift or memorable experience from Bay Area businesses. BY LOTUS ABRAMS
2019 Blanc de Noirs; $40 Belden Barns Farmstead & Winery, Santa Rosa; beldenbarns.com Toast your sweetie with this lovely brut bubbly boasting notes of citrus and dark cherry from family-owned Belden Barns, whose owners split time between Sonoma and San Anselmo.
Pacman & Ghost Caramels; $26 One Up Chocolates, San Francisco; oneupchocolates.com Gift your gaming partner these whimsical vegan and gluten-free caramels; each morsel is a different flavor, including strawberry (Pinky), red peppercorn (Blinky), and cardamom and ginger (Inky).
Lovesick Dusk Luxe Robe; $1,350 Evgenia, Nicasio; iamevgenia.com Made to order by designer and founder Stephanie Bodnar, this luxurious silk charmeuse robe with billowing French lace sleeves embroidered with copper polka dots just oozes romance.
Small Seasonal Arrangement; $85 The Little Flower Shop, San Anselmo; thelittleflowershop.co This local shop sources all of the flowers in its seasonal arrangements from California; for V-Day, think ranunculus, anemones, sweet pea, roses, eucalyptus and snapdragons.
Cheese Pairing Classes; from $95 The Cheese School, San Francisco; thecheeseschool.com Share your cheese obsession with your beloved at one of the Cheese School’s in-person classes; learn how to pair cheese with chocolate, sparkling wines and more, with killer views of the bay.
Chocolate Heart Box Filled With Confections Class; $125 per person Mon Rêve Chocolate Art Studio, Mill Valley; monrevechoc.com In this in-person class taught by Mon Rêve founder Pooneh Yamini, Feb. 11 and 12, attendees learn how to make an artisanal chocolate heart-shaped box and handpaint it with vibrant cocoa butter colors before filling it with confections — perfect for gifting. Stagg EKG Electric Pour-Over Kettle; $189 (as shown) Fellow, San Francisco; fellowproducts.com Pour-over perfectionists will swoon over this kettle that is as attractive on the countertop as it is functional, offering variable temperature control, quick heat time and precision pouring. WANT MORE? Find more great things to give your loved ones at marinmagazine.com/shop-local.
*check with stores for availability and pricing M A R I N F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 2 27
027 InMarin_ShopLocal_0222_v4.indd 27
1/10/22 2:17 PM
In Marin / AUTHOR TALK
Marriage, Murder and Betrayal Jo M. Haraf ’s history of a 19th-century Marin family is rich with research and delivers plenty of drama. BY JESSICA GLIDDON
James Black was one of Marin’s richest ranchers in the mid-1800s; his daughter’s wedding present was Rancho Olompali, which today is a state park. After almost dying on his voyage to California, the young Scotsman took a Mexican bride, built up a cattle empire stretching from Point Reyes to San Pablo Bay and had a daughter named after his wife, Maria Augustina. Tragedy struck when Black’s wife died at the hands of his son-in-law, a dentist who was a bit too liberal with chloroform. Overcome by grief, Black descended into alcoholism, which would eventually kill him — though not before remarrying a Pachecho family widow who would try to keep his vast estate from his daughter. This intriguing story of an influential Marin family features a multitude of photos and documents that author Jo Haraf discovered during her four years of research. It’s both a history book and an absorbing tale, capturing California’s earliest years as the state progressed from a Spanish colony besieged by Russians to a Mexican territory and finally, to an American state. Haraf has a degree in creative writing, is a regular speaker and is the editor and co-author of Journal Across the Plains, a history of the Verdenal family’s 1852 wagon train journey from Missouri to California. We spoke to her about her unique book. What attracted you to this story, and to Augustina Black in particular? Jo Haraf (JH): While volunteering at the Marin History Museum, I spotted the portrait of a striking woman. “That’s Augustina Black,” I was told. “She ate her father’s will.” The idea of a will-eating daughter captivated me. Why do you think this particular family’s story provided a good lens to understand some of California’s — and Marin’s — history?
Did you enjoy the process of writing this book? JH: Every time I uncovered another photograph, newspaper article or high school report card, the Black family jigsaw puzzle in my mind gained another colorful piece. For example, Augustina’s pearl earrings first appear in a birthday photo, reappear as she grows older, and end as a bequest to a granddaughter. These insights and artifacts that made the Black family breathe kept me researching and writing.
More Great New Reads JH: From the 1800s to today, California has welcomed those seeking new lives. Some of the individuals in my book arrived as sailors to become shopkeepers, cattle ranchers, or mercenaries defending San Francisco from invading Russians. Personal reinvention while seeking to better your family’s circumstances are timeless California traits. You mention in the book introduction that this is a work of “literary nonfiction.” Why did you decide to take that approach? JH: My first attempt at a pure history was, sadly, boring and oh, the torture of footnotes! I tried fiction, but embellishing the extraordinary realities proved to be gilding the lily. My literary nonfiction approach relied on facts and dialogue from letters, journals and trial reports while still giving me space to interpret. This is your second historical book. Why do you like writing about local history? JH: For me, Marin’s past is always present. As I drive or hike here, I wonder about the people whom our streets, parks and mountains are named after. I guarantee that after reading my book, you’ll never drive past Olompali State Park without remembering Augustina.
Braided in Fire by Solace Wales This book explores the drama that unfolded between Italian peasants and Black infantrymen of the 366th Infantry Regiment, whose lives were lost — or changed — by a battle in Tuscany. Not just military history, this book tells of the human toll of war. Wales will appear at Book Passage Corte Madera on Feb. 3 at 5:00 p.m.
Nom Nom Paleo: Let’s Go by Michelle Tam and Henry Fong This follow-up to the best-seller Nom Nom Paleo is a new collection of internationally inspired, umami-packed dishes — including keto-friendly, Whole30 and plant-based recipes. Tam’s unfussy recipes maximize flavor, optimize whole foods, and show photos of each step. See Tam and Fong at the Ferry Building Book Passage, Feb. 6 at 2:00 p.m. Reviews by Paula Farmer of Book Passage. WANT MORE? Discover more essential books to read at marinmagazine.com/books.
28 F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 2 M A R I N
028 Marin_Books_0222_v4.indd 28
1/10/22 2:18 PM
CONVERSATION / In Marin
A Healthy Future David G. Klein, MD, took the reins at MarinHealth as CEO just as the pandemic began. Now, he reflects on his accomplishments so far and shares his goals for the hospital and the health of the community in the years ahead. BY LOTUS ABRAMS
When David G. Klein, MD, took the helm of MarinHealth as CEO in the midst of the pandemic, he faced numerous challenges, from tackling the response to Covid-19 to opening a new hospital building. However, the former president and CEO of Dignity Health’s Saint Francis Memorial Hospital and St. Mary’s Medical Center was excited about joining the independent, community-owned hospital system because of the opportunities the role holds for making a positive impact in the community. Here, Klein, a Marin County resident, reflects on his tenure so far, and what he hopes to accomplish in the years to come. Can you describe the challenges you faced coming on as CEO during the pandemic? David G. Klein, MD (DK): I joined the organization just days before the new hospital building opened, when the staff was stretched to the limit with that transition, and they were dealing with the pandemic in full swing. It was a chaotic time to introduce new leadership into the mix, and a challenging time for me to dive in without disrupting important work in progress. In retrospect, the situation may have forced us to get to a strong working relationship faster than we would have under more traditional circumstances. For that, I’m grateful. How were you able to accomplish opening a new hospital during the pandemic? DK: This is challenging in normal times, and the pandemic compounded every aspect. Our teams had to learn new technology, acclimate to new systems, change workflows, learn new wayfinding, and cope with unexpected glitches and delays. The uncertainty and constantly changing precautions of the pandemic added to the stress. But I’m exceptionally proud of what we accomplished — the building and the launch were in no way diminished by the challenges.
What are your goals and priorities for the hospital and community going forward? DK: We’re rolling out a new five-year strategic plan that will take us into 2026. My priorities include strategic growth, efficiency, clinical integration, building on MarinHealth’s organizational culture, expanding our partnerships and stabilizing our finances. Moving forward, MarinHealth will work to address ongoing and pandemicrelated community health issues, including behavioral health. What do you feel is the most prominent health challenge facing Marin residents today, and how will MarinHealth address this issue? DK: Marin is one of the healthiest counties in California, and we’re fortunate to have an extremely high vaccination rate and low number of Covid-19 cases. That said, we also have a large aging population, so addressing the needs of our older adults is very important. And while I’m proud that MarinHealth has expanded its psychiatric programs, the shortage of mental health resources in our community continues to be top of mind. Lastly, Marin has great disparities across the communities we serve, and it’s essential to evaluate the social determinants of health and understand how to help the communities at greatest risk. I want to ensure that we provide a high level of services with access for all our residents, so no one has to leave the community for care. What are you most proud of in your first year at MarinHealth? DK: I’ve been amazed by the spirit of collaboration, both in our organization and the community at large. I’m proud of the dedication of our heroic frontline workers, who continue to work diligently despite the toll of the ongoing pandemic and potential danger to their own health.
David G. Klein, MD
I’m also honored by the huge outpouring of support from our community in ways both big and small. In addition, it’s been wonderful to witness the growth of our medical network. We’ve added clinic locations throughout the North Bay, including urgent care in Terra Linda, cardiology in Napa and Petaluma, outpatient behavioral health, and most recently, an orthopedic expansion as part of our alliance with UCSF Health. And I’m proud that we are not only maintaining the exceptional quality and safety of our services, but also that we’re seeing significant financial improvement. I think the future is bright.
Lotus Abrams is the editor in chief at Marin Magazine. She lives with her husband and daughters in San Mateo, where they enjoy hiking the area’s many open spaces protected by her favorite local nonprofit, the Peninsula Open Space Trust. WANT MORE? For more health advice from doctors and health experts visit marinmagazine.com/health.
M A R I N F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 2 29
029 InMarin_Conversation_0222_v4.indd 29
1/10/22 2:19 PM
In Marin / FYI
Boost Your Immune System Local experts explain how eating fermented foods can keep us healthy.
A
s you likely learned at some point in your education, bacteria are central players in human health. They can be bad actors, carriers of diseases like botulism and pneumonia, or be beneficial, helping us thrive. Science is learning more every day about the balance needed, both outside and inside our bodies, for optimum health. Certain streptomyces bacteria, for example, are used to produce broad-spectrum antibiotics. Many other strains of beneficial bacteria are desirable in the human gut, as they inhibit the growth of other microorganisms.
That’s where fermented foods come in: They help boost your microbiome. (“Gut biome,” or “microbiome,” refers to the collection of microorganisms, including bacteria, that live in our digestive tract.) Nan Foster, a Rossbased integrative health coach specializing in functional medicine and author of Gutsy: The Food-Mood Method to Revitalizing Your Health Beyond Conventional Medicine, notes that three-fourths of our immune system lives in the digestive system, making what we eat not only the most important tool in managing our gut biome, but a tool of utmost importance to our overall health.
How Fermentation Supports Immune Function Foster explains how it works. “Afferent nerves, including the vagus nerve, are used by the microbiome to communicate with the brain,” she says. Yep, you heard that right: Our guts communicate directly with our brain. “Microbiome health affects all parts of our bodies, including our psychology,” Foster continues. “There’s a lot we don’t understand about what is running us, but do know that we want a healthy flourishing microbiome. The gutimmunity connection helps keep us well.” Without going full Kant on the philosophical interpretation of “you are what you eat,”
PIXEL-SHOT/ADOBE STOCK
BY CHRISTINA MUELLER
30 F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 2 M A R I N
030-031 InMarin.FYI.0222_v3.indd 30
1/10/22 2:20 PM
think instead about what you should eat for immune health and well-being. Foods such as the pickles and kimchi from Point Reyes Station-based Wild West Ferments, alive with the beneficial bacteria that naturally occur in Marin, Sonoma and Northern California, are a good start. “We do not inoculate,” says owner Luke Regalbuto, who runs the business with his wife and co-owner, Maggie Levinger. The wild ferment, plus time, results in a competitive environment that develops a variety of bacteria “but primarily lactobacillus,” Regalbuto says. “Salt inhibits pathogens that lead to spoiling, but creates a hospitable environment for lactic acid bacteria, which preserve the food,” Levinger adds. Diverse Ecosystems Benefit Health In the ecosystem of a ferment done right, the good guys win. For gut health, we similarly want that ecosystem, that diversity of beneficial bacteria. The good actors provide strength in diversity. “It’s part of this dance — we’re engaging with this unseen part of the natural world,” Regalbuto says. “The season, soil and pack date all add up to a unique relationship that brings our guts into a symbiotic relationship with the soil that grows our food.” Living foods like sauerkraut age safely over time when stored properly, but the taste does change as the fermentation ecosystem changes. “Older krauts aren’t necessarily more sour,” Regalbuto says. “After a year or more, there may be some funkiness, a softer texture and a deeper, more complex flavor. The bacteria that produce most of the sour flavor are the ones that come in first and secure their future by making acid. Different bacterial species thrive at different stages of the product lifecycle.” Finding the Balance Stanford Medicine recently published a study noting that a diet high in fermented foods boosts microbiome diversity and improves WANT MORE? Find more ways to eat healthy at marinmagazine.com/nutrition.
immune responses. Foster notes that a depleted microbiome, common in Americans who eat a Western diet or the standard American diet, shows up everywhere: joint pain, brain fog, poor nutritional absorption and even inflamed skin. “It can show up anywhere in the body,” she says. However, there is no single food she recommends to people who arrive at her clinic seeking better health. “In general, I want them to eat lots of vegetables and real whole foods that look on your plate like they do in nature.” While she loves fermented foods for their built-in probiotics, adding them can make a problem worse. “The person might not be ready for probiotics,” Foster says. “We first have to address what might be an infectious situation or a leaky gut, food sensitivities, etcetera.” Her process to rebuild a healthy biome involves a five-step program that first works to remove any harmful foods and bacteria, and then repairs any damage before “re-inoculating” with pre- and pro-biotics and fermented foods as a final step in rebalancing. Small Steps to Feeling Better Small steps can make a big difference in any rebalancing effort. Native Marinites Dylan and Anna Lundstrom, husband-and-wife cofounders of hard kombucha brand Folksy, started drinking the beverage after their first baby was born as a way to feel better than they felt after drinking wine or beer. Dylan, who holds a Master of Science degree in viticulture and enology, notes that the initial ferment of kombucha includes a laundry list of active bacteria that drive the conversion of sugar to alcohol. While this is arguably where the health benefits come from, he notes that there is plenty of debate around hard kombucha and health benefits. “We take that base and go to a second fermentation, carried out by yeast, which consumes sugar to create ethanol that we take to 5%,” he says.
“It’s ‘better-for-you alcohol,’ fun to drink, and not as heavy to process because of its low pH and alcohol presence.” Like Wild West Ferments, the Lundstroms do not pasteurize their product. The alcohol inhibits some bacterial growth, working as a preservative. Refrigeration is recommended to slow down the bacterial growth and maintain product stability but does not stop it. The Lundstroms’ mindful brewing practices keep the pH between 3.3 and 3.5, refining the acid levels to make the solution challenging for any molds or bad actors. “The low pH also helps with stability — we work with a low pH, lower alcohol, active microbiology and a simple ingredient list,” Lundstrom says. Eat Plenty of Fiber While all sorts of beneficial bacteria support a healthy microbiome, a diet that’s based on diverse foods and fiber, especially resistant starches that ferment in the large intestine, is best to support good actors, Foster says. “Prebiotic fibers, including artichokes, lentils, inulin and green bananas, promote the growth of probiotics.” Regalbuto reiterates that, as fermented foods age, their flavors change — the new generations of bacteria continue to utilize foods’ fiber, as well as the nutrition generated by the original bacteria generations to thrive. This shift means that the product is still alive, still changing and still beneficial for supporting gut health. “There are many different bacterial species that thrive at different stages throughout the lifecycle of the product,” Regalbuto says. Your kombucha or kraut may become a little softer in texture over time, but the health benefits may also become even greater. Science’s knowledge about the health benefits of fermentation continues to evolve. Striving for a diet that supports gut health has proven benefits. How funky you like your cabbage, however, is a discussion for another time. 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.
M A R I N F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 2 31
030-031 InMarin.FYI.0222_v3.indd 31
1/10/22 2:21 PM
Longtime Marin City resident Flossie Berry, circa 1963
Mrs. Moses Brand, 1962
At Home in
Marin City
Richardson Bay, as seen from Marin City
32 F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 2 M A R I N
032-037.Feature_PoleHouses.0222.v5.indd 32
1/10/22 2:27 PM
Symil Austin, Tenisha Tate-Austin, Paul Austin and Kiran Tate-Day on the balcony of their renovated pole home in Marin City
A young family moves into a historic pole home, and leads a legal ght for housing rights. BY KIRSTEN JONES NEFF • PHOTOS BY JACQUELYN WARNER M A R I N F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 2 33
032-037.Feature_PoleHouses.0222.v5.indd 33
1/10/22 2:27 PM
court we’re building, the hiking trail right in the backyard… ” she explains, pointing toward the lush forested hillside above their home. “And you’ve got access to everything,” Austin adds. “The city is right there. The water is right there.” The couple was especially eager to bring their children up in a neighborhood that is nearly impossible to find in modern California: a multigenerational community. “There are very few communities like Marin City, where everybody knows each other — there have been generations and generations of people who grew up together here,” says Austin, who is the founder and CEO of the nonprofit Play Marin. “Kids can roam freely. In this community, we look out for one another. ” As Austin describes it, Marin City is a community that people tend to remain attached to, returning regularly for events and celebrations — even if they’ve moved away. “Marin City brings everybody back home,” he says.
This image and opposite: The Austin family home
W
hen Paul Austin and Tenisha Tate-Austin purchased an iconic “pole home” in 2016 — one of 300 wooden homes built across the hills above Marin City in the early 1960s as part of a redevelopment effort — they knew they were buying a bit of Marin City history. What they didn’t know was that they soon would be making history by filing a lawsuit to expose ongoing racism in the real estate marketplace. In early December of 2021, the couple joined the Fair Housing Advocates of Northern California (FHANC) to announce the filing of a lawsuit in federal district court alleging housing discrimination due to race in a loan appraisal process. To understand the Austins’ experience, it’s essential to understand the history of Marin City itself, and the bond its tight-knit residents share.
Moving Home to Marin City
Austin and his wife began looking for a family home in 2015, focusing on Marin City, where Austin was raised. “We wanted to buy here because of the sense of community, because of family,” says Tate-Austin, the principal of Miller Creek Middle School in Marinwood. “We couldn’t see ourselves in other parts of Marin. Paul had these things growing up, and we wanted the same for our kids.” Soon after the Austins purchased their pole home, they decided to remodel, making the open-plan kitchen and living room the centerpiece of the house and adding windows and deck space to accentuate the stunning views of Richardson Bay and the surrounding hills. “People have a picture of Marin City because they never come here, and they don’t really know what it’s like,” says TateAustin. “But if you talk about the beautiful view, having enough space to put a bocce court in your front yard, the half-basketball
The History of the Pole Homes
The strength of the close-knit Marin City community has developed over the course of decades, in part a response to systemic racism built into the history of Marin County. The unincorporated enclave, originally a dairy farm tucked into the hills of the Marin Headlands just north of Sausalito and south of Mill Valley, was purchased in 1942 when the federal government needed the 365 acres to quickly build housing to accommodate 6,000 of the 20,000 workers who migrated from the South for jobs building the Liberty Ships in the Marinship shipyard in Sausalito. Many of the southern migrants who came to work in the shipyard were Black, and, after the war, stayed in the area with their families. Unlike their white counterparts, these former shipyard workers and their families were prohibited from buying real estate in other parts of the county due to “redlining” (denial of access to loans) and restrictive racist real estate covenants. The original Marin City families remained in the workforce homes, but these structures, conceived as temporary wartime housing, deteriorated. In the 1950s, after a decade of fighting for permanent housing, elders This photo and above: Pole homes in Marin city
34 F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 2 M A R I N
032-037.Feature_PoleHouses.0222.v5.indd 34
1/10/22 2:27 PM
M A R I N F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 2 35
032-037.Feature_PoleHouses.0222.v5.indd 35
1/10/22 2:27 PM
in the community, spearheaded by, among others, longtime Marin City residents Jessie and Flossie Berry, finally got county supervisors to create a community development plan. In 1955, the Marin County Housing Authority purchased the land that made up Marin City from the federal government and, in 1959, the newly formed Marin Redevelopment Agency purchased 121 acres from the Housing Authority with the goal of building various forms of permanent housing, as well as a shopping center, schools, community center, churches, playgrounds and rec centers. The Golden Gate Village public housing apartments were part of this redevelopment plan, as were the larger single-family pole homes, which required a deposit of $300 and sold for between $16,000 to $20,000 at the time. Pole homes like the Austin’s became an integral part of the architectural legacy of Marin City, in the same way the Eichlers have become archetypal in the Marinwood neighborhood in San Rafael. The homes were dubbed “pole homes” at the time of their construction because they were built on stilts made from telephone poles. According to an account in the book Golden Memories of the San Francisco Bay Area by Steven Friedman (2000, Arcadia), there was some skepticism about the quality of these homes as they were being built. Residents who had immigrated from the South were reminded of the homes on stilts in their hometowns and were suspect of their design. “As it turns out, they’ve held up very well,” says Austin. “They’re very well-built homes. They all made it through the 1989 earthquake without
An Ongoing Struggle for Housing Rights
Across the United States, homeowners and would-be homeowners in predominantly Black communities like Marin City face an uphill struggle. In Marin County, historic redlining and racist covenants restricted Black people from buying in Tiburon, Mill Valley, Ross or elsewhere. Although those practices were outlawed in the Civil Rights Act of 1968, ongoing racist attitudes have continued to suppress property values in communities of color across the country, and have limited access to loans and mortgages. The Austins experienced this modern version of redlining firsthand in 2020 when, after significant remodeling of their pole home, they wanted to refinance their mortgage and sought an appraisal of their updated home. The initial appraisal of their home overlooking the Richardson Bay came in at $995,000, which seemed strangely low in the context of the Southern Marin real estate market. They appealed and were granted a second appraisal, at which point they had a white friend stand in as the homeowner, and removed all photos, art and other evidence of their family. The second appraisal came in at $1,482,500, almost half a million dollars higher than the first. It became clear that their home had been valued by the first appraiser at a lower rate because of their race and, as the Austins described Wyna Barron’s in a segment on CBS news that aired family home nationally in December, they were glad
MARIN NOSTALGIA (BARRON HOME)
The family playing bocce ball at their home
any issues, and better than other structures.” Wyna Barron grew up in the temporary wartime housing, and her parents, Theo and Vivian Barron, worked alongside the Berrys and others to get permanent housing built in Marin City. She recalls the excitement her family felt “moving into a beautiful spot with a beautiful view of the bay.” Today, Barron lives in the three-bedroom pole home her parents bought, and the Berrys’ granddaughter now lives across the street in their original home. Indeed, most of the Marin City pole homes that are still occupied by Black families have been passed down through generations, so Barron says the elders in the Marin City community were thrilled when the Austins were able to buy their pole home and move in with their two children. “We’re very happy when we see that any of the kids or grandkids are able to buy a house here,” she says. Austin grew up in the pole home near his current home, where his mother still lives. “Paul knows all the origins of the owners of all of these homes,” says Tate-Austin. “Some went into foreclosure, so went to the banks. Others were sold by family members of the elders. None of them, except for ours, have seen another Black family moving in, unless it was being passed down to the next generation within the family.”
36 F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 2 M A R I N
032-037.Feature_PoleHouses.0222.v5.indd 36
1/10/22 2:28 PM
to get the second fair appraisal, but the feeling was “heartbreaking.” The Austins did get a loan based on the second appraisal, but they weren’t able to refinance on the favorable terms that had been available a month earlier. “We missed out on a better interest rate because of the unfair appraisal we received,” says Tate-Austin. “And to prove that our civil rights had been violated, we had to erase who we were by having our white friend pose as the homeowner and hiding the things in our home that represent who we are. Even worse, these discriminatory practices have the effect of lowering property values in Marin City, which harms us and harms our community.” Caroline Peattie, executive director of Fair Housing Advocates of Northern California (FHANC) points to the difficulties people of color have in getting the loans and mortgages that make homeownership and the establishment of generational wealth through real estate investment possible. “Home buyers generally cannot obtain a mortgage, and homeowners cannot refinance a mortgage, without getting an appraisal,” says Peattie. “Neighborhoods of color have been historically undervalued due to deliberate racist housing policies, such as redlining. This ongoing undervaluation of homes in Black neighborhoods is, in effect, present-day redlining, and continues to widen the wealth gap between Black and white families.” This broken and insidiously weighted system motivated the Austins to join with FHANC to file a lawsuit.
This image and below: The Austin family home
Fighting Racism While
MARIN NOSTALGIA (BARRON HOME)
Preserving the Community
As the Austins’ lawsuit makes its way through the judicial system, the couple continues to update their pole home, including adding a rec and TV room for the kids and an additional guest suite downstairs. They’ve created the family home they’ve always dreamed of, in the Marin City community they love. As busy working parents and homeowners, the Austins carry the extra weight of the legacy of racism in Marin County, and in the country as a whole, a burden greater than any family should have to carry. As activists and local leaders, they’re committed to protecting the people and heritage of their hometown as well, following in the footsteps of generations of Marin City residents who have fought for the rights of their community. “It was due to redlining that black people were not able to purchase homes anywhere else in Marin — that was a law,” says Austin. “So now, how do we flip it and say, okay, Black people should be supported in buying homes in order to preserve the community they’ve built in Marin City? We want to keep the essence and culture of our community similar to what it was built on.” WANT MORE? The Austins make an incredible contribution to our communicty. Read about more Marin leaders at marinmagazine.com/local-leaders.
Kirsten Jones Neff is is a freelance magazine writer who has lived in Marin County for 25 years. She writes regularly about local people, arts, mental health, parenting, agricultural and environmental issues. To read more of her work visit kirstenjonesneff.com or follow @fullbloomday on Instagram.
M A R I N F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 2 37
032-037.Feature_PoleHouses.0222.v5.indd 37
1/10/22 2:28 PM
SOUPSTOCK/ADOBE STOCK
038-041.Feature_Sports.0222.v6.indd 38
1/10/22 2:29 PM
When the Kids Are Not Alright On — and off — the playing field, our kids are facing mental health issues in epic proportions in Marin County and beyond. Here’s what you need SOUPSTOCK/ADOBE STOCK
to know. BY DONNA BERRY GLASS
M A R I N F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 2 39
038-041.Feature_Sports.0222.v6.indd 39
1/10/22 2:30 PM
When Craig Flax, a longtime tennis coach at Redwood High School, discovered his teenage daughter potentially had an eating disorder, he was completely floored. She had always been a light and picky eater, and getting her to finish dinner could often be a chore, but they had chalked up her lack of interest in food to nothing more than a small appetite. Then, in her freshman year, his daughter was told she was “too skinny” to join the Redwood soccer team, despite her pronounced skill level in the sport. While the decision was frustrating, the rejection prompted Flax and his wife to take a closer look at their daughter’s situation, which led to a surprising diagnosis: She had an eating disorder called avoidant restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID). Unlike anorexia, ARFID isn’t associated with body image, but it does pose a serious threat to proper nutrition and development due to a persistent lack of hunger and the anxiety that accompanies it. Flax considers himself lucky to have discovered his daughter’s eating disorder and get her the help she needed before the situation led to more serious physical and mental health consequences.
Cause for Concern
Flax’s situation isn’t that uncommon, but not all parents are so fortunate to spot signs of distress in their children early on before they lead to a mental health crisis. Alarmingly, mental health concerns are becoming increasingly common in our youth across the nation. Both the American Academy of Pediatrics and the Surgeon General issued statements in late 2021 declaring that the United States is experiencing a youth mental health crisis, signaling a wakeup call that our children need greater support surrounding mental health. The crisis is apparent here in Marin County, too, which has one the highest suicide rates in the entire state of California amongst young people. According to the Marin County Suicide Prevention Collaborative’s annual 2020–2021 report, while residents between the ages of 15 to 24 make up only 10% of Marin’s population, that subset represents 44% of the county’s emergency room visits, 36% of hospitalizations and 10% of deaths. In addition, the report states, teenage girls disproportionately engage in nonfatal self-harm and suicide attempts that result in ER visits or hospitalizations, while boys — though they attempt less frequently — die at higher rates than girls. Of course, depression and anxiety doesn’t always lead to these dire consequences, but the data remains unsettling. Flax sees firsthand the elevated pressure kids in Marin County have to succeed and perform. “I’ve been around parents who are so focused on
having a winning athlete or a straight-A student that they have a hard time seeing what’s right in front of them,” he says. “Some kids handle that increased pressure with flying colors; for others, it’s a terrifying grind.”
Sports and Stress
While anxiety surrounding grades and friendships or an unhealthy relationship with social media can all contribute to mental health distress in kids and teens, pressure surrounding sports can also be a serious trigger, especially here in Marin. Steve Glass, who has been teaching and coaching kids in Marin and San Francisco for 30 years and played baseball as a young kid all the way through high school and into the professional leagues, points out that Marin County’s outstanding athletic programs set the bar extremely high in terms the number of schools and club teams in the county that have won major championships in a variety of sports. “But along with those victories comes a sense of ‘at what cost?’” says Glass. “We need to stay mindful of the precedent we’ve already set, and remember that the reason kids get into sports in the first place is to have fun.” Coach Jen Reidy prioritizes mental Jake and JT Peterson, who have coached health for her teams. football together at Tamalpais High, led CYO basketball teams and are co-owners of Studio Thirty in Mill Valley and Larkspur, maintain that sports are ultimately about personal growth and can carry lessons well into adulthood, but they also acknowledge that the sports environment is different than when they both played in their youth. “Today’s kids are subject to social media pressures that we didn’t face growing up,” Jake Peterson says. Unfortunately, sometimes it can be hard Dr. Michael Enenbach of the Child Mind for parents to recognize the onset of a menInstitute recommends that parents talk tal health crisis, says Dr. Michael Enenbach, to their kids and seek professional help clinical director at the Child Mind Institute if necessary if they notice any of these in San Mateo. “Mental health issues such as signs of mental health distress: abrupt depression and anxiety can literally appear to or drastic changes in eating habits or come from nowhere,” Enenbach says. “There’s sleeping patterns; increasing moodiness, already a lot going on with adolescents, and tearfulness or anger swings; atypical when they haven’t previously experienced obsession with social media and what feelings of anxiety or deep sadness before, others are doing; sudden lack of interest they often don’t know how to process those in school, friends or hobbies. feelings or talk about them. No one is immune; both low-profile kids, as well as those kids who • Bring Change to Mind, bringchange2mind.org seem to have it all, can snap. It’s often why you • Child Mind Institute, childmind.org hear about the captain of the football team or • Crisis Text Line, text MARIN to 741741 the head cheerleader suddenly making a • National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, suicide attempt.” 800.273.8255
Mental eal th Resources
• Newport Academy, newportacademy.com • One Mind, onemind.org • Side by Side, sidebysideyouth.org
Being Kind to Your Mind on the Playing Field
Several local coaches, including the Petersons, recognize the stress sports can put
40 F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 2 M A R I N
038-041.Feature_Sports.0222.v6.indd 40
1/10/22 2:30 PM
on young athletes, and are taking a proactive approach to emphasizing the importance of mental health. “We really work with our athletes to help them shine mentally,” Jake Peterson says. “With so many ups and downs in sports, we remind kids to focus on the ‘little wins’ and what they’ve done well — even if it’s just showing up to practice on time, running extra laps or refusing to pay attention to negativity from others. Focusing on what they’ve done right versus ruminating on mistakes makes a big difference.” Jen Reidy, a Marin-based coach since 2004, also makes mental health a top priority for her teams. When she founded Redwood High School’s field hockey program in 2015, she made mindfulness and mental health a cornerstone element by incorporating regular “Mindful Monday” or “Thoughtful Thursday” sessions into the weekly schedule. She asks each team to create its own mission statement, set individual and team intentions, and bring awareness to thoughts that might hold them back. Sometimes, she’ll send mid-week posts or challenges so the team can stay focused and reinforce learnings. She also ensures her players know they have a safe place with her to discuss anything troubling them, either with the team or at school or home. “There are parents who want a specific ‘transaction’ in terms of where they want their child to be in terms of sports performance, but it’s important for us to meet kids where they are,” Reidy says. As part of her consulting business, Winning Mindset With Coach Jen, she runs workshops and gives talks to teams, coaches and parents through her site and Instagram, offering tools, inspiration and strategies to foster a healthy, mindful approach to competitive sports and to build confidence.
Shattering the Stigmas
Fortunately, the dialogue surrounding sports and mental health is also beginning to change on the national level. When gymnastics superstar Simone Biles announced she was taking a mental health break from competing in the middle of the Olympic Games in Summer 2021, it was a shock to many. Despite the public pushback, Biles stood her ground and kept her focus on her mental health. Her move was a milestone for many WANT MORE? For more advice on helping those you love or yourself with mental health issues, visit marinmagazine.com/mental-health.
youth mental health advocates, including the Child Mind Institute, which presented her with a Trailblazer Award in November 2021. Other prominent athletes, including Naomi Osaka, Michael Phelps, Serena Williams and Usain Bolt have stepped forward to openly discuss their mental health challenges and steps they’ve taken to prioritize self-care as much as their physical prowess. A Harvard Business Review article examined how these outspoken athletes are credited with shifting the narrative around mental health and sports. What remains to be seen is if our own community can follow examples set by these high-achievers. Reidy hopes to inspire other coaches, athletic teams and clubs to take mental wellness seriously. “Coaches don’t have to be therapists, but they can be sounding boards for kids and guide conversations around having a posiRedwood High’s varsity girls field hockey team tive mindset,” she says. taking part in a positive “Imagine the impact if intentions exercise all of Marin’s athletic teams normalized these types of conversations and tools and made them more accessible to all.” Adds Glass: “We all need to keep in mind that sports are ultimately about life lessons. We, as coaches, are not just teaching Xs and Os — we’re teaching kids how to become better human beings.” Ultimately, Enenbach says, it’s parents’ responsibility to identify potential cues from their children’s behavior that indicate that they may be suffering from anxiety or depression, since kids, especially teens, don’t always talk openly with their parents about what’s troubling them. “Sudden changes in eating or sleeping habits; lack of interest in school, friends or previously loved hobbies and sports; increased tearfulness or irritability — these are all signs to watch,” he says. If you notice any of these signs, as a first step, have an exploratory discussion. But, Enenbach says, never start by asking, “What’s wrong?” Instead, use less pointed language, such as “I’ve noticed you seem withdrawn from (sports, school, friends); is there anything you want to talk about?” If a teen does share their feelings, show empathy and use language that communicates your concern, he stresses. “Don’t invalidate them or brush it off,” Enenbach says. “Really try to understand what’s going on.” And, if your concerns are serious, seek professional medical advice or treatment. Donna Berry Glass is a freelance lifestyle writer who lives in Marin with her family and avidly supports the California Academy of Sciences, a world-class science museum.
M A R I N F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 2 41
038-041.Feature_Sports.0222.v6.indd 41
1/10/22 2:30 PM
P ROMOT I ON
2022 Marin Magazine
Medical and Wellness Guide Marin County consistently ranks at the top of the list of healthiest places to live, and for good reason. Opportunities for outdoor activities abound, and we have plenty of access to healthy, locally produced food — not to mention the many talented health and wellness providers located right here. Read all about them on the following pages.
42 FEB RUARY 2022 MARIN
042 WellnessOpener_0222_v1.indd 42
1/11/22 11:20 AM
P ROMOT I ON
W ELLN ESS PRO FILES
TRENT D. DOUGLAS, M.D., STANLEY G. POULOS, M.D. AND YNGVAR HVISTENDAHL, M.D. Plastic Surgery Specialists 350 BON AIR ROAD, STE 300, GREENBRAE, CA 415.925.2880 PSSPECIALISTS.COM In 2022, we are excited to announce the opening of our expanded MedSpa at PSS, offering injectable , Botox, laser treatments, and more. Watch for our Pop Up specials for instant access to our specialists. Interest in nonsurgical treatments has grown and PSS is dedicated to fulfilling that increased demand. e are committed to offering the newe t devices to best serve our patients, and with that, the capacity to serve them in a timely manner. Three nurses and three doctors are here to answer questions from skincare to surgical alternatives. Beauty plans make regular Medspa treatments affordable. On the surgical side, PSS is unique in its ability to offer a team o doctors for larger surgeries to shorten anesthesia and aid in recovery. Our successful, nonsurgical Orbera Weight Loss Balloon can be the differentiator b tween success and failure for those looking to get healthier in the New Year. We’ve introduced a Testosterone program to help increase your muscle mass and energy level. Neograft offers permanent hair re toration and can be used for the hairline or bald spot, and even eyebrow and facial hair restoration. We owe our patients a thank you for the tremendous growth of both our surgical practice and Medspa —and a thank you to our team for their unfailing focus on patient experience and unparalleled results. Please call us for any of your aesthetic needs, or to schedule a complimentary consultation. Thank you for your continued support. Stay safe and healthy in 2022.
M A R I N F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 2 43
043-045 Wellness ADs.0222.indd 43
1/10/22 2:35 PM
W ELLN ESS PRO FILES
P ROMOT I ON
VANESSA TALBOTT, M.D., FACS, T. PHILIP CHUNG, M.D., FASCRS, MICHELLE LI, M.D., FACS, MICHAEL ABEL, M.D., FASCRS, LAURENCE YEE, M.D., FASCRS (AS PICTURED FROM LEFT TO RIGHT) San Francisco Surgical 3838 CALIFORNIA ST, STE 616, SF, CA 415.668.0411 1100 VAN NESS, STE 1040, SF, CA 415.923.3020 1580 VALENCIA ST, STE 607, SF, CA 415.213.7971 SFSURGERY.COM San Francisco Surgical is San Francisco’s premier surgical group specializing in colorectal, general and laparoscopic surgery. We provide comprehensive care ranging from the management of complex abdominal and gastrointestinal conditions to colorectal cancer screening. The scope of our practice includes treatment of abdominal cancers, inflammatory b wel disease, gallbladder disorders, gastroesophageal reflux, hernia , endocrine disease and anorectal problems. Our surgeons are pioneers in laparoscopic abdominal surgery and treatment of hemorrhoids, anorectal fi tulas and pilonidal disease. The practice was established in 1939, and we take pride in our history of surgical excellence and leadership. We are proud of our specialty training and our dedication to patient care. Members of our staff speak Chinese and Tagalog.
DR. JAMALI, STEPHANIE REEDER PRACTICE MANAGER, DANIELLE DAVIS PATIENT COORDINATOR, VICTORIA GRUSZKIEWICZ AESTHETICIAN Belle Marin Aesthetic Medicine 250 E. BLITHEDALE AVE, SUITE B, MILL VALLEY, CA 415.887.8718 HELLO@BELLEMARIN.COM You Deserve To LOVE Your Look. Lines, wrinkles and fat bulges are optional, no longer an inevitable and irreversible part of the aging process! Thanks to advancements in aesthetic technologies, you can tighten skin, reduce that muffin top and fit into a smaller jea size, and lift and tighten your jowls and crepey neck skin, all without surgery or extensive downtime. Belle Marin Aesthetic Medicine is driven to provide you with next-level results for every aspect of your appearance. Shouldn’t you entrust your vitality to the best in the business? Best-in-class treatments at Belle Marin Aesthetic Medicine: PDO Thread Lift, CoolSculpting® non-invasive fat reduction, CoolTone™ non-invasive muscle toning, Halo™ laser skin resurfacing, BBL™ HERO (a state-of-the-art IPL photofacial), Belle Transform (the no-downtime TCA chemical peel), PRP Facial and PRP Hair Restoration, Cellfina® cellulite treatment, ybella®, Chemical Peels, Clinical Facials
44 F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 2 M A R I N
043-045 Wellness ADs.0222.indd 44
1/10/22 2:35 PM
P ROMOT I ON
W ELLN ESS PRO FILES
TRACY EVANS MD, MPH, FAAD, FACMS BOARD CERTIFIED DERMATOLOGIST, FELLOWSHIP TRAINED MOHS SURGEON AND MEDICAL DIRECTOR OF PACIFIC SKIN AND COSMETIC DERMATOLOGY PACIFICSKIN.COM, 415.924.2055 MARIN, 415.202.1540 SAN FRANCISCO Dr. Tracy Evans has over a decade of experience in maintaining the health of her patients’ skin. As a skin cancer specialist, fellowship-trained Mohs surgeon, and board-certified dermatologi t, Dr. Evans is abundantly qualified to diagnose and treat ver 3,000 different skin condition , including acne, psoriasis, rosacea, and melanoma. She is also a master injector with an aesthetic eye for facial balancing (symmetry), using dermal fillers and advanced skin lifting techniques such as Y Lift and PDO thre d lift. Dr. Evans founded her private dermatology practice in San Francisco in 2008 and expanded to Marin County in 2016 to serve the health and aesthetic needs of her community. Dr. Tracy Evans and her team works diligently to help each patient reach their healthiest and most confident sel es. She takes pride in educating patients on evidenced-based procedures and the best clean-beauty skincare products. She maintains that “the radiance of a patient’s skin is a reflection of the health of their bod .” Call to make an appointment to reveal the healthiest, most radiant skin of your life! M A R I N F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 2 45
043-045 Wellness ADs.0222.indd 45
1/10/22 2:35 PM
CO FIN M AL IN P G HA SO S O E N !
The best of Tahoe is
outside your door.
Lakeside Living on Nevada’s coveted East Shore from $1.9 Million Enjoy the first full-ownership private community on Lake Tahoe in over 35 years. Our new collection of modern mountain homes grants membership to the adjoining exclusive club and private beach – just minutes from Heavenly Ski Resort. Phase 2 is nearly sold out, so book your tour today and discover why everything is right at the beach.
1 BEACH CLUB DRIVE, STATELINE, NV 89449 | 775.285.9444 | TAHOEBEACHCLUB.COM For complete legal disclosure please visit www.tahoebeachclub.com/disclaimer.
TaheoBeachClub_0222_FNL.indd 1
12/22/21 12:27 PM
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
Romantic Escapes Drive or fly, we’ve found eight destinations sure to light a fire.
COURTESY OF KOA KEA HOTEL
BY JEANNE COOPER AND MIMI TOWLE
Koa Kea Hotel, Kauai
M A R I N F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 2 47
047-051 Destinations.0222.v3.indd 47
1/10/22 3:02 PM
Destinations / GO
Looking for a little romantic getaway for you and your sweetie? There’s nothing like escaping the nagging to-dos of everyday life to remember why you fell in love. We’ve traveled far and wide to help you find the ideal spot, whether you prefer to stick close to home or venture across the globe.
The Stavrand, Guerneville
Drive GUERNEVILLE
One of the most popular LGBTQ+ oases for years, Guerneville is getting lots of media attention these days. For active couples, there are plenty of options here, from stand-up paddling or kayaking the Russian River to rambling hikes through the redwoods; it’s also known for antiques and really good food.
Stay: The Stavrand Perched on a hill just minutes from downtown, the former Apple Tree Inn has been reimagined by veteran hotelier Emily Stavrand Glick and her team, who worked through the pandemic to refresh the 21-room white stucco property. Many rooms have large soaking tubs or hot tubs, ideal for a romantic getaway. Walk the grounds or borrow one of the complimentary bikes to head into town,
just a few minutes away. Table for two: Start the morning off with Hedonic coffee and offerings of avocado toast, eggs and bacon from the celebrated culinary team led by Jeremy Clemens, formerly of Chalkboard in nearby Healdsburg. Lunch can be taken to go, or eaten in the dining hall, and dinner is a culinary event for the books. From $251; thestavrand.com
48 F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 2 M A R I N
047-051 Destinations.0222.v3.indd 48
1/10/22 3:02 PM
BRENDAN MCGUIGAN (HARBOR HOUSE); COURTESY OF BREWERY GULCH (MENDOCINO)
The Stavrand, Guerneville
Stay: Farmhouse Inn From the moment you check in and are offered your tasty complimentary snack, possibly paired with a glass of wine, this roadside-farmhouse-turned-hip-getaway will transport you and your person into your own luxe universe. Meticulously run by brother-and-sister team Catherine and Joe Bartolomei, who grew up nearby, the property has evolved into a noteworthy luxury boutique hotel since they took the reins back in 2001. It has won national accolades for its Michelin-starred dining room and lodgings that define farm-chic. Table for two: Be sure to book your mealtimes as soon as you make your reservations. Chef Steve Litke’s following is beyond wine country, and people travel to be wowed by his daily changing menu. Bonus for nondrinkers: With a bit of advance notice, the chef will prepare a tasting menu with nonalcoholic beverages sourced from the Bartolomeis’ farm. From $735; farmhouseinn.com
48,000-acre Jackson Demonstration State Forest, the location of this 11-room inn is prime for exploring the Mendocino Coast, but it also contains everything you need to stay cozy on blustery days. The light-filled living room with a massive fireplace includes Stickley-style furnishings, games, books and DVDs to watch in your similarly comfy quarters. Table for two: New executive chef Stephen Smith, whose credits include San Francisco’s Stars, prepares a thoughtful array of “wine hour” appetizers that can serve as a light dinner, and appealing breakfasts are served in custom redwood boxes to savor in your room or, weather permitting, on the patio overlooking Smuggler’s Cove. From $490, two-night minimum; brewerygulchinn.com Stay: The Harbor House Inn Of all the stunning views from Mendocino’s
Harbor House Inn, Mendocino
many inns, the panorama of enormous beehive rock formations in the ocean below the bluff here the 10-room Harbor House Inn sits might be tops. Terraced gardens and some 200 steps lead down to the beach, a walk worth making before dinner in the renowned restaurant. Table for two: Chef Matthew Kammerer earned two Michelin stars in 2021 for his ambitious multicourse tasting menus (up to 12 courses!), showcasing local seafood and vegetables cooked with fire, steam and smoke,
MENDOCINO
Winter and spring draw mushroom foragers and whale watchers to Mendocino, but any time of the year is ideal for a romantic idyll. That’s because the getaway starts with the journey here, via slow and sinuous Highway 1 or wooded Anderson Valley. Stay: Brewery Gulch Inn Framed by the redwoods and meadows of
Brewery Gulch Inn, Mendocino
M A R I N F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 2 49
047-051 Destinations.0222.v3.indd 49
1/10/22 3:02 PM
Destinations / GO
Fly KAUAI
Kauai has been the lush backdrop for Hollywood romance ever since South Pacific and Blue Hawaii, and couples can’t help falling in love with the Garden Island’s stunning foliage, beautiful beaches and gentle rhythm of living. Stay: Hanalei Colony Resort Toward the end of the road on Kauai’s breathtaking North Shore, this 5-acre, 52-suite beachfront resort is easier to reach now that highway repairs have been completed. It’s still a serenely tranquil enclave — the loudest noise comes from waves hitting the sand. Get a permit from gohaena.com to visit nearby Kee Beach or hike the Kalalau Trail in the
Hanalei Colony Resort, Kauai
morning, and relax afterward with a massage from the day spa. Table for two: The on-site oceanfront Opakapaka Grill & Bar caters to hearty appetites with ribeye steak, fresh catch specials and Wagyu roasted bone marrow among the highlights. Toast your ku‘uipo (sweetheart) with a mai tai featuring Kauai-made Koloa Rum, and save room for chef Charles Steppe’s chocolate mousse. From $419, two-night minimum; hcr.com Stay: Ko‘a Kea Hotel & Resort This sophisticated gem on the sunny South Shore lies discreetly between Poipu andKiahuna beaches. The 121 rooms all come with private lanais, dual showerheads in the marble baths, and plush robes and slippers, but spring for an oceanfront room to savor the views. The lagoon-style pool and spa are on the smaller Hanalei Colony Resort, Kauai
WANT MORE? Find inspiration for your 2022 getaway at marinmagazine.com/travel.
side, but like everything else here, they're exquisitely done. Table for two: Award-winning chef and Kauai native Noelani Planas has preserved Red Salt’s status as one of the island’s very best restaurants since becoming executive chef in 2016. The vanilla bean-seared mahi mahi with forbidden black rice remains a classic, while the adjacent sushi bar brilliantly showcases local seafood. From $639 (including $40 resort fee); meritagecollection.com/koa-kea
FIJI
A trip to this tropical nation of archipelagos, reopened in December to fully vaccinated travelers, begins with a nonstop flight from San Francisco. Private shuttles then whisk you to exclusive island resorts with even more options for private time. STAY: Royal Davui Island Fiji This adults-only, all-inclusive oasis off iji’s main island of Viti Levu offers 16 bungalows and villas with plunge pools dotting a 10-acre islet with gorgeous vistas. Snorkel amid a kaleidoscopic reef, relax with soothing massages, and book a private picnic on a sand cay for a getaway within your getaway. Table for two: All meals are included, with multiple delectable options, much of them locally sourced, highlighting Pacific Rim cuisine. You can also opt to dine in the ocean-view restaurant under a sprawling banyan tree, in your room or (by advance arrangement) on the beach. From $1,103, including meals; royaldavuifiji.com
COURTESY OF HANALEI COLONY RESORT
and inventively paired with regional wines and craft beverages. Overnight guests receive earlier opportunities to nab a reservation, but book both room and table well in advance. From $367, including breakfast; theharborhouseinn.com
50 F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 2 M A R I N
047-051 Destinations.0222.v3.indd 50
1/10/22 3:03 PM
Stay: Vomo Island Fiji On its own 225-acre island in Fiji’s pristine Mamanuca chain, Vomo Island Fiji hosts 34 luxurious residences and villas. Besides hiking, golfing and diving, you can book the romance package that includes a half-day on your own islet, a cabana at the adults-only beach club with infinity-edge pool and a massage for two, among other perks. Table for two: Breakfast, lunch and dinner at the main Reef Restaurant, featuring executive chef Michael Fosbender’s gourmet Pacific Rim cuisine, are included in room rates. Couples can also enjoy daily lunch or a twice-weekly Southeast Asian dinner at the adults-only beach club; private dining is also available. From $905, including meals; vomofiji.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.
Royal Davui Island Fiji
COURTESY OF ROYAL DAVUI ISLAND FIJI; COURTESY OF VOMO ISLAND FIJI
Vomo Island Fiji
M A R I N F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 2 51
047-051 Destinations.0222.v3.indd 51
1/10/22 3:03 PM
Concierge Matchmaking
Valentine’s Day is for loving others — and yourself. Whether you are single this Valentine’s Day or at any stage of a relationship — talking, dating, recently committed, years in — Valentine’s Day is about love. All kinds of love. So even if you are uncoupled, start by showering yourself with kindness, including enlisting the advice of a dating strategist who is in love with love. And maybe your next first date will be your las .
Innovative Match
A 21st century approach to dating combining technology and dating/life coaching expertise for three decades. 415.259.8714 • innovative-match.com
InnovativeMatch_0222_FNL.indd 1
1/11/22 11:19 AM
Out & About
CORY DEWALD
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
Nate Smith
M A R I N F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 2 53
053 OutandAbout_0222_v1.indd 53
1/10/22 2:48 PM
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
February Dining to Suit your Style
Formal tables for two at dusk or beyond might not be toast, but restaurants have changed — and so have our ideas of a good Valentine’s Day date. Dinner menus can now be enjoyed at lunch or dinner — some are even available throughout the month — and a movement to include singles, friend groups and families means it’s a great year to shake up your V-Day dining plans. BY CHRISTINA MUELLER
What’s Hot
Beach Chalet Valentine’s Day falls on a Monday this year, which marks Sunday, February 13, as the day to honor the patron saint of love with a strawberry rosé mimosa and pan de mie French toast brunch. Every seat has a view of the waves crashing on Ocean Beach and — as an added bonus — you can walk off a special meal at any time of day on the beach. 1000 Great Highway, San Francisco; 415.386.8439; beachchalet.com Beach Chalet
Novato Vino The Ghiringhelli family runs a pizzeria a few doors down but also operates this petite, wine-forward space. Sure, there’s parmesan truffle fries and s famous breadsticks, but why not try the smoked salmon sliders or the wild mushroom and goat cheese flatbrea for a special lunch? You could even splurge on the lobster mac &
cheese, but the added smoked bacon and shallot cream sauce tastes even better at dinner with a tall glass of chardonnay. 1535-E South Novato Blvd, Novato; 415.878.4915; novatovino.com Amelie Fairfax The all-day, French café concept from a team known for award-winning wine bars means fresh viennoiserie and
coffee in the mornin and “les verrines,” or small coupes of olives, peppers or mushrooms, during the apéro afternoon happy hour. At night, the casual vibe remains, but the menu of escargot, French onion soup and coq au vin leans into the owners’ heritage, with wines to match, of course. 71 Broadway, Fairfax; 628.253.5161; ameliefairfax.com
WANT MORE? Find the hottest new places to eat, drink and brunch — romantic or not — at marinmagazine.com/food-drink.
Depot Café and Bookstore Reading a book on paper is pretty much as retro as it gets, but the small bookstore adjacent to the café carries hot titles and a selection of NorCal hiking and history books optimized for the boot-clad crowds who descend here after a day on Mount Tam. Grab a seat on the wide plaza for some afternoon sun or hang out until fi e when the evening menu of house pizza
and meatballs kicks in. 87 Throckmorton, Mill Valley; 415.888.3648; depotcafeandbook store.com La Bande Aperitivo is a state of mind at the street-side café that is part of the Proper Hotel. The point of the flatiron building hosts a sun-splashed, black-and-white tiled café reminiscent of
days gone by and a few tables and tall barstools perfect for canoodling over a dish of razor clams conserva and a Kir Royale. Outdoors, the café tables are better suited to groups and larger dishes of truffle ham and cheese or halibut cheeks pulled straight from the plancha. 1100 Market St, San Francisco, 415.735.7777; properhotel.com
Novato Vino
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.
54 F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 2 M A R I N
054 WhatsHot_0222_v3.indd 54
1/10/22 2:49 PM
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
FEBRUARY BRINGS LUNAR NEW YE AR , SUPER BOWL SUNDAY AND VALENTINE’S DAY. CELEBR ATE SAFELY AT A NEW RESTAUR ANT — COCINA ANTIGUA IN NOVATO, THE CAPRICE IN TIBURON — OR WITH A FAMILIAR FAVORITE — THE HUMMINGBIRD IN FAIRFA X , SABOR A ME XICO IN SAN R AFAEL — ALL SERVING UP SOME OF MARIN’S FAVORITE E ATS.
CORTE MADER A 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 Boca Pizzeria Italian The Italian-inspired pizzeria with a covered outdoor patio at The Village utilizes Northern California’s bounty of seasonal ingredients and showcases local microbreweries and wine country’s boutique varietals. The menu includes appetizers, salads of organic produce when available, pastas, local free-range poultry and meats, desserts, and Neapolitan-style pizzas with house-made mozzarella. 1544 Redwood Hwy, 415.924.3021 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 World Wrapps Californian Owners Keith Cox and Matt Blair have revamped this “fast food” joint to feature healthy and flavorful items like a Hawaiian poke wrap and a tahini tofu summer roll that’s vegan-friendly. Tropicalstyle house-made beverages include boba tea, mango lassi and Vietnamese iced coffee. 208 Corte Madera Town Center, 415.927.3663 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
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 Mas Masa Mexican Chef and owner Patrick Sheehy focuses on the ancient technique of corn nixtamalization, using organic, non-GMO blue corn to make its handmade tortillas. The beer and wine lists highlight local California microbreweries and wineries. It’s all available to enjoy on the shaded patio. 31 Bolinas Rd, 415.529.5444
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 housecured pork belly has already developed a cult following. 23 Broadway, 415.524.8478
M ARIN FEB RUARY 202 2 55
055-067 Dine.0222.indd 55
1/10/22 2:50 PM
Out & About / DINE 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
Kale Caesar salad at Sweetgreen, Greenbrae
The Hummingbird American This New Orleans–style restaurant serves up Creole staples like fried chicken and waffles, shrimp and grits, po’boys, gumbo and beignets. Opt for the spicy syrup or homemade hot sauce to get that Cajun kick. Cash only. 57 Broadway, 415.457.9866 Village Sake Japanese Lucky for Fairfax, beloved former Sushi Ran chef Scott Whitman opened an izakaya, a Japanese-style 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
GREENBR AE AND KENTFIELD
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
Gott’s Roadside American The Bay Area chain’sonly Marin outpost features the signature Californiainspired dishes Gott’s is known for (burgers — regular, ahi and Impossible — shakes, salads and fries) as well as a 30-foot-long pine table for communitystyle eating and an expansive patio out front. 302 Bon Air Center, Greenbrae, 415.785.4233 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
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; sweetgreen.com
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 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 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 full-service 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 Marin Brewing Co. American Grab a cold beer made on-site and pair it with fish and chips — in this case, fresh cod dipped in Mt. Tam pale ale batter, served with steak fries and homemade tartar sauce — or anything from the allAmerican menu, then grab a seat at one of outdoor tables at the Marin Country Mart. 1809 Larkspur Landing Circle, 415.461.4677 Perry's American Perry's on Magnolia has the quintessentially American fare, bustling bar and warm
56 FEB RUARY 202 2 M ARIN
055-067 Dine.0222.indd 56
1/10/22 2:51 PM
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 Roma Antica Italian Pinza Romana, fried rice balls, burrata with artichoke hearts, and cacio e pepe pasta are just a few of the dishes that reflect the regional Roman ingredients and style of this sister restaurant to the San Francisco original. In Marin, look for fresh seafood pastas on the day’s specials menu and a shaded front porch for outdoor dining. 286 Magnolia Ave, 415.896.4002
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 Bootjack Wood Fired Californian A transition back to a bakery means hearth-style breads (apple walnut), breakfast sandwiches and pastries (cinnamon buns) from baker Cameron Esaryk are pulled daily from the built-in Alan Scott bread oven. Pair with barista drinks from Four Barrel Coffee and focaccia-style pizzas at lunch with the same Central Milling grains and organic approach as before. 17 Madrona St, 415.383.4200
NORTH BAY CANDLEWORKS X SAN FRANCISCO 100% soy and coconut wax candles in 4 of your favorite SF destinations - now available 615.540.9331 northbaycandleworks.com
Buckeye Roadhouse American Oysters bingo, baby back ribs and chili-lime “brick” chicken are a few of the satisfying comfortfood menu items that have made this classic roadhouse a favorite since the ’30s. The warm, dark-wood bar with red leather booths is a popular spot for cocktails, conversations or a light meal. Heated patio seating offers a moment’s respite with a fresh espresso and breakfast burrito from the weekday Buckeye Joe Coffee Kiosk out front. 15 Shoreline Hwy, 415.331.2600
M ARIN FEB RUARY 202 2 57
055-067 Dine.0222.indd 57
1/10/22 2:51 PM
Out & About / DINE Bungalow 44 American The normally bustling bar is one of Mill Valley’s hot spots, ideal for savoring a seasonal cocktail or an order for their famous kickin' fried chicken. The $1 happy hour oyster program still operates from 5-6 p.m., Monday–Thursday and the heated outdoor patio remains a town hot spot. 44 E Blithedale Ave, 415.381.2500 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 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 Flour Craft Bakery American The brainchild of pastry chef Heather Hardcastle, this second location (the first location is in San Anselmo) in the Lumber Yard offers not only glutenfree baked goods but fancy toast, seasonal salads, coffee and takeout to be enjoyed at one of the shaded picnic tables. 129 Miller Ave, 415.384.8244 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 Harmony Chinese Enjoy a lighter, fresher take on Chinese at this restaurant in Strawberry Village. The barbecue
pork bun is filled with house-made roasted meat in a savory sauce and signature prawns are wok-seared with scallions. Pair your pick with wine, beer or tea and be sure to check out the weekday takeout lunch special. Both the regular and to-go menus are available for takeout. 401 Strawberry Village, 415.381.5300 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 India Palace Indian Known as “that great restaurant in the Travelodge,” India Palace is a favorite with the takeout crowd; eating on-site is also a treat for its well-regarded North Indian fare. 707 Redwood Hwy, 415.388.3350 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 tofu tostada. A colorful interior and quick service make this a fun, easy stop. 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
Kitchen Sunnyside American This brunch stop brings some gourmet to your morning with options like Dungeness crab hash, cornflake French toast, eggs Florentine and bottomless mimosas. Lunch choices like paninis and burgers are also available for enjoying on the open-air patio. 31 Sunnyside Ave, 415.326.5159 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. 127 Throckmorton Ave, 415.388.0224 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 Prabh Indian Kitchen Indian Owned and operated by the Dhindsa family, this restaurant emphasizes healthy, organic, sustainable eating in choices like chicken pakora, vegetable biryani and basil-garlic naan, with options for the vegan and gluten-free. At lunch, the thali menu lets you try several Indian dishes at once. All of it is available for dining on their outside patio. 24 Sunnyside Ave, 415.384.8241 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 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
5 8 FEB RUARY 202 2 M ARIN
055-067 Dine.0222.indd 58
1/10/22 2:51 PM
We Believe Superior Housekeeping Is Essential 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 Sol Food Puerto Rican This Marin favorite serves up everyone’s favorite Puerto Rican cuisine, including Creole prawns, mofongo maduros, tostones and a chuleton sandwich on French bread. The line for takeout can get long, but at least its outside. 401 Miller Ave, 415.380.1986 Tamalpie Italian With views of Mt. Tamalpais from the covered, heated patio, this CalItalian spot known for its local sourcing also features two fireplaces and a full bar serving craft cocktails, wine and beer. The difference is in the pizza dough — small batch, house-made gluten-free and 48-hour Neapolitan — plus large salads, pastas, and vegan and vegetarian items. The Brussels sprouts are supercrispy and not to be missed. 477 Miller Ave, 415.388.7437 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 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 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 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 Urban Remedy American This is a popular spot for organic and non-GMO coldpressed juices, snacks, ready-to-eat meals and raw deserts, with plenty of gluten-free, grain-free and lowglycemic-index choices.
We are fully vaccinated!
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
SMALL SCHOOL
BIG IMPACT
Small by Design
College Prep high school with a creative approach
Confidence, Creativity, & Academic Excellence since 1981
Go beyond the mountains of busywork and endless, repetitive homework. TMS curriculum prioritizes engagement and collaboration.
The Marin School | San Rafael, CA | (415) 339-9336
Small class sizes (an average of 8), allow students equal opportunities for support, challenge, and meaningful interactions with teachers and peers.
Rolling Admissions through 2022. Schedule your campus tour today!
www.themarinschool.org/visit
M ARIN FEB RUARY 202 2 59
055-067 Dine.0222.indd 59
1/10/22 2:51 PM
Out & About / DINE 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
NOLA burger at The Rock & Rye, Mill Valley
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
Try the namesake salad or give the cashew milk with cinnamon and vanilla a shot to see what Urban Remedy is all about. Delivery and ordering only via their app. 15 E Blithedale Ave, 415.383.5300 Watershed Californian Gather around the fire pit in front of the restaurant at the Lumber Yard or hang out at the long bar for a pre-dinner glass of wine before sampling one of the many dishes curated to reflect the bounty of Marin. The Stemple Creek Ranch burger and fresh pastas are matched with a bevy of simply prepared, easyto-share dishes (like spicy rock cod lettuce cups or lamb riblets) that reflect chef Kyle Swain’s careful sourcing and focus on local flavor. 129 Miller Ave, 415.888.2406
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 Beso Bistro and Wine Bar Californian This Hamilton Field bistro highlights locally sourced organic produce, fresh sustainable seafood, and pastureraised and free-range meat. Wine lovers can embrace their inner Dionysus — more than 20 selections by the glass and more than 50 by the bottle are available. The patio is naturally shaded by local oaks. 502 S Palm Drive, 415.883.6700 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 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
Ghiringhelli’s Novato Vino American The Ghiringhelli family, lifelong Marin residents who own Trattoria Ghiringhelli in Novato, FairFix Cafe, Ghiringhelli Pizzeria and Deer Park Villa in Fairfax, added a new wine shop and tasting room adjacent to their Novato restaurant. Unique and hard-to-find wines by the bottle or taste, light bites of cheese boards and flatbreads and indepth dinner menus are available to go or enjoy onsite. 1535 South Novato Blvd, 415.878.4915 Jennie Low’s Chinese Choose from Cantonese, Mandarin, Szechuan and Hunan cuisines, and if you don’t see your favorite, let the restaurant know; whenever possible, they’re happy to try and prepare dishes off-menu. The potstickers are the best around. 120 Vintage Way, 415.892.8838 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 (breakfast sandwich, Swedish pancake stack) and there is picnic-style shaded seating outside, too. 7380 Redwood Blvd, 415.895.5592 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 2019 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 Rustic Bakery Californian Organic pastries, breads, salads and sandwiches are on the menu at this location downtown, including daily seasonal specials. Try the Marin melt — Cowgirl Creamery’s Mt. Tam and Point Reyes Toma cheeses grilled on honey whole wheat, served with dressed baby greens and crisp apple slices. It’s even better on the patio. 1407 Grant Ave, 415.878.4952 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.
60 FEB RUARY 202 2 M ARIN
055-067 Dine.0222.indd 60
1/10/22 2:51 PM
d est. 1975
rin g
oo
su
c hil
dh
preschool-8th grade | larkspur, ca visit mpms.org to schedule a tour S C PE IA L 20
How’s the Market?
22 ED IT IO N
Cucina sa Italian Open for lunch Wednesday– Saturday and six nights a week for dinner, takeout or delivery. Homemade pastas, seasonal salads 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
hool • sc
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 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”
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. 22 Ross Common, Ross, 415.771.4252
& midd ary le im
a
Center Depot Street Food & Drinks Breakfast From a vintage camper, 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
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
tre
Bistro Viz Californian After a two-year hiatus, owner-chef Soo Young Kim brought back this petite restaurant with bistro favorites and a focus on local. Though ingredients often change with the seasons, squash blossoms stuffed with makrut lime and Thai curry-infused wild salmon, vegetarian fritto misto and halibut with romesco and garliclemon yogurt inspire return visits. The lightbedecked patio is cozy, even with fog or rain’s chill. 115 San Anselmo Ave, San Anselmo, 415.902.9084
Come explore with us!
pr
SAN ANSELMO AND ROSS
by fans) and roast chicken enchiladas. 335 San Anselmo Ave, San Anselmo, 415.454.9840
• marin
504 Alameda del Prado, 415.883.7793
Listen in at RealEstateInMarin.com
Scan With Phone to Listen In:
Patricia Oxman
#1 Agent in Marin County by Transactions, 2020 Golden Gate Sotheby’s International Realty 415.461.4100 | Patricia.Oxman@sir.com Lic.# 01103895
M ARIN FEB RUARY 202 2 61
055-067 Dine.0222.indd 61
1/10/22 2:51 PM
Out & About / DINE 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 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. 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 Marinitas Mexican This sister restaurant of Insalata’s continues to flourish as a bastion of creative Mexican and Central and South American cuisine. Not your typical southof-the-border spot, it serves up top-notch margaritas and Latin lusciousness. 218 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, San Anselmo, 415.454.8900 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
Marche Aux Fleurs French A local favorite known for its seasonal cuisine and extensive marketplace showcasing locally farmed produce, wild and fresh seafood and free-range meats prepared with an artisan’s touch, accompanied by a lengthy wine and beer list. Thursday night is hamburger night; requesting your burger with your reservation is recommended (quantities are limited), available on the patio, too. 23 Ross Common, Ross, 415.925.9200 Sushi 69 Japanese Opened in 2007, Sushi 69 has been a favorite for locals looking to get their fill of no-frills sushi. The owner hails from Japan and has created an extensive menu featuring traditional tempura and the popular Hiro’s roll (spicy tuna with avocado, salmon and ponzu sauce wrapped in sushi rice). 69 Center Blvd, San Anselmo, 415.459.6969 The Baan Thai Thai Known for its mango sticky rice, crispy corn 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 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 Amici’s East Coast Pizzeria Californian A wide array of thin-crust pizzas, freshly made pastas and salads are the ticket here, along with flame-roasted lemon chicken wings (they are "atomic"). Gluten-free pizza crust is available. 1242 Fourth St, 415.455.9777 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 Bogie's Too American Relocated from the Civic Center to downtown San Rafael after 29 years, this second coming of Bogie’s highlights breakfast, brunch and lunch. Organic eggs anchor a breakfast and
lunch menu of omelets, sandwiches and salads that Humphrey Bogart himself might recognize. They are famous for the eggs Benedict and a full spirits menu, a la "Rick's Cafe." 1335 Fourth St, 415.492.1530 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, San Rafael; 415.785.7487 California Gold American Death Proof, a “lethal” blend of dark rum, calvados, orange and aromatic bitters, is
just one of the pre-tiki, handmade drinks that highlight the cocktail menu in the slickly comfortable space, decked out in a style befitting the Roaring Twenties. The drinks range from California beer styles on the 12 taps to globally sourced wines. Fresh cocktails, like the tropical, smash and thunderbolt, feature produce sourced from the San Rafael farmers’ markets. Enjoy them at an outdoor table with a meal from neighbor Revel & Roost. 848 B St, 707.337.6159 Caribbean Spices Caribbean Jerk chicken with just the right amount of heat is a menu highlight at this brick-and-mortar San Rafael extension of chefowner Frantz Felix’s food truck of the same name. Go for the Caribbean sangria and Haitian specialties like griot or goat curry and African American–inspired versions of creole snapper and seafood gumbo, then savor your meal at a sidewalk table. 819 Fourth St, 415.299.2680 Flatiron American The remodeled Flatiron is where refined American bar food lives happily in its ideal environment — with a bevy of craft beers. Owned by the Strickers, a husband-and-wife duo, this polished sports bar serves noshes like chililime cauliflower, classic sandwiches, and truffle and waffle fries in a space that also features classic arcade games. 724 B St, 415.453.4318 Gaspare’s Italian Carved Moroccan-style plasterworks grace the foyer at this boisterous, two-room spot. The room to the left hosts a
62 FEB RUARY 202 2 M ARIN
055-067 Dine.0222.indd 62
1/10/22 2:51 PM
busy bar where an Italian cosmo cocktail is topped with prosecco but any place is fine to try homemade gnocchi, veal scaloppini, or a Sicilian style pizza with eggplant and feta. 200 Merrydale Rd, 415.472.7101 Il Davide Italian The large selection of innovative and classic Tuscan dishes and house-made pasta has kept locals coming back for years. Ingredients are organic and locally sourced where possible, and there’s a vast selection of both Italian and California wines by the glass. Heated outdoor dining and curbside pickup are available and a private party dining room accommodates up to 45. 901 A St, 415.454.8080
La Toscana Ristorante & Bar Italian Family owned and operated since 1985, La Toscana completed an extensive interior and exterior renovation, transforming an already popular San Rafael gathering spot into a place for any occasion. The menu features classics like gnocchi and carbonara and an ample selection of wine. 3751 Redwood Hwy, 415.492.9100 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 Le Chalet Basque French This family-style place features dishes inspired by the Basque regions of France and Spain, like frog legs in a garlic butter and lemon sauce, a veal calf liver sauté and sweetbreads with port wine sauce and mushrooms. On a warm night, enjoy alfresco dining on the patio. 405 North San Pedro Rd, 415.479.1070 Le Comptoir French In the heart of San Rafael, the bistro, complete with bright red chairs and a small adjoining grocery, serves up traditional
French favorites like beef cheeks bourguignon and onion soup gratinée in a chic and cozy setting. 1301 Fourth St, 415.454.5454 Lotus Cuisine of India Restaurant Indian Take comfort in awardwinning Indian cuisine from a long-running, family-owned restaurant that is also a certified green business with a state-of-the-art, energyefficient kitchen and eco-friendly appliances. Open daily for lunch and dinner at their new Fourth Street location, one block from their old address. There is an abundance of organic vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free options, not to mention their famous all-you-can-eat lunch buffet, wine and beer. A new pet-friendly patio
fronts Fourth Street, while the family’s adjacent Lotus Market Indian Grocery on Fifth Street means free parking in the back. 812 Fourth St, 415.456.5808 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 fried chicken bomb sandwich with firecracker aioli and serrano pickle slaw. 1016 Court St, 415.521.5591 Masala Kitchen Indian Cuisine Indian Into a quiet corner of
Montecito Plaza comes the latest from coowner and chef Timothy Maharjan and co-owner and manager Atit Subba who serve up the varied cuisines and techniques of the Indian diaspora. A tandoor oven turns out chicken, shrimp and lamb kebabs and extensive selection of naan, roti and other breads. Chicken tikka masala and masala chai are already local favorites, also served on the petite patio. 227 Third St, 415.526.3161 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
M ARIN FEB RUARY 202 2 63
055-067 Dine.0222.indd 63
1/10/22 2:52 PM
Out & About / DINE Stephanie Martens has a rotating list of beers on tap from brewer Trevor, pop-up food from local businesses in the beer garden, and snacks at the bar. 1848 Fourth St, 415.524.8709
Hummus with smoked paprika and oven-roasted cherry tomatoes at Zalta Mediterranean, Sausalito
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
of premium Scotches, small-batch bourbons and more than 50 wines from California vineyards. McInnis Park, 415.491.5959 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 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 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 Pho Viet Vietnamese Of course you come for the namesake bowl of hearty soup with clear broth, beef, noodles and vegetables at this Best of the County winner. But the family-style favorite tucked behind a carpet store on an industrial stretch of Francisco Boulevard beckons with beautiful plates of pork chops with broken steamed rice and fried eggs as well as the fresh spring and imperial rolls. 555 E. Francisco Blvd, Suite 22, 415.455.8063 Pond Farm Brewing American The microbrewery in the West End from husband-andwife team Trevor and
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 Rocket Roll Japanese There are plenty of fusion restaurants around, but not many that blend Mexican and Japanese. Rocket Roll offers everything from a spicy tuna rice bowl to yellowfin or salmon sashimi “sushi burritos.” Smoothies like the
avocado fresher round out the menu. 1109 Fourth St, 415.866.0537 Sabor a Mexico Mexican Fresh margaritas know no border, while salmon fish tacos are topped with chopped onion and cilantro a la Distrito Federal and a pambazo, a sandwich stuffed with chorizo and potato is done up with a Jaliscan-style sauce. A six-table patio offers outdoor seating. 1559 Fourth St, 415.306.9404 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 take-home growlers; beer flights are also available. The menu, created by Alex Stricker and Andrew Toy, changes seasonally and includes a burrata cheese BLT and sashimigrade tuna poke. 1132 Fourth St, 415.295.7929 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
6 4 FEB RUARY 202 2 M ARIN
055-067 Dine.0222.indd 64
1/10/22 2:52 PM
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 Whipper Snapper Restaurant Caribbean Owner/chef Bill Higgins serves tapas, sangria and reasonably priced organic dishes. The California-Caribbean lunch and dinner cuisine blends local farmfresh ingredients with Latin flavors. Be sure to try the popular fish tacos, Cuban “cigars” and chocolate bread pudding. Available for parties and special gatherings, plus a back patio for alfresco dining. 1613 Fourth St, 415.256.1818 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
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 Barrel House Tavern Californian Stop by Barrel House for a feeling of rising above it all (it's on the second floor) where the soaring ceiling work reflects the restaurant's name. The barrel-aged cocktails are worth a visit (try the Negroni) but dishes like maitake mushroom flatbread and tartare tacos reflect a locally focused ethos that is enhanced by the cool setting and fantastic bay and city views. 660 Bridgeway, 415.729.9593
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
Bump Bar Californian The bar and cafe boasts an intimate 12 seats facing the kitchen, an array of sustainably sourced caviar and roe and a seafood-centric menu that makes the most of the sea’s briniest delight. Stick with the traditional presentation and delight in tiny bubble bursts atop blini, egg, creme fraiche and minced red onion or go all out with the seven-course tasting menu. Plates like binchotan grilled lobster with herbs or black cod topped with truffles, as well as the aforementioned easy-to-pop eggs, make this a great place for a bite and a glass of bubbly or to savor an extended caviar experience. 1403 Bridgeway, 415.332.0826
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
Copita Mexican Co-owner Joanne Weir and chef Daniel Tellez present fresh Mexican fare in the heart of downtown Sausalito. The ever-changing menu
45%
of respondents in a recent survey stated that moving is the most stressful life event, more than marriage, having children or a new job!
Experience the most Convenient In-Home Personal Training service in the Bay Area! • Full Gym brought right to your home, eliminating equipment storage clutter • No driving to the gym = time saved to focus on your move • Certified Professionals with Speciality Certifications to Fit All Client Needs Visit www.TheBayFitness.com to start today! 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 Davey Jones Deli American Stationed in the New Bait Shop Market, Davey Jones Deli offers houseroasted sandwich meats, healthy condiments and local, organic vegetables; the deli serves sandwiches, veggiewiches, wraps and salads with vegetarian, vegan and meat-lover options. Because the sandwiches are so
generous, this easy stop is a must during a day of boating, biking, hiking and general adventuring around Marin. It stays open late, too, for those nights when you need a sandwich and a soda around midnight. Gate 6 Rd, 415.331.2282 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. Though cash is still king, credit cards are now accepted (woot!). 350 Harbor Drive, 415.331.3474 Joinery American This large waterfront restaurant’s broad patio, big salads and shareable plates make it a destination for families and other groups. Order at the front, and then
M ARIN FEB RUARY 202 2 65
055-067 Dine.0222.indd 65
1/10/22 2:52 PM
Out & About / DINE grab a seat to enjoy the craft beer, Joinery or Impossible burger, rotisserie chicken and other hearty, seasonal fare. 300 Turney St, 415.766.8999 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 Le Garage French Escape the tourist crush for an indulgent meal right on the water in a spacious room that was once, well, you know. The atmosphere is animated with light French music (à la Amélie) and plenty of natural light from the often-open garage door. A Niçoise salad is gussied up with white anchovies and the croque monsieur oozes with Gruyere and mustard-infused bechamel sauce. Escargot, tucked into puff pastry, is easily reheated at home. 85 Liberty Ship Way, 415.332.5625 Lighthouse American Weekend classic breakfasts — eggs Benedict, fruit pancakes, a Norwegian omelet with smoked salmon — are the little engine that could for this restaurant on Harbor Point, with long lines to be expected. Locals head over on weekdays for Nordic-inspired lunch and dinner fare; try the meatballs or the burger topped with horseradish, capers and beets. 1311 Bridgeway, 415.331.3034
Mint n Chili American The former BBQ ‘n’ Curry House, tucked into a corner in Marin City’s shopping center, changed its name to reflect a menu refreshed with a tandoori soul and curry at its heart. Owner Shahid Paracha fuses Indian and Pakistani food traditions with Marin’s love of beef burritos, chicken tacos, and veggie bowls. There’s even a burger and a lamb cheesesteak. 160 Donahue St, 415.289.0786 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 Napa Valley Burger Company American Incorporating local, all-natural and organic produce and meats, burger is the word at this casual joint. Though chicken, beef and turkey are all options, the James Beard Competition Burger blends beef with mushrooms and parmesan for a gentler-on-the-planet, just-as-delicious burger option. Of course, there are fries and root beer floats, all available at outdoor and indoor tables. 670 Bridgeway, 415.332.1454 Osteria Divino Italian Authentic Florentine cooking with an eye on local and seasonal
means fresh fare all year long. The extensive artisan pasta selection includes vegan and vegetarian options and a breakfast menu includes frittatas and English muffin sandwiches. Live music on Friday and Saturday evenings lifts everyone’s spirits. 37 Caledonia St, 415.331.9355 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 Seahorse Italian The spacious dining area, dance floor and stage make Seahorse ideal for celebrations large and small. Enjoy a modern twist on classic Tuscan coastal cooking while grooving to the nightly live music and entertainment in a historic building. 305 Harbor Drive, 415.331.2899 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 Sushi Ran Japanese Sample innovative small plates just big enough to share before enjoying some of the best sushi the Bay Area has to offer; the prices don’t deter the herd of enthusiasts who line up nightly to partake. Just stopping by? The wine, cocktail and sake lists keep even the pickiest barfly satisfied. Reservations are a must for the main room. 107 Caledonia St, 415.332.3620
The Trident Seafood Set in a turn-of-the-century building constructed for 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 Tommy’s Wok Chinese Fresh ingredients, free-range chicken and traditional dishes fulfill the Chinese food craving with a nice atmosphere for dining in and great takeout for a night at home. 3001 Bridgeway, 415.332.5818 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, 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 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 Servino Ristorante Italian Chef and owner Angelo Servino highlights organic ingredients in an array of rustic Italian dishes, including house-made pastas, wood-oven pizzas and seasonal specialties. Located on the bay, Servino also prides itself on its extensive sustainable seafood program. Savor la dolce vita on the waterfront patio. 9 Main St, 415.435.2676
6 6 FEB RUARY 202 2 M ARIN
055-067 Dine.0222.indd 66
1/10/22 2:53 PM
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 Bungalow Kitchen Californian A party lounge and restaurant from chef Michael Mina boasts epic views and a menu of California fare — crispy Liberty duck wings glazed with Grand Marnier and black pepper, garganelli Bolognese, jalapeño shrimp toast — at night. Brunch cocktails pair with sweet potato pancakes and hot chicken and waffles on weekends, while the upstairs lounge boasts a billiards table, gas-powered fireplace and live DJ on weekends.. 5 Main St, 415.366.4088 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 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 Waypoint Pizza Pizza Family-friendly, with cooked-to-order gourmet pies, slices, fresh salads and, for sports fans, a large-screen TV. Order online for quick pickup or delivery. 15 Main St, 415.435.3440
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 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 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 Rancho Nicasio American Known for live music and a 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 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
Get Strong. Get Healthy. Get Fit. At Get Fit Marin, exercise is fun! Join us. No enrollment fee, $99 a month. 5768 Paradise Drive, Suite J, Corte Madera (415) 945-9778 GetFitMarin.com
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 Side Street Kitchen American The fastcasual eatery led by chef Aaron Wright serves favorites like rotisserie chicken, smoked oysters and pork-belly BLTs, as well as wholesome vegetarian fare. This is one of the few spots in West Marin that serves gluten-free beer. The cozy patio is dog-friendly. 60 Fourth St, Point Reyes Station, 415.663.0303
Smiley's Saloon American The self-proclaimed oldest saloon on the West Coast and best party in town reopened in 2020 after a lengthy remodel to improve everything from the deck to the sewer system. The new menu at Smiley’s Cantina leans Mexican-American with dishes like local catch mezcal ceviche, vegan tortilla soup and a rotating menu of familystyle plates and a kids' menu. Yes, the house margaritas are still here. 41 Wharf Rd, Bolinas, 415.663.0303
Station House Cafe American Known for their house-made popovers, which chef Aaron Wright makes available at every meal, this cozy cafe is also recognized for fresh oysters, grassfed burgers, and an "everything fresh, local and homegrown" ethos. Dining in the garden is as popular on weekdays as on the weekends. 11180 Highway 1, Point Reyes Station, 415.663.1515
For more comprehensive restaurant listings, visit us online at marinmagazine.com/food-drink.
M A R I N FEB RUARY 202 2 67
055-067 Dine.0222.indd 67
1/10/22 2:53 PM
Calendar EDITED BY CHRISTINA MUELLER
JAN 21–FEB 13 Freestyle Love Supreme Before Hamilton, LinManuel Miranda wrote an improvisational hiphop comedy that takes inspiration from audience suggestions and spins them into riffs and full-length musical numbers. act-sf.org FEB 1 Wajahat Ali The author of Go Back to Where You Came From: And Other Helpful Recommendations on How to Become American sits down with Dave Eggers to share stories of his experiences as a Muslim PakistaniAmerican and inspire a new vision of America’s multicultural identity. cityarts.net
Tikkun
ARTS & LECTURES THROUGH FEBRUARY 19 Dust Specks on the Sea Contemporary sculpture from the French Caribbean and Haiti made by 27
different artists represents colonial history and trauma, as well as the artists’ personal relationships to heritage and a desire to look beyond their cultural backgrounds for inspiration and ideas. sfai.edu
THROUGH FEBRUARY 27 Swept Away Featuring a book by Tony Award-winning stage and screen writer John Logan (Red, Broadway’s Moulin Rouge!, Skyfall, Gladiator), a story of a whaling ship struck by
a violent storm off he coast of New Bedford, Massachusetts finds four survivors each facing a reckoning: How far will I go to stay alive? And can I live with the consequences? berkeleyrep.org
FEB 25–26 Memphis Jookin’: The Show Lil Buck’s dance improvisation with Yo-Yo Ma turned him into a YouTube sensation, but he has become a star for his agile, fluid dance moves and impossiblelooking footwork, as demonstrated in a show dedicated to a style that emerged in a Southern city in the 1990s. calperformances.org
MUSIC FEB 5, 8 Björk The multidisciplinary artist known for outlandish costumes and jangly vocals returns to the Chase Center with “Cornucopia,” said to be
her most elaborate and theatrical stage concert to date. chasecenter.com FEB 24–27 Rosanne Cash The daughter of Johnny and singular performer takes the stage at SFJAZZ with her partner and musical collaborator, John Leventhal, to play music from across Cash’s career, including songs from her latest Blue Note release, “She Remembers Everything.” sfjazz.org
FILM FEB 3–13 San Francisco Film Festival Twentyfive feature films and 65 short films, including Josef Kubota’s “Catch the Fair One” and “Cat Daddies” by Mye Hoang, are shown at San Francisco’s Roxie Theater and in virtual formats. sfindie.com FEB 19 Hearts of Darkness Part of a months-long series that examines the work of Francis Ford Coppola and American Zoetrope, a documentary from Eleanor Coppola’s home movies digs into her husband’s time in the Philippines filming “Apocalypse Now.” bampfa.org
MUSEUMS OPENS JAN 14 Wander Woods The California Academy of Sciences
JOSEF JACQUES
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
68 F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 2 M A R I N
068-069 Calendar_0222_v3.indd 68
1/10/22 2:55 PM
Lunar New Year Festival & Parade
opens an immersive outdoor multisensory discovery and learning area dedicated to crawling, climbing and other imaginative play activities, a space to foster a deep connection with nature ideal for children under 12. calacademy.org THROUGH APRIL 17 Jules Tavernier and the Elem Pomo A focus on the artist’s masterwork Dance in a Subterranean Roundhouse at Clear Lake (1878) are presented alongside historic and contemporary Pomo basketry and regalia from the Elem Pomo Indian Colony, adding a multiplicity of voices and perspectives to the paintings and
photographs. deyoung.famsf.org FEB 3–JUNE 5 Tikkun Artists from around the Bay Area interpreted the Hebrew word for “to repair”; the exhibit can more broadly be seen as a tool to help guide us through change and build resilience for the hard work ahead. thecjm.org
EVENTS 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 from his chest in an all-things LEGO exhibition from contemporary artist Nathan Sawaya. artofthebrickexhibit.com THROUGH FEB 19 Below the Lighthouse The first solo exhibition in the United States of the work of New York-based artists Zakkubalan, aka Neo S. Sora and Albert Tholen, features their 2017 collaboration with composer Ryuichi Sakamoto, async – volume - , a 24-channel video installation that serves as a portrait of the composer and his creative process, and new work created in response
to San Francisco’s David Ireland House. 500cappstreet.org
absinthe cocktails for the adults in the crowd. edwardianball.com
THROUGH MARCH 6 Unstable Presence Rafael LozanoHemmer’s large-scale, participatory works use little more than air, water, sound and light, plus a smidge of technology, to highlight the relationship between physical presence and the natural and technological spaces we inhabit. sfmoma.org
FEB 6 Faith Kramer The author of 52 Shabbats sits down with food writer Dianne Jacob to discuss her book and the pleasures of food as part of a modern Jewish weekly ritual. omnivorebooks. myshopify.com
THROUGH APR 27 Bauhaus Typography at 100 The inaugural exhibition from the Letterform Archive, which opened in November in San Francisco’s Dogpatch neighborhood, 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 FEB 4–5 Edwardian Ball A fully immersive party devoted to the delights and attire of another era celebrates with a Revival theme, ballroom dancing, stage shows and
FEB 9–13, 23–27 Dream Big Disney on Ice returns to SAP Center in San Jose and Oakland Arena with favorite Disney friends such as Mickey, Minnie, Miguel, Moana, Elsa, Belle, Genie, and others highlighting Disney tales told through figure skating. disneyonice.com FEB 17–MAY 28 The Healing Project From composer and artist Samora Abayomi Pinderhughes comes an exhibition that is part digital archive and music album, part exhibition exploring the daily realities of violence, incarceration, detention, policing and healing in communities across the United States. ybca.org
FEB 19 Lunar New Year Festival & Parade After a year’s absence, the dragon-snapping, firecracker-cracking San Francisco parade and festival are back with a month of events, including a street fair, Miss Chinatown pageant, basketball jamboree and more to honor the Year of the Tiger. chineseparade.com FEB 21–27 Noise Pop Independent films, art shows, happy hours and concerts around the Bay Area includes Tipling Rock at San Francisco’s DNA Lounge and Nate Smith with Kinfolk at The New Parish in Oakland. noisepopfest.com FEB 24–26 Sophia’s Forest With music by Lembit Beecher and libretto by Hannah Moscovitch, a one-act opera at San Francisco’s Grace Cathedral relates the story of a young girl who survives a civil war in her home country and immigration to the United States, showing the power of a child’s imagination to deal with trauma. operaparallele.org
JAN 29–OCT 30 Edith Heath The founder and designer of Sausalito’s Heath Ceramics, which transformed the ceramics industry, is the focus of a new show and retrospective, “A Life in Clay,” at Oakland Museum of California. Known for rejecting traditional white clay in favor of locally sourced, and definitely not white, California clays, Heath developed a new style of ceramics that helped define a California aesthetic for tableware and long-lasting products for the home. “What began as a rebellion against imported white clay more than 50 years ago is now a modern-day classic,” said guest curator Jennifer Volland. The exhibition includes more than 50 hand-thrown and early production pieces, architectural tiles, clay and mineral materials, intimate photographs, documentary video, personal memorabilia, a biographical and historical timeline, touchable objects and more. Cathy Bailey, coowner of Heath Ceramics, perhaps put it best: “Edith Heath’s visionary thinking coupled with the fascinating journey of her design and craft explorations are showcased in this wonderful new exhibit. Edith should inspire us all to create beauty and think holistically.” museumca.org WANT MORE? For the latest events and local highlights, visit marinmagazine.com/arts-events.
M A R I N F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 2 69
068-069 Calendar_0222_v3.indd 69
1/10/22 2:55 PM
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
Renel Brooks-Moon
Bobby McFerrin with the GLIDE ensemble
After a year-and-a-half hiatus, the Glide Annual Holiday Jam: Still We Rise returned on November 18, both as an in-person and livestreamed benefit event at The Masonic in San Francisco. This year’s celebration was dedicated to Glide cofounder, Holiday Jam creator and crusader for the people Janice Mirikitani, who passed away earlier in 2021. Bringing together the community is something Glide does very well, and this year’s Holiday Jam was no exception, with an evening filled with music, storytelling and messages about the nonprofit’s nearly 60 year-old mission. Headlining the evening was 10-time Grammy Award winner and legendary artist Bobby McFerrin, who was joined by local a cappella vocalists from Circlesongs. He was followed by three-time Grammy awardee and NPR Tiny Desk contest winner Fantastic Negrito, who share a personal narrative through his distinctive, edgy songs. The renowned and uplifting Glide Ensemble and Change Band, under the direction of Vernon Bush, entertained concertgoers with their spiritual ballads and soulful melodies. Mistress of ceremonies Renel Brooks-Moon, also known as the voice of the San Francisco Giants, led the evening’s festivities, which included inspirational words from San Francisco Mayor London Breed, Glide President and CEO Karen Hanrahan and Glide Minister of Celebration Marvin K. White. Guests feasted on Glide’s famous fried chicken and other noshes. “The evening marked a joyful occasion for our community to safely come together,” said Karen Hanrahan, Glide’s CEO. “We celebrated Glide’s resiliency, and how — throughout the pandemic — we continued to serve those most in need. “The event was also very special because it was dedicated to our beloved cofounder Janice Mirikitani, who we lost this year,” Hanrahan continued. “Janice was a friend and mentor; the new generation at Glide is inspired by her example and determined to meet today’s biggest social justice challenges.”
IMPACT: Services that help more people get off the streets while supporting policy reform and advocacy efforts to disrupt cycles of intergenerational poverty SPONSORS: Qatalyst Partners, SOMA Equity Partners, Chip Conley Foundation, Maisin Foundation, Sutter Health/CPMC, Wells Fargo
WANT MORE? For more inspiring success stories, matching grant opportunities, deserving nonprofits to support and how to help, visit marinmagazine.com/better-makers.
Fantastic Negrito
ALAIN MCLAUGHLIN PHOTOGRAPHY INC. (RENEL BROOKS-MOON); BILLY COLE PHOTOGRAPHY (BOBBY MCFERRIN); ALAIN MCLAUGHLIN PHOTOGRAPHY INC. (FANTASTIC NEGRITO)
Headlined by Grammy Award Winner Bobby McFerrin, Glide Annual Holiday Jam: Still We Rise Returns to San Francisco Jamming since 1985, this year’s community benefit raises $1.25 million for community services
70 F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 2 M A R I N
070-071 BetterMakers_0222_v3.indd 70
1/10/22 2:58 PM
Marin Charitable Gets Funky at its Fall Fundraiser Nonprofit that supports other nonprofits throughout the year raises nearly $100,000 Marin Charitable, the Marin nonprofit that helps fund other youth-centric nonprofits, held its 60th anniversary fall fundraiser on November 6 at HopMonk Tavern in Novato. Raise the Funk & Raise the Funds, the second of Marin Charitable’s two annual fundraising events, featured local band Dark & Stormy’s eclectic vintage sound. Many supporters came dressed in 1960s attire in honor of the nonprofit’s 60 years of service, and participated in both live and silent auctions. A sit-down dinner opened the event, while others arrived later for cocktails, wine and appetizers. More than 175 people showed up to offer their support, including copresidents Jessica Berry and Jenny Kelly, plus Liz Harrell, Joslyn Faust, Jane Hartman, Kristine Erving and Andrea Schultz. Marin Charitable is 100% volunteer run, and the funds it raises are passed on to up to 50 organizations in Marin benefitting youth after-school programs, foster care assistance, youth musical instruction and more.
IMPACT: Supporting nonprofits throughout Marin that provide youth-oriented services Liz Harrell, Jenny Kelly, and Dark & Stormy
SPONSORS: Bon Air Center, Cos Bar, Marich Chocolates, Iron Springs, Holly Welch and Pasha Group
Since 2020, Make It Better Media Group, the parent company of Marin Magazine, has made a tremendous impact:
$13 , 365, 201 DOLL AR S R AISE D | 30, 262 ,921 LIVES M ADE BET TE R
DAWN SHALHOUP (LIZ HARREL): TONY GEORGE (GRACE WETHOR; LISA WARD)
PNOC Foundation Raises $350,000 to Help Pediatric Brain Cancer Patients The 2021 Gratitude Gala Celebrates Global Expansion of the PNOC Consortium, Bringing Hope to Kids Worldwide On November 13, a community of inspired and motivated supporters, patient families and doctors associated with the PNOC Foundation gathered to raise critically needed funding for the Pacific Pediatric Neuro-Oncology Consortium (PNOC), which addresses treatment options surrounding pediatric brain cancer. With a theme of “Around the World,” the PNOC Foundation’s 2021 Gratitude Gala celebrated the global expansion of the PNOC Consortium, which brings hope and breakthrough treatments to children facing no options for their cancer diagnosis. Several people addressed the crowd with personal stories and experiences, including 20-year-old model, actress, author and patient advocate Grace Wethor. UCSF’s Dr. Michael Prados and Dr. Sabine Mueller spoke about PNOC’s achievements, and Lisa Ward, mother of recognized patient advocate Jace Ward, attended to accept her son’s award for Excellence in Commitment and Contribution. At the end of the evening, the crowd kicked up their heels to one of California’s favorite dance bands, Notorious. Renowned doctors and surgeons from UCSF attended the Gratitude Gala, including Dr. Nalin Gupta, Dr. Alyssa Reddy, Dr. Michael Reddy, Dr. Shannon Lundy, Dr. Mitch Berger, Dr. Henry Krigbaum and Dr. Javad Nazarian from University Children’s Hospital, Zurich.
Grace Wethor
IMPACT: Supporting the urgent work of the PNOC Consortium and helping underwrite critical pediatric brain research SPONSORS: Vionic Shoes, Highline, Day One Biopharmaceuticals, Nice Guys Delivery and Big Pic PR
Lisa Ward
M A R I N F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 2 71
070-071 BetterMakers_0222_v3.indd 71
1/10/22 2:58 PM
Vanguard_0222_FNL.indd 72
1/6/22 1:46 PM
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
The Big Picture Designer Julie Rootes took a half-renovated Kent Woodlands house and turned it into a luxe hillside abode. BY LAURA HINE PHOTOGRAPHY BY PAUL DYER
073-075 Marin_Home_Backstory_0222_v2.indd 73
M A R I N F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 2 73
1/10/22 3:00 PM
Marin Home / BACKSTORY
Previous page: The house boasts stunning views of Mount Tamalpais, the hills and the bay. This page: In the lounge, designer Julie Rootes used a leather rug by Holland & Sherry to define the seating area. She then layered on a custom sofa, side chairs from De Sousa Hughes and a coffee table by Poliform.
A
few years ago, Corte Madera-based designer Julie Rootes was tasked with remodeling a house that she describes as “aesthetically discombobulated.” The previous owner left the house half-gutted and with a half-finished addition — neither of which were well considered. Nonetheless, the new owners saw the house’s potential. “It overlooks Mount Tam and the bay,” says the wife, who, with her husband and two children, has lived in the area for years. “We knew we had found a diamond in the rough.” The family brought in Rootes to figure out how to salvage the renovation that had already started and maximize the sweeping views. The homeowners asked for “a functional, beautiful and modern space maximized for indoor-outdoor living and entertaining,” Rootes recalls. With that direction, she designed a plan that unified the original structure with the new addition and fixed the house’s quirky layout to allow for better flow and sight lines. “The home didn’t have a laundry room, powder room or mud room,” she says. “The kitchen didn’t capitalize on the views, CONNECT WITH US ONLINE!
and the outdoor space was underutilized because it was hard to access.” The wife notes that when they bought the house, they were absolute novices in renovation and construction. “Everything seemed like a challenge to us,” she remembers. “Fortunately, Julie spoke the complicated language of home renovation and translated for us.” The homeowners’ favorite room in the 3,500-square-foot, four-bedroom house is the one they call “the lounge.” That’s where Rootes installed floor-to-ceiling folding glass doors that allow for easy indoor-outdoor living, plus a fun bar and a redesigned fireplace for when the entertaining moves indoors. The wife says, “It’s the room that makes me smile every day, and it’s been home to many a party.” In the open-plan kitchen, custom cabinetry throughout and a total reorientation made the space much more appealing; standing at the sink isn’t a chore with a beautiful view. The room is also practical: Rootes added plenty of storage and island seating. The dining room, which is just off he kitchen, got a lighting upgrade, spacesmag.com/subscribe
74 F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 2 M A R I N
073-075 Marin_Home_Backstory_0222_v2.indd 74
1/10/22 3:00 PM
with a skylight and a modern chandelier by Christopher Boots. The nearby living room is outfitted with a TV and custom built-ins, plus plenty of comfy sofas for lounging. In the primary bedroom, closet space was the main issue. “There was no proper closet,” Rootes says. “Also, we had the water heater and utilities sharing the available closet space.” Once she solved the storage issues, she focused on the decor. A floor-to-ceiling custom headboard in a bluish-gray and flowing white drapes provide softness in the otherwise modern space. Downstairs, Rootes got a little more playful with the family-oriented spaces. “I wanted that floor to be super fun and loungey for the girls,” she says. In the media room, which boasts huge windows that look out on the lush landscape, there’s a hanging chair upholstered in a fun floral fabric, which Rootes also used on the sofa pillows. Near the end of the renovation, the homeowners added a pool to the lower level and a rooftop vegetable garden over the carport to make the outdoor spaces not only relaxation areas but also havens for their favorite activities. The two-year renovation had its stresses, but the homeowners are thrilled with the result. The wife observes, “We never could have done it without Julie’s keen eye.” Laura Hine is a design and style writer based in Brooklyn, NY. She’s a former editor-in-chief of Better, as well as the Modern Luxury publications Interiors Chicago and NS.
Clockwise, from top left: Rootes furnished the living room with sofas by Minotti upholstered in fabric by Zimmer + Rohde. The fuzzy stools are by Coop Studio from Coup D’Etat. The coffee table is by Oscar Maschera from Horne. In the dining room, the chandelier is by Christopher Boots, chairs by DWR, the table is by YumanMod and the custom console is from Brett Design for Hewn. In the primary bedroom, the bed and dresser were custom made for the space. The chandelier is by Ochre from Coup d’Etat and the sconces are by Daikon. In the reoriented kitchen, custom cabinetry and a marble-topped island give the family plenty of room for storage, food prep and seating.
WANT MORE? For more home decor and design inspiration, expert advice from industry leaders and stunning pieces by local artists, visit spacesmag.com.
M A R I N F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 2 75
073-075 Marin_Home_Backstory_0222_v2.indd 75
1/10/22 3:00 PM
Top Teams by Sales Volume 2021
#1 Team: Sarkissian Bullock Team Bill Bullock 415.686.2200
Lydia Sarkissian 415.517.7720
The Marin Group Susan Hewitt C.J. Nakagawa 415.407.8349 415.407.2151
Alva Falla 415.518.1930
Falla Associates Jennifer Firkins Lia Valentino 415.602.5768 415.577.9732
Skall Glassman Group Marcia Skall 415.533.5721
Jennifer Glassman 415.309.5331
MarinM_Feb22_TopAgents-SPRD1-VOL-v06.indd All Pages 0222_GoldenGate_FNL.indd 76
Magda Sarkissian 415.847.7913
Applegarth + Warrin Team Max Applegarth Kara Warrin Paul Warrin 415.298.7600 415.407.7979 415.407.8019
Janice Guehring 415.717.9636
Casady Craig Julie Casady Robert Craig 415.246.3200 415.720.1053
Adrienne and Heidi Adrienne Murphy Heidi Hjorth 415.215.9684 415.209.3236
Traci & Beth Traci Thiercof Beth Sasan 415.793.0111 415.990.7186
Team McNair Christina McNair Karla Farrell 415.613.5563 415.828.1584
The Sherfey Group Barbara Sherfey Sara Sherfey Mitchell Gemma 415.203.2648 415.302.9408
1/10/22 11:41 AM
T
Top Agents by Sales Volume 2021
#1 Agent: Stephanie Lamarre 415.806.3176
Olivia Decker 415.720.5915
Thomas Henthorne 415.847.5584
Patricia Oxman 415.461.4100
Lisa Garaventa 415.518.2772
Ted Strodder 415.377.5222
Rick Trono 415.515.1117
Michael Burke 415.518.7200
Lindy Emrich 415.717.4005
Eckart Noack 415.215.4187
0222_GoldenGate_FNL.indd 77
Barbara Major 415.999.9706
Mark Millstein 415.601.9240
Rick van der Wal 415.306.4106
Lei Ann Werner 415.710.0117
Jennifer Dunbar 415.272.4635
Dubie Breen 415.640.4927
1/7/22 11:42 5:06 PM 1/10/22 AM
Top Agents
T
continued
by Sales Volume 2021
Colm Glass 415.845.2965
Colleen Madden 415.497.5170
Dawn Davis 415.533.5108
Judy Klayman-Smith 415.215.6789
Alisa Wynd 415.298.4037
Jeff Brown 415.637.3172
Julie Leitzell 415.309.7074
Jim Stafford 415.706.6025
Greg Suski 415.608.3102
Courtney Whitaker 415.686.2223
Cristina di Grazia 415.710.1048
Joe Bondanza 415.246.5549
M
T Marcine Engel 415.902.9438
Jason Lewis 415.971.6868
Sara Downs 415.847.1166
Patricia Scott Winslow 415.710.1048
Kalara Schuster 415.271.1871
Tammy Wilks Kornfeld 415.279.9362
Kouros Tavakoli 415.518.2439
Jeff Birkenseer 415.308.9251
B.G. Bates 415.706.1026
Linda Saint Amant 415.990.2154
Carolyn Moren 415.505.3013
John Zeiter 415.720.1515
MarinM_Feb22_TopAgents-DRAFT-SIDES-Sprd2-v06.indd All Pages 0222_GoldenGate_FNL.indd 78
L
1/10/22 11:42 AM
Top Teams
by Number of Transactions 2021 #1 Team: The Marin Group Susan Hewitt 415.407.8349
Applegarth + Warrin Team Max Applegarth Kara Warrin Paul Warrin 415.298.7600 415.407.7979 415.407.8019
Alva Falla 415.518.1930
Traci & Beth Traci Thiercof Beth Sasan 415.793.0111 415.990.7186
Falla Associates Jennifer Firkins Lia Valentino 415.602.5768 415.577.9732
C.J. Nakagawa 415.407.2151
Sarkissian Bullock Team Bill Bullock Lydia Sarkissian Magda Sarkissian 415.686.2200 415.517.7720 415.847.7913
Team McNair Christina McNair Karla Farrell 415.613.5563 415.828.1584
Janice Guehring 415.717.9636
Top Agents
by Number of Transactions 2021
#1 Agent: Barbara Major 415.999.9706
Lisa Garaventa 415.518.2772
0222_GoldenGate_FNL.indd 79
Dubie Breen 415.640.4927
Thomas Henthorne 415.847.5584
Joe Bondanza 415.246.5549
Stephanie Lamarre 415.806.3176
Ted Strodder 415.377.5222
Patricia Oxman 415.461.4100
Michael Burke 415.518.7200
Jim Stafford 415.706.6025
1/7/22 11:43 5:11 PM 1/10/22 AM
S
Thank you for all your support. Wishing you a happy, healthy and prosperous 2022.
Ranked #3 Top Marin Agent at Golden Gate Sotheby’s International Realty by Sales Volume in 2021
“We trust and know Thomas to be transparent, authentic and honest.”
“Thomas is a laser-guided force of nature.”
“Because of Thomas’ magic, we are living in our dream home today!”
Dennis and Pat - Mill Valley
Kirk and Annette - Tiburon
Marc and Jen - San Rafael
“As professional estate developers for 30 years, we are well-qualified to say Thomas is the best agent we have ever worked with.” Barry and Marjorie - Novato
Henthorne-Marin-Feb2021-2pgs-SPRD-v02.indd All Pages 0222_GoldenGate_FNL.indd 80
Thomas Henthorne 415.847.5584 thomas@thomashenthorne.com ThomasHenthorne.com Lic.# 01892608
We have done four deals with Thomas and he continues to crush records and deliver with unparalleled quality and the utmost professionalism.” Forest and Laura - Ross
1/10/22 11:43 AM
Selling All of Marin—Let’s Tell the Next Success Story™
5 Norwood Avenue, Ross Sold for $4,200,000 | $505,000 Over the List Price!
1100 Cabro Ridge, Novato Sold for $4,275,000 | The 2nd Highest Price Sale in Novato Ever!
104 Hawthorne Avenue, Larkspur Sold for $2,400,000 | $405,000 Over the List Price!
390 Fawn Drive, San Anselmo Sold for $2,500,000 | $155,000 Over the List Price!
94 Deer Park Avenue, San Rafael Sold for $2,650,000 | Multiple Offers!
26 El Portal, Sausalito Sold for $3,300,000 | Multiple Offers!
s d d
Thomas Henthorne
415.847.5584
thomas@thomashenthorne.com ThomasHenthorne.com
Lic.# 01892608
0222_GoldenGate_FNL.indd 81
1/7/22 11:43 3:46 PM 1/10/22 AM
Selling Marin County Lifestyle Properties Discover Marin’s Finest! Providing clients with the highest level of excellence and professionalism in all aspects of their real estate experience. Whether maximizing the value of your home, or finding the home of your dreams, nothing compares.
REPRESENTED SELLER
5
BEDS
3
BATHS
1
1/2 BATH
$4,570,000
1 Bartel Court
Tiburon
4
BEDS
5
5
4
BATHS
1
1/2 BATH
2122 Centro East Street
S 4
$4,500,000
BATHS
7 Burrell Court
REPRESENTED BUYER
BEDS
M o
REPRESENTED SELLER
Tiburon
REPRESENTED SELLER
$3,700,000 Tiburon
4
BEDS
2
BATHS
1
1/2 BATH
35 Jacklyn Terrace
$2,975,000 Mill Valley
M 1
Rick van der Wal 415.306.4106
rick@rvanderwal.com rickvdw.com Lic.# 01978369
GGSIR-RickVDWal-Marin-Feb22-1pg-v03.indd 2 0222_GoldenGate_FNL.indd 82
YOUR ULTIMATE REAL ESTATE EXPERIENCE®
1/7/22 11:43 3:18 PM 1/10/22 AM
AdrienneHe
®
/22 3:18 PM
Adrienne + Heidi – 2021 Homes Sold Coming Soon...
Rendering Not Final
Modern Masterpiece in the Heart Price Upon Request of Mill Valley’s Country Club Buena Vista, Mill Valley
Fabulous Custom Rebuild 15 Morning Sun Ave, Mill Valley
$3,600,000 Represented Sellers
Cool Contemporary with Sun and Views $2,495,000 20 Idlewood Place, San Rafael Represented Buyers
SF Meets Marin: Remodeled Vintage Home $2,210,000 415 Redwood Avenue, Corte Madera Represented Sellers
Cool Contemporary New Construction $1,550,000 11 Harbor Drive, Corte Madera Represented Buyers
California Dreaming: Pool, Views & Sun $1,650,000 26 Privateer Drive, Corte Madera Rep Buyer + Seller
Two Lots, Three Homes – Walk-to Town Location & Remodel Opportunity $1,850,000 96 Madrone Avenue – A, B & C, Larkspur Represented the Buyers
Have a Healthy and Happy New Year! Adrienne & Heidi Mid Century Modern on Corner Lot $1,501,000 153 Richardson Drive, Mill Valley Represented Seller
Excellent Value and Location Larkspur Plaza Drive
Adrienne Murphy 415.215.9684
a.murphy@ggsir.com Lic.# 01475471
AdrienneHeidi-Marin-Feb22-1pg-FP-FNL.indd 2 0222_GoldenGate_FNL.indd 83
$636,000 Represented Seller
Heidi Hjorth
415.209.3236
h.hjorth@ggsir.com
Lic.# 01123844
1/7/22 11:43 3:34 PM 1/10/22 AM
OVER $210 MILLION SOLD IN 2021
SOLD
SOLD OFF-MARKET
THANK YOU FOR ANOTHER GREAT YEAR! GLOBALESTATES .COM
Ross
Represented Seller
$7,395,000
Represented Buyer
| 7 BD | 6 BA | 2 Half BA
Belvedere
Represented Seller
SOLD
San Francisco
| 4 BD | 3 BA | 1 Half BA
Novato
Represented Seller
SOLD
San Rafael
| 5 BD | 4 BA
Tiburon
Represented Seller
SOLD
San Rafael
Represented Seller
Marin-BBLS-FEB22-Sprd-FNL.indd All Pages 0222_GoldenGate_FNL.indd 84
$7,495,000
| 5 BD | 5 BA | 2 Half BA
Mill Valley
Represented Seller
| 3 BD | 2 BA
Tiburon
Represented Seller
B
R
$7,750,000
T
$4,995,000
B
$2,995,000
T
$1,995,000
N
| 5 BD | 4 BA | 1 Half BA
R
SOLD
$4,295,000
| 5 BD | 5 BA | 1 Half BA
Sonoma
Represented Seller
| 5 BD | 5 BA | 1 Half BA
R
SOLD
$2,798,000
| 4 BD | 2 BA | 2 Half BA
Belvedere
Represented Buyer
SOLD
$1,016,000
$20,000,000
| 4 BD | 3 BA | 1 Half BA
SOLD OFF-MARKET
SOLD
$2,798,000
Represented Seller
Represented Seller
SOLD
$4,478,000
Represented Seller
Belvedere
SOLD
SOLD OFF-MARKET
Ross
$17,000,000
| 5 BD | 4 BA | 2 Half BA
| 3 BD | 2 BA
R
SOLD
$1,750,000 | 2 BD | 2 BA
Novato
Represented Buyer
| 5 BD | 3 BA | 2 Half BA
1/10/22 11:44 AM
R
0
A
0
A
0
A
0
A
0
A
SOLD
SOLD
SOLD
HIGHEST SALE IN BELVEDERE SINCE Belvedere
Represented Buyer
$21,000,000
| 6 BD | 5 BA | 2 Half BA
Belvedere
Represented Seller
$8,000,000
| 8 BD | 7 BA | 1 Half BA
Glen Ellen
Represented Buyer
SOLD
Belvedere
| 3 BD | 3 BA
$8,500,000
Tiburon
| 4 BD | 4 BA
SOLD
$23,999,000
| 10 BD | 8 BA | 1 Half BA
Belvedere
$5,700,000
| 6 BD | 4 BA | 1 Half BA
Corte Madera
Represented Buyer & Seller
$10,000,000
Represented Buyer
| 6 BD | 4 BA | 1 Half BA
SOLD OFF-MARKET
Tiburon
$6,000,000
Represented Seller
SOLD
$3,200,000
Represented Buyer
Represented Buyer
SOLD OFF-MARKET
| 4 BD | 4 BA | 2 Half BA
Represented Buyer
SOLD
Tiburon
Tiburon
SOLD OFF-MARKET
$4,995,000
Represented Seller
| 6 BD | 5 BA | 2 Half BA
SOLD
SOLD OFF-MARKET
Tiburon
$22,500,000
Represented Seller
| 6 BD | 4 BA | 1 Half BA
SOLD
$3,650,000
| 4 BD | 5 BA
Belvedere
Represented Buyer & Seller
$3,950,000 | 3 BD | 3 BA
Lydia Sarkissian
| l.sarkissian@ggsir.com Lic
Bill Bullock
| bb@ggsir.com Lic
Novato
Represented Seller
0222_GoldenGate_FNL.indd 85
$2,495,000
| 5 BD | 4 BA | 1 Half BA
Magda Sarkissian
| m.sarkissian@ggsir.com Lic
1/7/22 11:44 5:04 PM 1/10/22 AM
Discover the Difference Luxury Property Specialists
SKALL ✳ GLASSMAN Thank you to our valued clients and community for your continued trust. Helping you realize your dreams is our passion. Looking forward to an abundance of success in 2022. MARCIA SKALL, MBA m.skall@ggsir.com 415.533.5721 Lic.# 01077678
JENNIFER GLASSMAN j.glassman@ggsir.com 415.309.5331 Lic.# 02059113
SK A L LGL A S SM A N.COM
GGSIR-SkallGlassman-Marin-Feb-2022-v01.indd 1 0222_GoldenGate_FNL.indd 86
1/7/22 11:44 6:01 PM 1/10/22 AM
Let’s fi d a place that makes you want to stay home.
DONNA GOLDMAN CalBRE No. 01408527
415.509.2427 donna@donnagoldman.com 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.
Compass_Donna_0222_FNL.indd 1
1/5/22 12:41 PM
PAYA M G H A F O O R I
M o
Compass_0222_FNL.indd 88
W y h C u
135 S RIDGEWOOD ROAD KENTFIELD, CA 94904 “ After working on this Kentfield estate and two other properties, we are convinced that Payam
Record Breaking Sale
is the only realtor we’ll ever need. Payam’s knowledge, professionalism and terrific instincts
Sold at $16,000,000
have consistently guided us through to excellent
6 Bed | 7.5 Bath | 10,120 Sq Ft
outcomes. Payam Ghafoori is the perfect balance between tough and charming. We’ve found that he keeps his client’s best interests in laser-focus and you can always trust that he is on top of every detail, big and small, which brings great peace of mind in any real estate transaction. If you are buying or selling a home, do yourselves a favor and hire Payam Ghafoori!!”
A
Client’s Testimonial
Payam Ghafoori 415.577.5252 payam@compass.com DRE 01935373 payamghafoori.com @payam_ghafoori
Compass is a 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 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. Buyer Represented.
R L w
1/6/22 1:40 PM
Maximize the Value of Your Home
With Compass Concierge, I can help you sell your home faster and for a higher price. From staging to renovation, Concierge transforms your home with zero upfront costs. Contact me to learn more.
AFTER
BEFORE
AFTER
BEFORE
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.
Compass_0222_FNL.indd 89
1/6/22 1:40 PM
PORTFOLIO BY
VANGUARD PROPERTIES
15 MAKIN GRADE ROSS ERIC MCFARLAND MARYLISA TENCER 15MAKINGRADEROSS.COM
$6,500,000 917.685.8369 415.308.0188
611 GALERITA WAY
76 DOCKSIDE CIRCLE
SAN RAFAEL ERIC MCFARLAND MARYLISA TENCER 611GALERITA .COM
S A N R A FA E L LORI SAIA ODISIO
SAN FR ANCISCO
·
$1,099,000 917.685.8369 415.308.0188
E A S T B AY
·
MARIN COUNT Y
·
100 THORNDALE, UNIT 144 $599,000 415.747.6707
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
|
111 8 Magno lia Avenue , L ark s pur
SAN RAFAEL RACHEL PERCIVAL
$575,000 415.933.7681
·
W E S T H O L LY W O O D
·
PA L M S PR I N G S
|
1 6 9 0 T iburon Boul ev ard , T iburon
|
D R E# 014 8 6 0 75
vanguardproperties.com
Vanguard_0222_FNL.indd 90
1/6/22 1:46 PM
We live here, we work here, we thrive here... and we GIVE here. In honor of all that our Realtors ® do to help enrich the quality of people’s lives in Marin, Vanguard Properties is proud to donate $25,000 to Marin-based charities that enhance the quality of life here for those in need. We are delighted to have donated to the following Marin-based non-profits:
adoptafamily.org | Increases family financial stability to prevent homelessness, especially for children marinclinic.org | Provides urgent medical services to low income Marin residences marinhumane.org | Works to adopt, foster, and advocate for Marin’s abandoned animals playmarin.org | Provides opportunities for children of diverse ethnic/socioeconomic backgrounds to learn and grow together
SAN FR ANCISCO
·
E A S T B AY
·
MARIN COUNT Y
·
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
|
111 8 Magno lia Avenue , L ark s pur
·
PA L M S PR I N G S
|
1 6 9 0 T iburon Boul ev ard , T iburon
·
W E S T H O L LY W O O D |
D R E# 014 8 6 0 75
vanguardproperties.com
Vanguard_0222_FNL.indd 91
1/6/22 1:46 PM
EngelVolkers_0222_FNL.indd 92
1/6/22 1:48 PM
THE BEST BAY AREA HOMES
Direct from sellers, exclusively on Aalto
AH
CM
DH
Modern Farmhouse in Kentfield
Chic Bungalow Retreat in Redwood City
Charming Cottage in Mill Valley
Seller A.H. in Kentfield $5,395,000 · 5 bed · 4.5 bath
Seller C.M. in Redwood City $1,500,000 · 4 bed · 2 bath
Seller D.H. in Mill Valley $1,095,000 · 1 bed · 1 bath
" We never felt
HM
Spacious Victorian Condo in Hayes Valley Seller H.M. in San Francisco $1,310,000 · 2 bed · 2 bath
Scan to learn about these and more exclusive Bay Area homes, direct from sellers.
pressured or put upon, and listing was made expeditious and simple." AW Seller A.W. in San Rafael
JL
Exclusive Mid-Century Modern in Mill Valley Seller J.L. in Mill Valley $3,895,000 · 5 bed · 3.5 bath
The direct real estate marketplace
aalto.com/marinmag
© 2022 Aalto, Inc. Aalto is a real estate broker licensed in the State of California and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity Laws. License #02062727. All information presented herein is intended for informational purposes only. Listings are subject to errors, omissions, changes including price or withdrawal without notice. DRE License numbers for featured advisors: Chelsea Ialeggio: 01394011, Alison McCubbin: 02090275, Michael Williams: 01780513.
AaltoRE_0222_FNL.indd 1
1/4/22 1:20 PM
NOVATO | $1,185,000 Exquisite 3BR/2BA single-level home, nestled on approx 1/3-acre lot with a legacy of updates including fine finishes & deluxe custom features. Haven O'Halloran 415.302.4960 haven.ohalloran@cbnorcal.com CalRE #01994847
SAN RAFAEL | $1,159,000 Your 70's revival awaits in this warm & elegant home on a private hill in Terra Linda. Enjoy the nostalgic feel of this rare & special find. Haven O'Halloran 415.302.4960 haven.ohalloran@cbnorcal.com CalRE #01994847
SAN RAFAEL | $1,395,000 Spacious 4br/2ba Sun Valley home w/deck, patio and Mt. Tam views!
NOVATO | $1,295,000 Stunning 4br/2.5ba home w/gated front porch and large backyard.
Marjorie Cuitti 415.531.4663 marjorie.cuitti@cbnorcal.com CalRE #01993642
Jola Marra 415.608.4552 JolaMarra@Outlook.com CalRE #01710099
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.
ColdwellBankerHomes.com
Realogy_WHOLE_0222_FNL.indd 94
1/6/22 1:59 PM
guiding you home since 1906
NOVATO | $1,239,000 Charming 3br/3ba home w/pool in beloved Pleasant Valley Area! Toni Shroyer 415.640.2754 Lynn Ascencio 415.259.7661 CalRE #01876201 | CalRE #01920704
SAN RAFAEL | $1,115,000 2br/2ba 55+ independent living corner penthouse - Best of kind! Christine Flechsig 415.320.3433 christine.fl chsig@cbrealty.com CalRE #01939464
NOVATO | $1,050,000 Ranch-style 3br/3ba single-level home w/patios and gated pool!
NOVATO | $635,000 Immaculate 3br/2.5ba townhome w/private outdoor space and patio.
Karyn Asfour Kambur 415.516.3221 kkambur@cbnorcal.com CalRE #01785669
Jola Marra 415.608.4552 JolaMarra@Outlook.com CalRE #01710099
SAN RAFAEL | $399,000 1br/1ba. 55+ community. Kitchen. FP. AC. W&D. Patio. Pool. Lisa Byram 415.846.3821 lisa@lisabyram.com CalRE #01793707
TIBURON | $3,500,000 Exclusive Tiburon Waterfront Estate.
ALPINE MEADOWS | $2,100,000 5 bed, 3 bath, w/ADU Alpine Meadows home.
Leland Spelman 415.999.4115 lelandspelman@gmail.com CalRE #01045525
Patrick Barrett 530.318.2495 Dwight mccarthy 530.913.2274 CalRE #01300856 | CalRE #00859280
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.
ColdwellBankerHomes.com
Realogy_WHOLE_0222_FNL.indd 95
1/6/22 1:59 PM
SAN RAFAEL | $1,780,000 Updated 4BR/3BA view home & legal ADU.
SAN RAFAEL | $1,339,000 Eichler 4br/2ba home w/patio & gazebo!
NOVATO | $1,149,000 Updated 3br/2ba single level home.
NOVATO | $80,000 Spacious, bright & updated mobile home.
Hetti Schramm 415.637.9426 HettiSchramm@outlook.com CalRE #01814115
Ave Couris 415.828.9495 ACouris@cbnorcal.com CalRE #00589046
Julie Widergren 415.827.8727 julie.widergren@cbnorcal.com CalRE #01402872
Elsa Trujillo 415.524.9041 Elsa.Trujillo@cbnorcal.com CalRE #01999019
COLDWELL BANKER SUPPORTS ST. JUDE
®
The Coldwell Banker brand is proud to partner with St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in its mission: Finding cures. Saving children. As part of the CB Supports St. Jude program, agents make a donation to this one-of-a-kind hospital every time they help a client buy or sell a home. ®
®
®
Contact us today to find out how we can work together to support one of the world’s leading children’s cancer hospitals and help the world’s bravest kids get back home even faster.
St. Jude patient
Pepe
ColdwellBankerHomes.com
Realogy_WHOLE_0222_FNL.indd 96
1/6/22 1:59 PM
242 Riviera Circle, Larkspur Sold for $3,400,000
“Lei Ann expertly transformed a tired house into a very desirable property, leading to a sale price that exceeded my expectations. She brought creative ideas, was mindful of the costs, and her crew executed without any delays.” —K.T., Seller
Lei Ann Werner
The Werner Group 415.710.0117 l.werner@ggsir.com Lic.# 00994572
M A R I N F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 2 97
Realogy_WHOLE_0222_FNL.indd 97
1/11/22 1:57 PM
Reflections
St. Hilary's
Blackie's Pasture
Downtown Tiburon
THE STATS POPULATION: 9,000+ MAYOR: Jon Welner
Tiburon Once a hotbed of illegal activities like bootlegging, Tiburon is better known these days for its jaw-dropping bay views and natural beauty. With their ridges and rolling grasslands dotted with rare Tiburon mariposa lilies and Tiburon jewelflowers, along with countless other species of wildflowers and plants, Ring Mountain Preserve on the North end of the Tiburon peninsula and Old Saint Hilary’s Preserve are some of the best spots to appreciate this stunning landscape. Thanks to nonprofit Tiburon Peninsula GreenTeam, even the town’s medians and public spaces are filled with greenery. Tiburon also boasts an expansive waterfront and boutique-studded Main Street (which actually burned down three times between 1890 and 1921!) that both have played host to numerous events and festivals over the years, including an annual film festival, wine festivals and classic car shows. And, with the arrival of hotspots like the Bungalow Kitchen by Michael Mina, Luna Blu and Squalo Vino Wine Bar, it’s becoming a sought-after foodie destination, as well. LOTUS ABRAMS
NOTABLE RESIDENTS: Jonny Moseley, the late Robin Williams FUN FACTS: • The name “Tiburon” means “shark” in Spanish — likely derived from the leopard sharks living in local waters. • A railroad once ran from Petaluma to Tiburon from 1884 until 1967. • Al Capone was transported through Tiburon on his way to Alcatraz.
WANT MORE? Get to know every corner of Marin with a different town each month in "Reflections" — and read more about them at marinmagazine.com/cities-towns.
FRANKVANDENBERGH/ISTOCK (PIER); ERIC STEPHENS/UNSPLASH (BLACKIE'S PASTURE); YUVAL HELFMAN/ADOBE STOCK (ST. HILARY'S); @TIBURON CALIFORNIA (DOWNTOWN)
Patrol boat, pier of Tiburon
98 FEB RUARY 2022 MARIN
098 Reflections_0222_v2.indd 98
1/10/22 3:06 PM
Most people see strands of seaweed. The folks at start-up Sway see the next stage in the evolution of packaging.
Carson, an MCF donor, sees the potential in Sway.
Through MCF’s Venture Impact Program she can provide seed capital to Sway —
Philanthropy is changing.
using her donor-advised fund.
We’ll show you how.
With Offices in Marin and San Francisco. www.marincf.org | 415.464.2515
MarinComm_0222_FNL.indd 1
1/4/22 1:50 PM
The paintings of Paul Jenkins have come to represent the spirit, vitality, and invention of post World War II American abstraction. Employing an unorthodox approach to paint application, Jenkins is as much identified with the process of controlled paint-pouring and canvas manipulation as with the gem-like veils of transparent and translucent color which have characterized his work since the late 1950’s.
“Phenomena Tidal Radiance” 1994 watercolor on paper 31x43 inches
Over more than seven decades, Jenkins paintings have been widely exhibited around the world. He has had seven major retorspectives and his works are found in international museum and private collections including the Guggenheim Museum, the Museum of Modern Art, the Whitney Museum of American Art and the Brooklyn Museum in New York; the National Museum of American Art and the Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden in Washington, D.C.; the Tate Gallery in London; Centre Georges Pompidou in Paris; and the Stedelijk Museum in Amsterdam.
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.
RobertGreen_0222_FNL.indd 1
12/20/21 10:19 AM
