Where To Eat In Marin County

When it comes to exploring the culinary scene in California, Marin County is a food lover’s paradise. Located just north of San Francisco, this picturesque county is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and an incredible array of dining options that cater to every taste and budget. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, finding the perfect spot to eat can be a daunting task, especially with so many options to choose from.

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Discover the Best Eats in Marin County

From farm-to-table restaurants to artisanal bakeries, seafood joints, and ethnic eateries, Marin County’s diverse culinary landscape has something for everyone. In this guide, we’ll take you on a gastronomic journey through the county’s top eateries, hidden gems, and local favorites. Whether you’re in the mood for a romantic dinner, a casual bite, or a quick snack, we’ll show you where to eat in Marin County to satisfy your cravings.

Explore the Flavors of Marin County

In the following sections, we’ll delve into the best restaurants, cafes, and eateries in Marin County’s most popular towns, including Sausalito, Mill Valley, San Rafael, and Novato. We’ll highlight the must-try dishes, signature flavors, and unique dining experiences that make each spot stand out. So, sit back, relax, and get ready to embark on a culinary adventure through the heart of Marin County!

Where to Eat in Marin County: A Foodie’s Paradise

Marin County, located just north of San Francisco, is a culinary haven that offers a diverse range of dining options to suit every taste and budget. From farm-to-table restaurants to seafood eateries, artisanal bakeries, and gourmet cafes, Marin County is a foodie’s paradise. In this article, we’ll explore the best places to eat in Marin County, highlighting the top restaurants, cafes, and eateries in each region.

San Rafael and Downtown Area

San Rafael, the county seat of Marin County, is home to a vibrant downtown area filled with eclectic restaurants, cafes, and eateries. Here are some of the top places to eat in San Rafael:

Il Davide: This Italian restaurant is a local favorite, serving up homemade pasta, wood-fired pizzas, and an extensive wine list.
The Pullman: Located in the historic train depot, The Pullman offers seasonal American cuisine with a focus on locally sourced ingredients.
Sol Food: This Puerto Rican restaurant is a must-visit for its flavorful dishes, including mofongo, arroz con gandules, and empanadas.
Cafe Lotus: This cozy cafe serves up delicious breakfast and lunch options, including vegan and gluten-free dishes.

Larkspur and Corte Madera

Larkspur and Corte Madera, located just north of San Rafael, offer a range of dining options, from casual eateries to upscale restaurants. Here are some of the top places to eat in Larkspur and Corte Madera: (See Also: Where To Eat In Tysons Corner)

The Farm Shop: This farm-to-table restaurant in Larkspur offers seasonal American cuisine with a focus on locally sourced ingredients.
Bungalow 44: Located in Mill Valley, Bungalow 44 is a popular spot for brunch and lunch, serving up creative dishes like eggs benedict and burgers.
Creekside American Bistro: This Corte Madera restaurant offers upscale American cuisine with a focus on seasonal ingredients and an extensive wine list.
Pizza Antica: This popular pizzeria in Larkspur serves up delicious Neapolitan-style pizzas with unique toppings like prosciutto and arugula.

Sausalito and Mill Valley

Sausalito and Mill Valley, located just north of the Golden Gate Bridge, offer stunning views of the Bay and a range of dining options. Here are some of the top places to eat in Sausalito and Mill Valley:

Poggio: This Sausalito institution offers upscale Italian cuisine with a focus on seasonal ingredients and an extensive wine list.
The Spinnaker: Located on the waterfront in Sausalito, The Spinnaker offers seafood-focused cuisine with stunning views of the Bay.
Buckeye Roadhouse: This Mill Valley restaurant offers American comfort food with a twist, including dishes like burgers and mac ‘n cheese.
La Ginestra: This cozy Italian restaurant in Mill Valley serves up homemade pasta, pizzas, and risottos in a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Novato and North Marin

Novato and North Marin, located in the northern part of the county, offer a range of dining options, from casual eateries to upscale restaurants. Here are some of the top places to eat in Novato and North Marin:

Novato Grill: This Novato restaurant offers upscale American cuisine with a focus on seasonal ingredients and an extensive wine list.
Rickey’s: Located in Novato, Rickey’s offers classic American comfort food with a twist, including dishes like burgers and sandwiches.
The Breakfast Club: This popular breakfast spot in Novato serves up creative dishes like waffle sandwiches and breakfast burritos.
Finnegan’s Marin: This Irish pub in Novato offers traditional pub fare like fish ‘n chips and shepherd’s pie, along with a range of beers and whiskeys.

Seafood and Sushi

Marin County is renowned for its fresh seafood, and there are plenty of options to choose from. Here are some of the top seafood and sushi spots in Marin County:

The Fish: Located in Sausalito, The Fish offers fresh seafood dishes like fish tacos and seafood paella.
Scoma’s Restaurant: This San Rafael institution has been serving up fresh seafood dishes like cioppino and fisherman’s stew for over 50 years.
Sushi 101: This popular sushi spot in Larkspur offers a range of traditional and modern sushi dishes, including vegan and gluten-free options.
Kaigan Sushi: Located in Mill Valley, Kaigan Sushi offers high-quality, sustainable sushi options like omakase and sashimi.

Artisanal Bakeries and Cafes

Marin County is home to a range of artisanal bakeries and cafes, offering everything from freshly baked bread to gourmet pastries. Here are some of the top spots:

Boulangerie de San Rafael: This San Rafael bakery offers freshly baked bread, pastries, and sandwiches, along with a range of artisanal cheeses and charcuterie.
Insalata’s: Located in San Anselmo, Insalata’s offers gourmet salads, sandwiches, and soups, along with a range of artisanal baked goods.
Marin Coffee Roasters: This Novato coffee roastery offers a range of specialty coffee drinks, along with freshly baked pastries and sandwiches.
The Bakery at Lagunitas: Located in Lagunitas, this bakery offers freshly baked bread, pastries, and sandwiches, along with a range of artisanal cheeses and charcuterie.

Food Trucks and Markets

Marin County is home to a range of food trucks and markets, offering everything from gourmet grilled cheese to artisanal ice cream. Here are some of the top spots:

Off the Grid: This popular food truck market in San Rafael offers a range of gourmet options, including grilled cheese, tacos, and BBQ.
Marin Country Mart Farmers Market: This weekly farmers market in Larkspur offers a range of artisanal foods, including fresh produce, cheeses, and baked goods.
Novato Farmers Market: This weekly farmers market in Novato offers a range of artisanal foods, including fresh produce, cheeses, and baked goods.
Cream: This popular ice cream truck in Mill Valley offers unique flavors like honey lavender and strawberry balsamic.

Recap and Key Points

In conclusion, Marin County offers a diverse range of dining options to suit every taste and budget. From farm-to-table restaurants to seafood eateries, artisanal bakeries, and gourmet cafes, there’s something for everyone in Marin County. Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner spot or a casual breakfast joint, Marin County has it all. Be sure to check out some of the top spots mentioned in this article, and don’t forget to explore the many food trucks and markets throughout the county. (See Also: Where To Eat In Matsumoto)

Key points:

Marin County offers a diverse range of dining options, including farm-to-table restaurants, seafood eateries, artisanal bakeries, and gourmet cafes.
San Rafael and the downtown area are home to a range of eclectic restaurants and cafes.
Larkspur and Corte Madera offer a range of dining options, from casual eateries to upscale restaurants.
Sausalito and Mill Valley offer stunning views of the Bay and a range of dining options, including seafood-focused cuisine and upscale Italian restaurants.
Novato and North Marin offer a range of dining options, from casual eateries to upscale restaurants.
Marin County is renowned for its fresh seafood, with plenty of options to choose from.
The county is home to a range of artisanal bakeries and cafes, offering everything from freshly baked bread to gourmet pastries.
Food trucks and markets are a great way to experience the county’s culinary scene, with options ranging from gourmet grilled cheese to artisanal ice cream.

We hope this guide has been helpful in planning your dining adventures in Marin County. Bon appetit!

Frequently Asked Questions: Where to Eat in Marin County

What are some popular restaurants in Sausalito?

Sausalito is known for its waterfront dining options, and some popular restaurants include Poggio, Bar Bocce, and The Spinnaker. These restaurants offer a range of cuisines, from Italian to seafood, and offer stunning views of the Bay.

Are there any good breakfast spots in Mill Valley?

Yes, Mill Valley has several excellent breakfast spots. D’Angelo’s Bakery and Café is a local favorite, serving up delicious pastries and sandwiches. The Mill Valley Diner is another popular option, offering a wide range of breakfast classics. And for a more upscale breakfast experience, try the Buckeye Roadhouse.

Where can I find the best Mexican food in San Rafael?

San Rafael has a vibrant Mexican food scene, and some top recommendations include Sol Food, La Luna, and Los Moles. These restaurants offer a range of traditional Mexican dishes, from tacos to enchiladas, and are all highly rated by locals and visitors alike. (See Also: Where To Eat In Brugge Belgium)

Are there any good restaurants in Larkspur that are kid-friendly?

Yes, Larkspur has several restaurants that are great for families with kids. The Larkspur Café is a popular spot, offering a kids’ menu and a relaxed atmosphere. Another option is the Farm Shop, which has a play area and serves up delicious farm-to-table cuisine.

What are some good options for outdoor dining in Tiburon?

Tiburon has several restaurants with outdoor seating, offering stunning views of the Bay. Some top recommendations include The Tiburon Tavern, Servino Ristorante, and Guaymas. These restaurants offer a range of cuisines, from American to Italian to Mexican, and are all great options for a meal al fresco.