Looking for the best restaurants in Marin County? After living in the San Rafael and San Francisco area for a decade, here are my favorite places to eat in Marin. I’ve taken all of my local finds plus some new spots I think you’ll love.
Marin County lies just north of San Francisco across the Golden Gate Bridge. Marin is a beautiful part of Northern California with amazing nature, small towns, and lots of great restaurants. I grew up coming here as my grandparents lived here and then spent a lot of time the last decade as we lived in Marin for some time.
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I always love to share this travel tip. If you’re looking to get out in nature, head straight to Mount Tamalpais, also known as “Mount Tam.” It provides beautiful views of the Bay Area, including Stinson Beach and the Mount Tam mountain range. Some other of my favorite local areas of Marin to explore include Mill Valley, Larkspur, and Corte Madera.
Dining experiences here often take a farm-to-table approach, with sustainability and locally sourced ingredients a prominent feature in the culinary scene. Whether you’re exploring small towns or spending a weekend in Marin County, these are the best restaurants to visit.
Planning a Trip to Marin County? Here Are My Top Picks for the Best Hotels in Marin:
- Cavallo Point (Sausalito), for the best luxury hotel
- Nick’s Cove (Marshall), for the best waterfront hotel
- Casa Madrona (Sausalito), for the best boutique hotel
- Timber Cove Resort (Jenner), for the best family-friendly hotel
For more on how to make the most of your time in Marin County, don’t miss these guides:
- The 20 Best Restaurants in Sausalito, California
- A Weekend Guide to Point Reyes Station, California
- A Three-Night Road Trip On Northern California’s Coast
The 20 Best Marin Restaurants
1. Sula at Cavallo Point (Sausalito)
Sula offers a sophisticated dining experience at Cavallo Point, seamlessly merging tradition with modernity. Chef Michael Garcia introduces an ingredient-driven menu with Asian influences and a touch of Northern California’s local charm. The menu extends to carefully curated cocktails, showcasing small-batch distillers and global wines.
Address: 602 Murray Cir, Sausalito, CA 94965
2. Stillwater (Fairfax)
Stillwater, set in the heart of Fairfax, offers a welcoming ambiance for food, friends, and drinks. The bar is a highlight with signature cocktails like the Stillwater Margarita and the King of the Road. The menu, featuring little bites and bigger bites, spans from nachos to Stemple Creek cheeseburgers. I think this is one of the best restaurants around and a complete hidden gem.
23 Broadway, Fairfax, CA 94930
3. Petite Left Bank (Tiburon)
Located in the heart of Marin County’s Tiburon peninsula, Petite Left Bank has all the modern French charm. Chef Roland Passot’s bistro offers an inviting atmosphere inspired by the iconic brasseries of Paris’ Left Bank. With handcrafted dishes blending modern techniques and French heritage, it transforms into a lively space at night. Whether enjoying French classics, sipping wine on the patio, or opting for takeout, Petite Left Bank is one of my go-to’s.
Address: 1696 Tiburon Blvd, Tiburon, CA 94920
4. Sol Food (San Rafael and Mill Valley)
Sol Food was the restaurant we ate at most when we lived in San Rafael. Don’t let the long line deter you, it’s well worth the wait. Their Puerto Rican classics are second to none. The Pollo al Horno (baked chicken) and Chuletas Fritas (pan-fried pork chops) paired with Plátano Maduro (sweet plantains) and Habichuelas Rosadas (pink beans) are our favorites. Be sure to grab a bottle of their Pique hot sauce to go.
Address: 903 Lincoln Ave, San Rafael, CA 94901, 401 Miller Ave, Mill Valley, CA 94941
5. The Marshall Store (Marshall, Near Point Reyes)
This is where to go for the freshest Pacific Oysters. The Marshall Store serves seafood with Pacific Preston Point Oysters in raw, grilled, and tasty styles. Other menu favorites include clam chowder and fish tacos. I love to pop in here for a quick bite when exploring the Point Reyes area.
Address: 19225 CA-1, Marshall, CA 94940
6. Marché (Ross)
Darren and Alicia Banks began their restaurant adventure with a seaside eatery in Anguilla. Returning to Marin Country, they took over the reins at the beloved local restaurant Marché aux Fleurs. They prioritize quality by using fresh ingredients from local farms, wine from small wineries, and locally brewed beers.
Address: 23 Ross Common Box 1331, Ross, CA 94957
7. Farmshop (Larkspur)
Farmshop Marin offers an elevated experience in the heart of Larkspur Landing. It’s one of my favorite local restaurants for fresh food. Their brunch lunch offering is one of the best in the area as well. If you’re looking for something to do after, explore the shops in the courtyard. There are some great spots here!
Address: 2233 Larkspur Landing Cir, Larkspur, CA 94939
8. Paseo: A California Bistro (Mill Valley)
Chef Sylvain Montassier’s New American menu at Paseo is a testament to seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. Some highlights of the dinner menu are tuna tartare, squid ink pasta, and a classic pork chop. With a focus on California terroir, the wine program features 120 selections from the surrounding region. It has a rustic yet sophisticated ambiance, complete with natural light, wood-beamed ceilings, and alfresco seating.
Address: 17 Throckmorton Ave, Mill Valley, CA 94941
9. Mamahuhu (Mill Valley)
This Chinese-American restaurant by chef Brandon Jew has been popular in Marin County for a while. With responsible food practices, Mamahuhu brings together culinary expertise from Shanghai’s first organic restaurant and San Francisco’s Mister Jiu’s. Mamahuhu uses local organic ingredients and supports the community by making dishes from scratch with transparently raised animals.
173 Throckmorton Ave, Mill Valley, CA 94941
10. Sushi Ran (Sausalito)
Sushi Ran is one of my favorite restaurants for Japanese cuisine in Sausalito. Although there may be limited seating here, the wait is well worth it. The food is sophisticated and elevated, yet down to earth. Their nigiri, in particular, is some of my favorite in Marin. This is one of the spots I always recommend to friends.
Address: 107 Caledonia St, Sausalito, CA 94965
11. The Caprice (Tiburon)
With a 66-year heritage, The Caprice reopened in 2021 after a stunning renovation. It has a modern design and great views of the Golden Gate Bridge, Angel Island, and San Francisco. The new menu offers delicious food, tasty drinks, and a great selection of wines. As one of the fancier fine dining restaurants in Marin County, this would be great for a special occasion.
Address: 2000 Paradise Dr, Tiburon, CA 94920
12. Lotus Cuisine of India (San Rafael)
If you’re looking for great modern Indian cuisine, head to Lotus. Lotus, along with Sol Food, were our most frequented restaurants when we lived in San Rafael. Family owned, with a passionate focus on sourcing the best ingredients (most of their menu is organic), it’s a true gem. Our favorite dishes are the chicken tikka masala, saag paneer, and garlic naan, Be sure to visit the attached Lotus Market Indian grocery store to stock up on ingredients, snacks, and spices.
Address: 812 4th St, San Rafael, CA 94901
13. Bungalow 44 (Mill Valley)
Bungalow 44 has been a go-to neighborhood hotspot for a long time. With an emphasis on New American and California home cooking, ingredients are sourced locally from Marin. Some of the seasonally inspired dishes include hamachi, brussels sprouts, braised short ribs, a burger with white cheddar and smoked onion rings.
Address: 44 E Blithedale Ave, Mill Valley, CA 94941
14. Gravity Tavern (Mill Valley)
Gravity Tavern offers a blend of Modern American tavern fare and comforting old-world dishes. Enjoy regional wines, craft beers, and creative cocktails from the full bar with a daily Happy Hour from 3-6 pm. The last Thursday of every month features a different winery, highlighting the best of the region’s viticulture.
Address: 38 Miller Ave Suite 1, Mill Valley, CA 94941
15. Il Davide (San Rafael)
Il Davide is one of Marin County’s best Italian restaurants, and always a favorite of locals. As a Marin County native, owner David Haydon crafts a distinctive menu by sourcing local ingredients. This is what sets Il Davide apart from traditional Toscano-style establishments. I like to come here for the pasta that is just easy-going and tasty.
Address: 901 A St, San Rafael, CA 94901
16. The Restaurant at Nick’s Cove (Marshall, Near Point Reyes)
A West Marin County institution for over 90 years, The Restaurant at Nick’s Cove offers a relaxing and beautiful dining spot. This is one of my local favorites in the Point Reyes area. The menu is seafood-forward with fresh oysters, fish and chips, and other classics. The views of Tomales Bay from the outdoor seating are just the best and it’s an absolute local gem.
Address: 23240 CA-1, Marshall, CA 94940
17. SANkorean Kitchen (San Rafael)
Founded by Monica Chang, SANkorean Kitchen serves delicious and nutritious Korean food. Inspired by her memories of growing up in Gwangju, Korea, famous for kimchi and the World Kimchi Festival, Monica shares family recipes passed down through generations. SANkorean Kitchen caters to health-conscious individuals, offering fiber-rich, probiotic, and gluten-free options without compromising taste.
Address: 2165 Francisco Blvd E Unit C, San Rafael, CA 94901
18. Buckeye Roadhouse (Mill Valley)
Set in an Aspen lodge-style building with a rustic bar and a river-rock fireplace, Buckeye Roadhouse is a Marin County dining gem. Executive Chef Robert Price crafts traditional American cuisine with a Californian contemporary twist.
Address: 15 Shoreline Hwy, Mill Valley, CA 94941
19. Guesthouse Marin (Kentfield)
Guesthouse brings vibrant American cuisine to central Marin, driven by California seasonality and local farm-sourced ingredients. Creative classics from the open kitchen include mini lobster rolls, roasted squash bisque with tahini, ricotta, and black truffle agnolotti. Craft cocktails, like the Dry Mezcal Negroni, and a curated wine list focus on organic and biodynamic varieties. The interior features an open kitchen with a 16-seat concrete bar.
Address: 850 College Ave, Kentfield, CA 94904
20. Insalata’s (San Anselmo)
Insalata’s offers a warm, welcoming atmosphere for every occasion. The Bib Gourmand-awarded restaurant combines Middle Eastern flavors with California cuisine. The menu features crowd favorites like lamb burgers, mezze, and delightful desserts. With a 27-year legacy, Insalata’s continues to provide an elevated dining experience with an expansive dining room, an intimate outdoor patio, and impeccable service.
Address: 120 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, San Anselmo, CA 94960
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My favorite companies that offer the best coverage and rates are:
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Xx,
Jessica
