Best Local Restaurants in Marin County
Best Local Restaurants
in Marin County
Ever wonder what’s just beyond the Golden Gate? Marin County, of course! Maybe you’re looking for an alfresco dining experience outside of the City’s Marine Layer or maybe you’re roadtripping from San Francisco to the famous Napa Valley. Either way, if you’re thinking about stopping in Marin for some bites, I’ve got you covered. Here are the best local restaurants in Marin County:
restaurants in marin
Sushi Ran
Town: Sausalito
What to Order: Yaki Nasu, Spicy Tuna, Negihama
From the drinks, to the appetizers, to the mains, and even to the ambiance, Sushi Ran is a locals’ favorite spot that definitely delivers.
I visited with coworkers and in addition to the sushi, we LOVED the Yaki Nasu eggplant small plate so much that we ordered it twice!
restaurants in marin
Copita Tequileria y Comida
Executive Chef Aaron Sabido serves up seasonal and modern Mexican fare – with a twist – at this Sausalito staple.
In true California fashion, Copita’s menu happens to be completely gluten-free and include local produce and organic handmade tortillas.
And if the food doesn’t already convince you to dine here, maybe the drinks will! Copita has over 100 tequilas, mezcals, and an award-winning margarita.
What to Order: Vegetarian Empanadas*, Spring Ceviche, Tacos Al Pastor, Tacos Fried Cauliflower
restaurants in marin
Joinery
Located just along the water in Sausalito, Joinery is a casual and low-key beer hall with filling rotisserie dishes.
Come here for a fun communal setting that’s a bit more upscale than your average beer pub.
Secret Tip:
Many restaurants in Marin close early (typically around 8-9PM PT)! Joinery is one that closes around that even earlier 8PM mark. To enjoy it to its fullest, come with friends for lunch or an afternoon hang.
Town: Sausalito
What to Order: Fattoush Salad, Joinery Burger (Impossible Burgers are available!), Butternut Squash Hummus
restaurants in marin
Flores
The Marin County outpost of San Francisco’s popular Cow Hollow restaurant, Flores cooks up some amazing Mexican cuisine.
Town: Corte Madera
What to Order: Quinoa Salad with Chicken Adobo, Tacos Vegetariano, Ceviche Mixto Campechano
restaurants in marin
Farm Shop
Like the name suggests, Farm Shop is a Marin County restaurant with farm-to-table ingredients and an artisan food and wine shop.
With a California-inspired menu and artistic interior design, it is my absolute favorite restaurant in Marin! I’ve dined here a handful of times and always come back for their orange wines, and fresh seafood and rich pizzas.
For dairy-allergy sufferers, like myself, Farm Shop has plenty of substitutes to help you enjoy the menu to its fullest!
Town: Larkspur
What to Order: Wild Mushroom Pizza, Citrus Cured Hamachi, San Francisco Bay Seared Rockfish
Food and Wine Shop
Definitely peruse Farm Shop’s food and wine store after your meal. Wines from the restaurant menu are sold by the bottle here, just at more convenient prices.
Also in the shop? A diverse array of artisan dark chocolates and organic goodies that are highly worth the visit alone.
restaurants in marin
Hog Island Oyster Co.
A nice spot for lunch on a warm day, Hog Island Oyster Co. has some of the best seafood in Marin County!
And if you’re not a big fan of oysters, don’t worry. Hog Island has you covered. The restaurant offers plenty of salads, sandwiches and other entree-portioned plates and bowls. I sampled a few items during my visit and loved the fish tacos.
Not a Seafood Fan?
If you’re not a fan of seafood or are dining with picky eaters or the allergy-prone, I’d recommend trying a different spot on this list. Because as good as Hog Island Oyster Co. is, the menu is heavily seafood-based.
Town: Larkspur, Marshall
What to Order: Fish Tacos with Avocado, Halibut Risotto*, Oyster Mushrooms
restaurants in marin
Picco
Nestled in Larkspur’s historic district, Picco is technically two restaurants in one: a main Californian eatery and an offshoot pizzeria.
Cocktails are probably Picco’s biggest draw. From a selection of liquors like Tequila Ocho and The Botanist Gin to cocktails like the Forever Young and Don’t Make It Weird, Picco bartenders can satisfy just about any palette.
Town: Larkspur
What to Order: Forever Young Cocktail, Wok Tossed Broccolini de Ciccio
restaurants in marin
Blue Barn
Blue Barn is a healthy lunch spot with a great variety of sandwiches and salads to satisfy all preferences. Both of the restaurants Marin County locations offer wine, beer and kombucha, making their inviting indoor and alfresco dining spaces the perfect spots to stay a while and enjoy the afternoon.
Town: Corte Madera, Novato
What to Order: Thai Chicken Salad, Spicy Tuna Salad
*Food contains dairy or has no dairy-free substitutions. These dishes were recommended by family and friends who do not have the same allergy restrictions that I do!