Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines share many common ingredients like olives, olive oils, pitas, honey and chickpeas. Not surprisingly, they also share similar dishes like hummus, falafel, and kebab variations. Mainly using fresh, clean, and veggie-focused ingredients, these diets are known as some of the healthiest ways to eat. The Mediterranean is a blue zone (an area identified for having the happiest, healthiest and longest-living populations).
The 2026 readers’ choice Best of the County winner is Insalata’s (pictured above). For the rest of the Marin Magazine‘s Best of Marin County Mediterranean and Middle Eastern food picks see below.
Our 2026 Dining category sponsor is Marin Dish. View the rest of the Dining category here.
Southern
Mill Valley – Sausalito – Tiburon
Central
Corte Madera – Fairfax – Greenbrae – Kentfield – Larkspur – Ross – San Anselmo – San Rafael
Northern
Novato
West
Bolinas – Forest Knolls – Inverness – Lagunitas – Marshall – Nicasio – Point Reyes – Stinson Beach – Tamales – Woodacre
Central Marin
Insalata’s
San Anselmo
If you’re looking for some great Mediterranean dishes, award-winning chef Heidi Krahling’s downtown restaurant has featured soulful Mediterranean plates for over 25 years. 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
Kababbq Grill & Cafe
San Rafael
Specializing in fresh, flavorful Persian and Mediterranean grilled meats, falafel, salads and rice dishes, Kababbq has something for everyone in its cozy, casual storefront. Check out their family style menus for a large group — as well as the extensive hamburger menu, which includes a Persian-style hamburger.
555 Francisco Blvd E, San Rafael, 415.256.9878
Explore Marin County’s top restaurants, cafés, and culinary experiences through Marin Magazine’s Best of the County. This annual guide spotlights the dining destinations locals love most — from fine dining to casual favorites.
Each listing is backed by reader votes, ensuring that only the most recommended restaurants make the list. Top-voted businesses earn Readers’ Choice recognition, making this a trusted resource for discovering where to eat in Marin.
See more top-rated spots across categories in the full Best of the County guide, featuring top businesses across dining, wellness, services, shopping, and more.
Know a business that should be included? Submit a suggestion to our editorial team and look out for nominations in early 2027.
Are you a BOC business but want to change your photo, or did we miss including it? Submit your new photo here.
Dining Sponsor
The Marin Dish
The Marin Dish is your go-to guide for food and fun in Marin. From buzzworthy restaurant openings and hidden wine bars to mouthwatering happy hours, can’t-miss foodie events, and live music, we uncover the places that make Marin such a vibrant place to live, dine, and explore.
Founded by lifelong Marin County resident Kevin Blum, The Marin Dish
celebrates the people and businesses that give the county its unique flavor.
More than just a local guide, it’s a community where restaurants, bars, and
small businesses share their stories, promote seasonal specials and events,
and connect with an engaged audience of food lovers and local explorers.
Whether you’re on the hunt for your next favorite burger, planning an
unforgettable date night, or looking for the hottest event in town, The Marin
Dish is here to help you make the most of Marin.
The Marin Dish | Mill Valley, CA 415.290.2767 | themarindish.com
