Where to Eat in Novato

Novato may be tucked away in the northern corner of Marin, but it has no lack of variety of places to eat, from a 100 percent gluten-free bakery to Goan curries, central Texas brisket and a Prohibition-themed piano dining room. Sitting on Marin’s northern edge, Novato offers everything from small cafes and wine bars to Marin favorites Hopmonk Tavern, Boca Pizzeria and Finnegan’s.

Most of the action sits on two strips: Grant Avenue downtown, and the Ignacio–Hamilton Field corridor to the south. Approximately 30 of the restaurants below are 2026 Best of the County winners, voted on by Marin Magazine readers. Standouts across categories: Masa’s Sushi for omakase, Belli Deli for unexpected Korean barbecue out of an RV park, Ayawaska for Peruvian ceviche with a view, and Hopmonk Tavern for a beer garden with live music.

Please view the restaurants’ websites or social feeds to confirm their most current operating hours and formats. Updated August 2026.

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Browse by Cuisine:

Al Fresco | Bakeries | Bar Dining | BBQ | Breakfast/Brunch | Breweries and Taprooms | Burgers | Chinese Food | Coffee Shop | Dive Bars | Fine Dining | French Food | Ice Cream/Frozen Yogurt | Juices/Teas/Smoothies | Indian Food | Italian Food | Latin American Food | Mexican Food | Middle Eastern & Mediterranean Food | Pizza | Ramen | Sandwiches | Seafood | Steakhouses | Sushi | Thai/Southeast Asian Food | Vegan & Vegetarian | Wine Bars

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Where to Eat in Novato

Bakeries

For more Bakeries in Marin, check out our Best of the County picks here.

Creekside Bakery

House made levain toast, quiche (smoked ham and Marin French brie is forever) and sandwiches on griddled ciabatta are part of the appeal of this long-running bakery and café but it’s the large assortment of cakes — from carrot and coffee crunch to St. Honoré and Black Forest — that have a dedicated following.

Flour Chylde

The 100% gluten-free bakery makes seasonal treats like soft pretzels for Oktoberfest and s’mores for Fourth of July. Many items, like the gooey cinnamon roll, snickerdoodles and multi-grain bread, are vegan, too.

Rustic Bakery

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.

Bars

For more Bars in Marin, check out our Best of the County picks here.

Finnegan’s Marin

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.

Perry’s Novato

Although he’s lived in Larkspur for almost 50 years, Perry Butler only opened his restaurant there in 2015, 46 years after opening Perry’s on Union Street in San Francisco. Novato welcomes the newest Perry’s, Butler’s fourth eponymously named restaurant. Perched on a hill overlooking the 101 freeway, Perry’s moved into the former Wildfox space. A wide bar frames one side of the room where familiar cocktails, like a Buffalo Trace Old Fashioned and draft beer are available. Look for the signature blue-and-white checker cloth table linens atop which Perry’s pot roast and iceberg wedge and other familiar American dishes like a traditional Cobb salad and spaghetti and meatballs are already right at home.

The Boardroom

A secret library connects The Speakeasy to owner and executive chef Munther Massarweh’s latest project, a “piano dining room” to build the attached Boardroom where shaded chandelier sconces and Prohibition-era photos (plus Marilyn Monroe and Elvis hang near white linen­-covered tables and dark leather chairs. It’s a good match for the classic wedge salad, escargot and herb-crusted filet mignon at lunch or dinner with a Fly Me to the Moon or martini cocktail, or avail yourself of the expansive wine menu.

The Speakeasy

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, cocktails range from the 1920’s to the 2020’s. A shareable, tapas-style menu includes grilled maitake mushrooms, escargot and mini street tacos.

BBQ

For more BBQ in Marin, check out our Best of the County picks here.

Belli Deli

There are no bells and whistles at this RV park deli better known for its California Reuben and Atherton Club sandwiches than its Korean barbecue. That needs to change. From a tiny, gas-fired grill, Korean-born chef-owner James Jung grills beef for garlic-and-vinegar seasoned bi-bim-bap and for stuffing into tofu sushi, among other treats. Though the kimchi isn’t grilled, it’s a must-try. “This restaurant is my retirement project,” Jung says and laughs.

Grab ‘n Go | Meal Under $20
1530 Armstrong Ave, 415.897.5770

Blazers Smokehouse & Beer Garden

Erick Hendricks (Hilltop 1892) and wife, Keri, brought in chef Dustin Vorkoeper to create plates of Southern style barbecue chicken, pulled pork, beef brisket and St. Louis ribs. There’s smoked brisket chili, a smoked brisket cheesesteak sandwich and even smoked cauliflower steaks. A black bean burger, jalapeño cole slaw and kale salad tempt when the need for fiber strikes. A kids’ menu includes classic Roy Rogers and Shirley Temple cocktails while 12 taps beckon with beer, kombucha and cider. Enjoy a meal at one of the covered picnic tables on the patio.

Breakfast/Brunch

For more Breakfast/Brunch in Marin, check out our Best of the County picks here.

Bacon Novato

You’ll find bacon throughout the menu in Benedicts and frittatas, on salads and burgers and so on. Be sure to check out the special Honey Bee Bacon: slabs are coated with brown sugar, chile flakes and cayenne plus a little bit of honey added during baking. Yum.

Marvin’s Restaurant

This place, known for “Best Breakfast in Novato,” also serves up generous portions for lunch. The corned beef hash, Benedicts and superb service draw a consistent crowd year-round.

Toast

With outdoor dining and spacious inside seating at Hamilton Marketplace, large parties, families and everyone else dives in on comfort food favorites like corned beef hash, buttermilk pancakes and at dinner, chicken schnitzel and shrimp scampi.

Dogs Welcome | Kid-friendly | Meal Under $20 | Outdoor Seating
5800 Nave Drive, 415.382.1144

Kitchen Novato

This hidden gem tucked in Hamilton Landing’s Hangar 6 boasts tasty breakfast and lunch, all of which can be enjoyed from its patio between hangars 5 and 6. Owner Deb Keith leans into her Italian background to create a nourishing menu, including dishes like the pupusa Benedict, the tri-tip sandwich (a bestseller) and an open-faced grilled eggplant and burrata toast. Pastries and desserts, all made in house, also draw the eye. With its fair share of regulars and visitors from around Marin, Kitchen is a top choice for a delicious meal.

Brewery

For more Breweries in Marin, check out our Best of the County picks here.

Adobe Creek

Bring your own food and well-behaved dog to enjoy the hop-forward flavors at this Marin-based small-batch brewery. Adobe Creek started production in March of 2017 and has since opened two locations in Novato and Petaluma. Head brewer Jonathan Macdonald comes from a home brewing background and is always experimenting with tastes and styles. Look forward to trying something new and unique each time you visit.

HenHouse Brewing Co.’s Record Room

Bartenders pour Incredible Pale Ale, Cascade Smash, Stoked and other pulls while spinning discs in a locals-oriented taproom downtown. The breezeway, decorated with custom-built 8×8 record art, hosts a shaded beer garden, and a rotating assortment of food trucks is on hand for that moment when hunger strikes. 

Hopmonk Tavern

The beer garden-style outdoor patio and live music keep fans coming back to this Novato brewhouse tucked into the Vintage Oaks Mall. And let’s not forget the ample selection of beers on tap.

The Keg Stand

Novato’s Indian Valley Microbrew Taproom has been purchased by a family business and is now operating as The Keg Stand. This refreshed name comes with expanded offerings and rotating taps, plus new implements like local food truck collabs and seasonal and specialty brews.

Chinese

For more Chinese food in Marin, check out our Best of the County picks here.

China Palace

For authentic Chinese cuisine in Novato, China Palace has a variety of tastes and dishes and uses high-quality, fresh ingredients. Stop by for dine-in or take-out when craving your favorite noodle dish.

Coffee Shops

For more Coffee Shops in Marin, check out our Best of the County picks here.

Dr. Insomniac’s

From blended coffees to fitness shakes to scuffins (what happens when “the best part of a scone and the best part of a muffin” are combined), find almost anything you could want for breakfast, lunch or snack time pick me up at this downtown Novato cafe. Their patio seating overlooks Grant Avenue is shaded and great for people-watching.

Marin Coffee Roasters Novato

Marin-based and obsessed with quality, Marin Coffee Roasters brews specialty coffee and serves fresh food every day.

Peet’s Novato

With over five locations in Marin County, it’s hard to miss Peet’s Coffee. It got its start in Berkeley in the 1960s and has become a nationwide coffee shop brand, but many of the locations still have that local coffee shop feel.

French

For more French food in Marin, check out our Best of the County picks here.

Beso Bistro and Wine Bar

This Hamilton Field restaurant highlights locally sourced organic produce, fresh sustainable seafood, and pasture-raised and free-range meat. Wine lovers can embrace their inner Dionysus — Beso offers more than 20 selections by the glass and more than 50 by the bottle. The patio is naturally shaded by local oaks.

Indian

For more Indian food in Marin, check out our Best of the County picks here.

Batika Indian Bistro

Batika Indian Bistro is the Novato spot for Indian cuisine made fresh daily by a chef of 20 years. It’s the perfect place for authentic flavor with atmosphere, as they offer both indoor and outdoor seating to take advantage of the beautiful Marin weather.

Little Goan

A western Indian state with a history of Portuguese colonization, Goa’s cuisine reflects unique dishes like xacuti with toasted coconut and regional spices. The vindaloos of Goa are known for their balanced flavor, but don’t come expecting the chef here to lay off the chiles — just be sure to order a vegetable biryani and a side of raita to cool things down.

Italian

For more Italian food in Marin, check out our Best of the County picks here.

Chianti Cucina

This cozy eatery offers an array of Italian and American dishes, including a long list of pastas; try the house-made ravioli cooked up by chef Edgar DeLon.

The Village Italian Restaurant

A Novato staple for any occasion, the Village captures hearts with comforting Italian fare served in its spacious downtown locale. They’ve got something for everybody, with ample options for pasta, pizza, salad and entrees like chicken parm or piccata. The carbonara? Che buono. Don’t miss the puffy, pillowy “pasta bread” — best eaten dripping in garlic butter.

Latin American

For more Latin American food in Marin, check out our Best of the County picks here.

Ayawaska

An outpost of the Petaluma original fittingly fills the landmark space that once housed Hilltop 1892. A menu of Peruvian classics includes lomo saltado and the country’s famous ceviches (try the a la Huancaina with the catch of the day). Huge glass-paned doors in the front room slide open to reveal the view. The brunch menu includes a Peruvian breakfast as well as more familiar fare like eggs Benedict and a chia pudding bowl.

Cocina Antigua

With a sign that is hard to see from South Novato Boulevard, a 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.

Holy Chile Mole

A 10^th-generation Romani-Serbian and current resident of Novato, Mark Adams runs a food truck with his wife, Deanna, that includes Serbian, American and Mexican flavors. He has a family recipe called chile mole salsa that goes back generations: Tomatoes, peppers and jalapeños are slow-roasted, then blended with seasonings and oil for an addictive sauce that is layered on everything from a street dog to vegan tacos and a club melt on sourdough. “Most people say it’s like nothing they’ve ever tried,” Adams says, who admits he will turn anything into a taco. Look for the truck on Saturday and Sunday at Larkspur’s Marin Country Mart and at the seasonal markets in Novato on Tuesday nights and Wednesdays in Fairfax.

Star Restaurant

Star Restaurant in Novato is back, cowboy style. The new owners are continuing to serve the beloved American breakfast, lunch and dinner in addition to new Latin American offerings. Whether you want pancakes or pupusas, you’ll find something to enjoy from Star’s massive menu. Slide into a booth and say howdy to your servers — decked out in cowboy garb.

Mexican

For more Mexican food in Marin, check out our Best of the County picks here.

Carmen’s La Hacienda

Carmen’s extensive menu of authentic Mexican dishes has a spicy, mild, or refreshing dish for everyone. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, the accessible location along with its burritos, fajitas and tortas has won the hearts of Novato residents.

Mamita Cocina Mexicana

The former Crave space pivoted to focus on the cuisine of Oaxaca with imported chilies and spices for the chicken enchiladas with mole coloradito and cauliflower al pastor with achiote and chipotle aioli. Heirloom corn masa is made in-house, a fine underpinning for quesabirria tacos at lunch and dinner and chilaquiles at breakfast. A tequila cart will transport some of the 60+ tequilas and margaritas from the bar straight to your table.

Mi Pueblo

Dine in or take out, Mi Pueblo serves up the Mexican classics to fix any craving.

Pizza

For more Pizza in Marin, check out our Best of the County picks here.

Boca Pizzeria

Enjoy authentic pizza prepared with house-pulled mozzarella and tomatoes imported from Italy, or go for a grilled rosemary chicken sandwich or the braised beef short rib pappardelle. Weekly specials include half off all wines by the bottle on Wednesdays and half off draft beers on Thursdays.

Red Boy Pizza Novato

Home of the famous sourdough crust since 1969 — is a family-owned, local favorite serving up top-quality food made with the finest ingredients. Enjoy a great selection of pizzas, pastas, soups, salads and more. Whether you’re dining in, taking out or ordering for FREE delivery, we’ve got you covered 7 days a week. Plus, our spacious restaurant features a private room, a kids’ area, TVs and more —perfect for any occasion. 

Stefano’s Novato

Stefano’s has several locations around Marin County, from Mill Valley to Novato. This Marin County mainstay claims to have served over ten million pizzas since 1972, so it’s safe to assume they know what they’re doing. 

Sandwiches

For more Sandwiches in Marin, check out our Best of the County picks here.

Blue Barn Gourmet

The second Marin outpost of the San Francisco-based eatery (the first is in Corte Madera) is popular for its customizable salads (we love the Casbah with toasted chickpeas and feta), toasted sandwiches (try the Buffalo Fry), seasonal soups and more, all prepared with locally harvested produce and proteins. The back patio is a popular hangout spot for families.

Dave’s Hot Chicken

Dave’s Hot Chicken is a casual spot specializing in Nashville-style hot chicken with customizable spice levels, crispy chicken sandwiches and classic Southern sides. Known for bold, flavorful comfort food made fresh and served fast.

Italian Delite

Supplying the town of Novato with original Italian subs since 1977, Italian Delite is a staple lunch stop for sandwich lovers in Marin.

Michael’s Sourdough

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 establishment. 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.

Sushi

For more Sushi in Marin, check out our Best of the County picks here.

Masa’s Sushi

Widely recognized for their work in sushi, the chefs turned their attention to another popular culinary export from Japan, dropping ramen onto the menu earlier this year. The singular ramen on offer is named for a coastal town on the northern island of Hokkaido. Tonkatsu broth is thickened with miso and topped with braised pork belly, corn and a golden-yolked egg. It’s a carnivorous bowl a fisherman would be proud to eat. For a traditional dining experience with high-quality fish, masterly crafted sushi dishes and more, reserve your spot for Masa’s Omakase style (chef’s choice) twelve-course prix fixe menu.

Sushi Tri

Novato’s Sushi Tri has become popular amongst locals of the northern Marin town. The restaurant offers all the traditional options those with a need to get their sushi fix will be looking for along with special rolls that keep people coming back. 

Taki

Taki Japanese Restaurant is another Novato sushi and Japanese restaurant offering popular with the people of northern Marin. Taki has offerings for everyone, whether it is fresh maki or gluten-free low-fat options, the Taki team has you covered. 

Thai/Southeast Asian

For more Burmese/ Laotian/ Thai/ Vietnamese/ Southeast Asian food in Marin, check out our Best of the County picks here.

La Maison De La Reine

After 20 years at Town Center in Corte Madera, this Vietnamese eatery has moved to Grant Avenue in Novato. Not just serving up Vietnamese classics on their lunch and dinner menus — though they do serve great pho, banh mi, vermicelli noodle bowls and so much more — La Maison de la Reine also offers 15 kinds of boba and milk tea, including some dairy-free options. And vegetarians have plenty of options to choose from, making this restaurant a great stop in Downtown Novato. 

Vegan / Vegetarian

For more Vegan/Vegetarian food in Marin, check out our Best of the County picks here.

Active Culture Café

An all-day café serves up plant-forward 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.

Trailhead

Order breakfast (the vegan egg sandwich is a must), shareable snacks (pretzel and Pliny beer cheese), paninis, salads and Equator coffee drinks at the counter before grabbing a seat on the all-day café’s shaded patio. The baked goat cheese is a standout and pairs with the 10 local beers and two wines available on tap or from the craft can program.

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Need more details on where to eat in Novato? Here are a few more recommendations…

Q: I want to know where the best restaurants are. Where should I go?

Marin Magazine readers voted approximately 30 Novato food spots 2026 Best of the County winners in their categories, including Creekside Bakery (Readers’ Choice Bakery), Flour Chylde and Rustic Bakery (Bakery), Finnegan’s Marin and The Speakeasy/The Boardroom (Bar Dining), Belli Deli (Barbecue), Bacon Novato and Marvin’s Breakfast Club (Breakfast/Brunch), Adobe Creek, Hopmonk Tavern, Dr. Insomniac’s and Marin Coffee Roasters (Coffee), Batika Indian Bistro and Little Goan (Indian), Chianti Cucina and The Village Italian Restaurant (Italian), Ayawaska and Cocina Antigua (Latin American), Carmen’s La Hacienda, Mamita Cocina Mexicana and Mi Pueblo (Readers’ Choice Mexican), Italian Delite and Michael’s Sourdough Sandwiches (Readers’ Choice Sandwiches), Masa’s Sushi, Taki and Sushi Tri (Sushi), and Active Culture Café (Vegan/Vegetarian).

Q: Where should I eat in downtown Novato?

Grant Avenue is downtown Novato’s main dining strip. Within a few blocks you’ll find Creekside Bakery, Rustic Bakery and Flour Chylde for pastries, Dr. Insomniac’s for coffee, Finnegan’s Marin for Irish-inspired pub food, HenHouse Brewing Co.’s Record Room for beer, plus Masa’s Sushi, Batika Indian Bistro, Blue Barn Gourmet, Mi Pueblo, Carmen’s La Hacienda, The Village Italian Restaurant, Marvin’s Restaurant, Bacon Novato and La Maison de la Reine for Vietnamese.

Q: Which Novato restaurants have outdoor seating?

More than two dozen, including Rustic Bakery’s patio, Beso Bistro’s oak-shaded patio at Hamilton Field, Hopmonk Tavern’s beer garden, Adobe Creek, The Keg Stand, Blazers Smokehouse & Beer Garden, Dr. Insomniac’s on Grant Avenue, Trailhead, Active Culture Café, Kitchen Novato between hangars 5 and 6, Mamita Cocina Mexicana, Boca Pizzeria, Chianti Cucina, Taki and Michael’s Sourdough.

Q: Where can I eat in Novato with kids?

Kid-friendly picks include Blazers Smokehouse & Beer Garden (covered picnic tables and a kids’ menu with Roy Rogers and Shirley Temples), Boca Pizzeria, Red Boy Pizza, Toast at Hamilton Marketplace, Marvin’s Restaurant, Blue Barn Gourmet’s back patio, Mi Pueblo, China Palace, Little Goan and Active Culture Café, which customizes any menu item for dietary needs.

Q: Which Novato restaurants are dog friendly?

Dogs are welcome in the outdoor areas at Creekside Bakery, Rustic Bakery, Bacon Novato, Toast, Adobe Creek Brewing, HenHouse Brewing Co.’s Record Room, The Keg Stand, Beso Bistro and Wine Bar, Perry’s Novato, Marin Coffee Roasters, Cocina Antigua, Dave’s Hot Chicken, Italian Delite, Taki, Active Culture Café and Trailhead.

Q: Where can I get a good meal in Novato for under $20?

Belli Deli, Italian Delite, Michael’s Sourdough, Flour Chylde, Little Goan, China Palace, Mi Pueblo, Red Boy Pizza, Marvin’s Restaurant, Blue Barn Gourmet, Trailhead, Active Culture Café, Cocina Antigua and the Holy Chile Mole food truck all serve meals under $20.

Q: Does Novato have good barbecue?

Yes. Belli Deli, a 2026 Best of the County winner tucked into an RV park, is known for its California Reuben and Atherton Club sandwiches as well as Korean-born chef-owner James Jung’s grilled beef and kimchi. Blazers Smokehouse & Beer Garden on Redwood Boulevard serves Southern-style barbecue chicken, pulled pork, beef brisket and St. Louis ribs alongside 12 taps of beer, kombucha and cider.

Q: Where should I go for a date night in Novato?

The Boardroom at The Speakeasy pairs a piano dining room and Prohibition-era decor with wedge salad, escargot and herb-crusted filet mignon. Other date-night picks include Beso Bistro and Wine Bar, with more than 20 wines by the glass; Ayawaska for Peruvian classics with a view; Mamita Cocina Mexicana with its tequila cart and 60-plus tequilas; Masa’s Sushi for the twelve-course omakase; Chianti Cucina; and Boca Pizzeria.

Q: Is Novato a good place for breweries and beer?

Novato has one of Marin’s densest concentrations of taprooms. Adobe Creek Brewing and Hopmonk Tavern are both 2026 Best of the County winners; HenHouse Brewing Co.’s Record Room downtown pours Incredible Pale Ale and Cascade Smash in a record-art beer garden with rotating food trucks, and The Keg Stand on Railroad Avenue rounds out the list.

Q: How many restaurants are in Marin Magazine’s Novato guide?

This guide covers 45 Novato restaurants, bakeries, breweries, coffee shops and food trucks across 17 categories, and is updated by Marin Magazine‘s editors throughout the year.

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