San Rafael is Marin’s answer to urban. Equal parts sprawling, gritty, and gentrified, its dining activity centers mostly in the downtown and West End grid with Terra Linda emerging as a dining destination (Lou’s Takeaway, Monk’s Kettle, Lo Coco) and outliers along Miracle Mile and the industrial stretch along 580 into the Canal neighborhood. The options are as varied as the neighborhoods, with fast bites and ethnic eats alongside hole-in-the-wall favorites and sit-down dining.
Be sure to check each restaurant’s website or social pages to confirm its most current hours of operation and services.
Bakery | Bar | Barbecue | Breakfast | Burger | Brewery | Coffee Shop | Chinese and Korean | Ice Cream | Indian | Italian | Latin American | Mexican | Mediterranean | Pizza | Ramen | Sandwiches | Seafood | Steakhouse | Sushi | Tea, Juice & Smoothies | Thai | Vegan & Vegetarian
This symbol indicates a Best of the County Readers’ Choice recipient.
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Bakery
For more Bakeries in Marin, check out our Best of the County picks here.
Baked Blooms
If you are in need of a beautiful centerpiece, a tasty dessert or both, then you should browse Baked Blooms’ beautiful bouCAKEs! Decorated as extremely realistic bouquets of flowers, Baked Blooms’ small-batched, exquisitely arranged cupcakes never fail to impress. You can create a custom batch, or choose from one of their prearranged bouCAKEs. If you are having any doubts, just ask the judges of Cupcake Wars!
2025 Best of the County for Bakeries.
Offers Takeout & Delivery | Women-Owned | Catering
2100 Fourth St Suite A, 415.419.2646
Bordanave’s Bakery
Well-known for their bread at many Bay Area restaurants, the brand also runs a storefront in San Rafael’s West End where you can buy the same dinner rolls, strawberry cheese croissants and Dutch crunch “longie” baguettes as everyone else.
Grab ‘n Go | Kid-friendly
1512 Fourth St, 415.453.2957
Johnny Doughnuts
The fresh doughnuts are handmade in small batches each morning with all local, organic ingredients. Options include vegan (made from sweet potatoes) and wheat-free doughnuts for the gluten-sensitive, with local dairy products in the dough and fillings. Stop by the shop in the West End, which has wide benches for on-the-spot noshing, or have the food truck come to you.
Dogs Welcome | Grab ‘n Go | Kid-friendly | Outdoor Seating
1617 Fourth St, 415.450.1866
Ponsford’s Place
Open one day (Saturday), Craig Ponsford’s shop is a self-proclaimed “eccentric place, where things change all the time.” Ponsford’s style leans into traditional European breads and viennoiserie, with a focus on locally milled flours from Petaluma’s Central Milling, Community Grains in Oakland and Marin’s Honoré Farm and Mill. Chocolate coins (mendiants), savory pumpkin pie, sour rye, pumpernickel, and a baguette with a crisp crust and tender crumb said to be “the best” by the French (Ponsford’s team won the baguette category in the 1996 Coupe du Monde de la Boulangerie) are wintery items that you should be able to find when you stop in.
2025 Best of the County for Bakeries.
Grab ‘n Go | Kid-friendly | Meal Under $20
117 Shaver St.
Sweetly Cali
Downtown San Rafael welcomed chef/owner Glenda Sagucio and owner Maria Sagucio’s dessert shop in mid-October. Sugar-free house made nut butters (pistachio, hazelnut), panna cottas (12+ flavors, including ube, mango, coconut), Belgian Liege waffles, croissants and cookies as well as toasts (avocado, salmon, Caprese) are available alongside Broadcast Coffee drinks, chai and lemonade. Keto options are available.
Grab ‘n Go | Kid-friendly
1109 Fourth St, 415.717.8557
Woodbine Bakery
No walk-ins, just pre-orders available for a bakery run by head baker Emilee Bernas whose focus is custom-designed cakes.
Grab ‘n Go
625 Du Bois St, 415.306.7617
Bar
For more Bars in Marin, check out our Best of the County picks here.
Red Rooster Brick Oven
Red Rooster Brick Oven is a longtime San Rafael dining spot. Known for its welcoming atmosphere and quality food, the restaurant offers both lunch and dinner with a focus on classic, memorable dishes.
901 B St, San Rafael, 415.234.8414
The Burren House
For a pint of Guinness and a football match (that’s soccer for you Yankees), The Burren House is San Rafael’s new Irish pub, open for lunch, dinner and late-night libations. The interior is pulled straight from the Emerald Isle, with its furniture, art and millwork made by Irish artisans, and even fossilized Liscannor stone imported from the Burren, an area of incredible rocky landscape in County Clare. Dig into their burger, or pub favorites like fish and chips, shepherd’s pie and bangers and mash.
2025 Best of the County for Bar Dining.
Kid-friendly | New Hot Spot | Watch the Game
925 Fourth Street, 415.690.1222
California Gold
Death Proof, a “lethal” blend of dark rum, Calvados, orange, and aromatic bitters, is just one of the pre-Tiki, handmade drinks that highlight the cocktail menu in the slickly comfortable space, decked out in a style befitting the Roaring Twenties. The drinks range from California beer styles on the 12 taps to globally-sourced wines. Fresh cocktails, like the Tropical, Smash and Thunderbolt, feature produce sourced from the San Rafael farmers’ markets. Enjoy them at an outdoor table.
Date Spot | Full Bar | Happy Hour | Outdoor Seating | Worth the Hype
848 B St, 707.337.6159
Flatiron
The remodeled Flatiron is where refined American bar food lives happily in its ideal environment — with a selection of craft beers. Owned by the Strickers, a husband-and-wife duo, this polished sports bar serves noshes like chili lime cauliflower, classic sandwiches and truffle and waffle fries in a space that also features classic arcade games.
2025 Best of the County for Bar Dining.
Good for Groups | Happy Hour Specials
724 B St, 415.453.4318
Pete’s 881 Club
Opening in 1951 and now located at 721 Lincoln in San Rafael, this spacious one-room (plus an outdoor patio) saloon is possibly more sports bar than actual dive, but it still made our list. Secret to the longevity? It could be that it’s the only legal gambling spot in Marin with a daily Texas hold ’em game or that the kitchen stays open until 1 a.m. or that there are 10 TVs constantly broadcasting sports games. However, most would agree it’s the warmth of the Pellolio family — patrons love to order Grandpa Pete’s Chicken Anselmo — that keep folks coming back for more.
2025 Best of the County for Dive Bar.
Outdoor Seating | Watch the Game | Full Bar | Meal Under $20 | Brunch
721 Lincoln Ave, 415.453.5888
Ranch Water
Ranch Water’s remodeled San Rafael location brings new entertainment, music and tequila-forward cocktails to Fourth Street. Ranch Water was created by mixologist Johnny Metheny, AKA Johnny Love. Beyond tequila, Ranch Water boasts a full bar and more than a few TVs to catch your favorite sports. Look forward to weekly events like Margarita Mondays, karaoke on Wednesdays and live music Thursday and Saturday nights.
Date Spot | Watch the Game | Full Bar
711 Fourth St, 415.785.4957
Red Rooster Brick Oven
Red Rooster Brick Oven is a longtime San Rafael dining spot. Known for its welcoming atmosphere and quality food, the restaurant offers both lunch and dinner with a focus on classic, memorable dishes.
2025 Best of the County for Bar Dining, Burger, Italian, Pizza, and Sandwiches.
Good for Kids | Happy Hour Specials | Outdoor Seating | Dogs Allowed
901 B St, 415.234.8414
VIN
Same digs, new name. VIN is the new Fourth Street destination for shared plates, fresh pasta and inventive cocktails — in the rebranded and refreshed space of Vin Antico.
Full Bar
881 Fourth St, 415.721.0600
Barbecue
For more Barbecue in Marin, check out our Best of the County picks here.
Forrest Fire BBQ
Forrest Murray, Jr. of San Rafael’s Forrest Fire BBQ designed the perfect tribute to his father: Saint Louis-style pork ribs, chicken, and beef tri-tip, cooked low and slow before he pulls them from a wood-stoked barbecue. These are the signature meals he prepares on his Southern Pride Smoker outside Marinwood Market in San Rafael on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, with his mobile catering business and soon at United Markets, San Rafael and Gold Gate Market, Sausalito. Inside a cast iron pan logo of his business rests an outline of the state of Alabama stamped with “928” to reflect Murray’s roots and the date of his dad’s birthday.
Grab ‘n Go | Kid-friendly | Meal Under $20
628.800.3473
Kababbq
The go-to dish at owner Ali Mobasser’s Persian barbecue restaurant is the koobideh. Seasoned with grated onion and seven spices, including turmeric, saffron, sumac and white pepper, the meat is “koobidehed” (meaning, beaten with the spices) before grilling. While the outside is charred, the beef’s skewering allows for even internal heat and easy turning during cooking, locking in flavor. “It keeps the juices from spilling out,” says Mobasser.
2025 Best of the County for Barbecue and Middle Eastern/Mediterranean.
Grab ‘n Go | Kid-friendly | Meal Under $20 | Outdoor Seating
555 E. Francisco Blvd, 415.256.9878
Breakfast
For more Breakfast/Brunch in Marin, check out our Best of the County picks here.
Garden Cafe
A cozy Latino-American diner near Gerstle Park, Garden Café offers a vibrant menu featuring dishes like country fried steak, cinnamon roll pancakes and soft scrambled eggs with chicken apple sausage.
2025 Best of the County for Breakfast/Brunch.
Dogs Allowed | Good for Kids | Good for Groups | Outdoor Seating
718 B St, 415.295.7285
Lundy’s Home Cooking
A staple to the San Rafael community, Lundy’s Home Cooking checks every box of your classic diner experience. Their slogan, “ great food, wonderful prices, casual dining,” rings true with their welcoming ambiance and breakfast classics that don’t break the bank. Located on Fourth Street in San Rafael, stop by to enjoy an omelet, benedict, pancakes, biscuits, and more with their friendly staff.
Brunch | Kid-friendly | Meal Under $20
1143 Fourth St, 415.454.7700
Miracle Mile Cafe
Craving anything brunch? Miracle Mile is sure to have it. Beyond serving freshly made Benedicts, omelets, pancakes, sandwiches, waffles and more, they also offer the Bay Area’s largest gluten-free menu for gluten-free choices. A menu of American, Peruvian and Mexican cuisine works fresh and organic ingredients into every meal. Top everything off with a cocktail, espresso drink or a selection from the juice bar.
2025 Best of the County for Breakfast/Brunch.
Brunch | Kid-friendly | Outdoor Seating | Dogs Welcome | Watch the Game
2130 Fourth St, 415.454.7700
Sour Kid Cafe
With a name reflecting the flavor of their well-regarded bread at next door’s Michael’s Sourdough Sandwiches, mom-son owners Jole and Christopher Braun’s morning café serves up a full espresso bar with coffees from San Francisco’s Grand Coffee Roasters and fresh pastries from Woodbine Bakery and Rustic Bakery. Breakfast sandwiches like bacon, egg and cheddar or avocado toast are served on the family’s famous sourdough bread.
Meal Under $20 | Kid-Friendly
999 Andersen Dr, Ste. 160, 415.457.0113
Brewery
For more Breweries in Marin, check out our Best of the County picks here.
Monk’s Kettle
Like the original in San Francisco, Christian Albertson’s restaurant in the shopping center kitty-corner from the Terra Linda Pool serves quaffable beers (like Pliny the Elder on tap), burgers, and pub grub to match the suds. The Mission Fried Chicken has an ardent following but there are plenty of veg-forward offerings, too, all to be enjoyed on the shaded patio.
2025 Best of the County for Burger and Brewery.
Brunch | Date Spot | Dogs Welcome | Kid-friendly | Meal Under $20 | Outdoor Seating | Private Party Room | Watch the Game
655 Del Ganado Rd, 415.991.5103
Ounces Outdoors
Enjoy a small-batch, locally brewed beer or cider at an all-outdoor, dog-friendly beer garden with fire pits and bocce courts. Grab a seat at a picnic table before digging into a chile verde pork or steak and mushroom savory pie, a warm pretzel with mustard, or a caramelized onion grilled cheese sandwich.
2025 Best of the County for Brewery.
Date Spot | Dogs Welcome | Kid-friendly | Meal Under $20 | Outdoor Seating | Watch the Game
5800 Northgate Dr, 877.747.0383
Pond Farm Brewing
The microbrewery in the West End from husband and wife team Trevor and Stephanie Martens has a rotating list of beers on tap from brewer Trevor, pop-up food from local businesses in the beer garden, and snacks at the bar. Stein parking is available.
2025 Best of the County for Brewery.
Date Spot | Dogs Welcome | Grab ‘n Go | Kid-friendly | Meal Under $20 | Outdoor Seating
1848 Fourth St, 415.524.8709
State Room
The modern gastropub vibe suits its downtown San Rafael locale, where draft beers are made on-site and are available in sizes from half-pints to take-home growlers; beer flights are also available. The menu, created by Alex Stricker and Andrew Toy, changes seasonally and includes a burrata cheese BLT and sashimi-grade tuna poke.
Date Spot | Dogs Welcome | Full Bar | Kid-friendly | Meal Under $20 | Outdoor Seating | Watch the Game
1132 Fourth St, 415.295.7929
Tam Commons
With no outdoor space available when Covid hit, the Commons crew got to work, building a sweet streetside patio with the same comfortable, traditional pub-like feel as the interior. Known for their 34 beer taps, their cocktail menu includes a classic mai tai and craftier takes like the Japanese oak, with whiskey and tamarind. Get your bacon fix with the chef’s cobb salad or the mission dog — it’s wrapped in a porcine blanket.
2025 Best of the County for Al Fresco Dining.
1300 Fourth St, 415.521.5770
Burger
For more Burgers in Marin, check out our Best of the County picks here.
Bogie’s Too
Relocated from the Civic Center to downtown San Rafael after 29 years, this second coming of Bogie’s highlights breakfast, brunch, and lunch. Organic eggs anchor a breakfast and lunch menu of omelets, sandwiches, and salads that Humphrey Bogart himself might recognize. They are famous for the eggs Benedict and a full spirits menu, a la “Rick’s Cafe.”
Brunch | Dogs Welcome | Full Bar | Kid-friendly | Meal Under $20 | Outdoor Seating
1335 Fourth St, 415.492.1530
McInnis Park Golf Club Restaurant
Grab a meal prepared by chef Chris Harman before or after hitting the driving range (or even without picking up a club). Outdoor seating is popular, as is the full bar, with a selection of premium Scotches, small-batch bourbons and more than 50 wines from California vineyards.
Full Bar | Kid-friendly | Meal Under $20 | Outdoor Seating | Private Party Room | Round Tables | Watch the Game
McInnis Park, 415.491.5990
Phyllis’ Giant Burgers
Flipping patties for the Bay Area for the past 30 years, Phyllis’ Giant Burgers has been inducted into the Pacific Sun’s Best of Marin Hall of Fame in 1997 and serves over 20 types of burgers.
2025 Best of the County for Burger.
Kid-friendly | Meal Under $20 | Outdoor Seating
2202 Fourth St, 415.456.0866
Chinese and Korean
For more Chinese food in Marin, check out our Best of the County picks here.
SAN Korean Cafe
Monica Chang’s sliver of a cafe at the southern end of San Rafael specializes in Korean food with dishes such as bibimbap, kimbap and bulgogi. The breakfast and lunch café also makes more familiar fare such as tofu protein rice bowls, banh mi sandwiches and breakfast burritos with eggs and kimchi fried rice.
Meals Under $20 | Grab ‘n Go | New Hot Spot
2165 Francisco Blvd E, Unit C, 415.306.7093
Emma’s Restaurant
Korean sweet and sour pork, black bean pork ribs and Singapore rice noodles are just a few of the Asian-influenced cross-over dishes from chef Wing Pak (Morimoto, Michael Mina). The restaurant, hidden in a strip mall where 580 and 101 merge, is California-style, flavorful with deep attention paid to ingredients and presentation. There’s beer, wine, and cocktails, like Bloody Monday, poured with sake instead of vodka. Don’t miss the Westlake Beef Soup, a rarity outside of San Francisco.
2025 Best of the County for Chinese.
Meal Under $20 | New Hot Spot | Worth the Hype
817 Francisco Blvd W, 415.492.1638
Ping’s Chinese Cuisine
Ping’s Chinese Restaurant serves authentic Chinese cuisine made with fresh ingredients. The menu features traditional dishes, including stir-fries and soups, available for dine-in, takeout, and family gatherings.
2025 Best of the County for Chinese.
Good for Kids | Good for Groups | Outdoor Seating | Dogs Allowed
248 Northgate Dr, 415.492.8808
Yet Wah
Named for the founder’s wife (“Yet” refers to the moon, “Wah” to brightness), this beloved downtown mainstay has a traditional Chinese menu and daily dim sum. Live music is sometimes on offer in the Kung Fu Lounge and a gluten-free menu is available.
2025 Best of the County for Chinese.
Date Spot | Kid-friendly | Meal Under $20
1238 Fourth St, 415.460.9883
Yu Shang Mandarin Cuisine and Sushi Bar
Marin families flock to Yu Shang for its family-style service and the Japanese and Chinese-American-inclusive menu. That means platters of Mongolian beef and Moo Goo Gai Pan are right at home next to plates of salmon teriyaki and pork tonkatsu.
2025 Best of the County for Chinese.
Date Spot | Kid-friendly
180 Bellam Blvd, 415.457.9199
Coffee/Coffee Shop
For more Coffee Shops in Marin, check out our Best of the County picks here.
Fox + Kit
A unique coffee shop catering to both children and parents, the beautiful interior and sophisticated atmosphere provide an interactive play space for kids and exceptional coffee and treats for adults.
2025 Best of the County for Coffee/Coffee Shop.
Kid-friendly | Grab ‘n Go | Outdoor Seating
1031 C St, 415.991.5061
Peet’s San Rafael
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.
2025 Best of the County for Coffee/Coffee Shop.
Dogs Allowed | Good for Working | Outdoor Seating
402 Third St, 415.306.0261
Pink Owl Coffee
Choose from hand-selected teas and coffees, light meals, baked goods (including mochi doughnuts from local @thirdculturebakery). Feeling experimental? Try one of their specialty lattes or a coffee flight. A portion of their annual revenue goes to breast cancer research and supporting women, so you know your money is not only going to a worthy local business but also a good cause.
2025 Best of the County for Coffee/Coffee Shop.
Grab ‘n Go | Meal Under $20 | Kid-friendly
1100 Fourth St, 415.578.2558
Red Whale Coffee
Known for its cult-like following, this coffee shop located in San Rafael is geared toward to-go orders, but also has a retail nook (for swag and make-at-home coffee goodies) and a lounge in the back equipped with vintage arcade games. Started back in 2013 by 5th generation Californian Sean Boyd, Red Whale guarantees high quality coffee and flavor profiles that will keep you coming back — the Chocolate Cold Brew is a must. They are also a staple at the Sunday San Rafael Farmers Markets and have converted an antique car into a “Red Whale Coffee to the Rescue” mobile coffee shop.
2025 Best of the county for Coffee/Coffee Shop.
Grab ‘n Go | Worth the Hype
169 Paul Dr, 415.906.6277
Sana’a Coffee
After opening the first location in San Francisco in May, Bay Area businessman and Yemen native Sadeq Alaqel is set to open a café in downtown San Rafael, featuring authentic Yemeni coffees and Adani tea seasoned with cardamom, ginger and cinnamon. Lattes, cappuccinos and other coffee styles, as well as pastries and traditional Yemeni sweets, will also be available. “I love to share my motherland country coffee (sic) that originated in Yemen during the 14th century,” Alaquel says.
1146 Fourth St, 415.932.6935
Grab ‘n Go | Tea | Coffee by the Pot
Ice Cream/Frozen Yogurt
For more Ice Cream/Frozen Yogurt in Marin, check out our Best of the County picks here.
Double Rainbow Cafe
Beyond its inviting diner ambiance and colorful, fun decorations, this place does ice cream right. From sundaes, milkshakes, classic scoops, and more, Double Rainbow Cafe is a must-visit in San Rafael.
2025 Best of the County for Ice Cream/Frozen Yogurt.
Kid-friendly | Grab ‘n Go | Outdoor Seating
860 Fourth St, 415.457.0803
Silbermann’s
Established in 1966, Silbermann’s knows how to scoop some cream. In 1981, the owner at the time, Ilse, had the idea of making cakes with ice cream, which ended up winning California’s “Idea of the Year.” Their extensive list of flavors, quality cakes, and friendly customer service are a testament to their long-standing popularity.
2025 Best of the County for Ice Cream/Frozen Yogurt.
Kid-friendly | Grab ‘n Go
196 Northgate One, 415.479.1657
Indian
For more Indian food in Marin, check out our Best of the County picks here.
Everest Curry and Momo House
San Rafael’s Fourth Street welcomed a new spot for authentic Indian and Nepalese Cuisine in January. Everest Curry and Momo House crafts dishes with freshly ground spices, including delicious momos, a rich steamed dumpling stuffed with meat, vegetables or other filling.
2025 Best of the County for Indian.
1444 Fourth Street, 415.455.0444
Grab ‘n Go | New Hot Spot
Himalayan Kitchen
Owned and run by the Sherpa family, originally from the Himalayan region in Nepal, Himalayan kitchen serves up authentic Indian and Nepalese food made from scratch. They believe real food is better for you, your health, and the planet.
2025 Best of the County for Indian.
Date Spot | Dogs Welcome | Kid-friendly | Meal Under $20 | Outdoor Seating
227 Third St, 415.526.3161
Lotus Cuisine of India Restaurant
Take comfort in award-winning Indian cuisine from a long-running, family-run, certified green business with an energy-efficient kitchen and eco-friendly appliances. There is an abundance of organic vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options, not to mention their famous all-you-can-eat, every day lunch buffet, wine and beer. A pet-friendly patio fronts Fourth while the family’s adjacent Lotus Market Indian Grocery on Fifth means free parking in the back.
2025 Best of the County Readers’ Choice for Indian.
Date Spot | Dogs Welcome | Grab ‘n Go | Kid-friendly | Meal Under $20 | Outdoor Seating
812 Fourth St, 415.456.5808
Taj of Marin
Both North and South Indian cuisine are offered here, with plentiful vegetarian options and unsweetened chai. The crowds come for the well-priced lunch specials or stop by at dinner for their well-regarded goat curry, spinach, lentils and tandoori.
Kid-friendly | Meal Under $20
909 Fourth St, 415.459.9555
Italian
For more Italian food in Marin, check out our Best of the County picks here.
Cafe Arrivederci
Cafe Arrivederci has been located in the heart of San Rafael for the past 27 years. Chef Tito is proud to serve fresh homemade pastas and dishes from all over Italy. Visit the expansive dining room, full bar, garden patio and private rooms for parties and events.
Full Bar | Date Spot | Outdoor Seating
1 G St, 415.453.6427
Café Villa
Chef de cuisine David Sypnicki changes the menu of burgers, sandwiches and small plates at the Italian trattoria adjacent to Villa Inn to meet the season. Pappardelle with braised beef and kale and local rock cod with spicy tomato-fennel broth are signatures and the short-rib and brisket burger is not to be missed — try one with a house made limoncello or a Nonna Joe with whiskey, sweet vermouth and Campar
Happy Hour | Full Bar | Kid-friendly | Meal Under $20
1602 Lincoln Ave, 415.459.6161
Gaspare’s
Carved Moroccan-style plasterworks grace the foyer at this boisterous, two-room spot. The room to the left hosts a busy bar where an Italian Cosmo cocktail is topped with Prosecco but anyplace is fine to try homemade gnocchi, veal scaloppini or a Sicilian style pizza with eggplant and feta.
Date Spot | Full Bar | Kid-friendly | Meal Under $20
200 Merrydale Road, 415.472.7101
Il Davide
The large selection of innovative and classic Tuscan dishes and house-made pasta has kept locals coming back for years. Ingredients are organic and locally sourced where possible, and there’s a vast selection of both Italian and California wines by the glass. Heated outdoor dining and curbside pickup are available and a private party dining room accommodates up to 45.
2025 Best of the County for Italian and Fine Dining.
Date Spot | Dogs Welcome | Full Bar | Kid-friendly | Meal Under $20 | Outdoor Seating | Private Party Room | Round Tables
901 A St, 415.454.8080
La Toscana Ristorante & Bar
Family owned and operated since 1985, La Toscana completed an extensive interior and exterior renovation, transforming an already popular San Rafael gathering spot into a place for any occasion. The menu features daily specials and classics like gnocchi and carbonara and an ample selection of wine.
2025 Best of the County for Italian.
Date Spot | Outdoor Seating | Private Party Room | Worth the Hype
3751 Redwood Hwy, 415.492.9100
Latin American
For more Latin American food in Marin, check out our Best of the County picks here.
Lou’s Takeaway
Bicyclists returning from a ride along San Rafael’s Lucas Valley Road are in on the not-so-secret eats from Anthony (Lou) Rizzi’s petite restaurant. Though the menu changes frequently, look for favorites like chilled chicken noodles with roasted peanuts and pickled long beans, spicy honey-glazed fried chicken, and pork belly with black vinegar caramel sauce. Enjoy everything outside on the deck or to go–there is no indoor seating.
Dogs Welcome | Kid-friendly | Meal Under $20 | Outdoor Seating
621A Del Ganado Rd, 415.226.7994
Sol Food
Fast becoming a Marin legend, Sol Food whips up traditional Puerto Rican dishes with fresh ingredients, just like the ones owner Sol Hernandez grew up eating. All day favorites include the bistec sandwich, mofongo and other fried plantain dishes, but anything tastes good with a dash of “pique” their signature hot peppersauce, also for sale by the bottle (as is the lemon-garlic salad dressing). They also have a special menu from “Victor’s Crispy Tacos.”
2025 Best of the County Readers’ Choice for Latin American.
Dogs Welcome | Kid-friendly | Meal Under $20 | Outdoor Seating | Worth the Hype
901 Lincoln Ave, 415.451.4765
Mexican
For more Mexican food in Marin, check out our Best of the County picks here.
Betzy’s Tacos
Photo courtesy of Betzy’s Tacos.
In a tiny store front, Betzy Becker turns out rave-worthy quesabirria and street style carne asada and al pastor tacos on house made corn tortillas. Sopes and picaditas — blue corn tortilla topped with fried beans and queso fresco — are part of a Mexican-Central American menu rounded out with aguas frescas and a tamarind “cocktail.” There’s even a pizzabirria, a large flour tortilla with three layers of cheese, meat and cilantro onions and La Mamasota (a big pupusa) which serve eight.
Meal Under $20 | Kid-Friendly | Outdoor Seating
1815 Fourth St, Suite 6, 415.720.2306
Casa Mañana
Owner Margarita Almenderes has been running the original Casa Mañana since 1979 in an off-the-beaten track San Rafael locale that locals adored for its ample patio seating and “home made everything” approach. Her newer spot downtown draws new audiences for the all-day breakfast menu (those huevos Cubanos aren’t going to eat themselves), burritos and mole enchiladas.
Grab ‘n Go | Kid-friendly | Meal Under $20 | Outdoor Seating | Watch the Game
711 D St, 415.456.7345
Celia’s
Fresh home-style Mexican food served with fresh salsa and guacamole made daily, Celia’s prides itself in their quality, natural, health-conscious cuisine.
2025 Best of the County for Mexican.
Kid-friendly | Meal Under $20 | Outdoor Seating | Full Bar | Happy Hour
1 Vivian St, 415.456.8190
Los Moles
Centrally located on Lincoln Avenue, Los Moles offers traditional pueblo Mexican cuisine, with — you guessed it — a variety of different moles to enhance your dish. The menu includes enmoladas, tacos, pollo al horno, carne asada, flan and more. Stop in on Taco Tuesday when the special is quesabirria tacos or for the special Sunday buffet brunch with fresh cafe de la olla served from a clay urn and live music on the streetside patio.
Brunch | Date Spot | Dogs Welcome | Happy Hour | Kid-friendly | Meal Under $20 | Outdoor Seating
912 Lincoln Ave, 415.453.5850
Picante
Quality, quick and classic. Picante is a go-to neighborhood stop for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
2025 Best of the County for Mexican.
Kid-friendly | Meal Under $20 | Brunch
340 Bellam Blvd, 415.485.6050
Sabor a Mexico
Fresh margaritas know no border, while salmon fish tacos are topped with chopped onion and cilantro a la Distrito Federal and a pambazo, a sandwich stuffed with chorizo and potato, is done up with a Jaliscan style sauce. A six table patio offers outdoor seating.
2025 Best of the County for Mexican.
Date Spot | Dogs Welcome | Full Bar | Kid-friendly | Meal Under $20 | Outdoor Seating | Watch the Game
1559 Fourth St, 415.306.9404
Middle Eastern/Mediterranean
For more Middle Eastern/Mediterranean food in Marin, check out our Best of the County picks here.
Julie’s Hummus Bar
Julie and Elias started Julie’s Hummus Bar & Grill from their love of healthy, Mediterranean cuisine and the joy of bringing friends and family together. From salads, platters, hummus, falafel and more, they have all the Mediterranean dishes you’re looking for.
2025 Best of the County for Middle Eastern/Mediterranean.
Outdoor Seating | Dogs Welcome | Kid-friendly | Happy Hour | Watch the Game | Meal Under $20
1026 Court St, 415.755.4818
Pizza
For more Pizza in Marin, check out our Best of the County picks here.
Amici’s East Coast Pizzeria
A wide array of thin-crust pizzas pulled from a traditional brick oven, freshly made pastas (don’t miss the four cheese lasagna), and salads are the ticket here, along with flame-roasted lemon chicken wings (mild, spicy, or atomic). Dairy-free cheese and gluten-free crusts are available.
Grab ‘n Go | Kid-friendly | Meal Under $20
1242 Fourth St, 415.455.9777
Lo Coco’s Authentic Italian Pizzeria
This local favorite was founded by the Sicilian Lo Coco brothers, who took pride in the authentic Italian flavors in their recipes. Their Neapolitan-style pies are simple but hearty. Popular menu items include their mushroom pizza, roasted eggplant pizza, a zucchini and garlic pizza, baby clam, oregano and garlic pizza, and their most notable artichoke heart pizza. Sometimes pizza only needs a couple of ingredients to taste fantastic. And if you thought their toppings were great, wait until you hear about Lo Coco’s trademark crust. Unbelievably fluffy, doughy and thick, it’ll send you to cloud nine on the first bite. Bring your family and friends, share a few pies, and watch the chefs throw the discs of dough in the air in true pizza-making fashion if you happen to choose a counter seat. Talk about a dinner and a show!
2025 Best of the County for Pizza.
Kid-friendly
631 Del Ganado Road, 415.472.3323
Mulberry Street Pizzeria
With its longstanding presence in Marin, Mulberry Pizzeria’s menu has grown to include a variety of both unique and traditional pizzas, salads, soup and more. Some favorites include a Three Beer Pizza and their Cream of Tomato with a Hint of Curry soup. It was first opened in 1986 and was inspired by Mulberry Street in New York’s Little Italy, and current owners Bill and Chrisoula Capetanos have maintained the pizzeria’s legacy.
2025 Best of the County for Pizza.
Kid-friendly | Meal Under $20 | Outdoor Seating
101 Smith Ranch Rd, 415.472.7272
Oilver’s Pizzeria
A speakeasy-style pizzeria located above Vin Antico on Fourth Street, Oliver’s serves hand-mixed, wood-fired Neapolitan pizzas in a cozy and inviting setting.
2025 Best of the County for Pizza.
Offers Takeout
883 Commercial Pl, 415.472.7272
RangeCafe
The cuisine from chef John Evans is local, seasonal, made with naturally raised ingredients and served in a casual, comfortable and refined setting, with floor-to-ceiling windows, interior and expansive outdoor seating overlooking the grand Peacock Gap lawns. An inviting cafe at lunch with ice-cold lemonade and refreshing chardonnays makes a great dinner spot once the sun sets.
Date Spot | Dogs Welcome | Full Bar | Happy Hour | Kid-friendly | Outdoor Seating | Private Party Room | Watch the Game
333 Biscayne Dr, 415.454.6450
Red Boy Pizza San Rafael
Home of the famous sourdough crust since 1969 – is a family-owned, local favorite serving up top-quality food made with the finest ingredients. More than just pizza, they offer a great selection of pastas, soups, salads, and more.
2025 Best of the County for Pizza.
Good for Kids | Dogs Allowed | Bike Parking | Free Wifi | Bike Parking
2042B Fourth St, 415.258.0420
Ramen
For more Ramen in Marin, check out our Best of the County picks here.
Chonmage Japanese Restaurant
Yuthana (Oy San) Sitiprawet runs this downtown ramen joint with his wife, Manee Jenkins, turning out Japanese-style ramen with local flair. Housemade, walnut-based miso amplifies the spicy miso ramen and garlic ramen turns heads, but the curry ramen continues to inspire a vocal following. The blended tonkatsu and chicken broths are infused with curry and topped with karaage (fried chicken) and french fries, making it the ultimate multi-culti mashup.
2025 Best of the County for Ramen.
Dogs Welcome | Kid-friendly | Meal Under $20 | Outdoor Seating
1020 Court St, 415.419.5919
Menya Shono
Noodles from ramen master Tomoharu Shono who has multiple restaurants in Tokyo and San Francisco are made in-house, the flour ground on a Japanese stonemill in the kitchen. Designed exclusively for the downtown San Rafael location, toripaitan uses chicken broth instead of the traditional pork and is designed for every day eating but traditionalists can still get Shono’s Marin-influenced version of shoyu and matcha ramen, too. A small patio is shielded from the marine layer’s breezes.
2025 Best of the County for Ramen.
Date Spot | Dogs Welcome | Kid-friendly | Meal Under $20 | Outdoor Seating
908 Fourth St, 415.448.5277
Uchiwa Ramen
Marin’s OG ramen shop in downtown San Rafael has found a spot in the hearts of ramen lovers for its rich broths, fresh noodles and assortment of small plates. While the tonkatsu and gluten-free options remain popular, newer items such as pan-fried ramen, vegan miso ramen and rice dishes meet a variety of needs. A petite patio offers outdoor seating.
2025 Best of the County Readers’ Choice for Ramen.
Date Spot | Dogs Welcome | Kid-friendly | Meal Under $20 | Outdoor Seating
821 B St, 415.524.2727
Sandwiches
For more Sandwiches in Marin, check out our Best of the County picks here.
Andy’s Local Market, Loch Lomad and Sun Valley
Serving quality eats, service, and catering to Marin County Andy’s Local Market puts the community first. Stop by for one of their famous sandwiches or build your own from a large selection of ingredients.
2025 Best of the County for Sandwiches.
Grab ‘n Go | Meal Under $20 | Kid-friendly
75 Loch Lomond Dr, 415.456.5730 (Loch Lomad)
2202 Fifth Ave, 415.456.5731 (Sun Valley)
Belly Deli
Belly Deli serves up gourmet sandwiches and international cuisines prepared daily with ingredients sourced from local farmers and suppliers that support the community. Choose from the large sandwich selection including classic combinations, veggie options, make-your-own, and the signature Steve’s Italian Sandwiches ( a homage to the previous owner Steve Franchetti). As a deep-rooted resident of San Rafael, Belli Deli takes pride in inspiring the community with quality, passion, and happiness with every meal.
2025 Best of the County for Sandwiches.
Grab ‘n Go | Meal Under $20 | Kid-friendly
1304 Second St, San Rafael, 415.785.7487
Big Rock Deli
One part deli, one part Mexican restaurant and one part roadside joint, an all-day neighborhood favorite in Lucas Valley serves up big plates of St. Louis cut ribs with pinto beans and cole slaw, chorizo breakfast burritos and Philly cheesesteak sandwiches in equal measure. The covered patio wraps around the building and a small stage often hosts bands on weekends and holidays.
Dogs Welcome | Grab ‘n Go | Kid-friendly | Meal Under $20 | Outdoor Seating
1500 Lucas Valley Rd, 415.491.0547
Michael’s Sourdough
The bread is made on site and is said to have magical qualities. 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.
2025 Best of the County Readers’ Choice
Grab ‘n Go | Kid-friendly | Meal Under $20
999 Andersen Dr, Ste. 165, 415.485.0964
Perry’s Deli
Taking over a 100 year-old business is no small feat, but Kaity Galvez is up to the task, recently completing a remodel of the building — enclosing the patio and adding bi-fold doors for an indoor-outdoor feel — among other changes. Galvez plans a menu of mainstays and seasonal sandwiches like Perry’s Ranch with chicken, bacon, Jack cheese, and ranch dressing and a Fig Apple Brie with caramelized onions. A brunch menu and happy hour with charcuterie boards is in the works for spring.
Grab ‘n Go | Outdoor Seating
909 Lincoln Ave, San Rafael 415.785.3991
Scotty’s Market
A family-owned market offering fresh produce, deli items, and takeout meals. Scotty’s Market is a community staple known for friendly service and quality ingredients.
2025 Best of the County for Sandwiches.
Good for Kids | Good for Lunch | Full Bar | Outdoor Seating
901 B St, 415.479.2363
Vivalon’s Jackson Cafe
Vivalon’s Jackson Café menu changes weekly to reflect seasonal offerings, including daily meat and veggie entrée options, along with fresh salads, daily soups, sandwich choices, and desserts. The Jackson Café is located near the San Rafael Transit Center and is open for lunch Monday – Friday, 11:30 am-1:30 pm. Entrée options are $8 for Vivalon members and $12 for non-members.
Date Spot | Meal Under $20 | Round Tables
930 Tamalpais Ave, 415.456.9062
Seafood
For more Seafood in Marin, check out our Best of the County picks here.
The Kitchen Table
Chef Alexander Alioto adheres to the Italian cooking mantra of fresh, seasonal, approachable food at his West End restaurant, creating dishes with layers of flavor such as raviolo uovo with truffle butter and pappardelle with oxtail and espelette pepper. This may be the only restaurant in Marin serving sweetbreads — do give them a try.
Date Spot | Dogs Welcome | Outdoor Seating
1574 Fourth St, 415.521.5568
Le Comptoir
In the heart of San Rafael, the bistro, complete with bright red chairs and a small adjoining grocery, serves up traditional French favorites like beef cheeks bourguignon and onion soup gratinée in a chic and cozy setting.
Date Spot | Grab ‘n Go | Outdoor Seating | Private Party Room
1301 Fourth St, 415.454.5454
Steakhouse
For more Steakhouse in Marin, check out our Best of the County picks here.
Le Chalet Basque
This family-style place features dishes inspired by the Basque regions of France and Spain, like frog legs in a garlic butter and lemon sauce, a veal calf liver sauté and sweetbreads with port wine sauce and mushrooms. On a warm night, enjoy alfresco dining on the patio.
Date Spot | Dogs Welcome | Full Bar | Outdoor Seating | Private Party Room | Round Tables | Worth the Hype
405 North San Pedro Rd, 415.479.1070
San Rafael Joe’s
A Marin institution famous for sophisticated yet casual Italian fare since 1947. The dining room, with a friendly atmosphere and seating for 240, is great for large parties, and the roast sirloin of beef and Fettuccine Joe’s are sure to please.
2025 Best of the County for Steakhouse.
Brunch | Date Spot | Full Bar | Grab ‘n Go | Happy Hour | Kid-friendly | Outdoor Seating | Round Tables | Worth the Hype
931 Fourth St, 415.456.2425
Sushi
For more Sushi in Marin, check out our Best of the County picks here.
Kamikaze
Montecito Plaza’s resident sushi restaurant, Kamikaze, has the basics for those looking for Japanese cuisine and a traditional sushi menu.
2025 Best of the County for Sushi.
Good for Kids | Good for Groups | Outdoor Seating
223 Third St, 415.457.6776
MaruJun
MaruJun serves traditional Japanese nigiri and small plates inspired by Chef Jun-san’s roots in northern Kyushu. With a focus on fresh, organic ingredients, it offers an authentic dining experience.
2025 Best of the County for Sushi.
2224 Fourth St, 415.785.3739
Shiro Kuma
Despite its location in San Rafael’s West End, Shiro Kuma, which means “polar bear,” takes its inspiration from chef Yasuo Shigeyoshi’s childhood in a small rural town in the south of Japan and offers traditional-style sushi and wagyu A5 and Kobe beef to cook over ishiyaki grilling stones. Popular weekly specials include hamachi jalapeño and the omakase (chef’s choice) dinner.
2025 Best of the County for Sushi.
Date Spot | Worth the Hype
1518 Fourth St, 415.295.7464
Tea, Juice & Smoothies
oddcha
Founded by a group of friends with a passion for boba tea, oddcha sells all things bubble tea at their non-traditional tea station. An extensive menu includes lattes, matcha, fresh fruit smoothies and milk teas. Situated in a Victorian house on Irwin St., their handy pickup window is just past an ornate arch to the “French Quarter” courtyard. And with delivery, pickup and online ordering options, oddcha offers convenience while providing high-quality boba with fresh ingredients.
Grab ‘n Go | Kid-friendly
905 F Irwin St, 415.720.1195
Thai / Southeast Asian
For more Thai in Marin, check out our Best of the County picks here.
Bay Thai Cuisine
Open seven days a week for lunch and dinner, Bay Thai Cuisine is a go-to for authentic Thai lovers. Whether getting take-out or dining in, make sure to bring cash as they don’t take card.
2025 Best of the County for Thai.
Kid-friendly | Meal Under $20 | Outdoor Seating
809 Fourth St, 415.458.8845
Laos Kitchen
A sit-down restaurant in downtown San Rafael blends owner Manivone Vongsouthi’s Thai/Lao heritage in dishes of nam kao todd with homemade Lao sausage and plates of papaya salad studded with Thai green eggplant. Large plates of kap piet sem and kao prik sem feature house made noodles and Vongsouthi makes all the curry pastes in house, too, and garlic lovers will swoon over plates of garlic fish. There’s even Lao beer.
2025 Best of the County for Thai.
Meal Under $20 | New Hot Spot | Kid-Friendly
884 Fourth St, 415.456.4490
My Thai
With over 40 years of Thai Food Making experience, My Thai brings the fresh and flavorful tastes of Thailand to Mill Valley, San Rafael, and Fairfax.
2025 Best of the County for Thai.
Kid-friendly | Outdoor Seating
1230 Fourth St, 415.456.4455
Pho Viet Harbor
Of course you come for the namesake bowl of hearty soup with clear broth, beef, noodles and vegetables at this Best of the County winner. But the family-style favorite tucked behind a carpet store on an industrial stretch of Francisco Boulevard beckons with beautiful plates of pork chops with broken steamed rice and fried eggs as well as the fresh spring and imperial rolls.
Date Spot | Kid-friendly | Meal Under $20
555 E. Francisco Blvd, Ste. 22, 415.455.8063
Royal Thai Restaurant
Royal Thai focuses on quality, fresh, and delectable food. Using fresh veggies from local markets, their large variety of vegetarian options are popular choices for everyone.
2025 Best of the County for Thai.
Kid-friendly | Date Spot
610 Third St, 415.485.1074
Thai Smile
Thai Smile brings a small slice of Thailand to San Rafael with its traditional style of cooking and Thai decor. Call to dine in for lunch, dinner, or take out and bring the tastes of Thailand home.
2025 Best of the County for Thai.
Kid-friendly | Outdoor Seating | Meal Under $20
534 Fourth St, 415.454.2626
TuTu Lounge
TuTu Lounge, located on Fourth Street in the former Green Chile Kitchen & Bogie’s Too location, serves Pacific Rim cuisine — a fusion of Thai flavors in a vibrant, eclectic setting. Dishes include: dim sum, laksa, loco moco and fried chicken Benedicts. The business also offers catering and private party reservations, so you can elevate any occasion with ube lattes and tom yum prawn linguine.
Brunch | Private Party Room
1335 Fourth St, 415.492.1530
VN Noodle & Grill
Located in Montecito Plaza, the restaurant has a robust menu of standard Vietnamese fare, including a wide selection of rice plates, pho, and of course, iced coffee.
Date Spot | Kid-friendly | Meal Under $20 | Outdoor Seating
421 Third St, 415.306.8299
Vegetarian and Vegan
For more Vegan and Vegetarian food in Marin, check out our Best of the County picks here.
Cafe Del Soul
Meet the Team
Healthy options become addictive at this eatery that now has locations in both Tam Junction and San Rafael. Once you stop in for the deliciously fresh quinoa wrap, you’ll want to return to try the chipotle rice bowl. A casual lunch spot and great for takeout, Cafe del Soul also serves smoothies and pressed juices.
2025 Best of the County for Vegetarian/Vegan.
Grab ‘n Go | Kid-friendly | Meal Under $20
1408 Fourth St, 415.457.5400
Humbowl
Now featuring a second location in San Rafael, Humbowl offers fresh, on-the-go bowls perfect for a healthy lunch. There are a few flavor profile options like Thai curry or breakfast, and all of them feature a slew of mix-ins and tasty sauces.
Grab ‘n Go | Meal Under $20
1016 Court St, 415.795.8922
