In the heart of Marin County, food isn’t merely sustenance—it’s a heartfelt expression of the region’s land, sea and community.
The diverse culinary landscape serves as a delicious testament to the county’s commitment to sustainability, quality and culinary innovation. Every bite, every sip is an experience that not only pleases the palate but also connects one to the region’s ethos.
Marin County is in the midst of reasserting its vibrant food and drink culture, which thrives on local produce, artisanal dairy traditions and a dedication to sustainability. Simply put, Marin County is a culinary dreamscape where farm-to-table isn’t merely a trendy tagline, but a deeply held ethos.
Eateries such as Sir and Star in Olema and Farmshop in Larkspur are renowned for innovative dishes that pay homage to every season’s unique bounty. In addition, Marin County farmers’ markets act as a testament to the local commitment towards fresh, organic produce, fostering a strong bond between the farmer and the diner.
A cornerstone of Marin’s food scene is its rich dairy heritage, particularly its artisanal cheese production. Marin French Cheese Company, long-located in the nether space between Marin and Petaluma’s shared countryside, proudly creates award-winning cheeses, each with its distinct character and flavor profile. A visit to these creameries often includes a scenic tour, allowing guests to experience firsthand the process from pasture to plate.
Marin County’s coastal position also contributes significantly to its culinary narrative. The local seafood scene is teeming with fresh-off-the-boat fare. At Fish in Sausalito, sustainably caught seafood is the star, while at Nick’s Cove in Tomales Bay, patrons savor mouthwatering steamed mussels and barbecued Tomales Bay oysters. Not to be missed is Hog Island Oyster Co., whose farming practices set industry standards for sustainability, while offering visitors a memorable dining al fresco experience in Marshall and at the Marin Country Mart in Larkspur (not to mention locations in San Francisco and now in Napa).
A relative new kid on the block—Mill Valley’s Coho—boasts a signature Coho Salmon Donburi that inspired our editor to opine that Coho is “what happens when ‘land meets sea’; they fall in love and have a lovechild that celebrates the gustatory bounty of coastal California.”
In addition to its food, Marin County’s libations are worthy of acclaim. Despite being in the shadow of its world-famous wine neighbors, Sonoma and Napa, Marin holds its own with wineries like Point Reyes Vineyard Inn & Winery, which is family-owned and operated on scenic Highway 1, overlooking the beautiful Point Reyes National Seashore. The inn and winery boasts a variety of vintages, including a pair of award-winning syrahs, an estate pinot noir and a merlot. As they entreat visitors, “Come for the wine; stay for breakfast.”
Likewise, Pond Farm Brewing Co. in San Rafael serves up innovative craft beers that add another dimension to Marin’s gastronomic tableau. Among the local favorites is the San Rafael Lager, which craft brew lovers will be happy to know is available in a 1-liter stein.
Beer isn’t the only craft offering with a lock on fermentation, however. Wild West Ferments offers an array of sauerkraut, el curtido, kimchi and Moroccan beets that are great on their own but also serve as a beautiful garnish, boasting a garnet color and tangy, earthy flavor.
Whether one is a seasoned foodie or a casual diner, Marin County has a bounty of food and drink experiences to explore. From cheese tastings in bucolic creameries, feasting on fresh oysters overlooking the bay, savoring farm-to-table dining in restaurants, to raising a glass of locally crafted wine or beer, one can experience the unique connection to the land, sea and community, reflected in every plate served and every glass poured.
