It’s the most important meal of the day! Whether you’re in the mood for a quick cup o’ joe and a croissant or a longer sit-down meal, Marin has it all. But when there’s a cute coffee shop on every corner, you might need to narrow it down, and that’s where our shortlist of the best breakfast options can help you out.
Feature Photo: @Salt-Pepper on Facebook
Southern Marin
Mill Valley - Sausalito - Tiburon
Marin Coffee Roasters
Coffee &Tea
Dogs Welcome | Outdoor Seating | Kid-friendly | Meal under $20
With three locations across Marin and diligently sourced coffee beans, it’s easy to see why Marin Coffee Roasters is the go-to coffee shop for so many. Stop by for breakfast and have a cup of coffee while you tuck into their veggie omelet with crispy pan-fried potatoes or pesto poached eggs on toast. For something sweet, try their moist blueberry crumb muffin or their rich maple iced scone for some fall flavors. They do not accept reservations.
466 Ignacio Blvd, Ignacio, 415.884.9400
American
Brunch | Dogs Welcome | Kid-friendly | Meal Under $20 | Outdoor Seating
This brunch stop brings some gourmet to your morning with options like Dungeness crab hash, cornflake French toast, eggs Florentine and bottomless mimosas. Lunch choices like paninis and burgers are also available for enjoying on the open air patio.
31 Sunnyside Ave #1, Mill Valley, 415.326.5159
French
Outdoor Seating | Kid-friendly | Dogs Welcome | Brunch
French fare and pastries, including an inimitable quiche and a proper Croque Madame are just part of the appeal. The umbrella-shaded patio is a morning hot spot when the weather cooperates. They only accept reservations for dinner.
250 E Blithedale, Mill Valley, 415.888.3695
American & Mexican
Brunch | Kid-friendly | Meal under $20
Oozing egg yolk and melted cheddar, an egg-a-muffin is a breakfast sandwich tilts Mexican with cochinita pork instead of sausage while a Shoreline sandwich leans into the traditional flavors of pork belly bacon. They do not accept reservations.
221 Shoreline Hwy, Mill Valley, 415.388.9085
American
Brunch | Kid-friendly | Meal under $20
Calling this homey café “Southern-inspired” captures the chicken-fried steak and eggs vibe as well as the from scratch biscuits. But that would leave out the Smokin’ Philly Omelette and breakfast nachos with bacon or chorizo so let’s just agree on “all-American.” They do not accept reservations.
1 Gate 6 Rd, Sausalito, 415.331.2313
American
Brunch | Dogs Welcome | Meal Under $20 | Outdoor Seating | Worth the Hype
In addition to the deep-fried French toast, there’s one thing regulars will never let a newcomer walk away without trying at this no-frills café: Millionaire’s Bacon. Thick-cut bacon finds a new level when it’s baked for four hours with brown sugar, cayenne, chili flakes and black pepper. We’d call the sidewalk seating “à la Parisienne,” but that seems too fancy for a café that offers bottomless mimosas. They do not accept reservations.
1917 Bridgeway, Sausalito, 415.332.4575
American
Brunch | Happy Hour | Kid-friendly | Meal Under $20 | Outdoor Seating
Breakfast is served all day and while most of the Danish dishes the restaurant is known for are only on the lunch menu, you can still get the Danish meatballs as a side order at breakfast. Omelettes are a signature, and the Mickey Mouse-shaped pancakes are a hit with kids of all ages. They do not accept reservations.
1311 Bridgeway, Sausalito, 415.331.3034
American
Brunch | Dogs Welcome | Full Bar | Kid-friendly | Outdoor Seating | Round Tables
We know its dessert, but an affogato espresso could stand-in for brunch with its topper of ice cream and whipped cream on the side. For something a little easier on the waistline, you can’t go wrong with a tofu scramble or spinach frittata.
38 Main St, Tiburon, 415.435.3594
Bakery
Grab ‘n Go | Kid-friendly
Established in the 1960s, Bob’s Donuts and Pastries has become a staple for donut lovers in San Francisco and the greater Bay Area, with their latest shop opened in Mill Valley. Famous for their apple fritters, giant donuts ( a must-see to believe), and quality baked goods, stop by for a sweet treat. They do not accept reservations.
252 Almonte Blvd, Mill Valley, 415.322.6278
Bakery
Grab ‘n Go | Kid-friendly | Meal Under $20 | Outdoor Seating
The brainchild of pastry chef Heather Hardcastle, this second location (the first location is in San Anselmo) in the Lumber Yard offers not only gluten-free baked goods but fancy toast, seasonal salads, coffee and takeout to be enjoyed at one of the shaded picnic tables. They do not accept reservations.
129 Miller Ave, Mill Valley, 415.384.8244
Bakery
Grab ‘n Go | Kid-friendly | Meal Under $20 | Outdoor Seating | Worth the Hype
Sourdough bread, baguettes and pain d’epis (a pull-apart bread) are baked in the built-in, wood-fired Alan Scott oven. The opening menu includes coffee and tea, a range of pastries — such as kouign amann, lemon meringue croissants and pain au chocolat — cookies and a snack board. Stop in at lunch for a tartine or sandwich on house-baked bread, or a salad with a glass of bubbly. They do not accept reservations.
17 Madrona St, Mill Valley, 415.915.9120
Bakery
Grab ‘n Go | Kid-friendly | Worth the Hype
Karen Fong’s seasonally-inspired kouign-amanns are filled with lemon curd, apple pie filling or Nutella. Or try the focaccia studded with seasonal vegetables. House made cinnamon buns are made of croissant dough and the sourdough baguettes with seeds and cranberries will tempt the incorruptible. Look for lavender scented scones with blueberries and lemon as the weather cools. They do not accept reservations.
17 E. Blithedale, Mill Valley, 415.885.9862
Bakery
Dogs Welcome | Grab ‘n Go | Kid-friendly | Meal Under $20
After a pop-up series, Stacey Waldspurger’s burgeoning cottage bakery business moved into a permanent space downtown with veggie-topped focaccia, frangipane tarts, blueberry cream muffins, chocolate cookies, cranberry-ginger scones and other Euro-American treats. A small coffee menu (hot and cold brew) complements the menu. They do not accept reservations.
31 Sunnyside, Mill Valley, 415.888.2090
Cafe
Dogs Welcome | Kid-friendly | Meal Under $20 | Outdoor Seating
The former railroad depot turned all-day café and bookstore reopened in late January at the heart of downtown Mill Valley. The kitchen, helmed by chef Mary Pult of Mill Valley, offers the same counter service model as before and a veg-forward menu that tilts towards the Mediterranean and points farther east with bespoke pastries from Sausalito’s Cibo Bakery. They do not accept reservations.
87 Throckmorton, Mill Valley, 415.888.3648
Cafe
Dogs Welcome | Kid-friendly | Meal Under $20 | Outdoor Seating
Mill Valley boasts two Equator Coffee locations. At Tam Junction’s Proof Lab location, look for bacon & cheddar, steak & egg and vegetarian breakfast burritos made in house. Downtown’s Depot Plaza location serves up avocado toast, breakfast sandwiches, and those famous gluten-free waffles. Both locations feature Johnny Doughnuts, Friday–Sunday and online ordering.They do not accept reservations.
244 Shoreline Hwy and 2 Miller Ave, Mill Valley, 415.383.4200
Cafe
Dogs welcome | Grab 'n Go | Outdoor Seating
In the heart of Mill Valley’s Tam Junction, you can find the crossroads of community and coffee at upside. Partnered with San Francisco coffee roasters Lady Falcon Coffee Club, upside brings delicious coffee while cultivating a gathering place for people and experiences. Sip a cappuccino while enjoying some of upside’s regular events like Doggy Days, one regular event where patrons are invited to bring their pups to the cafe. They do not accept reservations.
215 Shoreline Hwy, Mill Valley
Cafe
Dogs welcome | Grab 'n Go | Kid-friendly | Meal Under $20
This is a popular spot for organic and non-GMO cold-pressed juices, snacks and ready-to-eat meals, plenty of gluten-free, grain-free, and low-glycemic-index choices, and even raw desserts. Try the namesake salad or give the cashew milk with cinnamon and vanilla a shot to see what Urban Remedy is all about. Delivery and ordering only via their app here. They do not accept reservations.
15 E Blithedale Ave, Mill Valley, 415.383.5300
Bakery
Grab ‘n Go | Meal Under $20
Pastry chef Tera Ancona set up a pastry bar inside her family’s Sausalito waterfront restaurant during Covid and has now pivoted to large custom orders and wholesale accounts including; Book Passage, Crown and Crumpet in Ross, Equator Coffees, Golden Gate Market and The Depot, in Mill Valley. They do not accept reservations.
200 Gate 5, Sausalito, 415.331.5225
Cafe
Grab 'n Go | Kid-friendly | Outdoor Seating
Its waterfront location is a magnet for tourists who can enjoy an omelet with a view, but this may be one of the only places left in Marin that makes its own apple strudel and baklava.
571 Bridgeway, Sausalito, 415.331.9552
Cafe
Grab ‘n Go | Kid-friendly | Outdoor Seating | Dogs Welcome | Meal Under $20
Located next to the Sausalito firehouse, this aptly-named cafe is frequented by Marin firefighters and police officers just before the start of their shifts. Whether it’s a cup of coffee, one of their 11 local blends of tea or a specialty latte — honey lavender, anyone? — this is a cozy community spot to try. They do not accept reservations.
317 Johnson St, Sausalito, 415.729.9159
Cafe
Dogs Welcome | Grab ‘n Go | Kid-friendly | Meal Under $20 | Outdoor Seating
The coffee menu includes Equator’s iconic drinks like the shakerato (coffee shaken with cream) and rotating, seasonally-focused beverages. The farmers breakfast with two eggs, bacon, avocado and housemade hot sauce is insanely popular at breakfast, as are the pastries from Cibo Bakery, which pair beautifully with chai from San Rafael’s Silk Roads. Locally-sourced salads, sandwiches and paninis easily transition from breakfast to lunch. They do not accept reservations.
1201 Bridgeway, Sausalito, 415.521.5770
Cafe
Grab n’ Go | Kid-Friendly
A coffee bar and seating area are much the same after a 2023 refresh of the Sweet Things space into San Francisco’s Jane. A grab and go fridge with salads and drinks is new while some legacy pastries from Sweet Things — carrot cake, black tie cake, and all the cupcakes — share shelf space with mocha, Oreo and other Jane cakes as well as croissants, naturally leavened breads and gluten-free cookies. The homewares and hostess gift aspect of business remains. They do not accept reservations.
1 Blackfield Dr, Tiburon, 415.388.8583
Cafe
Dogs Welcome | Grab ‘n Go | Kid-friendly | Meal Under $20 | Outdoor Seating
This location of the beloved bakery offers the same menu as the other locations in Novato and Larkspur, as well as outdoor dining. Enjoy a wide array of fresh salads, sandwiches, and pastries on the boardwalk. They do not accept reservations.
1550 Tiburon Blvd, Tiburon, 415.797.6123
American
Brunch | Date Spot | Dogs Welcome | Full Bar | Happy Hour | Kid-friendly | Outdoor Seating | Private Party Room | Watch the Game
Food service at the Lodge at Tiburon is now in the hands of Luna Blu’sRenzo and Crystal Azzarello who took the reins in August for the Tiburon Tavern bar, restaurant and other on-site eating opportunities. Chef Babak Nasser is on board to handle the flow from breakfast and brunch through dinner. The same wide patio is back in service, too.
1651 Tiburon Blvd, Tiburon, 415.435.3133
Cafe
Brunch | Dogs Welcome | Grab ‘n Go | Kid-friendly | Meal Under $20 | Outdoor Seating
The well-lit corner cafe in downtown Tiburon is a go-to for bikers, city commuters, and locals. Diners will find Italian roast espresso drinks, freshly baked pastries, and eggs for breakfast and a selection of soups, salads and paninis for lunch. A market stacked with pantry items and coffee operates inside the café and outdoor dining is available. They do not accept reservations.
1 Main St, Tiburon, 415.435.8515
Seafood
Brunch | Date Spot | Dogs Welcome | Full Bar | Happy Hour | Kid-friendly | Meal Under $20 | Outdoor Seating | Watch the Game | Worth the Hype
Sam’s boathouse feel and boat tie-ups are part of its charm but most come for the spiffy white umbrellas and deck chairs on the expansive waterfront patio. All-day cocktails remain a fixture as does the signature cioppino, while offerings like crab toast, a roaming oyster cart, and a raw bar reflect the menu’s enduring seafood focus. They do not accept reservations.
27 Main St, Tiburon, 415.435.4527
Central Marin
Corte Madera – Fairfax – Greenbrae – Kentfield –Larkspur – Ross – San Anselmo – San Rafael
Creole
Kid-friendly | Outdoor Seating | Brunch | Meal under $20
Beignets and fluffy waffles topped with fried chicken (try it with the spicy syrup) are just the tip of the New Orleans-themed iceberg at a long-running café where a seat at the counter is the go-to move for regulars. A new fried avocado appetizer melds over the top NOLA with sensible California produce, and there’s a weekly special of two for one chicken & waffles on Wednesdays. They even adjusted their cash only policy and now accept Venmo, too. They do not accept reservations.
57 Broadway, Fairfax, 415.457.9866
Half Day Café
Californian
Kid-friendly | Outdoor Seating | Brunch | Dogs Welcome | Meal under $20
Breakfast at lunch is definitely a thing and you can have all the eggy goodness — coffee-Kahlua battered French toast or green eggs and ham — weekdays, just like you can on the weekends. They do not accept reservations.
848 College Ave, Kentfield, 415.459.0291
New American
Brunch | Date Spot | Meal under $20
Though inside is cozy on chilly days, the covered, enclosed back patio is a major draw for regulars who come for the Bicycle Coffee and homemade biscuits with sausage gravy. The menu changes with the seasons but house made gravlax draped over a celery root pancake is eternal.
25 Ward St, Larkspur, 415.891.8577
New American
Kid-friendly | Outdoor Seating | Brunch | Grab ‘n Go | Dogs Welcome | Meal under $20
Established in 1986, Comforts has a cozy sit-down cafe, serving breakfast, lunch and weekend brunch. Their large takeout section offers a wide selection of house-made bakery items, seasonal salads, soups, sandwiches and family meals for dinner at home. Besides the famous Chinese chicken salad, other winners are the stuffed pecan-crusted French toast, chicken Okasan (nicknamed “Crack Chicken” by fans), Korean BBQ flank steak and Wor Won Ton soup. Catering services are also available. They do not accept reservations.
335 San Anselmo Ave, San Anselmo, 415.454.9840
American
Brunch | Kid-friendly | Meal Under $20
Serving San Anselmo since 1960, Hilda’s is a go-to stop for breakfast, brunch, or casual coffee. Their diverse menu has all your favorites for the best way to start your day. They do not accept reservations.
639 San Anselmo Ave, San Anselmo, 415.457.9266
Bakery
Kid-friendly | Outdoor Seating | Brunch | Grab n' Go | Dogs Welcome | Meal under $20
A one-stop shop for everything from coffee and pastries to artisan bread, with a seasonal brunch menu. High-quality ingredients and a comfortable atmosphere make MH worth checking out. A “front porch” patio bustles during the morning hours. They do not accept reservations.
101 San Anselmo Ave, San Anselmo, 415.755.4575
Blend of American, Peruvian & Mexican
Brunch | Kid-friendly | Outdoor Seating | Dogs Welcome | Watch the Game
Craving anything brunch? Miracle Mile is sure to have it. Beyond serving freshly made benedicts, omelettes, pancakes, sandwiches, waffles, and more, they also offer the Bay Area’s largest gluten free menu for gluten free choices.
2130 4th St, San Rafael, 415.454.7700
Cafe
Grab ‘n Go | Kid-friendly | Meal Under $20
A Bay Area favorite, Philz started in 1978 out of a convenience store in the Mission District in San Francisco. Once perfecting his style, Phil opened his first shop in 2003, and now has shops all over the country. Serving up unique blends carefully crafted for each customer, stop by for a mint mojito (favorite of many), black cup of joe or mocha. They do not accept reservations.
403 Corte Madera Town Center, Corte Madera, 415.496.2024
Bakery
Outdoor seating | Brunch | Happy Hour | Dogs Welcome | Date Spot | Meal under $20
Stop in for a quintessential French breakfast of coffee and a croissant at an outpost of the original San Francisco wine bar. Stay to enjoy plates of Cal-French escargot with garlic butter, salad Nicoise with pickled egg or slow-baked steelhead with persillade and radishes at lunch and dinner and an extensive French wine list. A petite streetside patio features dining atop wine barrels. They do not accept reservations.
71 Broadway Blvd, Fairfax, 628.253.5161
American
Kid-friendly | Brunch | Meal under $20
Chef Tony Senehi’s all-day cafe in the heart of town is known for California-inspired dishes made from local, organic ingredients. Pear almond pancakes and eggs Benedict (ask for “the Brady” to get lox) are popular at breakfast, while a BBQ pulled pork sandwich is a hot seller at lunch. The cioppino is only available at dinner.
1900 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, Fairfax, 415.460.2160
Acai
Meal Under $20 | Brunch | Grab ‘n Go
After years of studying at College of Marin and working at a local KWIK SERV, new owner Wuilian (Willy) Reyes took over the Kentfield café, reopening it in January after a 10 month closure. Reyes kept the açai bowls, like the Carmen Miranda with cacao nibs and peanut butter, that the café was already known for and built out the menu to include sandwiches (avocado toast, lox bagel) and pastas. Boba and espresso drinks are coming soon. They do not accept reservations.
860 College Ave, Kentfield, 415.747.8668
Bakery
Meals under $20 | Outdoor Seating | Breakfast
In March, 2021, New York Times food writer Tejal Rao famously called California’s bagels better than New York’s. The article put Emily Winston’s Berkeley bagel shop on the map and she’s never looked back. The freshest shop in the burgeoning Bay Area sandwich chain landed in downtown Larkspur in November with all the lox and schmears. There’s even Sanka for the diehard Boomer New Yorkers among us. They do not accept reservations.
238 Magnolia Ave, Larkspur, 415.891.3327
Bakery
New Hot Spot | Outdoor Seating
Le Marais, renowned for its French pastries and baked goods, has expanded to a new location in Larkspur at the Marin Country Mart. “Buvette” refers to a cozy place to get a drink or two — a petit bar, if you will — and this establishment accordingly adds a wine bar component to its baked goods and crepe menu. Stop by for a Parisian afternoon with a glass of white alongside a savory galette Bretonne.
2201 Larkspur Landing Cir., Larkspur, 415.888.3695
Bakery
Dogs Welcome | Grab ‘n Go | Kid-friendly | Meal Under $20 | Outdoor Seating
The Marin-grown bakery is known and loved the world over: Pope Francis famously requested Rustic Bakery flatbread and crostini when he visited the U.S. in 2015. Organic bread, croissants and pastries baked fresh each morning and salads, sandwiches, and soups for lunch make Rustic a local staple at the Marin Country Mart or a second Larkspur location on the town’s west side. They do not accept reservations.
2017 Larkspur Landing Circle, Larkspur, 415.461.9900
Bakery
Date Spot | Grab ‘n Go | Kid-friendly
Renowned for its Northern Italian specialties and treats (don’t miss the house made sfogliatelle or the panettone Milanese), the Larkspur location is a favored spot for pizza or a morning espresso and chocolate bomboloni. They do not accept reservations.
464 Magnolia Ave, Larkspur, 415.924.7478
Acai
Dogs Welcome | Grab ‘n Go | Kid-friendly | Outdoor Seating
Come for the bowls — with real açai sourced from Belém, Brazil — and stay for the authentic Brazilian bites, blended juices and friendly faces. Try the popular Yanomami bowl, or the Barry Bonds special (named after a favorite customer). Gluten-free options abound, like tapioca crepes and pão de queijo cheese bread.
546a Magnolia Ave, Larkspur, 415.886.8476
Bakery
Brunch | Date Spot | Grab ‘n Go
A tidy back patio shaded by roses and cascading pear trees is ideally suited for sipping a pot of loose leaf tea, cup of pour-over coffee or a hot chocolate at this outpost of the Japantown original. Savory croissants and crumpets are just part of the breakfast menu and a traditional sausage roll and chicken pot pie are highlights at lunch. A signature Afternoon Tea service is available on weekends.
22 Ross Common, Ross, 415.771.4252
Bakery
Grab ‘n Go | Kid-friendly | Meal Under $20 | Outdoor Seating
Along with artisan gluten-free and an assortment of vegan pastries, breads, and special-occasion cakes, this petite cafe serves a lunch menu of so-called fancy toast (avocado, ricotta) and big green salads with seasonal flair. Customer favorites include oatmeal chocolate chip cookies, decadent cinnamon rolls, flourless hazelnut brownies, and the bakery’s signature granola. They do not accept reservations.
702 San Anselmo Ave, San Anselmo, 415.453.3100
Bakery
Grab ‘n Go | Kid-friendly | Meal Under $20
All-American classics like chocolate chunk cookies, lemon bars and hot dog rolls share a pastry case with savory Chinese pastries like a barbecue pork bun (char siu bao) and shrimp rolls, and even Cornish “pasties” — savory hand pies and pot pies like beef or sun-dried tomato quiche. They do not accept reservations.
Red Hill Center, 908 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, San Anselmo, 415.457.3632
Deli
Meal Under $20 | Grab ‘n Go | Kid-Friendly | Brunch
Father-daughter duo Janelle Loiselle and Greg Bernson’s café and deli updates traditional Jewish foods for breakfast (blintzes, kippered salmon, bagels and lox) and lunch (matzo ball soup, house made pastrami sandwiches, house-smoked fish). Loiselle’s pastries (hand pies, honey cake) and real rye bread, challah, and bagels from Novato’s Fire Swamp Provisions are available in the market, too. They do not accept reservations.
906 Sir Francis Drake, San Anselmo, bubbalas.com
Cafe
Meal Under $20
Two years ago out of Ocean Beach in San Francisco, the Longway team opened a cafe centered around a small, crafted, woman-owned coffee brand, Lady Falcon Coffee. Born from a simple love of roasting beans and a community that supports them, their shop in San Anselmo pours high-quality coffee and local goods from Cibo Bakery, Johnny’s Doughnuts and Urban Remedy. They do not accept reservations.
641 San Anselmo Ave, San Anselmo, 415.306.7657
Bakery
Grab 'n Go | Kid-friendly
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. They do not accept reservations.
1109 4th St, San Rafael, 415.717.8557
Bakery
Grab 'n Go | Kid-friendly
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. They do not accept reservations.
1512 Fourth St, San Rafael, 415.453.2957
Bakery
Dogs Welcome | Grab ‘n Go | Kid-friendly | Outdoor Seating
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. They do not accept reservations.
1617 Fourth St, San Rafael, 415.450.1866
Bakery
Grab ‘n Go | Kid-friendly | Meal Under $20
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. They do not accept reservations.
117 Shaver St., San Rafael
American
Brunch | Kid-friendly | Meal Under $20
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 4th Street in San Rafael, stop by to enjoy an omelet, benedict, pancakes, biscuits, and more with their friendly staff. They do not accept reservations.
1143 4th St, San Rafael, 415.456.7669
Cafe
Meal Under $20 | Kid-Friendly
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. They do not accept reservations.
999 Andersen Dr, Ste. 160, San Rafael, 415.457.0113
American
Brunch | Dogs Welcome | Full Bar | Kid-friendly | Meal Under $20 | Outdoor Seating
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”. They do not accept reservations.
1335 Fourth St, San Rafael, 415.492.1530
Korean
Meals Under $20 | Grab 'n Go | New Hot Spot
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. They do not accept reservations.
2165 Francisco Blvd E, Unit C, San Rafael, 415.306.7093
Cafe
Grab 'n Go | Tea | Coffee by the Pot
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. They do not accept reservations.
1146 4th St, San Rafael. 415.932.6935
Cafe
Kid-friendly | Grab 'n Go | Outdoor Seating
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. They do not accept reservations.
1031 C St, San Rafael, 415.991.5061
Cafe
Grab 'n Go | Meal Under $20 | Kid-friendly
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. They do not accept reservations.
1100 4th St, San Rafael, 415.578.2558
Mexican
Grab ‘n Go | Kid-friendly | Meal Under $20 | Outdoor Seating | Watch the Game
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. They do not accept reservations.
711 D St, San Rafael, 415.456.7345
Northern Marin
Novato
American
Brunch | Kid-friendly | Meal under $20 | Outdoor Seating
A cult classic for about half a century, the restaurant is currently owned by Chuck and Nichole Drefs, whom you can find pictured in the menu as characters from Conan the Barbarian. The restaurant is known for their corned beef — try it on the Julia Benedict or alongside eggs your way and shredded hash browns. They do not accept reservations.
1112 Grant Ave, Novato, 415.892.4482
American
Brunch | Kid-friendly | Outdoor Seating | Dogs Welcome
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. They do not accept reservations.
1500 Grant Ave, Ste. 1400, Novato, 415.892.9900
Café
Brunch | Grab ‘n Go | Kid-friendly | Outdoor Seating | Meal under $20
A favorite amongst locals, Dr Insomniac’s is the best place to grab a cup of gourmet coffee and a freshly baked pastry. Grab one of their popular ‘scuffins’, a part scone and part muffin delight, with flavors such as blueberry and cream cheese, blackberry and strawberry, and chocolate chip, and with new combinations on the way. They also offer hot, savory items, like their chorizo breakfast burrito or classic sausage and egg muffin sandwich. They do not accept reservations.
800 Grant Ave, Novato, 415.246.7347
Bakery
Brunch | Dogs Welcome | Grab ‘n Go | Kid-friendly | Outdoor Seating
Consistency and quality are the two words that come to mind with Creekside Bakery. For something savory to start your morning, go for their highly-praised smoked salmon toast, with herbed cream cheese, radish, pickled shallot, and sprinkled with everything seasoning. And of course, you simply must get a pastry from their extensive selection. Try a peach and brie croissant for a sweet and salty combo, or a flaky morning bun for an oldie-but-goodie. They do not accept reservations.
1719 Grant Ave, Novato, 415.892.7655
Bakery
Grab 'n Go | Kid-friendly | Meal Under $20
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. They do not accept reservations.
850 Grant Ave, San Rafael, 415.893.7700
American
Dogs Welcome | Kid-friendly | Meal Under $20 | Outdoor Seating
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. They do not accept reservations.
5800 Nave Drive, Novato, 415.382.1144
American
Grab ‘n Go | Kid-Friendly | Outdoor Seating
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. They do not accept reservations.
6 Hamilton Landing, Suite 100, Novato, 415.234.8923
Cafe
Outdoor Seating | Kid-friendly | Meal Under $20 | Grab 'n Go
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. They do not accept reservations.
800 Grant Ave, Novato, 415.246.7347
American
Yeehaw! 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!
1700 Novato Blvd, Novato, 415.897.1970
Cafe
Dogs Welcome | Grab ‘n Go | Kid-friendly | Meal Under $20 | Outdoor Seating
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. They do not accept reservations.
464 Ignacio Blvd, Novato, 415.475.1128
Cafe
Dogs Welcome | Grab ‘n Go | Kid-friendly | Meal Under $20 | Outdoor Seating
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. They do not accept reservations.
127 San Marin Drive, Novato, 415.493.6902
Western Marin
Bolinas – Forest Knolls – Inverness – Lagunitas – Marshall – Nicasio – Point Reyes – Stinson Beach – Tamales – Woodacre
American
Kid-friendly | Outdoor seating | Brunch | Dogs Welcome | Meal under $20
Known for live music and an extensive menu featuring everything from crispy calamari to braised lamb shanks, Rancho Nicasio is open seven days a week, including brunch. Whatever you choose, a newly reconfigured outdoor space welcomes all with plenty of shade and space between tables. They do not accept reservations.
1 Old Rancheria Road, Nicasio, 415.662.2219
Bakery
Kid-friendly | Meal under $20
A sprinkling of gluten-free fare such as a chocolate cherry almond cookies or blueberry banana muffins are regularly available, but the downtown Point Reyes Station bakery is beloved for its gluten-full raspberry almond marzipan tart and peanut butter blondies as well as for its savory croissants (chevre, spinach and mushroom is oh-so Marin). They do not accept reservations.
11315 Shoreline Hwy, Point Reyes Station, 415.663.9420
Bakery
Meal under $20 | Grab ‘n Go | Date Spot
The daily bread list includes country white sourdough and ficelle rolls but people often shop by day of the week for apricot hazelnut scones and lemon poppyseed poundcake. Thursday brings baker’s choice whole grain bread while Saturday means half or whole Khorasan miche — a French country-style sourdough made with ancient kamut — is available. They do not accept reservations.
40 Fourth St, Point Reyes Station, 415.663.1203
Bakery
Kid-friendly | Outdoor seating | Private party room | Brunch | Grab ‘n Go | Worth the Hype | Dogs Welcome | Date Spot
Enjoy a sit-down alfresco meal at one of the shaded tables in the garden or grab a sourdough crust pizza, burger, or sandwich to enjoy on the beach at an all-day cafe with a takeout window, market . If you’re on the go, check out the market and bakery and its array of organic locally grown produce, artisan meats, and wild seafood. They do not accept reservations.
43 Arenal Ave, Stinson, 415.868.1272
Bakery
Brunch | Date Spot | Outdoor Seating | Worth the Hype
The San Francisco Chronicle recently lauded Tomales’ popular bakery as one of the best bakeries in the Bay Area and we couldn’t agree more. Be sure to stop by during the morning for a breakfast biscuit sandwich stuffed with egg and cheese, an iced pecan roll or a ham and cheese croissant — the bakery transitions to a Roman-style pizzeria and sub shop at 11 a.m. They do not accept reservations.
2700 CA-1, Tomales, 707.879.2022
