16 minute read
Dine An insider’s guide to restaurants and food in the
FEB 9–12 San Francisco Tribal and Textile Art
Show Enjoy a gala the first night and then three days featuring the arts of tribal cultures and indigenous peoples of the Americas, Asia, Oceania, Polynesia, the Middle East and Africa. Fort Mason Center (SF). sanfranciscotribal andtextileartshow.com
FEB 10 Shaolin Warriors: The Legend
Continues Witness the dazzling, highenergy art of kung fu as demonstrated by the Shaolin Warriors. The group takes the stage to perform live feats that make movie stunts looks pedestrian, eliciting gasps, laughter and edge-of-your-set attention. Marin Veterans’ Memorial Auditorium (San Rafael). 415.473.6400, marin county.org
FEB 10–12 California International Antiquarian Book Fair
Peruse the world’s largest antiquarian book fair, featuring nearly 200 booksellers from the United States and beyond. Choose from a selection of books, manuscripts, maps and other printed materials. Marriott City Center (Oakland). cabookfair.com
FEB 11 Mardis Gras
Dance Party Embrace
FEB 17–19 American
Indian Art Show The country’s top dealers, artists, collectors and observers converge to celebrate the rich artistic cultures of the Americas. The show offers something for everyone, including jewelry, beadwork, pottery, paintings, books and more. Marin Center (San Rafael). marinshow.com
the music, food and colorful culture of New Orleans. A zydeco performance kicks off he evening, with a Cajun two-step dance class and Creole-inspired dishes making for a night that’s almost on the bayou. Osher Marin JCC (San Rafael). 415.444.8000, marinjcc.org
FEB 26 Awards Night at the Lark Theater
Celebrate Hollywood’s most glamorous evening at the Lark with special guest emcee Jan Wahl. The Lark Theater (Larkspur). 415.924.5111, lark theater.net
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FILM
FEB 2–11 Amadeus
Enjoy a live broadcast from the National Theatre in the comfort of a Larkspur theater seat. Amadeus tells the story of a young Mozart as he arrives in Vienna, and of established composer Antonio Salieri, jealous of the newcomer’s genius and eager to begin a musical war. The Lark Theater (Larkspur). 415.924.5111, lark theater.net
FEB 16–18 Saint Joan
Gemma Arterton stars in Bernard Shaw’s adaptation of Joan of Arc’s iconic story. Enjoy a live broadcast of the National Theatre’s production. The Lark Theater (Larkspur). 415.924.5111, larktheater.net
NATURE WALKS & TALKS
THRU FEB 3 Yellowstone Winter Landscape and Wildlife
Be inspired by the winter splendor of Yellowstone National Park in this seven-day landscape and wildlife photography workshop with Jackson Hole local Henry Holdsworth and Leanne Hansen. The Image Flow (Mill Valley). 415.388.3569, theimageflo.com
FEB 1 Fresh Starts Chef Events: Heidi Krahling
Local favorite Chef Heidi Krahling will demonstrate recipes drawn from her two San Anselmo restaurants — Insalata’s and Marinitas — both of which have earned the Michelin Bib Gourmand distinction. The Key Room (Novato). cooking schoolsofamerica.com
FEB 4 History Hike: Mount Tamalpais
Scenic Railroad Join a ranger for a three-mile hike on the Old Railroad Grade while discussing the more-than-100year history of the railway. W. Blithedale trailhead (Mill Valley). 415.473.2816, marincounty.org
FEB 5 Beachwalk
Adventure Explore a stretch of Drakes Beach, one of the most ideal landscapes for beachcombing and
FEBRUARY9–12,2017 I FORTMASONCENTER
FEB9 I OPENINGNIGHTGALA I BENEFITINGTHEDEYOUNG
ProceedssupporttextileartsandtheartsofAfrica,Oceania,andtheAmericasatthedeYoung. CelebrateIndonesiaasthefeaturedcountrywithanexhibition,traditionalmusicandfood.
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FEB 17 | OPENING NIGHT GALA BENEFITING MARINLINK
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spotting elephant seals, whale fossils, shorebirds and more. Point Reyes Field Institute (Point Reyes). 415.663.1200, ptreyes.org
FEB 7 A Taste for
Provence Historian Helen Horowitz discusses her new book, which tells the tale of how the food mecca of Provence came to be. Book Passage (Corte Madera). 415.927.0960, bookpassage.com
FEB 9 The Nature of Reality with B. Alan Wallace and Sean
Carroll Author and Buddhist scholar B. Alan Wallace joins theoretical physicist Sean Carroll in an analysis of reality from both spiritual and scientific viewpoints. Nourse Theater (SF). 415.392.4400, cityarts.net
FEB 11 Trekking the
Model Take a rangerguided tour of the Bay Model, a hydraulic model of the San Francisco Bay and Delta, and discover the stories of the two major operations that took place at this location between 1942 and 2000. Bay Model Visitor Center (Sausalito). 415.332.3871
FEB 12 Exploring Indian
Valley Join naturalists David Herlocker and Shannon Burke of Marin County Parks for a day of exploration and education. Look for wintertime animals while following the creek up the canyon for a waterfall-side lunch. College of Marin Indian Valley (Novato). 415.456.7283, wildcare bayarea.org
FEB 12 Drakes Estero
Kayak Adventure Jump in a kayak for a float upon Drakes Estero, where shorebirds, harbor seals, bat rays, leopard sharks and other creatures make their home. Point Reyes Field Institute (Point Reyes). 415.663.1200, ptreyes.org
FEB 12 Joyce Carol
Oates The storied author discusses her latest novel, A Book of American Martyrs, which centers on the grief-ridden stories of two inextricably linked U.S. families. Book Passage (Corte Madera). 415.927.0960, bookpassage.com FEB 13 Paul Auster The best-selling author of Sunset Park, The New York Trilogy and more discusses his newest novel, 4 3 2 1, which tells the story of Archibald Isaac Ferguson in four separate — but equally fictional — parts. Nourse Theater (SF). 415.392.4400, cityarts.net
FEB 15 Marin Scuba
Club Get active in the area scuba-diving community at the Marin Scuba Club’s monthly meetings, featuring speakers, films and more. Saylor’s Restaurant (Sausalito). marinscuba.org
FEB 16 One Tam: Wildlife Picture Index Project Training and
Cataloging Join One Tam and become a “community scientist” learning to maintain wildlife cameras and help process photos. Civic Center (San Rafael). onetam.org
FEB 17–19 The Nature of
Tai Chi Learn about the ancient art of moving meditation, to improve your balance while increasing strength, flexibility and inner peace. Point Reyes Field Institute (Point Reyes). 415.663.1200, ptreyes.org
FEB 18 French
Macarons The intricacies of preparing this delicate, colorful cookie, from the crisp shell to the light filling to the best sandwich technique. San Francisco Cooking School (SF). 415.346.2665, sfcooking.com
FEB 20 Nature for Kids:
Deer Island A mixture of environs offers the chance to see a variety of cold-weather creatures. Remember to bring a lunch and layers. Gate on Deer Island Lane. (Novato). 415.893.9508, marin countyparks.org
FEB 26 Early Flowers
at Mount Burdell Join rangers on a search for the fragrant fritillary, Marin County’s nodding white lily, while enjoying other early bloomers like shooting stars, milkmaids and more. Simmons Lane. (Novato). 415.893.9508, marincountyparks.org
Celebrating the joy of finding each other.
MARCH 4, 2017 THE CLUBHOUSE AT PEACOCK GAP MARINHUMANESOCIETY.ORG/GALA
Dine
AN INSIDER’S GUIDE TO RESTAURANTS AND GOOD FOOD IN THE BAY AREA EDITED BY MIMI TOWLE
What’s Hot
Shrimp Tempura Bao Slider
WHO Tam Tam Ramen WHAT First of Its Kind Ramen Shop WHERE Mill Valley Pan Asian Tam Tam Ramen is the first stand-alone restaurant for Whole Foods in partnership with Genji. The sit-down restaurant features truffle snow crab and ramen bowls as well as bao sliders, wonton nachos and pan-fried gyoza made fresh to order, with sushi and salads from Whole Foods and Urban Remedy in the grab-and-go cooler. For those dining in, opt from an array of sake, beer and wine to complete the meal. 745 E Blithedale Ave, 415.381.3900, genjiweb.com $$ LD
CORTE MADERA
IL FORNAIO Italian This upscale Italian restaurant franchise’s menu offers, aside from the pizzas and pastas, a variety of salads and carb-free entrées. 223 Corte Madera Town Ctr, 415.927.4400, ilfornaio.com s $$ S Í C LD BR
MARIN JOE’S Italian This Marin mainstay has been around for over 50 years. Choose from a menu of soups, salads, seafood, mesquite-grilled or sautéed meats and a plethora of pasta options. For a fun addition to your dining experience, order the Caesar salad — the server will prepare the dressing at your table. Not looking for a meal? Enjoy a drink and hear local musicians at the well-known piano bar. 1585 Casa Buena Dr, 415.924.2081, marin joesrestaurant.com s $$ S C LD
PIG IN A PICKLE
American Fresh local ingredients and the highest-quality brisket, pork, ribs and chicken comprise the menu of this Town Center eatery. Sauces are crafted to represent the best American barbecue regions, from Memphis to South Carolina. House-made pickles, buns and sausages will keep you coming back. 341 Corte Madera Town Ctr, 415.891.3265, pig inapicklebbq.com b $$$ S Í BLD
WORLD WRAPPS
Sandwiches This 21-year-old “fast food” joint is getting a facelift orchestrated by two of the original owners Keith Cox and Matt Blair, starting with the Corte Madera location. Expect a newly renovated space and flavorful additions like the Hawaiian poke wrap and a tahini tofu summer roll that’s vegan friendly. 208 Corte Madera Town Center, 415.927.3663, worldwrapps.com $ S Í LD
FAIRFAX
123 BOLINAS California Created by four friends wanting to showcase seasonal fare in a relaxing, intimate environment, this cozy, one-room eatery offers locally brewed beer, small-production wines and seasonal food along with the view of Bolinas Park through the floorto-ceiling windows. 123 Bolinas St, 415.488.5123, 123bolinas.com b $$ S Í D º
New MAS MASA
Latin American and Mexican Chef and owner Patrick Sheehy and co-owner William Eoff ocus on the ancient technique of corn nixtamalization, utilizing organic, non-GMO heirloom corn varieties. The kitchen is 100 percent gluten-free and beer and wine lists highlight local California microbreweries and wineries. 31 Bolinas Rd, 415.529.5444, eatmasmasa.com s $$ S Í LD
VILLAGE SAKE
Japanese Lucky for Fairfax, beloved former Sushi Ran chef Scott Whitman and talented Marin-based restaurateur partners have opened an Izakaya — a Japanese style community pub — on Bolinas Street. In this compact space you’ll find maki rolls and skewers, plus sake and craft beers. Closed Tuesdays. 19 Bolinas Road, 415.521.5790, villagesake.com b $$$ Í D
LARKSPUR
DON ANTONIO Italian Filled with traditional Italian cuisine, the menu offers an assortment of classic dishes like gorgonzola gnocchi, veal parmesan, carbonara and an extensive wine list. Guests are welcome to enjoy any one of these items on the spacious outdoor patio. 455 Magnolia Ave, 415.924.3332, amalfi ristorantelarkspur.com b $$ Í LD
BELCAMPO MEAT CO.
American The goods at this meatery are delivered from the certified-organic Belcampo Farms near Mount Shasta, dedicated to practicing a holistic approach to pasture management. Try the lamb burger banh mi or the daily meat board. Marin Country Mart, 2405 Larkspur Landing Circle, 415.448.5810, belcampomeatco.com b $$ Í LD BR
PERRY’S American The San Francisco mainstay has a location across the bridge in Larkspur, bringing with it its wide selection of salads, steaks and comfort favorites like French onion soup. Replacing the Lark Creek Inn, the skylights bring in plenty of natural light and an expanded bar is ideal for sipping the restaurant’s famed bloody mary’s. Valet parking is offered and brunch is served on Saturdays and Sundays. 234 Magnolia Ave, 415.927.1877, perryssf.com s $$ LD º
PICCO California Popular since its inception, Picco has a seasonally driven menu featuring items such as risotto (made every half hour) that keep patrons coming back. Pizzeria Picco next door is famous for its wood-fired pizzas, wine selection and softserve Straus Family Creamery ice cream. 320 Magnolia Ave, 415.924.0300, restaurantpicco.com s $$$ S Í C D
RUSTIC BAKERY
California This homegrown bakery is known and loved the world over. In fact, Pope Francis famously requested Rustic Bakery flatbread and
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crostini when he visited the United States in 2015. Bread that’s baked fresh each morning in addition to granola, cookies, muffins and croissants make this a local staple. 1139 Magnolia Ave, 415.925.1556; 2017 Larkspur Landing Circle, 415.461.9900; rusticbakery.com b $$ S Í BLD BR
MILL VALLEY
BUCKEYE ROADHOUSE
American Oysters Bingo, baby back ribs and Chili-Lime “Brick” Chicken are a few of the satisfying, comfort-food menu items that have made this classic roadhouse a favorite since the ’30s. The warm, dark-wood bar with red leather booths is a popular spot for cocktails, conversations or a light meal. 15 Shoreline Hwy, 415.331.2600, buckeyeroadhouse.com s $$ C LD BR
BUNGALOW 44
American One of Mill Valley’s neighborhood hot spots, featuring contemporary California comfort food, signature cocktails, fine wine, and one-dollar oysters from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. every day. 44 E. Blithedale Ave, 415.381.2500, bungalow44.com s $$$ S Í C D
EL PASEO American This award-wining eatery in the heart of downtown Mill Valley has been voted most romantic restaurant in Northern California. Built from Mount Tam railroad ties and brick in 1947, El Paseo was restored by owner Sammy Hagar in 2009. The menu offers classic Californian cuisine that’s generously influenced by Spain and an extensive wine list. 17 Throckmorton Ave, 415.388.0741, elpaseomillvalley.com b $$$ Í C D
HARMONY Chinese Enjoy a lighter take on Chinese at this restaurant, nestled in the Strawberry Village. The barbecue pork bun is filled with house-made roasted meat in a savory sauce, and signature prawns are wok seared with scallions. Pair your pick with wine, beer or tea. Be sure to check out the weekday lunch special for an excellent deal. Strawberry Village, 415.381.5300, harmony restaurantgroup.com b $$ S LD
INDIA PALACE Indian Known as “that great restaurant in the Travelodge,” India Palace is a favorite with the takeout crowd; eating on site is also a treat. 707 Redwood Hwy, 415.388.3350, india palacemillvalley.com b $$ S LD
PIATTI RISTORANTE
AND BAR Italian The staff rides itself on capturing the warm and welcoming atmosphere of a traditional Italian trattoria. Get a table by the window or on the outdoor deck for a truly exceptional view right on the water. Peruse the impressive selection of Italian wines to accompany your rustic seasonal meal. 625 Redwood Hwy, 415.380.2525, piatti.com s $$ S Í C LD BR
PIZZA ANTICA
Italian This Italianinspired restaurant in Strawberry Village offers much more than impeccably prepared thin-crust pizzas. The seasonal dishes are created with local ingredients and include chopped salads, housemade pastas, and meat, fish and fowl entrees, such as the Tuscan fried chicken and roasted pork chop. 800 Redwood Hwy, 415.383.0600, pizzaantica.com b $$ S LD BR º
PLAYA Mexican Drawing inspiration from travels and the fresh, flavorful cuisine served on the playa, Peter Schumacher and Bill and Vanessa Higgins, have developed a menu that blends locally sourced, organic and sustainable ingredients with a bar highlighting a selection of exceptional tequilas and mezcals. 41 Throckmorton Ave, 415.384.8871, playamv.com s $$ Í D
PRABH INDIAN
KITCHEN Indian Owned and operated by the Dhindsa family, this restaurant is dedicated to serving healthy, organic and sustainable food, including gluten-free and vegan options. Dishes include chicken pakora, vegetable biryani and basil garlic nan. Try the thali menu (offered at lunch), a selection of several Indian dishes served at once. 24 Sunnyside Ave, 415.384.8241, prabhindiankitchen.com b $$ S Í LD
ROBATA GRILL AND
SUSHI Japanese Robata translates as “by the fireside”; fittingly, food here can be cooked on an open fire and served in appetizer-size portions to pass around the table. Or simply order your own sushi or entree from the menu. 591 Redwood Hwy, 415.381.8400, robatagrill.com b $$ S LD
THEP LELA Thai This jewel is tucked away in the back of Strawberry Village. Diners come for the tasty kee mao noodles, pad thai, fresh rolls and extensive bar menu. It’s also a great place for lunch. 615 Strawberry Village, 415.383.3444, theplela.com s $$ S Í LD
NOVATO
RUSTIC BAKERY
California Organic pastries, breads, salads and sandwiches are on the menu here, including daily seasonal specials. Try the Marin Melt — Cowgirl Creamery’s Mt. Tam and Point Reyes Toma cheeses grilled on honey whole wheat, served with dressed baby greens and crisp apple slices. 1407 Grant Ave, 415.878.4952, rusticbakery.com b $$ S Í BLD BR
THE SPEAKEASY
American There’s nothing like the comfort of a solid burger and beer when you’re kicking back and watching the game, and the Speakeasy provides you with just that. In addition to the 10 beers on tap, you can go beyond traditional pub grub with treats like a deconstructed salmon salad. 504 Alameda del Prado, 415.883.7793, thespeakeasynovato.com s $$ LD BR º
SAN ANSELMO
COMFORTS CAFE
American Established in 1986, Comforts has a cozy sit-down patio and serves breakfast, lunch and weekend brunch. A large take-out section offers fresh bakery items, seasonal salads, soups, sandwiches and even entrees for dinner at home. Besides the famous and popular Chinese chicken salad, other winners are the stuffed pecan-crusted French toast, flavorful scrambles, Chicken Okasan ( nicknamed “Crack Chicken” by fans) and wonton soup. 335 San Anselmo Ave, 415.454.9840, comfortscafe.com b $$ S Í BL BR
SUSHI 69 Japanese Opened in 2001 in San Anselmo, Sushi 69 has been a favorite for locals looking to get their fill
on no frills sushi. The owner hails from Japan and has created an extensive menu featuring traditional tempura and the popular Hiro’s roll (spicy tuna with avocado, salmon and ponzu sauce wrapped in sushi rice). 69 Center Blvd, 415.459.6969, shallwego69.com b $$ Í D
Update
TACO JANE’S
Mexican Taco Jane’s new full bar features a robust tequila and mezcal selection. Its regional Mexican cuisine includes Oaxacan mole, fish tacos and vegetarian options. Black Gold salsa arrives with complimentary chips and is created using charred blackened tomatoes and roasted chilis. Live music Thursdays and enclosed patio seating all year round. 21 Tamalpais Ave, 415.454.6562, tacojanes.com s $$ S Í LD BR
VALENTI & CO. Italian This bright and cozy space is the ideal environment for authentic Italian dishes made with local ingredients. A seat at the chef’s table gives a prime view of the open kitchen. 337 San Anselmo Ave, 415.454.7800, valentico.com b $$$ D
SAN RAFAEL
LA TOSCANA RISTORANTE & BAR
Italian Family owned and operated since 1985, La Toscana has completed an extensive interior and exterior renovation, transforming an already popular San Rafael gathering spot into a place for any occasion. The menu features classics like gnocchi and carbonara and an ample selection of wine. 3751 Redwood Hwy, 415.492.9100, ristorantelatoscana.com s $$$ S Í C LD º
LAVIER CUSINE Latin Fusion Free-range meat and fresh seafood is the focus at this authentic Latin fusion eatery in San Rafael run by Gabriela and her husband Guillermo who hails from Yucatan. Try the plantain and panko crusted cheese sticks to start and follow that with the popular puffy fish tacos with slaw and black beans. Brunch is served on weekends until 2 p.m. 1025 C St, 415.295.7990, lavier latinfusion.com b $$ S LD BR º
LOTUS CUISINE OF INDIA RESTAURANT
Indian Family owned and operated since 1999, Lotus serves up organic North Indian cuisine with many vegan and vegetarian options. The restaurant is a certified green business with an energy-efficient kitchen and features a retractable rooftop and exotic interior decor with casual pink-tablecloth settings. The reasonably priced dishes are made with local, nonGMO and gluten-free ingredients. 704 Fourth St, 415.456.5808, lotusrestaurant.com b $$ S C LD
RANGE CAFE American With floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the grand Peacock Gap lawns, the Range Cafe is the perfect place for comforting American classics with an elegant twist. This inviting lunchtime cafe with its ice-cold lemonade and refreshing chardonnays makes a great dinner spot once the sun
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