Flavor Chicken

Decades of Dining

Servino is a pioneer of Italian taste in Marin.

PEOPLE’S REASONS FOR immigrating vary — better opportunities, refuge — but for Angelo Servino, it was because of a girl. A native of Calabria, Italy, Servino met his future wife (American-born Kathryn Riessen) while she was vacationing in his homeland in the late 1970s. The two moved to the United States, married and opened up Servino on 114 Main in Tiburon in 1978. Servino was drawn to the size and Mediterranean climate of Tiburon, but the landscape was a far cry from the town as we know it today. “There was no Point Tiburon back then,” he reflects. “I think there was only one stoplight.” The culinary climate and customers’ knowledge also differed from today’s. For one, many patrons did not know the difference between rice and risotto: “They used to say, ‘If we want rice we’ll go to a Chinese restaurant.’ ” In 2000, the restaurant expanded and moved down the street to its current waterfront location at 9 Main. After nearly 40 successful years in a traditionally unstable and risky business, does Servino have any tips to promote longevity? “Stay focused on the locals and don’t get lost in tourist season,” he says. “Respect the customer and develop trust.” The rewards of such bonds are not just financial; longtime patrons are now among the many who hold wedding banquets in the restaurant’s upstairs Bellavista Room. “We had a party for a customer’s daughter after she got married; the daughter was a baby when she first came here,” Servino recalls. His is one of the first full-service restaurants in Marin to be certified by the Bay Area Green Business Program, he proudly notes; all pasta is made on-site; and a full gluten-free menu is offered daily. Here’s an original house recipe for chicken Calabrese, which pays homage to Servino’s native region. servino.com KASIA PAWLOWSKA

RECIPE

Pollo Calabrese

SERVES 1

Ingredients

1 organic airline chicken breast 3 tablespoons olive oil 1–2 cloves chopped garlic Salt and pepper to taste 1 teaspoon chopped rosemary ½ cup dry white wine 1 slice fontina cheese 1 grilled 1-inch-thick slice of eggplant ½ cup chicken broth

To Prepare

1 Pan-sear chicken breast on both sides in the olive oil until golden brown. 2 Add garlic, salt and pepper, rosemary and white wine. 3 Sauté until white wine reduces. 4 Top chicken breast with a slice of fontina. 5 Place a slice of grilled eggplant on top of the cheese. 6 Place chicken breast in oven-safe dish, add chicken broth and bake in the oven at 325°F for 3 minutes or until the cheese melts. 7 Plate each chicken breast and drizzle with the remaining sauce. TIP Serve with seasonal organic vegetables and roasted potato.

BARREL HOUSE

TAVERN California Stop by Barrel House for great local food enhanced by fantastic bay and city views. The relaxed urban setting is a perfect match for the barrel-aged cocktails. 660 Bridgeway, 415.729.9593, barrelhousetavern.com s $$$ s ∞ LD º

CIBO Cafe Located in a historic brick building on Sausalito’s main drag, this is a great place to a sip a quick cup of coffee outdoors. The menu offers tarts, croissants, cookies, paninis and soups. Every dish is made from scratch with local and seasonal products. 1201 Bridgeway, 415.331.2426, cibosausalito.com $$ s ∞ BL

COPITA Mexican Chef Joanne Weir serves up fresh Mexican fare in the heart of downtown Sausalito. The everchanging menu is gluten-free, and the in-house tequila bar offers over 100 varieties and fantastic cocktails. Dine at the bar or on the outdoor patio for great people-watching. 739 Bridgeway, 415.331.7400, copitarestaurant.com s $$ s ∞ LD BR

DAVEY JONES DELI

American Stationed in the New Bait Shop Market, Davey Jones Deli offers houseroasted sandwich meats, healthy condiments and local, organic vegetables; the deli serves sandwiches, veggie-wiches, wraps and salads with vegetarian, vegan and meat-lover options. Because the sandwiches are so generous, this easy stop is great during a day of boating, biking, hiking, and general adventuring around Marin. Gate 6 Rd, 415.331.2282, daveyjonesdeli.com b $$ s ∞ L

F3/FAST FOOD

FRANCAIS French Owned and operated by the owners of Le Garage, F3 serves brunch, lunch and dinner featuring “Frenchified” American comfort food. A rotating menu includes items like the Luxe burger (Diestel turkey, brie, lettuce and a fried egg topped with truffle aioli). Enjoy with a side of Brussels sprout chips or pommes dauphines (tater tots). 39 Caledonia St, 415.887.9047, eatf3.com s $$ s ∞ LD BR

FENG NIAN Chinese This spacious popular hangout has served up wonton soup, pot stickers and daily specials for nearly two decades. For an indulgent treat, order the Szechwan crispy calamari, honeyglazed walnut prawn or lemon chicken. Staying in? Feng Nian delivery available. 2650 Bridgeway, 415.331.5300, fengnian.com b $$ s LD

FISH. Seafood The ultimate place for freshly caught fare. Order the fish tacos, ceviche and a bottle of wine and take in the bay views on the open-air deck. Casual; bring cash (lots of it!). 350 Harbor Dr, 415.331.3474, 331fish.com b $$$ s ∞ LD

KITTI’S PLACE Thai/ California This homestyle family restaurant has been in Sausalito 20 years and features favorites like lettuce cups, soft spring rolls

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and weekly specials. 3001 Bridgeway, 415.331.0390, kittisplace.com b $$ s ∞ LD

LE GARAGE French Escape the tourist crush for an indulgent Sausalito brunch right on the water. The atmosphere is animated with light French music (à la Amélie), and the much-adored croquemonsieur is under $10. Indoor or outdoor seating. 85 Liberty Ship Way, 415.332.5625, legaragebistro sausalito.com b $$$ s ∞ BLD BR

LIGHTHOUSE American A great spot to grab a classic breakfast — the fruit pancakes, omelets and Danish-influenced dishes will make you a return customer. This is a small but popular space, so arrive early or be prepared for a wait. 1311 Bridgeway, 415.331.3034, light house-restaurants.com $$ s BL

MURRAY CIRCLE

American Cavallo Point’s acclaimed restaurant features local seasonal fare by executive chef Justin Everett, with pairings from an extensive wine list and tempting desserts. Stop by Farley Bar for cocktails with a view. 601 Murray Circle, 415.339.4750, cavallopoint.com s $$$ s ∞ C BLD BR

NAPA VALLEY BURGER

COMPANY American Incorporating local, all-natural and organic produce and meats, this burger joint serves up gourmet patties, fries, root beer floats and more. With outdoor and indoor tables, the space can accommodate up to 100 people. 670 Bridgeway, 415.332.1454, napavalleyburger company.com s $$ s ∞ L

OSTERIA DIVINO

Tuscan Osteria Divino offers authentic florentine cuisine inspired by the finest local, organic, seasonal produce, meat and fish available, along with an extensive artisan pasta selection. Live music Tue-Sun. 37 Caledonia St, 415.331.9355, osteriadivino.com b $$ s ∞ C BLD BR º

POGGIO Italian Executive chef Benjamin Balesteri creates Northern Italian fare using fresh and local ingredients. Private dining rooms above the restaurant can accommodate larger parties (10 to 150 guests). 777 Bridgeway, 415.332.7771, poggiotratoria.com s $$$ s ∞ C BLD

SEAFOOD PEDDLER RESTAURANT AND

FISH MARKET Seafood The fish is bought daily from local fisherman and recipes are adjusted to incorporate the catch. 303 Johnson St, 415.332.1492, seafoodpeddler.com s $$$ s ∞ LD BR º

SEAHORSE Italian The spacious dining area, accompanied by a dance floor and stage, make Seahorse ideal for celebrations large and small. Enjoy a modern twist on classic Tuscan coastal cuisine while grooving to the nightly live music and entertainment. 305 Harbor Dr, 415.331.2899, sausalitoseahorse.com b $$$ ∞ C LD BR º

SUSHI RAN Japanese Sample innovative small plates just big enough to share before enjoying some of the best sushi the Bay Area has to offer; the prices don’t deter the herd of enthusiasts who line up nightly to partake. Just stopping by? The wine, cocktail and sake lists keep even the pickiest barfly satisfied. Reservations are required in the main room. 107 Caledonia St, 415.332.3620, sushiran.com s $$ ∞ LD

TASTE OF THE

HIMALAYAS Himalayan Popular for lunch and dinner, enjoy authentic food from a faraway region. 2633 Bridgeway, 415.331.1335, sausalitotasteofthe himalayas.com b $$ s LD

THE TRIDENT Seafood Set in a turn-of-thecentury building constructed for the San Francisco Yacht Club, this waterfront restaurant is a shoe-in for date night. The restaurant, a famous 1970s hangout, is now known for supporting local farmers, fisherman and organic food producers. 558 Bridgeway, 415.331.3232, the tridentsausalito.com s $$$ s ∞ LD BR º

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TIBURON

CAPRICE California Book the private party room for large groups or just relax in this romantic dinner spot. Take advantage of the restaurant’s wellpriced three-course dinners for less than $25, and don’t miss prime rib Mondays. 2000 Paradise Dr, 415.435.3400, thecaprice.com s $$$ D

DON ANTONIO

TRATTORIA Italian Located in Tiburon’s Ark Row, this trattoria serves authentic Italian cuisine in a quaint setting. Traditional selections include chicken piccata, organic roasted rack of lamb and house-made pesto. 114 Main St, 415.435.0400, donantoniotrattoria.com b $$ D

GUAYMAS

RESTAURANT Mexican Situated right next to the Tiburon ferry terminal on the waterfront, it’s got touch-it-you’re-soclose city views and outdoor seating, making it a great place to bring visitors on a warm summer night. Happy hour is 4 to 7 p.m. Monday to Friday. 5 Main St, 415.435.6300, guaymasrestaurant.com s $$$ s ∞ C LD º

MILANO Italian Located in the Cove Shopping Center, this familyowned neighborhood spot is known for its pasta and friendly service. Favorites like the cheesy garlic bread and pesto keep customers coming back. 1 Blackfield Dr, 415.388.9100 s $$ s ∞ LD

NEW MORNING CAFE

American Sit outside or in at this casual cafe. On a sunny morning, the place is filled with locals enjoying the sun and extensive breakfast menu; lunch is served as well. 1696 Tiburon Blvd, 415.435.4315 s ∞ BL

SALT & PEPPER

American This sunfilled one-room restaurant, featuring hardwood floors and blue-checkered tablecloths, is an area favorite. Popular items include scallops, ribeye steak, a beef burger and traditional crab cakes with jalapeño dipping sauce. 38 Main St, 415.435.3594 b s ∞ LD

SAM’S ANCHOR CAFE

American Sam’s deck is a popular spot for brunch on a lazy sunny Sunday, and its bar is the town’s historic watering hole, but Sam’s is also a great place for lunch or dinner. Sample a seasonal menu served all day, every day. 27 Main St, 415.435.4527, samscafe.com s $$$ s ∞ C LD BR º

SERVINO RISTORANTE

Italian Chef and owner Angelo Servino highlights organic ingredients in an array of rustic Italian dishes, including house-made pastas, wood oven pizzas, and seasonal specialties. Located on the bay in Tiburon, Servino also prides itself on itsextensive sustainable seafood program. Savor la dolce vita on the waterfront patio. 9 Main St, 415.435.2676, servino.com s $$$ s ∞ C LD BR º • NAMU GAJI Asian/ California A clean and natural design in a streamlined setting, where housemade shiitake mushroom dumplings and succulent grilled beef tongue are among the many options to discover. 499 Dolores St, 415.431.6268, namusf.com

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TIBURON TAVERN

California The atmosphere here is enhanced by two outdoor patios, two indoor fireplaces and fresh flowers. Happy hour is 4 to 6:30 p.m. every day. 1651 Tiburon Blvd, 415.435.5996, lodgeattiburon.com s $$ s ∞ C BLD BR º

WEST MARIN

NICK’S COVE American Nick’s Cove offers a coastal escape on Tomales Bay, serving famous barbecued local oysters, Dungeness crab mac ’n’ cheese and cocktails using home-grown ingredients. Large windows in the 130seat restaurant provide picturesque views of Tomales Bay and Hog Island. (Marshall). 23240 Hwy 1, 415.663.1033, nickscove.com s $$$ s ∞ C LD BR

OSTERIA STELLINA

California Whether it’s to cap off a ay of hiking or celebrate a romantic anniversary, Osteria Stellina suits any occasion. The menu is Italian-inspired and features local, organic ingredients. If you’re up for something unusual, try the goat shoulder, a hit with both tourists and locals (Point Reyes). 11285 Hwy 1, 415.663.9988, osteriastellina.com b $$ s LD

PARKSIDE CAFE

American Perfect for a sit-down alfresco meal or for grabbing a burger to enjoy on the beach. Beautiful patio garden seating, ocean views, and private wood-fired dinners make this café a relaxing retreat. If you’re on the go, check out the new market and bakery. Choose from an array of organic, locally grown produce, artisan meats and wild seafood (Stinson). 43 Arenal Ave, 415.868.1272, parksidecafe.com s $$$ s ∞ C BLD

RANCHO NICASIO

American Known for live music and an extensive menu featuring everything from Dungeness crab cakes to garlic-rosemary lamb medallions, Rancho Nicasio is open seven days a week. Be sure to stop in for happy hour, 4 to 6 p.m. Monday to Friday. 1 Old Rancheria (Nicasio) Rd, 415.662.2219, ranchonicasio.com s $$$ s ∞ C LD BR º

SAND DOLLAR

American Originally built from three barges in Tiburon in 1921, the Sand Dollar Restaurant was floated to Stinson that same year. Enjoy live music along with barbecued local oysters and New England clam chowder. The sunny deck is great in the afternoon (Stinson). 3458 Shoreline Hwy, 415.868.0434, stinson beachrestaurant.com s $$ s ∞ LD

SIR & STAR AT THE

OLEMA California The historic inn has reopened as a roadhouse-style restaurant featuring rustic decor and a delicious yet affordable menu. Try the house-made bread and honey butter, the kale Caesar and the stuffed quail, then come back and work your way through the entire menu — most items are $20 or less (Olema). 10000 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, 415.663.1034, sirandstar.com

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STATION HOUSE

CAFE American Fresh local homegrown foods are showcased for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Stop in on weekends (5 p.m. on Sundays) for live music and wine, beer and cocktails (Point Reyes Station). 11180 Highway 1, 415.663.1515, stationhousecafe.com s $$ s ∞ C BLD BR º

SAN FRANCISCO /EAST BAY

AQ RESTAURANT

& BAR California AQ takes seasonal to a new

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level, not only adapting the menu but also transforming the decor of the entire venue to match the weather outside. 1085 Mission St, 415.341.9000, aq-sf.com s $$$ ∞ D

BOULI BAR American/ Mediterranean Head to Boulettes Larder’s new bar and dining room for the savory flavors of spicy lamb, feta and mint or the bittersweetness of salad topped with barberries, bulgur and pomegranate, all in a setting with handsome wood tables and an open kitchen. In the evening, the dining room can readily be reserved for small private parties of up to 24 on request. The views of the Bay Bridge punctuate an unmistakably San Francisco setting. 1 Ferry Building, 415.399.1155, bouletteslarder.com s $$$ s ∞ C BLD BR

BOXING ROOM Cajun The Southern comfort of Louisiana, updated to fit the polished elegance of the city. Indulge in authentic Cajunstyle eats and fresh California seafood. 399 Grove St, 415.430.6590, boxingroom.com s $$$ s LD BR º

CLIFF HOUSE California Great food, beautiful view and lots of history — what else could you want? An awardwinning wine list? They have that too. Not only does Cliff ouse boast a popular Sunday champagne brunch, it also focuses on local, organic, sustainable ingredients and seafood on its everyday menu. 1090 Point Lobos, 415.386.3330, cliffhouse.com s $$ s BLD

EPIC STEAK American An upscale meat lover’s mecca with a sophisticated atmosphere, Epic Steak’s bayside location delivers on all fronts. Professional service, choice cuts of prime rib and chocolate souffles are among • LUNA BLU Sicilian Executive chef Renzo Azzarello and his wife, Crystal, serve English afternoon tea (a special service by reservation only). The menu changes daily, incorporating seasonal, fresh and organic produce. The restaurant has partnered with the Monterey Bay Aquarium Seafood Watch, so all the seafood is sustainable. 35 Main St, 415.789.5844

s $$$ s ∞ LD

the things that keep patrons coming back. An upstairs bar is also a happy hour favorite. 369 Embarcadero, 415.369.9955, epicsteak.com s $$$ ∞ LD º

ESPETUS CHURRASCARIA

Brazilian This steakhouse boasts a tasting menu of 14 meat courses grilled in the traditional Brazilian method. Patrons control the pace of the prix fixe experience with colored signal cards. 1686 Market St, 415.552.8792, espetus.com s $$$ s C LD

FRANCES California San Francisco elegance meets comfort food. The local, seasonal menu complements any trip to the city. Bar is reserved for walk-ins, but reservations are recommended. 3870 17th St, 415.621.3870, frances-sf.com b $$$ D HAKKASAN Chinese The rich-flavored slow-braised beef and the crispy duck salad are popular at this San Francisco destination. Private dining rooms are offered: the Jade Room complete with lazy Susan and the larger Dragon Room for cocktail parties or dinners. 1 Kearny St, 415.829.8148, hakkasan.com s $$$ C LD

MICHAEL MINA

Japanese/French Michael Mina has clearly mastered the fine line between award-winning art and Alaskan halibut. Each dish gives diners a delicate blend of flavors that add up to a distinctive dining experience. 252 California St, 415.397.9222, michaelmina.net s $$$ LD

PERRY’S American Perry’s, for over 45 years an institution on Union Street in San Francisco, is known for its classic American food, its warm personable service and its bustling bar. Signature dishes include traditional Cobb salad, prime steaks and, of course, the renowned hamburger. Perry’s also serves a weekend brunch. Hotel Griffon, 155 Steuart St, 415.495.6500, perryssf.com s $$ s ∞ C D º

PIKANHAS BRAZILIAN STEAKHOUSE

Steakhouse This all-you-can-eat steakhouse located in Point Richmond offers different cuts of beef, pork, lamb and chicken that are slowly cooked with special grills to preserve all the natural juices and flavors. 25 W. Richmond Ave, Richmond 510.237.7585, pikanhassteak house.com b $$ s LD

RICE PAPER SCISSORS

Vietnamese At this Mission District spot with a pop-up sibling, try the popular grilled steak bahn mi on one of the bright red stools and stay warm with a pot of jasmine tea. 1710 Mission St, 415.878.6657, ricepaperscissors.com $$ s ∞ LD RICH TABLE California A bright, relaxed environment for savoring fresh ingredients grown only feet from the kitchen, creative and quirky cocktails and California wine. 199 Gough St, 415.355.9085, richtablesf.com s $$$ D

STATE BIRD

PROVISIONS American With a wide variety of choices, from fresh local seafood to spicy kimchi yuba to savory pancakes, not to mention a full range of poultry, this uncommon dim sum–style setup features a little bit of everything. 1529 Fillmore St, 415.795.1272, statebirdsf.com b $$ s D

TOWN HALL American The exposed brick and warm, unconventional lighting turn Town Hall’s large space into an intimate yet elegant environment. With a more-than-adequate wine list and savory American classics like pork tenderloin with honey grits, a visit here should be on everyone’s list. 342 Howard St, 415.908.3900, townhallsf.com s $$$ ∞ C LD º

KEY TO SYMBOLS

s b $ $$ $$$ s ∞ C BLD BR º Full bar Wine and beer Inexpensive ($10 or less per entree) Moderate (up to $20) Expensive ($20 and over) Kid-friendly Outdoor seating Private party room Seating: Breakfast, lunch, dinner Brunch Happy hour

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