We are honored to be recognized as the Best Med Spa in Marin, and it’s all because of you! Under the expert leadership of our Founder and Clinical Director, Linda Behla, RN, our talented team is committed to helping you look and feel your absolute best. We o er over 30 state-of-the-art facial and body treatments, complemented by premium medical-grade skincare. Our mission is to deliver re ned, natural-looking results while earning your trust and prioritizing your care at every step. Thank you for trusting us with your beauty journey.
Your beauty is uniquely yours; your treatment should be too.
We know you value results that look natural—never overdone—and we deliver. But no two faces are the same. You won’t nd quick xes or cookie-cutter regimens at Hayes Valley Medical Esthetics.
We utilize our expertise to customize treatment especially for you, because you deserve it. Here, you can expect personalized, attentive care and the most e ective, clinically proven treatments tailored to you.
Creative Strategy. Trusted Collaboration. A Dream Home Made Possible .
“It was a pleasure partnering with the Bowman Real Estate Group on this thoughtful, client-first strategy. By using a bridge loan, we unlocked flexibility and speed—allowing the buyers to move confidently without sacrificing financial security. Grateful to the clients for trusting us, and to the Bowmans for always bringing clarity, creativity, and heart to the process.”
-Sofia Nadjibi, MBA Golden Gate Lending Group
The value of our business is measured in the quality of the relationships we build.
OUTRIGGER
An aquatic playground on world famous Kā’anapali Beach
Honua Kai Resort & Spa
38 Best of the County
This issue is dedicated to the very best businesses in Marin County in several categories: Arts and Events, Beauty, Dining, Fitness, Home Design, Philanthropy, Services and Shopping. For more than 15 years we have been celebrating the businesses that you readers deem to be the best. This year we had more than 21,000 votes cast to our online voting portal. A business had to get at least 10 votes to be on this list. You can rest assured these businesses are community vetted by you!
IN MARIN
23 Currents
Marin app, re-use, San Rafael green, AI, Buck report and more.
101 Travel
Filoli Trolls and local traveling with purpose.
OUT & ABOUT
108 Calendar
A roundup of what to do in Marin and beyond.
114 Dine
An insider’s guide to dining and food in the Bay Area.
126 On the Scene
Snapshots from events around the county.
MARIN HOME
131 Backstory
Tiburon transformation, a family home is renovated for the empty nester stage of life.
134 Neighborhoods
Paige Peterson shares her family’s multi-generational story of living on the Belvedere Lagoon.
Troll exhibit at Filoli Gardens
Experience a dinner of rare wines and artfully composed cuisine in our historic wine cave on Saturday, November 1st.
Secure your reservation at StagsLeapWineCellars.com.
PRESIDENT / OPERATIONS
Nikki N. Wood nwood@marinmagazine.com
Editorial
EDITORIAL DIRECTOR
Mimi Towle
DIGITAL EDITOR
Jessica Gliddon
DIGITAL ASSOCIATE EDITOR
Emma Robertson
DEPARTMENT EDITORS
Lotus Abrams, Donna Berry Glass
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Lotus Abrams, Lynda Balslev, Donna Berry Glass, Blair LaCorte, Eric Verdin, Jim Wood
INTERNS
Merritt Brinckerhoff, Quinn Edington, Olivia Holscher, Ali Jampol
Art
ART DIRECTOR
Ryan Mastalerz
PRODUCTION DIRECTOR
Alex French
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
R. Brad Knipstein
COVER Ryan Mastalerz
Administration
CONTROLLER
Maeve Walsh
Co-Founders
Jim Wood, Nikki N. Wood
WEIGHTS
F45 Training Novato, Pure Barre, IHOP, and over 55 other stores, restaurants and services
Rowland Blvd Exit, Highway 101
ShopVintageOaks.com
GROUP PUBLISHER
Nikki C . Wood
MEDIA DIRECTOR
Lesley Cesare lcesare@marinmagazine.com
SENIOR ACCOUNT MANAGER
Sharon Coleman scoleman@marinmagazine.com
SENIOR ACCOUNT MANAGER
Karen Fraser kfraser@270-media.com
SENIOR ACCOUNT MANAGER
Michele Kuhns michele@270media.com
ADVERTISING ART MANAGER
Alex French
SALES COORDINATOR
Hayley Swanson
MARKETING SPECIALIST
Helena Grant
Regional Sales Offices
TAHOE
Karen Fraser kfraser@270-media.com
SONOMA Lesley Cesare lcesare@marinmagazine.com
NAPA
Sharon Coleman scoleman@marinmagazine.com
NEW YORK
Karen Couture, Couture Marketing 917.821.4429
LOS ANGELES / HAWAII
Meredith Low meredith@meredithlowhawaii.com
270 Media Founders
Nikki N. Wood, Nikki C. Wood, Mimi Towle
Reader Services
MAILING ADDRESS
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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR: Please send letters to editorial@marinmagazine.com. Include your full name, city, state and phone number. Marin Magazine reserves the right to edit letters for clarity, length and style.
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BULK ORDERS
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VINTAGE OAKS HAS IT
Enjoy the best of Monterey on Cannery Row
Natural wonders abound in Monterey, and there simply is no better place to experience it all than with a stay on Cannery Row. Known for it’s picturesque charm and colorful history, guests to this fabled street can enjoy a unique combination of luxurious waterfront hotels, enticing restaurants and captivating boutiques. Come, slow down and enjoy the best of Monterey on Cannery Row.
InterContinental The Clement Monterey
Schooners
COMMUNITY ISSUE
Is it me or are we all taking sides these days; do we all have itchy trigger fingers? I was at a party the other day and someone complained that the host was serving Red Vines, not Twizzler. I could barely keep my composure — WHO would ever want spongy, red goo, that would take a Waterpik on steroids to get out of your teeth? Because of the obvious superiority of Red Vines, I thought she would be easy to flip, however, I couldn’t change her mind, and learned she grew up in Texas, where getting Twizzlers was a childhood highlight. My bad. Where is this tribalism coming from? It seems to be coming from everywhere, especially my phone. After sharing clever Gen X rules videos (I feel seen!) with my cousin, my Instagram feed was inundated with generational warfare videos. I didn’t know this was a battle now, too? I can’t figure out if I am jealous of the entitlement I saw from a whiny Gen Z’er in a recent TikTok video, using terms like “performative tasks” in regards to her job, or just truly annoyed by what looked to me like a person wanting life delivered to her on a silver platter. When I brought the video up with two of our college-age interns, they agreed that the TikToker was annoying, and suddenly my armor was down. Phew, we aren’t on opposite sides. I was falling for the click bait of our 2-second media cycle. Dare I bring up politics? Nah, let’s leave that topic off the table. Speaking of getting along, we all got a smile from a letter we received without a return address. The request was to include street addresses so one doesn’t need to navigate via computer. He or she makes a really good point. And the final sentence, although expressing irritability, could be perceived as a nice olive branch to the mental-health obsessed Gen Z’ers.
As a magazine, we strive to create a respite from the 2-second news cycle. We want you to sit down and enjoy reading about your community, or — let’s be real — it’s Marin County, you’re probably on a treadmill. You may not notice (or care), but our content is purposely delivered like a good meal. Starting off with tasty bites, appetizers, followed by the feature well, which are usually thought-provoking articles that affect you. Then we get to dessert, which is an array of travel, On the Scene (which means things to do and places to eat) and finally the true eye-candy — real estate.
This month, the feature well is all about the Best of the County. Curiously, (or not), over 90% of the Readers’ Choice businesses were the same as previous years and kudos to them for having loyal customers, friends and family to vote for them. This year we had over 21,000 individuals cast a vote, which is 10,000 more than last year. For businesses who don’t have an activated customer base, they still need 10 votes to stay on the list, ensuring these lists are all reader-vetted!
Our big news is our new Marin Magazine app — Hello Marin. We are starting off with perks from Best of the County, see pages 32 and 33 and my favorite part is the ‘near me’ feature. So when you’re craving sushi or a burger, these businesses will pop up, and if luck is on your side, they’ll be offering a Best of the County perk to encourage you to come in the door. We’ve also created the ability to create lists to share with friends, or visitors. We hope having the ‘Hello Marin’ app in your hand will make it easier to find and share your favorite things to do in Marin. Congratulations to all businesses in the following pages, and if we’ve missed yours, not to worry, send us a note at editorial@marinmagazine. com, and we’ll add you to the voting list for next year.
STRENGTHEN TONE & FIRM
A BREAKTHROUGH TECHNOLOGY IN MAGNETIC BODY SCULPTING AND MUSCLE STRENTHENING
The StarFormer® TightWave® treatment uses noninvasive, HITS® technology to selectively target muscle tissues and provide strengthening, toning and firming of different areas of the body and IntimaWave® to strengthen pelvic floor muscles.
Treatments Include:
Glutes • Abdomen • Hamstring area • Arms • Back muscles
Pelvic floor stress • Urinary incontinence • Strengthening for sexual wellness in women and men
1214 Andersen Drive, San Rafael, CA 415/454-1623 lampertikitchens.com
LETTERS
On Jonah Steinhart’s First Person
“The story was an inspiration for me and for a dear friend who has been trying to find/ create a forever home for her disabled adult son. Until now, neither she nor I had heard of the non profit Prader-Willi Homes of California, and the home for disabled adults PWH recently opened in Novato. I know my friend will be reaching out to PWH to see if their work can be duplicated in her town (where she’s done a lot of legwork).”
— Louise Berto
On Marin’s Shifting Shoreline
“What is not being addressed by your magazine, or Marin County, is the constant RV fires on Binford Rd Novato (since 2018), which was once the protected wetlands. There was yet another RV fire on Binford Rd on June 29. There are many solutions to remove the remaining residents and their RVs and vehicles from here to live in safety (and in a less environmentally sensitive spot) with ample tax dollars to do so. Yet the remaining residents demand to stay. The county of Marin preaches Fire Safety ad nauseam. The RV fires are toxic and carcinogenic to the wetlands and humans alike. The county of Marin can do a lot better for all living creatures.”
— Toni Shroyer
Have something to say?
Email us at editorial@marinmagazine.com and be sure to include the town you live in. Letters to the editor may be edited for clarity and space.
CURRENTS
Canoes on the Bay
This month, Tamalpais Outrigger Canoe Club will be celebrating the 30th anniversary of their signature race Kula Anela by adding a 16-mile course to the day.
Traditionally the final race of the Northern California Outrigger Canoe Association’s season, the event will be held August 23rd, at Horseshoe Cove. Public welcome. tamoutrigger.org
Re-use Cause It Feels Right
EDITED BY MIMI TOWLE
According to Kathryn Soter of Good Future Design Alliance, summer is the peak season for homeowners to purge or remodel, creating a high demand for donations, salvage and sourcing reclaimed materials.
Here is her list of salvage hubs in the Bay Area that support circular building and design.
BUILDING RESOURCES
SAN FRANCISCO
A nonprofit reuse center offering salvaged lumber, tile, sinks, windows and more for DIY projects. buildingresources.org
KK SWAPS
EDITED BY QUINN EDINGTON
THE REUSE PEOPLE OAKLAND
Accepts donations and salvages deconstruction materials; also offers consulting and tax-deductible receipts. thereusepeople.org
HARVEST ECOSALVAGE
MARIN
Eco-Salvage company focused on landfill diversion through full-service reuse operations. harvestecosalvage.org
REMOOV
SAN FRANCISCO
Clears out unwanted items and redistributes usable materials to donation centers, consignment or recycling. remoovit.com
Founded in 2023 by Tam High grads, Kirsi Harris and Kate Rosegard (now a rising third-year college student), KK Swaps has repurposed and donated over 100,000 articles of clothing and have partnered with organizations, including Athleta, Marin Foster Care, Mill Valley Community Center, Trashie and Blue Jeans Go Green. Harris and Rosegar accept used clothing donations and personally sort, advertise, merchandise and sell. This dynamic duo is not only committed to being part of the solution by promoting conscious consumption and empowering the next generation to make sustainable choices, they also aim to empower young women to start their own businesses. The next sale is scheduled for September — find them on instagram for the deets @kkswaps.
MAKE IT HOME
MARIN
Turns gently used furniture into complete home setups for individuals and families transitioning out of crisis. makeithome bayarea.org
NEXT HIGHEST GOOD
SAN FRANCISCO
Professional organizers specializing in zero waste through partnerships with dozens of donation, upcycling and recycling organizations to make sure nearly all the items you no longer need go to their next highest good. nexthighestgood.com
Repair Fair
Better than a barn building, this is a monthly community fix-it party. Volunteers and specialized repair professionals will be on hand to repair small items including lamps, small appliances, bad zippers or bikes. This month, head to The Lab at 101 Donahue Street in Marin City. Preregister your items. reusealliance.org
SHOPTOWNCENTER.COM
Joe Garbarino Green Business of the Year Award Nominees
and
Winners
Each year, the San Rafael Chamber of Commerce is proud to recognize local businesses with the Joe Garbarino Green Business of the Year Award. Nominations are divided into two categories- small businesses with fewer than 25 employees and large businesses with 25 or more employees. This award shines a light on companies that champion environmental sustainability in their business operations, mission, and values. In 2025, it is especially crucial to applaud these green businesses that remain committed to protecting our planet despite escalating economic uncertainty around the globe. Please join us in celebrating Pond Farm Brewing Company, small business category winner, and BioMarin Pharmaceutical, Inc., large business category winner. We’d also like to congratulate Red Rooster Brick Oven and California Film Institute for being nominated in their respective categories. The Joe Garbarino Green Business of the Year Award winners were first announced at the San Rafael Chamber of Commerce 2025 State of the City Awards Ceremony in May.
NEW IN TOWN
BY EMMA ROBERTSON Shop
Newly relocated in Sausalito from its original home in San Rafael, Silverwork Studios is a DIY jewelry studio perfect for stimulating the creative mind. Handcraft your family’s next heirloom ring or a charm bracelet of your own, just to name a couple of your options. 305 Caledonia St, Sausalito, silverworkstudios.com
Based in Mill Valley, sustainable luxury brand Stick & Ball has recently achieved B Corp certification in recognition of their high social and environmental standards. 177 E Blithedale Ave, Mill Valley, stickandball.com
— Eat & Drink —
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. 1016 Court St, San Rafael, humbowleats.com
Beauty & Wellness
Body Sculpt in Sausalito is the newest hub for all things anti-aging and body and face sculpting, to name just a couple of their treatment specialties — all using the latest technologies. 190 Donahue St, Ste 8, Sausalito, bodysculptmarin.com
Work & Play
The Marin JCC Preschool Mill Valley
Ready, Set, Stomp
Grab your stomping boots and your family on September 6 to partake in the Ember Stomp, a wildfire safety festival at the Marin Fairgrounds designed to help you feel prepared without the doomsday angst. Learn about the products and services out there that can help protect your home and family from wildfires, before making rounds at the various booths to watch live burn demonstrations and inquire about fire smart landscaping.
And don’t forget to also enjoy the kid zone, music, art, food and — our personal favorite — the heroic (and adorable) firefighting goats and sheep that keep tall
Campus has been officially open since May now and is already looking to the 2025–26 school year. Families enrolling here can expect intimate class sizes and a nurturing environment for their little ones. 36 Tiburon Blvd, Mill Valley, marinjcc.org
Pride month may be over, but the launch of Marin LGBTQ+ Center at the Marin Multicultural Center in San Rafael ensures a welcoming presence for the community year-round. 709 Fifth Ave, San Rafael, marinlgbtqcenter.org
Cherish your kid’s artwork in a new way by framing it or turning it into a custom keepsake book with San Rafael’s Kids Gallery. And to make things easy, you can do it from the comfort of your own home. Marin County, thekidsgallery.com
TRAIN SMARTER
Graduating today means stepping into a workforce being reshaped in real time by Artificial Intelligence. McKinsey Global Institute estimates that about 14% of the current global workforce (a whopping 375 million people), may be at risk of AI taking their job by 2030. This is only a mere five years away. AI isn’t a concept of the future — it’s a living, evolving tool that’s already changing how we work, learn and
For today’s grads, AI offers incredible promise — and undeniable challenges.
A Career Accelerator
AI is a superpower for young professionals. It automates repetitive tasks, summarizes dense data and opens creative doors faster than any technology before it. Graduates now have access to tools that allow them to build prototypes, analyze trends or draft content with unprecedented speed. Even more powerful is the democratization of opportunity. With AI-driven platforms, you don’t need a corporate title or fancy degree to make an impact. If you can learn quickly and ask the right questions, you can compete globally from day one. AI also personalizes learning. From resume writing to job simulations, the ability to adapt and upskill is right at your fingertips — and increasingly driven by intelligent systems that learn alongside you.
The Tradeoffs: Disruption and Doubt
But with great power comes real pressure. AI is disrupting hiring across numerous industries, creating anxiety for those just starting out. The challenge is that companies are reducing entry level positions and asking managers to fill that gap with AI tools. College recruiting in 2025 is at the lowest level in 35 years as a percentage of overall hiring. And finally, there’s the human factor. Over-reliance on AI may reduce the drive to develop emotional intelligence, creative problem-solving and the courage to lead with empathy.
A Future Shaped by Your Choices
To the class of today: AI doesn’t define your future — but like previous macro trends before it, it will impact your path. Use these tools to enhance your abilities, not replace them. Stay curious, keep learning and never forget the value of human judgment. Technology may set the pace, but it’s your integrity, adaptability and imagination that will determine where it takes you.
Presently a C-suite coach, Tiburon resident, Blair LaCorte has a particular interest in the topic as one of his three sons, just landed a job researching how companies will implement AI.
Coming back stronger never stops.
Sutter’s Novato Community Hospital is recognized as one of America’s 50 best hospitals for joint replacement and 100 best hospitals for orthopedic surgery. We never stop striving for excellence, and we use the latest innovations and minimally invasive procedures to help you feel better faster. sutterhealth.org/orthopedics
HELLO! MARIN
WE’VE GOT PERKS (AND AN APP)
A pint of ice cream from Fairfax Scoop, calamari appetizer at Nick’s Cove and free crystals are just some of the perks waiting for you on our new Marin Magazine app!
BABALOO BAKES Baker’s dozen special: every dozen cookie or cupcake order comes with one extra treat—our way of saying thank you, babaloobakes.square.site
BARCELINO Free solid color Silk Woven Scarf (your choice of color, value of $79) with purchase of $150 and up, barcelino.com
BODYBYBINAY FREE 15-minute nutrition consult with the purchase of 90-minute Marin County Farmer’s Market Tour, BodyByBinay.com
CLEAR DESIGN & BUILD Free 3-D renderings upon bathroom, kitchen or major area remodel, cleardesignbuild.com
CREEKSIDE PIZZA & TAPROOM Happy Hour Every Day, 7 Days a Week, 365 Days a Year, CreeksideSA.com
DALINI SKIN CARE SPA Complimentary SoundBed Session with a Personalized Facial, daliniskincarespa.com
DYNAMIC ENERGY CRYSTALS Get a free crystal when you spend $25 or more!, dynamicenergycrystals.com
EVA CLAIBORNE BEAUTY & WELLNESS
Purchase a Hydradermabrasion Treatment and receive a free AI-based DERMASENSOR FDA-approved skin cancer screening, tiburonskincare.com
FAIRFAX SCOOP Get a free pint with a purchase of 1 pint, IG: fairfaxscoop
FIREHOUSE COFFEE & TEA Get 15% off your Coffee or Tea order, firehousecoffeetea.com
FREUND FAMILY CHIROPRACTIC $50 Chiropractic Exam and X-rays ($300 value), freundfamilychiropractic.com
GINA RISSO PHOTOGRAPHYLet’s Be Real 10% your next session, letsberealphotography.com
GRAY RABBIT Free event delivery with purchase of $1k or more, grayrabbit.com
JOHANN PAUL FINE JEWELRY 10% off your purchase. Not applicable on repairs or watch batteries, theenloecreative.com
KATIE HANRAHAN PHOTOGRAPHY $100 off your first full newborn or full family session with Katie when booked in the next month, KatieHanrahanPhotography.com
OLGA TROFYMETS PHOTOGRAPHY 10% off full session, newborn session or event photography for first time customers only. olgatrofymets.com
MARIN COAST RANCH One free jerky with purchase of micro-beef share, marincoastranch.com
MARIN MEDICAL AESTHETICS
50% off your first medical facial or lymphatic drainage message with us, marinmedicalaesthetics.com
MILL VALLEY FLOWERS 10% off all Floral arrangements August only, millvalleyflowers.com
MOONSTRUCK FINE JEWELRY Enjoy 10% off and a complementary jewelry cleaning, moonstruckfinejewelry.com
Continued on page 124
Primary care that puts you first.
You don’t need to go far for great care. Sutter’s Novato Care Center is accepting new patients for preventive health, wellness support and on-site lab services. Experience personalized and same-day care close to home.
Plus, with Sutter’s free My Health Online app, you can book and manage appointments, join waitlists and so much more.
Scan to find your clinician or visit sutterhealth.org/find-doctor
101 Rowland Way, Suite 200, Novato 415-600-5400
Bay Area events you’ll want to attend
MARIN CASA’S RISING STARS 2025 GALA
Visit tinyurl.com/ marincasa for pricing, sponsorships $1,000+ tinyurl.com/marincasa, 415.785.3862 WHEN WHERE WHY YOU SHOULD GO COST FIND OUT MORE
Sept. 20, 5:00 - 10:00 p.m. Marin Art and Garden Center, Ross
The Rising Stars Gala is a magical evening celebrating hope and brighter futures. Enjoy inspiring stories, a delicious dinner, exciting auctions, and honor Assembly Member Damon Connolly. Join us to make a meaningful impact!
Friend us to share and view RSVP Hot Ticket photos at facebook.com/marinmagazine
Want to see all the images from our RSVP Hot Ticket events? marinmagazine.com/hotticket
SCIENCE FOR
BY ERIC VERDIN
The Secret to a Longer Life? It’s Not in a Bottle. It’s in a Conversation.
In the pace and pressure of our modern lives, it’s often the smallest, most human moments — like grabbing a coffee with a friend or catching up with a colleague in person — that quietly fall off our calendars. We prioritize work, errands, efficiency. But what if skipping those connections isn’t just a social loss, but a biological one?
We’ve long known that humans are inherently social beings — Aristotle said as much. But recent science has made this philosophical idea startlingly concrete: Our relationships don’t just shape our happiness; they shape our healthspan, our healthy years of life.
The landmark Harvard Study of Adult Development, which has followed individuals for over 80 years, shows one factor outshines all others in predicting health and well-being: meaningful human connection. Not wealth. Not IQ. Not fame. Connections. People with strong social ties live longer, are healthier and feel more fulfilled. And this isn’t an isolated finding. A meta-analysis of 148 studies concluded that strong social relationships improve survival by over 50% — a benefit that rivals quitting smoking and exceeds those of exercise or weight loss.
Yet today, it’s easier than ever to bypass real interaction. We can have dinner delivered, meetings run virtually, tasks completed without ever speaking to another person. And while these tools bring convenience, they also invite a subtle erosion of the very connections that sustain us.
Loneliness isn’t just unpleasant — it’s physiologically damaging. We now know it heightens inflammation, weakens
immunity and accelerates the biological processes of aging. It’s a risk factor for chronic disease on par with some of the lifestyle factors we work so hard to control.
The antidote isn’t complex. It’s connections. And it doesn’t require grand gestures. A walk with a neighbor. A shared meal. A few minutes of conversation on a park bench.
Of course, it’s not as easy making friends as an adult as it was when we were on the playground in elementary school. Fortunately, living in a beautiful place like Marin County — with access to nature, trails, parks and outdoor spaces — isn’t just good for your body, but it can be great for your social life too. Outdoor fitness classes, walking groups and shared recreational spaces all create low-pressure ways to meet new people and maintain friendships, all without needing to schedule a formal visit or drive long distances. When it’s easy and enjoyable to get outside, it’s easier to fit into our schedule, and to run into neighbors, strike up conversations or meet up with friends for a hike, a walk or just a nice long sit on a bench.
So revisit that coffee date. Join the walking group. Say yes to the community gathering. These small choices nourish more than your mood — they support your biology. And over time, they become the invisible scaffolding of a longer, better life.
At the Buck Institute, we talk often about living better, longer. Social connection is not a luxury in that equation. It’s essential.
Eric Verdin MD is President and CEO, Buck Institute.
The scoop on Bay Area events you’ll want to attend
ON
THE
ROAD
TO EQUITY
Sept 20, 6:00 -10:00 p.m.
Hosted at a World-Class Private Car Collection in San Rafael
Join us on the road to equity at one of Marin’s most exclusive private venues, featuring a world-class collection of over 100 classic cars. Enjoy red carpet photos, cocktails, plated dinner, and a powerful program supporting educational equity. Proceeds from the event will fund vital programs in the arts, literacy, technology and health in every Marin school district. Fund-aNeed donations will be designated to the SchoolsRule Equity in Education Fund.
Sept. 19, 5:30 – 9:30 p.m.
Bill and Adele Jonas Center, College of Marin, Novato
$300/per person one.bidpal.net/sbsrfts25 WHEN WHERE WHY YOU SHOULD GO COST FIND OUT MORE
Side by Side invites you to a night of Denim & Diamonds! Put on your best denim and add a touch of sparkle as we gather to support Side by Side’s essential behavioral and mental health services for nearly 1,800 youth and their families across Alameda, Marin, Napa, and Sonoma Counties. Enjoy cocktails, savor tasty cuisine, and dance to Pride & Joy. Let’s create unforgettable memories while making a meaningful impact!
$300 per ticket, Table sponsorships: $3000 schoolsrule.org, 415.491.6680 WHEN WHERE WHY YOU SHOULD GO COST FIND OUT MORE
2025 MILL VALLEY FALL ARTS FESTIVAL
Sept 20-21, 10 a.m. -5 p.m.
Old Mill Park, Mill Valley
$20 in advance; $25/door MVFAF.org WHEN WHERE WHY YOU SHOULD GO COST FIND OUT MORE
Where art and community meet under the redwoods. Enjoy a weekend of artistic expression, live performances, and family fun. Both days will feature 135 juried artists with fine arts available for purchase, from jewelry to ceramics & oil painting to textiles. Attendees can engage with a vibrant collection of art while enjoying lively entertainment and activities for all ages. Your ticket is good for both days so make a weekend of it!
Want to see all the images from our RSVP Hot Ticket events? Visit marinmagazine.com/arts-events/on-the-scene
From where to find the best pastries or gifts for the special people in your life, to the fan favorite Pilates studios or hair salons, we have over 800 Marin County businesses featured — all vetted by you and for you.
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
Best Art Gallery
READERS’ CHOICE:
Art Works Downtown
For the third year in a row, this artistic hub in downtown San Rafael has earned Readers’ Choice. This nonprofit has served Marin for over 25 years, and continues to prioritize making art visible and accessible for all. 1337 4th St, San Rafael, artworksdowntown.org
Rest of the Best
ÆRENA Gallery, Mill Valley
Anthony Meier, Mill Valley
Belvedere Tiburon Library Art Gallery, Tiburon
Julie Zener Gallery, San Anselmo
Robert Green Fine Arts, Mill Valley
Best Children’s Museum
READERS’ CHOICE:
Bay Area Discovery Museum
A perennial Readers’ Choice awardee, this hands-on museum of discovery has been igniting curiosity through exhibits, live music and summer camps since 1988. The iconic location under the Golden Gate Bridge ensures a memorable day for all ages. 557 McReynolds Rd, Sausalito, bayareadiscoverymuseum.org
Rest of the Best
Esporterz, Larkspur
Marin Museum of Bicycling, Fairfax Tiburon Railroad and Ferry Depot Museum, Tiburon
Best Comedy Venue
READERS’ CHOICE:
142 Throckmorton Theatre
As a prized member of the community and Reader’s Choice awardee for the past three years, they host a variety of workshops, dance classes and after-school programs in addition to the famous Tuesday night comedy, which has famously featured the greats including Robin Williams. 142 Throckmorton Ave, Mill Valley, throckmortontheatre.org
Rest of the Best
Improv Marin, San Rafael
Marin Art & Garden Center, Ross Trek Winery, Novato
Best Community Event
READERS’ CHOICE:
Marin County Fair
Another Readers’ Choice recipient to keep their streak going, they first appeared on the scene in 1925 and embody everything that a nostalgic summer should – pie contests, pig races and live music. Whether it’s your 50th fair experience or your first, you’ll get all the fair feels here. 10 Ave of the Flags, San Rafael, marinfair.org
Rest of the Best
Fairfax Festival, Fairfax
Mill Valley Fall Arts Festival, Mill Valley
Novato Art, Wine and Music Festival, Novato
San Anselmo Live on the Avenue, San Anselmo Sausalito Lighted Boat Parade & Fireworks, Sausalito
Best Community Theater
READERS’ CHOICE:
Mountain Play
As we wait to learn the fate of our beloved Mountain Play’s future, y’all still voted this historical and cultural gem set amongst the Redwoods, Readers’ Choice, again. Stay abreast of the status at mountainplay.org. 1556 4th St, San Rafael
Rest of the Best
142 Throckmorton Theatre, Mill Valley
Marin Theatre, Mill Valley
Tam Valley Players, Mill Valley Ross Valley Players, Ross
The Playhouse in San Anselmo, San Anselmo
Best Film Festival
READERS’ CHOICE:
Mill Valley Film Festival
Founded in 1978, this 11-day film extravaganza, which now hosts showings throughout Marin County has earned Readers’ Choice, again. MVFF, famously has a knack for screening upcoming Oscar winners, and another bonus are the artists Q&As. mvff.com
Rest of the Best
Italian Film Festival, San Rafael
Marin County International Festival of Short Film & Video, San Rafael
Bay Area Discovery Museum
Best Live Music Venue
READERS’ CHOICE:
Sweetwater Music Hall
Sweetwater Music Hall has been an integral part of the Mill Valley live music scene since its doors opened in 1972, which is proven by its consistent Readers’ Choice placement. 19 Corte Madera Ave, Mill Valley, sweetwatermusichall.com
Another consistent Readers’ Choice awardee, MarinMOCA offers everything from student exhibits to big, global names. It’s a gallery with a little bit of everything. 1210 5th Ave, San Rafael, marinmoca.org
Rest of the Best
Bolinas Museum, Bolinas
China Camp Museum, San Rafael
Marin History Museum, San Rafael Marin Museum of Bicycling, Fairfax Museum of the American Indian, Novato Novato History Museum, Novato
The Museum of International Propaganda, San Rafael Tiburon Railroad and Ferry Depot Museum, Tiburon
Best Music Festival
READERS’ CHOICE:
Mill Valley Music Festival
This Readers’ Choice music festival from 2023 is a two-day outdoor arts and culture event produced by the Mill Valley Chamber and Noise Pop Industries, which boasts a wide variety of musical genres; discover something new or endorse your existing faves. Friends Field, Mill Valley, millvalleymusicfest.com
Rest of the Best
Fairfax Festival, Fairfax Homestead Valley Music Festival, Mill Valley Sound Summit, Mill Valley
Best Outdoor Adventure
READERS’ CHOICE:
Angel Island – Tiburon Ferry
If you haven’t taken a ride with Captain Maggie and her salty (but sweet) crew, you’re in for a treat. She’s the fourth generation owner of this classic Marin adventure that shuttles locals and visitors back and forth from Tiburon to Ayala Cove on Angel Island. Or opt for the sunset cruise where you’ll tour the Tiburon and Sausalito coastline and go under the Golden Gate Bridge. 21 Main St, Tiburon, angelislandferry.com
Rest of the Best Mountain Play, Mill Valley
Outdoor Adventure Club, San Francisco
Point Reyes Adventure Co., Point Reyes Ranch Tour at Marin Coast Ranch, Tomales Red and White Fleet, San Francisco Seaplane Adventures, Mill Valley
DINE ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT SPONSOR
What is MarinArts?
MarinArts is a nonprofit organization that has been proudly promoting the arts and cultural events in Marin County for over ten years. We provide a FREE platform for arts organizations, artists, and venues to share their events through our online calendar.
Fun Fact: Our website is accessible in 11 languages—including Spanish, French, and Vietnamese—helping you connect with a wide and diverse audience.
How can artists and event organizers connect with MarinArts?
Be part of our vibrant community! Sign up for our newsletter, post your events, create an artist profile, and follow us on social media @marinartsorg. We also offer affordable ad options to help you promote your events and grow your organization’s visibility.
Look for us out and about—we’re the ones wearing festive hats!
Pictured: Susan Searway-Fertig, Sandra Grimshaw, Mary O’Mara
MarinArts
San Rafael, CA | 415.578.3856 marinarts.org
Mill Valley Music Festival
Esporterz
BEAUTY & WELLNESS
Best Barbershop
READERS’ CHOICE:
Corte Madera Barbershop
CMB provides an inviting and relaxing environment where men can unwind, enjoy a conversation with their favorite barber and get a great cut, all located in the Old Town Square neighborhood of Corte Madera. Stop by for personalized service from Steven, Josh and Joey and walk out feeling more confident than when you arrived. Corte Madera, cortemaderabarbershop.com
Rest of the Best
Barber Lane, Larkspur
Barbers Three Plus, Corte Madera
Brewer Phillips Hair Design, San Rafael
Drawing Room, Larkspur
Fairfax Barbershop, Fairfax
Henrix Barbershop, San Anselmo
LUI Mill Valley, Mill Valley
Shavery Barbershop, Mill Valley
The Shop, San Rafael Xclusive Club, San Rafael
Best Cosmetic Dermatologist
READERS’ CHOICE:
Zand Dermatology
Receiving another Readers’ Choice designation this year, Zand Dermatology offers a variety of skin care options. As a cosmetic dermatologist, Zand Dermatology offers a medical doctor’s services specializing in skin health and aesthetics, capable of diagnosing and treating various skin conditions while also providing cosmetic procedures. Dr. Sarv Zand offers a holistic approach to dermatology. 655 Redwood Hwy Frontage Rd, Ste 246, Mill Valley, zanddermatology.com
Rest of the Best
Aesthetic Dermatology & Skin Cancer, Mill Valley
Aesthetx, Greenbrae
California Skin Institute, Kentfield
Laub Dermatology & Aesthetics, Mill Valley Mill Valley Dermatology, Mill Valley Southern Marin Dermatology, Sausalito
Best Facial
READERS’ CHOICE:
Aesthetx
Aesthetx’s Marin location at the picturesque Drake’s Landing Road offers multiple cuttingedge procedures and treatments focused on the effects of biological aging. 300 Drakes Landing Road, Ste 100, Greenbrae, aesthetx.com
Rest of the Best
Alchemy Marin, San Rafael
Beauty Heroes, Novato
Belle Marin Aesthetic Medicine, Mill Valley
Cavallo Point, Sausalito
Dalini Skin Care Spa, San Rafael
Dawn Patrice Skincare, San Rafael
Eden Day Spa, San Anselmo
Ency Esthetics, Sausalito
Eva Claiborne Beauty & Wellness, Tiburon
Evo Spa, Mill Valley
Gloss Beauty, Larkspur
Glow Skin Marin, Larkspur
Hayes Valley Medical Esthetics, Larkspur
International Orange, Larkspur
Michele Holmes Studio, Corte Madera
ResonanceMarin, Corte Madera
Sieber Plastic Surgery, Greenbrae
SKIN By Jennifer Marie, San Rafael
SkinSpirit Marin, Mill Valley
Turning Point Spa, Mill Valley
Zand Dermatology, Mill Valley
Zoë Clark Wellness, San Rafael
Best Haircut/Salon Service
READERS’ CHOICE:
Aubree Hill – The Business of Beautiful
For the second year in a row, Aubree Hill of The Business of Beautiful takes top honors. Known for her deeply personalized approach and dedication to ethical, luxury hair extensions, Hill specializes in total transformations that prioritize confidence, integrity and connection. Mill Valley, exhalehousesalon.com
Rest of the Best
AP Luxe Salon, Mill Valley
Ash Hair Co., Mill Valley
Brewer Phillips Hair Design, San Rafael
Christopher Salon & Home, Tiburon
Cooper Alley, Corte Madera
David James, San Rafael
DiPietro Todd, Mill Valley
D&O Salon, Mill Valley
Endeavor Salon, Larkspur
Fox + Stone Collective, San Anselmo, Fairfax
J. Roland Salon, Sausalito
Magnolia Avenue Salon, Larkspur
Maison Maison Collective, San Rafael
MBS Salon, Mill Valley
Michele Holmes Studio, Corte Madera
Milváli Salon & Cosmetics, Mill Valley
Oyu Salon, Sausalito
Revery Salon, Mill Valley
Salon Elle, Mill Valley
Salon 96 Throckmorton, Mill Valley
Salon B, San Rafael
Sproos Hair Salon, San Anselmo
The Color Lounge, Fairfax
The Current Marin, San Anselmo
Best Integrative/Alternative Medicine
READERS’ CHOICE: Jyzen
In our first year of including integrative alternative medicine as a category, Jyzen decisively claimed the Readers’ Choice selection. Is it the cryotherapy, red light therapy beds, detox programs or the cutting-edge biohacks applied to nutrition and metabolism? You’ll have to see for yourself. 100 Shoreline Hwy, #210A, Mill Valley, jyzen.com
Rest of the Best
Balance — Women’s Health and Wellness of Marin, Mill Valley
East West Optimum Health, Mill Valley
Goldfinger Acupuncture, San Rafael
HEAL Marin, Greenbrae
On Point Acupuncture, Sausalito
Tao Natural Healing, San Rafael
Wellspring Acupuncture & Massage, Corte Madera
Best Massage
READERS’ CHOICE: Evo Spa
For the third year in a row, Evo Spa, located in Strawberry Village, earned Readers’ Choice. This spa and boutique offers the chance to unwind and relax amidst the stress of daily life, with monthly specials and wellness therapies such as the detox foot bath or far-infrared sauna. 800 Redwood Hwy, Ste 216, Mill Valley, evo-spa.com
Corte Madera Barbershop
Rest of the Best
Align Chiropractic Studio, Mill Valley
Almonte Spa, Mill Valley
Cavallo Point, Sausalito
Bodywise Massage, San Rafael
Eden Day Spa, San Anselmo
Golden Island Massage, San Rafael
HELLO MODERN, San Rafael
International Orange, Larkspur
ResonanceMarin, Corte Madera
Tinozzi Chiropractic Studio, Corte Madera
The Ritual Spa and Wellness, Sausalito
Turning Point Spa, Mill Valley
Wellspring Acupuncture, Corte Madera
Daniel Spain Massage + Bodywork, Novato
Best Massage Therapist
READERS’ CHOICE:
Alexa Mimeles
There’s a good massage, and then there’s a transformational therapeutic experience.
According to her clients, Alexa, is the latter, as she’s the first to earn Readers’ Choice as a best massage therapist. Mill Valley, alexamimeles.com
Rest of the Best
Kari Iverson, HELLO MODERN, San Rafael
Majestic Thai Spa, Novato
Nasrin Nahidi, Eden Day Spa, San Anselmo
Wellspring Marin, Corte Madera
Best Med Spa
READERS’ CHOICE:
Hayes Valley Medical Esthetics
Founded in 2014 by skincare expert Linda Behla, R.N., Hayes Valley Medical Esthetics is a boutique medical clinic and spa with a location in San Francisco, as well as Magnolia Street in downtown Larkspur. Behla shares her 20 years of proven clinical expertise in the medical and skincare industry with her clients. 265 Magnolia Ave, #201, Larkspur, hayesvalleymed.com
Rest of the Best
Aesthetx, Greenbrae
Alchemy Marin, San Rafael
Bare Skin Marin, Larkspur
Belle Marin Aesthetic Medicine, Mill Valley
Elevate Medical Aesthetics and Wellness, Mill Valley
Haus of Marin Medical Aesthetics, Corte Madera
Sieber Plastic Surgery, Greenbrae
SkinSpirit, Mill Valley
Skin Suite Marin, Mill Valley
Marin Medical Aesthetics, San Anselmo
Morpheus Medical Aesthetics, Larkspur
NorCal Plastic Surgery, Greenbrae
Plastic Surgery Specialty Group, Greenbrae
Best Nail Salon
READERS’ CHOICE:
Chloe Nails & Spa
With over a decade of business in Marin, owner Hanah is known for delivering designs her clients love. Whether you want something delicate or something much bolder, this salon will achieve your vision. Cheers to their second Readers’ Choice. 730 San Anselmo Ave, San Anselmo, chloenailssalon.com
Rest of the Best
Ace Nail Shop, Mill Valley
Alphora Nails, Sausalito
Annie’s Nails, San Rafael
Be Polished Nail Spa, Larkspur
Bella Rouge, Kentfield
Bloomingnail’s, Tiburon
Fairfax Nail Salon, Fairfax
Fingers and Toes, Faces and Places, Mill Valley
Hailey Nails and Spa, San Anselmo
Holly Nails, Mill Valley
Magnolia Nail Spa, Larkspur
Marlowe, Larkspur
Nails By Kim, San Rafael
Nail Motif, Mill Valley
NJ Nails Spa, Novato
Ooh La La Salon, Mill Valley
Passion Nail & Spa, San Rafael
Rosemary Spa, Mill Valley
Ross Nail Spa, Ross
Sausalito Nail Salon, Sausalito
Three Sisters Nails, San Rafael
Tiburon Nails, Tiburon
Top Coat Nail Spa, Mill Valley
Trio Salon, Mill Valley
Best Spa
READERS’ CHOICE:
Cavallo Point
It’s a hat trick (third win in a row) for this luxurious spa set amongst Eucalyptus trees. For many in the county a special occasion day at the spa means a visit to Cavalo Point’s Healing Arts Center & Spa, which offers everything from traditional spa treatments to integrative medicine. 601 Murray Circle, Fort Baker, Sausalito, cavallopoint.com
Rest of the Best
Casa Madrona, Sausalito
Eden Day Spa, San Anselmo
Evo Spa, Mill Valley
International Orange, Larkspur
ResonanceMarin, Corte Madera
Turning Point Spa, Mill Valley
DINE BEAUTY SPONSOR
If you had a free afternoon, what would your ideal spot be to recharge locally?
Sam’s on a sunny afternoon—surrounded by water, friends, and family—can’t be beat. The new chef and remodel make it feel like home. As the sun sets, I love happy hour at Michael Mina’s Bungalow Kitchen. Fun fact: Michael was actually the head chef at our wedding in 2007!
Tell us about the NorCal Plastic Surgery office expansion.
This fall, NorCal Plastic Surgery is moving to beautiful downtown Tiburon. The expanded space will help us better serve our patients, especially those traveling from out of town. Tiburon offers the perfect destination for a plastic surgery vacation—or staycation—with the full spectrum of aesthetic services under one roof.
A moment that reminded you why you do this work?
A patient undergoing cancer treatment came in for facial rejuvenation. Chemo had aged her so much, people mistook her husband for her son. After surgery, she hugged me and said, “I’m back.” Moments like that are why I love what I do.
NorCal Plastic Surgery | Greenbrae, CA 415.727.9666 | norcalsurgery.com
DINING
Best Al Fresco Dining
READERS’ CHOICE:
Hook Fish Co.
In Mill Valley, Al Fresco may require a fleece and warm beanie, but that doesn’t stop the legions of loyal locals from crowding into this family-friendly, yet still hip and local eatery. The menu hits all the fishy favs from ceviche, tacos, burritos to salads. 254 Shoreline Hwy, Mill Valley, hookfishco.com
Rest of the Best
Beso Bistro, Novato
Bungalow 44, Mill Valley
Cucina sa, San Anselmo
Depot Café, Mill Valley
Fish., Sausalito
Perry’s on Magnolia, Larkspur
Piatti, Mill Valley
Piazza D’Angelo, Mill Valley
Playa, Mill Valley
Poggio Trattoria, Sausalito
RH Marin, Corte Madera
Rustic Bakery Cafe, Larkspur, Novato
Salt & Pepper, Tiburon
Sam’s Anchor Cafe, Tiburon
Tam Commons, San Rafael
Tavola Rustica, Larkspur
The Junction, Mill Valley
The Trident, Sausalito
Valenti & Co., San Anselmo
Watershed, Mill Valley
Best Bakery
READERS’ CHOICE:
M.H. Bread and Butter
This year M.H. Bread and Butter pulled into Readers’ Choice position, thanks to their loyal following and flaky croissants. This San Ansemo-based bakery is
named for owner Nathan Yanko’s great grandfather
Maximillian Hirtreiter, who owned a patisserie in
New York City. 101 San Anselmo Ave, San Anselmo, mhbreadandbutter.com
Rest of the Best
Amélie Café and Wine Bar, Fairfax
Babloo Bakes, Greenbrae
Baked Blooms, San Rafael
Bob’s Donuts, Mill Valley
Bordenave’s Bakery, San Rafael
Brickmaiden Breads, Point Reyes
Cookies by Shannon, Kentfield
Creekside Bakery, Novato
Emporio Rulli, Larkspur
Fire Swamp Provisions, Multiple locations
Flour Chylde, Novato
Flour Craft Bakery, Mill Valley
Jane/Marin, Tiburon
Le Marais Bakery, Mill Valley
Madrona Bakery, Mill Valley
Mill Valley Baking Company, Mill Valley
Nothing Bundt Cakes, Corte Madera
Parkside Bakery, Stinson Beach
Ponsford’s Place Bakery & Innovation Center, San Rafael
Portside Bakery, Multiple locations
Red Hill Cake and Pastry, San Anselmo
Rustic Bakery, Larkspur
SusieCakes, Greenbrae
Upside, Mill Valley
Victoria Bakery, Greenbrae
Best Bar Dining
READERS’ CHOICE:
Perry’s on Magnolia
The multiple TVs playing all the games that matter, decades of menu-mastery and Marin’s finest coming and going; these just might be what has put Perry’s in the Readers’ Choice spot for the last few years. 234 Magnolia Ave, Larkspur, perryssf.com
Rest of the Best
Buckeye Roadhouse, Mill Valley
Corner Bar, Mill Valley
Finnegan’s Marin, Novato
Flatiron, San Rafael
Gravity Tavern, Mill Valley
Red Rooster Brick Oven, Mill Valley
The Burren House, San Rafael
Watershed, Mill Valley
Best Barbecue
READERS’ CHOICE:
Pig in a Pickle
When it comes to “good BBQ,” living in California means you need to listen to transplants moan and groan about how superior BBQ is from their home town. It’s annoying. So here’s a hack; bring them
to Pig in a Pickle and they’ll quiet down once they taste try this multiple-time Readers’ Choice winner. 341 Corte Madera Town Center, Corte Madera, piginapickle.com
Rest of the Best
Way Station, Fairfax
Forrest Fire BBQ, San Rafael
Kabbaq, San Rafael Belli Deli, Novato
Lone Mountain Barbecue, Novato
Best Breakfast
READERS’ CHOICE:
Half Day Cafe
Former owner Tory Mohahan’s parents opened this one room restaurant in 1986, and she took over in the ’90s where she figured out what the people wanted: really good food. Current owner Morad Elkamraoui, seems to be making a name for himself as well, earning this year’s Readers’ Choice. 848 College Ave, Ross, halfdaycafe.net
Rest of the Best Bacon, Novato Bayside Café, Sausalito Comforts, San Anselmo
Farm House Local, Larkspur
Fred’s Coffee Shop, Sausalito Garden Cafe, San Rafael Hilda’s, San Anselmo
Kitchen Sunnyside, Mill Valley
Le Marais Bakery, Mill Valley Lighthouse Café, Sausalito Marvin’s Breakfast Club, Novato
M.H. Bread and Butter, San Anselmo Miracle Mile Cafe, San Rafael
Ryan Scott 2go Boutique Food Trailer, San Anselmo
Salt & Pepper, Tiburon Shoreline Coffee Shop, Mill Valley
The Hummingbird, Fairfax
Best Breweries/Taprooms
READERS’ CHOICE: The Junction
Once again, our readers chose The Junction for not only owner Dev Fielder’s devotion to microproduced and local beers, but also for its massive outdoor space with fire pits and even a play structure for the kids. 226 CA-1, Mill Valley, thejunc.com
Rest of the Best
Adobe Creek, Novato
Best Day Brewing, Sausalito
Creekside Pizza and Taproom, San Anselmo Fairfax Brewing Co., Fairfax
Gott’s serves up many variations of the classic burger, from their new pineapple burger to their own rich rendition of a bacon cheeseburger, with toppings including American cheese, Zoe’s bacon, lettuce and pickles, all stacked on a toasted egg bun. 302 Bon Air Cir, Greenbrae, gotts.com
Rest of the Best
Buckeye Roadhouse, Mill Valley
Bungalow 44, Mill Valley
Floodwater, Mill Valley
Gravity Tavern, Mill Valley
Left Bank Brasserie, Larkspur
Marin Joe’s, Corte Madera
Monk’s Kettle, Terra Linda
M&G Burgers, Larkspur
Parkside Cafe, Stinson Beach
Perry’s on Magnolia, Larkspur
Phyllis’ Giant Burgers, San Rafael
Red Rooster Brick Oven, San Rafael
Shake Shack, Larkspur
Super Duper Burger, Mill Valley
The Hub, San Anselmo
The Joinery, Sausalito
Watershed, Mill Valley
Best Chinese
READERS’ CHOICE:
DJ’s Chinese Cuisine
DJ’s must have a loyal customer base to vote them Readers’ Choice for two years in a row. Hang out on their cozy back patio with a plate of their kung pao chicken or one of their complete dinner plates, customizable to the size of your party. 435 Magnolia Ave, Larkspur, djchinesecuisine.com
Rest of the Best
China Palace, Novato
Emma’s Restaurant, San Rafael
Harmony Restaurant, Mill Valley
Lam’s Kitchen, Mill Valley
Mamahuhu, Mill Valley
Ming’s, Tiburon
Ping’s Chinese Cuisine, San Rafael
Shang Hai Kitchen, Mill Valley
Tommy’s Wok, Sausalito
Yet Wah, San Rafael
Yu Shang Mandarin Cuisine and Sushi Bar, San Rafael
Best Coffee Shop
READERS’ CHOICE: Equator Coffees
Equator Coffees was founded in a Marin garage in 1995 by Helen Russell and Brooke McDonnell, who were and are famously committed to their LGBTQ+ roots, product quality, sustainability and fair trade. Proving you can have all of the above and a great tasting cup of coffee (or matcha), our readers have voted Equator their choice for many years in row. Multiple locations, equatorcoffees.com
Rest of the Best
Caffe Acri, Tiburon
Dr. Insomniac’s, Novato
Emporio Rulli, Larkspur
Firehouse Coffee, Sausalito
Fox + Kit, San Rafael
Longway, San Anselmo
Marin Coffee Roasters, San Anselmo, Novato
Peet’s, Multiple locations
Philz Coffee, Corte Madera
Pink Owl Coffee, San Rafael
Red Whale Coffee, San Rafael
The Coffee Roastery, San Anselmo
Upside, Mill Valley
Best Dive Bar
READERS’ CHOICE:
Silver Peso
While there are a handful of excellent dive bars throughout the county, the patrons of Silver Peso continuously vote for this hot spot on Magnolia as Readers’ Choice. Originally opened in 1905 as a blacksmith shop, it became the beloved bar just years later in the 1930s. 450 Magnolia, Larkspur, 415.924.3448
Rest of the Best
2 AM Club, Mill Valley
Matteucci’s, San Anselmo
No Name Bar, Sausalito
Papermill Creek Saloon, Forest Knolls
Pete’s 881 Club, San Rafael
Smiley’s Saloon, Bolinas
Smitty’s, Sausalito
DINE DINING SPONSOR
How can I arrange a tasting appointment?
We are open Thursday through Sunday from 10:30am – 5:00pm. We recommend making a reservation but we are happy to host walk-ins when we have availability for tastings until 3:30pm. Please visit rodneystrong.com/visit-us to see our tasting options and to make a reservation.
Where can I find a list of upcoming events at the winery?
Please visit rodneystrong.com/events for our upcoming events.
I’m looking for a wine country venue for an upcoming private event; could I host my event at Rodney Strong Vineyards? Absolutely! Please visit rodneystrong.com/ private-events for more information on our private events.
Rodney Strong | Healdsburg, CA 707.431.1533 | rodneystrong.com
The Baan Thai Cuisine
Best
Fine Dining
READERS’ CHOICE:
Madcap
Again, the Siegal family brings in the Readers’ Choice award. As one of the few restaurants in Marin to earn a Michelin nod, Madcap’s Chef Ron Siegel serves Japanese-inspired dishes, while his wife Kimberly runs the front of the house. 198 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, San Anselmo, madcapmarin.com
Rest of the Best
Buckeye Roadhouse, Mill Valley
Bungalow Kitchen, Tiburon Gravity Tavern, Mill Valley Guesthouse, Kentfield
Il Davide, San Rafael
Insalata’s, San Anselmo
La Gastronomia di Porchetta, Fairfax Left Bank Brasserie, Larkspur Luna Blu, Tiburon Restaurant Picco, Larkspur The Caprice, Tiburon
Best French
READERS’ CHOICE:
Le Garage
Ooh la la, les amis du Le Garage have voted this waterfront indoor/outdoor restaurant in Sausalito Readers’ Choice this year. Founded in 2008 by Bruno Denis and Olivier Souvestre, who transformed an auto shop into a restaurant with large garage doors that open on warm days, hence the name. 85 Liberty Ship Way, Sausalito, legaragesausalito.com
Rest of the Best
Amélie Café, Fairfax
Beso Bistro, Novato Left Bank Brasserie, Larkspur Le Marais Bakery, Mill Valley, Larkspur Petite Left Bank, Tiburon Suzette, Sausalito
Best Ice Cream
READERS’ CHOICE: Fairfax Scoop
Currently owned by Amine Bahi, this shop is famous for having the best organic ice cream, serving up unique flavors like spirulina and organic cookies; extra kudos for the sustainable practices like compostable containers and plastic-free packaging. 63 Broadway, Fairfax, IG@ fairfaxscoop
Rest of the Best
Angela’s Organic Ice Cream, Mill Valley Double Rainbow Cafe, San Rafael
Lappert’s Ice Cream, Sausalito
Mag’s Local Yogurt, Larkspur
Mill Valley Swirl, Mill Valley
Silbermann’s Ice Cream, San Rafael
The Shack, Larkspur
Best Indian
READERS’ CHOICE:
Lotus Cuisine of India
This long-standing establishment is family-run and not only delivers tasty Indian cuisine, but is also a certified green business with an energy-efficient kitchen and eco-friendly appliances. And they have a loyal fan base consistently voting them into the Readers’ Choice. 812 4th St, San Rafael, lotusrestaurant.com
Rest of the Best
Arti Cafe, Lagunitas
Avatar’s, Sausalito
Batika Indian Bistro, Novato
Cafe Lotus, Fairfax
Everest Curry and Momo House, San Rafael
Himalayan Kitchen, San Rafael
India Palace, Mill Valley
Little Goan Indian Cafe, Novato
Prabh Indian Kitchen, Mill Valley
Best Italian
READERS’ CHOICE:
Poggio Trattoria
Frequent flyer for Readers’ Choice, Sausalito-based Poggio has earned best Italian this year. Executive Chef Benjamin Balesteri has been at the helm for over 10 years and has a loyal local following. Pro tip: Start your meal with their famous negroni, opt for an outdoor table and enjoy. 777 Bridgeway, Sausalito, poggiotrattoria.com
Rest of the Best
Angelino Restaurant, Sausalito
Chianti Cucina, Novato
Cucina sa, San Anselmo
Fradelizio’s, Fairfax
Il Davide, San Rafael
La Gastronomia di Porchetta, Fairfax
La Ginestra, Mill Valley
La Toscana, San Rafael
Piatti, Mill Valley
Piazza D’Angelo, Mill Valley
Red Rooster Brick Oven, San Rafael
Servino Ristorante, Belvedere
Sorella Caffé, Fairfax
Valenti & Co., San Anselmo
Via Piccola Trattoria, Tiburon
Best Latin American
READERS’ CHOICE:
Sol Food
What started as a Farmers’ Market vendor in 2003 by Sol Hernandez has become the go-to “need it now” country fav. Sol Food is a well-recognized name in the Bay Area for their authentic, flavorful Puerto Rican cuisine. Despite not selling alcohol, there’s often a line out the door. Multiple locations, solfoodrestaurant.com
Rest of the Best
Ayawaska Hilltop, Novato
Cocina Antigua, Novato
Best Mexican
READERS’ CHOICE:
Playa
Is it Chef Michael Seigel’s tasty new menu pairing farm-to-table with innovative Mexican cuisine? Or perhaps the Kill Bill margarita? Or the cool indoor/ outdoor Coastal California vibe? Regardless, their patrons keep voting them Readers’ Choice. 41 Throckmorton Ave, Mill Valley, playamv.com
Rest of the Best
Cantina, Mill Valley
Carmen’s La Hacienda, Novato
Celia’s Mexican Restaurant, San Rafael
Copita Tequileria y Comida, Sausalito
Flores, Corte Madera
Joe’s Taco Lounge, Mill Valley
Kito’s Taco Shop, Corte Madera
Lucinda’s, Mill Valley
Mamita’s, Novato
Marinitas, San Anselmo
Mi Pueblo, Multiple locations
Picante, San Rafael
Sabor a Mexico, San Rafael
Taco Jane’s Restaurant & Bar, San Anselmo
Arti Cafe
Best Middle Eastern/Mediterranean
READERS’ CHOICE:
Insalata’s
There is more than one reason San Anselmo’s Insalata’s has been a community favorite for over 25 years. There is a menu full of reasons, created by award-winning chef Heidi Krahling with comforting Mediterranean fare. 120 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, San Anselmo, insalatas.com
Rest of the Best
Julie’s Hummus Bar, San Rafael Kababbq Grill & Cafe, San Rafael
Best Pizza
READERS’ CHOICE:
Creekside Pizza & Taproom
They’re known for their artisan pizzas, hearty sandwiches and flavorful pastas. Visit their copper bar for one of the 40 options of craft beer, wine and kombucha on tap. 638 San Anselmo Ave, San Anselmo, creeksidesa.com
Rest of the Best
Bar Bocce, Sausalito
Boca Pizzeria, Multiple locations
Farmshop, Larkspur
Lo Coco’s Authentic Italian Pizza, San Rafael Mulberry Street Pizza, San Rafael
Oliver’s Pizzeria, San Rafael Pizzalina, San Anselmo
PizzaHacker @ The Junction, Mill Valley Pizzeria Picco, Larkspur
Poggio Trattoria, Sausalito
Red Boy Pizza, Novato
Red Rooster Brick Oven, San Rafael Sandrino, Sausalito
Squared Pizza, Greenbrae
Stefano’s Pizza, Multiple locations
Tamalpie, Mill Valley Watershed, Mill Valley
Best Ramen
READERS’ CHOICE:
Uchiwa Ramen
As Marin’s first ramen-centric spot years prior, Uchiwa serves the classics with a strong local reputation. Owner Kevin Fong says the tonkatsu — a cloudy, slow-simmered pork bone broth — remains his most popular menu item. 821 B St, San Rafael, uchiwaramen.com
Rest of the Best Chonmage, San Rafael
Masa’s Sushi, Novato
Menya Shono, San Rafael
Best Sandwiches
READERS’ CHOICE:
Michael’s Sourdough Sandwiches
As the name implies, their sourdough bread — from
their own starter — makes for some of Marin’s favorite sandwiches many years in a row. Multiple locations, michaelssourdough.com
Rest of the Best
Andy’s Local Market, San Rafael
Antone’s East Coast Sub Shop, Mill Valley
Belly Deli, San Rafael
Dave’s Hot Chicken, Novato
Davey Jones Deli, Sausalito
Hog Island Oyster Co., Marshall
Italian Delite, Novato
Mill Valley Market, Mill Valley
Red Rooster Brick Oven, San Rafael
Scotty’s Market, San Rafael
Woodlands Market, San Rafael
Best Seafood
READERS’ CHOICE: Fish.
Famously sustainability-minded, this bayfront restaurant (with views of Clipper Marina and Mt. Tam) is a popular place to bring visitors. The menu changes daily, however they keep their all-stars like crab louis salad or fish tacos for the locals. 350 Harbor Dr, Sausalito, 331fish.com
Rest of the Best
Barrel House Tavern, Sausalito
Hog Island Oyster Co., Marshall
Hook Fish Co., Mill Valley
Scoma’s of Sausalito, Sausalito
The Trident, Sausalito
Tony’s Seafood, Marshall
Best Steakhouse
READERS’ CHOICE: Buckeye Roadhouse
Open since the ’30s, Buckeye Roadhouse serves Californian cuisine, with menu items like their famous Oysters Bingo or the chili-lime “brick” chicken. 15 Shoreline Hwy, Mill Valley, buckeyeroadhouse.com
Rest of the Best
Gravity Tavern, Mill Valley
Marin Joe’s, Corte Madera
San Rafael Joe’s, San Rafael
Best Sushi
READERS’ CHOICE:
Sushi Ran
Find some of the Bay Area’s best sushi at Sushi Ran, with an extensive sushi menu and wine and sake options to wash everything down. 107 Caledonia St, Sausalito, sushiran.com
Rest of the Best
MaruJun, San Rafael
Masa’s Sushi, Novato
Oyama Sushi, Greenbrae
Robata Grill & Sushi, Mill Valley
Samurai Sushi, Mill Valley
Shiro Kuma, Sushi
Sushi Ko, Larkspur
Sushi Tri, Novato
Kamikaze, San Rafael
Keiko Fish, Larkspur
Kuro Nami Japanese Kitchen, San Anselmo
Taki, Novato
Village Sake, Fairfax
Best Thai
READERS’ CHOICE:
R’Noh Thai Restaurant
This creekside gem has been popular with locals for dine in or take out since opening in 2000.
The menu offers all the usual favorites, but the lunch specials bring people back again and again. 1000 Magnolia Ave, Larkspur, rnohthai.com
Rest of the Best
Arawan Thai Cuisine, Sausalito
Bay Thai Cuisine, San Rafael, San Rafael
Kitti’s Place, Sausalito
Laos Kitchen, San Rafael
My Thai, San Rafael, Fairfax
Royal Thai Restaurant, San Rafael Thai Smile, San Rafael
ThaiTanic Streetfood, Sausalito
The Baan Thai Cuisine, San Anselmo Thep Lela, Mill Valley
Best Vegan/ Vegetarian
READERS’ CHOICE:
Cafe del Soul
Everything on the menu is vegetarian to start, but are easy to turn vegan. And, this cafe is organic and GMO-free. Multiple locations, cafedelsoul.net
Rest of the Best
Active Culture Café, Novato
Amy’s Drive Thru, Corte Madera
Urban Remedy, Mill Valley
Best Wine Bar
READERS’ CHOICE: Voyage
Find options like wine by the glass, low- or no-ABV drinks and more. Also order something from the Sam’s Sonoran menu, like the chile verde pork or the loaded nachos. 500 San Anselmo Ave, San Anselmo, voyagebar.com
Rest of the Best
Internos Beer and Wine Bar, Larkspur
Mantra Wines, Novato
Mog Asu Wine Bar, Tiburon
Squalo Vino, Tiburon
Zinz Wine Bar, Corte Madera
FITNESS
Best Fitness Class
READERS’ CHOICE:
F45 Training
F45 Training, founded in 2011 in Sydney by Rob Deutsch and Adam Gilchrist, is now an Austinbased global fitness franchise (1,600+ studios across 60+ countries). Owned by F45 Training Holdings with Tom Dowd as CEO and Mark Wahlberg as CBO, it offers 45-minute functional HIIT circuit workouts, Pilates hybrids, recovery tools, tech integration and nutrition support so you really get your sweat in. Multiple locations, f45training.com
Rest of the Best
Bianca Buresh, Body By Buresh
BodyByBinay, Mill Valley
BODYROK, Corte Madera
Cue the Core, San Rafael
Club Evexia, Mill Valley CrossFit Novato, Novato Fit Club for Women, Corte Madera
FITLAB Strong, Fairfax
Get Fit Marin, Corte Madera
Heather Leigh Fit for Life, San Rafael Hot Yoga Republic, San Rafael
Internal Fire Pilates, Mill Valley
Just B Fitness, Mill Valley NOW Power Yoga, Corte Madera Orangetheory, Greenbrae, Mill Valley, Novato Pilates ProWorks, Corte Madera Pure Barre, Multiple locations
Skaar Fitness, Larkspur
The Dailey Method, Larkspur and Fairfax
The Power with Grace, San Rafael
The Yard at Tam Junction, Mill Valley
Best Gym
READERS’ CHOICE: Club Evexia
For the second year in a row readers chose Club Evexia as their fav! As Southern Marin’s premier wellness destination, Club Evexia offers elite trainers, cutting-edge classes and a welcoming community. It’s a modern approach to fitness, performance and total well-being for every lifestyle. 100 Shoreline Blvd, Mill Valley, clubevexia.com
Rest of the Best
Bay Club Marin – Corte Madera, Corte Madera Bay Club Marin – Rolling Hills, Novato
Body Kinetics, San Rafael, Novato Fit Club for Women, Corte Madera
FITLAB Strong, Fairfax
FITNESS SF, Corte Madera
Five Points Fitness, Corte Madera, Novato
Heather Leigh Fit for Life, San Rafael
Osher Marin JCC, San Rafael
Skaar Fitness, Larkspur
Strength Den, Mill Valley
The Club at Harbor Point, Mill Valley
The Yard at Tam Junction, Mill Valley
TJ’s Gym, Corte Madera
YMCA, San Rafael
Best Health & Wellness Coach
READERS’ CHOICE:
Leigh Claxton
Currently director of group fitness at Club Evexia, Claxton is a Bay Area fitness professional with 30+ years in exercise physiology, yoga, Pilates, cycling and personal training. She also owns and runs OnBoardSUP, pioneering paddleboard yoga in Sausalito and Richardson Bay, blending balance training with mindful movement. Mill Valley, onboardsup.com
Rest of the Best
Bianca Buresh, Body By Buresh
Binay Curtis
Bria Ruben, Mill Valley
Evan Coleman, The Bay Fitness
Heather Leigh Fit for Life, San Rafael
John Hoeber, Body Kinetics, San Rafael, Novato
Kathleen McDonough Physical Therapy, San Anselmo
Lori Holscher, San Rafael, Mill Valley
Skaar Fitness Training Studio, Larkspur
Susan Ezra, Fairfax
The Power with Grace, San Rafael
Best Personal Trainer
READERS’ CHOICE:
Binay Curtis, BodyByBinay
Binay Curtis, founder of BodyByBinay, offers in-person and virtual HIIT, yoga and sculpt classes (live and on-demand), 1:1 and group training, personalized nutrition programs — including her signature Reboot — curated “Bounty Bags” and even a new app. Her clients have voted her Readers’ Choice again. bodybybinay.com
Rest of the Best
Bianca Buresh, Body By Buresh
David Rubiano, Rubiano Fitness, Mill Valley
Denzel Allen, Strength Den, Mill Valley
Francine Hoffman, Fit Club for Women, Corte Madera
Heather Leigh Fit for Life, San Rafael
Jake and JT Peterson, Mill Valley
Jeff Marth, Club Evexia, Mill Valley
John Hoeber, Body Kinetics, San Rafael
Jordan Assadi, Club Evexia, Mill Valley
Kat Blari, Club Evexia, Mill Valley
Kyle Mastropole, The Bay Fitness, Multiple locations
Marie Holman, Fitness SF, Corte Madera
Riley Sutton, FITLAB Fairfax, Fairfax
Sara Swanson, F45, Corte Madera
Sarah Hester, The Studio Marin, San Rafael
Sharon Gallagher-Rivera, Internal Fire Pilates, Mill Valley
Skaar Fitness, Larkspur
Best Pilates Studio
READERS’ CHOICE:
Hot Yoga Republic
Hot Yoga Republic has been vetted as the Readers’ Choices before. Co - founded and privately owned by Jessica Smith and Kathryn
Hot Yoga Republic
Keown since 2018, they’ve since expanded to Mill Valley and offer hot yoga, hot Pilates and Power Yoga with memberships, drop - ins, student pricing, virtual events, corporate retreats — all with a caring community ethos. Multiple locations, hotyogarepublic.com
Rest of the Best BODYROK, Corte Madera
Body Kinetics, San Rafael, Novato Club Pilates, Novato
Cue the Core, San Rafael
FitWise Pilates, Mill Valley
Internal Fire Pilates, Mill Valley
Mighty Pilates, Larkspur Novato Pilates, Novato
Pilates Evolution, Mill Valley Pilates of Marin, Corte Madera Pilates ProWorks, Corte Madera
The Studio Marin, San Rafael X’Core, San Anselmo
Best Spin Studio
READERS’ CHOICE:
SoulCycle Marin
SoulCycle Marin opened in Larkspur’s Marin Country Mart in June 2013 as part of Equinoxowned SoulCycle. It’s a candlelit, 45 - minute full - body indoor cycling “cardio dance party” led by motivational coaches and music. Consistently ranked as the Readers’ Choice, they offer themed rides, lockers, showers, towels and student and drop - in pricing. 1601 Larkspur Landing, Larkspur, soul-cycle.com
Rest of the Best
Body Kinetics, San Rafael, Novato
FITLAB Strong, Fairfax
Best Yoga Studio
READERS’ CHOICE:
Metta Yoga
Metta Yoga, founded in 2017 by Amy Greywitt in Corte Madera and later expanded to San Rafael and Cloudbreak Yoga in Sausalito, is a boutique, community-focused studio. Owned by Amy Greywitt, Temple Schauble and Carla Herzenberg, it offers diverse yoga — vinyasa, candlelight yin, aerial, Ashtanga — plus teacher training, retreats and events. Multiple locations, mettayogastudio.com
Rest of the Best
Cloudbreak Yoga by Metta Yoga, Sausalito
Hot Yoga Republic, San Rafael
Love Story Yoga, Larkspur
NOW Power Yoga, Corte Madera
Padma Studio, Fairfax
Red Dragon Yoga, San Rafael, Mill Valley
The Studio Mill Valley, Mill Valley
FITNESS & SPORTS SPONSOR
Club Evexia is a luxury fitness, wellness and social club in Southern Marin. Set on the water overlooking beautiful Richardson Bay, the club offers top-ofthe-line fitness equipment, over 70 group classes a week, Pilates Reformers, and amazing social gatherings and events that promote connection and community.
What makes Club Evexia so unique?
So many things set Club Evexia apart from other clubs. The world-class setting, the friendly staff, the fully engaged owner operators, the attention to detail and cleanliness, the best equipment, the best trainers and instructors and the only club that is 21 and over with a membership cap.
What do members love most about Club Evexia?
You just have to look at our over 85 Five Star reviews on Google to realize all the things members love about Club Evexia. The energy, the vibe, the community, the staff, the views, the connections they make, the lack of crowds, the classes and the instructors.
Club Evexia | Mill Valley, CA 415.729.0046 | ClubEvexia.com
Club Evexia
Binay Curtis
HOME & DESIGN
Best Architect
READERS’ CHOICE:
John Clarke Architects
Once again the clients of John Clarke Architects have voted them Readers’ Choice. JCA has been around since 2003, offering both residential and commercial services. 4000 Bridgeway, Sausalito, jcarchs.com
Rest of the Best
361 Architecture, San Francisco
CDG Architecture, San Rafael
Chambers & Chambers, Mill Valley
Crome Architecture, San Rafael
Daniel Macdonald AIA Architects, Novato
Dorman Associates, Mill Valley
Frei Design, Larkspur
Holscher Architecture, Belvedere
JMJ Studios, Larkspur
Justine Rob Interiors, Mill Valley
Kirley Architects, Larkspur
Lincoln Lighthill Architect, Mill Valley
Michael Rex Architects, Sausalito
Polsky Perlstein Architects, Larkspur
Rossington Architecture, Sausalito
Sutton Suzuki Architects, Mill Valley
Tyreus Design Studio, Sausalito
Wade Design Architects, San Anselmo
Best Builder
READERS’ CHOICE:
Nestadu
If you’re looking to join the Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) trend, Nestadu is one of the Bay Area’s premier ADU pros. Their commitment to quality and thoughtful design ensures each unit elevates while integrating seamlessly. 100 Shoreline Hwy, Mill Valley, nestadu.com
Rest of the Best
Cameron Lontz, Novato
Cook Construction, San Rafael
Clear Design & Build, San Rafael
Diego Brothers, Inc., San Rafael
Hadley General Contractors Inc., Tiburon
Kasten Builders, Richmond
Lamperti Contracting & Design, San Rafael
Larkspur Builders Inc., San Francisco
New Dimension, Mill Valley
Stroub Construction, Sausalito
Summit Professional Builders, Kentfield
Best
Flooring
READERS’ CHOICE: City Carpets
Founded in 1993 by Marin natives Leigh and Hossein Bakhtiari, this showroom offers carpet, hardwood, luxury vinyl, waterproof options, custom area rugs, professional installations and eco‑friendly materials. 555 Francisco Blvd, San Rafael, city-carpets.com
Rest of the Best
Architectural Design Carpets, San Rafael
Fl Flooring and Design, San Rafael
Floortex Design, Greenbrae
Ken’s Carpets & Flooring, San Rafael
Rafael Floors, San Rafael
The Floor Store, San Rafael
Best Home Building Resources
READERS’ CHOICE:
Alfresco Heating
For over 30 years, Alfresco Heating has provided the best price, guidance, installation and repair services on patio heaters, making them the Readers’ Choice to provide “outdoor warmth, all year round.” 30 Pamaron Way, Ste A, Novato alfresco-heating.com
Rest of the Best
Gilmans Kitchens and Baths, San Rafael
McLeran Roofing, San Rafael
Scott Henderson Structural Engineering, San Anselmo
SDI Insulation/Fireplace, San Rafael
Shiny Shed Collective, Mill Valley
Best Home Organization
READERS’ CHOICE:
The Balanced Abode
They specialize in relocation management, meaning they’re the team to turn to when you’re in need of help with unpacking, decluttering or donating. thebalancedabode.org
Rest of the Best
Adrienne Adler Home Organizing, San Anselmo
California Space Organizers, San Rafael
Case & Space, Sausalito
Changing Places, San Rafael
Love Living Lighter (Carrie Albrechten), Mill Valley
Neatly Bay, San Anselmo
Nicole Moore, Let Nicole Do It
Organized by Sumi, Sausalito
Organize It SF, Novato
Sort Marin, Mill Valley
The Art of Organization, San Rafael
Best Interior Designer
READERS’ CHOICE:
Pamela Lastiri Interior Design Studios
This design studio delivers high‑end residential and commercial design, including ADUs, custom millwork, sourcing, space planning, installations and project management. Sausalito, pamelalastiri.com
Rest of the Best
Ann Lowengart Interiors, San Anselmo
Barbra Bright Interiors, San Rafael
California Daydreams, Larkspur
Collected Studio, Tiburon
Heydt Designs, Inc., Muir Beach
Holly A Kopman Design, Mill Valley
Julie Rootes Interiors, Corte Madera
Justine Rob Interiors, Mill Valley
Kimberly Rider Interiors, San Rafael
Kirsten Pike Design
Kress Jack at Home, Mill Valley
Lark + Palm Interiors, Sausalito
Maison Barbara, Mill Valley
Maison Blanc Design, San Francisco
MAS Interior Design, Tiburon
Paulina Perrault Interior Design, Sausalito
Robert Federighi Design, Novato
Ruth Livingston Studio, Tiburon
Saffron + Poe, Mill Valley
Shirley Parks Design, Sausalito
Shiny Shed Collective, Mill Valley
Stacey Lapuk Interiors, Petaluma
The Scale Collective, Tiburon
We Design Interiors, Fairfax
Yami Arvelo of Moones Home, Novato
Best Kitchen and Bath Design
READERS’ CHOICE:
Lamperti Contracting & Design
This business was founded in 1965 by Al Lamperti, and has been owned and operated by Sean and Jennifer Kelly since 2005. It has evolved into a luxury design‑build firm specializing in kitchens, bathrooms, custom cabinetry and whole‑home remodels. 1241
Andersen Dr, San Rafael, lampertikitchens.com
Rest of the Best
California Daydreams, Larkspur
Heydt Designs, Inc., Muir Beach
Kitchens Inside Out, Multiple locations
Kress Jack at Home, Mill Valley
Novato Kitchens and Baths, Novato
Pamela Lastiri Interior Design, Sausalito
Paulina Perrault Interiors, Sausalito
Saffron + Poe, Mill Valley
Sandra Bird Design, San Anselmo
Spacial Design, San Anselmo
Best Landscape Design
READERS’ CHOICE:
Yardzen
Founded in 2018, this VC‑backed online landscape design and build platform offers AI enabled custom outdoor designs, delivered digitally and connected to vetted local contractors. 700 E. Blithdale, Mill Valley, yardzen.com
Rest of the Best
Christian Douglas Design, San Anselmo
Gardeners’ Guild Inc., Multiple locations Green 17 Design, Mill Valley
Integrated Design Studio, Mill Valley MK Bradley Gardens, Mill Valley
Best Lighting
READERS’ CHOICE:
Divine Electric and Plumbing
They offer a number of different packages for each job, to ensure that you are paying for exactly what you need, extra bells and whistles optional. San Rafael, divineelectricandplumbing.com
Rest of the Best
Artistic Lighting & Electric, Novato
Boyd Lighting, Sausalito
Best Nursery
READERS’ CHOICE:
West End Nursery
Run by the Untermann family for four generations, it offers drought resistant and edible plants, pottery, BBQ gear, garden accessories and a renowned Christmas House. 1938 Fifth Ave, San Rafael, westendnursery.com
Rest of the Best
Green Jeans Garden Supply, Mill Valley Ground, Belvedere-Tiburon
Home Grown Habitats, Novato
Sloat Garden Center, Multiple locations
SummerWinds Nursery, Novato
Best Movers
READERS’ CHOICE:
Earl Farnsworth Express
This family owned moving and storage company has been in business for over 50 years, and can help through your entire moving process. 2111 Francisco Blvd, San Rafael, farnsworthexpress.com
Rest of the Best
Ahmed’s Moving, San Rafael
A&P Moving, Novato
Birch Circle Movers, San Rafael
Johnson & Daly Moving and Storage, San Rafael Movers of Marin, Mill Valley Moving Mountain, Novato
Best Painter
READERS’ CHOICE:
Kunst Painting Inc.
Kunst Painting is trusted in the community, offering both residential and commercial services. Multiple locations, kunstpainting.com
Rest of the Best
E&C Painting, Mill Valley
Karoll Julian, San Anselmo
Marin Color Service, San Rafael
Pierpont Painting, Corte Madera
Ross Painting, San Rafael
Best Plumbers
READERS’ CHOICE: Ongaro & Sons
Ongaro & Sons dates back to when it was founded in 1932 by Ernest V. Ongaro. The name lives on today with the family’s third and fourth generations. 11 Ross Ave, San Anselmo, ongaroandsons.com
Rest of the Best
Burkell Plumbing, Sausalito
Amesos Plumbing, San Rafael
Benjamin Franklin, Novato
Dan’s Plumbing and Sewer Service, San Rafael
Gotelli Plumbing Company, San Rafael
Mason Plumbing, San Rafael
Roto-Rooter, Novato
West Coast Plumbing, Santa Rosa
Best Solar Service
READERS’ CHOICE: SolarCraft
Founded in 1984 by Bill Stewart and Dennis Nuttman, it’s a fully employee‑owned firm. Services include solar electric, batteries, heat‑pump HVAC, design, permitting and maintenance. 8 Digital Dr, Novato, solarcraft.com
Rest of the Best
Pac Solar Corporation, San Rafael
SonoMarin Solar & Electric, San Rafael
Sun First Solar, San Rafael
Sunterra Solar, Novato
Best Tile Showroom
READERS’ CHOICE: Heath Ceramics
With a knowledgeable staff of over 30 people, Heath Ceramics has been a Sausalito staple since 1959. Visit their Marin showroom to see their work and visualize how it’ll look in your own home. 400 Gate 5 Rd, Sausalito, heathceramics.com
Rest of the Best
Ceramic Tile Design, San Rafael
Clé Tile, San Rafael
Italics Tile & Stone, San Rafael
North Coast Tile & Stone, Santa Rosa
Tile Fever, Sausalito
HOMEDINE & DESIGN SPONSOR
What makes SDI Insulation and SDI Fireplaces unique?
We are proudly family-owned and operated since 1977! SDI Insulation and SDI Fireplaces are full-service insulation, fireplace, and home performance contractors. Energy efficiency is our passion, and we strive to stay at the forefront of advancements in sustainable building technology, codes, and building science. We are dedicated to meeting our customers’ needs; our project managers will assist you in finding the best solution for your project and budget.
Do I have to be a contractor to hire SDI?
No, you do not need to be a contractor to hire SDI. We are fully licensed and insured. While we value our contractor partners, both divisions work directly with homeowners as well.
Where do you provide services?
We service the entire Bay Area, including South Bay, North Bay, East Bay, Sonoma County, and beyond! Our team will come to you! You may also visit us at one of our two insulation offices and fireplace showrooms located in San Rafael and Burlingame.
SDI Insulation and SDI Fireplaces San Rafael, CA | 650.685.5500 sdi-insulation.com
PHILANTHROPY
Best
Animal Care
READERS’ CHOICE:
Marin Humane
Marin Humane was founded in 1907 and is now known as an independent nonprofit. They care for 10,000+ animals each year, and they’re not new to the Readers’ Choice standing. 171 Bel Marin Keys Blvd, Novato, marinhumane.org
Rest of the Best
Cat Clinic, Mill Valley
The Marine Mammal Center, Sausalito WildCare, San Rafael
Best Annual Gala
READERS’ CHOICE:
St. Vincent de Paul Society
Celebrating 79 years of serving the Marin community through the “Pennies from Heaven” gala, St. Vincent de Paul Society of Marin will be hosting again this October at the Meadow Club in Fairfax. Expect fine wine tastings, gourmet dining, auctions and sponsorship tiers. 820 B St, San Rafael, vinnies.org
Rest of the Best
By the Bay Health Black & Gold Gala, San Rafael
10,000 Degrees ONE Amazing Community Gala, San Rafael Edible Garden, Marin Art & Garden Center, Ross Lifehouse Agency: Great Chefs & Wineries, San Rafael Marin CASA Rising Stars Gala, San Rafael Marin General Hospital Foundation Gala, Greenbrae Narada Michael Walden Foundation: The Spring Fling, Novato
Side by Side: Reach for the Stars Gala, San Anselmo Stepping Out to Celebrate Life, San Rafael
Best Arts Nonprofit
READERS’ CHOICE:
ICB Arts Association
Founded in the 1950s, this thriving collective of 100+ Bay Area artists hosts open‑studio events — including Winter and Spring sessions — offering classes, workshops, commissions and gallery‑quality works in diverse media. 480 Gate 5 Rd, Sausalito, icbart.com
Rest of the Best
Art Works Downtown, San Rafael Headlands Center for the Arts, Sausalito MarinArts, San Rafael Marin Society of Artists, San Rafael
Best Community Services
READERS’ CHOICE:
Postpartum Support Center
Founded in 2019 by a mother recovering from postpartum depression herself, they’re Marin’s only community based nonprofit focused on maternal mental health. They provide free peer counseling, support groups and lots more. 4162 Redwood Hwy, San Rafael, postpartumsc.org
Rest of the Best
By the Bay Health, Larkspur
Center for Domestic Peace, San Rafael
Community Action Marin, San Rafael
Little Wishes, San Anselmo
Marin Community Clincs, Multiple locations
Marin Search and Rescue, San Rafael
North Marin Community Services, Novato
Ritter Center, San Rafael
St. Vincent de Paul Society, San Rafael
Best Disability Care
READERS’ CHOICE:
Lifehouse Agency
Lifehouse is widely recognized as the leading provider of care for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Marin County, with a long standing commitment to person centered support. For over 70 years, it’s been guided by its mission to improve the quality of life for people with developmental disabilities in our community by providing a lifetime of compassionate support in an atmosphere of respect, inspiration and purpose. 18 Professional Center Pkwy, San Rafael, lifehouseagency.org
Rest of the Best
Cedars, San Anselmo
Halleck Creek Ranch, Nicasio
Schurig Center for Brain Injury Recovery, Larkspur
Best Educational Nonprofit
READERS’ CHOICE:
10,000 Degrees
With a priority on equity focused scholarships, 10,000 Degrees supports thousands of students on their educational journey across the Bay Area. 1401 Los Gamos Dr, San Rafael, Marin City, Sausalito, 10000degrees.org
Rest of the Best
Bridge the Gap, Sausalito
Enriching Lives Through Music, San Rafael
Marin CASA, San Rafael
Marin Girls Chorus, San Rafael
Next Generation Scholars, San Rafael
Parent Services Project, San Rafael
RISE Scholars, Novato
SchoolsRule-Marin, San Rafael
ScreenSense / Marin Kids IRL, Mill Valley
Slide Ranch, Muir Beach
Best Elder Services
READERS’ CHOICE:
Vivalon
Vivalon has been committed to supporting Marin’s older adults and people with disabilities for the past 70+ years, with their Whistlestop program that provides rides and their Meals On Wheels food delivery service, among others. 999 Third St, San Rafael, vivalon.org
Rest of the Best
By the Bay Health, Larkspur
Homeward Bound, Novato
LilyPad Senior Assisted Living Advisors, Novato
Marin Home Care, Tiburon
Senior Helpers, San Rafael
SonoMarin Senior Fitness, Marin and Sonoma Counties
St. Vincent de Paul Society, San Rafael
Best Environmental Nonprofit
READERS’ CHOICE:
Marin Agricultural Land Trust
Marin Agricultural Land Trust has protected over 55,000 acres of Marin farmland with their coalition of ranchers, farmers and environmentalists, and they only plan to grow this number. 145 A St, Point Reyes Station, malt.org
Rest of the Best
Conservation Corps North Bay, San Rafael
Friends of China Camp, San Rafael
Friends of Corte Madera, Corte Madera
Richardson Bay Audubon Center & Sanctuary, Tiburon
10,000 Degrees
Best Family Services
READERS’ CHOICE:
Canal Alliance
Since 1982, Canal Alliance has partnered with Latino immigrants and their families to best meet their needs and support their goals — from putting food on the table to learning English. 91 Larkspur St, San Rafael, canalalliance.org
Rest of the Best
Adopt a Family, San Rafael
Gilead House, Novato
Make It Home, San Rafael
Marin CASA, San Rafael
Marin Foster Care Association, San Rafael
North Bay Children’s Center, Novato
Postpartum Support Center, San Rafael Sparkle Foundation, Novato
Best Food Insecurity Nonprofit
READERS’ CHOICE:
San Francisco-Marin Food Bank
They provide groceries to over 53,000 households each week. They offer homedelivered groceries, a mobile food pantry, neighborhood pantries and more. 2550 Kerner Blvd, San Rafael, sfmfoodbank.org
Rest of the Best
Community Action Marin, San Rafael
ExtraFood, Kentfield
North Marin Community Services, Novato
St. Vincent de Paul Society, San Rafael
Best Fundraising Event
READERS’ CHOICE:
By the Bay Health Events
Originally Hospice by the Bay founded in 1975, By the Bay Health became a comprehensive nonprofit last renamed in 2021. It provides hospice, palliative, pediatric and skilled home healthcare, grief
support and professional education. Its signature
Black & Gold Gala celebrates five decades, funding its Pathways to Care Careers initiative. bythebayhealth.org
Rest of the Best
Adopt a Family of Marin, Valentine Boutique & Luncheon
Center for Domestic Peace: In Celebration of Mothers, San Rafael
10,000 Degrees ONE Amazing Community Gala
Halleck Creek Ranch Buckles and Bling Annual Gala, Nicasio
Marin Community Clinics Golf Tournament at Meadow Club, Fairfax
Marin Community Clinics Summer Solstice Fundraiser, Novato
Marin Valentine’s Day Ball Benefiting Side by Side, San Anselmo
SchoolsRule, San Rafael
St. Vincent de Paul Society: Pennies From Heaven, San Rafael
Walk for Moms, Postpartum Support Center
Best Youth Services
READERS’ CHOICE:
Play Marin
Play Marin provides all kinds of opportunities for kids and teens. They have a robust sports program, after-school program, summer camp and other fun services available. Multiple locations, playmarin.org
Rest of the Best
Esporterz, Larkspur
Kids Cooking for Life, Larkspur
Next Generation Scholars, San Rafael
Pacific Pediatric Neuro-Oncology Consortium, San Rafael
Side by Side, San Anselmo
PHILANTHROPY SPONSOR
This planet can only prosper when we all prosper. But we need to come together, as a community, to effect change.
Join us. Get involved. Let's shake things up.
MCF is the philanthropic engine of the County. We partner with more than 560 individuals and families who are committed to solving the toughest challenges the community faces, using expertise, connections, and resources.
What issues are you working on?
In Marin, we’re partnering with local government and nonprofits on eliminating homelessness, creating more affordable housing, and ensuring our communities are resilient to the effects of climate change.
What’s exciting and new in philanthropy? Beyond grantmaking, you can provide seed capital to high potential organizations with our Venture Impact Program. Leverage the MCF Loan Fund to support capital campaigns. Or use Pooled Funds to collaborate with donors who share a specific passion.
How can Marinites get involved?
MCF makes charitable giving easier and more cost effective. You can open a donor-advised fund using virtually any type of asset, enjoy maximum tax advantages and access a savvy team of advisors. Or open a legacy fund and create a deeply personal philanthropic legacy through your estate.
Marin Community Foundation Novato, CA | 415.464.2500 | marincf.org
Great Chefs & Wineries
SERVICES
Best Auto Repair
READERS’ CHOICE:
D and K Collision Center
Trust that your car will be in good hands at D and K Collision Repair Center, a family-owned auto body shop in San Rafael that’s been open since 2006. Aside from collision repair of course they also have frame straightening, paintless dent removal, glass replacement, all backed by lifetime warranties. 50 Woodland Ave, San Rafael, dandkcollisionrepair.com
Rest of the Best
Carroceria Collision, Novato
Easy Automative, San Rafael
G&C Auto Body, San Rafael
Japan Auto Repair, San Rafael
Masters European and Japanese Auto Repair, Mill Valley
Mellow Motors, Greenbrae
R&S Service, Tiburon
Robin’s Auto Services, Greenbrae
Steve’s Auto Care, Novato
Best Caterers & Food Delivery
READERS’ CHOICE:
Jessie & Laurent
Jessie & Laurent started in 1981 by the namesake couple, and though ownership switched in 2019, they’re still a trusted service and repeated Readers’ Choice. They have weekly chefprepared gourmet meals — vegetarian, vegan, dairy- and wheat-free options available — and their menu changes weekly. 1945 San Francisco Blvd, San Rafael, jessieandlaurent.com
Rest of the Best CaterMarin, San Rafael
Chef Jayne Reichert, Sausalito
Classic Culinaire, Novato
Dee’s Organic Catering, San Rafael
Erin Shallat Catering, Multiple locations
Lynda Balslev, Sausalito
Sage Catering, San Rafael
Stacy Scott Catering, San Rafael
With Thyme Provisions, Multiple locations
Best Chiropractor
READERS’ CHOICE:
Dr. Alex L. Brown, DC
With over 14 years’ experience, Dr. Alex L. Brown, DC is a dedicated chiropractor known for his compassionate care, innovative techniques and commitment to whole-body wellness. He’s helped countless patients achieve pain relief, mobility
and long-term health through personalized, hands-on treatment. 100 Shoreline Blvd, Mill Valley, clubevexia.com
Rest of the Best
Align Chiropractic, Mill Valley
Cafe of Life, Mill Valley
DeSalvo Chiropractic, Novato
Dr. Chappy Wood, Corte Madera
Freund Family Chiropractic, Mill Valley
Rina Tinozzi, Corte Madera
Ron Solari, Kentfield
TOPO Chiropractic, Novato
Best Florist
READERS’ CHOICE:
The Little Flower Shop
The Little Flower Shop was originally founded by Sachi in Larkspur in 2018, and relocated to its still-current San Anselmo location in 2021. This independent, female-owned boutique florist offers custom floral designs, houseplants, curated gifts, classes, corporate and wedding/event services and more. 14 Ross Ave, San Anselmo, thelittleflowershop.co
Rest of the Best
Bloomingayles, Mill Valley
Floralounge, San Rafael
Gray Rabbit, Nicasio
Green Door Design, Mill Valley
Ladybug Flowers, Sausalito
Mill Valley Flowers, Mill Valley
Morning Glory Florist, Novato Passion Flowers, Mill Valley
Yukiko’s Floral Design Studio, Kentfield
Best Funeral Home
READERS’ CHOICE:
Fernwood Cemetery and Funeral Home
Fernwood’s history dates back as early as the 1800s and is one of the country’s first environmentally conscious cemeteries. They have natural burial, traditional burial, cremation, memorial services and even a green burial, all of which has helped them earn a continued Readers’ Choice designation. 301 Tennessee Valley Rd, Mill Valley, fernwood.com
Rest of the Best
Keaton’s Mortuary, San Rafael
Monte’s Chapel of the Hills, San Anselmo Valley Memorial Park Cemetery & Funeral Home, Novato
Best Jewelry Repair
READERS’ CHOICE:
Gold Rush Jewelers
Gold Rush Jewelers has been a name in San Rafael since 1979 thanks to owner Rick Lewis, and remains a family - run North Bay staple with four locations. Multiple locations, goldrushjewelers.com
Marin Family Photography
Rest of the Best
California Girl Fine Jewelry, San Rafael
Deleuse Jewelers, Fairfax
Julianna’s Fine Jewelry, Corte Madera
Sofia Jewelry, Mill Valley
Best Photographer
READERS’ CHOICE:
The Enloe Creative
When asked, David Enloe says he creates honest, artful photographs of families, maternity and newborns. His sessions are relaxed, thoughtful and rooted in connection and since he’s based in West Marin, David brings deep local knowledge and a calm, creative presence. Lagunitas, theenloecreative.com
Rest of the Best
Amelia Plumb Photography
Alyssa Patino
Cameron Cressman Photography, Mill Valley
Creative Portraiture, Fairfax
Emilie Bers Photography
Gina Risso Photography, Sausalito
Jamie Diger Photography, San Anselmo
Jamie Grenough Photography, Mill Valley
Jennifer Skinner Portraits, San Rafael
Katie Hanrahan Photography
Laura Reoch September Days, San Rafael
Marin Family Photography, San Rafael
Maya Rose Weddings, Novato
Mini Anna Photography, Mill Valley
Neptune Bangdel Photography
Olga Trofymets Photography, Larkspur
Scott Ellison Photography, Mill Valley
SF Portraits by Jason Todd Photography
Taryn Beller Photography, Mill Valley
Valeria Ferrando Photography
Best Tutoring
READERS’ CHOICE:
Sage Educators
Sage Educators is a locally owned tutoring and test-prep service serving Mill Valley, Larkspur, and San Anselmo. Founded in 2007 to address personalized academic support, they offer customized one - on - one tutoring, ACT/SAT prep and summer programs, emphasizing tailored instruction for K–12 and college-bound students. Multiple locations, sageeducators.com
Rest of the Best
Alexander Tutoring, Multiple locations
Amy Abbett Tutoring, Tiburon
Headlands Preparatory School, Sausalito
Karen Gee, Thinkcap Consulting, Mill Valley
Learn with Alyssa, San Rafael
LifeWorks Learning Center, Mill Valley
Tutors of Marin, San Rafael
SERVICES SPONSOR
This award-winning, WASC-accredited, middle and high school has a long history of helping students succeed through individualized learning. From highly gifted students to those with learning differences, Headlands meets students where they are to maximize their learning. Executive Director Kristie Moore-Arauz shares their approach:
Please describe your curriculum. Our curriculum is designed around the concept of mastery learning and our “acquire-practice-apply” method, in which students acquire content and skills, practice them in a meaningful way and apply them for long-term learning.
How does your school support individual students’ learning needs?
The one-to-one model enables teachers to engage unique student interests and provides them with the opportunity to develop and articulate their own thoughts, interests and opinions.
What extracurricular activities do you offer?
Headlands facilitates international and local group service trips as well as student lunch clubs in which students explore shared interests, such as leadership, yearbook, social justice, board games and more.
Headlands Prep School | Sausalito, CA 415.944.2254 | headlandsprep.com
SHOPPING
Best Bike Shop
READERS’ CHOICE:
Mike’s Bikes
Find your new set of wheels at Mike’s Bikes, which has been in Marin since its founding in 1964 and is a continued Readers’ Choice. They’ve evolved throughout Northern California with 12+ brick‑and‑mortar locations and a nationwide online store. Multiple locations, mikesbikes.com
Rest of the Best Bicycle Brüstop, Novato Solstice Bike Works, San Rafael Splitrock Tap & Wheel, Fairfax Sunshine Bicycle Center, Fairfax Tam Bikes, Mill Valley Village Peddler, Larkspur
Best Bookstore
READERS’ CHOICE:
Book Passage
Founded in 1976 by Elaine Petrocell, Book Passage is nationally known as a model for independent bookstores, and their fourth year in a row as Readers’ Choice speaks to this. They also have gifts, writing classes, author events and more. 51 Tamal Vista Blvd, Corte Madera, bookpassage.com
Rest of the Best
Buteo Books, San Rafael Copperfield’s, Multiple locations Point Reyes Books, Point Reyes Station Sausalito Books by the Bay, Sausalito Sugarfoot Books, San Anselmo The Depot Cafe and Bookstore, Mill Valley Town Books, San Anselmo
Best Bridal Shop
READERS’ CHOICE: Lea Couture
This bespoke design studio led by Lea herself since the 1980s offers custom wedding, event and casual garments, with multiple Readers’ Choice accolades. Find hand‑dyed silks, wools, cottons and eco‑sustainable fabrics. 237 San Anselmo Ave, San Anselmo, leacouture.com
Rest of the Best
Studio REN, online Sylvia Bentcheva Couture, Larkspur
Best Cannabis Delivery/Dispensary
READERS’ CHOICE: Nice Guys Delivery
This locally owned, licensed cannabis delivery service has been around since 2015 and is a repeated Readers’ Choice with its selection of edibles, CBD, drinks and more. They emphasize discreet, compliance driven delivery. 1241 Andersen Dr, San Rafael, niceguysdelivery.com
Rest of the Best
Firefly Marin, San Rafael
Marin Alliance, Fairfax Marin Gardens, San Rafael
Moonflower Cannabis Delivery
ONA.life,
Best Consignment/Thrift Store
READERS’ CHOICE:
Stella’s Fine Consignments
From designer clothing and handbags to shoes, they offer a curated, boutique‑style shop with 50/50 consignor splits. Currently owned by Laura Psaila, Stella’s supports recycling and emerging artists, earning Marin’s Readers’ Choice accolade for a few years now. 224 Greenfield Ave, Ste 3, San Anselmo, stellasfineconsignments.com
Rest of the Best
Bloom, San Rafael
Curate Marin, San Anselmo
Encore Consignment, San Rafael
Fine Estate Inc., San Rafael
Golden Gate Estate Sales, Sausalito
Hospice Hodgepodge, Multiple locations
Marin Humane Thrift Shop, San Anselmo
Sax, San Anselmo
SeeSaw Children’s Consignment Shop, San Anselmo
Swan Dive, Corte Madera
The RealReal, Larkspur
Tivoli Decor, Sausalito
Willow Grove Consignment, Sausalito
Best Eyewear
READERS’ CHOICE:
Wink Optics
Wink Optics has been providing personalized exams and a wide range of frames since the 1980s. They’re big on indie brands and are also happy to help with repairs. Mill Valley, San Anselmo, winkoptics.com
Rest of the Best
20/20 Optical, San Rafael
Luxton Optical, Greenbrae
Marin Eye Care, Novato
Marin Optometry, Mill Valley
Rims & Goggles, Mill Valley
Sausalito Optometry, Sausalito
Best Gifts
READERS’ CHOICE: Folio
They’re a boutique stationery and gift shop that’s made Readers’ Choice before, and has been owned by Alexandra Beritzhoff since its opening in 1996. Get all the makings for a gift basket from their selection of candles, jewelry and more, and grab one of their humorous cards on the way out. 483 Magnolia Ave, Larkspur, folioinvites.com
Rest of the Best
Dynamic Energy Crystals, Sausalito
Flourish, Tiburon
Hook House, Sausalito
Jolt!, San Anselmo
Maker’s Market, Mill Valley
Poet and/the Bench, Mill Valley
Sprig Home & Garden, San Rafael
Wild Fennel, Novato
Best Home Furnishings/Accessories
READERS’ CHOICE:
Sunrise Home
Sunrise straddles the line between small and artsy, polished and branded. The 30,300 square foot showroom contains the usual gorgeous stock from Ralph Lauren and American Leather right next to Annie B designs made exclusively for Sunrise. 831 B St, San Rafael, sunrisehome.com
Rest of the Best
Buttercup Home, Novato
Hudson Grace, Larkspur
Main St. Mercantile, Tiburon
McConnell Design Studio, Greenbrae
Restoration Hardware, Corte Madera
Saffron + Poe, Mill Valley
SALT, Sausalito
SLEEP365® & Naturepedic Organic Mattress Gallery, San Rafael
Sprig Home & Garden, San Rafael
Summer House, Mill Valley
The Painter’s Place, Larkspur
Best Jewelry
READERS’ CHOICE:
Sofia Jewelry
Sofia is best known for custom designs and upcycling old pieces. They also offer quality repairs. 80 Throckmorton, Mill Valley, sofia jewelry.com
Rest of the Best
Alix & Company, Mill Valley
Ashley Morgan Designs, Ross
California Girl Fine Jewelry, San Rafael
Cast, Corte Madera
Johann Paul Fine Jewelry, Greenbrae
Julianna’s Fine Jewelry, Corte Madera
Lulu Designs Jewelry, Mill Valley
Moonstruck Fine Jewelry, Mill Valley Poet and/the Bench, Mill Valley
Prince Estate Jewelry, Sausalito
Stephan-Hill Jewelry Designers, San Rafael
Best Kids’ Clothing
READERS’ CHOICE:
SeeSaw Children’s Consignment Shop
SeeSaw is a one-stop shop for any children’s clothing, no matter what your budget is. They also offer books, toys and art supplies. San Anselmo, seesaw4kids.com
Rest of the Best Poppy Store, Larkspur
Sprout, Mill Valley Village Child, Novato
Best Men’s Clothing
READERS’ CHOICE:
Gene Hiller Menswear
Relocated to Sausalito in 1959, it remains a family - rooted boutique. It’s not their first rodeo as a Readers’ Choice, and they specialize in luxury men’s apparel with formalwear, casualwear, accessories and more. 729 Bridgeway, Sausalito, genehiller.com
Rest of the Best
Famous4 Emporium, Mill Valley Fez, Mill Valley
Louis Thomas Fine Men’s Apparel, Corte Madera Main St. Mercantile, Tiburon
Pladra, Mill Valley
SONAS, Fairfax
Best Pet Store
READERS’ CHOICE:
Woodlands Pet Food & Treats
This pet-first spot has been around since 2006 with multiple years won as the Readers’ Choice, offering organic and specialty dog and cat food, toys, self-service pet washes, puppy training, vet clinics and monthly adoption events. 701 Strawberry Village, Mill Valley, woodlands.pet/mill-valley
Rest of the Best
Best Friends Pet Supplies, Sausalito
Brownie’s Pet Boutique, Larkspur
Dogville, San Anselmo
Pet Club, Corte Madera
Pet Cottage, San Anselmo
Pet Pro, San Rafael and Mill Valley
Pet Food Express, Mill Valley
Best Surf Shop
READERS’ CHOICE: Proof Lab
This repeated Readers’ Choice was founded in 2004 by Marin locals Will Hutchinson and Nate McCarthy, and began as just a 600 sq ft surf/skate shop. They have it all now — 500+ surfboards, wetsuits, an indoor skate bowl, a café, pottery studios, plant nursery and lots more. 244 Shoreline Hwy, Mill Valley, prooflab.com
Rest of the Best
101 Surf Sports, San Rafael
Live Water Surf Shop, Stinson Beach
OCN Culture, San Anselmo
Point Reyes Surf Shop, Point Reyes Station
Best Toy Store
READERS’ CHOICE: Five Little Monkeys
Despite the brightly colored advertising, don’t be fooled into thinking that the store is only for ages 10 and below, as it offers some games that are sure to be fun for a higher age range as well. Multiple locatiopns, 5littlemonkeys.com
Rest of the Best
A Child’s Delight, Corte Madera
Fairfax Variety, Fairfax
Games People Play, Sausalito
Toy Crazy, Larkspur
Tantrum, Mill Valley
Best Women’s Clothing
READERS’ CHOICE:
Main St. Mercantile
Located on Main Street in Tiburon, Main St.
Mercantile offers a nostalgic retail experience inspired by that of an original general store. 16 Main St, Tiburon, mainstmercantile.com
Rest of the Best
Bella, San Anselmo
Barcelino Per Donna, Sausalito
Citrine, Larkspur
Shop ELI, Mill Valley
Fiorla, Tiburon
Margaret O’Leary, Mill Valley
Nicolette, Larkspur
Rebecca Bruce, Sausalito
Shunzi, San Rafael
Surf + Sand, Mill Valley
The Edit, Mill Valley
The Store, Mill Valley
Viva Diva Boutique, Corte Madera
SHOPPING SPONSOR
Belle Marin is the creation of Dr. Faye Jamali, a physician who is committed to providing you with the highest level of treatments and care possible. Dr. Jamali’s self-described style — “minimalism with a touch of luxury” — is at the heart of every treatment. Her goal is to deliver superb results without complicated recovery times and cumbersome surgical risks.
Dr. Jamali has proudly called Mill Valley home for 15 years since moving from San Francisco. Belle Marin, founded in 2018, reflects her commitment to serving her local community with exceptional care and services.
At Belle Marin, we cherish and prioritize every individual who walks through our doors. Our commitment extends to embracing diverse journeys in personal aesthetics, regardless of whether you’re a seasoned enthusiast or stepping into the world of treatments for the first time. We approach each patient with open arms and without judgment, meeting them exactly where they are.
Belle Marin Aesthetic Medicine Mill Valley, CA | 415.887.8718 bellemarin.com
BEST OF 2025 READERS CHOICE WINNERS
BUCKEYE ROADHOUSE
Thank you for naming us “Best Steakhouse” in Marin! It’s been our privilege serving Bay Area diners for 30+ years. We hope you join us soon for oysters bingo, a juicy steak, and a classic martini!
15 Shoreline Highway, Mill Valley, CA 415.331.2600 buckeyeroadhouse.com
STELLA’S FINE CONSIGNMENT
For 25 years, Stella’s consignment shop has been a San Anselmo staple — fun, organized, and constantly refreshed with unique items, local designs. New merchandise arrives daily. “We are so grateful to be here. Keep recycling. Thank you community!”
224 Greenfield Avenue, San Anselmo, CA 415.453.6191 stellasfineconsignments.com
Best Painters
KUNST PAINTING, INC.
Since 1901, the Kunst legacy has been rooted in trust, honesty, and craftsmanship. What began as a family paint manufacturing and retail business in San Francisco evolved into a respected painting company after WWII. Now in our fifth generation, we proudly serve Marin, Napa, and Sonoma counties with expert residential and commercial painting services. Our team of 30+ skilled painters shares our commitment to quality, safety, and service. We also take pride in supporting our employees and their families, believing this foundation enables us to consistently deliver exceptional results — and carry our legacy forward with integrity.
112 Mitchell Blvd, San Rafael, CA 415.457.0100 kunstpainting.com
BEST OF 2025 READERS CHOICE WINNERS
POGGIO TRATTORIA
THANK YOU to the readers of Marin Magazine for voting Poggio Trattoria “Best Italian”! Since 2003, our goal at Poggio is to be a neighborhood restaurant serving delicious Italian food in a warm, comfortable surroundings by friendly and kind hospitality professionals. Chef Ben Balesteri sources ingredients from local purveyors and highlights these quality products in the daily changing menus that feature soulful classics of Northern Italy including a variety of antipasti, house-made pastas, spit-roasted meats, and wood-fired pizzas complemented by a wine list that offers the very best of Italian and California varietals and a cocktail program that features the classics with a twist. Chef Ben often catches the fresh fish served at Poggio with daily specials that include line-caught tuna, cod, petrale sole and halibut. 777 Bridgeway, Sausalito, CA 415.332.7771 poggiotrattoria.com
Best Italian
BEST OF 2025 READERS CHOICE WINNERS
10,000 DEGREES
Thank you, Marin, for voting us Best Educational Nonprofit, as well as nominating us Best Annual Gala and Best Fundraising Event. For 44 years, 10,000 Degrees has worked with over 60,000 students and awarded more than $105 million in scholarships, helping students from low-income backgrounds get to, through, and beyond college.
1401 Los Gamos Drive, Suite 205, San Rafael, CA 415.459.4240 10000degrees.org
MICHAEL’S SOURDOUGH SANDWICHES
Michael’s Sourdough Sandwiches opened 35 years ago in San Rafael and 28 years ago in Novato. It is a family run business and we are proud to be part of such a vibrant community. We are thankful for our loyal customers, who support Marin’s original sourdough spot. Many thanks!
999 Andersen Drive, #165 San Rafael, CA 415.485.0964
42 Digital Drive, #8 Novato, CA 415.883.5110 michaelssourdough.com
Ice Cream / Frozen Yogurt
FAIRFAX SCOOP
Dear community,
We’re so honored and grateful to have received your vote for Best of Marin 2025! At Fairfax Scoop, we strive to create a joyous experience where every visit feels like a celebration to enjoy delicious, homemade ice cream crafted with locally sourced when possible, organic ingredients, and served with a waste-free promise that reflects our care for the planet.
As a family-owned shop nestled in the heart of Fairfax, this award is a tribute to our incredible team and the community that’s cheered us on, cone after cone. Thank you for letting us be part of your story. We’ll keep scooping with love, joy, and purpose.
63 Broadway Blvd, Fairfax, CA 415.453.3130 IG@fairfaxscoop
BEST OF 2025 READERS CHOICE WINNERS
Best
Cosmetic Dermatologist
ZAND DERMATOLOGY
At Zand Dermatology, we’re enhancing beauty, confidence, and well-being at every stage of life. Our luxury practice offers expert Botox, filler, non-surgical facelifts, and advanced care for skin cancer, acne, and menopause. Sisters Dr. Sarv Zand and Dr. Paula Zand bring artistry, intelligence, and deep emotional connection to every patient. Dr. Zand believes in a ‘less is more’ approach to beauty. Oscar-nominated actress Naomi Watts, pictured above, chose Dr. Zand as Dermatologist Advisor for her beauty brand Stripes. With degrees from Harvard+MIT, Johns Hopkins, and UC Davis, we are educators who prioritize trust, listening, and natural results. Thank you for voting us Best Cosmetic Dermatologist (2022, 2024, 2025) and Best Dermatologist (MarinIJ 2024, 2025)!
NEW TO MARIN: A Surgery-Free, Scarless Skin Cancer Treatment. In addition to Mohs Surgery, we now offer Image-Guided Superficial Radiation Therapy (IG-SRT) — a non-invasive treatment for skin cancer that delivers ultrasound-guided precision, high cure rates, and no downtime. Covered by Medicare for eligible patients. 655 Redwood Highway Frontage Road, Suite 246, Mill Valley, CA 415.301.5000 zanddermatology.com
BEST OF 2025 READERS CHOICE WINNERS
PLAYA
Thank you for naming Playa “Best Mexican Restaurant” in Marin two years in a row! We’ve been proud to serve Marin for over 9 years. We look forward to hosting you soon for tacos, carnitas, ceviche, and our famous Kill Bill Margarita. Let’s keep the fiesta going! 41 Throckmorton Avenue, Mill Valley, CA 415.384.8871 playamv.com
POSTPARTUM SUPPORT CENTER
Postpartum Support Center offers free, culturally responsive support for families navigating pregnancy, postpartum, and early parenting. We provide mental health care, essential supplies, parent education, and peer support to ensure every family feels seen, supported, and empowered during this critical life transition.
4162 Redwood Highway, San Rafael, CA 415.320.6707 support@postpartumsc.org postpartumsc.org
WEST END NURSERY
We’re honored to be named Best Nursery 2025 Family-owned since 1909, West End Nursery is proudly celebrating 116 years of helping our community grow. Our knowledgeable staff, exceptional plant selection, and dedication to customer service have kept us rooted in tradition while blossoming into the future. We’re grateful for your continued support — here’s to many more seasons together!
1938 Fifth Avenue, San Rafael, CA 415.454.4175 westendnursery.com Best Nursery
BEST OF 2025 READERS CHOICE WINNERS
DR. ALEX L. BROWN, DC
Having been selected as the Readers Choice Best Chirporactor in Marin is a true honor, and I’m grateful to be recognized alongside so many incredible local businesses.
Backed by over 14 years of chiropractic experience — and many more in the fitness space as both an athlete and trainer, I provide a hands-on, personalized approach. At North Bay Health and Wellness, I specialize in soft tissue therapy, assisted stretching, and full-spine and extremity adjustments — designed to help you move, feel, and live better.
Special thanks to Scott Raymond and Warren Gendel — my mentors, brothers, and the visionaries behind Club Evexia, where North Bay Health and Wellness is located. They’ve created a space rooted in wellness, innovation, and community. Their vision and support reflect the same values that guide my work: comprehensive, hands-on, and results-driven.
Visit clubevexia.com/chiropractor to learn more and schedule your visit.
100 Shoreline Highway, Suite 100, Bldg A, Mill Valley, CA 415.729.0046 clubevexia.com
Best Chiropractor
BEST OF 2025 READERS CHOICE WINNERS
MAIN ST MERCANTILE
Thank you, Marin Magazine readers, for voting Main St Mercantile Best Women’s Clothing and recognizing us as Rest of the Best for Men’s Clothing and Home Furnishings! We’re honored by your support and love being part of this amazing Marin community we call home.
16 Main Street, Tiburon, CA 415.435.1916 mainstmercantile.com
ALEXA MIMELES MASSAGE
Thanks for voting me Best in Marin! With over 24 years of experience, I use a blend of techniques designed to promote relaxation and relieve tension. My goal is to help people’s bodies thrive, so they can do what they love pain free.
608 Eastwood Way, Mill Valley, CA 415.990.6556 alexamimeles.com
Best Men’s Clothing
Honored Once Again — Thanks to You!
As we celebrate our 72nd year in business, we’re deeply grateful to all of our clients and friends who have supported us through the decades.
We’re proud to be recognized once again as the best of Marin — an honor we add to past accolades from Forbes, GQ, and Esquire. Each one is a reflection of the high standard of service and quality we strive to deliver every day.
Thank you for being part of our journey. Here’s to many more years ahead.
729 Bridgeway, Sausalito, CA 415.332.3636 genehiller.com
Best Womens Clothing
Best Massage Therapist
GENE HILLER MENSWEAR
BEST OF 2025 READERS CHOICE WINNERS
BAY AREA DISCOVERY MUSEUM
Forget over planned weekends and underwhelming outings. At the Bay Area Discovery Museum, joy takes the lead. Immersive Discovery Zones—like Mud Kitchen, Lookout Cove, and Art Studios—let kids explore the world on their terms while you get to slow down, enjoy the moment and make memories. No schedule. No pressure. Just the good stuff. Generations of Marin families have grown up here, and we’re proud to be part of that story—again and again. The best part? Confidence, curiosity, and creativity? It’s all happening—without anyone needing to know.
557 McReynolds Avenue, Sausalito, CA 415.339.3900 BayAreaDiscoveryMuseum.org
Best Children’s Activity
BEST OF 2025 READERS CHOICE WINNERS
Best Yoga Studio
METTA YOGA STUDIOS
Thank you, Marin County! We’re incredibly honored to be named Reader’s Choice: Best Yoga Studio 2025. Metta Yoga was created in 2017 to bring beautiful, boutique, community-minded yoga studios to Marin with classes that are dynamic, creative, and grounded in tradition. With three studios across the county, a wide range of teachers and classes -- from heated fiery flows to nourishing yin and restorative -- and dedicated spaces like Metta Mama for new and expecting mothers, there’s something here for everyone. We are so thrilled to share the yoga practices we love with our community!
Try all three studios with our $59 Intro month, or enjoy 15% off a 10-class pack this summer - just for Marin Magazine readers with code MM15 applied to a 10-class pack at check out.
851 Fourth Street, San Rafael, CA 8 Tamalpais Drive, Corte Madera, CA Cloudbreak Yoga, 1621 Bridgeway, Sausalito, CA mettayogastudio.com
SOL FOOD
Thank you Marin Magazine readers for the years of continued support and overwhelming loyalty! Our team serves up authentic Puerto Rican comfort food, using fresh ingredients, with vegan and glutenfree options.
Visit Sol Food at one of our 3 locations, and enjoy a delicious and SOL satisfying meal.
BEST OF 2025 READERS CHOICE WINNERS
SUNRISE HOME
Sunrise Home is celebrating their forty eighth year as Marin’s largest, (and oldest!), family Home Furnishings showroom. They’ve just completed re-setting their thirty thousand square foot store in downtown San Rafael.
Championing smaller boutique craftsmen and women many of their offerings are unique one a kind pieces. This year they have curated a lovely bespoke collection, hand made using hundred year old reclaimed wood. They are also working with several artists from Texas who have created large and dramatic pieces ideal for creating a special interior. When looking for that one wonderful piece which will “make” your house a home we hope to be the first place you stop when you want something out of the ordinary and unique!
831 B Street, San Rafael, CA 415.456.3939 sunrisehome.com
BEST OF 2025 READERS CHOICE WINNERS
LAMPERTI CONTRACTING & DESIGN
We are deeply honored to be chosen as Best Kitchen and Bath Design in the Readers’ Choice Awards. This recognition is especially meaningful because it comes from you — our clients, neighbors, and community here in Marin.
For over 50 years, Lamperti Contracting & Design has been creating kitchens and baths that reflect your lifestyle and vision, blending timeless beauty, functionality, and artistry. As a full-service designbuild firm, we specialize in custom cabinetry, luxury appliances, and curated finishes to bring your dream spaces to life.
Thank you, Marin, for trusting us with your homes and stories.
Lamperti Contracting & Design — Where design meets artistry.
1241 Andersen Drive, San Rafael, CA 415.454.1623 lampertikitchens.com
JOHN CLARKE ARCHITECTS
John Clarke Architects is a full-service architecture and design firm based in Sausalito, serving the Bay Area and beyond since 2003. Specializing in custom residential projects, the firm is known for timeless design, careful listening, and a deep understanding of construction. JCA creates environments that feel personal, functional, and enduring.
Thank you for your continued support in voting us Best of the County!
4000 Bridgeway, Suite 304, Sausalito, CA 415.332.1122 jcarchs.com
Best Kitchen and Bath Design
Best Architect
BEST OF 2025 READERS CHOICE WINNERS
NICE GUYS DELIVERY
Finding premium cannabis products shouldn’t be complicated. That’s why Monica Gray founded Nice Guys Delivery — to bring safe, high-quality cannabis directly to Marin County customers with ease and discretion. Since 2015, her team has provided expert guidance, exceptional service and a carefully curated selection of trusted products. “Our customers deserve a seamless experience, from ordering to delivery,” Monica says. As a leader in the industry, she also fights for fair regulations that keep legal cannabis businesses thriving. With Nice Guys Delivery, customers get more than just cannabis — they get reliability, education and a commitment to their well-being.
Thank you Marin!
We are honored to be the 2025 Best of the County Readers Choice winner and proud to continue to serve our community with the best of Marin’s Cannabis! Marin County and the Bay Area 415.855.5914 NiceGuysDelivery.com
BEST OF 2025 READERS CHOICE WINNERS
Best Disability Care
LIFEHOUSE AGENCY
Thank you for naming Lifehouse Best Disability Service! We are proud to receive this meaningful award and be recognized for the important work that we do. For over 70 years, Lifehouse has been dedicated to inclusion, respect, and opportunity. Your support helps give people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) the opportunity to live full lives throughout our community. This award is a powerful reminder of the impact we can make together. Every voice and every vote advocates for people with I/DD to be valued and included. Thank you for supporting the Lifehouse mission!
18 Professional Center Parkway, San Rafael, CA 415.526.5300 lifehouseagency.org
Best Vegan / Vegetarian
CAFE DEL SOUL
We love our community, thank you for this honor and your vote for Best of Marin!
We love Marin and we love making great tasting, nutrient rich dishes for everyone to enjoy! Our wraps, rice dishes, salads, soups, quinoa dishes and yes, even our nachos should dance on your taste buds while our smoothies, juices, teas and coffee should practically sing, I feel good!
With online ordering it’s easy to order. With locations in Mill Valley and San Rafael (both just off the 101) we’re easy to get to and if you can’t get out, no worries, we deliver!
415.388.1852 247 Shoreline Highway, Mill Valley, CA 415.457.5400 1408 4th Street, San Rafael, CA cafedelsoul.net
BEST OF 2025 READERS CHOICE WINNERS
WINK OPTICS
Thank You, Marin!
Wink Optics — with locations in Downtown Mill Valley and Downtown San Anselmo — is honored to be voted Best Opticians in Marin County. We’re grateful to our amazing patients and clients for your continued trust and support.
Local owner-opticians Quynh Nguyen (Mill Valley) and Frank Gomez (San Anselmo) are proud to be part of the community. Frank was recently recognized as Bank of Marin’s 2024 Spirit of Marin Business Citizen of the Year.
Our dedicated opticians — Jenny, Kaeley, Mary, and Patrick — are here to serve you with care, style, and expertise every day. Come explore our curated collection of independent and distinctive eyewear. Dr. Nina Margolis, O.D. independently provides eye exams at both locations.
70 Throckmorton Avenue, Mill Valley, CA 415.383.4085 623 San Anselmo Avenue, San Anselmo, CA 415.456.7297 winkoptics.com
Best Eyewear
BEST OF 2025 READERS CHOICE WINNERS
Best Fundraising Event
BY THE BAY HEALTH 50TH ANNIVERSARY BLACK & GOLD GALA
By the Bay Health’s Black & Gold Gala, held in March to celebrate our 50th anniversary, was one of the most joyous and anticipated events of the year. The elegant evening brought together community leaders, longtime supporters, and new friends in celebration of our mission to provide compassionate hospice, palliative, and home-based care for all who need it. Highlights included a lively cocktail hour, gourmet dinner, spirited auction, and dancing to a phenomenal live band.
A special tribute honored Mary Taverna, whose visionary leadership helped shape the organization’s legacy. Moving stories shared throughout the night reminded guests of the profound impact of care at life’s most vulnerable moments. It was a heartfelt celebration of the past, present, and future of By the Bay Health.
17 E. Sir Francis Drake Blvd, Larkspur, CA 415.927.2273 bythebayhealth.org/
BEST OF 2025 READERS CHOICE WINNERS
Best
PAMELA LASTIRI INTERIOR DESIGN STUDIO
Thank you for naming us the Best Interior Designer in Marin County! We’re grateful to work in a community that values thoughtful, well-executed design.
At Pamela Lastiri Interior Design Studio, we create refined interiors rooted in architecture and spaces that reflect our client’s lifestyles while honoring the integrity of the home. Every project is approached as its own, with a timeless, curated sensibility, whether it’s a oneroom refresh or a ground-up build.
Trained as an architect, Pamela leads our team with a deep understanding of how considered design and precise documentation lay the foundation for a smooth construction process. Our studio is known for delivering clear, comprehensive drawing sets that streamline communication and support efficient, costconscious execution.
From the first consultation to the final installation, we take pride in making the design journey feel calm, transparent, and collaborative. Photo Credit: Yulia and Paul Dyer
480 Gate 5 Road, #238, Sausalito, CA 415.289.9010 PamelaLastiri.com
Interior Designer
BEST OF 2025 READERS CHOICE WINNERS
Best Photography
THE ENLOE CREATIVE
Thank you to my incredible community for voting me Best of Marin.
I create honest, artful photographs of families, maternity, and newborns — the kind that help you remember not just how life looked, but how it felt. My sessions are relaxed and rooted in connection, often unfolding on windswept trails or in the quiet of a family home.
Based in West Marin, I bring deep local knowledge and a calm, creative presence, often working with analog film and my favorite vintage cameras.
I can’t wait to meet your family.
55 Potrero Lane, Lagunitas, CA 415.260.6332 theenloecreative.com
Best Hair Salon
AUBREE HILL, THE BUSINESS OF BEAUTIFUL
BEAUTY WITHOUT COMPROMISE
Powering confidence through award-winning hair extension transformations rooted in artistry, connection, and integrity. Over 100 women trusted Aubree this past year for natural, seamless extensions designed to feel like your own hair.
With demand at an all-time high, she’s opening something new.
Coming Fall 2025: EXHALE HOUSE — Mill Valley A sanctuary for ethically sourced, transformative hair artistry.
Great Lengths certified. Invisible. Ethical. Exceptional. XOXO Aubree
Mill Valley, CA, 619.241.9266 exhalehousesalon.com
BEST OF 2025 READERS CHOICE WINNERS
Rest of the Best - Yoga Studio / Fitness Class Best Pilates Studio
HOT YOGA REPUBLIC
We know you’re scared, we were scared at one time too.
You’ve heard the sanitized humidity + heat at Hot Yoga Republic is intense. It is — and that’s the point.
Heat gets your muscles loose, your heart pumping, and your excuses out of the way.
Hot Yoga Republic is not spa day. It’s strength training in a sauna, it’s “mindset therapy” with a mic’d-up coach who means it. It’s a full-body wake-up call with bass drops that make quitting impossible.
At Hot Yoga Republic, you’ll shake, you’ll swear, and you’ll leave feeling like a legend.
We don’t whisper affirmations. We blast beats, drop squats, and push past limits. It’s not about being perfect — it’s about showing up, staying in it, and surprising the hell out of yourself.
This is where you stop playing it safe and start leveling up.
No fluff. No filters.
Just you vs. you…and you’re about to win.
800 Redwood Highway, Mill Valley, CA 4050 Redwood Highway, San Rafael, CA 415.300.6533 hotyogarepublic.com
BEST OF 2025 READERS CHOICE WINNERS
THE BALANCED ABODE
The Balanced Abode is Marin’s premier luxury relocation management company, delivering a whiteglove experience with unmatched personalized care. We serve an elite clientele who value seamless execution, discretion, and excellence. From sourcing trusted moving companies and securing storage to coordinating high-end furniture and clothing consignment, every detail is handled with precision. Our expert team provides meticulous packing, unpacking, and organization tailored to your lifestyle. Whether transitioning estates, downsizing, or relocating across the country, The Balanced Abode ensures a calm, curated, and elevated experience from start to finish. Proudly voted Best of the County five years in a row. Photo: Saylor Nedelman
Serving SF + Marin County, CA 415.505.9372 thebalancedabode.org
Thank you for voting EVO SPA Best Massage. It is an honor to serve You for the past 20 years! We sincerely appreciate your loyalty and support.
~ The Evo Spa Team
800 Redwood Highway Frontage Road, Suite 216, Mill Valley, CA 415.383.3223 evo-spa.com
BEST OF2025 REST OFTHEBESTWINNERS
BEST OF 2025 REST OF THE BEST WINNERS
/ Vegetarian Food
ACTIVE CULTURE CAFE
Active Culture Cafe thanks our loyal customers for voting for us in Best of County. Active Culture is a lively, counter service café founded on the belief that healthy food can taste amazing! Burritos, salads, acai bowls, frozen yogurt, and so much more! Please join us every Friday for our new weekly promo: 50% off our entire menu every Friday!
464 Ignacio Blvd, Novato, CA 415.475.1128 activeculturecafe.com
ORGANIZE IT SF
At Organize It SF, we bring compassion, clarity, and tailor-made systems to every home. we’ve been creating fresh, efficient, and transformative spaces for over 14 years. Voted Best of Marin 2024. From small projects to full-home overhauls, our professional team offers full support—your one-stop shop for all things organized. We’ll bring flow, tranquility, and peace of mind to your space—and your life.
Thank you, Marin, for voting us Best Consignment / Thrift Shop. Encore also carries handbags, fabulous shoes, hats, fine jewelry and other accessories. Browse our curated collection and meet our dedicated staff. Marin’s best kept secret! Get ready for Fall consignments, and a new Fall wardrobe!
401 Fourth Street, San Rafael Open Mon–Sat 10–4 415.456.7309 encoreconsignment.com
BEST OF 2025 REST OF THE BEST WINNERS
MBS SALON
At MBS Salon in Mill Valley, our talented team delivers personalized hair services—from seamless custom bonded extensions to dimensional color, and expert cuts. We’re passionate about helping clients feel confident and beautiful with hair that looks as natural as it feels.
34 Sunnyside Avenue, Unit B, Mill Valley, CA 415.895.8778
IG: @mbs.salon.mv mbs-salon.com
THE TRIDENT
The view is always a winner at The Trident! Thank you, Marin County, for the love and the nomination. We’re proud to be part of this incredible community, serving fresh California cuisine, craft cocktails, and unforgettable moments on the waterfront. Here’s to many more shared sunsets!
558 Bridgeway, Sausalito, CA 415.331.3232 thetrident.net
VALLEY MEMORIAL PARK CEMETERY AND FUNERAL HOME
Thank you for voting us Funeral Home. We are here to help! Valley Memorial is Marin County’s most unique locally owned and most affordable, full service, Funeral Home, Cemetery, On-Site Crematory, Chapels and Event Center. All faiths and creeds welcome. Helping families for 65 years in Marin, North Bay, and Sonoma and Napa Counties.
650 Bugeia Lane, Novato, CA 415.897.9609 valleymemorialpark.com COA377, FD2295, CR206
Hair Salon
Al Fresco Dining / Seafood
BEST OF 2025 REST OF THE BEST WINNERS
Consignment / Thrift Shop
FINE ESTATE, INC.
Fine Estate, Inc. thanks Marin County readers for recognizing our team’s dedication to exceptional consignment and auction services. Since 1996, we’ve helped countless Bay Area families and collectors discover the hidden value in their treasures—from cherished heirlooms to sought-after designer pieces.
Our monthly auctions stream worldwide, and our twice-monthly consignment sales draw buyers from all nine Bay Area counties. Our specialists can evaluate jewelry, fine art, Asian Arts, sterling silver, decorative arts, furnishings as well as household and collectibles.
Contact us to learn how we give your treasures the fresh start each deserves, connecting them with those who will cherish them as much as you have.
San Rafael, CA 415.419.5012 finesf.com
BEST OF 2025 REST OF THE BEST WINNERS
BY JENNIFER MARIE
I am a holistic esthetician rooted in clean ingredient beauty. I am so grateful for every client who trusts me and books a service! Thank you Marin for voting me a part of The Best of the Rest 2025! As a new service, I’ve been professionally trained by celebrity spray tan artist Isabel Alysa, founder of Dolce Glow. I am honored to be the only business in Marin to use Dolce Glow. Dolce Glow is an eco certified, vegan tanning line that doesn’t have a toxic odor, smell, or feel.
874 4th Street, San Rafael, CA 415.532.6282 skinbyjennifermarie.com
DORMAN ASSOCIATES
We at Dorman Associates are honored to be featured in Marin Magazine’s “Best of the County.” Visit our website to explore exciting new projects nearing completion—each one rooted in sustainability, innovation, and our deep commitment to Marin’s beauty and community. Thank you!
229 Flamingo Road, Mill Valley, CA 415.380.7914 DormanAssociates.com
Gifts
WILD FENNEL
Thank you to everyone who nominated Wild Fennel! Since opening in October 2022 in Downtown Novato, Anna Sheehy and team have curated a beautiful selection of locally made home decor and gifts. Wild Fennel supports over 80 female entrepreneurs and more than 60 California-based makers — focusing on unique, heirloom-quality pieces for the home, indoor plants, fresh and dried flowers, and unique gifts. Your votes honor our mission to highlight local artists and offer thoughtful, and sustainable options. We’re so grateful for your support — and for championing our small business. We hope to see you soon at Wild Fennel!
818 Grant Avenue, Novato, CA 415-599-9637 shopwildfennel.com
SKIN
BEST OF 2025 REST OF THE BEST WINNERS
Builders
CLEAR DESIGN & BUILD
At Clear Design & Build, we’re honored to be voted Best in Marin County — thank you to our loyal customers and the community for your trust and support. From concept to completion, we guide homeowners through every step of the renovation journey with clarity, care, and craftsmanship.
Whether it’s a kitchen remodel, bathroom upgrade, full-home renovation, ADU, or addition, our team combines thoughtful design with skilled construction to bring your vision to life. We begin with in-depth consultations, develop tailored plans, and manage all aspects of the build to ensure a seamless, stress-free experience.
Your home is our passion, and your satisfaction is our priority.
4040 Civic Center Drive, Suite 200, San Rafael, CA 628.285.7739 cleardesignbuild.com
BEST OF 2025 REST OF THE BEST WINNERS
SKINSPIRIT MILL VALLEY
Best in glow—we’re thrilled to be named Marin Magazine’s Best Facial and Best Med Spa for 2025! As the #1 provider of Botox and filler nationwide, we proudly offer safe, medically-tested, natural-looking treatments you’ll love. Call to book an appointment with our expert providers.
800 Redwood Highway, Suite 610, Mill Valley, CA 415.383.3100 millvalley@skinspirit.com
CROME ARCHITECTURE
We are so honored to be voted as one of the best Architects in Marin! At Crome Architecture we are passionate about delivering insightful architectural designs that enrich experiences through the built environment. We love our clients, and Marin County, thank you
905 4th Street, San Rafael, CA 415.453.0700 lauren@cromearchitecture.com
THE CLUB AT HARBOR POINT
Family-owned for over 55 years, The Club at Harbor Point offers a resort-like setting with waterfront views, top-tier fitness facilities, group classes, tennis, pool, and a full-service bar and grill—creating a welcoming environment for all fitness levels and a vibrant, connected community.
475 E Strawberry Drive, Mill Valley, CA 415.383.3448 harbor-point.com
BEST OF 2025 REST OF THE BEST WINNERS
DR. TIMOTHY RANKIN, MD, FACS
Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon | Founder, NorCal Plastic Surgery
Dr. Timothy Rankin is a board-certified plastic surgeon with a refined focus on facial rejuvenation, rhinoplasty, and post-partum rejuvenation—commonly known as the Mommy Makeover. As the founder of NorCal Plastic Surgery, Dr. Rankin is dedicated to improving his patients’ quality of life by delivering natural-looking, harmonious results that help individuals feel confident and at ease in their own skin.
Dr. Rankin trained at Vanderbilt University, one of the nation’s premier plastic surgery programs, where he developed a strong foundation in both the science and artistry of aesthetic surgery. A recognized author, he has written extensively on safety in aesthetic procedures, further establishing his reputation as a thought leader in the field.
With a philosophy centered on balance, natural enhancement, and personalized care, Dr. Rankin offers a holistic approach to aesthetic transformation. His treatment plans are tailored to each individual, combining advanced surgical techniques, non-surgical options, and wellness strategies to achieve longlasting, satisfying results.
Now expanding to better serve the Bay Area community, NorCal Plastic Surgery is proud to announce the opening of its newest location in downtown Tiburon, offering a serene, state-of-the-art environment for both consultation and care.
“Confidence isn’t about changing who you are—it’s about revealing your best self. My goal is to help patients feel empowered, comfortable, and proud of who they are.” — Dr. Timothy Rankin
575 Sir Francis Drake Blvd. #2, Greenbrae, CA 925.966.3920 norcalsurgery.com
Med Spa
BEST OF 2025 REST OF THE BEST WINNERS
Jewelry Store
STEPHAN-HILL JEWELRY DESIGNERS
Thank you to our clients voting us into the 2025 Best Of Marin County! It’s been 45 years and we’re still designing and maintaining our wonderful designer jewelry collections. Stop in for a chance to reacquaint and possibly treat yourself.
1226 Fourth Street, San Rafael, CA 415.459.5808 stephanhill.com
DYNAMIC ENERGY CRYSTALS
Nestled in the heart of downtown Sausalito, Dynamic Energy Crystals is a woman-owned, family-run gallery offering high-vibration crystals, gems, and minerals sourced from around the world. For over 20 years, we’ve curated meaningful pieces alongside jewelry, books, candles, and incense to inspire healing and connection.
21 Princess Street, Sausalito, CA 415.729.9559, dynamicenergycrystals.com
Integrative / Alternative Medicine
TAO NATURAL SKINCARE
Dr. Ahnee combines the power of Eastern medicine with holistic skincare to treat the root cause behind common skin concerns. She provides a range of therapies like acupuncture, red light therapy, gua sha and nutrition recommendations to address hormonal imbalances, stress, and other deficiencies — which all influence skin health. Her signature services include: micro-needling for: acne, hyperpigmentation, aging skin; cosmetic acupuncture; and her sought-after Korean glass-skin facial. She also uses cutting-edge K-beauty products like exosomes, PDRN serums, and customized herbal formulas.
It’s an honor to be recognized here and we look forward to helping you get glowing, radiant skin!
2400 Las Gallinas Ave, Suite 140, San Rafael, CA 3322 Steiner Street, San Francisco, CA 415.968.9758 taonaturalskincare.com
BEST OF 2025 REST OF THE BEST WINNERS
ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN CARPETS
We’re incredibly honored to be featured in Marin Magazine’s Best of Marin! This recognition means the world to us. For over 30 years, we’ve proudly served the Marin community with expert craftsmanship, premium flooring materials, and personalized service that reflects our deep commitment to quality and trust. From carpet, hardwood and luxury vinyl to custom area rugs, we treat every home like it’s our own. Being part of the vibrant Marin business community is a privilege, and we’re grateful for the support of our amazing clients, contractors, and neighbors. This award reflects the passion we bring to every project — and we’re just getting started! Thank you, Marin, for choosing us. We look forward to continuing to elevate the spaces where you live, work, and thrive.
Architectural Design Carpets
-Your floors, our passion
1111 Francisco Blvd East, Suite 3, San Rafael, CA 415.458.1717 architecturaldesigncarpets.com
Flooring
BEST OF 2025 REST OF THE BEST WINNERS
WE DESIGN INTERIORS
Interior Design
We Design Interiors was founded on a simple concept: Your home should reflect who you are. Providing interior design services to homeowners and industry partners including drafting services, design consultation and professional fixture/ finish selections. Our team has expertise in construction design management/ trade coordination, from conception through the design process, estimation and procurement buy-out and post-construction including turn-key services.
432 Cascade Dr, Fairfax, CA 415.985.0415 WeDesignInteriors.com
Balance is a consult-based concierge women’s health practice, specializing in peri-menopause and menopause care, while also supporting women through all hormonal transitions.
With over 40 years of combined gynecological expertise, we recognize that navigating hormonal changes require more than a typical 15-minute appointment.
619 East Blithedale, Suite A, Mill Valley, CA 415.226.7505 BalanceMarin.com
Elder Care
BY THE BAY HEALTH
Founded in Marin as California’s first nonprofit hospice organization, By the Bay Health celebrates its 50th anniversary delivering quality, compassionate care in the home. Today we partner with leading healthcare providers and physicians to support Marin’s elders with 24/7 comprehensive services covering home health, palliative care for serious illness, and hospice. We are proud that Marin voters recognize By the Bay Health for its long-standing commitment to preserving community-based, patient-centric care for all.
17 E. Sir Francis Drake Blvd, Larkspur, CA 415.927.2273 bythebayhealth.org/
BALANCE - WOMEN’S HEALTH AND WELLNESS OF MARIN
BEST OF 2025 REST OF THE BEST WINNERS
TAVOLA RUSTICA
Tavola Rustica is created by a Chez Panisse alumnus and Wine Spectator Award of Excellence winner. Featuring refined Italian fare, organic seasonal ingredients, and an acclaimed wine list. Experience thoughtful service and the essence of sustainable dining in a warm, intimate setting.
286 Magnolia Avenue Larkspur CA 415.872.7123 tavolarustica.com IG: rusticatavola
OYU SALON
Oyu Salon is grateful to our clients for trusting us to make you look and feel your best Our passion is to make you shine and be the best you!
Oyu Salon is grateful to our clients for trusting us to make you look and feel your best. Our passion is to make you shine and be the best you!
1001 Bridgeway Suite A-2, Sausalito CA (415) 747-9861 https://salonoyu com/contact-us
1001 Bridgeway, Suite A-2, Sausalito CA 415.747.9861 salonoyu.com/contact-us
Community Services / Annual Gala
BY THE BAY HEALTH
As a community-based nonprofit organization, By the Bay Health is proud to serve the Marin, NorthBay, and San Francisco communities with comprehensive services covering hospice, adult and pediatric palliative care, and home health. In partnership with hundreds of local volunteers, we support our patients, their families, and our local communities with education, bereavement counseling, and support groups, and community events. We are grateful to all our dedicated community volunteers who support our mission to provide quality, compassionate care to all, regardless of where they call home or the ability to pay. Join us at www.bythebayhealth.org
17 E. Sir Francis Drake Blvd, Larkspur, CA 415.927.2273 bythebayhealth.org/
Al Fresco Dining
Hair Salon
BEST OF 2025 REST OF THE BEST WINNERS
Family Services
MARIN FOSTER CARE ASSOCIATION
Rooted in the community, Marin Foster Care Association (MFCA) creates solutions to the challenges facing our county’s most at-risk youth. MFCA provides critical services to support caregivers who bring stability and hope to foster youth, while delivering resources that these vulnerable children need to heal and thrive.
55 Mitchell Blvd, Suite 2, San Rafael, CA 415.507.0557 marinfostercare.org
HOLSCHER ARCHITECTURE
Holscher Architecture crafts timeless homes that become the union between creative and pragmatic, interior and exterior, and harmonize the architectural design with the natural beauty of the surrounding site. We are the stewards of people’s unique dreams for their home and take that responsibility seriously.
83 Beach Road, Suite B, Belvedere, CA 415.435.5219 harch.com IG: @holscherarchitecture
Burger / Fine Dining / French Restaurant
LEFT BANK BRASSERIE - LARKSPUR
Classic French cuisine, warm hospitality, and effortless charm, right in the heart of downtown Larkspur. Join us for Happy Hour daily from 3–6PM, host your next private event, or bring the celebration home with our catering and togo options. Whether you’re planning a meeting, a milestone, or a casual night out, Left Bank delivers the flavors you love, served at your place or ours.
507 Magnolia Avenue, Larkspur, CA 415.927.3331 @leftbankbrasserie leftbank.com
BEST OF 2025 REST OF THE BEST WINNERS
PILATES EVOLUTION
Thank you to the Pilates Evolution community for voting us onto the 2025 “Rest of the Best” list in Marin County! We are extremely grateful for the energy, commitment, and strength that have helped us create something truly powerful here at our studio.
247 Shoreline Hwy, #A5, Mill Valley, CA 415.322.0395 pilatesevolutionmarin.com
PARENT SERVICES PROJECT
Thank you for voting Parent Services Project one of the Best Nonprofits in Marin! We’re honored to serve our community by supporting early childhood development, advancing equity, and empowering families through leadership. This recognition fuels our commitment to building a stronger, more inclusive future for all Marin families.
79 Belvedere St, Suite 101, San Rafael, CA 415.454.1870 parentservices.org bfregoso@parentservices.org
Auto Repair
JAPAN AUTO REPAIR
We very much appreciate the trust from our Marin County community with the repair of your vehicles.
We provide service for everything, from oil changes to engine rebuilding. Our goal every day is to get your car problems fixed, your car serviced, safe, and back on the road asap. From easy to hard to fix problems, we are here to help with any questions you might have, even if you are out of town.
Thank you very much for your vote for the Best of Marin County! We do our best and really appreciate the recognition! Thank you, Marin!
48 Front Street, San Rafael, CA 415.258.9376 japanautorepair.com
Pilates Studio
Fitness Class
ORANGETHEORY® FITNESS
Orangetheory® Fitness is a full-body group workout that blends strength, cardio and coaching to help you burn fat and build muscle - fast. Most members see and feel results in just a few weeks. Try it risk-free for 30 days, or your money back. Just show up.
230 Bon Air Center, Greenbrae, CA, 415.481.0876
975 Diablo Blvd, Novato, CA 415.761.1119
750 Redwood Hwy, Suite 1214, Mill Valley, CA 415.433.1200 orangetheory.com
Bar Dining
CORNER BAR
Thank you for voting us Marin’s “Rookie of the Year!” Corner Bar is more than just great cocktails—we serve standout Mediterranean-inspired dishes from Chef Michael Siegel. Now accepting reservations, so come early, grab a table, and enjoy the signature Corner Bar camaraderie.
106 Throckmorton Aveue, Mill Valley, CA 415.888.8001 cornerbarmv.com
A AND P MOVING
Thank you Marin for selecting us as your trusted moving resource. Celebrating our 35th year as a local family owned and operated full service moving, storage, warehouse, and white glove delivery company.
111 Hamilton Drive, Novato, CA 415.883.2391 apmoving.com
BEST OF 2025 REST OF THE BEST WINNERS
MILVALI SALON
Milvali Salon & Cosmetics, local Mill Valley Woman run business — a Marin County favorite for 22+ years. From expert color to experienced waxing, facials, lashes, brows and more, we’re known for award-winning results, a close-knit team, and down-to-earth care. Call, book online, or just swing by and say hi!
3 East Blithedale Avenue, Mill Valley, CA 415.388.0988 milvali.com
LOVE LIVING LIGHTER
Carrie Albachten, the founder of Love Living Lighter, has been helping individuals and families organize their lives since 2015, transforming chaos into calm. As a certified H and L Coach, Carrie addresses the emotional challenges associated with possessions. She believes that the goal is not perfection but rather the development of daily habits to maintain functional living spaces.
Mill Valley, CA 415.218.6233 lovelivinglighter.com
Family Services / Fundraising Event
NORTH BAY CHILDREN’S CENTER
Thank You, Marin Readers! For 37 years, North Bay Children’s Center has been honored to serve as a trusted resource for high-quality childcare, schoolreadiness programs, and our award-winning Garden of Eatin’® environmental education curriculum. We’re proud to help thousands of children and their families grow, learn, and thrive. Now, we’re growing too! This month, we celebrate the grand opening of our allnew Al and Lisa Brayton Campus in Novato—bringing expanded access to childcare for infants, toddlers and preschool age children.
Join us in shaping brighter futures. Enroll. Volunteer. Donate. Be part of this exciting new chapter at NBCC.net.
932 C Street, Novato, CA 415.883.6222, NBCC.net
Hair Salon
BEST OF 2025 REST OF THE BEST WINNERS
J. ROLAND SALON
J. Roland Salon expanded to 36 Caledonia Street, Sausalito, in October 2023. Thanks to a loyal clientele, it quickly became a local favorite for precision cuts, expert color, and now offers lash, brow, and permanent makeup in a warm, contemporary setting.
36 Caledonia St Sausalito CA Wednesday–Sunday, 10am–6pm 628.300.2969 jrolandsalon.com
TIVOLI DECOR
TREASURE HUNT AT TIVOLI: Furniture | Decor | Men and Women’s Fashion
Explore our whimsical vignettes of locally sourced and curated consignment. TIVOLI backwards is I LOV IT. Shop us on Caledonia Street in Sausalito and discover something you love!
333B Caledonia Street, Sausalito, CA 415.559.7149 TivoliDecor.com
EVA CLAIBORNE BEAUTY AND WELLNESS
Master Aesthetician Eva Claiborne and her daughter Eva Temby, Aesthetician, celebrate 30 years of skincare and postoperative care in Tiburon. Trained in Hungary, she combines European techniques with personalized treatments and has established the TITOK Naturals® skincare line, inspired by Hungarian traditions. Thank you to our voters for recognizing us in the Best of the County 2025. Schedule a complimentary skincare consultation with an AI-driven DERMASENSOR FDA-approved skin cancer screenings at tiburonskincare.com.
86 B Main St, Historic Ark Row, Tiburon CA 415.497.3635 tiburonskincare.com
Hair Salon
BEST OF 2025 REST OF THE BEST WINNERS
BUNGALOW 44
Burger / Al Fresco Dining
We are honored to be awarded Best Burger / Al Fresco Dining in Marin! Thank you for your consistent support!!! We invite you to come in soon for mouthwatering cocktails, $1 Oyster Happy Hour, our Hamachi Poppers, famous Kickin’ Fried Chicken and so much more while checking out our gorgeous new patio.
44 East Blithedale Avenue, Mill Valley, CA 415.381.2500 bungalow44.com
ORGANIZED BY SUMI
Thank you, Marin Magazine Readers! My expertise and passion are organizing homes and the estates of loved ones. I turn a lifetime of belongings into orderly and beautiful spaces while making the process efficient and enjoyable. I welcome your call for a consultation to see how I can best help you!
415.847.5909 organizedbysumi.com
Fitness Class / Pilates Studio
CUE THE CORE
Train Hard. Land Soft. Feel Amazing.
Cue the Core is proud to be one of only 14 studios worldwide offering FitSprings—a Pilates-inspired, lowimpact strength and cardio experience. With 20% less joint load, spring resistance, and expert small-group coaching, you’ll build strength, mobility, and dynamic balance—without stressing your body. Perfect for rebuilding, leveling up, or trying something new.
Intro Pack: $198
Includes 1 Private, 2 Pilates Classes + 1 FitSprings Class 1344 4th Street, San Rafael, CA 415.237.2236 cuethecore.com
ENJOY GUIDE MILL VALLEY
TRAVEL
South Bay Awaits
San Jose has been in the news for its ability to bring visitors back more than any other Bay Area city. Is it the passionate young mayor, the Michelin-star cuisine or the deep California history? We’ll let you find out for yourselves, via these three curated itineraries created by our Local Getaways' editors, available on the Marin Magazine website under Travel in the Curated Itineraries tab.
A South SummerBay Weekend Getaway
Looking for a breezy, fun-filled weekend in the South Bay?
— DAY 1 —
Start With a Wake-me-up
Moonside Bakery & Cafe
Much like eggs shouldn't be relegated to breakfast, pizza shouldn't be excluded from it, and the folks here have gone big with this concept. The mushroom comes with spinach and caramelized onions and should be honored with a trophy.
604 Main St, Half Moon Bay, 650.726.9070 moonsidebakery.com
Take to the Trails
Devil’s Slide Trail
The 1.3-mile multiuse trail — part of the California Coastal Trail — offers hikers, runners, bicyclists and equestrians jaw-dropping views of the coast, with rest stops along the way outfitted with observation scopes and informational signage.
Off Highway 1, between Pacifica & Montara, Pacifica smcgov.org/parks/devils-slide-trail
Stop for a Drink
Jettywave Distillery
Tucked into a quiet residential block about 200 yards from the beach in Princeton Harbor, women-owned and operated Jetty Wave Distillery crafts a stellar lineup of small batch, artisanal spirits onsite, including gin, bourbon, absinthe and a handful of liqueurs — many of which include botanicals grown in their own garden.
155 Broadway, Half Moon Bay, 650.291.8835 jettywave.com
Talk a Sunset Walk Around the Lake
Crystal Springs Regional Trail
Taking a stroll along a section of the mostly paved, 15.3-mile, multiuse Crystal Springs Regional Trail is one of the best ways to appreciate the natural beauty of San Mateo County, including the way. Pulgas Water Temple, Filoli estate, a 600-year-old California laurel that is the largest and oldest in the state, and many birds and mammals that call the Peninsula Watershed home.
At the Palo Alto location, find tasty desserts like assorted mochi, a date cake, banana toban (caramelized bananas with candied pecans and malaga ice cream) and more.
180 Hamilton Ave, Palo Alto, 650.531.8800 noburestaurants.com/paloalto/home
— DAY 2 —
The Trolls Have a Message
Filoli Gardens
In keeping with Filoli’s latest initiative to explore the 654-acre estate, surrounded by 23,000 acres of protected watershed the Trolls have come to help us humans understand where we’ve gone wrong, and guide us back to balance with nature. Created by Danish artist Thomas Dambo, the whimsical, gargantuan trolls crafted from reclaimed wood are discoverable on a 1-mile trail through the property.
86 Cañada Rd, Woodside, 650.364.8300 filoli.org
Roadhouse in the Redwoods
Alice's Restaurant
You’ll undoubtedly need to wait for a table at this iconic roadhouse in the redwoods that draws sports car enthusiasts, motorcyclists, hikers and families in equal measure, but the people watching is part of the fun.
Big reveal – it’s actually called Santa Clara Valley. However, if you really think about the proximity to world changing technological innovation here, one might start concocting some type of alien conspiracy theories about the air or soil within Silicon Valley. Here’s your top tech celebs all in one tour.
— Day 1 —
Scholars: Looky Loo U(niversity)
Stanford University
From Memorial Church’s iconic stained glass, a Rodin Sculpture Garden and panoramic view of Hoover tower including the Stanford Linear Accelerator (SLAC) for those Oppenheimer fans, Stanford University is a unique history, tech and science tour rolled into an afternoon. While you’re on campus, don’t miss the alwaysfree Cantor Arts Center, home to almost 42,000 works of art, an outdoor Auguste Rodin sculpture garden and Richard Serra’s massive steel Sequence sculpture (on long-term view).
450 Jane Stanford Way, Stanford, 650.723.2300 visit.stanford.edu
Techies Turned Culinary Celebs
Zareen's
Despite nearby companies offering free meals, both locations (one near Googleplex, one near Stanford University) of Zareen’s is a popular choice among tech workers seeking tasty Pakistani and Indian cuisine.
1477 Plymouth St, Suite C, Mountain View, 650.641.0335 zareensrestaurant.com
Get Into Google
Google Visitor Experience
At the Google Visitor Experience Center you can expect to see a variety of cutting-edge tech innovations that reflect Google’s leadership in AI, hardware, and digital ecosystems.
2000 N Shoreline Blvd, Ground Floor, Mountain View visit.withgoogle.com
Tech History Time
Computer History Museum
Want to know how Silicon Valley went from being known for its lemon and orange groves to becoming a hub for technological innovation? Stop in at the Computer History Museum. Innovations from the past 2000 years are on display or take a stab at being a hacker in the demo lab where an IBM 1401 mainframe awaits your challenge.
1401 N Shoreline Blvd, Mountain View, 650.810.1010 computerhistory.org
Apple Park Visitor Center
Been Funded!
The Village Pub
Situated in Woodside a short drive from major tech companies like Apple, Google, and Facebook, this Michelin star eatery is a popular spot for techies to celebrate the big wins as well as splurge on the ultimate power lunch.
The Rosewood has been the hub of mixing innovation with VC funding for over a decade, get your google glasses out so you can ID all of the techie luminaries (that sounds kinda creepy, so you didn't hear it from us). All 121 guest rooms and suites have private balconies or terraces, and some have a fireplace as well.
2825 Sand Hill Rd, Menlo Park, 650.561.1500 rosewoodhotels.com
— Day 2 —
Tech Nerds Rejoice
Apple Park Visitor Center
While you can’t go to the “ring” at Apple Park unless you have an official business appointment, you can bask in the brand’s glow at the Apple Park Visitor center, an architectural extension of the private campus that’s open to the public.
10600 N Tantau Ave, Cupertino, 408.961.1560 apple.com/retail/appleparkvisitorcenter
Valley History With Falafel
Falafel's Drive In
Located near the heart of Silicon Valley, close to companies like Apple, Google, and various startups. Its no frills (but tasty menu) convenient location has made it a popular lunch stop for engineers, designers, and tech workers for decades. Get a selfie in front of the vibrant mural that depicts many of the valley’s major historical milestones.
2301 Stevens Creek Blvd, San Jose, 408.294.7886 falafelsdrivein.store
Sample Silicon Valley-Style Shopping
Santana Row
Santana Row is a Mediterranean-style district in San Jose, blending upscale shopping, diverse dining, and luxury living. Spanning 42 acres, it features over 50 shops, 30 restaurants, a boutique hotel, and a movie theater. Known as Silicon Valley's “Rodeo Drive,” it's a premier destination for leisure and lifestyle.
377 Santana Row, San Jose, 408.551.4611 santanarow.com
Santana Row
Rosewood Sand Hill
OUT ABOUT
Fairs, fests, music and other excellent events. Community Ongoings
Outside Lands, August 8-10
Golden Gate Park
CALENDAR
Soak up the remaining days of summer vacation before back-to-school chaos ensues with outdoor music events big and small, block parties and sand castle contests — plus live theater, museum exhibits and a world surfing championship starring man’s best friend.
EDITED BY DONNA BERRY GLASS
OUTDOOR SHOWS & EVENTS
AUG 2–3 Nihonmachi Street Fair
Celebrate the diversity of AAPI communities at this long-running, vibrant festival in San Francisco's Japantown, featuring dedicated activity areas for kids, dogs, shopping and more. nihonmachistreetfair.org
AUG 8–10 Outside Lands Headlined by superstars, this massive music festival draws thousands every year for stellar shows, great food and an exciting weekend in Golden Gate Park. Among this year’s biggest draws: Doja Cat, Hozier and Beck. sfoutsidelands.com
AUG 9–SEPT 1 As You Like It
Shakespeare’s play about exile and the challenges and rewards of living outside the centers of power and knowledge can be experienced — for free — at Mill Valley’s Old Mill Park on Saturdays, Sundays and Labor Day Monday. curtaintheatre.org
BEGINNING AUG 15 West End Block
Party This weekly block party on Friday evenings packs downtown San Rafael’s Fourth Street with music and community. downtownsanrafael.org
AUG 23 Sand Sculpture Contest As it has for more than 40 years, a sandy art gallery springs up at Drakes Beach for a morning of competition with categories for kids, families and adults. Carpools are recommended, as parking is limited. nps.gov/pore
COMEDY
AUG 8–9 Paul Reiser Actor, stand up comedian and co-creator of the Emmy nominated “Mad About You,” Reiser shares comedic excerpts from his most recent book, Familyhood . cobbscomedy.com
TUESDAY EVENINGS Comedy Night at the Throckmorton Each Tuesday evening, Throckmorton Theatre showcases on-the-rise comedic talent plus veteran comics from around the world. throckmortontheatre.org
FILM
OPENS AUG 2 CatVideoFest Cats: lovable, silly, strange. Now you can see their antics on the big screen with CatVideoFest, a yearly compilation of kitty clips running about 75 minutes. Great for families and cat-lovers, the special is on view at Rafael Film Center and the Sequoia Theater. catvideofest.com
AUG 20 AND 24 Jago: Into the White Follow Jago, known worldwide as “the new Michelangelo,” for two years from New York to Naples as he works day and night and in complete solitude on his new sculpture: a modern version of Michelangelo’s Pietà. larktheater.net
THROUGH SEPT 7 Mary Blair’s Pigments of Imagination This featurette at the Walt Disney Family Museum shares the inspirational story of Blair’s life and unique artistic style, and is a complement to its latest special exhibition, Mary Blair: MidCentury Magic. waltdisney.org
PHOTO: JOHN MERKL
ARTS, LECTURES & THEATER
AUG 8–24 SF Fringe Festival As one of the oldest fringe festivals in the country, the annual SF Fringe pushes the envelope while elevating local independent theater. theexit.org
AUG 17–SEPT 15 The Tempest The final installment of Marin Shakespeare Company’s summer season features The Tempest, a powerful exploration of second chances and the choices that shape new beginnings. marinshakespeare.org
OPENING AUG 28 Eureka Day Marin Theatre kicks off its 2025–26 season with Eureka Day, a presciently hilarious comedy satirizing “wokeness,” political correctness and good intentions. marintheatre.org
THROUGH AUG 31 Ryan Jones Solo Exhibition Currently based in Mill Valley, Ryan Jones’ newest exhibit at Caldwell
Snyder Gallery brings on feelings of pop culture nostalgia. Through his use of divided canvases and use of classic technique with contemporary realism, his art will certainly evoke some deep thinking. caldwellsnyder.com
MUSIC
AUG 7–28 Concerts at Marin Art and Garden Center Enjoy a variety of musical genres al fresco on balmy summer evenings each Thursday in August at the Marin Art and Garden Center’s Redwood Amphitheater. maringarden.org
AUG 8 Stella Swings Ella Stella Heath channels the powerful vocals of Ella Fitzgerald in this tribute to the “First Lady of Song,” as part of Rancho Nicasio’s outdoor sunset series. ranchonicasio.com
AUG 17 Mari Mack & Livin’ Like Kings: Blues for Brunch Feast on this: a Blues show that is open to all ages, no tickets required. Who knew music could taste this good. sweetwatermusichall.org
MUSEUMS
OPEN NOW Sunflower Sea Stars on Exhibit Three fully mature, brightly colored and critically endangered sea stars are now sharing a tank with a giant Pacific octopus at the California Academy of Sciences. The carnivorous and fascinating creatures are part of a bigger spawning program designed to reestablish the species within California’s coastal waters. calacademy.org
OPENS AUG 2 Far Out: Northern California Art from the di Rosa Collection
The first exhibition shown at the di Rosa Center for Contemporary Art’s new location in San Francisco brings together historical and contemporary works, highlighting the radical and progressive ethos of Northern California artists. dirosaart.org
THROUGH SEP 4 ADA at 35: Making
Waves This exhibit at Marin Center’s two-floor Civic Center Galleries showcases works by artists from Cedars and Marin Ventures, two Marin County organizations serving individuals with disabilities. marincenter.org
UNTIL OCT 11 Viaje a la Luna (A trip to the moon) Shown at the Wattis Institute at California College of the Arts’ new location, this mixed-medium exhibit is inspired by the sole screenplay ever written by the renowned, 20th century Spanish poet, Federico García Lorca. wattis.org
EVENTS
ALL MONTH Live on the Avenue Each Friday and Saturday evening, the main drag in San Anselmo closes off for a true street party, complete with live music, food vendors and lots of kids on scooters. There’s also a double-feature movie night on August 16 with Best of Show and Pets. liveontheavenue.org
Ryan Jones Solo Exhibition
AUG 2 Marin Century Bike Race Not for amateur pedalers, this race is called “century” due to the challenges it poses to cyclists: routes ranging from 37 miles to 124 miles in West Marin with varying elevation climbs. The races begin at Novato’s Stafford Lake, with five route options to choose from. marincyclists.com
AUG 2 World Dog Surfing Championships Surfs up, pups. Venture down to Pacifica’s Linda Mar Beach to see the best doggy surfers in all the land. This isn’t just for giggles, these are real competitors with formidable sea legs — four of them. surfdogchampionships.com
AUG 7–10 Napa Town and Country Fair
This fair puts the “country” in “Wine Country.” If you missed the county fairs of early summer, then head to Napa for a weekend of rides, livestock shows, wine and live music. napafair.org
AUG 9–10 Gravenstein Apple Fair
Sonoma’s heritage apple is at the heart of this community-based fair with local music on multiple stages, food (caramel apples – yes!), arts and crafts booths and specialty and local products from Sonoma’s farmers. gravensteinapplefair.com
AUG 30 Free Fishing Day Time to break out your unregistered hot rod… your fishing rod, that is. For one day only, the California Fish and Wildlife Department permits fishing without a fishing license, encouraging newbies to give the sport a try. Regulations on gear, fishing hours, size limits, etc., still apply. wildlife.ca.gov
Tee Off for a Healthier Marin
at MCC’s Golf Classic
Fore! Join us at StoneTree Golf Club for a scenic day of golf with purpose. Play among 132 acres of pristine greens while supporting Marin Community Clinics’ mission to provide vital medical, dental, and behavioral health care for 1 in 5 Marin County residents.
Tournament
Dinner/Auction
Not a golfer? Enjoy dinner and bid on exclusive golf rounds, luxurious getaways, and one-of-a-kind experiences at our exciting silent auction.
Reserve your spot today!
Golf Cart: Marin Magazine
Hat: Kathie Powell, MSHA & José Chibrás-Sainz, MD
Putting Contest: Bon Air – Greenbrae
Dinner: Tamalpais Pediatrics
Tee: Susannah Clark, Tamalpais Pediatrics, Valley Memorial Park, WIPFLI, Marin Cancer Care
FARMERS MARKET FINDS
BY LYNDA BALSLEV
Eggplant Meets Grill
EGGPLANTS LOVE THE GRILL. A simple brush of olive oil, a sprinkle of salt and the fire of the grill are all that’s needed to transform glossy, spongy eggplants into smoky, crisp and squidgy versions of themselves.
Eggplants — also known as aubergines — are members of the nightshade family. Low in calories and rich in vitamins and nutrients, such as vitamins C, manganese and potassium, eggplants are also a good source of fiber and antioxidants. They come in a smattering of shapes and colors, with purple, white, mauve and striped skins, and narrow, round and pear shapes. They share a meaty interior that becomes soft and creamy when roasted or grilled, and a neutral flavor that obligingly absorbs the flavors and aromas of smoke, spice and marinades.
In this recipe, eggplants hit the grill, basted with a North African spice-infused oil. A leafy herbaceous gremolata studded with bits of preserved lemon finishes the dish. Use any variety of eggplant or a combination of varieties for a diverse presentation. Serve the eggplant warm or at room temperature as a side dish, or sprinkle with crumbled feta and toasted pine nuts for a light vegetarian main dish.
CHERMOULA EGGPLANT WITH PRESERVED LEMON GREMOLATA
Serves 4 as a side dish
Use any variety of eggplant or combine a few varieties for a diverse presentation.
1 to 2 red chile peppers, such Fresno or Jimmy Nardello, thinly sliced
1. Combine the oil, garlic, cumin, coriander, paprika and black pepper in a bowl.
2. Cut off the stems of the eggplant. Cut any long, narrow eggplants lengthwise into 4 to 6 wedges. Slice any round or globe eggplants into 1/2 -inch-thick planks.
3. Score the wedges or slices on the diagonal with shallow crisscross incisions, cutting through the flesh without piercing the other side. (This is an important step, as it allows the flavorful oil to infuse the flesh, while providing lots of ridges and edges to crisp and char while cooking.) Liberally brush the cut sides of the eggplant and in the crevices with the oil. Evenly season with salt and a sprinkle of Aleppo pepper flakes.
4. Prepare the grill for indirect cooking over medium-high heat (or heat the oven to 400°F).
5. Arrange the wedges on the grill over indirect medium-high heat. Cook, basting occasionally with the remaining oil, until the eggplant wedges are soft, squidgy and charred in spots, about 30 minutes (or arrange in one layer on a rimmed baking sheet lined with parchment and roast in the oven, basting occasionally).
6. Arrange on a serving platter. Sprinkle the parsley, mint and lemon. Garnish with the chiles. Serve warm or at room temperature.
DINE
CORTE MADERA
Burmatown Asian
Though the menu remains largely the same (that tea leaf salad! Those bao!) at this location down the street from the original, the addition of a grill boosts the menu with dishes like kalbi ribs or smoked salmon collars. A long bar on one side of the room serves wine and beer and the front windows slide open for easy access to a large patio. 18 Tamalpais Ave, 415.985.5060; burmatown.com
$
Flores Mexican
With an emphasis on regional Mexican dishes and flavors sourced from family recipes, the menu is based on California seasonality and revolves around gluten-free masa. The daily-made tortillas are a highlight. 301 Corte Madera Town Center, 415.500.5145; floressf.com
BB HH
Marin Joe’s Italian
A mainstay for a reason: the menu calls to you with garlic bread, a calamari sandwich and mesquite-grilled prime rib. Sautéed classics of the ItalianAmerican canon as well as oysters doré and pastas have withstood the test of time. 1585 Casa Buena Dr,
415.924.2081; marinjoes restaurant.com
RH Marin American
Ride up the goldenhued elevator to the top floor restaurant bedecked in RH style and linger over a shaved vegetable salad, a truffled grilled cheese sandwich on Panorama Bakery sourdough or a namesake RH Burger. This rooftop sunroom and outdoor lounge boasts glass ceilings and walls for an epic view of Mount Tam and a feeling of floating above it all. 1750 Redwood Highway at The Village, 628.266.2040; rh.com
BB
FAIRFAX
Barefoot Cafe
American Chef Tony Senehi’s all-day cafe 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. 1900 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, 415.460.2160; barefootcafe.com
BB $
Fradelizio’s Italian
A perennial neighborhood gem, the cozy space welcomes all
with daily specials (fresh local fish, housemade Meyer lemon fettuccine with salmon, cioppino, a Becker Lane organic pork cannelloni) and a Napa Valley wine from the barrel program. 35 Broadway Blvd, 415.459.1618; fradelizios.com
La Gastronomia
Italian Like the town it’s situated in, La Gastronomia is a lively and cozy restaurant best known for its authentic cuisine, fresh ingredients and warm atmosphere. Originally from a coastal town in Italy, owners Elena and her husband Gustavo curate a taste of the Italian coast in the California sun.
Run by sisters Sonia and Soyara, Sorella serves fresh Italian with a northern influence. Favorites include the cioppino, butternut squash ravioli, pollo alla Sorella and the garlic bread. 107 Bolinas Rd, 415.258.4520; sorellacaffe.com
$
GREENBRAE / KENTFIELD
Gott’s Roadside
American At its only Marin outpost, Gott’s features the signature California-inspired
dishes the restaurant is known for (burgers — regular, ahi and Impossible — shakes, salads and fries) as well as a 30-foot-long pine table for community-style eating and an expansive patio out front. 302 Bon Air Center, Greenbrae, 415.785.4233; gotts.com
$
Guesthouse
Californian Jared Rogers, the former executive chef of Picco, heads up the kitchen, partnering with restaurateur Dustin Sullivan on this 110-seat space. Look for well-executed California cuisine with weekly specials like Prime Rib on Mondays and fried chicken on Sundays,
plus killer cocktails — the Sunburn and Easy Money are local favorites. 850 College Ave, Kentfield, 415.419.5101; guesthousemarin.com
HH
Half Day Cafe
American Tucked away in a setting of intertwining ivy and large open windows, this cafe is the quintessential breakfast nook and is also open for brunch and lunch, including coffee drinks, pastries and much more. Enjoy a casual daytime meal inside or out on the patio. 848 College Ave, Kentfield, 415.459.0291; halfdaycafe.net
BB $
Buckeye Roadhouse, Mill Valley
Experience
Where the bar comes to you!
Who they are:
27/17 Bar Service was founded by husband and wife team, Somori and Tracy Pointer. Their passion for fresh, vibrant cocktails and love of getting a party started, combined to launch a service that you didn’t know you needed until
now! The welcoming smiles and ondemand cocktails immediately put guests at ease. And don’t get us started on the out-of-this-world MOCKTAILS!
How to connect:
@2717barservice
2717barservice@gmail.com
Why choose 27/17 Bar Service?
Package options for any size occasion
Freshly crafted cocktails & mocktails
Gorgeous setups & signage
Bartenders you’ll actually want at your party
Add-ons: coffee bar, photo booth, kids’ station
Fully licensed & insured
Photo Credit: Prismic Photography 2024
OUT AND ABOUT DINE
Rio Rock Açai Café
Smoothies Açai bowls, like the Carmen Miranda with cacao nibs and peanut butter, and smoothies are at the heart of an all-day café that serves up sandwiches (chicken pesto panini, lox bagel) and pastas, too. Boba and espresso drinks are coming soon. 860 College Ave, Kentfield; 415.747.8668; riorock acaicafe.com
baked fresh each morning and salads, sandwiches, and soups make this a staple. 2017 Larkspur Landing Circle, 415.461.9900 and 1139 Magnolia Ave; 415.925.1556; rusticbakery.com
$
MILL VALLEY
Buckeye Roadhouse
$
LARKSPUR
Left Bank Restaurant
French This Parisianstyle brasserie by Chef Roland Passot has been serving the community for more than two decades. Whether on the patio, bar or in the elegant
American Oysters Bingo, baby back ribs, and chili-lime “brick” chicken are a few of the comfort-food menu items that have made this classic roadhouse a favorite since the ’30s. The dark-wood bar with red leather booths is a popular spot for cocktails, conversations or a light meal. Heated patio seating offers a moment’s respite with a fresh espresso and breakfast burrito from the weekday Buckeye Joe Coffee Kiosk. 15 Shoreline Hwy, 415.331.2600; buck eyeroadhouse.com
BB HH
Bungalow 44
American The bustling bar is ideal for savoring a seasonal cocktail or an order of the house’s famous kickin’ fried chicken. The one-dollar happy hour oyster program still operates from 5–6 p.m., Monday–Thursday and the heated outdoor patio is a town hot spot. 44 E Blithedale Ave, 415.381.2500; bungalow44.com
Corner Bar
Mediterranean Corner Bar is downtown Mill Valley’s first
cocktail lounge… ever! Bring a date or simply come to unwind in the sleek interior, which features two bars plus plenty of window space overlooking the town square. A menu of Mediterranean bites complement Corner Bar’s artfully crafted cocktails.106 Throckmorton Ave, 415.888.8001; cornerbarmv.com
Floodwater
Californian Order a handcrafted “Gold Rush” (Old Forester bourbon, local honey, lemon) at the long 20 seat bar and watch the game on five huge 4K TVs while noshing on pork belly steamed buns, or dive into Shorty’s Tall Reuben. The patio features multiple fire pits.
152 Shoreline Hwy, 415.843.4545; floodwatermv.com
HH $
Paseo Bistro
Californian
The bistro along ‘el paseo’ exudes the same charm as its predecessors with a French-inflected menu from executive chef Sylvain Montassier. That translates into dishes of tuna tartare with chicharron and shiitakes, squid ink linguini with local crab and mussels or a Devil’s Gulch pork chop with crispy spaetzle and cabbage. Sip a classic cocktail in the Paseo bar or savor chocolate fondant with salted caramel ganache in one of the inviting exposed brick and wood dining rooms. 17 Throckmorton Ave, Mill Valley;
415.888.3907; paseobistro.com
Piatti Ristorante and Bar Italian A fireplace lounge and open format concept invites lingering over refreshed menu items such as house made ravioli with lemon cream and citrus gremolata, roasted mushroom pizza with taleggio fonduta and black truffle oil or roasted salmon with artichokes and Calabrian chili.
625 Redwood Hwy, 415.380.2525; piatti.com
Playa Mexican
With a chef from Mexico City, Playa’s food offers traditional dishes with modern flavors and presentations. A Little Gem salad sparkles with tomatillo dressing and enchiladas shine from a glossy coating of house made black mole and micro greens. The bar highlights exceptional tequilas and mezcals but the el Slushie and house margarita have legions of fans and are perfect for sipping on the large, heated back patio. Weekend lunch is available.
41 Throckmorton Ave, 415.384.8871; playamv.com
BB HH
Piazza D’Angelo
Italian Family owned for over 40 years, Piazza D’Angelo evokes a traditional trattoria dining experience, including the bustling bar. Enjoy a variety of housemade pastas, meat
and seafood dishes, wood-fired pizzas, and gluten-free offerings with organic and locally sourced ingredients. A back patio and newer front patio provide ample outdoor dining space. 22 Miller Ave, 415.388.2000; piazzadangelo.com
BB
Sweetwater Music Hall’s Rock & Rye American Bay Area chef Rick Hackett redesigned the menu to feature South American and New Orleans-inspired dishes with a seasonal focus at Sweetwater Music Hall’s refreshed restaurant. An extensive collection of whiskeys and craft cocktails pays tribute to independent music venues and the 50-seat outdoor patio was redone.
With views of Mt. Tam from the covered, heated patio, this spot known for its local sourcing also features two fireplaces and a full bar serving craft cocktails, wine and beer. The difference is in the dough, small batch, housemade and gluten-free. 477 Miller Ave, 415.388.7437; tamalpiepizzeria.com
NOVATO
Perry’s Novato American Epic burgers and cocktails, excellent service, signature blue-andwhite gingham tablecloths — expect all of those and more here at Perry’s northernmost location. 224 Alameda Del Prado, 415.506.4212; perryssf.com
BB
SAN ANSELMO / ROSS
Comforts Cafe
American Established in 1986, Comforts has a cozy sit-down cafe, serving breakfast, lunch and weekend brunch. 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. 335 San Anselmo Ave, 415.454.9840; comfortscafe.com
BB $
Creekside Pizza & Tap Room American
A perennial Best of the County winner known for their artisan pizzas, hearty sandwiches, flavorful pastas and fresh salads, Creekside offers plentiful gluten-free and vegan options
too. Their copper bar with a 40-handle selection of craft beer (including gluten-free beer), plus wine and kombucha on tap. 638 San Anselmo Ave, 415.785.4450; creeksidesa.com
Cucina sa Italian Open for lunch, weekend brunch, and dinner six nights a week, come by for homemade pastas, seasonal salads, and wood-fired pizzas that strike a balance between southern Italy and Northern California. Don’t skip the happy hour from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. from Tuesday to Friday, either! 510 San Anselmo Ave, 415.454.2942; cucina-sa.com
Insalata’s Mediterranean Award-winning chef Heidi Krahling’s downtown restaurant features soulful Mediterranean fare for 25+ years. Dinner favorites include cataplana with mussels and chorizo, Middle Eastern-inspired vegetarian platter, Moroccan lamb flatbread, house made pastas and of course, the fattoush salad. An expansive takeout counter offers a wide range of selections for family meals, celebrations or a quick lunch option. 120 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, San Anselmo, 415.457.7700; insalatas.com
Kuro Nami Japanese Kitchen Japanese Kuro Nami, which means “black wave,” is a restaurant from the team behind The Baan Thai Cuisine. There, you’ll find inventive sushi rolls, premium sake and a menu of signature dishes that explore the depth of Japanese cuisine. It’s not just sushi — you can try picks like kani miso (grilled miso paste with crab), or their creamy pasta with tempura softshell crab. 69 Center Blvd, San Anselmo, 415.459.6969; kuro namimarin.com
The Baan Thai Cuisine Thai
Known for their mango sticky rice, crispy corn cakes and eponymous salad, The Baan Thai also features new menu items like fresh spring rolls and steamed dumplings and old favorites such as the tom kha soup entice with fresh flavors and just the right amount of sweet heat. 726 San Anselmo Ave, 415.457.9470; thebaanthai cuisine.com
Valenti & Co.
Italian The bright space and warmly lit back patio are ideal for authentic Italian dishes made with local ingredients. The menu changes daily but look for the carpaccio of beef, the pan-seared Pekin duck and chef Valenti’s famous tower of triple chocolate love at dessert. 337 San Anselmo Ave, 415.454.7800; valentico.com
SAN RAFAEL
Cafe del Soul Californian
Healthy options become addictive at this eatery that now has locations in 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. 1408 Fourth St, 415.457.5400; cafedelsoul.net
$ La Toscana
Ristorante & Bar Italian Family owned and operated, 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.
Red Rooster Brick Oven American Roasted in the brick oven, then brushed with sweet and spicy garlic sauce, Red Rooster wings are a must-order at an allday Italian American restaurant with a sprinkling of Asian flavors. The buttermilk-fried chicken sandwich with house made chipotle aioli has a dedicated following. 901 B St., 415.234.8414; redroosterbrick oven.com
$
Left Bank, Larkspur
Sol Food Caribbean/Puerto Rican Sol Food whips up traditional Puerto Rican dishes with fresh ingredients. 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 pepper sauce, also for sale by the bottle (as is the lemon-garlic salad dressing). They also have a special menu from “Victor’s Crispy Tacos.” 901 Lincoln Ave, 415.451.4765; solfoodrestaurant.com
$
Vin Antico American Vin Antico, “where passion meets the plate,” serves seasonal marketinspired cuisine like stone-oven-baked flatbreads, handmade pastas and organic salads, all innovatively prepared. Black
sesame-crusted tuna is classic, even better with an Il Capo negroni. 881 Fourth St, 415.721.0600; vinantico.com
BB
SAUSALITO
Angelino Restaurant Italian Multiple generations of the Ancona family create an authentic Italian eatery with handmade pastas and seasonal antipasti that has showcased the cuisine of the Campania regionfor more than 20 years. 621 Bridgeway, 415.331.5225; angelino restaurant.com
Copita Mexican Co-owner Joanne Weir, along with Chef Aaron Sabido, presents fresh Mexican fare in the heart of Bridgeway. The everchanging menu is 100
percent gluten-free, masa is prepared and pressed in house for each and every tortilla, and the in-house tequila bar serves over 100 varieties, ideal for crafting your own margarita. Dine at the bar or on the outdoor patio for great people-watching. 739 Bridgeway, 415.331.7400; copitarestaurant.com
BB $ HH
Fish Seafood
It has been said that this restaurant and fish market launched the sustainable seafood movement, making it the ultimate place for freshly caught, unobjectionable fare. Order any of the day’s offerings — the menu changes — daily but usually has a variation of fish tacos, ceviche and grilled fish. 350 Harbor Dr, 415.331.3474; 331fish.com
The Joinery American
This waterfront restaurant features a patio whose big salads and shareable plates make it a destination for families and groups. Order at the front, then grab a seat to enjoy the craft beer, Joinery or Impossible burger, rotisserie chicken and seasonal fare. 300 Turney St, 415.766.8999; joineryca.com
$
Kitti’s Place Thai
This home-style family-run restaurant has been in town for over 20 years. It features Californiainspired favorites like lettuce cups stuffed with chicken and almonds, soft spring rolls and a curried turkey burger. A patio out front gets midday sun. 3001 Bridgeway, 415.331.0390; kittis place.com
$
Poggio Italian Vitello sliced excruciatingly thin and topped with lemon and tonnato sauce is a singular dish in the hands of executive chef Benjamin Balesteri who creates Northern Italian fare using local and Italian ingrdients. 777 Bridgeway, 415.332.7771; poggiotrattoria.com
BB
The Trident Seafood Set in a turn-of-thecentury building constructed for the San Francisco Yacht Club, this waterfront restaurant is a shoo-in for date night where every seat has a water view. Famous for musician sightings in the 1970s, the room with the great vibe is now known for supporting local farmers, fishers and organic food producers in everything from its well-regarded cioppino to a Louie salad with crab or prawns and beerbattered fish and chips. 558 Bridgeway, 415.331.3232; thetrident.net
HH
TIBURON
Caffe Acri Italian
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. 1 Main St, 415.435.8515; caffeeacri.com
BB $
Luna Blu Italian Executive chef Renzo Azzarello serves Sicilian seafood and homemade pastas with a Californian touch. The seasonal menu incorporates fresh and organic produce, local naturally grown meat and poultry from small farms. The restaurant complies with Monterey Bay Aquarium Seafood Watch, so all the seafood is sustainable. A recent expansion tripled the size of the patio to accommodate more diners. In 2014, diners voted Luna Blu one of the Top 100 Neighborhood Gem restaurants in America. 35 Main St, 415.789.5844; luna blurestaurant.com
BB
Malibu Farm Californian
The latest SoCal-toNorCal culinary import features a homegrown and sustainable ethos in dishes like fennel-rubbed boneless half chicken and soy-ginger hanger steak. Look for yuzu butternut squash linguine with za’atar coconut cream, pizza with a zucchini crust, plus a lobster roll on a hot dog bun. 9 Main St, malibu-farm.com
BB
Petite Left Bank
French A smaller version of the Larkspur original features an all-day menu of
Poggio Trattoria, Sausalito
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OUT AND ABOUT DINE
French bistro classics. A notable wine list, artisan craft cocktail menu, and spirit-free beverages round out the lively experience. Open daily for lunch and dinner, with weekend brunch on Saturday and Sunday, and daily morning coffee and pastry service coming soon. 1696 Tiburon Blvd, Tiburon; 415.910.1010; petiteleftbank tiburon.com
$
Rustic Bakery
Californian
This location of the beloved bakery is a block from Tiburon’s main street and 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. 1550 Tiburon Blvd, 415.797.6123; rusticbakery.com
$
Salt & Pepper
American
A locals favorite for classic American fare. From morning’s Bloody Mary and eggs Benedict through lunch’s clams bouillabaisse and hamburger to dinner’s crab cakes with jalapeño dipping sauce and skirt steak tacos. 38 Main St, 415.435.3594; saltandpepper tiburon.com
BB
Sam’s Anchor Cafe
American Sam’s boathouse feel and boat tie-ups with boatside service 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. 27 Main St, 415.435.4527; samscafe.com
BB HH
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 Ark Row, Servino also prides itself on its extensive sustainable seafood program and deep Italian wine list. 9 Main St, 415.435.2676; servino. com
BB HH
Squalo Vino Wine Bar American Fifteen wines by the glass, 90 by the bottle and a handful of local beers are available at an intimate wine bar and wine shop. Look for rare and hard-tofind bottles to enjoy onsite at one of the bistro tables or from a comfy, velvet-lined club chair or to go. Cheeseboards featuring Rustic Bakery crackers and Cowgirl Creamery’s Mt Tam and a “fish and chips’ plate with caviar from nearby The Caviar Company are on hand. 34 Main St, Tiburon; 415.889.5585; squalovino.com
HH
The Bungalow Kitchen Californian
A lively social lounge and restaurant from chef Michael Mina and Brent Bolthouse boasts epic views and a menu of seasonal California fare executed by chef Harrison Chernick — crispy Liberty duck wings glazed with Grand Marnier and black pepper, cavatelli cacio e pepe with black truffles, jalapeño shrimp toast — at night. Brunch cocktails pair with sweet potato pancakes and hot chicken and waffles on weekends while the upstairs lounge boasts latenight service (until 12 a.m.), a billiards table, a gas-powered fireplace, and a live DJ on weekends. 5 Main St, 415.366.4088; bungalowkitchen.com
BB HH
The Caprice Californian
Expansive bay views from every seat are just one of many charms after an extensive remodel. The revamped menu of well-crafted comfort food from land (bone-in filet mignon, Colorado lamb chops) and sea (gnocchi with crab, abalone dore), also features classic cocktails and a wine list that leans towards American, Italian and French offerings.
Complimentary evening valet provided. 2000 Paradise Drive, 415.435.3400; the caprice.com
BB HH
The Caviar Co American Belvedere resident Petra Bergstein expanded
her San Franciscobased business with a downtown shop and restaurant dedicated to the briny delicacy. Caviar flights, along with Champagne by the glass or bottle and small plates like grilled cheese with truffles, are available to enjoy in their tasting room or to take home. 46A Main Street, Tiburon; 415.889.5168; info.the caviarco.com
makes the most of fog-whipped and rainy days. 23240 Highway 1, Marshall, 415.663.1033; nickscove.com
Rancho Nicasio
on weekdays as on the weekends. 11285 CA-1, Point Reyes Station, 415.663.1515; stationhousecafe.com
BB $
Tony’s Seafood
Seafood
Tiburon Tavern Californian Food service at the Lodge at Tiburon is in the hands of Luna Blu’s Renzo and Crystal Azzarello who run the Tiburon Tavern bar, restaurant and other on-site eating opportunities. Executive chef Selvin Vicente is on board to handle the flow from breakfast and brunch through dinner. 1651 Tiburon Blvd, 415.435.3133; lodgeattiburon.com
BB HH
WEST MARIN
Nick’s Cove
American
This historic, beloved escape and its cozy cottages recently underwent a refresh to maximize enjoyment of the picturesque views from its perch on Tomales Bay. Take a seat outside along the pier, at the boat shack over the water or in the waterfront lounge and enjoy barbecued local oysters, Dungeness crab mac ’n’ cheese and cocktails incorporating homegrown ingredients. The cozy bar and fireplace in the main dining room
American 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, the outdoor space welcomes all with plenty of shade and space between tables. 1 Old Rancheria Road, Nicasio, 415.662.2219; ranchonicasio.com
BB
Side Street
Kitchen American
The fine-casual eatery led by chef Aaron Wright serves favorites like rotisserie chicken, and porkbelly BLTs as well as wholesome vegetarian fare. This is one of the few spots in West Marin that serves gluten-free beer. The cozy patio is shaded and dog-friendly. 60 Fourth St, Point Reyes Station, 415.663.0303; sidestreet-prs.com
BB
Station House Cafe
American Known for their house made popovers, this cozy cafe is also recognized for fresh oysters, grassfed burgers, and an “everything fresh, local and homegrown” ethos. Dining in the garden is as popular
The crowds come on sunny weekends for the barbecue oysters and amazing views, but the restaurant’s purchase by the Hog Island Oyster Co team meant a refresh of the interior and a spiffed-up menu of seafood pulled from the bay’s waters. Michelin noticed and awarded Tony’s a Bib Gourmand in 2021. 18863 Shoreline Hwy, Marshall, 415.663.1107; tonysseafood restaurant.com
HELLO! MARIN
App continued from page 33
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The Hello! Marin App is available for both Apple and Android devices on August 1st.
BY DONNA BERRY GLASS
ON SCENE THE
Star Power Lights Up SFJazz Gala
It was a star-studded evening at the SFJazz Center in San Francisco on June 12 as SFJazz held its annual gala, co-hosted by actors Delroy Lindo and Paul Reiser. The organization honored Blue Note Records President Don Was with its Lifetime Achievement Award; Was joined other celebrities on stage for special performances. The event raised $1.5 million to support SFJazz’s artistic and education programs.
1
A Night in Tuscany Delivers Big for Education
The North Bay Children’s Center hosted its 36th annual gala, A Night in Tuscany, on May 17 at the Sonoma Veterans Memorial Hall. The elegant evening drew 280 guests from across the Bay for a cause close to home: quality early childhood education. Highlights included live and silent auctions, local artisan offerings, and a gourmet three-course dinner. The event raised more than $371,000.
1
2
Don Was, Daniel Lurie, Jeffrey Whipps, Delroy Lindo and Terence Blanchard; 2 Matt Brewer, Lisa Fischer, Bill Frisell, Terence Blanchard; 3 Delroy Lindo; 4 Paul Reiser
Jackie Elward, Gerard Guidice and Susan Gilmore;
Neil Hennessy, Kathy Hennessy, Meredith Hennessy and AJ Hennessy; 3 Brenda LaNoue, Electra Lyman, Mark Milberg, Lane Watson, Jeannie Evans
A Culinary Fundraiser
Patek Philippe Opens in San Francisco
Stepping Up for Marin
Community Action Marin’s 4th annual Step Up Marin! opened with a festive ribboncutting to celebrate the opening of its new Novato campus, where the event was held. Keynote speaker Michael Tubbs delivered an address to inspire deeper racial and economic justice in Marin; while Monica Umaña, joined by her daughter, accepted the 2025 Community Courage Award.
3
San Francisco Mayor Daniel Lurie was among the select guests at the May 20 opening of Patek Philippe’s striking new boutique in Union Square. Operating in partnership with longtime authorized retailer Kerns Jewelry, the space marks the Swiss watchmaker’s third and largest standalone U.S. location.
1 Jeff Babcock and Chandre Alexandre cut ribbon at new campus; 2 Michael D. Tubbs;
Marin Girls Chorus performs for the crowd
1 Joseph Vigorito, Eric Mendell, Daniel Lurie, David Mendell, Thierry Stern, Lisa Jones, James Cullen; 2 Patek Philippe Boutique Grand Opening
MARIN HOME
Tiburon Transformation
A family’s forever home is renovated for its next phase: empty nesting.
BY LOTUS ABRAMS
PHOTOGRAPHY BY R. BRAD KNIPSTEIN
White oak, marble and zellige tile feature prominently in the primary bathroom.
FOR MORE THAN A DECADE, a family of four lived in the same house in Tiburon, but when the kids left for college, the parents decided it was time for a refresh. “They love their location and their neighborhood, but the home had not been touched in many years, and they wanted it to really feel like their own space,” says San Rafael-based interior designer Jennifer Wundrow, who helped to transform the house, a 2,800-squarefoot, three-bedroom, two-bath dwelling built in 1956. “This is their forever home.”
Over the years, the homeowners had become increasingly frustrated with several aspects of their home. The entrance lacked personality, access to the primary suite required awkwardly passing through the primary bathroom, the living space floor plan was choppy and separated, and the kitchen and family room was cramped and didn’t take advantage of the views of Mt. Tam and the bay. Finishes were also dated throughout.
Details WHERE
WHAT 1956-era 2,800-square-foot, three-bedroom, two-bath remodel
ARCHITECT:
Before Wundrow could work her interior design magic, however, San Rafaelbased architect Daniel Castor tackled the spatial issues. To improve the curb appeal and provide shelter from the elements, he added a gabled roof supported on brackets over the front door. Inside, he removed several walls, including a wall between the kitchen and dining area, to better connect the living spaces; reconfigured the primary suite; and pushed out 5 feet into the side yard to increase the size of the family room. “This small addition made a world of difference to the way we could furnish the interior and created an opportunity to more fully enjoy the views,” Castor says.
Castor Architecture
INTERIOR DESIGN
Jennifer Wundrow Interior Design
CONSTRUCTION
Norman Charles Construction
re-stained the home’s existing, yellow-tinged oak floors in a contemporary rich, chocolate brown shade.
In the enlarged kitchen, Wundrow complemented the two natural white oak islands with dark gray painted cabinetry and quartzite surfaces. Dual sets of pendant lamps from Room & Board hang above the islands, and sconces from Visual Comfort & Co. illuminate the primary sink area. “The kitchen is a dramatic change from the original,” Wundrow says.
Now open to the kitchen, the dining room is filled with natural light. Wundrow furnished the space with a Four Hands table, reupholstered Palacek chairs and a Schoolhouse chandelier.
For Wundrow, achieving an interior aesthetic that harmonized modern and traditional elements was a top priority, along with keeping the budget in check, which she achieved by mixing custom and retail furnishings. Throughout, she
Wundrow worked around the existing piano in the living room, updating the fireplace with a new insert and custom mantel and adding new furniture, including a curved Cisco couch, Crate & Barrel chairs, Rejuvenation coffee table and
Double white oak islands draped in quartzite provide plenty of surface area for prep and entertaining in the enlarged kitchen.
Tiburon
Jaipur Rugs area rug. She added a new fireplace surround in the enlarged family room as well, along with a custom-upholstered couch and swivel chairs. Much of the furniture was reupholstered with durable fabric, designed with the clients’ two small dogs in mind. “We tend to use a lot of indoor-outdoor fabrics on our projects to promote the longevity of the pieces,” she says.
Upstairs, the reconfigured primary bedroom features another new fireplace surround, Lawson-Fenning bed and mohair-upholstered Cisco chair. In the primary bathroom, the team replaced an oversize built-in tub with a space-savvy freestanding tub, swapped the shower and toilet locations to brighten the shower area, and added a new window and storage cabinet. The custom floating white oak double vanity features a striking marble countertop from Da Vinci Marble, and tilework includes porcelain tile-clad heated floors, zellige tile on the shower walls and marble picket tiles on the shower floor. Allied Maker pendants — which the client loved when she saw them used in another one of Wundrow’s projects — illuminate the space.
“This was a dream project, and these were dream clients,” Wundrow says. “They were so lovely to work with and really trusted our vision.”
Clockwise, from top left: The bar cleverly includes two built-in “dog crates”; the team swapped an oversize built-in tub in the primary bathroom for a space-savvy freestanding tub; opening the floor plan filled the dining room with light; a custom fireplace mantle and new furniture refreshed the living room.
LIFE ON THE LAGOON
Rebuilding a sunroom in Belvedere to preserve family memories for years to come.
BY LOTUS ABRAMS
“It was the greatest last year of her life that she could ever have had.”
“I’ve spent so much time in this house all of my life,” Paige Peterson recalls fondly of her grandparents’ home on the lagoon in Belvedere, where she and her family lived just down the street. “I was there every afternoon with my grandparents, and I’d stay over on weekends.”
Peterson’s grandfather bought the lagoon-front land in the early 1950s for just $5,000 and built the modest midcentury-style home for a mere $17,000. The house, and especially the lagoon, holds countless childhood memories for Peterson, from diving off the dock to boating and paddleboarding on the water. “My grandfather even made a paddleboard for me out of wood — he was ahead of his time,” Peterson says.
Peterson’s mother, Connie Wiley, lived in the Belvedere lagoon house up until the day she passed away on Christmas Eve of last year, at the age of 98. A beloved community member, Wiley enjoyed a successful career as an interior designer; was a member of the Tiburon Peninsula Chamber of Commerce board and the Tiburon Economic Development Committee; and served two terms as mayor of Belvedere subsequently bestowed with the title of the Belvedere Citizen of the Year in 2005.
Peterson’s family home has remained
nearly unaltered over the years, other than opening up the kitchen floorplan about a decade ago. Last year, however, the family replaced the glass and steel sunroom — exactly as it stood originally — and the foundation beneath it was rebuilt. Even the patio was restored, brick by brick using the original material, keeping family memories intact. “We built it in kind, with great intention,” Peterson says.
Realizing early on that many days on the Belvedere Lagoon were too windy to sit outside, Peterson’s grandfather had installed two sliding glass doors on the patio to block the gusts. About 10 years later, Peterson’s mother added an overhang. The simple sunroom enabled the family to enjoy the view while remaining protected from the elements for many years, but the structure and foundation were failing.
For Peterson, it was an easy decision to hire local builder Hadley General Contractors to complete the project — a company her family has been connected to for many years. In the 1950s, Peterson’s mother often worked closely on interior design projects with builder Bob Hadley, who eventually purchased the company from the original owners in the early 1970s, and Peterson herself is now the director of marketing for the company.
Paige Peterson in 1959 on the lagoon.
Connie Wiley and family in 1955.
When the original structure was demolished, Peterson fleetingly considered not rebuilding it at all, entranced by the wide-open feeling of the patio looking out to the lagoon, but she soon changed her mind. “The problem is that 95% of the time you can't sit there because the wind is ferocious, so we built it back up exactly as it was,” she says.
Still enamored with the building process after her many years working in interior design, Wiley enjoyed chatting with the workers every day while observing their progress, Peterson recalls, and she was lucky enough to see the project come to fruition before she passed away. “Every morning the crew would come in and say, "Good morning, Connie; good morning, Madam Mayor,” Peterson recalls. “It was the greatest last year of her life that she could ever have had.”
When she’s not in New York City, Peterson now lives part of the year at the lagoon house, where she still loves living a life on the water. The family recently held a memorial gathering for Wiley at the home, attended by many friends and community members — and of course, the Hadleys. Just like days gone by, the kids splashed in the water while the adults gathered on the dock, deck and in the new sunroom, enjoying the home as it was always meant to be enjoyed.
Life on the Belvedere Lagoon is perfect for family and friend gatherings.
The sunroom protects from wind and extreme sun exposure.
Located in the very heart of Silicon Valley with outstanding Los Gatos schools, this artistically curated and designed home by Native Elements evokes the historical rancho days of California. And yes! You can keep your horses and chickens here too. Lovingly and attentively redesigned for maximum comfort, utility, versatility, and aesthetics, this single-story home with its flowing open concept design comes complete with modern touches and conveniences, including gourmet kitchen with stainless steel appliances, generous prep space, and abundant cabinetry, seamlessly integrating with the adjacent dining area for effortless entertaining. The rustic and charming living room is poised to host your special memories. Family room area has fluid tranquility that offers space to create. Five well-appointed bedrooms, one of which offers added privacy for guests or home office use. Master has lovely views, spacious walk-closet and access to side yard. This home also features a butler’s pantry, mudroom, spacious workshop, freestanding toolshed, hobby room, and a delightful ADU. Morning coffee awaits in the private front yard with views to the east. Exit out back to discover the outdoor oasis, with a courtyard, an inviting dipping pool, and adjacent seating area. Enjoy idyllic, memorable evenings and romantic western views while dining al fresco: vintage redwood grape stake fencing and native plants complement the beautiful oaks that frame the spectacular sunset. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the outdoor shower, spacious equipment storage and ample parking for a trailer/boat. Price Upon Request
NATHERA MAWLA
M: 408.348.8303
NATHERA MAWLA
nmawla@cbnorcal.com
M: 408.348.8303
NATHERA MAWLA
M: 408.348.8303
nmawla@cbnorcal.com
CalRE #00786544
nmawla@cbnorcal.com
CalRE #00786544
CalRE #00786544
29 Mt. Foraker Drive, San Rafael
5 BD | 2 BA | 1,990 SF | $2,199,000 29mtforakerdr.com
5 Elm Avenue, Kentfield
Triplex: (2) 1 BD | 1 BA Units | 695 SF each + 2 BD | 1 BA Unit | 800 SF $1,635,000 | 5elmtriplex.com
Well-maintained Kentfield triplex with updated interiors, laundry, and garage parking near top schools and shops.
Lori Saia Odisio
Realtor®
DRE 01249475 lori.odisio@compass.com 415.747.6707
Fall in love with this iconic Double A-Frame Eichler in Upper Lucas Valley, featuring a sunlit atrium and breathtaking views from both the front and back. Belong to an HOA with incredible amenities including a pool, tennis and pickleball courts, horse stables, and top-rated Miller Creek schools.
381-383 Locust Avenue, San Rafael
Duplex: (2) 2 BD | 1 BA Units | 895 SF each $1,340,000 | dominicanduplex.com
Dominican duplex with private yards, updated kitchens, and premier location near trails and town.
We are proud to have helped so many clients reach their real estate goals already this year. Each of these recent standout sales represents a unique success story — made possible only by the trust and partnership of our
87 Dipsea Road, Stinson Beach (pictured)
2 Beds | 2 Baths | Den | Attached Garage Extra Large Lot www.87dipsea.com
$4,995,000
170 Belvedere Ave, Stinson Beach
3 Beds | 2 Baths | Den | O ce Private Half Acre with Stunning Views www.170belvedere.com
$4,750,000
190 Ocean Parkway, Bolinas
4 Beds | 2 Baths
SF Skyline + Panoramic Ocean Views www.190oceanparkway.com
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— Shane M. | Client
Source: RealTrends, 2025
LOOKING BACK
A Battle About Battleships
Is this a mystery of history?
BY JIM WOOD
ttention Naval historians: Your input is needed; a battle over battleships may be brewing. According to the late Jim Schock, publisher of The Bridge, A Celebration the caption for the above photo of the “Ships of the Pacific Fleet” bears the date “1934”; that’s 90+ years ago and equates accurately with the bridge’s construction at that time. However, the four battleships headed to sea pose a question. Research indicates that following the Washington Disarmament Conference of 1921; no U.S. battleships were built
between 1923 and 1941. This inquiry also shows the USS Pennsylvania was commissioned in 1916; made flagship of the Pacific Fleet in 1934; and was in San Francisco in April of 1934. So she’s likely the one leading the other three battleships to training exercises off the Hawaiian Islands. Does that mean ships following the Pennsylvania were, as she was, nearly 20 years old? Or even older? And what were their names? Also, what ever happened to the USS Pennsylvania? Searches indicate she was in dry-dock during the attack on
Pearl Harbor and only slightly damaged. She then provided gunfire support for amphibious operations in the Aleutian and Marshall Islands, Saipan, Guam, Peleliu and the Philippine Islands. Then in 1945 the Pennsylvania (BB-28) was badly damaged at Okinawa and withdrawn from action prior to the end of WWII. In 1946, she was a target in the Bikini Atoll atomic bomb tests and so polluted she was eventually scuttled in deep water off the atoll in 1948 at age 32. Does that sound correct?
