AUGUST 2026
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415.383.0583 • hadleyconstruction.com • CSLB #702420 Hadley_0826_FNL.indd 3
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Your Local Lifestyle and Real Estate Specialists BowmanRealEstateGroup.com @THEBOWMANGROUP
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MARIN MATTERS Providing Marin families more of what they want
7/13/26 12:57 PM
OPENING THE DOORS TO OUR NEW NOVATO OFFICE 364 Ignacio Boulevard | Pacheco Plaza We are proud to announce the opening of our newest Vanguard Properties office in Novato, expanding our presence to better serve Northern Marin County. This new location reflects our continued commitment to providing exceptional service, local expertise, and innovative real estate solutions to our clients and community. We look forward to welcoming you to our newest office and continuing to grow with the communities we serve. — James Nunemacher, CEO and Frank Nolan, President Vanguard Properties
The value of our business is measured in the quality of the relationships we build.
BOWMAN REAL ESTATE GROUP | 415.755.1040 Team@BowmanRealEstateGroup.com DRE# 01933147
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EXCLUSIVE GUEST ACCESS
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San Francisco 343 Sansome Street San Francisco, CA 94104
San Rafael 100 Smith Ranch Road San Rafael, CA 94903
Wealthspire Advisors LLC, Fiducient Advisors LLC, Wealthspire Retirement, LLC dba Wealthspire Retirement Advisory, and certain other affiliates (collectively, "Wealthspire") are separately registered investment advisers and subsidiary companies of Wealthspire, LP. Client count reflects combined clients served by Wealthspire as of June 5, 2026. ©2026 Wealthspire
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AUGUST 2026
CONTENTS
FEATURE 36 Best of the County 2026
This issue is dedicated to the very best businesses in Marin County in several categories: Arts and Entertainment, Beauty and Wellness, Dining, Fitness, Home and Design, Philanthropy, Services and Shopping. For more than 16 years we have been celebrating the businesses that you readers deem to be the best. This year we had more than 15,000 votes cast to our online voting portal resulting in many new businesses featured in our 2026 Best of the County list.
8 AUG UST 2026
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COURTESY OF MARIN COUNTY FAIR
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MARIN
7/14/26 2:38 PM
Coral Penthouse Suite at OUTRIGGER Reef Waikiki Beach Resort
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Learn More. Earn More. OutriggerAdvisor.com
INTRODUCING OUR
7/6/26 2:14 PM
AUGUST 2026
CONTENTS
109 IN MARIN Marin’s endemic species, return of the porpoises, horses, Marin County Supervisor interview and more.
26 New in Town
Beauty Crush, Perspire Sauna Studio and Alto Tiburon Veterinary Hospital.
OUT & ABOUT
135
116 Calendar
A roundup of what to do in Marin and beyond.
COLUMNS 16 EDITOR’S NOTE
146 LOOKING BACK
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109 Travel
Staff share their favorite places to take out-of-town visitors.
122 Dine
An insider’s guide to dining and food in the Bay Area.
MARIN HOME 135 Backstory
A new chapter in Fairfax; a home is renovated for empty nesting and family visits.
ADAM ROUSE; COURTESY OF KATE URBAN
21 Currents
MARIN
7/14/26 2:39 PM
A World Away. Minutes From Home. Discover an extraordinary retreat, right in your own backyard. Nestled at the foot of the Golden Gate Bridge, the MICHELIN Two-Key Cavallo Point offers an unparalleled escape from the everyday, without the journey. And there's never been a better time to visit. Wednesday nights come alive at Farley with the return of live music with guitarist John Vicino. Come August, weekend brunch gets a spirited upgrade with our new Bloody Mary bar with all the fixings. And in September, gather around the table for Sunday Night Family Dinner featuring hearty family-style favorites like Prime Rib, Roasted Chicken, Grilled Seafood, and more.
Special Savings for Locals! 601 MURRAY CIRCLE | FORT BAKER | SAUSALITO | 844.528.5599
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Scan to save 40% on Sundays & savings through the week, or visit cavallopoint.com/locals
7/6/26 9:54 AM
PRESIDENT Nikki N. Wood nwood@marinmagazine.com
Editorial
We’ve Moved!
EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Mimi Towle DIGITAL EDITOR Jessica Gliddon MANAGING EDITOR Emma Robertson DEPARTMENT EDITOR Lotus Abrams CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Lynda Balslev, Brian Birmingham, Julie Mirocha, Kasia Pawlowska, David Sason, Grace Towle, Jim Wood, Simone Delfino Yenni EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Avery Peterson INTERNS Layla Bakhshandeh, Logan Scully, Kate Urban
Art ART DIRECTOR Liz Marken Fiorentino PRODUCTION DIRECTOR Alex French CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Tim Porter, Adam Rouse, Matt Spinetta | Prismic Photography COVER Dave Urban
Administration CONTROLLER Maeve Walsh
Co-Founders Jim Wood, Nikki N. Wood
Though the location has changed, our commitment to comprehensive, compassionate care remains the same…
Volume 22, Issue 8. Marin Magazine is published in Marin County by 270 Media LLC. All rights reserved. Copyright ©2026. Reproduction of Marin Magazine content is prohibited without the expressed, written consent of 270 Media LLC. Unsolicited materials cannot be returned. Marin Magazine reserves the right to refuse to publish any advertisement deemed detrimental to the best interests of the community or that is in questionable taste. Marin Magazine is mailed monthly to homes and businesses in Marin Count y. Marin (USPS 024-898) is published monthly by 270 Media LLC, 2330 Marinship, Suite 300, Sausalito, CA 94965. Periodicals Postage Paid at Sausalito, CA, and at additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to 270 Media LLC, PO Box 50, Lincolnshire, IL 60069.
Visit us at 1048 Redwood Hwy, Mill Valley
altotiburon.com
(415) 383-7700
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MARIN
7/13/26 8:30 AM
Schooners at Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa
InterContinental The Clement Monterey
Enjoy
the best of Monterey on
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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.
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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 ACCOUNT MANAGER Brittany Casciotti brittany@270media.com ADVERTISING ART MANAGER Alex French ADVERTISING AND CREATIVE COORDINATOR Hayley Swanson MARKETING SPECIALIST Helena Grant
Regional Sales Offices TAHOE Karen Fraser: kfraser@270-media.com
• Luxury Cabinetry & Appliances • Expert Designers • Full-Service Design & Construction
SONOMA Lesley Cesare: lcesare@marinmagazine.com
Visit Our Showroom 1241 Andersen Drive, San Rafael, CA 415-454-1623 • lampertikitchens.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 2330 Marinship Way, Suite 300, Sausalito, CA 94965 INQUIRIES: editorial@marinmagazine.com subscriptions@marinmagazine.com 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. SUBSCRIPTIONS: Rates are $12 for out-of-state subscriptions or free for California subscribers. To subscribe, manage your subscription or change your address visit marinmagazine.com/subscribe. BULK ORDERS For information on bulk orders of Marin Magazine, please call 415.332.4800.
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“Marin County families have trusted and relied on us for over 30 years.” Lily Taft Richard, CFA - Managing Partner
Forbes
TOP RIA FIRMS 2026 SHOOK RESEARCH
Sausalito
Minimum relationship: $1M
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Main Street Research is a registered investment adviser. Registration of an investment advisor does not imply any level of skill or training, and you should not choose an investment advisor solely on the basis of its status as a registered investment adviser. Further information about Main Street's business operations, services, and fess can be found in our Form ADV available in the SEC's website at www.adviserinfo.sec.gov or provided by Main Street upon written request.| Barron's 2025 rankings are based on data provided by around 6,000 of the nation's most productive advisors. Factors included in the rankings: assets under management, revenue produced for the firm, regulatory record, quality of practice, and philanthropic work. Main Street is independent and unaffiliated with Barron's and did not pay a fee to be included in the rankings. The ratings are not indicative of future performance. | Main Street Research is independent of and unaffiliated with Forbes Magazine. The ranking noted was given based on specific criteria and methodology defined by Forbes Magazine. Main Street Research did not pay a fee to be included in the ranking database. The Forbes ranking of America’s Top RIA Firms, developed by SHOOK Research, is based on an algorithm of qualitative criteria, mostly gained through telephone, virtual and in-person due diligence interviews, and quantitative data. The algorithm weighs factors like revenue trends, assets under management, compliance records, industry experience, and those that encompass best practices and approach to working with clients. Portfolio performance is not a criterion due to varying client objectives and lack of audited data. Neither Forbes nor SHOOK receive a fee in exchange for rankings. The ranking may not be representative of any one client’s experience because it reflects an average of all, or sample of all, the experiences of an adviser’s clients. Main Street’s receipt of such a ranking should not be considered a guarantee of future performance or results.
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E D I TO R ' S L E T T E R
Marin Magazine staffers enjoying lunch at Fish., the Readers’ Choice for Best Seafood.
CELEBRATING
THE BEST OF THE BEST
C
ONGRATULATIONS to the 1,061 businesses that are part of our 2026 Best of the County! If you are one of these businesses, your company had to get at least 10 votes to stay on the list. These small and large companies range from architect firms to nail salons; together they make Marin County the best place to live. Once the dust settles (post happy dance), we’d love to learn more about you and your team. Last year, we got a few awesome videos sent to us from Cue the Core, Dynamic Energy Crystals, Lifehouse, Orange Theory Greenbrae, Metta Yoga and Love Living Lighter. You can see them on our YouTube channel, and if you scroll back on Marin Magazine’s Instagram. This year, we’d love to get more. Don’t worry about hiring a professional film crew — it’s simply fun to see people opening their doors and introducing themselves. We plan to share these throughout the year. We hope you love the cover as much as we do. Local artist and Mill Valley native Dave Urban started working with Liz, our Art Director, on this concept at the beginning of last year, and we love the results. I hope you like the cute red bird that can be spotted in a few places. Liz moved it there from another part of the map early on, and we all became attached. Another fun item to look for are the names of Dave’s daughters Kate and Cal. Kate is one of our interns this summer (check out her photo with her dad from the Cavallo Point Kickoff party on page 132). Dave has done many amazing illustrations for us through the years, including Angel Island, Mount Tam and Point Reyes for our summer guides. When he came into the office last spring, he told us a little secret that in every single illustration he adds his daughters’ names. So here’s a fun game — we challenge you to find Dave’s little Easter eggs and
email us a photo to editorial@marinmagazine.com. The first person who succeeds will get a signed map from Dave! Along with the cover, you’ll find our new official Best of the County logo. In the 12 years of this feature, we’ve had about nine different logos — not optimal for branding. Hence, Dave was also asked to create a reusable memorable WHAT I LEARNED brand. Curious about the past options? THIS ISSUE: Managing Editor Emma Robertson “I hadn’t really thought pulled together a history of the Best of what a county administrathe County, which puts our former lack tor’s job would entail. As a of foresight and marketing acumen on 20-something native Marinite, I really love when Derek display — it’s a fun read. Johnson said ‘we don’t have There was no question that we planned change, we experiwould use a real human to create our ence unplanned decay.’ I cover art. However, we did successhope people are reading fully lean into AI to help decipher the and sharing this!” various write-ins at the beginning of — Hayley Swanson, the year, as well as a couple of otherAdvertising & Creative Coordinator spreadsheet tasks. As publishers we are aware that everything we’ve created is being utilized to answer user questions about Marin, or anything from our sister publications, and are now leaning in to utilize AI to help us, not distract us. We’d love to hear from you about ways that you might have found Claude, ChatGPT or Gemini have helped to streamline your life or business. As always, we love hearing from you via email and on the socials. Cheers to the Best County on the planet!
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LETTERS FR O M
July’s ‘Aging at Home’ Article “Bill Jones made the suggestion that his dinner guests write their own obituaries. What a wonderful idea — one that I personally completed 10 years ago and encouraged other friends and relatives to do as well. When I shared my own, the response was unanimously positive. What others learned was what was most important and memorable to me in my life, and many were surprised by things they never knew about me. The only downside to this experience was the inability to get others to do the same! Fortunately, Bill used the wise strategy of making it a dinner requirement.”
BOWS TO BAGELS
VINTAGE OAKS HAS IT
Bruce Hopper, San Rafael
July Issue’s ‘Looking Back’ “Jim Wood’s sensational series of historic ‘Looking Back’ photos are always icing on the Marin Magazine cake. The July 2026 ‘Sausalito circa 1925’ must actually have been snapped after 1928. The first auto on the left is a Model A Ford. A Fords were manufactured from 1928–1931. We are looking at a ’30 or ’31. I own a ’31 A myself; I am not a club member. Ah...oooga.” Derek Van Loan, Mill Valley
Marin Beauty Company, Snipz, Starbucks and over 55 other stores, restaurants and services
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.
Rowland Blvd Exit, Highway 101
ShopVintageOaks.com
@marinmagazine
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SAUSALITO HISTORICAL SOCIETY
Want to read more about Marin? Join our weekly community newsletter and be the first to know what’s happening in and around the county.
DINE, SHOP, STROLL & ENJOY WHIMSICAL ART INSTALLATIONS
MARIN
7/14/26 2:40 PM
SAVING FACE AFTER RAPID WEIGHT LOSS
A thoughtful approach to restoring skin quality and facial harmony. As GLP-1 medications have transformed the weight-loss conversation, many patients experience changes often referred to as “Ozempic Face.” But the journey doesn’t end when the weight comes oL—it continues in the mirror. Rapid weight loss can accelerate changes in skin quality, facial volume, and elasticity. At Hayes Valley Medical Esthetics (HVME), we help patients navigate these changes with personalized care that supports collagen production, improves skin quality, and enhances facial harmony. Our approach combines regenerative medicine, collagen stimulation, and advanced technologies—including Scarlet Pro™, PLADUOpro™ plasma technology, and I-LASER 1940nm—with customized treatment plans. Equally important is a focus on nutrition, protein intake, and muscle preservation to help patients maintain strength, support healthy facial and body composition, and achieve balanced, natural-looking results.
"The most natural-looking results come from improving skin quality and restoring balance — not simply replacing volume." — Linda Behla, RN, Founder & Clinical Director
Beautiful outcomes come from a personalized approach—not a single treatment.
We’re honored to be recognized by Marin Magazine readers and grateful for the trust our patients have placed in us over the past two decades. Those long-standing relationships— and the confidence our patients place in our team every day —remain our greatest achievement.
W here B eauty M eets S cience. Hayes Valley 628-277-5035
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Cow Hollow 628-244-3312
@hayesvalleymed Larkspur 628-232-6853
7/14/26 11:09 AM
A BETTER WAY TO LEAVE YOUR MARK
The Imprint Legacy Fund
When creating a philanthropic legacy through your estate, two things are paramount. You want peace of mind that your intentions will be both honored and precisely fulfilled. And you want a plan designed to your unique wishes. Imprint, MCF’s legacy program, delivers, creating an indelible architecture of your lasting philanthropy. With no start-up costs, attorney fees, or amendment fees, producing lasting impact has never been easier. Let’s get the conversation going at marincf.org/imprint
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PEOPLE PLACES CAUSES
CURRENTS The Tiburon Open Space Preserve is one of only two places to see the Tiburon Jewelflower.
MARIN
TIM PORTER
Native
One of Marin’s greatest attributes is its nature. From plants to animals, there’s a wide variety — including plenty that are native to only Marin. Keep reading to learn more. BY K A S I A PAW LO W S K A
MARIN
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C U R R E N T S N AT U R E
MARIN NATIVE, CONTINUED
W
HEN SOMETHING IS RARE, be it a comic book or caviar, it incites desire and panic. We crave and obsess about these limited things, hoping that maybe by proximity we will also be unique. If those are your sentiments, you’re in luck. Here’s a collection of flora and fauna that are exclusive to Marin County, all bearing the names of their native land.
Ring Mountain Preserve
ANGEL ISLAND MOLE
Scapanus latimanus insularis
MOUNT TAMALPAIS MANZANITA
POINT REYES MOUNTAIN BEAVER
Arctostaphylos montana
Aplodontia rufa phaea
TIBURON JEWELFLOWER
TIBURON MARIPOSA LILY
Streptanthus niger
Calochortus tiburonensis
IN THE WATER
The Return of the Harbor Porpoise BY G R AC E TO W L E A N D J U L I E M I R O C H A
I
T’S A SHARK, it’s a dolphin ... no wait, it’s a harbor porpoise. After more than 80 years, the once common harbor porpoise has returned, and now they can be spotted all over the Bay.
According to Bill Keener, The Marine Mammal Center’s go-to porpoise expert, harbor porpoises are in the Bay year-round and keep to a loose schedule based on the tides, but their presence also depends on the mix of currents and prey fish. The reappearance of harbor porpoise in the Bay is a reason to celebrate successes in water quality restoration from the Clean Air and Water Acts of the 1960s and 70s. While they still face threats in other regions from fishing nets and pollution, for now the almost 300 harbor porpoises who make the Bay their home are living happily ever after.
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Best places to Spot Harbor Porpoises in Marin From Bill Keener The Golden Gate Bridge’s pedestrian walkway. Walking slowly all the way across and taking time to scan below frequently, will almost always result in a few sightings at high tide. Cavallo Point, just south of the Bay Area Discovery Museum, is a good place to observe porpoises — they may get to within 50 feet of the rocks. If you’re on a boat, look for them in Raccoon Strait and Belvedere Point . Pro Tips: High tide is best. Sometimes you will notice gulls hovering above an actively feeding porpoise, hoping to steal some scraps. Bring binoculars.
TOP: AWINCH1001; MIDDLE, L TO R: QUIMFONT CC-BY-NC 4.0; TOM HILTON, CC BY 2.0 VIA WIKIMEDIA COMMONS; STEVE REDMAN (MORA); TIM PORTER; TOM HILTON, CC BY 2.0 VIA WIKIMEDIA COMMONS; BOTTOM: BILL KEENER
MARIN’S ENDEMIC SPECIES
MARIN
7/14/26 2:41 PM
Rooted in Care. Refined Execution. EACH SALE REPRESENTS MORE THAN A TRANSACTION IT’S A RELATIONSHIP, A STRATEGY, AND A SHARED VISION FOR WHAT’S NEXT.
Significant Sales BELVEDERE & TIBURON 1
308 Golden Gate Avenue Belvedere
2
140 Bella Vista Avenue Belvedere
3
25 Old Landing Road Tiburon
4
9 Fern Avenue Belvedere
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246 Bayview Avenue Belvedere
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1916 Mar West Street Tiburon
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13 Lagoon Vista Road Tiburon
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2 5 1
“
7 6
Stefan is extremely hard-working, thoughtful, and kind. He has a magnetic personality that buyers and sellers alike can trust. I will always be grateful to him for how much he helped us.
“
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Sold for $8.6M Seller Represented
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Sold for $3M Buyer Represented
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Susannah - Belvedere, CA
STEFAN ANGELO
$2 Billion
WARRIN TEAM STATISTICS
CAREER SALES VOLUME
#1 Team
CONSISTENTLY RANKED IN MARIN COUNTY + SAN FRANCISCO*
500+
PROPERTIES SOLD
*Among Golden Gate Sotheby’s International Realty Agents
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Water Wise BY E M M A R O B E R T S O N
W
HEN THE HEAT of the summer starts to set in and Marin’s pools and beaches get busy, water safety becomes especially important. However, swimming lessons and safety classes can be costly. Luckily, some local organizations are working to close this gap. Soma Aquatics Foundation offers free swim lessons and pool access in Marin and Sonoma Counties, for both youth aged 4+ and for adults. Instructors YMCA swimming lessons and lifeguards at Soma include both volunteers and professionals. Plus, the organization encourages its swimmers to participate competitively, and even provides scholarship opportunities. Additionally, the Marin YMCA is partnering with several of the county’s school districts to identify families eligible for reduced-cost or free summer camp sessions, which includes a free weekly swim lesson.
The funding for this program also helps supply swimsuits to families that need them. To receive these benefits, contact the Marin YMCA and request financial assistance. Proof of qualification as low-income may be required.
BOOK NOW
PEEP OUR IG
113 Corte Madera Town Center, Corte Madera, CA 94925 415-521-0378 / cortemadera@facefoundrie.com YMCA swimming lessons
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COURTESY OF YMCA OF GREATER SAN FRANCISCO
Swimming lessons and safety classes can be costly.
MARIN
7/14/26 2:42 PM
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7/6/26 9:25 AM
CURRENTS NOW OPEN
FIRE UP THE BACKYARD
New In Town BY E M M A R O B E R T S O N
Beauty & Wellness Started by longtime Marin resident Karen Behnke, Beauty Crush Skincare champions organic and clean products. The products are made using Sonoma SuperGlow Grapes, grown in Beauty Crush’s own vineyard. Online only, beautycrushskin.com
Hot Days. Cool Evenings. Perfect Nights.
Keep the party going all summer long. Enjoy alfresco dining with high-quality patio heaters, artisan pizza ovens, pro-grade gas grills, & stunning fire pits.
The first Marin County location of Perspire Sauna Studio has opened in Corte Madera and offers infrared saunas, red light therapy and add-ons such as halotherapy (a.k.a. breathing in microscopic salt particles to help clear airways and promote relaxation). 57 Tamal Vista Blvd, Corte Madera, perspiresaunastudio.com
For 30+ years, Alfresco Heating’s quality gas/electric patio heaters & products have kept Bay Area residents cozy, every season.
quality patio heaters & installation Free virtual consultation: 415-884-2880 glow@alfresco-heating.com CL#870395
Outdoor Warmth, All Year Round
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Alto Tiburon Veterinary Hospital now resides in its new Mill Valley home. This fullservice hospital specializes in preventative care and is known for taking great care of your pet; it’s even on Best of the County this year for Best Vet. 1048 Redwood Highway Frontage Rd, Mill Valley, altotiburon.com
Alto Tiburon Veterinary Hospital
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TOP: PERSPIRE SAUNA STUDIO; BOTTOM: COURTESY OF ALTO TIBURON
Work & Play
Contact us today for expert guidance,
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Perspire Sauna Studio
MARIN
7/13/26 8:47 AM
P R O M OT I O N
The scoop on Bay Area events you’ll want to attend
[UPCOMING EVENTS]
SOUND SUMMIT WHEN
Sept 12, Doors: 10:30 a.m. Music: 11:30 a.m.
WHERE
Mountain Theater, Mount Tam
WHY YOU SHOULD GO
2026 MILL VALLEY FALL ARTS FESTIVAL WHEN
Sept 19-20, 10 a.m. -5 p.m.
WHERE
Old Mill Park, Mill Valley
WHY YOU SHOULD GO
COST
FIND OUT MORE
The Mill Valley Fall Arts Festival returns to Old Mill Park beneath the redwoods, showcasing fine art and crafts by 135 talented, juried artists. A cherished Marin tradition for 69 years, the festival supports youth and emerging artists and features a fantastic lineup of live music, children’s activities, community mural painting, wine tasting, food, a new VIP experience, and more — all creating a vibrant weekend of fine art and community connection. Adults: $15-$25; Free: Children, Students, and Teachers (w/ ID) MVFAF.org
COST FIND OUT MORE
Sound Summit returns with an unforgettable day of music and breathtaking views from the historic Mountain Theater. Headlined by Father John Misty, this year’s lineup also features Guster, Jerry Harrison’s 50 Years of Talking Heads, La Luz, and Angeline Saris & The Snack Machine. The festival supports Mount Tam conservation efforts. Adults: $149.50; 12 and under: $74.75; Children under 2: Free soundsummit.net
NBCC’S 37TH ANNUAL GALA WHEN
September 19th, 5 p.m.
WHERE
The Barn at Gambonini Family Ranch, 7325 Old Lakeville Road No. 3, Petaluma
WHY YOU SHOULD GO
COST FIND OUT MORE
Join us for A Night in Tuscany, an unforgettable evening of fine food, wine, and community—all in support of North Bay Children’s Center. This year, we are honored to recognize Chef Dustin Valette, Chef/Owner of Valette, The Matheson, Roof 106, Valette Wines, as our 2026 Champion for Children. Be part of the North Bay’s hottest event of the year! $175/ticket, $2,000/table of 10 nbcc.net/nit, 415.475.6767
Want to see all the images from our RSVP Hot Ticket events? Visit marinmagazine.com/arts-events/on-the-scene
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7/13/26 8:42 AM
The Phoenix Used Bookshop
Larkspur is now home to Marin’s newest bookstore, The Phoenix Used Bookshop. It’s tiny but mighty, at only about five feet wide, but with plenty of options geared towards kids and teens. All books sold at The Phoenix were donated by the community, and it’ll never say no to more books if you’ve got a few to donate yourself. 501 Magnolia Ave, Larkspur, phoenixusedbookshop.com
Together we can make a REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN!
33rd Annual Spirit of Marin Awards Luncheon
Refine Dance Collective was born out of owner Sloan Takeuchi-Ross’s passion for dance. The studio’s training approach is rooted in dance history, and celebrates the ways in which this history has shaped modern dance. 1559 S. Novato Blvd, Suite C-1, Novato, refinedancecollective.com
Thursday, September 17, 2026 10:30 am - 1:30 pm The Clubhouse at Peacock Gap 333 Biscayne Drive, San Rafael CA 94901
The Spirit of Marin Award recognizes the achievements and volunteer spirit of local businesses and business citizens as chosen by the Marin County Chambers of Commerce.
SDI Insulation and SDI Fireplaces Inc.
Register by September 1 at SpiritofMarin.com
SDI Insulation and SDI Fireplaces Inc. has been a longtime Bay Area favorite for creating comfortable homes, and it now has an even stronger presence in Marin thanks to its recently opened office in San Rafael. 999 Andersen Dr, Suite #110, San Rafael, sdi-insulation.com
Register today!
Member FDIC
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Read more of what’s new in town here.
TOP: STEF TOUSIGNANT; BOTTOM: SDI INSULATION
Join us Thursday, September 17, as we celebrate this year’s honorees at Bank of Marin’s 33rd annual awards luncheon!
MARIN
7/13/26 8:47 AM
A Day of Golf. A Lifetime of Impact.
Play. Sponsor. Make a lasting impact on the health of Marin families. For more than 50 years, Marin Community Clinics has provided high-quality healthcare for Marin families. Today, we serve 38,221 patients—nearly 1 in 6 Marin County residents—with medical, dental, behavioral health, and specialty care.
MCC IMPACT
Our Whole Family Care approach recognizes that caring for one person strengthens entire families—and healthier families strengthen our community.
patients served
Join us on August 31, 2026, at StoneTree Golf Club, Novato. Every golfer and sponsor helps expand access to compassionate, high-quality healthcare across Marin County.
SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
WHAT TO EXPECT
Sponsorships from $1,200 to $25,000 provide valuable visibility while advancing access to healthcare for Marin families. Connect with business and community leaders while supporting one of Marin County’s largest nonprofit healthcare providers. Whether you sponsor, play, or both, you’ll help improve lives close to home.
■ Premier golf at StoneTree Golf Club ■ Food, beverages, and hospitality ■ Networking with Marin’s business and community leaders ■ On-course contests, prizes, and awards ■ Support healthcare that changes lives locally
38,221
Nearly 1 in 6 Marin County residents
236,000+ visits annually
93.4%
insured through Medicaid or Medicare
Every Swing Helps Expand Access to Care. SCAN QR CODE
JOIN US. PLAY A ROUND. CHANGE A LIFE. Marin Community Clinics Golf Classic Monday, August 31, 2026 StoneTree Golf Club | Novato Register to Play • Become a Sponsor • Learn More events@marinclinic.org
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(415) 475-4566 TO SPONSOR OR PLAY
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CURRENTS FIRST PERSON
PERSPECTIVE
A Marin Homecoming On Horseback A lifelong lover of horses and the Marin Headlands reflects on her path from child equestrian to volunteer park ranger. T E X T BY A N D P H OTO S C O U R T E S Y O F S I M O N E D E L F I N O Y E N N I
Simone (age 8) with her mother Jane after winning a third place ribbon during a Miwok horse show.
Out on the Coastal Trail riding patrol horse, Irish Red.
I
grew up in Mill Valley with dirt under my nails, pulling crawfish out of cold creek water using pieces of bacon tied to a string. It was the kind of analog childhood that now feels mythic. When I was 5, my family moved from San Francisco’s Richmond District to Blithedale Canyon in Mill Valley. A shift that felt, perhaps even more so back then, like stepping into another world. My mother, a hopeless romantic for all things verdant, wasted no time transforming our wooded yard into something resembling a hobby farm. There was Bacchus, our Great Pyrenees and shepherd mix, along with Pekin ducks and African Grey geese, for whom we built a pond and gazebo. It was idyllic, a little wild and entirely formative. Soon after, we discovered what would become a defining part of my upbringing: Miwok Livery. Nestled in Tennessee Valley, Miwok felt like a hidden portal into the Marin Headlands. It was there that I began taking horse-
back riding lessons and attending summer camps with then-operator and instructor Linda Rubio. I honed my skills in Englishstyle riding and fell deeply in love with the quiet rituals of the barn. When I wasn’t in the arena training or mucking out stalls, I was exploring with friends. Hours spent wandering the Tennessee Valley eventually led to a deep connection to the outdoors and an awareness of autonomy, resilience and a strong sense of self. Years later these experiences would lead me to volunteer with the Horse Mounted Patrol.
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Above: Simone in the rain, preparing to feed the horses. She and her colleagues are solely responsible for their care, year round, rain or shine!
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Create the with Airsun Productions
photo: Jim Vetter
DJ Entertainment | AV Services | Lighting
PRODUCTIONS
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[415] 407-3378 airsun@djairsun.com airsunproductions.com @djairsun
6/17/26 9:34 AM
CURRENTS FIRST PERSON
LEAVING PARADISE
Nationally recognized orthopedic care. Sutter’s Novato Community Hospital has been named one of America’s 100 best hospitals for joint replacement and orthopedic surgery. Using advanced, roboticassisted surgical techniques designed for faster healing, our orthopedic specialists can help you move like you again.
After high school, I moved from Marin to Los Angeles, and eventually New York City, where I traded open space for density, horses and headlands for traffic and subways. I spent two decades building a career and a life in cities that moved fast and demanded constant attention. I loved it. The energy, the ambition, the endless possibility. But somewhere along the way, I lost touch with that earlier, quieter part of myself. When I met my now-husband Alex, another Marin
“ When I think back to those long days at Miwok, I realize they are more than just childhood memories.” native, while we were both living in Brooklyn, I felt that pull to reconnect with home. Eventually, we returned to San Rafael to raise a family of our own. Not long after, a dear friend introduced me to the Horse Mounted Patrol program.
sutterhealth.org/ortho
GETTING BACK ON THE HORSE Established in 1976, the Horse Mounted Patrol program is run in partnership with the National Park Service out of the Presidio Riding Club in the Golden Gate National Recreation Area (GGNRA). The program currently consists of about 30 experienced equestrian volunteers who assist the National Park Service by patrolling trails on horseback, offering directions, supporting visitor safety and serving as stewards of the land. The program felt like a natural bridge between my past and present, and I felt an immediate pull to get involved. I submitted an application, added my name to the waitlist and was thrilled to get the call when a spot opened up. Onboarding began with training alongside seasoned patrol members who walked me through the full scope of responsibilities — from feeding the horses and mucking stalls to grooming, tack care, first aid and radio communication. Volunteers commit to weekly service hours and operate with the same care and professionalism as park staff. After several months of proving
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my capability, I was given a riding assessment to determine my readiness to work out on the trails. Because the program typically selects experienced equestrians, the expectations felt both familiar and grounding, and my foundation in horsemanship prepared me well. While many riders today focus solely on arena work and competitive jumping, often bypassing trail riding altogether, I was fortunate to grow up doing both. That crossover made the program feel like an especially natural fit. The first time I rode out on patrol, I was struck by the familiarity of it all. The terrain, the rhythm, the quiet communication with the horse beneath me, layered with a new sense of responsibility. As a child, riding had been about freedom. Now, it was also about service.
E AVID CR
ATIVE
COMING FULL CIRCLE Today, the Marin Headlands welcome more than 15 million visitors each year. With that comes the need for presence — not just enforcement, but education and connection. Mounted patrol volunteers help bridge that gap, offering a visible, approachable resource for visitors, while also encouraging a kind of mindfulness that feels increasingly rare in our hyperdigital world. People stop us often. They ask us about the horses, the trails, and how they might get involved. Sometimes it seems they simply want a moment to pause and connect, and to experience something a little different from the pace of everyday life. That instinct resonates deeply with me. This work has become a way of re-rooting myself in a place that has always, quietly, been home. When I think back to those long days at Miwok, I realize they are more than just childhood memories. They were the beginning of a relationship with horses, with the land, and with Marin itself. A relationship, and a part of myself, that would come full circle decades later. And next time you see one of our dedicated patrol horses — Red, Cobo and Cooper — please stop and say hello. If you’re interested in learning more about the Horse Mounted Patrol or getting involved, visit nps.gov/goga/horse-patrol.htm.
Photo taken at The Tamalpais Marin
NEVER STOP being playful For Ruth, growing older doesn't mean losing your sense of wonder. It means staying curious, making people laugh, and creating something beautiful. Your next chapter is meant to be lived fully. Read Ruth’s story at SequoiaLiving.org/Grow MARIN | PORTOLA VALLEY | SAN FRANCISCO | WALNUT CREEK
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C U R R E N T S C O N V E R S AT I O N S
CIVICS
A Conversation with Derek Johnson The County Executive for Marin. BY DAVID SASON
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MATT SPINETTA | PRISMIC PHOTOGRAPHY
W
ith the country celebrating its 250th birthday this year, there’s no better time to learn — and teach your kids — more about civics. At every level of government there are unseen public servants working each week for the benefit of residents. One of them is prodigal Marin son Derek Johnson, who succeeded longstanding administrator Matthew Hymel when he retired two years ago. Johnson grew up in the 1970s and 80s — living in the same Novato house his mom was raised in — and attended Novato High School. His favorite teacher was Mr. Harms because he “really listened, and he sparked curiosity in students at an age they think they know everything already,” recalls Johnson. He says he had a typical Marin childhood, full of sports, music and socializing — fondly remembering bonfires on Limantour (his favorite beach) and surfing throughout West Marin. Johnson remembers buying his first surfboard, at what is now Proof Lab’s Shoreline Highway location. In fact, surfing was a big draw for Johnson to choose UCSB for college. Today, with a job that now takes over 60 hours a week, he’s turned in his surfboard for a road bike, and just returned from a 720+ mile solo adventure from Astoria to Marin. Solo wasn’t the plan, but when his friends couldn’t make it, he did it anyway. Johnson’s family connection with Marin County goes back about 80 years. Thumbing through boxes of photos soon after his mom passed away, he was struck by his deep history here. Both his maternal grandparents were military officers who served in the Pacific Theater during World War II. Hamilton Army Air Base in Novato was one of the busiest bomber bases on the West Coast, and his grandfather was stationed there. Coincidentally, this photo tour down memory lane coincided with a summer course he took at Stanford in 2023, and his professor was the one who let him know of the County Administrator position in Marin. The rest is history.
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What I learned is that if we don’t have planned change, we experience unplanned decay. WHAT IS IT YOU “DO” EXACTLY, AS THE COUNTY EXECUTIVE AT THE CIVIC CENTER?
In the most basic terms, my goal is to advance the Board of Supervisors’ plans and objectives and oversee an annual budget of more than $900 million. We have more than 3,000 people working to deliver much-needed services to Marin’s population. WHAT’S AN AVERAGE WEEK LOOK LIKE?
My average week is a whole lot of meetings focused on optimizing County government to deliver the best service for Marin residents. Some of them are thick with policy decisions, and others are more conceptual. The mix keeps things interesting. I’m meeting with people who are sharing an idea or making a difference and have similar goals in mind. I love it when I have time to get out of the office and observe people from our various departments doing great work in the community. WHAT LESSONS DO YOU VALUE FROM YOUR TIME IN SAN LUIS OBISPO?
I spent 12 years working for the City of San Luis Obispo, and the last six years of that was serving as City Manager. Just like here in Marin, you’re going to have your hands in a huge variety of projects. I think the most applicable lessons I brought up here were about improving efficiencies and addressing the highest priorities set by the community and the governing body. Also working in Santa Barbara as well (which, like SLO and Marin, has a commitment to a high quality of life) there was a tension about keeping it the same vs. facilitating change. What I learned is that if we don’t have planned change, we experience unplanned decay. To keep high quality communities like Marin thriving, we need to constantly be evolving. And right now with housing pressures that are not unique to Marin, we need to be planning for the community we want, rather than it feeling like it is happening to us.
WHICH MEASURES CREATED BY MATTHEW HYMEL ARE YOU CONTINUING?
I share and deeply appreciate Matthew’s commitment to fiscal responsibility and long-term stewardship. Matthew’s leadership on maintaining the County’s strong fiscal position, advancing responsible budget practices and supporting voter-approved investments in parks, open space, emergency preparedness and essential County services are all worth recognizing. Those efforts reflect a legacy of thoughtful governance: balancing today’s service needs with the County’s obligation to remain resilient for future generations. WHAT IS DIFFERENT IN YOUR APPROACH VERSUS YOUR PREDECESSOR?
Matthew and I have different styles, which is healthy for any organization. Some people have described Matthew as the backstage manager of the band: steady, disciplined, making sure the lights work, the sound is right, the show can go on. I may be a little more comfortable as the lead singer — out front, engaging the room and trying to connect the music to the audience. But the truth is, you need both roles for the band to work. We are in a very different time now. With a mind towards the aforementioned unplanned decay concept, Santa Barbara’s State Street is a good example of the mindset of “if nothing changes everything will stay the same.” And I think for folks that are maybe not as comfortable with change, my recommendation is to realize, the change we’re talking about isn’t likely going to happen in your lifetime. We are paying it forward to the next generation. The last generation paid it forward to us and gave us an open space, it’s our turn to pay it forward with better transportation and urban housing systems. WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE TO SEE LOCALS GET MORE INVOLVED IN?
There are several important initiatives where we want and need local involvement this year and next. The first is the Economic Vitality Strategic Plan, which will help shape how Marin supports local businesses, downtowns and commercial
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Veronica Hurd, Executive Associate to the County Executive
corridors, workforce pathways, tourism, agriculture and a more resilient local economy. This work matters because economic vitality is directly connected to quality of life, public services, housing, jobs and the ability of our communities to thrive over time. We are also launching the Countywide Strategic Plan, Marin County’s first in more than 25 years. This effort will help align Board priorities, departmental workplans, budgets, capital planning, infrastructure needs, climate work, equity goals, emergency preparedness and performance reporting into a shared framework for the next several years. It is important because the County is facing complex challenges that require clearer priorities, stronger coordination and measurable results. We are also preparing for an upcoming West Marin effort that will build on local conversations about community needs, infrastructure, housing, agriculture, climate resilience, access to services and the unique character and future of West Marin communities. That work is important because West Marin has distinct needs and opportunities, and the best solutions will come from listening closely to the people who live in and serve for those communities. In each of these efforts, local voices matter. Strategic planning is not just about what government writes down; it is about how we listen, what we choose to prioritize and how we build trust and shared ownership for the future.
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NOW ME ET THE WINNE R S
It’s time to reveal our 2026 Best of County winners! This year, we’re recognizing more businesses than ever before — coming to a total of 1,061 businesses — located in both Marin County and the greater Bay Area (but still serving Marin). Congratulations to all of the businesses that help make Marin special, and if you don’t see yours, there’s always next year! I L L U S T R AT I O N S B Y DAV E U R B A N
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Arts & Entertainment Readers’ Choice:
The Gallery at Belvedere Tiburon Library 1501 Tiburon Blvd, Tiburon beltiblibrary.org
Rest of the Best ÆRENA Gallery, Mill Valley Anthony Meier, Mill Valley Art Works Downtown, San Rafael Chandler Gallery, Mill Valley C-lective Fine Arts, Sausalito Gallery Sausalito, Sausalito Julie Zener Gallery, San Anselmo Marin Society of Artists, San Rafael Robert Green Fine Arts, Mill Valley
Best Children’s Activities Readers’ Choice:
Bay Area Discovery Museum 557 McReynolds Rd, Sausalito bayareadiscoverymuseum.org
Rest of the Best AndrewsCamps, Corte Madera Elite Naach Academy (DBA Dance with E.N.A.), Greenbrae Esporterz Gaming and STEM Center, Larkspur Karma Club Teen, San Rafael Marin Ballet, San Rafael Marin Museum of Bicycling, Fairfax Splitz Dance Academy, Novato The Social Klub, Sausalito Tiburon Railroad and Ferry Depot Museum, Tiburon
Best Comedy Venues Readers’ Choice:
142 Throckmorton Theatre 142 Throckmorton Ave, Mill Valley throckmortontheatre.org
Rest of the Best Improv Marin, San Rafael Trek Winery, Novato
Best Community Events Readers’ Choice:
Marin County Fair 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, Sausalito
Best Community Theaters Readers’ Choice:
Marin Theatre
397 Miller Ave, Mill Valley marintheatre.org
Rest of the Best Marin County Fair
142 Throckmorton Theatre, Mill Valley Marin Shakespeare Company, San Rafael Mountain Play, Mill Valley Ross Valley Players, Ross Tam Valley Players, Mill Valley The Playhouse in San Anselmo, San Anselmo
Best Film Festivals Readers’ Choice:
Mill Valley Film Festival 25 Throckmorton Ave, Mill Valley mvff.com
Rest of the Best Bolinas Film Festival, Bolinas Italian Film Festival, San Rafael Marin County International Festival of Short Film & Video, San Rafael
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BY THERS NUMBE
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20+ GALLERIES & MUSEUMS 15+ THEATERS & PERFORMANCE VENUES 10+ ANNUAL FESTIVALS HUNDREDS OF LIVE EVENTS EACH YEAR
Best Live Music Venues Readers’ Choice:
Sweetwater Music Hall 19 Corte Madera Ave, Mill Valley sweetwatermusichall.com
Rest of the Best HopMonk Tavern, Novato No Name Bar, Sausalito Peri’s Tavern, Fairfax Rancho Nicasio, Nicasio
Best Local Social Media Presence Readers’ Choice:
Marin Buzz, @marin_buzz marinbuzz.com
Rest of the Best Made in Marin, @themadeinmarin Marin Lately, @marinlately Center for Domestic Peace, @centerfordomesticpeace Southern Marin Fire District, @southernmarinfire The Marin Dish, @themarindish Megan Stewart, @thespoonlist Melissa Blaustein, @sausalitomelissa
MARIN COUNTY FAIR
Best Art Galleries
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A RTS & E N TE RTA I N M E N T 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.
The Gallery at Belvedere Tiburon Library
Dr. Karen Horton, @drkarenhorton Holly Friend, @hollyfriendrealtor
Best Museums Readers’ Choice:
Angel Island Immigration Museum Angel Island aiisf.org
ELISABETTA PONTI
Rest of the Best Bolinas Museum, Bolinas China Camp Museum, San Rafael Marin History Museum, San Rafael Marin Museum of Bicycling, Fairfax Marin Museum of Contemporary Art (MarinMOCA), San Rafael
Museum of the American Indian, Novato Novato History Museum, Novato The Museum of International Propaganda, San Rafael Tiburon Railroad & Ferry Depot Museum, Tiburon
Best Music Festivals Readers’ Choice:
San Rafael PorchFest Gerstle Park, San Rafael sanrafaelporchfest.com
Rest of the Best Fairfax Festival, Fairfax Homestead Valley Music Festival, Mill Valley Sound Summit, Mill Valley
Best Outdoor Adventures Readers’ Choice:
Angel Island Tiburon Ferry 21 Main St, Tiburon angelislandferry.com
Rest of the Best Mountain Play, Mill Valley Outdoor Adventure Club, serves Marin Point Reyes Adventure Co., Point Reyes Ranch Tour at Marin Coast Ranch, Tomales Seaplane Adventures, Mill Valley Sea Trek Kayak and SUP, Sausalito Sausalito Boat Rentals, Sausalito
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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
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Beauty & Wellness Best Barbershops Readers’ Choice:
Corte Madera Barbershop 217 Corte Madera Ave, Corte Madera cortemaderabarbershop.com
Best Concierge Doctors Readers’ Choice:
Dr. Curtis Robinson, Panoramic Medicine 279 Miller Ave, Mill Valley panoramicmedicine.com
Rest of the Best Barber Lane, Larkspur Barbers Three Plus, Corte Madera Brewer Phillips Hair Design, San Rafael Drawing Room, Mill Valley Fairfax Barbershop, Fairfax Henrix Barbershop, San Anselmo LUI Mill Valley, Mill Valley The Ranch Salon, Greenbrae Shavery Barbershop, Mill Valley The Shop, San Rafael Xclusive Club Barbershop, San Rafael
Rest of the Best
Best Chiropractors
Best Cosmetic Dermatologists
Readers' Choice:
Culbertson Internal Medicine, San Anselmo Dr. Anne Cummings, Greenbrae Dr. Darcy Oikawa, BWell Functional Health & Chiropractic, Greenbrae Dr. Heidi Queen, Energize Health and Hormones, Mill Valley Dr. Irene Teper, San Rafael North Bay Private Medicine, Mill Valley
Dr. Rina Tinozzi, Tinozzi Chiropractic & Massage Studio
Readers’ Choice:
520 Tamalpais Dr, Ste 205 Cortre Madera tinozzichiropractic.com
2330 Marinship Way, Ste 370, Sausalito southernmarinderm.com
Rest of the Best
Rest of the Best
Align Chiropractic, Mill Valley Cafe of Life, Mill Valley DeSalvo Chiropractic, Novato Dr. Alex L. Brown, Mill Valley Dr. Chappy Wood, D.C., Marin Spine and Wellness Center, Corte Madera Dr. Darcy Oikawa, BWell Functional Health & Chiropractic, Greenbrae Dr. Lori Rodgers, Alavita Healing Center, Sausalito Dr. Martin Henderson, Threefold Chiropractic & Wellness Center, San Anselmo Freund Family Chiropractic, San Rafael Ron Solari, Kentfield TOPO Chiropractic, Novato
Aesthetic Dermatology & Skin Cancer, Mill Valley Laub Dermatology & Aesthetics, Mill Valley Mill Valley Dermatology, Mill Valley Schweiger Dermatology Group, Kentfield Zand Dermatology, Mill Valley
Southern Marin Dermatology
Rest of the Best Aesthetx, Greenbrae 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 Dr. Miguel Delgado, M.D., Novato Eden Day Spa, San Anselmo Ency Esthetics, Sausalito Eva Claiborne Beauty & Wellness, Tiburon Evo Spa, Mill Valley FACE FOUNDRIÉ, Corte Madera Fairfax Sugar Shack, Fairfax Gloss Beauty, Larkspur Glow Skin Marin, Larkspur Iluxe Beauty, San Rafael International Orange, Larkspur Michele Holmes Studio, Corte Madera Moonstone Skincare, Novato NorCal Plastic Surgery, Tiburon Resonance Marin, Corte Madera Sieber Plastic Surgery, Greenbrae SKIN By Jennifer Marie, San Rafael SkinSpirit, Mill Valley Soul Beauty by Melissa, San Rafael The Ritual Spa and Wellness, Sausalito Turning Point Spa, Mill Valley Zand Dermatology, Mill Valley Zoë Clark Wellness, San Rafael
Best Hair Salons Readers’ Choice:
Fox + Stone Collective
Best Facials
Multiple locations foxandstonesalon.com
Readers’ Choice:
Rest of the Best
265 Magnolia Ave, #201, Larkspur hayesvalleymed.com
Accents Salon and Spa, Corte Madera AP Luxe Salon, Mill Valley Ash Hair Co., Mill Valley Brewer Phillips Hair Design, San Rafael
Hayes Valley Medical Esthetics
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Cheveux Studio for Hair, Corte Madera Christopher Salon & Home, Tiburon Cooper Alley, Corte Madera David James, San Rafael D&O Salon, Mill Valley diPietro Todd Salon, Mill Valley Endeavor Salon, Larkspur Exhale House, Mill Valley J. Roland Salon, Sausalito Kelli Reno Elevations Mobile Salon, serves Marin Magnolia Avenue Salon, Larkspur Maison Collective, San Rafael MBS Salon, Mill Valley Michele Holmes Studio, Corte Madera MILVALI Salon & Cosmetics, Mill Valley Oyu Salon, Sausalito Revery Salon, Mill Valley Salon B, San Rafael Salon Elle, Mill Valley Salon 96 Throckmorton, Mill Valley Sproos Hair Salon, San Anselmo The Color Lounge, Fairfax The Current Marin, San Anselmo
Best Integrative/ Alternative Medicine Readers’ Choice:
Wellspring Acupuncture & Massage 21 Tamal Vista Blvd, Ste 219, Corte Madera wellspringmarin.com
Rest of the Best Balance — Women’s Health and Wellness of Marin, Mill Valley Darcy Oikawa, BWell Functional Health & Chiropractic, Greenbrae Dr. Barbara Custer, OMD, East West Optimum Health, Mill Valley Energy Healing Shaman Citlali Chevaili, serves Marin Goldfinger Acupuncture, San Rafael HEAL Marin, Greenbrae Jyzen, Mill Valley
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Marin Joint Health, Novato Marin Integrative Recovery, Kentfield On Point Acupuncture, Sausalito Tao Natural Healing, San Rafael The Holistic Counseling Center, San Anselmo
Best Massages Readers’ Choice:
Evo Spa
800 Redwood Hwy, Ste 216, Mill Valley evo-spa.com
Rest of the Best Align Chiropractic Studio, Mill Valley Almonte Spa, Mill Valley Bodywise Massage, San Rafael Cavallo Point, Sausalito Daniel Spain Massage & Bodywork, Novato Dr. Rina Tinozzi, Tinozzi Chiropractic & Massage Studio, Corte Madera Eden Day Spa, San Anselmo Golden Island Massage, San Rafael HELLO MODERN, San Rafael International Orange, Larkspur Majestic Thai Spa, Novato Resonance Marin, Corte Madera The Ritual Spa and Wellness, Sausalito Turning Point Spa, Mill Valley Wellspring Acupuncture & Massage, Corte Madera
Best Massage Therapists Readers’ Choice:
Alexa Mimeles Massage
608 Eastwood Way, Mill Valley alexamimeles.com
Rest of the Best Katherine Edwards Yoga & Massage, Corte Madera Kari Iverson, HELLO MODERN, San Rafael Nasrin Nahidi, Eden Day Spa, San Anselmo
Best Med Spas Readers’ Choice:
Bare Skin Marin
901 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, Kentfield bareskinmarin.com
Rest of the Best Aesthetx, Greenbrae Alchemy Marin, San Rafael Belle Marin Aesthetic Medicine, Mill Valley Elevate Medical Aesthetics + Wellness, Mill Valley Haus of Marin Medical Aesthetics, Corte Madera Hayes Valley Medical Esthetics, Larkspur Marin Medical Aesthetics, San Anselmo Morpheus Medical Aesthetics, Sausalito NorCal Plastic Surgery, Tiburon ParlourRx, Sausalito Plastic Surgery Specialists, Greenbrae Sieber Plastic Surgery, Greenbrae SkinSpirit, Mill Valley Skin Suite Marin, Mill Valley
Best Nail Salons Readers’ Choice:
Marlowe
2245 Larkspur Landing Cir, Larkspur hellomarlowe.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 Chloe Nails & Spa, San Anselmo 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 Nails By Kim, San Rafael Nail Motif, Mill Valley New Look Nails, Sausalito 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 Tulip Nails, San Rafael Wonder Nails by Anna Nguyen, San Rafael
SPONSOR
Best Plastic Surgeons Readers’ Choice:
Dr. Arman T. Serebrakian, M.D. 1000 Magnolia Ave, Larkspur @dr.serebrakian
Rest of the Best Dr. Armen Serebrakian, M.D., Bay Area Laser Cosmetic Surgery Center, San Rafael Dr. Bao Tran, Aesthetx, Greenbrae Dr. Cynthia M. Goodman, M.D., Larkspur Dr. David Sieber, M.D., Sieber Plastic Surgery, Greebrae Dr. Khashayar Mohebali, M.D, Mohebali Plastic Surgery, Corte Madera Dr. Miguel Delgado, M.D., Novato Dr. Timothy Rankin, M.D., FACS, Nor Cal Plastic Surgery Dr. Yngvar Hvistendahl, Plastic Surgery Specialty Group, Greenbrae
Best Spas Readers’ Choice:
Cavallo Point
601 Murray Cir, Fort Baker, Sausalito cavallopoint.com
Rest of the Best Casa Madrona, Sausalito Eden Day Spa, San Anselmo Evo Spa, Mill Valley International Orange, Larkspur Resonance Marin, Corte Madera The Ritual Spa and Wellness, Sausalito Turning Point Spa, Mill Valley
MARIN
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BEAU T Y & W E LLN E S S
RETRANSFORM AGING with CuttingEdge Technology and Personalized Expert Guidance, Delivering Transformative Aesthetic Results. Thena Holmen, RN brings 40+ years of aesthetic expertise from the Bay Area’s leading plastic surgeons to Skin Suite Marin — home of The Fotona Laser Center of Excellence. Minimally Invasive Aesthetic & Dermatologic Treatments Personally Tailored to Your Anti-Aging Needs: • Neurotoxins • Dermal Fillers • Natural, Nonsurgical Facelift Alternative • Skin Resurfacing–Microneedling • Acne & Scar Revision • Facial Lifting & Tightening • Melasma & Pigment Removal • Tattoo Removal • Body Contouring & Tightening • Vein & Vascular Removal • Hair Restoration & Hair Removal • Laser Eye Lift & Lip Enhancement • Snoring NightLase • Muscle Conditioning • Feminine Wellness–Pelvic Floor Health Skin Suite Marin | Mill Valley, CA 415.881.6001 | skinsuitemarin.com
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Dining Readers’ Choice:
Hook Fish Co.
254 Shoreline Hwy, Mill Valley hookfishco.com
Rest of the Best Angelino Restaurant, Sausalito Beso Bistro, Novato Blue Barn, multiple locations Bungalow 44, Mill Valley Cucina sa, San Anselmo Cultivar, Sausalito Depot Café & Bookstore, Mill Valley Fish., Sausalito Malibu Farm, Tiburon Perry’s on Magnolia, Larkspur Piatti, Mill Valley Piazza D’Angelo, Mill Valley Playa, Mill Valley Poggio Trattoria, Sausalito Rustic Bakery Cafe, multiple locations Salt & Pepper, Tiburon Sam’s Anchor Cafe, Tiburon Tavola Rustica, Larkspur The Junction Beer Garden & Bottle
Shop, Mill Valley The Rooftop at RH Marin, Corte Madera Valenti & Co., San Anselmo Watershed, Mill Valley
Best Bakeries Readers’ Choice:
Creekside Bakery 1719 Grant Ave, Novato creeksidebakery.com
Rest of the Best Amélie, Fairfax Babaloo Bakes, serves Marin Baked Blooms, San Rafael Bob’s Donuts, Mill Valley Bordenave’s Bakery, San Rafael Brickmaiden Breads, Point Reyes Cookies by Shannon, Kentfield Emporio Rulli, Larkspur Fire Swamp Provisions, serves Marin Flour Chylde Gluten-Free Bakery, Novato Flour Craft Bakery, multiple locations Jane/Marin, Tiburon Le Marais Bakery, multiple locations
M.H. Bread & Butter, San Anselmo Madrona Bakery, Mill Valley Nothing Bundt Cakes, Corte Madera Parkside Bakery, Stinson Beach Ponsford’s Place Bakery, San Rafael Portside Bakery, serves Marin Red Hill Cake & Pastry, San Anselmo Rustic Bakery, multiple locations SusieCakes, Greenbrae Upside, Mill Valley Victoria Bakery & Café, Greenbrae
Best Bar Dining Readers’ Choice:
The Burren House 925 4th St, San Rafael theburrenhouse.com
Rest of the Best Buckeye Roadhouse, Mill Valley Cultivar, Sausalito Corner Bar, Mill Valley Farley at Cavallo Point, Sausalito Farmshop Marin, Larkspur Finnegan’s Marin, Novato Flatiron, San Rafael Le Garage, Sausalito Perry's on Magnolia, Larkspur Playa, Mill Valley Red Rooster Brick Oven, San Rafael Restaurant Picco, Larkspur Tam Tavern, Mill Valley The Speakeasy/The Boardroom, Novato Watershed, Mill Valley
Best BBQ Readers’ Choice:
Pig in a Pickle
341 Corte Madera Town Center, Corte Madera piginapickle.com
Rest of the Best Belli Deli, Novato Forrest Fire BBQ, serves Marin Fish., Sausalito
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Kababbq Grill and Café, San Rafael Lone Mountain Barbecue, serves Marin
Best Breakfast /Brunch Readers’ Choice:
Half Day Cafe
848 College Ave, Kentfield halfdaycafe.net
Rest of the Best Bacon, Novato Barefoot Cafe, Fairfax Bayside Café, Sausalito Comforts, San Anselmo Farm House Local, Larkspur Fred’s Coffee Shop, Sausalito Garden Cafe, San Rafael Kitchen Sunnyside, Mill Valley Le Marais Bakery, multiple locations Lighthouse Café, Corte Madera Marvin’s Breakfast Club, Novato M.H. Bread & Butter, San Anselmo Miracle Mile Cafe, San Rafael Red Rooster Brick Oven, San Rafael Ryan Scott 2go Boutique Food Trailer, San Anselmo Salt & Pepper, Tiburon Shoreline Coffee Shop, Mill Valley
Best Breweries/ Taprooms Readers’ Choice:
Pond Farm Brewing 1848 4th St, San Rafael pondfarmbrewing.com
Rest of the Best Adobe Creek Brewing, Novato Best Day Brewing, Sausalito Creekside Pizza & Taproom, San Anselmo Fairfax Brewing Co., Fairfax Fieldwork Brewing, Corte Madera HopMonk Tavern, Novato Monk’s Kettle, San Rafael Tam Tavern, Mill Valley
HELENA GRANT
Best Al Fresco Dining
MARIN
7/14/26 2:52 PM
DINING SPONSOR
Buckeye Roadhouse, Mill Valley
The Junction Beer Garden & Bottle Shop, Mill Valley
Best Burgers Readers’ Choice:
Super Duper Burgers Multiple locations superduperburgers.com
MATT SPINETTA | PRISMIC PHOTOGRAPHY
Rest of the Best Beso Bistro, Novato Buckeye Roadhouse, Mill Valley Bungalow 44, Mill Valley Gott's Roadside, Greenbrae Joinery, Sausalito Monk’s Kettle, San Rafael M&G Burgers, multiple locations Napa Valley Burger Company, Sausalito Parkside Cafe, Stinson Beach Perry’s on Magnolia, Larkspur Phyllis’ Giant Burgers, San Rafael Red Rooster Brick Oven, San Rafael Roam, Corte Madera Shake Shack, Larkspur Tam Tavern, Mill Valley The Hub, San Anselmo Watershed, Mill Valley
Best Chinese Food Readers’ Choice:
DJ’s Chinese Cuisine 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 Restaurant, Tiburon Ping’s Chinese Cuisine, San Rafael Shang Hai Kitchen, Mill Valley Tommy’s Wok, Sausalito Yet Wah, San Rafael Yu Shang Mandarin Cuisine & Sushi Bar, San Rafael
multiple locations The Coffee Roastery, multiple locations Upside, Mill Valley
Best Dive Bars Readers’ Choice: Choice:
Silver Peso
450 Magnolia, Larkspur silverpesomarin.com
Rest of the Best
Multiple locations equatorcoffees.com
2am Club, Mill Valley Matteucci’s, San Anselmo No Name Bar, Sausalito Paper Mill Creek Saloon, Forest Knolls Pete’s 881 Club, San Rafael Smiley’s Saloon, Bolinas Smitty’s Bar, Sausalito
Rest of the Best
Best Fine Dining
Best Coffee Readers’ Choice:
Equator Coffees
Caffe Acri, Tiburon Dr. Insomniac’s, Novato Emporio Rulli, Larkspur Firehouse Coffee & Tea, Sausalito Fox + Kit, San Rafael Golden Gate Market Coffee Bar, San Rafael LONGWAY, San Anselmo Marin Coffee Roasters, multiple locations Peet’s Coffee, multiple locations Philz Coffee, Corte Madera Pink Owl Coffee, multiple locations Red Whale Coffee Bar,
Readers’ Choice:
Poggio Trattoria
739 Bridgeway, Sausalito poggiotrattoria.com
Rest of the Best Buckeye Roadhouse, Mill Valley Bungalow Kitchen, Tiburon Farmshop Local, Larkspur Guesthouse, Kentfield Il Davide, San Rafael Insalata’s, San Anselmo La Gastronomia di Porchetta, Fairfax Luna Blu, Tiburon
MARIN
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The Marin Dish is your go-to guide for food and fun in Marin. From buzzworthy restaurant openings and hidden wine bars to mouthwatering happy hours, can’t-miss foodie events, and live music, we uncover the places that make Marin such a vibrant place to live, dine, and explore. Founded by lifelong Marin County resident Kevin Blum, The Marin Dish celebrates the people and businesses that give the county its unique flavor. More than just a local guide, it’s a community where restaurants, bars, and small businesses share their stories, promote seasonal specials and events, and connect with an engaged audience of food lovers and local explorers. Whether you’re on the hunt for your next favorite burger, planning an unforgettable date night, or looking for the hottest event in town, The Marin Dish is here to help you make the most of Marin. The Marin Dish | Mill Valley, CA 415.290.2767 | themarindish.com
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Dining Best French Food Readers’ Choice:
Le Garage
85 Liberty Ship Way, Ste 109, Sausalito legaragesausalito.com
Rest of the Best
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 Sartaj Indian Cafe, Sausalito
Best Italian Food
Amélie, Fairfax Beso Bistro, Novato Le Marais Bakery, multiple locations Suzette, Sausalito
Readers’ Choice:
Best Ice Cream/ Frozen Yogurt
Rest of the Best
Readers’ Choice:
Fairfax Scoop
63 Broadway, Fairfax IG @fairfaxscoop
Rest of the Best Angela’s Organic Ice Cream, Mill Valley Double Rainbow @ Autistry Studios, San Rafael Lappert’s Ice Cream, multiple locations Mag’s Local Yogurt, Larkspur Mill Valley Swirl, Mill Valley San Anselmo Swirl Frozen Yogurt, San Anselmo Silbermann’s Ice Cream, San Rafael The Shack, Larkspur Tuttimelon, Novato
Best Indian Food Readers’ Choice:
Lotus Cuisine of India 812 4th St, San Rafael lotusrestaurant.com
Rest of the Best
Poggio Trattoria, Sausalito
Il Davide
901 A Street, San Rafael ildavide.net
Angelino Restaurant, Sausalito Chianti Cucina, Novato Cucina sa, San Anselmo Fradelizio’s, Fairfax La Gastronomia di Porchetta, Fairfax La Ginestra, Mill Valley Piatti, Mill Valley Piazza D’Angelo, Mill Valley Poggio Trattoria, Sausalito Red Rooster Brick Oven, San Rafael Ristorante La Toscana, San Rafael Servino Ristorante, Tiburon Sorella Caffe, Fairfax Valenti & Co., San Anselmo Via Piccola Trattoria, Tiburon The Village Italian Restaurant,Novato
Best Latin American food Readers’ Choice:
Sol Food
Multiple locations solfoodrestaurant.com
Rest of the Best
Best Mexican Food Readers’ Choice:
Mi Pueblo
Multiple locations eatmipueblomarin.com
Rest of the Best 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 Cocina Mexicana, Novato Marinitas, San Anselmo Picante, San Rafael Playa, Mill Valley Sabor a Mexico, San Rafael Sabor a Rancho Food Truck, serves Marin Taco Jane’s Restaurant & Bar, San Anselmo The Cantina, Mill Valley
Ayawaska Hilltop, Novato Cocina Antigua, multiple locations
Arti Cafe, Lagunitas Avatar’s, Sausalito
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Best Middle Eastern/ Mediterranean Food Readers’ Choice:
Insalata’s
120 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, San Anselmo insalatas.com
Rest of the Best Julie’s Hummus Bar, San Rafael Kababbq Grill & Café, San Rafael
Best Pizza Readers’ Choice:
Creekside Pizza & Taproom 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 PizzaHacker @ The Junction, Mill Valley Pizzalina, San Anselmo
DASH MINDEL
Madcap, San Anselmo Restaurant Picco, Larkspur The Caprice, Tiburon
MARIN
7/14/26 2:53 PM
Pizzeria Picco, Larkspur Poggio Trattoria, Sausalito Red Boy Pizza, Fairfax Red Boy Pizza, Larkspur Red Boy Pizza, San Rafael Red Boy Pizza, Novato Red Rooster Brick Oven, San Rafael Sandrino, Sausalito Squared Pizza, Greenbrae Stefano’s Pizza, multiple locations Tamalpie, Mill Valley Tony Tutto Pizza, Ross Watershed, Mill Valley
Best Seafood
Rest of the Best
Readers’ Choice:
Fish.
350 Harbor Dr, Sausalito 331fish.com
Rest of the Best
Best Ramen
Barrel House Tavern, Sausalito Hog Island Oyster Co., multiple locations Hook Fish Co., Mill Valley Scoma’s of Sausalito, Sausalito The Spinnaker, Sausalito Tony's Seafood Restaurant, Marshall
Readers’ Choice:
Best Steakhouses
821 B St, San Rafael uchiwaramen.com
Readers’ Choice:
Rest of the Best
15 Shoreline Hwy, Mill Valley buckeyeroadhouse.com
Uchiwa Ramen
Chonmage, San Rafael Kuro Nami Japanese Kitchen, San Anselmo Masa’s Sushi, Novato Menya Shono, San Rafael
Best Sandwiches Readers’ Choice:
Buckeye Roadhouse
Rest of the Best San Rafael Joe’s, San Rafael Show de Carnes, Sausalito The Speakeasy/The Boardroom, Novato
Best Sushi
Michael’s Sourdough Sandwiches
Readers’ Choice:
Multiple locations michaelssourdough.com
107 Caledonia St, Sausalito sushiran.com
Sushi Ran
Kamikaze Sushi Bar and Cuisine, San Rafael Keiko Fish, Larkspur Kuro Nami Japanese Kitchen, San Anselmo MaruJun, San Rafael Masa’s Sushi, Novato Oyama Sushi, Greenbrae Robata Grill & Sushi, Mill Valley Samurai Sushi, Mill Valley Shiro Kuma Sushi, San Rafael Sushi-Ko, Larkspur Sushi Tri, Novato Taki Japanese Restaurant, Novato Village Sake, Fairfax
Best Thai/Southeast Asian Food Readers’ Choice:
The Baan Thai Cuisine 726 San Anselmo Ave, San Anselmo thebaanthaicuisine.com
Rest of the Best Arawan Thai Cuisine, Sausalito Bay Thai Cuisine, San Rafael Kitti’s Place, Sausalito Laos Kitchen, San Rafael My Thai, multiple locations R'noh Thai Restaurant, Larkspur Royal Thai Restaurant, San Rafael Thai Smile, San Rafael ThaiTanic Street Food, Sausalito
Best Vegan/ Vegetarian Food Readers’ Choice: Good Earth Natural Foods Multiple locations genatural.com
Rest of the Best Active Culture Cafe, Novato Avatar's, Sausalito Café del Soul, multiple locations Flores, Corte Madera Humbowl, San Rafael Insalata's, San Anselmo Prabh Indian Kitchen, Mill Valley
Best Wine Bars Readers’ Choice:
Mog Asu Wine Bar & Bottle Shop 1 Blackfield Dr, Ste 14, Tiburon, mogasu-ca.com
Rest of the Best Bacchus & Venus, Sausalito Bar Voyage, San Anselmo Internos Beer and Wine Bar, Larkspur Squalo Vino, Tiburon Trek Winery, Novato Zinz Wine Bar, Corte Madera
KATHLEEN HARRISON
Rest of the Best Andy’s Local Market, multiple locations Antone’s East Coast Sub Shop, Mill Valley Belly Deli, San Rafael Dave’s Hot Chicken, Novato Davey Jones Deli, Sausalito Equator Coffees, multiple locations Hog Island Oyster Co., multiple locations Italian Delite Sub Sandwiches, Novato Mill Valley Market, Mill Valley Red Rooster Brick Oven, San Rafael Rocky's Quality Meats at Santa Venetia Market, San Rafael Scotty’s Market, San Rafael Woodlands Market, multiple locations Creekside Pizza & Taproom, San Anselmo
MARIN
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Fitness Readers’ Choice:
F45 Training Corte Madera 1508 Redwood Hwy, Corte Madera f45training.com/cortemadera
Rest of the Best A-Lab by The Mallory Gaston Foundation, Sausalito Body By Buresh, serves Marin BodyByBinay, serves Marin BODYROK, Corte Madera Club Evexia, Mill Valley CrossFit Novato, Novato Cue the Core, San Rafael F45 Training Novato, Novato F45 Training San Rafael, San Rafael Fit Club for Women, Corte Madera FITLAB, multiple locations Get Fit Marin, Corte Madera Heather Leigh Fit for Life, San Rafael Hot Yoga Republic, multiple locations Internal Fire Pilates, San Rafael Just B Fitness, serves Marin NOW Power Yoga, Corte Madera
Orangetheory Greenbrae, Greenbrae Orangetheory Mill Valley, Mill Valley Orangetheory Novato, Novato Pilates ProWorks, Corte Madera Pure Barre Mill Valley, Mill Valley Pure Barre Novato, Novato Pure Barre San Rafael, San Rafael Skaar Fitness, Larkspur The Dailey Method, multiple locations The Power with Grace, San Rafael The Yard at Tam Junction, Mill Valley
Best Gyms Readers’ Choice:
Club Evexia
100 Shoreline Blvd, Ste 100, Bldg A, Mill Valley clubevexia.com
Rest of the Best A-Lab by The Mallory Gaston Foundation, Sausalito Bay Club Marin, multiple locations Body Kinetics, multiple locations
F45 Training Corte Madera, Corte Madera F45 Training Novato, Novato Fit Club for Women, Corte Madera FITLAB, multiple locations FITNESS SF, Corte Madera Five Points Fitness, multiple locations 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 Coaches Readers’ Choice:
Binay Curtis, BodyByBinay Serves Marin bodybybinay.com
Best Personal Trainers Readers’ Choice:
Jordan Assadi, Club Evexia
Rest of the Best
100 Shoreline Hwy, Ste 100, Bldg A clubevexia.com/evexia-team
A-Lab by The Mallory Gaston Foundation, Sausalito
Rest of the Best Bianca Buresh, Body By Buresh, serves Marin Binay Curtis, BodyByBinay, serves Marin David Rubiano, Rubiano Fitness, Mill Valley Denzel Allen, Strength Den, Mill Valley Francie Hoffmire, 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, multiple locations Kat Blair, Club Evexia, Mill Valley Kyle Mastropole, The Bay Fitness, serves Marin Kym Jaros, The Studio Pilates Marin, San Rafael Mallory Gaston, A-Lab by The Mallory Gaston Foundation, Sausalito
Jordan Assadi, Club Evexia, Mill Valley
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Bianca Buresh, Body By Buresh, serves Marin Bria Ruben, Just B Fitness, serves Marin Evan Coleman, The Bay Fitness, serves Marin Heather Leigh Fit for Life, San Rafael John Hoeber, Body Kinetics, multiple locations Kathleen McDonough Physical Therapy, San Anselmo Leigh Claxton, Mill Valley Lori Holscher, Hot Yoga Republic, multiple locations Stein Skaar, Skaar Fitness, Larkspur Susan Ezra, serves Marin The Power with Grace, San Rafael
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MATT SPINETTA | PRISMIC PHOTOGRAPHY
Best Fitness Classes
MARIN
7/14/26 2:53 PM
F I TN E S S SPONSOR
Hot Yoga Republic
Riley Sutton, FITLAB, multiple locations Sara Swanson, F45 Training Corte Madera, Corte Madera Sarah Hester, The Studio Pilates Marin, San Rafael Sharon Gallagher-Rivera, Internal Fire Pilates, San Rafael Skaar Fitness, Larkspur Tyler Johnson, Club Evexia Mill Valley Zayda Maldonado at Ztrive with Zee, Novato
Best Pilates Studios Readers’ Choice:
Hot Yoga Republic Multiple locations hotyogarepublic.com
HILARY AND RONNY KNIGHT
Rest of the Best BODYROK, Corte Madera Body Kinetics, multiple locations Club Pilates, Novato Cue the Core, San Rafael FitWise Pilates, Mill Valley Internal Fire Pilates, San Rafael
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 Studios Readers’ Choice:
SoulCycle Marin
1601 Larkspur Landing Cir, Larkspur soul-cycle.com
Rest of the Best AndrewsCamps, San Rafael CLOUDBREAK Yoga by Metta Yoga, Sausalito Hot Yoga Republic, multiple locations Love Story Yoga, Larkspur NOW Power Yoga, Corte Madera Padma Studio, Fairfax Red Dragon Yoga, multiple locations The Studio Mill Valley, Mill Valley
OTHERO WAYS TE MOV
Rest of the Best Body Kinetics, multiple locations FITLAB, multiple locations
HIKING MT. TAM ROAD CYCLING
Best Yoga Studios
STRENGTH TRAINING
Readers’ Choice:
Metta Yoga
WATER SPORTS
Multiple locations mettayogastudio.com
OUTDOOR FITNESS CLASSES
MARIN
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TRAIL RUNNING
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 100 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 100 FiveStar 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
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Home & Design Best Flooring
John Clarke Architects
Rossington Architecture, Sausalito Sutton Suzuki Architects, Mill Valley Tyreus Design Studio, Sausalito Wade Design Architects, San Anselmo
4000 Bridgeway, Ste 304, Sausalito jcarchs.com
Best Builders
555 Francisco Blvd, San Rafael city-carpets.com
Rest of the Best
Readers’ Choice:
Rest of the Best
Readers’ Choice:
361 Architecture, Sausalito 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 Jill Benton Architects, Sausalito JMJ Studios, Larkspur Kirley Architects, Larkspur Lincoln Lighthill Architect, Mill Valley Michael Heacock Architects, Mill Valley Michael Rex Architects, Sausalito Polsky Perlstein Architects, Larkspur Richardson Pribuss Architects, Mill Valley
Hadley General Contractors, Inc.
85 Beach Rd, Belvedere Tiburon hadleyconstruction.com
Rest of the Best Cameron Lontz, Novato Clear Design & Build, San Rafael Cook Construction, San Rafael Diego Brothers, Inc., San Rafael Hamta Partners Inc., Tiburon Kasten Builders, serves Marin Lamperti Contracting & Design, San Rafael Larkspur Builders Inc., serves Marin Nestadu, Mill Valley New Dimension, Mill Valley Stroub Construction, Sausalito Summit Professional Builders, Kentfield
Readers’ Choice:
City Carpets
Architectural Design Carpets, San Rafael Fl Flooring and Design, San Rafael Floortex Design, multiple locations Ken’s Carpets & Flooring, San Rafael Rafael Floors, San Rafael The Floor Store, San Rafael
Best Home Building Resources Readers’ Choice:
Wedge Roofing Serves Marin wedgeroofing.com
Rest of the Best Alfresco Heating, Novato Gilmans Kitchens and Baths, San Rafael, Live Oak Fine Cabinetry & Millwork, Inc., San Rafael McLeran Roofing, San Rafael Scott Henderson Structural Engineering, serves Marin SDI Insulation/Fireplace, San Rafael Shiny Shed Collective, Mill Valley Studio Belmont, Novato
Best Home Organizers Readers’ Choice:
Changing Places Serves Marin changing-places.com
Rest of the Best
Gardeners' Guild Inc.
Adrienne Adler Home Organizing, San Anselmo California Space Organizers, San Rafael
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Case & Space, serves Marin Keren Geva, Organize It, serves Marin Let Nicole Do It, Novato Love Living Lighter, Mill Valley Neatly Bay, serves Marin Organized by Sumi, serves Marin Sort Marin, serves Marin The Art of Organization, serves Marin The Balanced Abode, serves Marin
Best Interior Designers Readers’ Choice:
Jennifer Wundrow Interior Design 534 Belle Ave, San Rafael jenniferwundrow.com
Rest of the Best Ann Lowengart Interiors, San Anselmo Barbra Bright Interiors, San Rafael California Daydreams, Larkspur Collected Studio, serves Marin EJ Interior Design, Tiburon Heydt Designs, Inc., Muir Beach Holly A. Kopman Design, Sausalito IDF Studio, Mill Valley Julie Rootes Interiors, Corte Madera Justine Rob Interiors, Mill Valley Kimberly Rider Interiors, San Rafael Kirsten Pike Design, Larkspur Kress Jack at Home, Mill Valley Lark + Palm Interiors, Sausalito Maison Barbara, Mill Valley Maison Blanc Design, serves Marin MAS Interior Design, serves Marin Millroad Studio, San Anselmo Pamela Lastiri Interior Design Studio, Sausalito Paulina Perrault Interior Design, Sausalito Robert Federighi Design, Novato Ruth Livingston Studio, Belvedere Saffron + Poe, Mill Valley Shiny Shed Collective, Mill Valley
COURTESY OF GARDENERS' GUILD, INC.
Best Architects
MARIN
7/14/26 2:53 PM
Shirley Parks Design, serves Marin Stacey Lapuk Interiors, serves Marin The Scale Collective, Tiburon Yami Arvelo of Moones Home, Novato
Best Kitchen/Bath Designers Readers’ Choice:
Lamperti Contracting & Design 1241 Andersen Dr, Ste A, San Rafael lampertikitchens.com
Rest of the Best California Daydreams, Larkspur Heydt Designs, Inc., Muir Beach Kitchens Inside Out, San Rafael 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, Kentfield Spacial Design, San Anselmo
Best Lighting Services Readers’ Choice:
Divine Electric and Plumbing
Best Plumbers
2935 Kerner Blvd, Ste E, San Rafael calldivine.com
Readers’ Choice:
Rest of the Best
11 Ross Ave, San Anselmo ongaroandsons.com
Artistic Lighting & Electric, Novato Boyd Lighting, Sausalito
Best Movers Readers’ Choice:
Ahmed’s Moving Express 17 Paul Dr, San Rafael ahmedsmoving.com
Rest of the Best A and P Moving, Novato Birch Circle Movers, San Rafael Earl Farnsworth Express, San Rafael Johnson & Daly Moving and Storage, San Rafael Movers of Marin, Mill Valley Moving Mountain, Novato
Best Nurseries
Best Landscape Designers
Readers’ Choice:
Readers’ Choice: Choice:
Multiple locations sloatgardens.com
Gardeners' Guild Inc. Serves Marin gardenersguild.com
Rest of the Best Blasen Landscape Architecture, San Anselmo Christian Douglas Design, serves Marin Green 17 Design, Mill Valley Integrated Design Studio, Mill Valley MK Bradley Gardens, Mill Valley Yardzen, Sausalito
Karoll Julian, Sausalito Kunst Painting, San Rafael Pierpont Painting, Corte Madera Ross Painting, San Rafael
Readers’ Choice:
Marin Color Service Multiple locations marincolorservice.com
Rest of the Best Dominic Gaidano Painting & Decorating, San Rafael E&C Painting, serves Marin
Amesos Plumbing, San Rafael Bellows Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electrical, Novato Benjamin Franklin Plumbing, Novato Burkell Plumbing, Sausalito Dan’s Plumbing & Sewer Service, San Rafael Gotelli Plumbing Company, San Rafael Mason Plumbing, San Anselmo Peter Levi Plumbing, Heating, Cooling, Drains, Novato Roto-Rooter, Novato West Coast Plumbing, serves Marin
Best Solar Services
8 Digital Dr, Ste 101, Novato solarcraft.com
Rest of the Best
Green Jeans Garden Supply, Mill Valley Ground, Belvedere Tiburon Home Grown Habitats, Novato SummerWinds Nursery, Novato Vivaio Plants, Sausalito West End Nursery, San Rafael
Best Painters
Rest of the Best
SolarCraft
Rest of the Best
Pac Solar Corporation, San Rafael SonoMarin Solar & Electric, San Rafael Sun First Solar, San Rafael
Best Tile Showrooms Readers’ Choice:
Heath Ceramics
400 Gate 5 Rd, Sausalito heathceramics.com
Rest of the Best Ceramic Tile Center, San Rafael Ceramic Tile Design, San Rafael clé tile, San Rafael Italics Tile & Stone, San Rafael North Coast Tile & Stone, serves Marin Tile Fever, Sausalito
MARIN
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SPONSOR
Ongaro & Sons
Readers’ Choice:
Sloat Garden Center
H OM ED&I NDEE S I G N
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
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Philanthropy Best Animal Care Nonprofits Readers’ Choice:
MarinArts, San Rafael Marin Society of Artists, San Rafael Sausalito Center for the Arts, Sausalito
171 Bel Marin Keys Blvd, Novato marinhumane.org
Best Community Services
Rest of the Best
Readers’ Choice:
Marin Humane
The Marine Mammal Center, Sausalito WildCare, San Rafael
St. Vincent de Paul Society of Marin
Best Arts Nonprofits
820 B St, San Rafael vinnies.org
Readers’ Choice:
Rest of the Best
Art Works Downtown 1325–1337 4th St, San Rafael artworksdowntown.org
Rest of the Best Headlands Center for the Arts, Sausalito ICB Arts Association, Sausalito
multiple locations Marin Search and Rescue, San Rafael North Marin Community Services, Novato Postpartum Support Center, San Rafael Ritter Center, San Rafael
Best Disability Care Nonprofits Readers’ Choice:
Lifehouse Agency
Bridge the Gap, Sausalito By the Bay Health, Larkspur Center for Domestic Peace, San Rafael Community Action Marin, Novato Little Wishes, San Anselmo Marin Child Care Council, San Rafael Marin Community Clincs,
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
Walk for Moms, Postpartum Support Center
Best Educational Nonprofits Readers’ Choice:
10,000 Degrees
1401 Los Gamos Dr, Ste 205, San Rafael 10000degrees.org
Rest of the Best Book Exchange of Marin, San Rafael Bridge the Gap, Sausalito Enriching Lives Through Music, San Rafael Generation Remix, serves Marin Karma Club Teen, 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
999 Third St, San Rafael vivalon.org
Atria Tamalpais Creek, Novato By the Bay Health, Larkspur Homeward Bound of Marin, Novato LilyPad Senior Assisted Living Advisors, Novato Marin Home Care, Tiburon Oakmont of Novato, Novato Seniors at Home Marin County, San Rafael Senior Helpers, San Rafael SonoMarin Senior Fitness, serves Marin St. Vincent de Paul Society of Marin, San Rafael The Bluffs at Hamilton Hill, Novato
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DESIGN TO INSPIRE STUDIOS
Rest of the Best
MARIN
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2550 Kerner Blvd, San Rafael sfmfoodbank.org
Buckles and Bling, Halleck Creek Ranch Edible Garden, Marin Art & Garden Center Golf Tournament at Meadow Club, Marin Community Clinics Great Chefs & Wineries, LifeHouse Agency In Celebration of Mothers, Center for Domestic Peace Marin Valentines Ball, North Bay Children’s Center, The Godmothers of Catholic Charities of St. Vincent’s School for Boys, Side by Side ONE Amazing Community Gala, 10,000 Degrees Pennies From Heaven, St. Vincent de Paul Society of Marin Reach for the Stars Gala, Side by Side Rising Stars Gala, Marin CASA Stepping Out to Celebrate Life, To Celebrate Life Breast Cancer Foundation Summer Solstice Fundraiser, Marin Community Clinics The Spring Fling, Narada Michael Walden Foundation Valentine Boutique & Luncheon, Adopt a Family of Marin
Rest of the Best
Best Youth Services
St. Vincent de Paul Society of Marin
Best Environmental Nonprofits Readers’ Choice:
Marin Agricultural Land Trust 145 A St, Point Reyes Station malt.org
Best Food Insecurity Nonprofits
Rest of the Best
Readers’ Choice:
Conservation Corps North Bay, San Rafael Friends of China Camp, San Rafael Friends of Corte Madera Creek Watershed, Corte Madera Richardson Bay Audubon Center & Sanctuary, Tiburon
San Francisco-Marin Food Bank
Readers’ Choice:
Community Action Marin, San Rafael ExtraFood, Kentfield North Marin Community Services, Novato St. Vincent de Paul Society of Marin, San Rafael
91 Larkspur St, San Rafael canalalliance.org
Best Fundraising Events
Rest of the Best
Readers’ Choice:
Best Family Services Nonprofits
Canal Alliance
MATT SPINETTA | PRISMIC PHOTOGRAPHY
North Marin Community Services, Novato Postpartum Support Center, San Rafael Sparkle Foundation, Novato
Adopt a Family, San Rafael Gilead House, Novato Make It Home, San Rafael Marin CASA, San Rafael Marin Child Care Council, San Rafael Marin Foster Care Association, San Rafael North Bay Children’s Center, Novato
Readers’ Choice:
Play Marin Serves Marin playmarin.org
Rest of the Best
Walk for Moms, Postpartum Support Center postpartumsc.org
Rest of the Best Annual Gala, By the Bay Health Annual Gala, Marin Health Foundation Annual Gala, Schools-Rule Marin
A-Lab by The Mallory Gaston Foundation, Sausalito Karma Club Teen, San Rafael Kids Cooking for Life, Larkspur Marin CASA, San Rafael Marin Foster Care Association, San Rafael Next Generation Scholars, San Rafael Pacific Pediatric NeuroOncology Consortium, San Rafael Performing Stars of Marin, Marin City Side by Side, San Anselmo
MARIN
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P H I LA N THR O PY 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
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Services Readers’ Choice:
Vogue Cleaners Inc. Multiple locations voguecleaners.com
Best Florists
Rest of the Best
Mill Valley Flowers
Alex's Dry Cleaning Valet, San Rafael Corte Madera Cleaners, Corte Madera L&M Cleaners, Novato Montecito Cleaners, San Rafael Pacheco Dry Cleaning, Novato
54 Throckmorton Ave, Mill Valley millvalleyflowers.com
Best Event Planners Readers’ Choice: 38north Design Co.
Best Auto Repair Readers’ Choice:
Steve's Auto Care
879 Sweetser Ave, Novato stevesautocarenovato.com
Rest of the Best A & A Automotive, Sausalito Carroceria Collision, Novato D and K Collision Repair Center, San Rafael Easy Automotive, 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
Best Car Washes Readers’ Choice:
Matt and Jeff’s Car Wash & Detail Multiple locations mattandjeffs.com
38north Design Co. 41 Azalea Ave, Fairfax 38northdesignco.com
Rest of the Best BlueWave Express Car Wash, San Rafael Ducky's Car Wash, Sausalito Novato Car Wash, Novato Shineology, multiple locations
Best Caterering/Food Delivery Services Readers’ Choice:
Siren Sisters Kitchen 1605 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, Fairfax sirensisterskitchen.com
Rest of the Best Bay Area Bespoke Events (B.A.B.E.), serves Marin Caitlin Gutierrez Events, serves Marin MTR Event Design, serves Marin The Party Queen, serves Marin
Best Event Spaces Readers’ Choice:
Marin Art and Garden Center 30 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, Ross maringarden.org
Rest of the Best A Fork Full of Earth Catering, serves Marin CaterMarin, San Rafael Chef Jayne Reichert, Sausalito Classic Culinaire, Novato Dee’s Organic Catering, San Rafael Erin Shallat Catering, serves Marin Jessie & Laurent, San Rafael Lynda Balslev, serves Marin Sage Catering, San Rafael Stacy Scott Catering, San Rafael With Thyme Provisions, serves Marin
Rest of the Best Bill and Adele Jonas Center, College of Marin, Novato Cavallo Point Lodge, Sausalito Corinthian Yacht Club, Tiburon ERIA Events, Sausalito Insalata's, San Anselmo Mill Valley Community Center, Mill Valley Osher Marin JCC, San Rafael Outdoor Art Club, Mill Valley Red Rooster Brick Oven, San Rafael
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Tam Tavern, Mill Valley The Haven at Tomales, Tomales The Pines, Sausalito
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Readers’ Choice:
Rest of the Best Bloomingayles, Mill Valley Floralounge, San Rafael Gray Rabbit, Nicasio Green Door Design, Mill Valley Ladybug Flowers, Sausalito Morning Glory Florist, Novato Passion Flowers, Mill Valley The Design Table, Fairfax The Little Flower Shop, San Anselmo Yukiko’s Floral Design Studio, Kentfield
Best Funeral Homes Readers’ Choice:
Fernwood Funeral Home, Cemetery and Crematory 301 Tennessee Valley Rd, Mill Valley fernwood.com
Rest of the Best Everis, Mill Valley Monte’s Chapel of the Hills, San Anselmo Valley Memorial Park Cemetery and Funeral Home, Novato
Best Insurance Health and Life Readers’ Choice:
New York Life, Greer Westerink Serves Marin newyorklife.com
CAMERON CRESSMAN PHOTOGRAPHY
Best Dry Cleaners
MARIN
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Rest of the Best
Rest of the Best
Rest of the Best
Cristy Jones, San Anselmo McNamara Insurance Services Inc., Novato
Alyssa Patino, serves Marin Amelia Plumb Photography, serves Marin Amy Thompson Photography, serves Marin Anna Marks Photography, serves Marin Cameron Cressman Photography, serves Marin Creative Portraiture, Fairfax Elizabeth Dixon Photography serves Marin Emilie Bers Photography, serves Marin Gina Risso Photography, serves Marin Harrison Boyd Photography, serves Marin Jamie Grenough Photography, serves Marin Jennifer Skinner Portraits, serves Marin Katie Hanrahan Photography, serves Marin Laura Reoch September Days, serves Marin Laurie Bishop, Become Studios, serves Marin Marin Family Photography, serves Marin Matt Spinetta | Prismic Photography, serves Marin Maya Rose Weddings, serves Marin Mini Anna Photography, serves Marin Neptune Bangdel Photography, serves Marin Olga Trofymets Photography, serves Marin Scott Ellison Photography, serves Marin SF Portraits by Jason Todd Photography, serves Marin Shannon Chiminiello Photography, serves Marin Taryn Beller Photography, serves Marin
Alexander Tutoring, multiple locations Headlands Preparatory School, Sausalito Karen Gee, Thinkcap Consulting, Mill Valley Learn with Alyssa, San Rafael LifeWorks Learning Center, Mill Valley Sage Educators, multiple locations Tutors of Marin, San Rafael
Best Insurance - Property and Casualty Readers’ Choice:
Cannell Insurance Group
219 E. Blithedale Ave, #2, Mill Valley cannell-insurance.com
Rest of the Best 1Broker, Matthew Tarantino, Novato Connor, Alexander and Sullivan Insurance Services, Mill Valley
Best Jewelry Repair Readers’ Choice:
Gold Rush Jewelers Multiple locations goldrushjewelers.com
Rest of the Best California Girl Fine Jewelry, San Rafael Deleuse Jewelers, Fairfax Sofia Jewelry, Mill Valley Valentino Fine Jewelers, Novato
Best Photographers Readers’ Choice:
Valeria Ferrando Photography
Serves Marin valeriaferrandophotography.com
FROM AUTO REPAIR TO FLOWER SHOPS, MARIN'S SERVICE COMMUNITY IS BUILT ON DECADES OF SHOWING UP.
Best Tutoring Readers’ Choice:
SPONSOR
Best Veterinary Services Readers’ Choice:
Fairfax Veterinary Clinic 2084 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, Fairfax fairfaxvet.com
Rest of the Best Alto Tiburon Pet Hospital, Mill Valley Animal Medical Center San Rafael, San Rafael Dr. David Innes, Cat Clinic of Mill Valley, Mill Valley Dr. Kat Olsen, Bon Air Pet Hospital, Greenbrae Dr. Mary Press, Twin Cities Veterinary Hospital, Corte Madera East San Rafael Veterinary Clinic, San Rafael Marin City Animal Hospital, Sausalito Novato Veterinary Hospital, Novato Pet Emergency & Specialty Center of Marin, San Rafael Ross Valley Veterinary Hospital, San Anselmo San Marin Animal Hospital, Novato VCA Animal Wellness Center of Marin, San Rafael West Marin Pet Hospital, Fairfax
Amy Abbett Tutoring
Use Nextdoor to build your reputation in Marin In a community like Marin, reputation matters. Neighbors talk — and increasingly, those conversations happen on Nextdoor, the essential neighborhood network, where local residents discover trusted businesses, exchange recommendations, and connect. Claim your free Business Page Join your neighborhood, find new customers, and grow your business on Nextdoor. Claim an existing page or create a new one at nextdoor.com/ create-business. Once you’re set up, neighbors can find your business, learn more about what you offer, and connect with you. Stay active and earn Faves Keep your business top of mind by sharing updates, seasonal offerings, helpful tips, and news from your business. As neighbors discover and recommend you, you can earn Faves — Nextdoor’s recognition for the local businesses communities trust and recommend most.
Scan to claim your Business Page on Nextdoor
Serves Marin amyabbett.com
MARIN
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S E RV I C E S
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Shopping Marin Alliance, serves Marin Marin Gardens, serves Marin Moonflower Cannabis Delivery, serves Marin ONA.life, serves Marin
Best Consignment/ Thrift Stores Readers’ Choice:
Bloom
1557 4th St, San Rafael yourywca.org
Rest of the Best
Book Passage
Best Bike Shops Readers’ Choice:
Mike’s Bikes
Multiple locations mikesbikes.com
Rest of the Best Above Category, Sausalito Bicycle Brüstop, Novato Solstice Bike Works, San Rafael Splitrock Tap & Wheel, Fairfax Sunshine Bicycle Center, Fairfax Tam Bikes, Mill Valley Village Peddler, Larkspur
Best Bookstores Readers’ Choice: Choice:
Book Passage
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 Café & Bookstore, Mill Valley Town Books, San Anselmo
Best Bridal Shops Readers’ Choice:
Lea Couture
237 San Anselmo Ave, San Anselmo leacouture.com
Rest of the Best Alterations Avenue, Larkspur
Best Cannabis Dispensaries/Delivery Services Readers’ Choice:
Nice Guys Delivery Serves Marin niceguysdelivery.com
ARTT Another Reclaimed Treasure from Trash, San Rafael Curate Marin, San Anselmo Encore Consignment, San Rafael Fine Estate Inc., San Rafael Golden Gate Estate Sales, Sausalito Hospice Hodgepodge, multiple locations Lola's Depot, Fairfax Marin Humane Thrift Shop, San Anselmo Sax, San Anselmo SeeSaw Children’s Consignment Shop, San Anselmo Shimmer Boutique, Fairfax Spare, San Anselmo Stella's Fine Consignments, San Anselmo Swan Dive, Corte Madera The RealReal, Larkspur TIVOLI, Sausalito Willow Grove Consignment, Sausalito
Best Eyewear Readers’ Choice:
Wink Optics
Multiple locations winkoptics.com
Rest of the Best 20/20 Optical, San Rafael Luxton Optical, Greenbrae
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Marin Eye Care, Novato Marin Optometry, Mill Valley Rims & Goggles, Mill Valley Sausalito Optometry, Sausalito
Best Gifts Readers’ Choice:
Folio
489C Magnolia Ave, Larkspur folioinvites.com
Rest of the Best Dynamic Energy Crystals, Sausalito Flourish, Tiburon Highlow Larder, Tiburon Hook House, Sausalito Jolt!, San Anselmo Made Local Marketplace Marin, Novato Makers Market, Mill Valley Poet and the Bench, Mill Valley Soxalito, Sausalito SPRIG Home & Garden, San Rafael Wild Fennel, Novato
Best Home Furnishings/ Decor Readers’ Choice:
Sunrise Home
831 B St, San Rafael sunrisehome.com
Rest of the Best Buttercup Home, Novato Highlow Larder, Tiburon Hudson Grace, Larkspur Main St. Mercantile, Tiburon McConnell Design Studio, Greenbrae RH Marin, Corte Madera Saffron + Poe, Mill Valley SALT, Sausalito SLEEP365® & Naturepedic Organic Mattress Gallery, San Rafael SPRIG Home & Garden, San Rafael SummerHouse, Mill Valley The Marin Merchant, Sausalito The Painters Place, San Anselmo
BRIAN BIRMINGHAM
Rest of the Best
MARIN
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Best Jewelry Stores
Best Men’s Clothing
Readers’ Choice:
Readers’ Choice:
80 Throckmorton, Mill Valley sofiajewelry.com
10 Bolinas Rd, Fairfax sonasdenim.com
Dogville, San Anselmo Pet Club, Corte Madera Pet Cottage, San Anselmo Pet Food Express, multiple locations Pet Pro, multiple locations
Rest of the Best
Rest of the Best
Best Surf Shops
Alix & Company, Mill Valley Ashley Morgan Designs, Ross California Girl Fine Jewelry, San Rafael Cast, Corte Madera Johann Paul Fine Jewelry, Greenbrae 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 Valentino Fine Jewelers, Novato
Famous4 Emporium, Mill Valley Fred's Nomad, Mill Valley Gene Hiller Menswear, Sausalito Louis Thomas Fine Men’s Apparel, Corte Madera Pladra, Mill Valley
Sofia Jewelry
SONAS
Proof Lab
244 Shoreline Hwy, Mill Valley prooflab.com
Rest of the Best
Mill Valley Music 320 Miller Ave, Mill Valley millvalleymusic.com
Best Toy Stores
Best Kids’ Clothing
Rest of the Best
Readers’ Choice:
Readers’ Choice:
Red Devil Records, San Rafael Watt's Music, Novato
SeeSaw Children’s Consignment Shop
Readers’ Choice: Choice:
Best Pet Stores
722 San Anselmo Ave, San Anselmo seesaw4kids.com
Readers’ Choice:
Rest of the Best
Multiple locations woodlands.pet
Poppy Store, Larkspur Soda Pop, Novato Sprout San Francisco, Mill Valley
Rest of the Best Best Friends Pet Supplies, Sausalito Brownie’s Pet Boutique, Larkspur
Five Little Monkeys Multiple locations 5littlemonkeys.com
Rest of the Best
Woodlands Pet Food & Treats
A Child’s Delight, Corte Madera Fairfax Variety, Fairfax Games People Play, Sausalito Tantrum, Mill Valley Toy Crazy, Larkspur
Best Women’s Clothing Readers’ Choice:
Bella
Multiple locations bellamarin.com Citrine
MELISSA MCARDLE
Rest of the Best Barcelino Per Donna, Sausalito Citrine, Larkspur ELI, Mill Valley Main St. Mercantile, Tiburon Margaret O’Leary, Mill Valley Nicolette, Larkspur North and Golden, San Rafael Rebecca Bruce, Sausalito Shunzi, San Rafael The Edit, Mill Valley The Store, Mill Valley Viva Diva Boutique, Corte Madera
MARIN
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SPONSOR
Readers’ Choice:
101 Surf Sports, San Rafael Live Water Surf Shop, Stinson Beach OCN Culture, San Anselmo Point Reyes Surf Shop, Point Reyes Station
Best Music/Record Stores
S HO P P I N G
Linda Hensley has owned Encore since 1984. Her dedication and passion have kept Encore alive and successful through technology changes and business cycles. With that same dedication and passion she is committed to keeping Encore at the top of designer consignment throughout Marin and the Greater San Francisco Bay Area. What sets you apart from other consignment stores? I have a discerning eye for style and choosing the best of the best. Marin County gives us the advantage of offering high-quality clothing and accessories. I bring an intimate knowledge of fashion to designer consignment items at their best value. What do you love about San Rafael? I love East San Rafael because it’s thriving. Some of my favorites are Andy‘s Local Markets, Il Davide, San Rafael Joes, Jackson’s Hardware, and many more…
Encore Consignment | San Rafael, CA 415.456.7309 | EncoreConsignment.com
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PROMOTION
BEST OF 2026 READERS' CHOICE
Best Community Services ST. VINCENT DE PAUL SOCIETY OF MARIN For the last 80 years, St. Vincent de Paul has worked to end hunger and homelessness in Marin County. In 2025 alone, together we: • Distributed more than $1.1 million in rental assistance and direct aid. • Successfully housed 123 families, individuals, and veterans. • Served 200,000 warm, nutritious meals at our Free Dining Room.
Fundraising Event Food Insecurity Nonprofit Elder Services
We are deeply honored by our community partnership and support. Thank you for trusting in SVdP. 820 B Street, San Rafael, CA 415.454.3303 vinnies.org
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PROMOTION
BEST OF 2026 READERS' CHOICE
Best Insurance – Property and Casualty CANNELL INSURANCE GROUP “The difference between having insurance and being insured.” We are a Marin-based, family-owned insurance agency with 25 years of experience. Specializing in residential home insurance for hard-to-place locations, we combine the reach of a Farmers agency with the flexibility of an independent brokerage to access the broadest markets available locally. We understand the difference between simply having a policy and being truly protected — providing tailored coverage and expert guidance to ensure your home and family are properly insured. Pictured: John (son/agent) and Stephanie (owner/agent) 219 E. Blithedale Ave, Suite 2, Mill Valley, CA 415.388.7979 CA license 0E75638 cannell-insurance.com
Best Vegan / Vegetarian Food GOOD EARTH NATURAL FOODS Thank you for voting Good Earth Natural Foods Best Vegan/Vegetarian Destination! Since 1969, it’s been our mission to provide the highest-quality, organic products available. We are so grateful to the Marin community for embracing this mission and supporting us for over 50 years. It’s our pleasure to serve you with fresh, organic, nutrient-dense foods! 720 Center Blvd, Fairfax CA 415.454.0123 genatural.com
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BEST OF 2026 READERS' CHOICE
Best Home Furnishings / Decor 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
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PROMOTION
BEST OF 2026 READERS' CHOICE
METTA YOGA STUDIOS
Best Yoga Studio
Thank you, Marin! We’re honored to be voted Best Yoga Studio and so grateful for this community. With studios in San Rafael, Corte Madera, and Sausalito, Metta Yoga offers community-driven spaces and diverse classes for every kind of practice. New students get one month unlimited for $59! 851 Fourth Street, San Rafael, CA I 8 Tamalpais Drive, Corte Madera, CA Cloudbreak Yoga, 1621 Bridgeway, Sausalito, CA 415.868.FLOW (3569) mettayogastudio.com
Best Fundraising Event POSTPARTUM SUPPORT CENTER
Family Services
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 Hwy, San Rafael, CA 415.320.6707 support@postpartumsc.org postpartumsc.org
Best Latin American Food 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. 903 Lincoln Avenue, San Rafael, CA 415.451.4765 401 Miller Avenue, Mill Valley, CA 415.380.1986 151 Petaluma Blvd. South, Petaluma CA 707.347.5998 solfoodrestaurant.com
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BEST OF 2026 READERS' CHOICE
Best Facial Med Spa HAYES VALLEY MEDICAL ESTHETICS Thank you to the readers of Marin Magazine for recognizing Hayes Valley Medical Esthetics (HVME) as Best Facial in Marin County and Rest of the Best: Med Spa. At HVME, we believe beautiful results begin with healthy skin. For more than two decades, Linda Behla, RN, Founder and Clinical Director, has combined advanced technology, regenerative medicine, and personalized care to help patients look refreshed, confident, and naturally themselves. Our approach has always been simple: less is more. We focus on collagen stimulation, facial balance, and subtle rejuvenation rather than dramatic transformation. Because no two patients, goals, or aging journeys are alike, every treatment plan is thoughtfully tailored to the individual. We are honored by this recognition and grateful for the trust, loyalty, and long-term relationships we have built throughout Marin and San Francisco. Hayes Valley | 628.277.5035 Cow Hollow | 628.244.3312 Larkspur | 628.232.6853 @hayesvalleymed.com
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PROMOTION
BEST OF 2026 READERS' CHOICE Best Educational Nonprofit Fundraising Event
SIREN SISTERS KITCHEN
10,000 DEGREES
Best Catering / Food Delivery Service
Thank you, Marin, for voting us Best Educational Nonprofit, as well as nominating us Best Fundraising Event! For 46 years, 10,000 Degrees has worked with over 80,000 students and awarded more than $113 million in scholarships, helping students from low-income backgrounds get to, through, and beyond college.
Known for beautiful grazing tables and trusted for so much more, Siren Sisters Kitchen offers full-service California–Mediterranean catering, floral design, and event planning for corporate events, nonprofit fundraisers, weddings, and private celebrations. Women-owned and Marin-based.
1401 Los Gamos Drive, Suite 205, San Rafael, CA 415.459.4240 10000degrees.org
1605 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, Fairfax, CA 415.234.3462 info@sirensisterskitchen.com sirensisterskitchen.com
Best Jewelry Store Jewelry Repair SOFIA JEWELRY We are honored to be voted Best Jewelry Store by our Marin community. For more than 30 years, our family has had the privilege of helping generations of clients celebrate life’s most meaningful moments with jewelry that tells their story. Whether it’s a custom engagement ring, a special anniversary gift, or a piece to mark an everyday celebration, we’re grateful to be part of so many milestones. As a full-service jeweler, we’re here for every occasion. We look forward to welcoming you to Sofia Jewelry in Mill Valley or Johann Paul Fine Jewelry at Bon Air Shopping Center. 80 Throckmorton Ave, Mill Valley, CA 415.388.8776 sofiajewelry.com
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PROMOTION
BEST OF 2026 READERS' CHOICE
THE BAAN THAI CUISINE
Best Thai / Southeast Asian Food
We are incredibly honored and humbled to be voted the Best Thai Restaurant in Marin County! For over 12 years, it has been our absolute honor to share the vibrant flavors and comforting traditions of Thailand with our neighbors right here in San Anselmo. This award belongs to our wonderful guests and dedicated team, and it inspires us to keep serving you the very best, from our kitchen to your table. We couldn’t have done this without your incredible support, your loyalty, and your shared love for good food. We look forward to welcoming you back soon for your favorite noodles, curries, and more! 726 San Anselmo Ave, San Anselmo 415.457.9470 thebaanthaicuisine.com
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PROMOTION
BEST OF 2026 READERS' CHOICE
SONAS DENIM
Best Men’s Clothing
Best Bookstore BOOK PASSAGE
Thank you, Marin, for voting SONAS Best Men’s Clothing! We’re so grateful for your support. We’re a small boutique in the heart of Fairfax, filled with unique pieces from around the world. Come by, say hello, and find your next favorite look.
Book Passage is thrilled to celebrate our 50th Anniversary! A thriving bookstore reflects the heart and soul of a community. It is an honor to serve as a gathering place for writers and readers. Thank you for once again naming us Best Bookstore in Marin!
10 Bolinas Road, Fairfax, CA 415.691.9865 IG: @sonasdenim sonasdenim.com
51 Tamal Vista Blvd, Corte Madera, CA 415.927.0960 bookpassage.com
Best Italian Food Fine Dining IL DAVIDE Our Marin community is the Best! Thank you from all of us at Il Davide for your support over 31 years! We are so grateful to serve you. Authentic Northern Italian cuisine, warm hospitality, and unforgettable meals — celebrating life’s special moments with Marin families for more than three decades. Join us for lunch, dinner, or your next special occasion and experience the hospitality that has made Il Davide a Marin favorite for 31 years. 901 A Street, San Rafael, CA 415.454.8080 ildavide.net
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BEST OF 2026 READERS' CHOICE
Best Med Spa BARE SKIN MARIN We are honored to be recognized as Best Med Spa! More importantly, we are grateful for the trust our patients place in us every day. What if aesthetic medicine could help you look more rested, vibrant, and confident without anyone knowing you had anything done? Located in Kentfield and proudly serving communities across the Bay Area, Bare Skin Marin cares for individuals who take control of their confidence through personalized medical aesthetic care. Our proprietary service, Skin to Structure™, redefines facial rejuvenation by addressing every layer of the face with precision and intention. Designed for the modern Bay Area lifestyle, Skin to Structure™ combines medicine and artistry to deliver transformative, yet undetectable, results that preserve the features that make you unmistakably you. 901 Sir Francis Drake, Kentfield CA 415.639.4864 @bareskinmarin bareskinmarin.com
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Best Insurance – Health and Life GREER WESTERINK OF NEW YORK LIFE Protecting What Matters Most - For Every Stage of Life. Helping Marin women and families protect what matters most - today and for the future. Life brings transitions marriage, children, career growth, divorce, retirement, and unexpected challenges. Having the right financial protection and strategy in place creates clarity, stability, and peace of mind. • Life Insurance & Income Protection • Long-Term Care & Extended Care Planning • Retirement Income & Wealth Strategies • Asset Protection Solutions • Legacy & Estate Planning Coordination Complimentary consultations and policy reviews welcome. 415.942.0499 CA Insurance License #0M71563
Best Funeral Home FERNWOOD FUNERAL HOME, CEMETERY, AND CREMATORY We’re deeply honored to be voted Best Funeral Home in Marin. Our gentle and dutiful approach to care is available to every family, 24/7. Held within the natural landscape of Mill Valley, we offer a range of green burial options and on-site cremation ceremonies, alongside personalized funeral services for every tradition. 301 Tennessee Valley Rd, Mill Valley, CA 415.329.3466 fernwood.com
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CITY CARPETS CARPET ONE
Best Flooring
Being voted Best Flooring in Marin is an honor that means more to us than you know. Since opening our doors in 1993, our goal has never simply been to sell flooring. It’s been to build lasting relationships, provide honest guidance, and treat every customer the way we’d want our own family to be treated. We’re deeply grateful to our incredible employees, whose talent and dedication make this recognition possible, and to every customer who has welcomed us into their home. Marin has given so much to our family over the years. That’s why we’re committed to giving back whenever we can — supporting local nonprofits, community organizations, and causes that make our county stronger. Thank you for your trust, your friendship, and your support. We are truly honored. ~ Leigh, Hossein and the City Carpets Team 555 Francisco Blvd East, San Rafael, CA 415.454.4200 City-Carpets.com
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BEST OF 2026 READERS' CHOICE Best Disability Care Nonprofit Fundraising Event
Best Massage Therapist ALEXA MIMELES MASSAGE Honored to be voted Best Massage Therapist in Marin – two years running! I am so grateful to this amazing community for your continued trust and support. Thank you for voting and allowing me to be a part of your wellness journey! 608 Eastwood Way, Mill Valley, CA 415.990.6556 alexamimeles.com
LIFEHOUSE AGENCY Thank you for naming Lifehouse Best Disability Service! For more than 70 years, we’ve championed inclusion, respect, and opportunity for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD). This honor belongs to our entire community. Thank you for helping people with I/DD live full, meaningful lives. 18 Professional Center Parkway, San Rafael, CA 415.526.5300 lifehouseagency.org
Best Home Organizer CHANGING PLACES Changing Places began with a simple idea: change is easier with a steady hand beside you. Three decades later, we remain a concierge-level partner for families and professionals across the San Francisco Bay Area. From complex relocations to lifestyle organizing, estate resolution or downsizing, our team handles what’s overwhelming, so you don’t have to. We simplify complex transitions by acting as your single point of accountability - coordinating trusted vendors, managing timelines, and anticipating details before they become stress points. Our client and partner relationships span years and generations - built on trust, discretion, and consistent results. Whether you’re moving across town or around the world, we make the transition feel calm, elevated, and bespoke. Serving Marin County + The Bay Area Since 1993 415.461.6257 changing-places.com
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Best Pizza Brewery / Taproom CREEKSIDE PIZZA & TAPROOM Creekside Pizza & Taproom, where award-winning pizza and warm hospitality come together, is proud to be recognized by Marin Magazine as Best Pizza in Marin County year after year. Located in downtown San Anselmo, Creekside offers a warm setting for foodies, family dinners, casual lunches, and evenings out with friends. Featuring our gourmet pizzas, deli-inspired sandwiches, garden fresh salads, hearty pastas, plus gluten-free and vegan options, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Every dish is crafted with premium ingredients and served by our friendly team dedicated to making you feel right at home. Join us daily from 12-9pm and discover why Creekside has become a Marin favorite. Pair your meal with a local wine or choose from our rotating selection of premium craft beers served in the always-welcoming town of San Anselmo, The Heart of Marin. 638 San Anselmo Avenue, San Anselmo, CA 415.785.4450 www.CreeksideSA.com
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BEST OF 2026 READERS' CHOICE Best Kitchen / Bath Designer Builder LAMPERTI CONTRACTING & DESIGN We are incredibly grateful to be recognized as the Best Kitchen and Bath Design in the Reader’s Choice Awards. This honor means a lot to us, as it comes from you — our clients, neighbors, and the wonderful community of Marin. For over 60 years, Lamperti Contracting & Design has been dedicated to crafting kitchens and bathrooms that embody your lifestyle and vision, seamlessly blending classic elegance, practicality, and craftsmanship. As a full-service design and construction firm, we focus on tailored cabinetry, high-end appliances, and exceptional finishes to turn your dream spaces into reality. Thank you, Marin. Lamperti Contracting & Design — Where creativity meets craftsmanship. 1241 Andersen Drive, San Rafael, CA 415.454.1623 lampertikitchens.com
Best Nail Salon MARLOWE MODERN NAIL CARE Fresh polish, cozy chairs, and clean breathable air: that’s Marlowe! Join us at the Marin Country Mart for healthy, natural nail care and ditch the acrylics and harsh chemicals. You’ll find meticulous mani/pedis, single-use tools, a dedicated Clean Room for hospitalgrade sterilization behind the scenes, and a team that genuinely loves making people feel good. Celebrating something? We love hosting private parties with catering to bring people together. Check out our party packages! Whether you need a quick refresh or well-deserved self-care, Marlowe is where beautiful nails and feelgood moments go hand in hand. 2245 Larkspur Landing Circle, Larkspur, CA 415.295.7215 hellomarlowe.com
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WEDGE ROOFING
Best Home Building Resources
Thank you Marin! Founded in Marin County in 1976, Wedge Roofing is honored to be recognized in Marin Magazine’s 2026 Best of the County as we mark 50 years of award-winning residential and commercial roofing excellence in Marin County. Wedge Roofing is a multiple-award-winning residential and commercial roofing contractor known for five decades of demonstrated roofing expertise, renowned customer service, and ethical business practices. Our commitment to professionalism has earned our reputation as one of the best roofing contractors nationwide and the only San Francisco Bay Area roofing company to earn the roofing industry’s most prestigious accreditations and awards. As a California-licensed roofing, general, solar, insulation, and sheet metal contractor, Wedge Roofing brings broad expertise to residential and commercial projects. Our estimators provide honest, unbiased appraisals and recommend work only when it is needed. We protect the homes and businesses entrusted to us, offer expertise in sustainable and energy-efficient roof systems, strengthen the roofing industry through leadership and instruction, and serve local communities through giving, volunteerism, and donated roofing services. Serving Marin, Sonoma, Napa, San Francisco 888.763.7663 wedgeroofing.com
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Best Chiropractor Massage TINOZZI CHIROPRACTIC & MASSAGE STUDIO Thank you, Marin, for voting Tinozzi Chiropractic & Massage Studio a Readers’ Choice winner. For nearly three decades, we’ve helped Marinites move, feel, and live better. Every chiropractic visit includes massage, and many patients are surprised to learn their insurance may also cover full-length therapeutic massage — just ask us about yours! 520 Tamalpais Drive, Suite 205, Corte Madera, CA 415.924.8089 tinozzichiropractic.com
Best Women’s Clothing BELLA Stacey is celebrating 30 years in business! With locations in Greenbrae, Novato, Petaluma and Napa, Stacey offers stylish, affordable clothing, accessories and gifts arranged by color. Artisan jewelry is displayed on tables. All brands were curated over the years, and her husband has built every store! Novato | Greenbrae Petaluma | Napa IG @bellaboutiquesca 415.385.0043 bellamarin.com
Best Plastic Surgeon ARMAN T. SEREBRAKIAN, MD Being named Best of Marin is a tremendous honor and a reflection of the trust my patients place in me every day. My approach to plastic surgery is centered on achieving natural, refined results through meticulous technique, individualized care, and a commitment to surgical precision. With training at Harvard and UCLA, I combine world-class education with the latest advances in aesthetic and reconstructive surgery to help patients look and feel like the best version of themselves. I am deeply grateful to our community for this recognition and remain dedicated to delivering exceptional, compassionate care. 1000 Magnolia Ave, Larkspur, CA 415.461.5755 @dr.serebrakian
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THE GALLERY AT BELVEDERE TIBURON LIBRARY
Best Art Gallery
THE Gallery I Belvedere Tiburon Library has grown from empty walls just four years ago, to being ranked Best Art Gallery in Marin. What an honor! As a volunteer-run gallery, we’re especially proud of what we’ve built together — a vibrant hub where bold programming and meaningful engagement help make art accessible. Thanks to our amazing community of artists and art enthusiasts for making this happen! We return September 17th with our next art exhibition — Mark Making: Dots, Lines, Textures — opening reception from 6-8pm. Please come visit us! Special thanks to the Tiburon Peninsula Foundation and the Belvedere Community Foundation for its generous sponsorship. 1501 Tiburon Blvd., Tiburon, CA 415.789.2665 beltiblibrary.org/plan-your-visit/gallery
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Best Live Music Venue Best Wine Bar MOG ASU WINE BAR & BOTTLE SHOP
SWEETWATER MUSIC VENUE
Thank you, Marin, for your incredible support! As a husband-and-wife-owned business, we’re honored to create a place where neighbors become friends and everyone feels welcomed, remembered, cared for, and at home. Come discover why Mog Asu means “Love Be With You.” Photo: Isabella McWhorter.
Sweetwater Music Hall, established in 1972, is a 501(c)3 nonprofit arts organization committed to providing access to live music and cultural events year around.
1 Blackfield Drive, Suite 14, Tiburon, CA 415.264.8292 mogasu-ca.com
19 Corte Madera Ave, Mill Valley, CA 415.388.3850 sweetwatermusichall.org
jca Best Architect 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 County! 4000 Bridgeway, Suite 304, Sausalito, CA 415.332.1122 jcarchs.com
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Best Cannabis Dispensary / Delivery Service 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 2026 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
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Best Outdoor Adventure
Best Kids’ Clothing
ANGEL ISLAND TIBURON FERRY
SEESAW CHILDREN’S CONSIGNMENT SHOP
Take the ferry to Angel Island’s Ayala Cove, book a sunset or holiday cruise or bring everyone aboard for a wedding, company outing or private charter. Led by fourth-generation ferry captain Maggie McDonogh, the family-run company turns time on the Bay into the main event.
We are honored and grateful to be voted Best Children’s Clothing Store. It is our pleasure to serve the community for over ten years now in a manner that promotes environmental stewardship and helps families find high quality items at a great value. We look forward to seeing you in the shop. Thank You!!
21 Main Street, Tiburon, CA 415.435.2131 angelislandferry.com
722 San Anselmo Ave, San Anselmo, CA 415.295.7979 seesaw4kids.com
Best Massage Spa / Facial EVO SPA Thank you for voting EVO SPA Best Massage. It is an honor to serve You for the past 22 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
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Best Interior Design JENNIFER WUNDROW INTERIOR DESIGN, INC. We are deeply honored to be recognized as Marin Magazine’s 2026 Best Interior Designer. As a fifthgeneration Marin native with more than 25 years of experience, Jennifer Wundrow creates timeless, thoughtfully curated homes that are as livable as they are beautiful. She believes the best interiors feel effortless, warm, and inviting, balancing refined aesthetics with comfort, durability, and everyday living. After honing her craft at renowned San Francisco firms Tucker & Marks and Rebecca Bradley Interior Design, Jennifer founded her studio in 2008. Today, Jennifer Wundrow Interior Design specializes in luxury residential projects throughout California and beyond, from ground-up construction and major renovations to full-home furnishings. Her collaborative approach, meticulous attention to detail, and trusted relationships with artisans have earned her a loyal clientele and national recognition in Architectural Digest, Elle Decor, California Home + Design, and other leading design publications. 534 Belle Avenue, San Rafael, CA 415.294.2554 jenniferwundrow.com
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Best Cosmetic Dermatologist SOUTHERN MARIN DERMATOLOGY For more than 13 years, we’ve helped thousands of patients look refreshed while preserving what makes them uniquely themselves. From Botox and fillers to non-surgical skin tightening and rejuvenation, upper eyelid surgery, and esthetic services, every treatment we offer has earned its place in our practice through proven results and clinical evidence. Our patients trust us to recommend and perform not just more treatments, but the treatments that are right for them — guided by a deep understanding of skin health, facial anatomy, and dermatologic expertise. 2330 Marinship Way #370, Sausalito, CA 415.887.9758 southernmarinderm.com
Best Arts Nonprofit Art Gallery ART WORKS DOWNTOWN More than a visit — an immersive art experience. Explore original artwork in three galleries and 34 working artist studios, all under one roof. Meet the artists behind the work and discover pieces that inspire, surprise, and resonate long after your visit. Located on Fourth Street in downtown San Rafael, Art Works Downtown is a 40,000-square-foot creative destination. Art lives here — where artists create, collectors connect, and inspiration unfolds at every turn. 1325–1337 Fourth Street, San Rafael, CA 415.451.8119 artworksdowntown.org
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Plastic Surgeon PLASTIC SURGERY SPECIALTY GROUP
Med Spa
Yngvar A. Hvistendahl, MD, is a board-certified plastic surgeon and founder of Plastic Surgery Specialty Group (PSSG), one of Marin County’s premier destinations for aesthetic surgery and physician-led MedSpa services. For more than 22 years, Dr. Hvistendahl has been recognized for natural, elegant results in facial rejuvenation, breast enhancement, body contouring, regenerative aesthetics, and advanced laser treatments. Every treatment plan is tailored to each patient’s unique goals and anatomy. Working alongside him for more than 15 years is Lyvia Toledo Garcia, Surgery Administrator and Senior Patient Care Coordinator. A former Practice Manager, Lyvia has guided thousands of patients through their aesthetic journey with expert education, surgical planning, and compassionate support. Together, they combine surgical artistry with personalized, conciergelevel care to help every patient feel informed, confident, and achieve beautiful, natural-looking results. 350 Bon Air Road Ste 300, Greenbrae CA 415.925.2880 psspecialists.com
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Italian Food RISTORANTE LA TOSCANA Cheers to nearly 41 years of serving Marin! Since 1985, La Toscana has welcomed generations of families, friends, and colleagues to enjoy authentic Italian cuisine, handcrafted pastas, house-made specialties, fine wine, and genuine hospitality. Family-owned and operated from day one, we remain committed to fresh ingredients, timeless recipes, exceptional service, and memorable experiences. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, enjoying a business lunch, or gathering with family and friends, we’re honored to be part of your traditions. As we celebrate our 41st anniversary this August, thank you, Marin, for your loyalty and support. We look forward to welcoming you back. 3751 Redwood Hwy, San Rafael, CA 415.492.9100 ristorantelatoscana.com
Hair Salon MILVALI SALON Milvali Salon has been proudly serving the community since 2002. Founded and owned by Mill Valley native Jessika Adams, the salon was created with the belief that great people create great experiences. Jessika considers her biggest asset to be her incredible team of stylists, estheticians and counter staff. Every person is hand picked for their down-to-earth style, amazing talent and the desire to give back and be a part of this amazing community. Most of the Milvali staff live here in this community, including 13 Marin County Moms, and several local College girls home for the summer. Jessika’s staff is her pride and joy. Come visit Milvali Salon and see why we are not your typical salon, we are more than a salon, we are a place for the whole family. From your daily routines to the milestones in your lives! 3 East Blithedale Avenue, Mill Valley, CA 415.388.0988 milvali.com
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Consignment / Thrift Shop TIVOLI & TIVOLI MEN’S DEN Marin’s Premier Resale Hub The magic of Tivoli keeps loyal shoppers coming back, while first-time visitors are pleasantly surprised to wander into this hidden gem on charming Caledonia Street in Sausalito. Tivoli and Tivoli Men’s Den offer elevated style at accessible prices while embracing sustainable shopping. Their thoughtfully curated collections feature luxury men’s and women’s gently used clothing, accessories, and home décor. The enchanting aesthetic blends timeless classics with whimsical accents that feel both sophisticated and playful. On any given day, Tivoli is abuzz with brunchers, girls’ day-out groups, guys’ crews, multigenerational families, couples, locals, and travelers, all enjoying the delight of treasure hunting and finding something special. Owner Teri Lang named Tivoli as a tribute to the magic of Tivoli Gardens in Copenhagen, Denmark. The name also holds a clever twist: spelled backward, “Tivoli” becomes “I Lov It,” a fitting reflection of how so many shoppers feel after experiencing its magic. 310 & 333b Caledonia Street, Sausalito, CA 415.559.7149 tivolidecor.com
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BEST OF 2026 Fundraising Event
Event Planner TO CELEBRATE LIFE BREAST CANCER FOUNDATION Stepping Out To Celebrate Life, our annual signature gala and fashion show features models thriving after breast cancer. This inspirational event benefits our Breast Cancer Grants Program supporting Bay Area nonprofits that assist underserved patients with emergency and financial assistance, direct services and diagnostic testing. Photo: Jessica Monroy for Drew Altizer Photography
MTR EVENT DESIGN Honored to be recognized as “Rest of the Best” Event Planner in Marin Magazine’s Best of 2026! Decades of building festivals and conferences, detail by detail. Thank you to our clients and partners. Serving Marin County 415.717.7145 mtreventdesign.com
Kentfield, CA 415.455.5882 tocelebratelife.org
Integrative / Alternative Medicine DR. BARBARA CUSTER, OMD Dr. Barbara Custer, OMD is an award-winning Bay Area doctor with more than 30 years of experience specializing in women’s health and hormone balance. Author of The World of Edible Medicine, her philosophy is “The Science of the West meets the Wisdom of the East.” Through advanced Western medical testing and personalized care, she helps women better understand symptoms including fatigue, mood changes, PMS, insomnia, memory issues, hot flashes, and low libido. In-office and telehealth consultations are available locally and worldwide. Schedule your complimentary initial health and wellness consultation today. 147 Lomita Drive, Suite J, Mill Valley, CA 415.383.3040 eastwestoptimumhealth.com
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Tile Showroom CERAMIC TILE DESIGN For over 40 years, Ceramic Tile Design has helped Marin homeowners, designers, and contractors bring spaces to life. Established in 1983, our family-owned showroom features 5,000 square feet of Marin County’s largest selection of natural stone and tile. We’ve built lasting relationships with exceptional local tile artisans and directly import hand-selected porcelain collections from Europe, offering distinctive, timeless surfaces found nowhere else in the Bay Area. Behind the showroom, you’ll find our slabyard stocked with natural stone, quartz, and porcelain slabs, along with a stocked warehouse carrying the tile installation supplies professionals rely on. Whether you’re remodeling a kitchen, designing a spalike bath, or creating an outdoor retreat, our design consultants bring more than 75 years of combined tile and design experience to help you find the perfect materials. From in-stock favorites to handcrafted statement pieces, we offer beautiful surfaces for every style, project, and budget. 846 Francisco Blvd W, San Rafael, CA 415.485.5180 ceramictiledesign.com
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Movers A AND P MOVING Thank you Marin for selecting us as your trusted moving resource. Celebrating our 36th year as a local family owned and operated full services moving, storage, warehouse, and white glove delivery company. We also provide on-site mobile certified document shredding at your business or home. 111 Hamilton Drive, Novato, CA 415.883.2391 apmoving.com
Interior Designer HOLLY A. KOPMAN INTERIOR DESIGN Holly A. Kopman Interior Design creates homes with unmistakable style — where bold color, rich texture, and a rock-and-roll sensibility meet exceptional craftsmanship. Based in Sausalito, the award-winning studio designs sophisticated, fearless residences throughout Marin, the Bay Area, San Francisco, and in destinations from Aspen to St. Barts. Discover Holly’s signature Rebellious Glamour aesthetic at hollyakopman.com. 213 2nd Street, Suite A, Sausalito, CA, 415.596.6473 hollyakopman.com
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KURO NAMI Thank You, all Marin residents! We are truly honored to be recognized as one of Marin’s Best Japanese Restaurants.
Sushi / Ramen
This recognition would not have been possible without the trust, support, and encouragement you’ve shown Kuro Nami throughout our first two years. It also belongs to our incredible chefs and team, whose passion and dedication bring our modern Japanese cuisine to life every day. We invite you to join us for fresh sushi, seasonal creations, handcrafted cocktails, and an unforgettable dining experience. We’re grateful to have you as part of the Kuro Nami family and look forward to welcoming you back soon. 69 Center Blvd, San Anselmo, CA 415.459.6969 kuronamimarin.com
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Consignment / Thrift Shop ENCORE CONSIGNMENT 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
Plastic Surgeon MOHEBALI PLASTIC SURGERY Thank you, Marin County! It has been our privilege to care for this community for over 16 years, providing personalized, boutique plastic surgery with exceptional expertise and natural-looking results. We are honored by your trust and grateful to be part of your journey. 21 Tamal Vista Blvd #103, Corte Madera CA 415.927.7660 mohebaliplasticsurgery.com
Funeral Home VALLEY MEMORIAL PARK CEMETERY AND FUNERAL HOME To be nominated for Best Funeral Home in the county is an honor we hold close — and a trust we never take lightly. At Valley Memorial Park Cemetery and Funeral Home, we believe a final resting place should honor both a life and the earth that sustained it. Set amid the quiet wetlands of Rush Creek Preserve, we offer traditional burial and cremation, as well as green burial, alkaline hydrolysis, and natural organic reduction — earthconscious options chosen with intention and care. We’re here when you wish to learn more. 650 Bugeia Lane, Novato, CA 415.897.9609 valleymemorialpark.com COA377, FD2295, CR206
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Plastic Surgeon Med Spa Facial DR. TIMOTHY RANKIN, MD, FACS
Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon Founder, NorCal Plastic Surgery
For Dr. Timothy Rankin, exceptional plastic surgery begins with listening. As founder of NorCal Plastic Surgery, Dr. Rankin has spent more than two decades helping patients throughout Marin County and the Bay Area achieve natural, refined results that enhance confidence without sacrificing authenticity. His approach is rooted in the belief that aesthetic surgery should never change who a person is — it should reveal the most confident version of themselves. A board-certified plastic surgeon and Fellow of the American College of Surgeons, Dr. Rankin completed his advanced plastic surgery training at Vanderbilt University and has built a reputation for combining surgical precision with an artistic eye. Patients seek his expertise for facial rejuvenation, rhinoplasty, breast and body procedures, as well as the latest non-surgical aesthetic treatments. Known for his thoughtful consultations and individualized care, Dr. Rankin develops treatment plans tailored to each patient’s goals, lifestyle, and anatomy. The result is what patients value most: refreshed, natural-looking outcomes delivered with honesty, expertise, and uncompromising attention to detail. At NorCal Plastic Surgery, every patient experience is guided by trust, compassion, and a commitment to excellence. 1652 Tiburon Boulevard, Tiburon, CA 415.727.9666 norcalsurgery.com
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BEST OF 2026 Concierge Doctor
Architect DORMAN ASSOCIATES, INC. Thank you, Marin, for naming Dorman Associates among the county’s best. Since 2001 we’ve designed homes rooted in Marin — its light, its landscape, the way we live here. From ground-up homes to careful remodels, we listen first, honor the place, and build to last. dormanassociates.com
ENERGIZE HEALTH & HORMONES Dr. Heidi Queen delivers deep physician engagement tailored to your individual wellness goals. “My practice blends proactive primary care, functional medicine and hormone expertise to deliver holistic preventive support. Together, we will develop an innovative plan to foster your long-term vitality, confidence, and transformative well-being.” 655 Redwood Highway, Suite 200, Mill Valley, CA 415.548.7901 energizehealthandhormones.com
Jewelry Store JOHANN PAUL FINE JEWELRY We are deeply grateful to our Marin community for recognizing Johann Paul Fine Jewelry as one of Marin’s best jewelry stores. As we celebrate five years as the proud new owners of this trusted local jeweler, we invite you to discover what’s new, from our thoughtfully curated fine jewelry collections to one-ofa-kind custom designs. Our comprehensive services include expert repair and restoration, custom design, and a personalized experience to help you celebrate life’s most meaningful moments. We look forward to welcoming you to our Bon Air Shopping Center showroom and helping you find treasures to cherish for generations. 272 Bon Air Center, Greenbrae, CA 415.461.1866 johannpaulfinejewelry.com
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MARIN HOME CARE
Elder Services
Thank you, Marin, for once again recognizing Marin Home Care as one of the county’s most trusted providers of in-home care for seniors. For the past 10 years, our locally owned and operated team has helped seniors remain safe, independent, and comfortable in the place they most want to be—home. Whether care is needed for a few hours each week or around-the-clock support, we create personalized care plans tailored to each client’s unique needs. What sets Marin Home Care apart is our exceptional caregivers, responsive communication, and commitment to treating every client with dignity, compassion, and respect. Thank you for allowing us to care for your loved ones. It is a privilege we never take for granted. With gratitude, Laura Belluomini, Founder & CEO and Caroline Glassell, Chief Operating Officer 1640 Tiburon Blvd, Suite 16, Tiburon, CA 415.712.1917 marinhomecare.com
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Interior Designer
Hair Salon
THE SCALE COLLECTIVE The Scale Collective is a Tiburon based interior design, interior architecture, and art consulting studio crafting narrative-driven spaces rooted in how you live. Sculptural, organic, deeply personal. Blending relaxed coastal California living with European sensibility. Passionate about large-scale installation art, custom commissions, and artist collaborations. Serving Marin County 415.562.5857 thescalecollective.com
OYU SALON Oyu Salon is grateful to our clientsusfor trusting us to you look Oyu Salon is grateful to our clients for trusting to make you look andmake feel your best. Ourand feel passion to make youpassion shine andisbeto the best you! yourisbest. Our make you shine and be the best you! 1001 Bridgeway, Suite A-2,CA. Sausalito CA 1001 Bridgeway Suite A-2, Sausalito (415) 747-9861 415.747.9861 salonoyu.com/contact-us https://salonoyu.com/contact-us
Family Services Nonprofit NORTH BAY CHILDREN’S CENTER Thank you, Marin readers, for 38 years of support! As a leader in early childhood education, North Bay Children’s Center helps children thrive through highquality early learning that builds the foundation for lifelong success. This year, we expanded our impact with the launch of our Garden of Eatin’ Learning Lab, a new Therapeutic Classroom, and our Family Food Share program, providing nutritious food to 170 households and nearly 500 individuals each week. Together, we’re building stronger children, families, and communities. Join the NBCC family — enroll, volunteer, donate, and help shape brighter futures. 932 C Street, Novato, CA 415.883.6222, NBCC.net
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ROSS PAINTING
Painter
At Ross Painting, we’re honored to be voted amongst the Best of Marin County. Thank you to our loyal clients and the community for your trust and support. For decades, we’ve guided homeowners and businesses through every step of their property’s transformation with clarity, care, and exceptional craftsmanship. Whether you need a vibrant interior refresh, protective exterior work, specialized no-mess cabinet painting, or a durable floor surface from our concrete coatings division, we combine premium materials with meticulous technique. Enjoy a seamless, stress-free experience from consultation to completion. Contact us to get started today. 3817 Redwood Hwy, San Rafael, CA 415.455.0766 rosspainting.com
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Gym 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 & 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
Integrative / Alternative Medicine MARIN INTEGRATIVE RECOVERY Marin Integrative Recovery offers a root-cause approach to physical and emotional wellness, helping patients to identify and resolve the unique underlying patterns that are preventing them from feeling their best. Founder Dr. Heather Noemi combines integrative medicine, acupuncture, and Chinese herbs to treat mental health concerns, chronic pain, migraines, and autoimmune conditions. Working in synergy, Somatic Experiencing Practitioner Chelsea Rappel provides nervous system education, somatic therapy, and yoga therapy that complement Dr. Noemi’s clinical treatments. Together, they provide a collaborative, compassionate approach that supports patients in enhancing vitality and resolving chronic health issues. 919 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, Suite 203B, Kentfield, CA 415.888.9410 marinIntegrative.com
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BEST OF 2026
ZAND DERMATOLOGY
Cosmetic Dermatologist
MARIN’S AWARD-WINNING DERMATOLOGY & AESTHETIC WELLNESS Zand Dermatology is Marin County’s premier boutique destination for advanced aesthetics, medical dermatology, skin cancer care, and holistic wellness, now proudly serving the East Bay from its new Lafayette location. Led by sisters Dr. Sarv Zand — a Harvard- and MIT-trained, double board-certified dermatologist, Mohs surgeon, and aesthetic expert — and Dr. Paula Zand, a UC Davis-trained board-certified family physician specializing in dermatology, the practice is known for personalized, compassionate care and beautiful, natural aesthetic results. Patients appreciate our unhurried, relationship-focused approach to lifelong skin health. Services include Botox and Daxxify, fillers, CO₂ fractional laser resurfacing, Ultherapy, BBL, V-Beam, microneedling, and clinical facials. Meet our newest provider, Alexa Harris, FNP-C, whose expertise expands access to exceptional care. Featured in Forbes, Glamour, ELLE, The Washington Post, and Women’s Health, Zand Dermatology has earned more than 750 five-star reviews and has been voted Marin’s #1 Best Cosmetic Dermatologist in 2022, 2024, and 2025, as well as Best Dermatologist in Marin. Pictured (l to r): Sarv Zand, MD and Paula Zand, MD 655 Redwood Highway Frontage Road, Suite 246, Mill Valley, CA 415.301.5000 GRAND OPENING: 3511 School Street, Lafayette, CA 925.385.0305 zanddermatology.com
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BEST OF 2026
Home Organization Company LOVE LIVING LIGHTER At Love Living Lighter, organizing is about more than managing belongings: it’s about creating freedom. As a certified health and life coach, Carrie helps clients navigate through the emotional layers of clutter. Helping clients process memories, life transitions, grief, family dynamics, and decades of accumulated belongings. Whether you are downsizing, managing a family’s chaotic home, or simply seeking more peace and order, Carrie combines compassionate guidance with practical organizing solutions. Her goal is to help clients honor their space, build sustainable habits, and create spaces that support clear function so they live in calm, peace, and clarity. Carrie adopts a non-judgmental approach and offers complimentary consultations. Founder, Carrie Albachten Mill Valley, CA 415.218.6233 lovelivinglighter.com
Builder CLEAR DESIGN & BUILD Leeor and Roi Bardenstein, the passionate couple behind Clear Design & Build, specialize in seamlessly managing every aspect of remodeling and new construction projects. Their top priority is clear communication, providing clients with daily WhatsApp updates so no detail is overlooked. Combined with their team’s emotional intelligence and strong communication skills, this approach minimizes confusion, uncertainty, and costly errors. The result is a smooth, stress-free experience from start to finish. They believe exceptional homes are built through quality craftsmanship, transparency, and trust, treating every project with the same care, attention, and dedication they would give their own home. 4040 Civic Center Drive, Suite 200, San Rafael, CA 628.285.7739 cleardesignbuild.com
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Facial Massage Massage Therapist Spa EDEN DAY SPA Thank you Marin, for this incredible honor! For nearly 50 years, Founder Katayoun has dedicated her career to advancing skin health. Her passion began working alongside her father, a dermatologist specializing in burn care, where she witnessed the transformative power of skin healing. She later refined her expertise with leading Beverly Hills dermatologists, caring for clients whose careers and public image demanded exceptional skincare. Committed to bringing advanced European innovations to Marin, Katayoun introduced Swiss and German skincare modalities to Eden delivering visible results without surgery, fillers, or downtime. Every Eden esthetician is personally trained by Katayoun to uphold the highest European skincare standards. Signature treatments include the Next-Generation Lymphatic Lift to sculpt, detoxify, and restore; the NEW Hydro Iono Plasma to infuse oxygen and active ingredients for radiant, collagen-rich skin; and the Rosa Calm Facial for sensitive and rosacea skin, designed to calm inflammation, reduce redness, and strengthen the skin barrier. We invite you to discover the Eden difference with a complimentary consultation and a personalized treatment plan. 411 San Anselmo Ave, San Anselmo, CA 415.464.9111 edendayspa.com
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HOT OFF THE PRESS
Mill Valley Guide 2026 So Much to Enjoy in Mill Valley...
Activities, Dining, Apparel, Fine Jewelry and more. Stay Current and Visit enjoymillvalley.com
Pull this guide out to learn about everything Mill Valley has to offer. 098-099 InsertPages.0826_v2.indd 98
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BEST OF 2026 Breakfast / Brunch Al Fresco Dining Italian Food CUCINA SA Lively evenings, shared plates, and the hum of conversation — Cucina captures the spirit of San Anselmo dining. For 27 years, owner Donna has created a welcoming space centered around rustic Italian cuisine, seasonal ingredients, and genuine hospitality. With its inviting outdoor setting along the Avenue, Cucina remains a place where guests gather, linger, and return time and again.
COMFORTS As we celebrate our 40th anniversary, we are grateful to our wonderful customers for voting for us in Best of the County! Please join us for weekend brunch, or browse our marketplace for lunch or take-home dinner! Open 7 days.
510 San Anselmo Ave, San Anselmo, CA 415.454.2942 cucina-sa.com
335 San Anselmo Ave, San Anselmo, CA 415.454.9840 comfortscafe.com
Architect CDG ARCHITECTURE Award-Winning California Architecture Refined spaces for living and working — built on beauty, balance, and integrity in every project. Based in San Francisco and Marin, CDG Architecture specializes in California design that embraces the outdoors, creating seamless indoor-outdoor living in dialogue with our incredible natural landscape. Founder and Principal Architect Courtenay is an exceptional guide and partner from start to finish—from intuitive design to contractor selection to fixtures and finishes. She brings best-in-class client service together with architectural expertise. The result: a seamless process and incredible projects, delivered with bespoke care and full transparency at every step. 50 Tiburon Street, Suite 24, San Rafael, CA 415.497.2798 @cdgarchitecture architectcdg.com
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Spin Studio Personal Trainer Fitness Class FITLAB
Gym
The entire team at FITLAB are incredibly honored and grateful to be voted among the Best of Marin. Thank you to our amazing members and the Marin community for your trust and support. Every day, we’re inspired by the people who walk through our doors and allow us to be part of their health and fitness journey. From our expert trainers and high-energy group classes to our one-of-a-kind cycle studio and welcoming community, this recognition belongs to all of you. Thank you for making FITLAB your home for fitness, we’re just getting started!! 711 Center Blvd, Fairfax, CA 415.785.3026 fitlabstrong.com
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Med Spa Home Organization Company 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
Plastic Surgeon AESTHETX PLASTIC SURGERY & AESTHETIC MEDICINE Where science meets art: Aesthetx is a physician-led aesthetic practice offering breast, body, and facial surgery, injectables, lasers, and advanced skin health. The team is known for results that read as natural rather than done — and consultations where patients feel genuinely listened to. Book directly at: shorturl.at/vCadG 300 Drakes Landing Road, Ste 100, Greenbrae, CA 415.980.6414 aesthetx.com/marin
Auto Repair JAPAN AUTO REPAIR As a trusted independent shop, Japan Auto Repair is known for expert service from ASE Master Technicians who specialize in Japanese vehicles. From routine maintenance and major repairs to pre-purchase inspections and smog checks, they deliver honest, dependable care. They also provide maintenance for American and European vehicles, making them a go-to destination for quality automotive service in Marin. 48 Front Street, San Rafael, CA 415.258.9376 japanautorepair.com
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BEST OF 2026 Haircut / Salon Service
Gym OSHER MARIN JCC Osher Marin JCC welcomes everyone! We build healthy routines, fitness, and friendships! A 75-year+ cornerstone of the community, we offer state-of-the-art workout equipment, group classes, all-ages swim lessons in sparkling indoor and outdoor pools, and personal training. Join by July 31st and save $200 on registration! 200 N. San Pedro Road. San Rafael, CA 415.444.8000 marinjcc.org
AUBREE HILL, EXHALE HOUSE SALON We believe enhancing your hair can bring you back to yourself. Exhale House was created as a sanctuary where women feel seen, held, and beautifully transformed using Great Lengths®, the only B Corp Certified extension brand. Thank you, Marin, for naming us Best Hair Service in our first year. 198 E. Blithedale Ave, Mill Valley, CA 415.704.6335 exhalehousesalon.com
Food Insecurity Nonprofit
Children’s Activity
EXTRAFOOD
MARIN BALLET
ExtraFood rescues surplus fresh food from businesses, schools, farms, and backyards across the Bay Area, delivering it to neighbors facing hunger. Together, we reduce food waste, fight climate change, and nourish our community. Join us as a food donor, volunteer, or financial supporter.
Thank you, Marin voters, for choosing Marin Ballet! We develop confident, healthy, joyful dancers through exceptional training and performance opportunities. Our experienced faculty provides a supportive, encouraging environment for everyone, with classes from toddlers to adults. Come dance with us and join our community!
907 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, Kentfield, CA 415.997.9830 IG @extrafooddotorg ExtraFood.org
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100 Elm Street, San Rafael, CA 415.453.6705 marinballet.org
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BEST OF 2026
Vegan / Vegetarian Food
Event Space
ACTIVE CULTURE CAFE
OSHER MARIN JCC
We’re so honored to be recognized as “Best of The Rest” for Best Vegan/ Vegetarian food in Marin Magazine’s Best of the County! Thank you to our amazing community for your support. Celebrate with us every Friday during Happy Hour from 3-6 PM and enjoy 50% off froyo, draft beer and draft kombucha. Cheers!
Celebrate in style at the Osher Marin JCC, Marin’s vibrant indoor-outdoor venue for weddings, mitzvahs, galas, concerts, meetings and milestone events. Flexible spaces for 20–500 include a theater, courtyard, commercial kitchen, AV support, experienced event staff, setup, security and free parking. Schedule a tour today!
464 Ignacio Blvd, Novato, CA 415.475.1128 activeculturecafe.com
200 N. San Pedro Road. San Rafael, CA 415.444.8000 specialevents@marinjcc.org marinjcc.org
Chiropractor, Concierge Doctor, and Integrative / Alternative Medicine BWELL FUNCTIONAL HEALTH + CHIROPRACTIC We are honored, to be recognized across three categories - Best Chiropractor, Best Concierge Doctor, and Best Integrative/Alternative Medicine — by the very community we serve. BWell Functional Health + Chiropractic is a Functional Medicine practice deeply passionate about caring for midlife women. Dr. Darcy Oikawa strives to delivers a deeply personalized approach — uncovering root causes and building individualized care plans for hormonal health and menopausal care. Come experience care tailored to you, within our thoughtfully designed space, stocked with curated products and innovative therapies like red light therapy to support healing. We are committed to helping women live their most vibrant lives. 599 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, Suite 304, Greenbrae, CA 628.224.0762 bwellfunctionalhealth.com
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BEST OF 2026 Fundraising Event Family Services Educational Nonprofit Youth Services
Facial EVA CLAIBORNE BEAUTY AND WELLNESS
MARIN CASA Children in foster care deserve our best. Marin CASA recruits, trains, and supports volunteer advocates for vulnerable youth, helping ensure each child has a voice – and a chance to thrive. Celebrate and empower this essential work at CASA’s annual gala, September 19, 2026. 1401 Los Gamos Drive, Suite 130, San Rafael, CA 415.785.3862 MarinCASA.org
Eva Claiborne, Master Aesthetician and Perioperative Aesthetic Specialist, and her daughter, Eva Temby, Aesthetician, celebrate 31 years of skincare and postoperative care in Tiburon. Trained in Hungary, they blend European techniques with personalized treatments and have created the TITOK Naturals® skincare line, inspired by Hungarian traditions. They specialize in Traditional Hungarian Facials, Hydrafacial, Hydrabody, Microneedling, and Postoperative Care. Thank you to our voters for recognizing us as Best of the County 2026. Schedule a complimentary skincare consultation at tiburonskincare.com. 86 B Main St, Historic Ark Row, Tiburon CA 415.497.3635 tiburonskincare.com
Painter KUNST PAINTING, INC. Since 1901, the Kunst legacy has been built on trust, honesty, and craftsmanship. What began as a family paint manufacturing and retail business in San Francisco evolved into one of the North Bay’s most respected painting contractors. This year, we’re proud to celebrate 125 years of that legacy. Now in our fifth generation, we serve Marin, Napa, and Sonoma counties with expert residential and commercial painting services. Our team of 30+ skilled painters brings that same founding commitment to quality, safety, and service on every job, every time. 112 Mitchell Blvd, San Rafael, CA 415.457.0100 kunstpainting.com
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BEST OF 2026 Med Spa Plastic Surgeon SIEBER PLASTIC SURGERY Experience personalized aesthetic care with Lexi Sherer, PA-C, and Sally Sherrard, PAC, at Sieber Plastic Surgery in Marin. Specializing in nonsurgical cosmetic services, they deliver natural-looking results tailored to each patient’s goals. Services include Botox®, dermal fillers, Sculptra®, advanced laser treatments (BBL/Halo/ Moxi), microneedling, medicalgrade skincare, and medical dermatology. 599 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, Suite 300, Greenbrae, CA 415.915.9000 sieberplasticsurgery.com
Jewelry Store STEPHAN-HILL JEWELRY DESIGNERS There is nothing like walking the trails scenic Marin County and celebrating the beauty with our iconic California Collection™. We are celebrating our 46th year in business. Thank you to our clients for your continued support! 1226 Fourth Street, San Rafael, CA 415.459.5808 stephanhill.com
Cosmetic Dermatologist AESTHETIC DERMATOLOGY & SKIN CANCER At Aesthetic Dermatology & Skin Cancer, we provide comprehensive dermatologic care with expertise in cosmetic dermatology and advanced skin cancer treatment. Led by Dr. Stefan Lowenstein, a double board-certified Dermatologist and Mohs Micrographic Surgeon, and supported by Mira Noble, NP, our practice is committed to exceptional training, compassionate care, and medical excellence. We offer a full range of cosmetic treatments, including neuromodulators, dermal fillers, and laser procedures, designed to achieve natural-looking results. We also provide comprehensive skin examinations and expert skin cancer treatment, including Mohs micrographic surgery — the most precise, tissue-sparing technique available. Pictured Stefan Lowenstein MD and Mira Noble NP. 535 Miller Avenue, Mill Valley, CA 415.383.5475 aestheticdermskincancer.com
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Indoor musts?
f you’ve got some friends and family in town, Best of the County picks are a sure way to know that you’re bringing them to the hottest eateries, shops and more around Marin. After all, each one has been vetted by readers like you. But if you’re looking to build a full itinerary, with everything from hikes and downtown walks, to cultural or historical musts, we’ve asked our team for their personal recommendations.
Lesley’s Pick: Museum of International Propaganda. Liz’s Pick: My favorite shopping trifecta is Vivaio Plants, Heath Ceramics and the ICB Building in Sausalito. They’re all within two blocks of each other! Logan’s Pick: My favorite indoor spot in Marin is the Larkspur Landing Cinema as it has a luxurious feel while still showing all of the blockbuster films.
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How long have you lived in Marin? Emma: My whole life. I’m actually a fifth or sixth generation Marinite on both sides of my family! Zack: 39 years, my entire life. Lesley: All my years. Matt: 33 years. which is weird because I am only 27. Lynda: Moved here from Copenhagen, Denmark 18 years ago. Originally from New England.
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Helena’s Pick: If you’re not keen on biking, you can hop on the ferry for a scenic boat ride. Mount Tam is definitely also a must. It can be subject to some fog, but that’s part of its charm!
Logan’s Pick: I like to take visitors to the Hippie Tree in Tiburon as it has one of the most stunning views in the entire county. Along with the views, there are fun swings and trees to climb at the lookout.
Nikki C.’s Pick: Besides hiking Mt Tam — my happy place where I feel immense gratitude — I love heading down to Stinson Beach. And of course, kayaking on the Richardson Bay for the views!
Avery’s Pick: Stinson Beach and West Marin are great day trips. I like the Corte Madera mall, Magnolia Avenue, Bon Air Center and downtown Mill Valley for outdoor shopping.
Emma’s Pick: A hike on Mount Burdell in my hometown of Novato and sunset atop Mount Tam!
Classic experience in or around Marin?
Lesley’s Pick: Hill 88 hiking above Rodeo Beach, if they can keep up!
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Outdoor musts? Matt’s Pick: For my sporty friends I like to take them on a mountain bike ride at Camp Tamarancho in Fairfax, then tend to our wounds over pints of beer and sausages at the fabulously funky Gestalt Haus in downtown Fairfax.
Jim’s Pick: Walk the Belvedere Avenue “Loop” starting at Belvedere’s city hall going straight up Laurel Ave to Belvedere Ave then circling with great views of Mt Tam, Richardson Bay, Sausalito and the Golden Gate Bridge. Connect with Beach Road for spectacular views of the City and Angel Island then walk down to the San Francisco Yacht Club. About 2.5 miles total. Matt’s Pick: For casual sightseeing it’s hard to beat the shoreline trail system at historic Fort Baker and around Point Cavallo. Nobody gets tired of that view.
COURTESY OF KATE URBAN; COURTESY OF LIZ FIORENTINO; COURTESY OF MIMI TOWLE; COURTESY OF LOGAN SCULLY
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Zack’s Pick: A hearty brunch followed by a ferry to Angel Island for a hike and a picnic. Recoup your strength after you dock back in Tiburon, then catch a film at the Rafael or hear from a visiting author at Book Passage. Kate’s Pick: First, brunch at Sam’s Anchor Cafe, then drive to Ocean Beach to sit and tan, listen to music, enjoy the view and dip our toes in the water. The next stop would be Golden Gate Park, where we’d go to the Japanese Tea Garden, then join in on the musical roller skating/blading with all the locals. After that, head to Bolinas Ridge
Zack’s Pick: Nothing beats going for a hike on Mt. Tam, but other natural splendors to seek out include the shores of Stinson Beach, the all-levels-welcome Tennessee Valley Trail and fishing at Phoenix Lake. Sharon’s Pick: A favorite easy walk for conversation and a dose of nature is the Tennessee Valley Trail. Karen’s Pick: Stinson Beach.
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Michele’s Pick: Bolinas Ridge for sunset. Lynda’s Pick: Hiking in Tennessee Valley. Takes 10 minutes to get to and the views of nature and sea are spectacular.
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to catch a killer sunset, of course, and then end the day with dinner somewhere — like Poggio Trattoria, La Ginestra, etc.
North Beach (not the one in SF) for a walk. It’s not really the kind of beach to lay out and tan on, but it certainly is beautiful.
Sharon’s Pick: Brunch at Mountain Home Inn and a barefoot stroll on Muir Beach.
Lesley’s Pick: Driving above the Golden Gate Bridge in the headlands.
Karen’s Pick: The 4th of July tug of war between Bolinas and Stinson.
Jim’s Pick: Nine holes of weekend golf at either Indian Valley or McInnis public courses. Join a foursome with a couple you don’t know, it’s always a nice fit. Catching an early showing of a quality film at Smith San Rafael Film Center followed by dinner at any one of a number of good Fourth Street restaurants.
Mimi’s Pick: Start the day in the Mill Valley Depot, and hike the Dipsea trail to Stinson for brunch at the Parkside. Either park a car there the day before or take the Marin Stagecoach (bus) back; it’s actually pretty convenient. Lynda’s Pick: Driving out to West Marin, going for a long walk on Limantour Beach and eating oysters at Hog Island. Nikki C.’s Pick: Hiking Muir Woods for sure! Emma’s Pick: I love exploring West Marin, starting with a stop at the Marin French Cheese Factory since it’s only 10 minutes or so from my house (I live in Novato). The cheese tastings are a must and the grassy areas make for perfect picnic spots. Then I like to make my way to Point Reyes Station to explore the shops, before finally going to
Matt’s Pick: Rent an e-bike in Sausalito then go for a ride through Cavallo Point, across the Golden Gate bridge, and back. You’ll be smiling during the entire journey. Logan’s Pick: Walking along the Blackies Pasture bike path while taking in the views of the Golden Gate Bridge, Sausalito and Richardson Bay. Avery’s Pick: Getting coffee from a local shop, then going on a walk by the water in Sausalito, in the woods in Mill Valley or on one of our county's stunning hiking trails.
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Favorite town square/ downtown? Zack’s Pick: San Anselmo, both because that's where I grew up and because it now features a fountain sculpture of Indiana Jones and Yoda. You can’t beat that. Kate’s Pick: Downtown Fairfax because it feels nostalgic and fun, but also historic and beautiful. Tiburon and Sausalito, are both on the water with great shopping! Sharon’s Pick: Last weekend I was in the mood for shopping, people-watching and treats from the farmers market, so I headed to the Country Mart in Larkspur. This week, though, I’m craving a charming atmosphere with a bit of live music, so you’ll find me at the Mill Valley Depot. Karen’s Pick: Larkspur for the weather. Mimi’s Pick: Can’t pick. In Sausalito, you'll find two elephant statues, Jumbo and PeeWee, originally came from the 1915 Pan-Pacific Int Expo in San Francisco. Mill Valley has community activities (like the sweater trees!), and I love the history of the
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Gravity Train. San Rafael definitely has the most action, and I’ll take any excuse to get spring rolls at Laos Kitchen. Lynda’s Pick: Mill Valley: it balances old Marin charm with a little bling, great music and wonderful food, in a walkable center, under the shade of redwoods and steps to trails. Nikki C.’s Pick: My favorite town square is Mill Valley; having lived there for nearly two decades it never tires. I love sitting outside the Depot listening to music and watching the kids and dogs run around, grabbing drinks at Corner Bar or Bungalow 44, and walking down to the Lumber Yard — sitting with friends with a glass of wine and pizza at Watershed. Emma’s Pick: While I may be a bit biased, I’d have to say Novato, since that’s where I grew up. I love the trees that line the street, and it’s perfectly walkable. There are so many cute shops to peruse, and places like Dr. Insomniac’s and Finnegan’s have great outdoor dining. Lesley’s Pick: Sausalito town square; love the mix of tourists and locals, and trying to
guess who’s who. Love that there’s saltiness in that town along with all of the upscale, and views of the San Francisco Bay. I also love downtown San Rafael because it’s one of the more diverse cities in Marin. Jim’s Pick: Main Street in Tiburon, its mellowness allows for intense people watching. Matt’s Pick: I love the blink-and-you’llmiss-it downtown area at Stinson Beach. The Parkside Café’s onsite bakery makes the best chocolate croissant this side of the Mississippi. In the afternoon I love to sit at at Breakers Café and catch a cozy buzz on Spanish Gin & Tonics (its specialty). Logan’s Pick: Larkspur’s downtown is the best for me as it has great dining options like Perry’s, Picco and Keiko Fish, while also having spots like Equator Coffees and the shack ice cream.
Best al fresco lunch or brunch? Zack’s Pick: If you’re in San Anselmo, head to Comfort’s and grab their signature Chinese Chicken Salad — utterly delicious. The Chicken Okasan is another favorite.
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Kate’s Pick: Perry’s on Magnolia and/or Sam’s Anchor Cafe. Sharon and Karen’s Pick: Sam’s Anchor Cafe in Tiburon. Lotus’s Pick: Hopmonk Tavern for its lively beer garden vibe, a lovely patio that is perfect for al fresco dining. Mimi’s Pick: Oh I miss the Siren Cafe in Stinson, but now if I can be patient with the lines, a breakfast burrito at Equator in Sausalito is quite perfect! Helena’s Pick: You can head into Sausalito for a delicious lunch at Fish., or you can ride a bit further into Tiburon and eat at the famous Sam’s. Be sure to stop by the Historic Mountain Home Inn for some lunch and a well-deserved Aperol Spritz. Nikki C.’s Pick: After a hike, I love brunch at the Lighthouse in Corte Madera. Lesley’s Pick: Brunch at Half Day Café or Comforts. Matt’s Pick: Bar Bocce so wins. Bay views with outdoor seating and fire pits. Start with the warm olives and progress to the
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Nectarine Pizza with bacon (mmmmm — bacon), gorgonzola, wild arugula, honey and thyme. Bottle of red, bottle of white, then it’s time to pop off your Jimmy Choos and stroll the beach. Other faves include Le Garage (sexy AF French) and the sidewalk tables at Poggio (Best. Waiters. Ever.).
when their cows are having a bad day.”) Multi-generational dairy ranches date back nearly two centuries in West Marin, and the culture of farm/ranch-fresh West Marin cuisine is worth exploring. Do your homework first: Read an article about Sue and Peggy, then make the scenic drive to Point Reyes and eat way too much cheese.
Logan’s Pick: Sam’s Anchor Cafe offers an ideal outdoor dining experience for lunch as it has dozens of tables that look out on the bay as well as the city of San Francisco.
Logan’s Pick: The Throckmorton Theater in Mill Valley puts on excellent plays and musicals that show off local talent of all ages, drawing in viewers from all across the Bay Area.
Avery’s Pick: Salito’s or Joinery.
Where to learn about local culture? Zack’s Pick: Sweetwater for live music, Rafael for films, Pond Farms to watch sports and Book Passage for live author events. Sharon’s Pick: Whether it’s seeing David Sedaris at Book Passage or catching one of the many outstanding authors and speakers at the Marin Veterans’ Memorial Auditorium, Marin offers no shortage of cultural events. Mimi’s Pick: Depends on the type of culture. I might take them on a movie location tour, or if they are here during the summer, I try to coordinate with the Mountain Play. The Cushing Theater has to be the coolest open air theater with the best views on the planet. Nikki C.’s Pick: Just grab a coffee from the Depot in Mill Valley or at Acri in Downtown Tiburon and talk to a local; you’ll engage in great stories about local culture! Emma’s Pick: Exploring any local Farmers’ Market is a great way to get a feel for Marin’s culture including the people, businesses and atmosphere. Lesley’s Pick: Muir Woods. Matt’s Pick: I once wrote an article for Architectural Digest magazine about Sue Conley and Peggy Smith, the founders of Cowgirl Creamery in Point Reyes (I still remember the lede: “Sue and Peggy know
Avery’s Pick: Sweetwater Music Hall, Bay Model Visitor Center, Point Bonita Lighthouse, Coit Tower, the Golden Gate Bridge, cable cars in SF and the Mission district in the city.
Where to learn about local history? Zack’s Pick: Don’t sleep on the Bay Model! Sharon’s Pick: Angel Island for sure as it’s one of the Bay Area’s most significant historical destinations.
Emma’s Pick: The Museum of the American Indian at Miwok Park. I grew up coming here, and seeing the artifacts and learning about the Miwok tribe is both so interesting and also extremely important. Lesley’s Pick: Love Mill Valley history around the Depot and the train that went up Mount Tam. Matt’s Pick: If you know where to go, the Marin Headlands has a slew of remnants of one of America’s largest coastal defense systems. Beginning in the late 1800s, the U.S. Army built three forts here, massive WWII bunkers, Cold War Nike missile sites and underground ammunition tunnels. Ironically, the guns were only fired once in combat. At a cormorant. Somebody thought it was a Japanese submarine periscope. Logan’s Pick: The Angel Island State Park is just a ferry ride away from downtown Tiburon, and includes several different hiking trails that show off the history of the island.
Mimi’s Pick: If their visit is on a Thursday or Sunday, I make sure we got to the Marin County Farmer’s Market for some treats from the food trucks, and then tour the halls of the Civic Center, especially the second floor, where you’ll find articles about how we were able to lure Frank Loyd Wright to create such an interesting design. Or if they geek out about things like ‘exact spots where something happened’ type of thing, I’ll walk to the the exact spot where Chief Miwok was reportedly born on Locust Street in Mill Valley, or drive you to the Marconi Center in West Marin. There, in 1913 Guglielmo Marconi, the Italian inventor often credited as the father of radio, built a station that helped prove messages could be sent across oceans without wires. Nikki C.’s Pick: The Marin Headlands served as a strategic base during the Civil War. You can also visit the bunkers used during WWII and the Cold War-era Nike
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Missile site. Additionally, it offers the most stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge.
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C A L E N DA R ON THE SCENE DINE
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OUT ABOUT Community Ongoings
OUTSIDE LANDS
Fairs, fests, performances and other excellent events.
Outside Lands
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CALENDAR
Squeeze the last drops out of summer this August with live theater, museum exhibits, outdoor festivals and unforgettable Bay Area events. Here’s our guide to the best happenings around the Bay this month. E D I T E D BY L AY L A B A K H S H A N D E H
Dog Surfing Championships
Top August Events AUGUST 1 World Dog Surfing Championships PACIFICA
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. Activities will include the surf competition, a dog beach fashion contest, dog adoptions and more. 5000 CA-1. surfdogchampionships.com AUGUST 7–9 Outside Lands
SAN FRANCISCO
Headlined by superstars, this music festival draws thousands every year for stellar shows, great food and an exciting weekend in Golden Gate Park. Among the headlines is Charli xcx, The Strokes and Rüfüs Du Sol offering festival lovers a wide variety of music to get down to. Golden Gate Park, 501 Stanyan Street. sfoutsidelands.com AUGUST 21 & 28 West End Block Party This weekly Friday block party packs downtown San Rafael’s Fourth Street with music and community beginning August 21 and running through midOctober. Keep tabs on the website for updated 2026 performers. Downtown San Rafael.
downtownsanrafael.org
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TASTE TV AND JACK OWICKI
SAN RAFAEL
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OUTDOOR SHOWS & EVENTS AUGUST 1–2 Nihonmachi Street Fair SAN FRANCISCO
The 52nd annual Nihonmachi Street Fair returns to Japantown, celebrating AAPI communities from across the Bay Area. From its humble beginnings as a four-booth event to provide mentorship to Japantown youth, this festival has grown into a weekend-long affair featuring dedicated activity areas for kids, dogs, shopping and more. 1581 Webster Street. nihonmachistreetfair.org AUGUST 7–9 Gem Faire SAN RAFAEL
This marketplace for all things shiny and bright tours around the country before making a stop at our county seat, the Marin Civic Center in San Rafael. Add to your geode collection or browse the finest stones at the weekend-long event. 10 Avenue of the Flags.
gemfaire.com
AUGUST 9 Pancakes on Mount Tam MILL VALLEY
Attention hikers: Have you ever been met with pancakes after climbing a mountain? The West Point Inn’s summer fundraiser is back, and that means pancake breakfasts from the quaint lodge this August. Reservations are required, and guests can check their website for multiple ways to hike or bike in. Fire Road, 100 Old Railroad Grade. westpointinn.com AUGUST 15 – SEPTEMBER 7 Love’s Labour’s Lost MILL VALLEY’S
Curtain Theatre stages Love’s Labour’s Lost beneath the redwoods of Old Mill Park, on weekends and Labor Day Monday. Best of all, Curtain Theatre’s performances are completely free. 35 Miller Avenue.
curtaintheatre.org AUGUST 21 Miller Nights MILL VALLEY
With portions of Miller Avenue closed to traffic and Depot Plaza buzzing with activity, the event brings together music, outdoor dining and local shopping in a celebration of summer. The festivities run from 5–8
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with 21 productions and 61 performances by artists from across the country. The “fringe-style” festival highlights new and experimental works, offering a chance to experience inventive independent theater.
1695 18th Street. playground-sf.org
MUSIC
THURSDAYS Concerts at Marin Art and Garden Center ROSS
p.m., and kids won’t want to miss the craft zone and bouncy house. 85 Throckmorton Avenue. enjoymillvalley.com
ART, THEATER & LECTURES
COMEDY
SAN FRANCISCO
AUGUST 6–8 Mark Normand at Cobb’s Comedy Club SAN FRANCISCO
New Orleans-born comedian Mark Normand heads to San Francisco this August for a three-night stint at Cobb’s Comedy Club. Now based in New York, Normand was famously dubbed by Jerry Seinfeld as the “best young up-and-coming comic” and is known for his prolific stand-up style. 915 Columbus Ave. cobbscomedy.com AUGUST 27–29 Derrick Stroup at Punch Line San Francisco SAN FRANCISCO
As the month winds down, catch Derrick Stroup at Punch Line San Francisco for a night of Southern-style comedy. The Alabama native and self-proclaimed Waffle House enthusiast brings his signature storytelling and high-energy humor to the stage as part of his Mad About Nothing tour. 444 Battery Street. punchlinecomedyclub.com
FILM
AUGUST 6 CatVideoFest SAN RAFAEL
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 the Smith Rafael Film Center. 1118 Fourth Street. catvideofest.com
AUGUST 6 Chromatic Narratives at Caldwell Snyder
The works of California artists Melissa Chandon, Deladier Almeida, Matt Rogers and Siddharth Parasnis will be on display at Caldwell Snyder. The exhibit intends to use color, abstraction and light to interpret and represent the relationship we have with our surrounding environments. 341 Sutter Street.
caldwellsnyder.com
AUGUST 14 – SEPTEMBER 13 Julius Caesar SAN RAFAEL
Marin Shakespeare Company presents a powerful exploration of political violence with a modern staging of William Shakespeare’s tragedy Julius Caesar. The production runs from August 14 through September 13 under the redwoods at Forest Meadows Amphitheatre. 890 Belle Avenue.
marinshakespeare.org
AUGUST 27 – SEPTEMBER 20 The White Chip MILL VALLEY
In The White Chip, playwright Sean Daniels tells the story of a theater professional whose career is thriving even as addiction threatens to unravel his life. Both humorous and candid, this autobiographical play follows Steven’s path toward sobriety, exploring the setbacks, revelations and resilience that come with recovery. 397 Miller Avenue.
This summer concert series hops over to the Redwood Amphitheater stage at Marin Art and Garden Center. Shows continue at the Redwood Amphitheater through the end of the month. Guests are encouraged to bring a picnic, blanket, or seat cushion, as the venue offers bench-style seating beneath the redwood trees. 30 Sir Francis Drake Boulevard. maringarden.org
AUGUST 9 Belvedere Concerts in the Park BELVEDERE
Neatly tucked away in Belvedere Community Park, the city hosts a summer concert series for residents looking to dance the afternoon away. This month, catch reggae and roots rock band Native Elements from 4–6 p.m. Bring a picnic, blanket or chair and enjoy this free community event. 450 San Rafael Avenue. cityofbelvedere.org AUGUST 23 Marin Bluegrass Sessions MILL VALLEY
This live, open-jam performance invites intermediate and advanced musicians to take the famed Sweetwater stage and join fellow players for an afternoon of bluegrass. The event is open to the public, with doors opening at 11:30 a.m. and music running from noon to 2 p.m. 19 Corte Madera Avenue. sweetwatermusichall.org
TOP LEFT: MARIN ART AND GARDEN CENTER; BOTTOM RIGHT: COURTESY OF CATVIDEOFEST
Marin Art and Garden Center Summer Concert Series
marintheatre.org
THRU AUGUST 23 Free-Play Festival SAN FRANCISCO
The Free-Play Festival, one of the country’s oldest fringe theater festivals, returns
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‘The Real You,’ CatVideoFest
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OUT AND ABOUT READING LIST
MUSEUMS
THRU AUGUST 30 The Shape of Thought SAN RAFAEL
Marin Museum of Contemporary Art brings together six women artists in an exhibition designed to spark questions and encourage reflection. The Shape of Thought showcases diverse works that explore the pleasures and rigors of dedicated skill and attention. 1210 Fifth Avenue. marinmoca.org
AUTHOR TALK
Vanessa Hua’s ambitious Coyoteland reflects a topsy turvy world. we were at a hinge point: Would we try to go back to the way things were, would we try to forge a better way forward, or would the pendulum swing back to worse than before? After writing two novels, a story collection and your journalism career, did you feel more confident writing a story as ambitious as Coyoteland? Or was the opposite true?
MORE OUTDOOR FUN AUGUST 1 Marin Century Bike Race WEST MARIN
TOP LEFT: MARIN ART AND GARDEN CENTER; BOTTOM RIGHT: COURTESY OF CATVIDEOFEST
Marin Century Bike Rides returns this year, offering five different courses ranging from 37 to 127 miles. Not for amateur cyclists, the event’s most popular ride is the “Century,” named for the challenge it poses: a 100-mile route through the rolling hills of West Marin. Riders can roll across the finish line and into an after-party featuring live music, food vendors and craft beer. 3549 Novato Boulevard. marincyclists.com
EVENTS
AUGUST 7–9 Travel Writers & Photographers Conference CORTE MADERA
World-class writers and photographers with world-spanning CVs gather at Book Passage for this annual trade conference. Workshops, panels and evening activities fill the weekend for the event’s 34th year. 51 Tamal Vista Boulevard. bookpassage.com AUGUST 8 & 9 Pistahan Parade & Festival
MARC PUICH; COURTESY OF BOOK PASSAGE
SAN FRANCISCO
Gather for a weekend of authentic Filipino food, dance and music at S.F.’s Yerba Buena Gardens, plus the largest Filipino parade on the West Coast. The Pistahan (Tagalog for “festival”) was born out of protest, when in 1994 thousands of Filipino families were displaced to develop the Moscone Center and Yerba Buena Gardens. Today, the tradition persists, and every year pavilions pop up for Filipino dance, food, art, innovation and more. 750 Howard Street. pistahan.net
Across much of her work, Bay Areabased writer and journalist Vanessa Hua delves into the myriad ways a story’s setting affects our sense of identity. In her new novel, Coyoteland, the setting is the fictional East Bay neighborhood of El Nido, which slowly becomes a pressure-cooker for the trigger issues of contemporary society. It’s deftly told through multiple perspectives, including that of an actual coyote. I’m always curious about where stories originate. Can you talk about the initial idea or ideas that sparked Coyoteland?
In the early days of the pandemic, I was out for a morning walk where I live, in the hills east of Berkeley, when I heard what sounded like the clatter of high heels outside of a night club. I turned and couldn’t believe my eyes: A coyote was barreling towards me, chased by two deer. A neighbor later told me that the deer had initially crept into a ravine and the coyote followed. Once cornered, the deer must have realized they were two against one and chased the coyote out. It made me think about territory, about predator and prey. It was another sign of how topsy turvy the world felt then. It was a year of multiple overlapping crises: the pandemic, protests against police brutality and massive wildfires that turned the sky orange. When I began writing the novel the following year,
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Each book teaches you how to write that particular book. And with each book, I’ve tried to take on a new challenge. It was exhilarating and terrifying to tell a story through the eyes of four different families, a coyote and an omniscient narrator. I’d doubt myself, wondering if I could pull it off. I had to try to tell the story of a community. What advice would you give to your younger self when you were just starting out as a writer?
Years ago, I joked to a writer friend that we didn’t need a life coach; we wanted a psychic — someone who could tell us that everything would turn out, and that our books would get published. To weather the ups and downs, you have to be able to make peace with that uncertainty; there are no guarantees. I’d also emphasize the importance of community. Writing itself is solitary, but seek out other kindred spirits with whom you can commiserate and celebrate. We are so lucky in the Bay Area, with excellent independent bookstores, writing conferences, magazines including ZYZZYVA and Alta, Litquake and the Bay Area Book Festival, and communities like The Writers Grotto. Vanessa will appear at Book Passage Corte Madera on the “Capturing A Sense of Place” panel at the Book Passage Travel Writers Conference on Saturday August 8, at 2:30 p.m.
For the full conversation with Vanessa Hua, scan the QR code.
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CHEF’S TIPS
PEOPLE PLACES CAUSES
Get the full recipe here.
The Buckeye Roadhouse’s Sesame-Crusted Ahi Tuna
BY THE S R NUMBE
For nearly nine decades, Buckeye Roadhouse has been woven into the fabric of Marin County dining. Nestled at the gateway to Mill Valley, the restaurant has evolved from a historic roadside inn into one of the region’s most recognizable culinary landmarks. Known for its rustic charm, warm hospitality, and enduring menu favorites, Buckeye Roadhouse attracts everyone from local regulars to visitors seeking a classic Marin experience. Make your own special meal at home with this recipe from Chef Robert Price, Executive Chef at the Buckeye Roadhouse. His seared ahi tuna appetizer is a menu favorite, as quintessentially iconic as the restaurant itself. It’s light, fresh, and healthy, infused with Asian flavor and heat.
89 YEARS BUCKEYE HAS SERVED MARIN DINERS 25 YEARS CHEF PRICE HAS BEEN AT BUCKEYE 20 YEARS AHI HAS BEEN ON THE MENU 150 AHI APPETIZERS PREPARED EACH WEEK
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MIMI TOWLE; BOTTOM RIGHT: MATT SPINETTA | PRISMIC PHOTOGRAPHY
BY LY N DA B A L S L E V
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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 Photo Credit: Prismic Photography 2024
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!
Professional. Stylish. Unforgettable. Why choose 27/17 Bar Service?
How to connect: @2717barservice 2717barservice@gmail.com
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
www.2717BarService.com www.2717BarService.com 2717BarService_0826_FNL.indd 1
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DINE
Support Your Local Planned Parenthood
E BECAUS
CORTE MADERA
E CAR
CAN’T
WAIT.
SCAN TO DONATE
Your support keeps care close to home — including at our San Rafael Health Center, serving Marin when it matters most.
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
A Night in Tuscany PRESENTED BY:
BENEFITING:
Join North Bay Children's Center for an evening of exceptional food, fine wine, exciting auctions, entertainment, and community impact. Every ticket helps provide high-quality early childhood education, nutritious meals, mental health support, and family services that give children the strongest possible start in life.
BB
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
Saturday, September 19, 2026 Gambonini Family Ranch • Petaluma Reserve your tickets at https://nbcc.ejoinme.org/NIT2026 We’re honored to recognize Chef Dustin Valette (Chef/Owner of Valette, The Matheson, Roof 106, Valette Wines) as our Champion for Children
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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
$
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. 123 Bolinas Rd, Fairfax, 415.419.5465; lagastronomiadi porchetta.com BB
$
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Sorella Caffe Italian 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 $
LARKSPUR Perry’s on Magnolia American Perry’s on Magnolia has the same classic American cuisine, bustling bar and warm service and personality the San Francisco original has always been famous for. Plentiful outdoor dining options. It’s bar is a perennial best of the county winner. 234 Magnolia Ave, 415.927.1877; perryssf.com BB
Pizzeria Picco Pizza This family-friendly parlor next door to Picco offers Californiainfluenced Neapolitan pizzas cooked in a wood-burning oven. Fresh mozzarella is pulled in-house and the menu also features organic salads, antipasti and Straus Dairy soft-serve ice cream. Heated outdoor seating is available. 316 Magnolia Ave, 415.945.8900; pizzeriapicco.com $
MILL VALLEY Buckeye Roadhouse 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
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Explore the Garden Wander and Wonder A free, non-profit community resource for inspiration and connection
Marin’s premier garden venue
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 HH
Community Events
Summer Concerts, Edible Garden Fundraiser, Winter Wonderland
Workshops and Programs
Year-round classes supporting connection through art, education, and nature
Experience this 11-acre garden with an art studio, theater company, preschool, and a playground. maringarden.org
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OUT AND ABOUT DINE 415.883.7793; thespeakeasy novato.com HH
Comforts, San Anselmo
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, and roasted mushroom pizza with taleggio fonduta and black truffle oil. 625 Redwood Hwy, 415.380.2525; piatti.com
Playa Mexican Playa offers traditional dishes with modern flavors. 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 tequilas and mezcals but the el Slushie and house margarita have legions of fans and are perfect for sipping on the large.
41 Throckmorton Ave, 415.384.8871; playamv.com BB
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Sweetwater Music Hall’s Rock & Rye American The menu features 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. 19 Corte Madera Ave, 415.388.3850; sweet watermusichall.com BB
Tam Tavern American Previously known as Floodwater, this local favorite has been reinvented to deliver homely bites and a variety of beers on tap. There will even
be some beer-infused cocktails for a unique twist on some classic drinks. 152 Shoreline Hwy, 415.843.4545; tamtavernmv.com HH
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NOVATO Perry’s Novato American Epic burgers and cocktails, excellent service, signature blue-and-white gingham tablecloths — expect all of those and more here at Perry’s northernmost location. 224 Alameda Del Prado, 415.506.4212; perryssf.com
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The Village Italian Restaurant Italian A Novato staple for any occasion, the Village captures hearts with comforting Italian fare served in its spacious downtown locale. They’ve got something for everybody, with ample options for pasta, pizza, salad and entrees like chicken parm or piccata. The carbonara? Che buono. Don’t miss the puffy, pillowy “pasta bread” — best eaten dripping in garlic butter. 1200 Grant Ave, 415.898.2234; the villageitalian restaurant.com BB
Trailhead American Order breakfast, shareable snacks, paninis, salads, and Equator coffee drinks at the counter before grabbing a seat on the all-day café’s shaded patio. The baked goat cheese is a standout and pairs with the 10 local beers and two wines available on tap or from the craft can program. 127 San Marin Dr, 415.493.6902; trailheadnovato.com
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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
$
Creekside Pizza & Tap Room American A perennial Best of the County winner known for their artisan pizzas, 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 Come by for homemade pastas, seasonal salads, and woodfired 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
Marché Californian Into the former Marche aux Fleurs space, Marché’s owners Darren and Alicia Banks focus on seasonal ingredients in plates of avocado toast with Urfa chile, shishito peppers with togarashi, and house made gnocchi with shiitakes is Californian all the way. 23 Ross Common, Ross; 415.925.9200; marchemarin.com
The Baan Thai Cuisine Thai Known for its mango sticky rice, crispy corn cakes and The Baan Thai salad, 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
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The Speakeasy American In addition to the 10 beers on tap, cocktails range from the 1920s to the 2020s. A shareable, tapas-style menu includes grilled maitake mushrooms, escargot and mini street tacos. 504 Alameda del Prado,
$
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
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
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Kuro Nami Japanese Kitchen Japanese Kuro Nami, which means “black wave,” is a new 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
Valenti & Co. Italian The bright yet cozy indoor space and warmly lit back patio are ideal environments 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
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T HE B AY AREA D ESI G N MARKET I S T H RI VI N G. M A KE YOUR B RAN D I MPOSSI B LE TO MI SS. SPACES continues its momentum in 2027 with our signature Annual edition and a new Summer issue — celebrating the people, places, and ideas shaping exceptional design across the Bay Area. Each issue features inspiring homes, compelling editorial, curated product galleries, and an extensive Design & Building Resource Guide that readers return to long after publication. Partnering with SPACES puts your brand in front of a highly engaged audience of affluent homeowners, architects, interior and landscape designers, builders, high-end real estate brokers, and design enthusiasts throughout Marin, San Francisco, the Peninsula, the East Bay, and Wine Country.
For SPACES marketing opportunities contact: advertising@marinmagazine.com
SPAC ESMAG .COM
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OUT AND ABOUT DINE showcased the cuisine of the Campania regionfor more than 20 years. 621 Bridgeway, 415.331.5225; angelino restaurant.com
Cucina SA, San Anselmo
Valenti’s famous tower of triple chocolate love at dessert. 337 San Anselmo Ave, 415.454.7800; valentico.com
SAN RAFAEL Chonmage Ramen Japanese The focus at Chonmage Ramen iss on balancing rich flavor with a clean lighter finish. The broth is slow simmered then carefully refined, resulting in a depth of flavor that is rich yet not heavy. They use fresh ingredients and simple seasonings, creating ramen that is satisfying without feeling heavy and made to be enjoyed anytime. Authentic Japanese flavor crafted for everyday comfort. 1020 Court St, 415.450-8889; thechonmage.com
Humbowl Californian With exciting flavor profiles ranging from Thai curry to breakfast fare, Humbowl’s offerings are hearty, healthy and made with fresh ingredients. Many of their menu items are even easy to turn vegan. 1016 Court St; 415.795.8922; humbowleats.com BB
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La Toscana Ristorante & Bar Italian 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. 3751 Redwood Hwy, 415.492.9100; ristorantelas toscana.com
Red Rooster Brick Oven American Red Rooster wings are a must-order at an allday Italian American restaurant with a sprinkling of Asian flavors. A thin crust pizza pulled from the brick oven is available at breakfast, too (glutenfree crust is available). The buttermilk-fried chicken sandwich with house made chipotle aioli has a dedicated following and the Boston clam chowder might just convince a few New Englanders to relocate. 901 B St, 415.234.8414; redroosterbrick oven.com $
SAUSALITO Angelino Restaurant Italian Multiple generations of the Ancona family create an authentic Italian eatery with handmade pastas and seasonal antipasti that has
Barrel House Tavern Californian Stop by Barrel House for a feeling of rising above it all (it’s on the second floor) where the soaring ceiling work reflects the restaurant’s name. The barrelaged cocktails are worth a visit (try the Negroni) but dishes like maitake mushroom flatbread and tartare tacos reflect a locally-focused ethos that is enhanced by the cool setting and fantastic bay and city views. 660 Bridgeway, 415.729.9593; barrelhousetavern.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 $
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
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Fish Seafood It has been said that this restaurant and fish market launched the sustainable seafood
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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
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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
Sula Californian Cavallo Point’s signature dining room refreshed point of view tilts Mediterranean with local influences from chef Mike Garcia. The menu includes a not-to-be-missed Fuyu persimmon salad, beets with shiitake mushroom blini, and porcini-crusted Wagyu filet. The adjacent Sula
Lounge boasts plentiful couches from which to enjoy a glass of bubbles with Tsar Nicoulai caviar service or small plates of grilled uni butter oysters. Across the foyer, Farley continues its all-day meal service. 601 Murray Circle, 415.339.4750; dineatsula.com
TIBURON 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. 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
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Luxury Fire Features. Outdoor Living, Elevated.
Stay Comfortable. Save Money. All Year Long.
Sustainability / Efficiency / Comfort San Rafael Showroom Now Open! SDI-FIREPLACES.COM
Insulation is our art. Serving the Bay Area over 47 years. SDI-INSULATION.COM
WE DO
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OUT AND ABOUT DINE 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
Tiburon Tavern, Tiburon
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; saltandpeppertiburon.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
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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
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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
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Troya Restaurant Mediterranean Born out of SF, Tiburon’s Troya serves the same beloved TurkishMediterranean cuisine with brunch, lunch and dinner menus. The dainty yet modern Mediterranean interior design contributes to the ambience that teleports you right across the world. 1 Blackfield Dr, Ste 12; 415.888.9281; troyatiburon.com BB
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Via Piccola Trattoria Italian Pedro and Maria Ulloa (formerly of San Rafael’s Arrivederci) serve dishes like veal saltimbocca and handmade pappardelle alla Abruzzese (gluten-free pasta is available) at lunch and dinner with tiramisu or key lime pie for dessert. Their petite restaurant at The Cove Shopping Center has a heated patio, shaded from the lights in the adjoining parking lot. 1 Blackfield Dr. #11 at The Cove, 415.388.9100; viapiccola.com
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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 makes the most of fog-whipped and rainy days. 23240 Highway 1, Marshall, 415.663.1033; nickscove.com
Rancho Nicasio 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 pork-belly 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
Tony’s Seafood Seafood 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. 18863 Shoreline Hwy, Marshall, 415.663.1107; tonysseafood restaurant.com
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Brunch Date Spot Dogs Welcome Full Bar Grab ’n Go
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Meal under $20 Outdoor Seating Private Party Room Round Tables Watch the Game Worth the Hype
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Fairfax Mill Valley genatural.com
ROMAN TRATTORIA STYLE CAFÉ AND WINE BAR Each dish has a story!
Café Zoetrope is located in the majestic Sentinel Building, a San Francisco historic landmark in the heart of North Beach, and the home to Francis Ford Coppola’s American Zoetrope Studio (film production company where the origin of the Café name comes from).
CAFEZOETROPE.COM • (415) 291-1700 * 916 KEARNY STREET, SAN FRANCISCO MARIN
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OUT AND ABOUT ON THE SCENE
THE
ON SCENE BY EMMA R OBERTSON
HOT TICKET 3
Racing Towards Success WHO: The Helix School WHAT: Paths to Possibilities 5K WHEN: April 26 WHERE: Marin Civic Center Lagoon Park, San Rafael
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WHY: To raise funds in support of the organization’s mission as a non-public school for students with autism spectrum disorder.
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1 Racers at the finish line 2 Rebecca Gustin, a Helix parent 3 Jared Huffman, Marjorie McMorris, Pat Hornbecker
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HOT TICKET
A NIGHT ‘UNDER THE STARS’
WHAT: Under the Stars annual gala WHEN: April 30
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WHERE: The Clubhouse at Peacock Gap, San Rafael WHY: To support the organization’s mission to prevent and resolve homelessness through fundraising, and to award notable contributors.
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TOP: DREW ALTIZER PHOTOGRAPHY; BOTTOM: REDEL FRAZIER
1 Outdoor reception 2 Dr. Swati Awsare and Mark Shotwell 3 Mario Ernesto Lopez (left) and Rachel Kertz (right) with two guests (middle)
WHO: Ritter Center
TOP: PETER DASILVA; BOTTOM: TERESA O’BRIEN PHOTOGRAPHY
1 xxx 2 xx 3 xxx
HOT TICKET
CARE WITH A CAUSE WHO: Planned Parenthood of Northern California WHAT: Acts of Courage annual fundraiser WHEN: May 16 WHERE: Palace of Fine Arts, San Francisco WHY: To continue protecting reproductive rights in California and raise funds to keep Planned Parenthood an open and available resource to the community.
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1 Guests show their bid numbers 2 Shantay Hudson, Brad Trask, Tracy Seo, Lester Reffigee, Dr. Nicole Barnett, Jesus RamirezValles, Kym Cook, Candace Randolph 3 Rob Bonta, Michael Fields, Dr. Nicole Barnett
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HOT TICKET
ENCOURAGING CONNECTION AND CONVERSATION
TOP: DREW ALTIZER PHOTOGRAPHY; BOTTOM: REDEL FRAZIER
WHO: By the Bay Health WHAT: Gathered, this year’s annual gala
1 Skelly Wingard 2 Diane and Al Kallet 3 Keith Schultz and Karen May
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WHEN: May 30 WHERE: The Clubhouse at Peacock Gap, San Rafael WHY: To support By the Bay Health, as one of two independent nonprofit hospices in the Bay Area, and to honor notable community contributors.
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OUT AND ABOUT ON THE SCENE
MEDIA PARTNER
Cavallo Point ‘Kicks Off’ the Summer WHO: Cavallo Point and Marin Magazine WHAT: Summer Kickoff Party WHEN: June 14 WHERE: Cavallo Point, Sausalito
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WHY: To celebrate the revitalization of Cavallo Point by honoring the onset of summer, with live music, food, drinks and a great atmosphere.
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MATT SPINETTA | PRISMIC PHOTOGRAPHY
1 Frank Dean, Cathie Barner, Mike Freed, Ted Lieser, Greg Moore 2 David Martin (of David Martin's House Party) and Stephen Andrews 3 Rick and Trish Evanich 4 Mawla and Tina DAngelo
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5 Keith Warner, Rebecca Bruce, Warren Gendel, Leesa Gendel 6 Julie Nagorski and Ian Sobieski 7 Zack and Nicole Glenn 8 Christina Guerrero and Katherine Barger 9 Dave and Kate Urban 10 Eric Jensen, Kaylin Fox, Lina Lavi, Ray Raboy
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Seasoned. Local. Reads the room.
After 17 years in real estate, I know the work is never just about the house. It’s the people, the decisions, the timing, and the trust required to move through it well.
JENNIFER FERLAND
REAL ESTATE ADVISOR | 415.450.5990 | DRE 01995816 JFERLAND@COMPASS.COM | JENFERLAND.COM
Compass is a real estate broker licensed by the State of California and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. License Number 01527235. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only and is compiled from sources deemed reliable but has not been verified. Changes in price, condition, sale or withdrawal may be made without notice. No statement is made as to accuracy of any description. All measurements and square footages are approximate.
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MARIN HOME
M A K E OV E R S R E A LTO R I N S I G H T S D E TA I L S
Ready for a New Chapter BY LOTUS ABRAMS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ADAM ROUSE
In Fairfax, a home is renovated for empty nesting and family visits.
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A new 400-square-foot ADU serves as a pool house and guest suite.
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H HO OM ME E B BA AC CK KS ST TO OR RY Y
The pool was relocated to better capture the views.
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n empty nest prompted a couple in Mill Valley to search for a home to spend the next stage of their lives in — a place to both relax together and entertain friends and family. A 1920s-era, 2,700-square-foot home in Fairfax on an acre property overlooking the Mt. Tamalpais watershed was in need of a renovation, but they could see the potential. The couple called Heidi Richardson, principal architect at Richardson Pribuss Architects, whom they’d worked with on another property, as well as interior designer Danielle E. Velasco, principal of MADE Design Co., to help them reimagine the home. Among their asks: Strengthen the connection between the interiors and the surrounding landscape, build an ADU to host guests, create a poolcentered outdoor living space, improve the home’s functionality for frequent family gatherings, and update the aesthetic to suit their lifestyle. First, however, they needed to tackle the entrance.
Details WHERE Fairfax
“The problem was that They decided to capture WHAT it wasn’t really clear where the view by installing a 1920s-era renovation and addition the front door was,” Richlarge window above the ARCHITECT ardson recalls. “We raised gas fireplace, now clad in Richardson Pribuss Architects the roofline and made the geometric-patterned white INTERIOR DESIGN entrance a feature, so there tile. A Carl Hansen & Son MADE Design Co. would be no mistake — sofa and RH swivel chairs CONSTRUCTION and we also directed the allow guests to appreciate McGuire & Sons landscape there.” The team the views from various LANDSCAPE DESIGN also incorporated some of vantage points. The Land Collaborative the space outside the enIn the kitchen, updates trance under the original included a new built-in overhang into the interior breakfast nook, custom floorplan to carve out room for custom cabinetry, stone countertops and zellige cabinetry, a built-in bench and a proper tile. Completing the space, a cozy seating laundry area. area by a small fireplace features his-andThe team also improved the home’s conher lounge chairs by Carl Hansen & Son nection to the outdoors by adding larger atop a hide rug. “It’s such a sweet reflection windows throughout, as well as a multiof the clients — simple and meaningful, slide door out to the deck in the living beautiful and functional,” Velasco says. room, where they made a surprising discov“The artwork on the wall is from a family ery while renovating. “When we opened trip during which they purchased five up the wall, there was Mt. Tam — no one carved African wooden statues representknew it would be there!” Richardson says. ing their five children.”
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The home’s bathrooms were renovated as well, with the primary bathroom undergoing the biggest transformation. “It had previously been sunken — you had to go downtown three stairs to get to it — and the layout wasn’t great,” Velasco explains. “We reconfigured it, raised it to the level of the primary bedroom, and opened it out onto the deck with a hot tub.” The outdoor areas of the home were also re-envisioned, starting with the pool. “Before, the pool was on the other side of the driveway, away from the house, and it was on unstable ground,” Richardson says. After relocating the pool to a more accessible site that is better oriented to the views, the team built a 400-square-foot ADU to serve as a pool house and guest suite, outfitted with a covered patio and kitchen and embellished in shades of blue. Plenty of lounge furniture and a sauna complete the outdoor entertaining space, and all exterior structures are painted in a dark charcoal shade for a cohesive appearance that doesn’t detract from the surrounding landscape. With the renovation complete, the property was ready to support the lifestyle the homeowners envisioned. Says Richardson, “They’ve got great views; they’ve got a lot of land; and most important, they have plenty of space to entertain grandchildren and family.”
Above: Upgrades in the kitchen include custom cabinetry, stone countertops and zellige tile. Right: The primary bathroom was reconfigured and opens to a deck. Below: A multi-panel sliding door to the deck and a new window capturing the view of Mt. Tam are among the upgrades in the living room.
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95 Irving Drive Secluded San Anselmo Estate with Captivating 270-Degree Views on Almost 4 Acres 6 BEDROOMS | 4 BATHROOMS SOLD IN ONE WEEK! $4,895,000
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2395 Sobre Vista Road Iconic Joseph Esherick Mid-Century Retreat with Sweeping Sonoma Valley Views on Nearly 8 Acres 3 BEDROOMS | 3 BATHROOMS PENDING! $2,395,000
Thomas Henthorne 415.847.5584 | thomas@thomashenthorne.com | thomashenthorne.com Lic. #01892608
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Exceptional Estate Villa with Panoramic Vistas
Tho
40 West Seaview Avenue, San Rafael AMAZING SCALE, SOPHISTICATION AND SENSATIONAL LIVING! • Custom villa, rebuilt 2003, on nearly one acre • 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths • 5,325 sq ft (per Open Homes; 5,290 per tax records) • Great room with chef ’s kitchen, dining, living & family rooms under soaring ceilings • Indoor-outdoor living: heated loggia, pool & outdoor BBQ • Sweeping Bay & ridgeline views, Mount Tamalpais to Mount Diablo • Romantic primary suite with sitting room & campanile tower retreat • Meandering pathways, fruit trees, gardens, patios & greenhouse • Three-car garage plus off-street parking • Near trails, marinas, golf, tennis, shopping, dining, schools & Hwy 101 • 40WSeaviewAve.com for more information or Contact Me Today!
Lindy Emrich TOP 1% OF REALTORS IN MARIN COUNTY 415.717.4005 | lindy@ggsir.com | LindyEmrich.com Lic.# 00511101
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Desirable Bret Hart Neighborhood 79 Billou St, San Rafael 3 beds | 2.5 baths | 1,881 sq. ft. | $1,175,000 Updated single-level ranch blending comfort and income potential. The main home offers hardwood floors and a granite kitchen plus a legal ADU with private entrance and kitchen, ideal for guests or rental income. Drought-tolerant yard, fruit trees and a detached studio.
Turnkey Modern Rancher in Novato’s Desirable President’s Area 1419 Buchanan Street, Novato 3 beds | 2 baths | 1,480 sq. ft. | $1,065,000 Thoughtfully upgraded with A/C, owned solar and batteries, on-demand water heater, and dual-pane windows. The remodeled kitchen boasts stone counters and stainless appliances. Spa-like primary suite, dual gas fireplaces, deck with awning, hot tub, and a two-car garage.
John Zeiter
Scan the QR Code to View Featured Listings
TOP 1% OF REALTORS IN MARIN COUNTY 415.720.1515 j.zeiter@ggsir.com MarinFineProperty.com Lic.# 01325942
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ELEVATED LIVING | TWO EXCLUSIVE NEW LISTINGS FROM THE NADINE GREEWOOD & CAMARA SCREMIN TEAM 82 MCNEAR RD, SAN RAFAEL 5 BD | 6.5 BA | 5,129 Sq Ft 82mcnear.com | $5,250,000 This extraordinary European-inspired estate offers a rare blend of timeless elegance, absolute privacy, and resortstyle living. The light-filled interior features grand cathedral ceilings, five ensuite bedrooms, and a private guest apartment, all anchored by a luxurious primary suite and a fire-resistant slate roof. Outside, the spectacular grounds function as a private oasis with a shimmering pool, pool house, and sweeping hillside views, all located just moments from premier golf courses, trails, and waterfront recreation.
307 NORTH ST, SAUSALITO Primary Residence: 3 Bed | 2 Bath | 2,230 Sq. Ft. Garden Level Unit: 2 Bed | 2 Bath | 950 Sq. Ft Street Level Unit: 1 Bed | 1 Bath | 600 Sq. Ft 307north.com | $5,000,000 This trophy Mediterranean triplex presents a rare opportunity to own one of Sausalito’s most exceptional view properties, showcasing breathtaking, panoramic vistas of the San Francisco skyline, the Bay, and surrounding islands. The flexible layout is ideal for investors, owner-users, or multigenerational living, allowing you to live in the main residence while generating substantial rental income or creating a private compound.
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I N T E G R I T Y. E X PE RTI SE. E XCEPTION AL R ESU LTS. Nadine Greenwood
REALTOR® 415.203.7050 nadine.greenwood@compass.com NadineAndCamara.com DRE 01332210
Camara Scremin
REALTOR® 415.902.7183 camara.scremin@compass.com NadineAndCamara.com DRE 01270273
Compass is a real estate broker licensed by the State of California and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. License Number 01527235. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only and is compiled from sources deemed reliable but has not been verified. Changes in price, condition, sale or withdrawal may be made without notice. No statement is made as to accuracy of any description. All measurements and square footage are approximate.
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MEGAN POMPONIO MAKING YOUR REAL ESTATE DREAMS A REALITY Honored to be included on the 2026 RealTrends Verified top 1.5% of real estate professionals nationwide*
Buyer Represented 81 Peacock Dr, San Rafael
194 Maestro Rd, Novato
160 Montego Ky, Novato
3 Bed 3 Bath 3,175 Sq Ft $2,298,000
4 Bed 3 Bath 2,830 Sq Ft $1,749,000
3 Bed 2 Bath 1,725 Sq Ft $1,850,000
REALTOR ® | MEGANPOMPONIO@GMAIL.COM | 415.827.9229 | DRE 01884035 *Source: RealTrends Verified 2026 Compass is the brand name used for services provided by one or more of the Compass group of subsidiary companies. Compass is a real estate broker licensed by the State of California and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. License Number 01866771. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only and is compiled from sources deemed reliable but has not been verified. Changes in price, condition, sale or withdrawal may be made without notice. No statement is made as to accuracy of any description. All measurements and square footage are approximate.
MEGANSELLSMARIN.COM
You find the home, and I’ll open the door. Sean Maley
Mortgage Loan Consultant / Fixer CA BRE #:1057229 | NMLS #: 237207
Direct: 415.845.9700
Email: smaley@guaranteemortgage.com Web: www.guaranteemortgage.com/sean-edward-maley Guarantee Mortgage 232 Townsend Street San Francisco, CA 94107
Web/Bio:
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FOR SALE: 324 Seadrift Road Seadrift.com
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SOLD: 122 Seadrift Road
Vacation Rentals and Sales | Seadrift.com | (415) 868-1791 | @SeadriftRealty | DRE#01862089
Why wait? Remodel your home or diversify your portfolio now. Unison can provide up to 17.5% of your home’s current value in cash, with no monthly payments. Find out more at unison.com Call us at 1.855.930.5770 ©2022 Unison Agreement Corp. All rights reserved.
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LOOKING BACK
A Colossal Artwork that Almost Wasn’t The Marin man who kept Running Fence running. BY JIM WOOD
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S ARTWORKS GO, Christo and Jeanne-Claude’s Running Fence was enormous. It was conceived in 1972, but would take four years of designing, engineering, cajoling, politicking and constructing before their masterpiece was completed. And then it was up for only two weeks. Running Fence would run for 24.5 miles and consist of 2,050 panels of white nylon supported by 2,050 18’ tall steel poles and 90 miles of steel cable that was held in place by 350,000 steel hooks. Running Fence would cut across a good portion of Sonoma County, a corner of Marin County and, for a grand finale, dip down a cliff and disappear into the Pacific Ocean. To accomplish this, the artists would set an Olympic record for Hoops Jumped Through. Five dozen ranchers had to allow the artwork to be constructed on their properties; 18 public hearings had to be held; three sessions of California’s Superior Court convened to
decide issues; and an Environmental Impact Report as thick as a prison wall. Somehow Christo and Jeanne-Claude prevailed; except for one item. According to SFGate, the California Coastal Commission hadn’t issued a permit for Running Fence to do that dramatic dip into the ocean. Why? Because the artists had failed to apply for one. Leave it to Don Dickenson, then a newly hired planning aide in Marin County’s Planning Department to spot this oversight and he felt compelled to notify not only the Coastal Commission, but also California’s attorney general of the commission. Such an oversight would result in Christo being served with an injunction to immediately halt construction and leave Running Fence unfinished. Yet Dickenson* understood and appreciated Christo, Jeanne-Claude and Running Fence, so he went in two directions. He called the offices of both the Coastal Commission and
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attorney general and left messages about Christo lacking a permit. He then raced to coastal Marin to warn Christo he could soon be served an order to cease and desist. However, when Dickenson reached the construction site, the artist was being interviewed on television and could not be interrupted. After Dickenson waited, Christo was whisked into hiding out in a nearby eucalyptus grove. Viola! The injunction was not served and Running Fence was completed, 24.5 miles from Cotati to the Marin County coast. *Eventually Don Dickenson became a senior county planner; then Mill Valley’s planning director for 16 years and served over two decades on Marin County’s Planning Commission. He is revered by Marin’s environmentally conscious community.
Santa Rosa’s Museum of Sonoma County is exhibiting Christo and Jeanne-Claude: Running Fence at 50 Years, through November 8, 2026.
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