Although the second generation of the Aversa family – siblings Lucia, Fabio and Costantino (Tino) – are now running the restaurant, the downtown restaurant’s famous ravioli have not changed.
Traditional to Sorrento and on the menu for at least 40 years, the pasta is as wide as a fist and stuffed with spinach and cheese. Veggies, a nod to modern sensibilities, have replaced spaghetti as the dish’s accompaniment. House made garlic bread is a must as is the pizza (the Ginestra has four kinds of meat) but more adventurous types will want to try the stracciatella soup and the fish of the day. And if you're thirsty for a real cocktail, make sure to order their Italian Gin & Tonic, a mouthwatering house specialty.
Don’t Miss: Funghi e Fontina Pizza, Fried Brussels Sprouts with Gorgonzola, Ravioli Ginestra
Perhaps best known for their signature Chinese Chicken Salad, the restaurant in downtown San Anselmo is beloved for its menu-wide attention to Asian and American flavors. Spring rolls with sweet chili sauce and a fried chicken sandwich with jalapeňo cole slaw share menu space with chicken Okasan (a.k.a.“Mom’s chicken”) and a vegetable frittata sandwich.
After a re-do of the interior added soft washes of color and blonde wood tables and chairs, the vibe is even more Californian.
Don’t miss: Chicken Pot Pie, Bacon-Fried Rice, Wor Won Ton Soup
A love letter to 16th century English style inns and their taverns, this one’s tucked into the fog-swept hills of West Marin, emerging like a sphinx when the weather clears.
Take a seat by the roaring fire to enjoy dishes that span from the British Isles to Northern California, like a plate of Marin-sourced oysters, ploughman’s lunch, or Guinness beef stew. Saddle on up to the bar where, not only does everybody know your name, but Guinness and many other beer brands are available on tap.
Don’t Miss: Cast Iron-Seared Liver & Onions, Zen Center Bread and Butter, Sticky Toffee Pudding
Perched on the water near Schoonmaker Beach, this French restaurant basks in its locale on sunny days, pulling up the garage doors to let the sunshine in.
The locale brings the crowds. Fans queue up for a seat on the patio and plates of moules marinière and Breton crepes stuffed with andouillette sausage or smoked salmon at brunch. Look for bouillabaisse, ratatouille tart and bavette steak at lunch and dinner. Happy hour, when special cheeses, charcuterie and small plates are available, is the go-to move for a somewhat mellower experience.
Don’t Miss: Salt Cod Beignets (when available), Sandwich au Jambon Roti, Salade Frisée au Lardons
A Basque cross ("ongi et orri," which means "welcome" in Basque) is your first hint that this long-running favorite in Santa Venetia serves Basque, French and Spanish bistro classics. Neighbors hang at the bar while others prefer the intimate, clubby dining room kitted with deep red carpets and red leather chairs.
Start a cross-border journey with escargots Bordelaise served in the traditional 6-plate so the tender meat is thoroughly bathed in garlic butter sauce. Frog legs have a crispy skin and tender, flaky meat. Regulars come for these and the main courses, like beef Bourguignons, served with soup of the day and salad. It’s all a reminder that simple food is delicious, especially when served on a warm early evening on the charming patio.
Don’t Miss: French Onion Soup, Scampi a la Plancha, Linguini Basquis with Chicken, Gateau Basque
