After eight years, Playa in Mill Valley is unveiling a reimagined menu that celebrates bold, vibrant flavors and honors the Mexican tradition of shared meals. Chef Michael Siegel’s “comida con corazón” philosophy infuses every dish, creating a sensory feast designed to captivate diners.
Since opening in 2016, Playa has become a North Bay favorite, earning accolades such as a three-star review from the San Francisco Chronicle and recognition on the Michelin Guide’s Bib Gourmand list in 2024. Backed by the culinary pedigree of Real Restaurants (Buckeye Roadhouse, Bar Bocce, Bungalow 44), Playa has cemented its reputation as one of Marin's standout dining destinations.
The menu is divided into four sections: Antojitos (snacks), Mariscos (seafood), Platos Fuertes (main dishes), and Masa (corn-based dishes).
Highlights include spicy Albondigas with pork and beef meatballs with chipotle-tomato salsa; vegetarian Chile Relleno with ancho chile, potato, plantain, tofu “chorizo” with black beans and a cashew crema; and the indulgent Molcajete—a sizzling volcanic rock bowl of skirt steak, prawns and house made chorizo topped with panela cheese, nopales and roasted tomato chipotle salsa. A handful of refreshing Mariscos range from ceviche and Hamachi crudo to ahi tostadas and jumbo shrimp with grilled jalapenos and lime butter.
An expanded Masa section showcases Chef Siegel’s in-house tortillas, made from blue and yellow corn masa. Standouts include the Tlacoyo, stuffed with delicata squash and salsa, and the Suadero, a crispy jalapeño tortilla filled with brisket, salsa de chilaca peppers, purple daikon and avocado. These south-of-the-border delights bring a fresh dimension to Playa’s culinary repertoire.
Complementing the new menu is a vibrant cocktail program by General Manager and Cocktail Wizard Manfred Mendez.
Signature drinks include the Santa Madre with mezcal and pineapple syrup, the Tepache Cocktail featuring house-made tepache, and the Smokin’ Mirror, a Mexican twist on a Manhattan.
Classic margaritas, Palomas, and Chihuahuan Sotol-inspired cocktails round out the offerings. Tasty non-alcoholic beverages are also available.
Playa also offers one of the happiest happy hours in town every Tuesday - Thursday (4pm - 6pm) at the bar.
Drink Specials include:
$10 House Margaritas
$11 Signature Cocktails
$7 Draft Beers
$10 Wines by the Glass
And don't forget about their famous Taco Tuesday. Enjoy classic tacos - Al Pastor, Carnitas, Steak or Chicken, served on hand-made tortillas for $5. And sip on $5 Tecates, $10 Playa Margaritas, and $7 shots of Espolon Tequila blanco all night long!
Playa’s refreshed menu not only delivers satisfying Mexican flavors but also encourages diners to discover new ingredients and broaden their palates. Located at 41 Throckmorton Avenue in downtown Mill Valley, Playa serves lunch, dinner, cocktails, and weekend brunch. For more details, visit www.playamv.com or call (415) 384-8871.
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Check out more Playa photos by Matt Spinetta (Prismic Photography)
