Best Restaurants in Mill Valley, CA

Mill Valley, California, tucked into the redwood groves at the base of Mount Tamalpais, offers more than just beautiful scenery—it’s a culinary haven. This inviting town seamlessly blends laid-back vibes with an upscale flair, reflected in its diverse and vibrant food scene.

Whether you're a foodie in search of your next favorite meal or a local craving comfort and creativity, Mill Valley’s restaurants are ready to deliver. Here’s a curated guide to some of the best spots in town, all of which are currently open and thriving.

A Mill Valley classic since 1937, Buckeye Roadhouse is known for its rustic charm and hearty, satisfying cuisine. The iconic neon sign leads you into a warm, wood-paneled dining room with a roaring fireplace and lodge-like ambiance. Signature dishes include the chili-lime brick chicken, slow-cooked baby back ribs, and the smoked trout Caesar salad. The cocktail list is just as memorable—perfect for a cozy evening out.

Set along the romantic El Paseo lane, Paseo Bistro brings French-inflected California cuisine to the heart of Mill Valley. Chef Sylvain Montassier delivers elegant plates like tuna tartare with chicharron and squid ink linguine with fresh local crab. The warm, ambient space and consistently excellent service make it ideal for both date nights and celebratory dinners.

Bungalow 44 exudes energy and modern sophistication. The bar buzzes with locals sipping seasonal cocktails, and the kitchen serves up elevated comfort food like the kickin’ fried chicken, truffle fries, and grilled steak with chimichurri. Their happy hour—complete with $1 oysters—is a major draw, and the heated outdoor patio offers year-round enjoyment.

Perched above a babbling creek in the Mill Valley Lumber Yard, Watershed offers a uniquely Northern Californian dining experience. With a focus on locally sourced, farm-to-table ingredients, the menu shifts with the seasons. Expect dishes like wood-fired flatbreads, roasted local fish, and inventive vegetable plates. The atmosphere—equal parts rustic and modern—is perfect for a relaxing brunch or a thoughtful dinner.

Vibrant, colorful, and full of flavor, Playa Mill Valley is the go-to destination for modern Mexican cuisine. Highlights include the Baja fish tacos, mole negro enchiladas, and their extensive tequila and mezcal selections. The vibrant decor, sunny patio, and consistently upbeat service make this spot popular with both locals and visitors alike.

A fresh and modern take on Chinese-American cuisine, Mamahuhu delivers clean flavors, quality ingredients, and nostalgic dishes. Favorites include the sweet and sour chicken, tomato garlic chow mein, and Szechuan eggplant. With vegetarian and gluten-free options, this is a reliable pick for diverse palates and dietary needs.

The Junction is more than just a beer garden—it’s a social hub. With 30 rotating taps, a curated canned beer selection, and wood-fired pizza from Pizzahacker, this outdoor space is perfect for relaxed evenings or weekend gatherings. String lights, picnic tables, and the scent of pizza baking make it a cozy, family-friendly hangout.

Seafood lovers rejoice—Hook Fish Co. delivers some of the freshest seafood in the Bay Area in a laid-back, surf-inspired setting. The menu features poke burritos, grilled fish tacos, and ceviche, all responsibly sourced. It’s a great stop after a beach day or hike up Mt. Tam.

For a standout breakfast or brunch, Kitchen Sunnyside is a must. This cheerful eatery serves up comfort classics with a twist: think Dungeness crab hash, corned beef Benedict, and cornflake-crusted French toast. The sunny outdoor patio and friendly service make it a favorite morning stop.

A long-time staple in the area, Piatti serves classic Italian fare with elegance and warmth. Since opening in 1987, it’s built a loyal following for its wood-fired pizzas, house-made pastas, and signature seafood dishes. The open kitchen and relaxed ambiance make it a solid choice for everything from date night to family meals.

If you’re craving something sweet or want to start your morning with a perfect pastry, Madrona Bakery is the place to go. With a wood-fired oven and a commitment to high-quality ingredients, the bakery’s kouign amann, lemon meringue croissants, and artisan loaves are top-tier. Their outdoor seating and rich coffee offerings round out the experience.

Mill Valley’s culinary scene is continuing to grow. Highly anticipated additions to Strawberry Village include:

• Tartine Bakery – The beloved San Francisco bakery is bringing its world-renowned sourdough, croissants, and morning buns to Mill Valley in a new café setting.
  
  
• Cholita Linda – Known for its Latin street food and vibrant atmosphere, Cholita Linda will serve Baja-style fish tacos, plantain plates, and house-made aguas frescas in a lively, colorful space.

Both openings reflect Mill Valley’s ongoing evolution as a dining destination and promise to be welcome additions to the local food landscape.

Mill Valley’s restaurant scene is a reflection of the town itself—creative, inviting, and community-driven. From elegant bistros to rustic beer gardens, each establishment brings something unique to the table. Whether you’re dining with family, meeting friends for a drink, or simply enjoying a solo meal with a view of the redwoods, you’ll find something special here.

If you’ve fallen in love with Mill Valley’s charm, natural beauty, and top-tier lifestyle—including its incredible dining scene—it might be time to call this special town home.

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