Marin Travel Guide: Best Outdoor Dining in Marin
Hello August! It’s the time of year in Marin where we welcome our extended summer and enjoy wonderful weather and lots of time outdoors for at least the next 3 months. Especially at this time of the year, we think there is nothing better than following an outdoor outing in Marin with an al fresco meal. You can check out the Best Things To Do Outdoors in Marin by clicking on that link; in this post, let’s cover the Best Places to Eat Outdoors in Marin. Want to extend your perfect day? Book a guestroom at one of our Marin Boutique Hotels!
The Best Outdoor Dining In Marin
We’re not going solely with our own preferences to create this list — we’re taking the list directly from our favorite local media Marin Magazine’s Best of 2025. Have a look at the full list here.
We love all of these places. The spots that really deliver and are closest to our hotels are:
Outdoor Dining near Mill Valley Inn
Piazza D’Angelo is our sister restaurant, and a bustling local’s favorite many years running. Located in downtown Mill Valley a a few blocks from Mil Valley Inn. Nice little perk: our hotel guests receive a complimentary glass of prosecco when they show their room key!
Playa is at this point the iconic favorite Mexican restaurant in Mill Valley and maybe even all of Marin. Enjoy your easy few block stroll from Mill Valley Inn.
Outdoor Dining near Waters Edge Hotel
Salt & Pepper is charming, the service is friendly, and you will find something delicious from breakfast through dinner (we’re partial to the crab stack). Located approximately 10 steps from Waters Edge Hotel.
Sam’s Anchor Cafe is home to maybe the best outdoor deck in the bay area. Go full marine vibes at this bayside spot and order the lobster roll. Located directly next door to Waters Edge Hotel
Outdoor Dining Near Acqua Hotel
The Junction has nailed the combination of chill and fun vibe, excellent food, beverages galore, and a huge outdoor space with live music. Located 5 minutes’ drive from Acqua Hotel.
Hook Fish Co is perfectly Marin: super casual with a beer garden, live music, and lots of outdoor seating. We can personally vouch for the Poke Burrito and the Fish + Chips! Located 5 minutes’ drive from Acqua Hotel.
