How can a town with so many dining options feel so utterly starved for truly memorable meals? We’ve scoured Novato’s streets to find the rare gems that actually deliver.
Crumbl – Novato
$$ | (707) 390-8797 | WEBSITE
The concept at Crumbl is nothing revolutionary: you pick your cookie flavors. But the execution here is what makes this place stand out – the cookies themselves taste delicious and melt in your mouth, and actually feel like someone put some care into baking them. There are also plenty of options, and the menu changes often so you’re not stuck eating the same chocolate chip-sugar cookie combo over and over again.
Flour Chylde Bakery
$ | (415) 893-7700 | WEBSITE
Put anything gluten-free on a plate and we’re going to be able to pretend it’s a regular treat. The Torte Mini Bites might not be decadent desserts, but we do know that Flour Chylde never makes us feel deprived after eating them. And if you’re really aiming for indulgence? Skip the lunch items, order the pumpkin cake with buttercream frosting, and pair it with a coffee. And go forth towards the rest of your day knowing you’ve already made satisfying choices.
China House
$ | (415) 897-9630 | WEBSITE
Nothing mindblowing will happen to you or your mouth at China House. But if you’re looking for huge portions of flavorful Chinese food that tastes fresh and satisfying, this is a reliable option.
Mamita Cocina Mexicana
$$ | (415) 883-0901 | WEBSITE
The Oaxacan-inspired Mexican restaurant scene in Novato knows no bounds – it’s even extended into a lovely patio setting. Step into Mamita Cocina Mexicana for dinner and you’ll feel like you’ve escaped to a land of amazing flavors, birria tacos, and fresh, delectable dishes. The staff working here also tend to be quite friendly and attentive – but don’t get swept up and expect anything less than exceptional service. Take it from us, the experience becomes memorable fast.
Peet’s Coffee
$ | (415) 475-4121 | WEBSITE
If you’re pretty sure you want a reliable coffee break, but you want a few solid options to pick from, Peet’s Coffee is where you go. This is really just a nice, convenient spot that makes a few different drinks and even has some pastries and sandwiches. Drinks and food can get a little pricey here, but that’s the price you pay for knowing exactly how your vanilla latte will taste. Get a latte or a breakfast sandwich or a bunch of pastries.
Also, if you want to sit outside, there’s a little outdoor seating area.
Dave’s Hot Chicken
$ | (415) 878-1105 | WEBSITE
A name that’s fun to say, plus fiery hot chicken. Dave’s Hot Chicken has a limited menu of chicken sandwiches and tenders, all of which are excellent. They also have a range of spice levels to suit all tastes, from mild to not-for-the-faint-of-heart options.
Boca Pizzeria
$$ | (415) 883-2302 | WEBSITE
Unless you go crazy with the truffle cream, Italian food is always going to be pretty good for you. Fresh pasta, cheese, maybe some sausage and marinara sauce – there isn’t anything too wrong about that. And if you’re trying to go even heartier, Boca Pizzeria lets you sub out your gnocchi for rigatoni. Or maybe you want a cheese pizza. Your friends might make fun of you, but these people will make you one. Prices here are also pretty reasonable and they even have ravioli, chicken, and salad.
The chicken is not raw.
Panda Express
$ | (415) 892-2163 | WEBSITE
Let’s be honest: fast-food Chinese sounds like a compromise. A real one. So imagine our surprise when Panda Express turned out to be not just decent, but genuinely enjoyable. The menu mixes things like Chile Fried Shrimp and fresh salads – not only does this avoid the usual greasy pitfalls, but it also means you’ll leave feeling surprisingly good about your meal.
Sushi Tri
$$ | (415) 382-9988 | WEBSITE
Sushi Tri was one of the first spots to realize that quality sushi would thrive in Novato, and they’ve certainly enjoyed the benefits of being an early favorite. While they’ve maintained their original location, that hasn’t prevented them from drawing consistent crowds of eager diners. The outstanding dishes – from the dragon roll and spicy tuna tacos to the 49’er and Alaska rolls – are absolutely worth any brief wait you might encounter.
Mountain Mike’s Pizza
$$ | (415) 898-8800 | WEBSITE
Another solid pizza joint, more sports fans frequenting it. This one has particularly good wings and pizza. Just know that you might have to navigate a little chaos to enjoy them. Again, they’re worth it.
The Village Italian Restaurant
$$ | (415) 898-2234 | WEBSITE
Whether you’re craving a classic pizza, a hearty pasta dish, or just some addictive garlic bread, The Village Italian Restaurant has you covered. We appreciate the fact that in a world where you could easily pay $25 for a basic pasta without a second thought, the prices here remain reasonable for the quality, and the service is attentive – so you can enjoy your linguine al pesto with sausage, savor your potato-skin-style pizza appetizer, and be on your way before you can say “buon appetito.”
Marin Coffee Roasters
$ | (415) 884-9400 | WEBSITE
Marin Coffee Roasters is a local coffee spot that specializes in drinks. That’s sort of their thing, and they’ll serve them to you one of two ways (although plain is not an option). You can get them hot or iced or on the patio with a few pastry sides. Throw some coffee cake and a spinach bacon frittata in with your tuxedo latte, and that sounds like a cozy-enough breakfast. Although if it sounds too cozy, you can always add a peach green tea lemonade.
Trailhead
$ | (415) 493-6902 | WEBSITE
The simplest way to describe Trailhead would be to call it a neighborhood Chipotle for breakfast and burgers. But that comparison would sell this place short – for a casual spot, the food here is genuinely excellent. You choose a breakfast burrito, a bacon brie hamburger, or homemade chips with pickles, and you enjoy it with your choice of sides, toppings, and sauces, many of which feel freshly made.
The patio is clean and dog-friendly, with table ordering and a relaxed vibe that makes it perfect for families with children enjoying the outdoor play area. The staff is friendly and happy to provide recommendations, creating a nice and local feeling that keeps customers coming back for the great take-out service and comfortable atmosphere.
Jack In The Box
$ | (415) 878-0465 | WEBSITE
If the thought of grabbing a meal from a place that serves curly fries and tacos seriously puts you off, maybe don’t swing by or get delivery from Jack in the Box. Otherwise, if you’re craving something quick and tasty, or for some reason enjoy eating as though you are, Jack in the Box is here for your seriously satisfying fast-food needs.