Beyond the occasional tourist trap, there’s no excuse for settling for mediocre meals in Sausalito. This bayside gem deserves better—and so do you. When seeking the perfect blend of waterfront views, inventive cuisine, and genuine local flavor, remember these essentials: fresh seafood, creative cocktails, and a relaxed, welcoming vibe. For the definitive Sausalito dining experience, start with these thirteen standout spots.
Lighthouse Café
$ | (415) 331-3034 | WEBSITE
This café is nestled in the charming town of Sausalito, so it’s not surprising that Lighthouse Café offers a great breakfast experience. But Lighthouse Café’s omelets are also delicious, like hearty ham and cheese omelets or the andouille scramble with fresh ingredients. There are plenty of seats at the counter for you to enjoy some quality time with both, and the friendly staff is always happy to chat about preparation and the ideal pairings for each dish.
Scoma’s of Sausalito
$$$ | (415) 332-9551 | WEBSITE
The idea of “bayfront dining” might conjure up a nightmare of overpriced seafood and indifferent service with a view. But thankfully, that’s not what’s happening at Scoma’s of Sausalito. This waterfront institution uses fresh ingredients to make dishes like crab louie, shrimp pasta, and sesame ahi tuna. It’s not just another tourist trap, but the stunning views and attentive staff make it a great option for your special occasion.
The waitress Maria is particularly friendly and accommodating, and the perfectly cooked asparagus and halibut are standout items. With tables by the window offering incredible bay views, the relaxed atmosphere and consistent quality make every meal memorable.
The Bump Bar by California Caviar Company
$$$$ | (415) 332-0822 | WEBSITE
We’ve always been big fans of California Caviar Company, a somewhat upscale caviar purveyor in Sausalito. But right inside is The Bump Bar, a more intimate spot from the same owners. Both are excellent choices, though the bar is easier to get into and has a cozy atmosphere where you can sit and enjoy the essentials.
Fish.
$$ | (415) 331-3474 | WEBSITE
Two conflicting ideas can exist at the same time: you might want to enjoy a peaceful meal, but also be surrounded by the lively energy of a popular spot. And a solo lunch at the counter at Fish in Sausalito is the perfect way to soak up some communal atmosphere. It’s incredibly popular, and always buzzing with everyone from couples and families, to people eating at the patio and the staff serving them.
And the impressive space—decorated with simple nautical touches and offering those stunning bay views—roughly the size of a large ferry but with way better seafood. Particularly the salmon sandwich. It can only be described as “generous”, as it’s piled high with fresh fish, comes with a crisp side salad, and delivers that perfect, satisfying crunch. Resist the urge to just order another one immediately after finishing.
Real Napa Tasting Room
$ | (415) 332-0105 | WEBSITE
The Real Napa Tasting Room is like stepping into a postcard of California wine country. The setting is almost aggressively cozy, which makes sense given its prime Sausalito waterfront location. As with most tasting rooms, you order at the bar counter to get your wine and cheese, but we’re going to suggest you just don’t sit anywhere but outside. The wines, while not from a single estate, are well selected and paired with simple, tasty accompaniments.
Come here for the view, raise a glass to the stunning bay scenery, and try to find out if your server knows more about Napa than most locals.
Sausalito Gelato and Chocolate
$ | (415) 729-9557 | WEBSITE
Did you just get a parking ticket and currently need a place to treat the kids to something sweet while you sip a comforting hot chocolate? Sausalito Gelato and Chocolate has you covered. The environment is charming, and the treats are simple and affordable—most gelato scoops cost around $4, and adding a shortbread cookie won’t be more than a couple extra dollars. So after dealing with the hassle of downtown parking, this should be your next move.
Revelry Cakes
Revelry Cakes is a cozy, unassuming bakery in Sausalito, and it’s the kind of local gem you imagine Bay Area residents cherishing for special occasions. Stop by the counter for the Meyer lemon cake with lemon curd and raspberry compote or the rich chocolate cake, along with a fresh cup of coffee. A lot of the cakes come in various sizes, which is perfect if you don’t need a whole tier. Just don’t expect them to take on a custom birthday cake order at the last minute.
Anchorage 5
$$ | (415) 331-8329 | WEBSITE
Open for years in Sausalito, Anchorage 5 is meant to resemble a classic old-fashioned diner, which means you can come here and channel cozy mornings or, you know, a relaxed lunch by the water. And while the main dining room has a nautical feel and soft classical music, the dog-friendly patio is where you want to be to have the fantastic Butterfly Benedict with nicely browned chicken Apple sausage.
You can definitely have a hearty breakfast here, but this place is also known for making great burgers and fries. Proceed accordingly.
Copita Tequileria y Comida
$$ | (415) 331-7400 | WEBSITE
Copita Tequileria y Comida feels tailor-made for solo diners craving a tequila-infused escape. There’s plenty of bar seating and window-side tables to tuck yourself into with a plate of shrimp enchiladas or birria tacos. Plus, the part counter-service, part-virtual tab set-up is great when you want to savor uninterrupted while scrolling through your phone, but are in dire need of another margarita. Order a mini tequila flight of “whatever’s fresh” via QR code from your table, and sip away.
Davey Jones Deli
$ | (415) 331-2282 | WEBSITE
The only downside to Davey Jones Deli in Sausalito is that you might pay a bit more than expected, especially when adding extra protein. But when you’re craving a quality sandwich, it’s easy to walk right in and order at the counter. Try any (or all) of their fantastic customizable options, particularly the turkey with the works or the highly recommended Vulcan sandwich.
The ‘rando sando’ normally only comes with the sandwich artists’ creative control, but they’ll customize it to your liking if you ask, which you absolutely should. Plus, when you sit at one of their simple wooden tables, you can watch the friendly staff work efficiently, and you can enjoy your fresh ingredients and pretend that someday you’ll try making sandwiches even half as good.
Ditas
$$ | (628) 261-9267 | WEBSITE
Just because a restaurant has a view doesn’t automatically make it romantic, and claiming so often feels forced. But Dita’s might actually deliver. It’s perched in Sausalito with that famous Bay vista, and looks like your typical waterfront spot with its deck and heaters. It also happens to serve excellent food. The staff, while occasionally a bit clumsy, are genuinely friendly and knowledgeable, especially about wine pairings, and will make you feel welcome even on a first visit.
On any evening, you’ll find couples celebrating anniversaries and friends enjoying a relaxed meal—and you’ll quickly see why this view is their backdrop. Grab a seat on the deck, order the crab benedict or the risotto, and Dita’s will give you that special occasion feel, every time.
Angelino Restaurant
$$ | (415) 331-5225 | WEBSITE
If you’re looking for a casual Italian spot, Angelino Restaurant is the complete opposite. There’s nothing ordinary about this family-owned gem in downtown Sausalito, but there’s a welcoming warmth that’s comforting when you’re enjoying a cozy dinner or celebrating a special occasion. The view of San Francisco from the window booths is excellent, and so are the fresh, flavorful dishes—the arancini appetizer and shrimp dish are some of our favorites in the Bay Area.
Plus, the reasonably-priced-when-sharing portions are perfect for two people.
Joinery
$$ | (415) 766-8999 | WEBSITE
Head to Joinery in Sausalito to hang out in a lively outdoor space that has stunning water views and dock seating. This place even has artfully placed bikes leaning nearby, just to remind you that they cater to explorers. It’s the kind of enjoyable spot where, even if you had every intention of grabbing just a quick falafel sandwich to go, you end up staying the whole afternoon. We’re sure your kids will be fine.