Epicurious eats in Mill Valley, California
# **A Foodie’s Guide to Mill Valley: 10 Must-Try Dining Experiences**
Nestled at the foot of Mount Tamalpais, Mill Valley is a charming Northern California town that blends small-town charm with world-class culinary offerings. From laid-back beer gardens to artisanal bakeries and globally inspired eateries, this Marin County gem has something for every palate. Whether you're a local or just passing through, here’s your ultimate guide to the best dining experiences in Mill Valley—and exactly what to order at each spot.
---
## **1. The Junction Beer Garden**
? *226 CA-1, Mill Valley, CA 94941*
? [Menu](https://zmenu.com/the-junction-mill-valley)
**The Vibe:** A lively, dog-friendly beer garden with communal tables, string lights, and a rotating selection of craft brews. Perfect for post-hike refueling or a casual night out.
**What to Order:**
- **The Junction Burger** – A juicy, no-frills smash burger with American cheese, pickles, and secret sauce on a toasted bun.
- **Beer-Battered Fish & Chips** – Crispy, golden cod with house-made tartar sauce and thick-cut fries.
- **Loaded Nachos** – A mountain of chips topped with melted cheese, black beans, jalapeños, and your choice of protein.
**Pro Tip:** Pair your meal with a local IPA—they often feature brews from nearby Marin breweries.
---
## **2. Coho**
? *106 Throckmorton Ave, Mill Valley, CA 94941*
? [Menu](https://zmenu.com/coho-mill-valley)
**The Vibe:** A cozy, upscale seafood spot with a focus on sustainable sourcing and creative coastal cuisine.
**What to Order:**
- **Pan-Seared Scallops** – Perfectly caramelized scallops served with seasonal vegetables and a citrus beurre blanc.
- **Dungeness Crab Roll** – A buttery, toasted roll stuffed with fresh crab and a light lemon aioli.
- **Coho Chowder** – A creamy, smoky chowder packed with clams, potatoes, and bacon.
**Pro Tip:** Grab a seat on the heated patio for prime people-watching on Throckmorton Ave.
---
## **3. Lucinda’s Take Out**
? *930 Redwood Highway Frontage Rd, Mill Valley, CA 94941*
? [Menu](https://zmenu.com/lucindas-mexican-food-to-go-mill-valley)
**The Vibe:** A no-frills, roadside Mexican joint serving hearty burritos, tacos, and combo plates. Cash-only and worth every penny.
**What to Order:**
- **Carne Asada Burrito** – Stuffed with tender grilled steak, rice, beans, cheese, and fresh salsa.
- **Carnitas Tacos** – Double corn tortillas piled with juicy, slow-cooked pork, onions, and cilantro.
- **Chile Verde Plate** – Tender pork simmered in green sauce with rice, beans, and warm tortillas.
**Pro Tip:** Don’t skip the house-made horchata—it’s sweet, cinnamony, and refreshing.
---
## **4. Le Marais Bakery**
? *250 E Blithedale Ave, Mill Valley, CA 94941*
? [Menu](https://zmenu.com/le-marais-bakery-mill-valley)
**The Vibe:** A Parisian-inspired bakery with rustic charm, offering flaky pastries, artisan bread, and strong coffee.
**What to Order:**
- **Almond Croissant** – Buttery, crisp, and filled with almond cream.
- **Quiche Lorraine** – A rich, custardy quiche with bacon and Gruyère cheese.
- **Avocado Tartine** – Thick sourdough toast topped with smashed avocado, radishes, and sea salt.
**Pro Tip:** Arrive early—the best pastries sell out by mid-morning.
---
## **5. Hook Fish Co. at Proof Lab Beer Garden**
? *254 Shoreline Hwy, Mill Valley, CA 94941*
? [Menu](https://zmenu.com/hook-fish-mill-valley-2)
**The Vibe:** A surf-shack-style seafood stand with picnic tables, cold beers, and ultra-fresh, sustainable seafood.
**What to Order:**
- **Fish Tacos** – Beer-battered cod with cabbage slaw, crema, and house-made salsa.
- **Poke Bowl** – Ahi tuna tossed in sesame soy dressing over rice with avocado and seaweed.
- **Clam Chowder** – A lighter, broth-based version with plenty of clams and potatoes.
**Pro Tip:** Order at the window, grab a beer from Proof Lab, and enjoy the outdoor seating.
---
## **6. Sol Food Mill Valley**
? *401 Miller Ave, Mill Valley, CA 94941*
? [Menu](https://zmenu.com/sol-food-mill-valley)
**The Vibe:** A vibrant Puerto Rican eatery with bold flavors, tropical colors, and a cult following.
**What to Order:**
- **Pollo al Horno** – Roasted chicken with garlic, lime, and fried plantains.
- **Bistec Encebollado** – Marinated steak with onions, rice, and beans.
- **Tostones** – Crispy fried green plantains with garlic dipping sauce.
**Pro Tip:** The green sauce (ají verde) is legendary—ask for extra!
---
## **7. Tam Junction PizzaHacker/BagelMacher**
? *226 Shoreline Hwy, Mill Valley, CA 94941*
? [Menu](https://zmenu.com/pizza-hacker-mill-valley-2)
**The Vibe:** A quirky hybrid spot serving Detroit-style pizza and NYC-style bagels.
**What to Order:**
- **Detroit Red Top Pizza** – Thick, crispy crust with pepperoni, mozzarella, and tomato sauce.
- **Everything Bagel with Lox** – Freshly baked bagel with cream cheese, capers, and smoked salmon.
- **Garlic Knots** – Buttery, garlicky, and impossible to resist.
**Pro Tip:** Check their Instagram for daily specials—they often experiment with fun toppings.
---
## **8. Mamahuhu**
? *173 Throckmorton Ave, Mill Valley, CA 94941*
? [Menu](https://zmenu.com/mamahuhu-mill-valley)
**The Vibe:** A modern, fast-casual Chinese-American spot from a Michelin-starred chef.
**What to Order:**
- **General Tso’s Chicken** – Crispy, sweet, and spicy with a perfect glaze.
- **Dan Dan Noodles** – Spicy peanut noodles with ground pork and chili oil.
- **Pork & Chive Dumplings** – Pan-fried to perfection with a tangy dipping sauce.
**Pro Tip:** The lunch combo (entrée + rice + side) is a great deal.
---
## **9. Phyllis’ Giant Burgers**
? *8 E Blithedale Ave, Mill Valley, CA 94941*
? [Menu](https://zmenu.com/phyllis-giant-burgers-mill-valley)
**The Vibe:** A classic old-school burger joint with giant, no-nonsense burgers and milkshakes.
**What to Order:**
- **Philly Cheesesteak Burger** – A juicy beef patty topped with grilled onions, peppers, and melted cheese.
- **Bacon Avocado Burger** – A thick patty with crispy bacon, fresh avocado, and mayo.
- **Oreo Milkshake** – Thick, creamy, and loaded with cookie chunks.
**Pro Tip:** Cash only—hit the ATM before you go.
---
## **10. New York Bagels**
? *800 Redwood Hwy Frontage Rd Ste 308, Mill Valley, CA 94941*
? [Menu](https://zmenu.com/new-york-bagels-mill-valley)
**The Vibe:** A no-frills bagel shop serving authentic NYC-style boiled bagels.
**What to Order:**
- **Everything Bagel with Scallion Cream Cheese** – A classic done right.
- **Lox & Schmear** – Smoked salmon, capers, red onion, and cream cheese on a sesame bagel.
- **Breakfast Sandwich** – Egg, cheese, and bacon on a toasted bagel.
**Pro Tip:** They sell out early, so go before 10 AM for the best selection.
---
### **Final Thoughts**
Mill Valley’s food scene is as diverse as its landscapes—whether you’re craving a gourmet seafood dinner, a quick taco, or a perfect bagel, this town delivers. So grab a fork (or just your hands) and dig in!
**Which spot will you try first?** ?
Nestled at the foot of Mount Tamalpais, Mill Valley is a charming Northern California town that blends small-town charm with world-class culinary offerings. From laid-back beer gardens to artisanal bakeries and globally inspired eateries, this Marin County gem has something for every palate. Whether you're a local or just passing through, here’s your ultimate guide to the best dining experiences in Mill Valley—and exactly what to order at each spot.
---
## **1. The Junction Beer Garden**
? *226 CA-1, Mill Valley, CA 94941*
? [Menu](https://zmenu.com/the-junction-mill-valley)
**The Vibe:** A lively, dog-friendly beer garden with communal tables, string lights, and a rotating selection of craft brews. Perfect for post-hike refueling or a casual night out.
**What to Order:**
- **The Junction Burger** – A juicy, no-frills smash burger with American cheese, pickles, and secret sauce on a toasted bun.
- **Beer-Battered Fish & Chips** – Crispy, golden cod with house-made tartar sauce and thick-cut fries.
- **Loaded Nachos** – A mountain of chips topped with melted cheese, black beans, jalapeños, and your choice of protein.
**Pro Tip:** Pair your meal with a local IPA—they often feature brews from nearby Marin breweries.
---
## **2. Coho**
? *106 Throckmorton Ave, Mill Valley, CA 94941*
? [Menu](https://zmenu.com/coho-mill-valley)
**The Vibe:** A cozy, upscale seafood spot with a focus on sustainable sourcing and creative coastal cuisine.
**What to Order:**
- **Pan-Seared Scallops** – Perfectly caramelized scallops served with seasonal vegetables and a citrus beurre blanc.
- **Dungeness Crab Roll** – A buttery, toasted roll stuffed with fresh crab and a light lemon aioli.
- **Coho Chowder** – A creamy, smoky chowder packed with clams, potatoes, and bacon.
**Pro Tip:** Grab a seat on the heated patio for prime people-watching on Throckmorton Ave.
---
## **3. Lucinda’s Take Out**
? *930 Redwood Highway Frontage Rd, Mill Valley, CA 94941*
? [Menu](https://zmenu.com/lucindas-mexican-food-to-go-mill-valley)
**The Vibe:** A no-frills, roadside Mexican joint serving hearty burritos, tacos, and combo plates. Cash-only and worth every penny.
**What to Order:**
- **Carne Asada Burrito** – Stuffed with tender grilled steak, rice, beans, cheese, and fresh salsa.
- **Carnitas Tacos** – Double corn tortillas piled with juicy, slow-cooked pork, onions, and cilantro.
- **Chile Verde Plate** – Tender pork simmered in green sauce with rice, beans, and warm tortillas.
**Pro Tip:** Don’t skip the house-made horchata—it’s sweet, cinnamony, and refreshing.
---
## **4. Le Marais Bakery**
? *250 E Blithedale Ave, Mill Valley, CA 94941*
? [Menu](https://zmenu.com/le-marais-bakery-mill-valley)
**The Vibe:** A Parisian-inspired bakery with rustic charm, offering flaky pastries, artisan bread, and strong coffee.
**What to Order:**
- **Almond Croissant** – Buttery, crisp, and filled with almond cream.
- **Quiche Lorraine** – A rich, custardy quiche with bacon and Gruyère cheese.
- **Avocado Tartine** – Thick sourdough toast topped with smashed avocado, radishes, and sea salt.
**Pro Tip:** Arrive early—the best pastries sell out by mid-morning.
---
## **5. Hook Fish Co. at Proof Lab Beer Garden**
? *254 Shoreline Hwy, Mill Valley, CA 94941*
? [Menu](https://zmenu.com/hook-fish-mill-valley-2)
**The Vibe:** A surf-shack-style seafood stand with picnic tables, cold beers, and ultra-fresh, sustainable seafood.
**What to Order:**
- **Fish Tacos** – Beer-battered cod with cabbage slaw, crema, and house-made salsa.
- **Poke Bowl** – Ahi tuna tossed in sesame soy dressing over rice with avocado and seaweed.
- **Clam Chowder** – A lighter, broth-based version with plenty of clams and potatoes.
**Pro Tip:** Order at the window, grab a beer from Proof Lab, and enjoy the outdoor seating.
---
## **6. Sol Food Mill Valley**
? *401 Miller Ave, Mill Valley, CA 94941*
? [Menu](https://zmenu.com/sol-food-mill-valley)
**The Vibe:** A vibrant Puerto Rican eatery with bold flavors, tropical colors, and a cult following.
**What to Order:**
- **Pollo al Horno** – Roasted chicken with garlic, lime, and fried plantains.
- **Bistec Encebollado** – Marinated steak with onions, rice, and beans.
- **Tostones** – Crispy fried green plantains with garlic dipping sauce.
**Pro Tip:** The green sauce (ají verde) is legendary—ask for extra!
---
## **7. Tam Junction PizzaHacker/BagelMacher**
? *226 Shoreline Hwy, Mill Valley, CA 94941*
? [Menu](https://zmenu.com/pizza-hacker-mill-valley-2)
**The Vibe:** A quirky hybrid spot serving Detroit-style pizza and NYC-style bagels.
**What to Order:**
- **Detroit Red Top Pizza** – Thick, crispy crust with pepperoni, mozzarella, and tomato sauce.
- **Everything Bagel with Lox** – Freshly baked bagel with cream cheese, capers, and smoked salmon.
- **Garlic Knots** – Buttery, garlicky, and impossible to resist.
**Pro Tip:** Check their Instagram for daily specials—they often experiment with fun toppings.
---
## **8. Mamahuhu**
? *173 Throckmorton Ave, Mill Valley, CA 94941*
? [Menu](https://zmenu.com/mamahuhu-mill-valley)
**The Vibe:** A modern, fast-casual Chinese-American spot from a Michelin-starred chef.
**What to Order:**
- **General Tso’s Chicken** – Crispy, sweet, and spicy with a perfect glaze.
- **Dan Dan Noodles** – Spicy peanut noodles with ground pork and chili oil.
- **Pork & Chive Dumplings** – Pan-fried to perfection with a tangy dipping sauce.
**Pro Tip:** The lunch combo (entrée + rice + side) is a great deal.
---
## **9. Phyllis’ Giant Burgers**
? *8 E Blithedale Ave, Mill Valley, CA 94941*
? [Menu](https://zmenu.com/phyllis-giant-burgers-mill-valley)
**The Vibe:** A classic old-school burger joint with giant, no-nonsense burgers and milkshakes.
**What to Order:**
- **Philly Cheesesteak Burger** – A juicy beef patty topped with grilled onions, peppers, and melted cheese.
- **Bacon Avocado Burger** – A thick patty with crispy bacon, fresh avocado, and mayo.
- **Oreo Milkshake** – Thick, creamy, and loaded with cookie chunks.
**Pro Tip:** Cash only—hit the ATM before you go.
---
## **10. New York Bagels**
? *800 Redwood Hwy Frontage Rd Ste 308, Mill Valley, CA 94941*
? [Menu](https://zmenu.com/new-york-bagels-mill-valley)
**The Vibe:** A no-frills bagel shop serving authentic NYC-style boiled bagels.
**What to Order:**
- **Everything Bagel with Scallion Cream Cheese** – A classic done right.
- **Lox & Schmear** – Smoked salmon, capers, red onion, and cream cheese on a sesame bagel.
- **Breakfast Sandwich** – Egg, cheese, and bacon on a toasted bagel.
**Pro Tip:** They sell out early, so go before 10 AM for the best selection.
---
### **Final Thoughts**
Mill Valley’s food scene is as diverse as its landscapes—whether you’re craving a gourmet seafood dinner, a quick taco, or a perfect bagel, this town delivers. So grab a fork (or just your hands) and dig in!
**Which spot will you try first?** ?
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