The ultimate stealth dining paradise is found inside the funky Casino bar, where chef Mark Malicki produces ever-changing menus exactly based on what he can source most freshly that day. Working on a hamburger griddle with just a dishwasher and a server to support him, Malicki consistently turns out dishes that amaze and delight; follow him on Facebook to discover each day's menu. When the math is right, ordering Malicki's entire menu makes a sumptuous dinner for two for just under $100. BYOB or purchase a bottle of local Balleto Pinot Noir from the barkeep for less than the grocery store.

One of the best restaurants in Sonoma County, the Michelin-starred Terrapin Creek is tucked away in a small strip mall, content to quietly produce excellent dishes in an informal setting. Look for seafood as well as housemade pastas, Japanese-inflected main courses, and a gorgeous reimagining of European traditions. 

Located down by the working boats of Bodega Bay, Spud Point is famous for its chowder but also rightfully known for fresh crab cooked right on the spot. Plan to sit outside in the chill at picnic tables and gorge when the Dungeness is in season. BYOB.

Though Tomales Bakery is sorely missed, the team behind the local favorite reopened under a new banner and are baking and cooking better than ever. Since its opening in February 2020 this powerhouse has gained much-deserved clout for its pizza, bread, and desserts.

Swing by this reimagined seafood shack with resort cabins, a separate oyster bar, seating out over Tomales Bay, and an adorably dilapidated vibe (though just renovated in February 2022). With any luck this historic restaurant should be around for a long time, dishing up views and seafood until the cows come home.

Tony's has enjoyed its prime spot over Tomales Bay since 1948. Purchased by the Hog Island Oyster Farm folks in 2017, Tony's old-school charm is now matched by the freshness of its fare. And: the view.

An oyster depot, a breakfast joint, and a white-cloth bistro all in two adjacent store fronts. Expect berries in season, an excellent wine list daily, and line-caught sustainably harvested seafood so fresh it might flop off the plate. Always plan to have oysters. And dessert. And more wine.

This longtime Pt. Reyes Station stalwart is a reliable place to get breakfast, a burger, and a feta cheese-dressed salad with garlicky carrots and a side of eccentric popovers. The well-established outdoor garden is a splendor in good weather and the bar a true refuge in poor. Open all day, with live music on the weekends.

Casual and healthy with an emphasis on vegetables, seafood, and sustainably raised meats, this is pretty much the only eatery in town, so thank goodness it's really just a fine place to eat. Set adjacent to the Bolinas Museum — a hidden treasure with a great exhibition roster and a shabby chic vibe that Martha would envy — this cheerful spot is perfect for a simple lunch or dinner and a lazy brunch.

Breakers is all about breakfast and lunch with an emphasis on Mexican-style entrees that involve corn-wrapped fish with cheese. Ordering at the counter offers an informal experience. The deck makes it an acceptable alternative to the Parkside, though it keeps less regular winter hours.

It should come as no surprise that California Kahve founder Molly Welton is still making money moves. Her vintage coffee caravan is a delight — when it was parked at its original home of Ocean Beach and at its new home off of Highway 1 — doling out New Zealand-inspired desserts and custom lattes. Load up for that rare sunny day at Stinson Beach.