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City dining guide

Best restaurants in Novato

2 guide-listed restaurants — Michelin, Bib Gourmand, Black Pearl, Must-Eat List, World's 50 Best and more. Reference quality signals; never ranked by commission, no in-app checkout.

Bib Gourmand 1

Village Sake

Bib Gourmand$$Japanese

Set along a bustling stretch, Village Sake is a mighty hot and mod izakaya delivering authentic goods in the heart of quaint Fairfax. All the classic small plates are in full force here: crisp and creamy takoyaki (octopus croquettes), okonomiyaki, tataki (made with silky smoked hamachi) and coconut mochi cake complete with cardamom gelato. If you must have sushi, there’s a small selection of excellent nigiri, too—make sure to sample the shima aji and kinmedai. The look of the room suggests Tokyo, with closely spaced tables, an array of wood accents (including a live-edge wood counter) as well

TripAdvisor review sample · 4.7/5 · 50 reviews

Village Sake in San Anselmo offers highly rated Japanese cuisine, praised for creative sushi and fresh ingredients. Guests frequently commend the food quality, attentive service, and cozy atmosphere, considering it good value. However, some reviews note inconsistent meal pacing, small portions, and high costs. The lack of a reservation system often requires long waits, occasionally leading to dissatisfaction. While most experiences are positive, occasional service lapses and noise levels are mentioned. It suits diners seeking high-quality Japanese fare who can tolerate waiting times.

Ideal for diners willing to queue early for high-quality creative Japanese cuisine.

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Other guide picks 1

Masa's Sushi

$$Japanese, Sushi

Respected veteran Chef Takatoshi Toshi crafts hearty and affordable sushi for a local crowd. Don’t be surprised to see him behind the counter here, breaking down a whole salmon while making small talk with his neighbors. The space is simple, understated and quiet, which seems to match its quaint downtown location, set amid boutiques and restaurants. Lunch combinations are an excellent deal, offering chirashi bowls as well as sushi and nigiri with miso soup. Come dinner, the affordable omakase selection unveils nigiri, salmon and tuna tastings. Bigger platters might arrive as lovely amalgamatio

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