Best Restaurants for St. Patrick’s Day in Marin County: Local Spots to Get Your Irish On

St. Patrick’s Day is coming up, and if you’re in Marin County, you’re in luck! There are plenty of great spots to celebrate this festive holiday with good food and drinks.

From traditional Irish pubs to fancy restaurants with special menus, Marin has something for everyone. You’ll find tasty corned beef and cabbage, green beer, and Irish-inspired dishes at these top eateries. Get ready to put on your green clothes and join the fun at some of the best St. Patrick’s Day spots in Marin County.

Finnegan’s Marin Restaurant & Bar

You’ll feel right at home at Finnegan’s Marin Restaurant & Bar in Novato. This lively spot blends Irish pub vibes with classic American grill fare. It’s the perfect place to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in Marin County.

Step onto the outdoor patio and soak in the energy of downtown Novato. The tree-lined street adds charm to your dining experience. Inside, you’ll find a welcoming atmosphere that’s great for gatherings with friends or family.

The menu at Finnegan’s has something for everyone. Enjoy tasty pub grub while sipping on their carefully chosen craft beers. Their full bar also offers signature cocktails and a nice wine selection. You won’t go thirsty here!

For St. Patrick’s Day, Finnegan’s is sure to be buzzing with festive spirit. Grab a pint, dig into some hearty food, and join the community-oriented nightlife. It’s a fun spot to wear your green and celebrate Irish culture in Marin.

Cuisine Type: American, Bar, Irish
Price Point ($$): $$
Rating: 4.3 (574 reviews)
Location: 877 Grant Ave, Novato, CA 94945
Contact: (415) 899-1516
Website: Visit Website

The Mayflower Pub

Get ready for a St. Patrick’s Day celebration at The Mayflower Pub in San Rafael. This cozy spot brings a taste of Ireland to Marin County. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a traditional Irish pub as soon as you walk through the door.

The Mayflower’s menu features classic pub fare with an Irish twist. Grab a hearty shepherd’s pie or try their fish and chips. Don’t forget to pair your meal with a pint of Guinness or one of their local craft beers on tap.

On St. Patrick’s Day, The Mayflower goes all out. You can expect live Irish music, green beer, and a festive crowd. The friendly staff adds to the warm atmosphere, making you feel right at home.

Remember to arrive early if you want to snag a seat at the bar. The Mayflower fills up fast, especially on holidays. It’s a popular spot for both locals and visitors looking for an authentic Irish pub experience in Marin.

Cuisine Type: British (Pub)
Price Point ($$): $$
Rating: 4.4 (399 reviews)
Location: 1533 4th St, San Rafael, CA 94901
Contact: (415) 456-1011
Website: Visit Website

Barrel House Tavern

You’ll love the mix of history and modern charm at Barrel House Tavern in Sausalito. This spot used to be the old ferry terminal before the Golden Gate Bridge was built. Now it’s a cool restaurant with amazing views of San Francisco Bay.

The food here is all about California flavors. You can try fresh seafood and other dishes made with local ingredients. The menu changes with the seasons, so there’s always something new to taste.

The vibe is relaxed and welcoming. You can come for a nice dinner date or bring a big group of friends. The open floor plan means you get great views no matter where you sit. On St. Patrick’s Day, you might find some Irish-inspired specials to celebrate.

Don’t forget to check out their craft cocktails while you’re there. They go perfectly with the food and the scenery. It’s a great place to spend the holiday, enjoying good food and drinks with a view.

Cuisine Type: American (Pub)
Price Point ($$): $$$
Rating: 4.5 (2400 reviews)
Location: 660 Bridgeway, Sausalito, CA 94965
Contact: (415) 729-9593
Website: Visit Website

The State Room

Looking for a great spot to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in Marin County? The State Room in San Rafael is a top choice. This brewery and restaurant offers a lively atmosphere perfect for the holiday.

You’ll love their wide selection of craft beers brewed on-site. The State Room has options to satisfy any beer lover’s taste. Pair your pint with their tasty pub grub for a full Irish-inspired experience.

On Tuesdays, you can take advantage of their Pint Night specials from 5-9pm. The State Room also offers a happy hour Tuesday through Friday from 3-5pm. It’s a great way to kick off your St. Patrick’s Day festivities early.

For a more laid-back celebration, stop by for their weekend brunch. Served Saturday and Sunday from 11:30am to 3pm, it’s a delicious way to recover from your St. Paddy’s Day fun.

Cuisine Type: American (Pub)
Price Point ($$): $$
Rating: 4.5 (633 reviews)
Location: 1132 4th St, San Rafael, CA 94901
Contact: (415) 295-7929
Website: Visit Website

Joinery

You’ll love the warm, communal vibe at Joinery in Sausalito. This beer hall and rotisserie sits right on the waterfront, giving you stunning views while you dine.

The menu features hearty, seasonal fare that’ll satisfy your hunger. You can’t go wrong with their juicy rotisserie meats paired with one of their exceptional craft beers on tap.

For St. Patrick’s Day, Joinery is a great spot to gather with friends. The casual atmosphere and long communal tables make it perfect for groups. You might even catch some festive Irish-inspired specials on the menu.

Don’t forget to join their Locals Club loyalty program. You’ll earn points on every purchase and get discounts to use on future visits. It’s a great way to save if you plan on becoming a regular.

Cuisine Type: American, Bar, Beer Garden
Price Point ($$): $$
Rating: 4.4 (1200 reviews)
Location: 300 Turney St, Sausalito, CA 94965
Contact: (415) 766-8999
Website: Visit Website

Miracle Mile Cafe

You’ll love the vibrant atmosphere at Miracle Mile Cafe in San Rafael. This Latino-owned gem serves up a delicious mix of American, Peruvian, and Mexican dishes.

Fresh, organic ingredients shine in every meal. The brunch options are especially tasty. You can choose from a wide variety of gluten-free items too.

The friendly staff goes out of their way to accommodate food allergies. Just let them know when you order. You’ll feel right at home in this cozy spot.

Cuisine Type: American, Peruvian, Mexican
Price Point ($$): $$
Rating: 4.7 (553 reviews)
Location: 2130 4th St, San Rafael, CA 94901
Contact: (415) 454-7700
Website: Visit Website

Farm House Local

You’ll love the cozy vibe at Farm House Local in downtown Larkspur. This charming spot serves up delicious farm-to-table breakfast and lunch dishes. The menu changes with the seasons to showcase the best local produce.

Chef David Monson brings his global culinary experience to create unique California-inspired meals. You can taste the quality in every bite. The restaurant uses carefully selected meats, seafood, and artisanal products from the Bay Area.

Don’t miss their freshly baked breads and locally roasted coffee. If you’re in the mood, you can also enjoy small-batch wines and craft beers with your meal. The friendly staff will make you feel right at home.

Farm House Local is perfect for a casual St. Patrick’s Day brunch or lunch. You’ll get to savor Irish-inspired dishes made with the finest local ingredients. It’s a great way to celebrate the holiday while supporting local farmers and producers.

Cuisine Type: Farm-to-Table
Price Point ($$): $$ – $$$
Rating: 4.5 (461 reviews)
Location: 25 Ward St, Larkspur, CA 94939
Contact: (415) 891-8577
Website: Visit Website

Buckeye Roadhouse

You’ll love the charm of Buckeye Roadhouse in Mill Valley. This historic spot has been serving up delicious meals since 1937, blending old-world vibes with modern California cuisine.

As you walk up the enchanting pathway, you’re greeted by a warm, rustic atmosphere. The cozy bar is perfect for sipping a cocktail before your meal. Once seated in the country-style dining room, you’re in for a treat.

Don’t miss their famous dishes like Oysters Bingo and BBQ baby back ribs. For dessert, try the S’more Pie – it’s a local favorite. The chef uses fresh, local ingredients to create tasty American dishes with a California twist.

Buckeye Roadhouse is great for special occasions too. They offer holiday menus, like their Thanksgiving feast with unique touches like Dungeness Crab Pillow and maple mashed yams.

Cuisine Type: American (Pub)
Price Point ($$): $$ – $$$
Rating: 4.5 (1300 reviews)
Location: 15 Shoreline Hwy, Mill Valley, CA 94941
Contact: (415) 331-2600
Website: Visit Website

Madcap

You’ll love Madcap for St. Patrick’s Day in Marin County. This cozy spot in San Anselmo serves up creative, modern California cuisine with a twist. The chef uses fresh, local ingredients to craft unique dishes that change with the seasons.

The atmosphere is warm and inviting, perfect for a festive meal with friends or family. You might find Irish-inspired specials on the menu for St. Patrick’s Day, alongside their regular innovative offerings.

Don’t miss their craft cocktails, which are as imaginative as the food. The bar staff knows how to mix a mean drink, and you can bet they’ll have something green and delicious for the holiday.

Remember to make a reservation, as Madcap can get busy, especially on holidays. You’ll want to secure your spot to enjoy this San Anselmo gem on St. Patrick’s Day.

Cuisine Type: American, Farm-to-Table
Price Point ($$): $$$$
Rating: 4.8 (276 reviews)
Location: 198 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, San Anselmo, CA 94960
Contact: (415) 453-9898
Website: Visit Website

Bungalow 44

You’ll love the cozy, welcoming vibe at Bungalow 44. It’s the perfect spot for a casual St. Patrick’s Day celebration in Mill Valley. The restaurant feels like your neighborhood hangout, with warm lighting and comfy booths.

The menu is all about fresh, local ingredients. You’ll find dishes made with goodies from the Marin Farmer’s Market and local farms. The flavors really pop, and you can taste the difference.

Whether you’re marking a special occasion or just grabbing a weeknight dinner, Bungalow 44 hits the spot. The staff is friendly, and the atmosphere encourages you to relax and enjoy your meal. Don’t forget to check out their dessert menu – it’s worth saving room for!

Keep in mind there’s some construction happening, but don’t let that stop you. Just enter through Sunnyside Ave, and you’ll be all set for a great St. Patrick’s Day meal.

Cuisine Type: American (Pub)
Price Point ($$): $$ – $$$
Rating: 4.5 (388 reviews)
Location: 44 E Blithedale Ave, Mill Valley, CA 94941
Contact: (415) 381-2500
Website: Visit Website

Irish Culture in Marin County

Marin County has a vibrant Irish community that has shaped local culture and traditions. You’ll find Irish influences in food, music, and annual celebrations throughout the area.

Historical Influence

Irish immigrants began settling in Marin County in the mid-1800s. They worked as farmers, ranchers, and laborers, helping build the region’s infrastructure.

You can still see their impact today. Many place names have Irish origins, like Murphy’s Irish Pub in Sonoma. Irish-American families have been prominent in local politics and business for generations.

Irish cultural organizations keep traditions alive. The Irish-American Social Club of Marin hosts events year-round. You can take Irish dance classes or learn Gaelic at local schools.

Annual St. Patrick’s Day Festivities

St. Patrick’s Day brings Irish culture to the forefront in Marin County. You’ll find lively celebrations throughout March.

San Anselmo’s American Legion Post hosts a party with Irish dancing and live music. Local pubs like Finnegan’s Marin offer special menus and entertainment.

Family-friendly events abound too. The San Francisco Zoo gives discounts to visitors wearing green. Many towns host parades and festivals with Irish music, dancing, and food.

You can join in Irish-themed runs, like the Leprechaun 5K in Novato. Or attend Celtic music concerts at local venues throughout the month.

Traditional Irish Dishes

Irish cuisine offers hearty comfort foods and unique flavors. You’ll find both classic recipes and modern interpretations on St. Patrick’s Day menus.

Classics You Can Expect

Irish stew is a must-try dish. It’s made with lamb, potatoes, and vegetables in a savory broth. You’ll love its rich taste and tender meat.

Corned beef and cabbage is popular in Irish-American culture. Though not traditionally Irish, it’s become a St. Patrick’s Day staple in the U.S.

Soda bread is a quick bread made with baking soda instead of yeast. Its dense texture and slightly sweet flavor pair well with butter or jam.

Colcannon combines mashed potatoes with kale or cabbage. It’s creamy, comforting, and often served as a side dish.

Modern Twists

Irish coffee gets creative updates. You might find versions with flavored syrups or alternative spirits.

Chefs are reinventing shepherd’s pie. Look for gourmet versions with unique meat blends or vegetarian options using lentils.

Boxty, a potato pancake, now appears in fusion dishes. You could see it as a base for international toppings or in breakfast sandwiches.

Guinness-infused dishes go beyond stews. Expect to find the iconic beer in desserts, sauces, and even as a glaze for meats.

Tips for Celebrating St. Patrick’s Day

Get ready to paint the town green! Here are some fun ways to celebrate St. Paddy’s Day:

Dress up in green. It’s a must! Don’t forget accessories like hats, beads, or face paint.

Try some Irish food and drinks. Enjoy corned beef and cabbage, Irish stew, or shepherd’s pie. Wash it down with a pint of Guinness or Irish coffee.

Listen to Irish music. Create a playlist with traditional tunes or modern Irish bands.

Learn an Irish dance. Look up YouTube videos to practice some basic steps.

Host a St. Patrick’s Day party. Decorate with shamrocks and rainbows. Serve green snacks and drinks.

Watch Irish movies or shows. Pick a classic like “The Quiet Man” or a newer film set in Ireland.

Attend a local parade. Many cities hold St. Patrick’s Day parades with floats and performers.

Try your luck! Buy a lottery ticket or play some games with friends.

Remember to celebrate safely. If you’re drinking, use a ride-share service or have a designated driver.

Lastly, spread kindness. St. Patrick’s Day is about community, so share a smile with others!