Surrounded by some of the richest farmland in California, Novato is the perfect place for culinary adventures to explore the thriving "locavore" food scene. Spend the day tasting local wine, discovering the pleasures of artisan cheese, and sitting bayside around icy trays of freshly shucked oysters. If this is your idea of nirvana, then you've come to the right place.
Karen Pavone
Karen Pavone is a Novato resident and writer, specializing in artisan food production and sustainable agriculture.
Breakfast of champions
Start the day off right with a locally-roasted espresso or latte drink and a sumptuous scuffin from Dr. Insomniac’s in downtown Novato.
Go west
Explore the diverse offerings of West Marin’s artisan farm community on a culinary adventure with West Marin Food & Farm Tours. You’ll love the camaraderie of this small group experience as you savor the sites, sips, and tastes of this unique agricultural region. Choose from themed day trips including an Oyster Lover’s Tour, Cheese Lover’s Tour, or Flavors of West Marin Tour that combine tastings with farm visits. These culinary excursions offer a unique behind-the-scenes glimpse of some of the finest food producers in the North Bay.
HOT TIP:
Reservations are essential for West Marin Farm Tours. Email Elizabeth at Food and Farm Tours to make a reservation and mention VisitNovato.com
Peruse Point Reyes Station
Take a stroll down the quaint main street of this popular West Marin artisan community where you’ll find small galleries filled with local art, great food, and a laid back vibe. Be sure to stop by Toby’s Feed Barn and Tomales Bay Foods where you can pick up a wealth of local products, wine, and artisan foods to bring home.
Sunset sips and supper
As the sun dips on the horizon, head back to Novato where you can top off the day at Trek Winery. Voted Best Tasting Room in Marin, Trek’s spacious indoor/outdoor seating areas offer the perfect place to unwind around a cozy fire pit while enjoying award-winning sips of their premium North Bay white, red, and sparkling wines.
When the mood for dinner strikes, tuck in for a delicious meal at one of Novato’s fine local dining establishments. Cheers!
