Last updated: 2025-04-07
Popular Brunch Spots in Novato and Surrounding Areas
Novato’s brunch scene extends beyond city limits, with locals often venturing to nearby Mill Valley hotspots like Buckeye Roadhouse and El Paseo for their weekend morning fix. The Village Italian Restaurant anchors the in-town options with its Mediterranean-inspired fare.
From Mill Valley’s charming Piazza D’Angelo to neighboring San Rafael’s plant-based Cafe Gratitude, North Marin’s brunch destinations blend Bay Area innovation with Wine Country sophistication. Each venue captures the region’s laid-back yet refined dining culture.
Explore North Marin’s favorite brunch spots below!
Featured Brunch Spots in Novato
- Cafe Gratitude (San Rafael)
- El Paseo (Mill Valley)
- Piazza D'Angelo (Mill Valley)
- The Plant Cafe (Mill Valley)
- The Village Italian Restaurant
- Buckeye Roadhouse (Mill Valley)
- The Village Bakery (San Rafael)
- IHOP
- Tuttimelon
Buckeye Roadhouse (Mill Valley)
What to Expect
Signature Meatloaf Benedict
Description
Buckeye Roadhouse offers a quintessential Marin County brunch experience with rustic California-inspired cuisine. Their famous Meatloaf Benedict showcases the restaurant's innovative approach, combining classic comfort food with gourmet techniques. Nestled in Mill Valley, this spacious restaurant delivers a warm, wood-paneled atmosphere perfect for weekend gatherings. Signature dishes like their skillet-baked pancakes and hearty breakfast platters draw crowds seeking a memorable morning dining experience.
More Info: Buckeye Roadhouse ↗
Cafe Gratitude (San Rafael)
What to Expect
Plant-based wellness-focused brunch with intentionally named menu items
Description
A pioneering vegan brunch destination offering plant-based culinary experiences that nourish body and spirit. Specializing in innovative dishes like their 'I Am Grateful' bowl and organic, locally-sourced breakfast selections. The restaurant combines mindful eating with a holistic wellness approach, featuring vibrant, nutrient-dense menu items that celebrate compassionate, sustainable dining.
More Info: Cafe Gratitude ↗
El Paseo (Mill Valley)
What to Expect
Historic Spanish Colonial adobe complex with architectural heritage
Description
Historic Spanish Colonial restaurant offering a Sunday brunch buffet in a landmark setting. Housed in a meticulously restored 1922 adobe complex, El Paseo provides a unique dining experience with architectural significance. The restaurant features a Spanish village atmosphere, showcasing an authentic culinary journey through its buffet-style Sunday brunch featuring regional Mexican and Californian influences.
More Info: El Paseo ↗
IHOP
What to Expect
24-hour pancake and breakfast menu
Description
Classic American diner serving hearty breakfast and brunch favorites. IHOP specializes in fluffy, signature buttermilk pancakes with an extensive menu featuring everything from classic Rooty Tooty Fresh 'N Fruity breakfast combinations to savory chicken and waffles. The restaurant offers a casual, family-friendly dining experience with 24-hour service, making it perfect for early risers and late-night diners alike.
More Info: IHOP ↗
Piazza D'Angelo (Mill Valley)
What to Expect
Authentic Southern Italian neighborhood restaurant experience
Description
Southern Italian trattoria nestled in downtown Mill Valley, offering authentic cuisine with a neighborhood feel. Weekend brunch features classic Italian morning dishes like frittatas, wood-fired focaccia, and fresh antipasti. Rustic, family-owned atmosphere with warm service and locally-sourced ingredients create an inviting dining experience that transports guests to a traditional Southern Italian piazza.
More Info: Piazza D'Angelo ↗
The Plant Cafe (Mill Valley)
What to Expect
100% organic, locally sourced ingredient-driven brunch menu
Description
The Plant Cafe offers an organic, sustainable brunch experience featuring California cuisine with contemporary and Asian-inspired flavors. Specializing in locally sourced ingredients, their menu includes standout dishes like Avocado Toast with shaved radish and toasted garlic, and a Power Bowl with poached egg, brown rice, and kale pesto. The restaurant emphasizes 100% organic ingredients, wild sustainable seafood, and ethically raised meats.
More Info: The Plant Cafe ↗
The Village Bakery (San Rafael)
What to Expect
Multi-location artisan bakery with consistent quality across Rochester area
Description
Village Bakery serves fresh, artisan baked goods across multiple New York locations, specializing in handcrafted pastries and breakfast offerings. Their bakeries feature a warm, inviting atmosphere with a range of breakfast sandwiches, freshly baked breads, and seasonal pastry selections. Each location offers convenient online ordering and a consistent commitment to quality baked goods throughout the day.
More Info: The Village Bakery ↗
The Village Italian Restaurant
What to Expect
Weekend Italian-style brunch with outdoor patio dining
Description
The Village Italian Restaurant offers weekend brunch in Novato, serving Italian-inspired morning classics from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. Their brunch menu blends traditional Italian flavors with classic breakfast fare, featuring gourmet options likely including frittatas, Italian-style eggs benedict, and possibly pizza-inspired morning dishes. The restaurant provides a warm, family-friendly atmosphere with an inviting outdoor patio perfect for leisurely weekend dining.
More Info: The Village Italian Restaurant ↗
Tuttimelon
What to Expect
Self-serve frozen yogurt with customizable toppings
Description
Tuttimelon serves up delightful frozen yogurt and ice cream in Novato's Vintage Way neighborhood. This dessert spot offers a variety of self-serve frozen treats with multiple flavor options and toppings. Customers can create their own custom yogurt and ice cream combinations, making it a perfect stop for sweet-tooth enthusiasts seeking a refreshing dessert experience.
More Info: Tuttimelon ↗
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