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HOTS: Heard on the Street

Jan 5, 2026

HOTS: Heard On The Street > Local gossip, facts, news, rumors, and red herring  The following posts are editorial comments with some links to resources, and reference materials, with unverified street-talk and tall tales from the Heart of Marin and surrounding hospitality finds. Enjoy.

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New Announcements, Foodie News, and HOTS. Ready? OK.. Here We Go:

NEW ANNOUNCEMENTS & GOSSIP:

  • HAPPY NEW YEAR! A Toast and “Cheers” from Creekside. Wishing everyone a fantastic 2026. Reflecting on 2025, our community has come together in time of unimaginable tragic loss, political unrest, and parking meter disasters …but we remain strong, diligent, and hopeful for a better tomorrow. On the upside, we have new Creekside babies, new families in town, an absolutely first-class fantastic summer concert series and community events, great shops and amazing restaurants. We Are San Anselmo Strong. No bad days here in the Heart of Marin. We’ll be here leading the charge and bringing joy in 2026. Thank you for encouraging our behavior! > CLICK HERE
  • OUT IN THE VALLEY The Paper Mill Saloon has undergone a complete remodel and IS NOW OPEN! Congratulations to our friend Bryan for this nearly 3 year undertaking. This classic valley, community tavern has a long history of good times, live music, and a stop-off for bikers and tourists on the road to Point Reyes. Visit their Instagram page > CLICK HERE and follow @papermill_creek_saloon
  • DOUBLE DIPPER is Creekside’s January Pizza of the Month, available now > CLICK HERE
  • NEW MEXICAN RESTAURANT (finally) opens in one of Marin’s legendary spots. After years of bringing this former fish & chips and full bar pub, Tacos El Tuscan has rebooted the former Pier 15 location…located at… 15 Pier Street in San Rafael, tucked off of the Canal-side of Auto Row. The rustic over-water pier deck is always a summer treat overlooking the marina at Harbor Center… where we used to rock “Three Klicks Out” aka TKO back in the 80s. Anyway, add this destination spot to you places to consider when asking “…what do you want to eat tonight.”
  • START YOUR ENGINES for the award-winning short film COLD START by local filmmaker Richard Townsley (Exclusively on YouTube). CLICK HERE. Richard got his editing chops at a young age, shot shorts here in San Anselmo and Creekside while in the COMACAD Program at Drake/AWHS when the script was developed. COLD START is a heartfelt 15 minute short, winning Best Newcomer and Best Editing awards in Film Festivals around the nation. After Drake HS, Richard attended the New York Film Academy for digital editing and is now with Blumhouse Productions in LA in the editing department working on such recent films as M3GAN 2.0, Five Nights at Freddy’s 2, Wolf Man, Black Phone 2 and other films distributed by Universal Studios. Cold Start was filmed at Ukiah Speedway and in Orange County where Creekside and provided Craft Services, production support, travel, and vehicles for the filming of COLD START plus short experimental film “Occupied” (2026 release), and other locally shot features. Movies are the only thing Creekside caters; we love being on set and supporting actors and production crews. Thanks for watching, thanks for sharing, Drive it home today! COLD START > Streaming Link
  • MARINITAS RESTAURANT …has a new Change of Ownership notice in their window. These yellow posters are issued by the ABC, the Alcohol Beverage Control, a state agency, to inform the community of a location that sells alcohol. Notifications must be posted for 30 or 60 days in plain sight. If a business is transferred/sold or a change of percentage of ownership with a member/partner taking or losing more than 51% of the ownership… the people get vetted and the public gets notified. This goes for all types of public facing restaurants, retails, wholesalers, et al. Anyway, the current bouncing of license is much ado about nothing… a bouncing of the existing license between former operators, current operator and building owner. Marinitas has been a long standing San Anselmo favorite and continues to serve our community with fine Mexican food, happy hour, full bar; also a good choice for “larger” parties and groups, celebrations, and business meetings.
  • RED TAIL ALE …the legendary OG ale of all craft beers, is BACK and available now at Creekside. For decades, Mendocino Brewing Company’s flagship label in highly sough-after large format, hand capped, yeast-in-bottle beer was considered the motherload of craft. In 2018, Mendo closed their doors (under somewhat mysterious circumstances some would say) just as craft beers were gaining national attention and early adopters were thriving. Eye of the Hawk, Blue Herron, and Red Tale faded into the obscurity of legend and became bedtime stories that brewers would tell their children. BUT.. Good news, like the phoenix rising from the ashes, and the swallows returning to Capistrano, RED TAIL ALE is back, licensed with the OG label and original recipe, now brewed by Fogbelt Brewing Company in Santa Rosa. We’re stoked to flip this bird back on tap here at Marin County’s #1 craft beer destination, Creekside Taproom. Red Tale Ale, now on tap every day at Creekside SA.
  • FOR OUR RESTAURANT FRIENDS …if you’re reviewing your online reservation system or looking for a new solution, our friend Mike Bausch has a great review of the top platforms > CLICK HERE
  • MORE PIZZA IN MARIN in addition to the recently added and incoming San Rafael (Fratm, Hot Italian, et al).. the crafty catering/food truck team of FOX PIZZA is opening a brick and mortar in Ignacio. Fox Pizza has been doing EXCELLENT work out in the field, honing their skills and offerings. We grab pizza from them when we hit the Fairfax Farmers’ Market across the street from Sorella. The Fox is loose and will Crush it, giving Novato and Marinwood guests a closer pizza option than driving to destinations Creek or LoCoco’s for great pizza. Follow Fox Pizza Marin and give them a thumbs up on IG > CLICK HERE and follow @foxpizzamarin
  • GO FUND ME ACCOUNT is now seeking donations for legendary local musician Tommy Rox. If you know bay area rock and roll history, Tommy is one of the faves here in Marin; the very first artist to play at our old stompin’ ground, New George’s Nightclub. Tommy started it all and played for years at venues around the bay and a residency gig in Cabo for years. Tommy is in need of urgent/critical physical therapy and severe pain management to be able to walk again. Thank you for a donation to Tommy’s fund today > CLICK HERE
  • COMMUNITY CALL TO ACTION as San Anselmo’s favorite local artist MICHAEL FELDMAN needs help! Michael took a spill this last week and fractured his hip/pelvis. This, as we know, isn’t great. Coming home after a fairly quick PT/rehabilitation, Michael will be down for a few weeks if not well into February. Michael’s daughter Natasha (formerly of Hilda’s and Creekside, and Taco Jane’s) has created an online site and asks for your help. Please visit Michael’s MEAL TRAIN page and offer your support by signing up on this site to schedule your meal delivery. Meals can be home-made, store bought, or from one of our fine local restaurants here in the Ross Valley area. “Gift Cards” on this site are also an
  • option. Thank you for your help. ALL ABOARD Michael’s Meal Train > CLICK HERE
  • UNDERGROUND ZERO: Creekside Pizza & Taproom is “ground zero” … or Building #1 to flood; thank you very much. My bad for building a restaurant over a creek in a flood plain. I digress. Floods happen we have very wet ground, prolonged rains, heavy bombs of rain OVER FIVE inched PER HOUR, plus a “King’s Tide” …and the occasional rogue hot tub stuck under a bridge… all of these conditions generally need to happen for the town to flood. As always, common sense goes out the door when the media trucks start to show up. Keep the kids safe, keep away from creek banks, sinkholes, narwhals, any downed utility lines. Stay safe. The Town and RVFD maintain a Creek Camera and Flood Monitoring Station. Watch and Bookmark the CreekCam > CLICK HERE
  • NOW OPEN > Marco’s new Italian deli here on San Anselmo Avenue in the former space of DG Cafe (411 SA Ave) across from the Wells Fargo Building… is OPEN: Marco’s Gastronomia; genuine Italian sandwiches, daily specials, platters, and salads > CLICK HERE
  • THANK YOU to the San Anselmo Chamber of Commerce for sponsoring this year’s Chanukah Festival, downtown merchant Winter Walk shopping night, and the always magical Holiday Tree Lighting Festival. Imagination Park has never looked so festive. Best year ever! Check out this year’s amazing Holiday Tree and take pictures with Yoda under these sparkling lights of Imagination Park. Many Thanks to all participating merchants and businesses for sponsoring all of these events, along with the annual Flower Baskets and San Anselmo’s LIVE ON THE AVENUE Summer Concert Series and Street Festival. Additional HUGE thanks to The Town of San Anselmo Town Manager, Town Council, the hard working staff and Public Works crew, and the amazing backbone of Live on the Avenue: Mattie O’Grady and Jamie Bristow of SA Recreation. Our town’s summer music and street fest draws thousands of residents and visitor to our town and has become the envy of other Bay Area communities. To every merchant and person who contribute to our town’s efforts, we thank you. This Community is what makes our town The Heart of Marin.

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    BEER INDUSTRY SHIFTING as Budweiser closes their 50 year old plant in Fairfield off Highway 80. Demand in the region, California operational and labor costs, logistics, fuel, and industry consolidation is putting this giant brewery out to pasture. In the meantime, the craft beer niche of the industry may be in it’s “maturity” side of the lifecycle, but expansion seems to be the game vs “new entrants” as Fieldwork continues to grow their footprint, Freewheel now in San Rafael, Hidden Splendor coming to Marin, Woods Beer is still fighting to open in San Anselmo, Ghost Town spreading in the east bay, Almanac many be the most profitable of all bay area brewers, East Brother opened a Mill Valley taproom, and the list goes on. Plenty of options out there looking to fill a void, offer unique products, and provide a community space to share stories and have fun.

  • NOTES 4 HOPE has been around for almost a decade, a local non-profit supporting people fighting/recovering from breast cancer. Our friend Elena Keating, a survivor, introduced us to the N4H program this year when we committed to our annual partnership in their program. Donations are always welcomed… CLICK HERE … and you can see how they support people on this CBS News link with Elena > CLICK FOR VIDEO
  • ZOOMED > Town Manager’s Community Forum – December 1st • 8:45am the Town of San Anselmo presented their 2025 survey results and conclusions for the Live On The Avenue summer music program. Lots of data points, quantitative and qualitative, new findings, projections, and input from community residents, business owners, and stakeholders. Don’t say that “The Town didn’t ask for input” or “The Town isn’t listening” when it comes to the concerns of the people. MEETING #2: Parks & Recreation Commission meeting – Tuesday, December 16 • 4:30pm Town Council Chambers at Town Hall or on zoom: CLICK HERE…The Town is holding these meetings to gather additional input from stakeholders before the Town Council considers the 2026 plan for LOTA at their January 13, 2026 meeting. The goal is to strike the proper balance between the community’s desire to gather and celebrate in our amazing downtown and the needs of our businesses who have expressed concern over some of the impacts the event series has on their business vitality. Staff will present options on how the series could be formatted in hopes of finding a solution that works for everyone involved.
  • PLAY BALL! Sign-ups are happening now for 2026 San Anselmo Rec girls’ softball teams for TK-9th grade. Get Involved! All of the many many programs offered here in our magical Town of San Anselmo are listed on the San Anselmo Recreation program catalog page > CLICK HERE
  • HILDA’S COFFEE SHOP… as officially announced on the CreeksideSA Instagram page, is under new ownership and under a complete remodel. Demo has been completed, and now the new design and plans are under way for a January build-out. Yeah, your friends at Creekside and an assembled team of local pros are on it, because we love this town. > MORE INFO
  • NEW BUSINESSES COMING …some day.. as Pretti Platters up by Red Hill (formerly Ayurn Thai) is rumored to be un-red tagged and may return to be a Thai restaurant (another example of restaurant delays due to not following the rules). The Java Hub on Greenfield continues to lay dormant. Former Kientz Hall space taking shape under a completely new concept and owners. We’re excited to see this fantastic new concept from a bulletproof restaurant group and local resident. We’d say more, but we don’t want to ruin their mystique as their concept unfolds in Q1 2026.
  • GIVING > Creekside On A Mission as we dive headlong into the holidays and colder days, we bring our sights back to gratitude and how we can help others. It’s a topic often swept under the line-of-sight here in Marin, but there are individuals, families, and displaced people in need of support, food, and shelter. As community advocates, Creekside continues to support fundraising, awareness, and outreach to our local, regional, national, and international non-profit partners (who address homelessness, elder care, hunger, and basic shelter) including St. John’s of Ross, ExtraFood.org, Gilead House, St. Vincent de Paul, Agape Farmhands, Slice Out Hunger, Pizza Across America, and Marin Humane (supporting animals here in Marin), and Creekside’s own local family emergency program, Project Homebound, offering meal for Ross Valley families in short-term crisis situations. There are many ways and places you can help. Creekside is now working to help build “DO GOOD NOW,” a start-up community non-profit ‘aggregator’ to connect local non-profits with people looking to volunteer, donate, or support programs AND build a growing list of non-profit organizations looking for volunteers and donors. Join us and be the first to help grow this network resource. You can “Do Good Now” > CLICK HERE
  • OTHER LOCAL NEWS and GOSSIP: After three years of shouting at the rain here on HOTS… a lot of other Marin-focused blogs have gained traction, especially on Instagram. Check them out and subscribe. Good content!

> Marin Lately | Marin Buzz | Marin Dad | Marin Eats | The Real Deal Marin | Barfly by Jeff Burkhart <

HOTS NORTH BAY FOODIE & HOSPITALITY RUMORS & UPDATES:

  • RYAN SCOTT 2 GO is Amazing... Celebrity chef and local resident Ryan Scott’s Boutique Trailer Cafe just off San Anselmo Avenue at Center Blvd and Redwood (between downtown SA and Fairfax).. is next level. His mochas cannot be beat, breakfast and lunch masterpieces, lobster rolls, and flavors that will make your tongue stand up and beg for biscuits (which are equally stunning). Totally family and pet friendly outdoor dining and takeout. Gotta get some RS2GO! > CLICK HERE
  • FIELDWORK BREWING NOW OPEN in Santa Rosa. There is a lot of beer brewing in northern Sonoma County including Russian River, Old Caz, Moonlight, HenHouse, Cooperage, Old Possum, Crooked Goat, Lagunitas, Fogbelt, Parliament, Sonoma Springs, Iron Ox, Wolf House, 3 Disciples, Barrel Brothers, Cuver, Fieldwork is putting everyone on notice as they expand pretty fast throughout the bay area.
  • WORLD’S #1 PIZZA coming to Marin and Sonoma counties. As noted in a 2024 HOTS blog, our mentor and friend Tony Gemignani (13 time world champion pizza chef, owner of Capos, Tony’s Napoletana, Pizza Rock, and the nationally expanding franchise “Slice House by Tony Gemignani)… franchise rights were carved out and purchase here in Marin, Petaluma, Santa Rosa, Napa, and beyond; over 100 franchise units/regions purchased last year… a stunning and well executed launch and package. Franchisees (people wanting to open a location) need around $1m bucks plus liquidity, experience, and proven track record. It’s big stakes, with a proven machine: Slice House is taking US by storm, circling the bay area, LA, SLC, Idaho, Arizona, Vegas, TX and spreading east. The model is great, and the pizzas are perfection; Detroit, Grandma, NY, Sicilian whole pies or by the slice. You can also find Slice House at The Sphere, Chase Center, and Oracle Park (noting the franchise locations have a wider range of pizzas and aren’t that ballpark high-volume style presentations). Franchise locations are mostly “fast casual” service, takeout and third party vendor delivery. We were just in Vegas with Tony at  Pizza Fest, and as we always note, there would be NO CREEKSIDE without Tony Gemignani, so we are excited to fully endorse and champion the coming-soon location… which we are sworn to secrecy…but it’s not San Anselmo. MORE PIZZA options coming to Marin including two new downtown San Rafael pizzerias (Fratm Pizzeria now open with good lookin house made pasta CLICK HERE) in addition to the five there already, plus Slice House. Wishing Good Hunting to our new fellow pizzaiolas. Visit the original Slice House on Stockton Street in SF.. where the franchise began, as well as where Creekside got our chops, training, and hand-holding from Laura Meyer and Tony G, noting that you should visit Laura Meyer’s restaurant in Berkeley.. it is Amazing (Pizzeria da Laura CLICK HERE) and to learn more about Slice House > CLICK HERE
  • A PLACE FOR GRATITUDE , drinks, and small-plate food now open in Fairfax. Meet the all new Marin Public House, a pub with a mission for community and gathering. They’re in the plaza (easy parking) near Fairfax Brewing and Sunshine Bikes. Check out their mission and give them a try. Small plate food and appetizers, an international selection of beer and wine. Outdoor (dog friendly) patio and well-appointed indoor space. A hidden word-of-mouth destination located in the breezeway of the Fair-Anselm plaza behind Sunshine Bikes, Fairfax Brewing and Carmen’s Hacienda next to the creek. For Video on IG > CLICK HERE …and for Public House website > CLICK HERE
  • ABSOLUTIONALLY FANTASTIC Congratulations to our friends at Absolution Brewing, winning gold at GABF, plus Double Gold at the San Diego International, and now this past week earning three slots in the top ten nationwide in Craft Beer & Brewing magazine. Since our very first day, we’ve had Absolution on tap. Their Juice Demon Hazy IPA is one of our most popular pours, and the 405 First Responder IPA is getting national recognition as one of the finest in the nation. Well done, boys! Come to Creekside for Absolution! MORE INFO
  • SPREADING BUTTER: San Anselmo’s “M.H. Bread & Butter” is spreading into downtown San Rafael, taking over the former Crepevine location across the street from The State Room. Like we echo again and again, things take 3 times as long and 2x the cost with any food business. Since the closure of Arizmendi Bakery at the Courthouse Square, M.H. should do well. Other bakeries include Ponsford Place (tucked away behind Cains Tires), Muffin Mania (aka Armida’s Bakery) on B Street, Bordenave’s (with over 100 years of service in Marin).. and that’s kind of it in downtown San Rafael. “Casabel” next to the new M.H. spot, a “sister location” shared-space location is apparently still available. Two new pizza places coming to San Rafael as well, one in the former Iron Springs taproom location with a Neapolitan style pizza, and longer off, a SF based pizza place going into the former Whippersnapper location… again, noting the aforementioned “more time and cost” model of attempting restaurants in Marin.
  • ALCOHOL SALES DOWN is the regional and national trend running throughout the industry, warning bars, breweries, and restaurants to avoid entering the market right now (or quickly change focus) as America seeks healthier and N/A options ..a trend we see here at Creekside and our other ventures. That’s good and bad news if you’re nimble and diversified as a venue. “Heathy America” comes-and-goes, but it is now a significant downward trend. Reuters, USA Today, Gallup, NY Times, Chronicle, CNN.. et al.. noting “the trend is Not Your Friend” in nightclubs, bars, beer, wine, spirits, and alcohol-centric operations. National distributors closing, industry consolidation, increase in scaling/expansion failures are rampant. Beverage industry friends: Pivot now.  Consumers: Alcohol sales are equivalent to Popcorn sales at movie theaters  ..be prepared for increased food costs dining out. A quarter or full point decrease in Fed interest rates won’t help here.
  • GOING BY THE WAYSIDE as Fairfax’s BBQ smoke house, brews and beer garden WAY STATION closes their doors. After about a year on the market with a broker, the owners sent a farewell notice to the community announcing the closure. They are still pumping out some catering and takeout apparently > MORE INFO
  • CREEKSIDE vs PARKINSON’S with an annual donation to John Arena Foundation. Last week at the Las Vegas Pizza Festival, Pat & Laura Townsley presented world champion pizza chef (owner of Metro Pizza) John Arena with a heartfelt contribution to his fund, The John Arena Foundation supports Parkinson’s victims with hands-on pizza making activities, fostering communication, engages motor skills, builds confidence and community. We met John years ago with NY Pizza Tours expert Scott Wiener at John’s award-winning Metro Pizza during the International Pizza Expo. Watch the presentation > CLICK HERE FOR VIDEO and to learn more and donate to the fund, visit JohnArenaFoundation.org > CLICK HERE
  • CLOSED and FOR SALE… and not long after opening is/was Corte Madera’s “MIJO Marin.” Opened in the spring, this unique Spanish-Cali cuisine, friendly-staffed, and well-appointed restaurant now has a “Mijo Is Closed” sign on their door, another ghostly tale in this former haunt of Mosley’s, Izzy’s, Savannah Grill… and a laundry list of well-intentioned restaurants. This business location is FOR SALE for a cool $500,000… a screaming deal actually. Former home to Savannah Grill and Izzy’s and Mosely’s… right right concept could be a great destination restaurant. Interested parties can email [email protected]
  • POSTED and PAPERED and CLOSER TO OPENING.. the ABC notification for transfer of a liquor license into the former Kientz Hall space has run its course (Type 47/48 license which allows for full liquor (vs just beer/wine). .Business name shown as “Tu Tap” . Things are moving in a good direction for this project. Like any project here in Marin, upgrades to accommodate any new design, or upstairs bar, or even changing a faceplate on a light switch can trigger a domino-effect of permits and challenges. That being said…the paper is up on the windows and no issues with the ABC; things are in motion. Very exciting but sometimes seemingly slow progress on the Avenue. Patience.
  • ABSOLUTION TAKES THE GOLD! The “big daddy” of recognitions and awards for craft beer is the annual Great American Beer Festival (aka GABF) held every October in Denver. In the industry… this is a big deal, a game changer for many craft brewers lookin to make their mark. Just announced, our friends at Absolution Brewing Company have secured the first place GOLD award for their special release of “The Rector” … the beer we have a release party for here in the spring every year at Creekside. A Strong golden Belgian ale, The Rector hit a bases loaded 14th inning home run. Congratulation. Come to Creekside for Absolution (we have their IPA, NEIPA, and Red Ale always on tap), and visit, follow, like and order beer directly from Absolution Brewing > CLICK HERE
  • CLOSED AFTER 60 YEARS of service is San Anselmo’s beloved Hilda’s Coffee Shop. Owner Sue Kirton retires and bids a tearful farewell to the business her family has run for the last 4 decades. Declining guests, declining revenues, and rising costs, plus an impossible list of operational and building improvements to continue service. Thank you SUE and the KIRTON Family for making wonderful memories, tasty delicious burgers, and legendary pancakes. Subscribe to our Creekside Newsletter for future details on the space  > MORE INFO
  • DRIVE-THRU FOR SALE as EDO GRILL on SFD (formerly a Jack in the Box at Red Hill) is listed with HL Commercial at $1.5M clams. That’s the building and the restaurant. Still open for business, the sale comes as-is and shows it is a “turnkey” business ready to operate,,, HOWEVER, any serious buyer will have to comply with County of Marin Environmental Health Services and bring anything out-of-code … in to code compliance, so “Turnkey” doesn’t always mean there won’t hurdles and additional TI to comply; you can bet on it. Check with EHS and Town of SA. An on-site pre-sale inspection by EHS is a MUST with any food establishment purchase. This EHS thing is a real stickler. ANY and ALL prospective food establishment buyers, sellers, property owners BEWARE: Any change of ownership triggers 100% compliance and upgrade, which triggers a cascade of other building issues and code enforcement. Budget for 2x Cost and 3x Time to open and 4x years off Your life expectancy. You’ve been warned. Good hunting. 
  • NEW BEER HALL NOW OPEN and PUMPING: Congratulations to EAST BROTHER BEER COMPANY and their successful opening of their new Mill Valley experience, The Tam Tavern (CLICK HERE). Located in the former “Floodwater” restaurant space, East Brother (named for one of the two islands near the Richmond San Rafael bridge) beautifully appointed their new funhouse. To check out their video and follow @tamtavernmv on Instagram > CLICK HERE
  • CLOSED > Amy’s Drive Thru in Corte Madera closed, leaving their Rohnert Park (off Golf Course exit) your Amy’s destination. Duper Duper is open in the Corte Madera space off Lucky Drive.
  • OPENI> Fieldwork’s newest location in their quest for quenching your thirst, now open in Santa Rosa’s Montgomery Village off Highway 12. Montgomery Village was the sister-design to Strawberry Village back in the day. Fieldwork is at Corte Madera Town Center, Oxbow in Napa, somewhere in Sacto, and their flagship brewery, just an easy hop over the Richmond San Rafael bridge on 6th in Berkeley. Santa Rosa location info > CLICK HERE
  • FANTASTIC VOYAGE, the corner spot swank wine and craft-snack bar (500 San Anselmo Ave) is now serving a full bar with exceptional craft cocktail, brews, international wines, and expanded food menu. Voyage, now “Bar Voyage” and kitchen partner “Sam’s Sonoran Menu” …is crushing it on the corner. A new must-experience here in San Anselmo. More info > CLICK HERE
  • VENTI IS BETTER? Going bigger at Safeway at Red Hill Shopping Center, Starbucks has completed their new full service coffee bar to the center entry at Safeway at Red Hill, moving it from their dinky little wall corner next to the sushi counter. I guess the shrimp tempura latte wasn’t a favorite.
  • BEVERAGE NEWS: (Keurig) Dr. Pepper slated to buy Peet’s Coffee for $18B. That’s an expensive cup of coffee. Major distributor RNDC has closed (see below). Seismic Brewing Company in Santa Rosa closing.
  • PUT A LID ON IT: A somewhat ridiculous new law is in effect for bars and restaurants with a full liquor license (Type 48). Anyone with this “full bar” license must be able to provide guests with a Drug Detection Kit, and provide a lid for any drink upon customer request. I guess this is to reduce slipping a Mickey, Roofie, or Spanish Fly in your Brass Monkey. Your tax dollars at work for you. State Assembly Bill AB-2375 > CLICK HERE
  • RESTAURANT OPPORTUNITY in San Rafael: In an overnight closure, the once popular “Crepevine” and sister space “Casabel” vacated under cover of darkness, leaving a turnkey downtown 4th Street San Rafael location prime for a fresh concept. This place (we just did a walk thru with the owner)…has more than meets the eye. Owner is willing to lease either half, but a smooth operator would take both and find a three-legged approach to success in this space. As with any restaurant, Only serious and well financed parties should inquire. This is NOT an industry for under-capitalized dreamers. This is a well crafted turnkey space (noting it will require EHS, City, Fire, and ABC approvals).. where “Turnkey” does NOT EVER mean “overnight.” Contact brokers at Keystone RE Advisors (John 415.235-8115 or Grey 415-728-7036).
  • NOT TOO BIG TO FAIL: Spirits/Beverage giant RNDC (Republic National Distributing Company), who grew pretty fast the past few years, buying well-established companies like Young’s Distributing… and now RNDC has closed. This company was a monster, with massive distribution centers and inventory. Other distributor have picked up their favorite beers, wineries, and spirits. We’ll take a stab at it and guess that they were way too “top heavy” in management, that smaller localized/regional distributors are more nimble, and that the overall niche of “alcohol” may be in a declining trend in a more health-conscious lifestyles, Each one of these factors by itself along with regional and interstate regulations likely added up to the meltdown.
  • THE BEST AT SFO: Our friend, teacher, and mentor Tony Gemignani is opening SLICE HOUSE by Tony Gemignani at SFO. In addition to breakneck growth of his Slice House restaurants through franchising, Tony remains Hand On in the restaurants (including his original Tony’s Pizza Napolitana and Capo’s in SF and Pizza Rock in Vegas), creating new award-winning and industry leading pizzas and dishes to “wow” guests. Without Tony Gemignani, there would absolutely be NO Creekside Pizza. Tony and Laura Meyer (now of her own awesome shop Pizza da Laura in Berkeley) trained us in the recipes, the science, the process, and the passion of pizza, and for that, we are eternally grateful.
  • WINERY CLOSES: Marin’s award winning MANTRA WINES has closed.
  • FAREWELL DG CAFE, Welcome a NEW DELI:  In a recent post by owner DG Cafe owner, Chef Clive Nisse, his beloved cafe is coming to an end. Named “DG Cafe” as a loving tribute to his daughter’s ability to Defy Gravity, Clive and his family are changing course for a new direction. We all wish Clive and his family the best on their new adventures, and a mighty THANK YOU for your passion and contribution to our community the many past years.
  • BREWERY CLOSING: Santa Rosa’s Seismic Brewing Company closing.
  • JUST NOTING the AMAZING work “Iron Chef” Ron Siegel has done here to the culinary scene of the bay area. With a Star-studded Michelin rating year over year, Ron and his team never miss a beat. The food and experience is absolutely stunning. Madcap Marin, a true San Anselmo shining star. Check out the pix and review on Michelin > CLICK HERE
  • ANOTHER ONE BITES THE HOPS: After 25 years in SF, 21st Amendment Brewery  announced their closure last month as craft beer breweries struggle with economics, demand, and an aging industry (moving from “maturity” to decline, consolidation and/or closure). Also closing is Seismic Brewing in Santa Rosa, following the death of Civilization Brewing, New Belgiam Brewing in SF, the closure and move of “Bear Republic” into Drakes, Fort Point moved out of Fort Point, not sure what happened to Headlands, but they’re not in the Headlands anymore, and locally operated Indian Valley Brewing has closed, along with Marin Brewing Company and Moylan’s. It is a cautionary tale and can be tough time for craft breweries unless you are Old Caz (booming in Rohnert Park), Almanac Brewing is absolutely crushing it, and Absolution Brewing Company just celebrated their 11th year anniversary and continues expansion across Nor Cal plus dominating hotels and stadiums in LA and the OC. Sonoma Springs is doing well (we’ll be bringing them on later this month), Ghost Town is a monster (making some of the best IPAs, like.. ever), Humble Sea and Fieldwork continue their expansion, and Original Pattern continues their awesome beer production and great company culture. East Brother Beer just opened Tam Tavern in Mill Valley (CLICK HERE) with a stunning new family friendly beer hall in the former home of Floodwater (East Brother also now available at The Metreon). How to survive in the Beer industry in second half of this decade? Make GREAT beer, have an amazing guest experience, and a raving fan culture. Ghost in the spirit world is national distributor RNDC… a MAJOR U.S. player, just closed all nationwide operations (as we noted previously, likely due to top-heavy management, an overall decline in spirits sales due to a healthier lifestyle movement, plus taxes, fees, interstate fees, logistics, fuel prices)… not an overall Not-Great outlook for growth in this sector.

OLDER NEWS:

  • Click image for Craigslist adSPOTLIGHT on SAN ANSELMO > Amazing cutting-edge work by the Town of San Anselmo as early-adopters of true AI next-generation Traffic Control systems now active at The Hub and coming shortly to all 12 traffic light intersections, cutting automated wait times at lights by at least 30%. Very cool and good use of AI, and great news for drivers, pedestrians, and bikes. Kudos to Sean C and Scott S for their hard work and getting funding for this project. More info on the project below, but take a look at these: Video > KPIX  |  Video > CBS | SF Gate | Marin IJ | Local News Matters |
  • KUDOS to the COUNCIL as thousands gathered around live-streams to watch the September San Anselmo Town Council meeting where Paid Parking was the hot issue of the year… and the crowd went wild when the 4 attending council members (1 of 5 was recused) noted the challenging and erroneous implementation of Paid Parking and voted for the immediate repeal of meters on San Anselmo Avenue. We, Creekside, our customers, visitors to the town, town residents, and the merchants of our community all THANK the San Anselmo Town Council for their transparency, responsibility, and their swift action to abolish this parking program. Additional appreciation to the Town Manager and the Public Works Department; their work often goes quite unnoticed… and they matter. DPW bagged the meters and put new signage up in under 12 hours. Nice.. with a footnote; if anyone needs a paid parking kiosk and app program, CLICK HERE.
  • A+ for AI in SA… Did you know that the Town of San Anselmo received grants/funding to study, design, and install AI controlled traffic light systems at the intersection known as the Hub? Yeah, San Anselmo’s Public Works guru Scott Schneider has been working hard behind the scenes on many projects, and got the money and the system in place. The Hub system uses cameras to detect approaching vehicle speeds and volume from all directions.. from Miracle Mile/Red Hill, Sir Francis Drake (both directions), and Center Boulevard. Even though it may sometimes feel like 10 minutes at the Hub, your friendly neighborhood AI has successfully decreased wait times, causing some people to complain that they no longer have time to check their email or send text messages while waiting for the old school timed lights. This…is a good problem to have.
  • ANOTHER A+ for THE TOWN with Traffic Flow Improvement on eastbound on Center Blvd between Andronico’s and the hub transit bus pad as a second lane has been added there. Newly pained, this eliminate “land sharing” with the busses, providing two clear lanes for traffic approaching the hub from Center/Fairfax area. Please note the pedestrian crossing zone. “Daylighting” of the crosswalk will help keep busses from obstructing pedestrian crossing from the bus pad towards Andronico’s, and this crossing area is also traveled highly by young school children and elderly, so slow it down and be aware of the changes. Legally, you cannot cross a crosswalk until the pedestrians have safely crossed the entire crosswalk, and you CANNOT pass a school bus on EITHER side of traffic flow if they have their RED FLASHERS and STOP signs extended. It’s the law. Thanks to a new grant to pay for the expansion of this program, look for AI traffic control systems coming to ALL 12 traffic light intersections in the coming months.
  • FOR SALE… 115 Tunstead at San Anselmo Avenue. The former site of The San Francisco Running Company, across from the library. Nice building. SF Running Company is keeping their Mill Valley store (up and running) plus online shopping > CLICK HERE
  • PRIOR PROPER PLANNING: We’ve been “lucky” the past few seasons here in Marin: No floods, no fires, but it is never to late to get your “Go Bags” for family and pets, and get a plan. When would Now be a good time to be ready for a disaster? Resources > CLICK HERE
  • HAPPENING > Daylighting Crosswalks: You may or may not notice the loss of a few more downtown parking spots locally and statewide as new state laws requiring “daylighting” at intersections are implemented. To comply with California State Assembly Bill 413, this is way out of the Town’s control; they must comply. In short, “daylighting” intersections at crosswalks means eliminating parking spaces and loading zones where a vehicle can block the line-of-sight between pedestrians and moving vehicles. In the daylight of recent events and people blowing through intersections, this makes sense, but losing parking is always the rub. In the meantime, paid parking is here, and SLOW IT DOWN: school opens soon and this community cannot live through another crisis. Visit the Town’s website for more information on parking, projects, and daylighting > CLICK HERE and for a video from an LA station describing Daylighting > CLICK HERE
  • PAID PARKING EXTENDED at the October 14th San Anselmo Town Council meeting, where the council refused to repeal paid parking in Creek Park parking lot for the public, extending the time from 2 hour limit to 4 hours of paid parking. Feel free to (respectfully) express your opinion on Creek Park Parking by emailing the Town Council members in a single email to all: [email protected]
  • AN EXHAUSTED BATTLE AND TENS OF MILLIONS OF MONEY WASTED: TAKE DOWN THE FENCE! CREEK PARK PLAZA WILL RETURN in 2026… BB2, Building Bridge 2, aka, Creek Park Plaza, aka Re-imagine Creek Park, aka Creekside Plaza, aka “What the hell is that fence up for.” Whatever you call it, the bridge/plaza here in downtown San Anselmo is owned by the County of Marin, not The Town of San Anselmo (stop beating up on the Town staff!… not their fault). Also on last month’s Town Council Meeting, a much improved presentation by the County of Marin regarding the proposed removal of BB2 was a breath of fresh air from the previous train wreck under previous County supervisorial oversight. This time, under new supervisory management, a very well spoken, clearly “detailed,” and easy to follow County presentation was… presented …however there was a lot of holes in the data. GIGO and FUBAR come to mind. Past data has been redacted, new data is inconclusive, models provided conflicting outcomes, and the money, oh the money: The presentation mentioned a looking-forward $12m budget, with $2m for the actual demolition (and upgrades), and then they kind of glazed-over the total scope of somewhere around $68m for the total project… but that means over $50 MILLION has been spent to date with ZERO progress. But get this; for BB2 to ever be demolished, 100% of ALL identified properties (apx 68 between San Anselmo and Ross are of concern in the downstream floodplain) must 100% agree to the the mitigation (including structural upgrades, “wrapping,” and punching pressure relief vents in several homes). If any ONE homeowner does not agree, then the project dies, or the County could play the “eminent domain” card. Let the lawsuits fly. Oddly also; the previous budget earmarked for residential property mitigation was in the millions… but magically it’s now $400k. Right. Then there is a problem with the trees along BB2 and the cross sectional engineering to keep the root structure… and what wasn’t mentioned was the retaining wall on street-side along San Anselmo Avenue… that wall holds-up San Anselmo Avenue…and that pressure is held back now by the lateral abutment support of the actual platform structure they want to remove. Good lord. So, Terminal Factors: any one resident could end this whole thing (pointed out as the biggest risk to the project by councilmember Burke), the Town of San Anselmo could simply NOT issue the demo/building permit, or there could be class action lawsuits, or FEMA could literally be disbanded (as pointed out by councilmember Schlesinger), or the still needed funds (not to mention the missing millions) could dry up. They talk probability of flooding over 10, 25, and 100 year storms and the probability of damages… however, the probability is 98.9% that the demolition of BB2 will never happen given any one single terminal factor. It sounds like it is time to throw in the towel on this one (but they will continue to spend your taxpayer money to prove their point). In the meantime, there was a loud and clear message from the community and punctuated in closing statement by Mayor Kullaway: Remove the fence around BB2, free Creek Park Plaza, and return access to the public. County officials agree the plaza should be returned to public use, and Town officials are pushing for it, and anything else is a waste of time, resources, and money. The message to The County of Marin: Tear down the fence, Free Creek Park Plaza. IT IS ABSURD that the County continues on their path and press releases thinking they can remove the bridge without repercussions, and 400k to “fix” all the houses in Ross on the creek??? Come’on.
  • SAN ANSELMO SHINES in MARIN as local businesses take the center stage in Marin Magazine’s 2025 BEST OF COUNTY > CLICK HERE
  • SOLD on the AVENUE: Small commercial building next to Creek Park bridge, former home of J-Architecture (now vacant) and ongoing (not moving and will continue daily yummy Gelato service after, like 36 years here) San Anselmo Gelato. This double unit commercial space is rumored to see a new retail space going in next to Gelato.
  • FRAMED: A new framing store has taken roost, transplanting from over 50 years in Larkspur, (with a couple other bay area shops as well. THE PAINTERS PLACE (apparently no apostrophe because the owner’s family name is actually “Painter”…so it’s a plural) has opened its doors at 380 San Anselmo Avenue (formerly “Collage” boutique across from the San Anselmo Inn. Looks like their doors are open. Time to dust off those prints, posters, and lithos and get them framed. Website still shows the Larkspur info, but they’ll get around to it. Larkspurians welcome. MORE INFO
  • SMALL TOWN CHATTER ECHOED ACROSS NORTHERN CALIFORNIA as PAID PARKING made bay area TV news broadcasts the and front page of Marin IJ (ABC-7 Bay Area: CLICK HERE | KTVU-2: CLICK HERE | KPIX-5: CLICK HERE | Marin IJ: CLICK HERE) Money wasted, lesson learned, but the REPEAL actually happened on September 11th. Post 9-11 story on KPIX > CLICK HERE
  • COCKTAILS & DREAMS as San Anselmo’s downtown sees a rise in “spirts” and hard alcohol. Cucina s|a was the first in this generation to get a full liquor license after their remodel and expansion; great classic cocktails expertly made, plus a robust wine list. Taco Jane’s was next, changing from a Type 41 beer and wine license to a Type 48: Full bar, specializing in Tequila and Mezcal and recently expanding to “all spirits” and several signature cocktails. Voyage opened this year with an international wine selection and a hipster vibe, complete with a pair of SL-1200 turntables. Recently, Voyage reconfigured their bar with two speed racks and a shiny new Type 48 license, boasting great mixology and craft cocktails. That’s Three; each unique in style, vibe, and specialties. Next, buckle up for a likely mid 2026 new restaurant and bar…

  • CLICK IMAGE FOR SPECS & DATA

    MORE PRAYERS to the people of Fairfax, seemingly about to get steamrolled by the 243 unit “School Street” mixed use and residential megaplex, a towering 7-story housing unit proposal. Brutal. Yes, we understand the two sides of the coin here. Problem: The need housing… affordable housing, more housing, power to the people. Counterpoint: On the other side is common sense, short and long term impact, aesthetics, culture, and actual demand in a tiny community far out in the uncharted backwaters of the unfashionable end of the western spiral arm of the Galaxy. It’s a tough balance to keep charm and growth. Proposed solution: Over 240 units, including over 40 Section-8 low income housing… that could be upwards of 500 tenants, say…60% will have cars… clogging up SFD and The Hub intersection, not to mention the narrow streets of Fairfax, plus upwards of 500 people stressing the infrastructure of sewage, waste water, water demand, power grid, and the parking. Yet another cautionary tale to make sure your elected officials don’t have extreme agendas or conflicting interests. Well, there goes the neighborhood. You give’em Hell, Fairfax. The battle will rage on as government pushes large scale metropolitan growth on eclectic small-town America. SF Chronicle article > CLICK HERE .. or for NewsBreak story > CLICK HERE. Similar housing growth but more sensible project in Larkspur/Kentfield is now under construction on Magnolia for 16 units… is at least tasteful: Meet “Magnolia Village” info > CLICK HERE

  • MOVED: Aesthetic Pearl has moved a few doors down to 552 SA Ave with a very nicely appointed new space and treatment experience (located) next to OCN Culture. Visit Aesthetic Pearl > CLICK HERE
  • NOW OPEN: “Shorthand” now serving our town on San Anselmo Avenue; A cozy small chain brand of boutique shops. Cards, home office goods, arts and supplies “for the love of your desk” > CLICK HERE
  • EVENTS: Here’s a great site to find local “family focused” events across the bay area: Ronnie’s Awesome List > CLICK HERE
  • WHAT’S THE STORY? The downtown Bank of America building has Story Poles on the roof; Story poles (2x4s and yellow tape) tell “the roofline story” of the new proposed footprint, height, and/or envelope of the proposed new building or remodel. The story? May 27th Town Council Meeting heard an appeal by the building owners and approved the demo the entire site, grading, and a complete new mixed use commercial building (residential and commercial/retail). Have fun storming the castle.
  • DEMO DAYS at the old Jack’s Pharmacy location on Tunstead. Word that a French restaurant will be going in there. As usual, we wish them the best …in 2028.GOTT A LOT GOING ON AT THE MOMENT: Gott’s Roadside rumored to expanding to Santa Monica after success in opening at SF Ferry Building.
  • NEW SANTA ROSA TAPROOM: Cooperage has opened a (sounds awesome) new taproom in Santa Rosa, near the recently departed Civilization taproom.
  • GOT QUARTERS? There is fun to be had in downtown San Rafael at the Video Arcade & Taproom, PIXELS on 4th Street. Classic arcade games, pinball, and dozens of beers on tap with with scan of a wristband. Great selection of beers craft beers and a scorching case of PAC-MAN fever. Pixels > READY PLAYER ONE
  • LARKSPUR RESTAURANT Don Antonio’s (next to D.J. Cuisine and kind of across from Picco) closed a few months back. Rumor has it that an SF restaurateur (behind the now closed “Berber” Moroccan cabaret) has taken the lease, applied for liquor license, and signs in window indicate a November 2025 grand opening.DOMO ARIGATO: In addition to the raging success of Kuro Nami Japanese Kitchen here in SA, Petaluma’s “Paradise Sushi” opened earlier this year in the old Sushi To Dai for location on 4th Street in San Rafael, and now, former Dai chef traveled a mile down the road and took over Taqueria Cancun turning it into Maru Jun, now open. Congratulations BTW to Kuro Nami Japanese Kitchen for their wins in the 2025 Marin IJ “Best New Restaurant in Marin County.”

  • Marin Joe’s: Classic mesquite wood grill.

    CLOSED FOR REOPENING: Marin Joe’s had to shut down due to an ownership change. When a business changes hands, it must be brought into “today’s” operational code compliance with the Environmental Health Services. Marin Joe’s, legendary decades of dining (lunch, dinner, cocktails, and one hell of a meat locker) survived COVID, but not the County of Marin. Joe’s is hopeful they will reopen soon, but the reality is… like any transfer, remodel, new, or reboot of a restaurant space… this is going to be an endurance test for any restaurant group. Good luck, boys: keep the flatiron steaks, meat raviolis, and your dedicated veteran staff on the grill and on the floor.

  • THE PARTY EXPANDS in Sonoma County as the popular Petaluma “Brewsters” takes over the lagoon setting brewery site the old Bear Republic in Rohnert Park. Bold move. Party On.
  • MANTRA WINES in downtown Novato is closing its doors after 25 years and winner of best Wine/Winery in Marin County. Here’s you chance to open a fully operational wine bar and production facility. The business will be going on the market, if it isn’t already. Do you homework and make some wine. CLICK HERE
  • OLD JACK’S PHARMACY building may be finally getting some new life. Word on the street is a French restaurant concept may be going in there. That, however, is a long, expensive haul; that building looks like a shoot location from Blackhawk Down or Saving Private Ryan,
  • MOYLAN’S Brewery is closed. Years after legendary early industry brewing in Larkspur with Marin Brewing Company (closed a few years ago), founder/brewer Brendan Moylan, selling the building, tanks, lock, stock, and barrels in April. Possible asset action as they fleece the gear for new tenant putting a French bakery in that space.
  • GUESTHOUSE restauranteurs (Kentfield) have closed their Petaluma “Easy Rider” and just opened “MIJO” in Corte Madera, in the former Savannah Grill (now we’re dating ourselves), Izzy’s, something else…ah, Brick and Bottle, and lastly Mosley’s (via Tamalpie group). Mijo (meaning “son” or male child) with a Spanish theme.. I’ll guess great full bar menu and tapas et al, this will quickly become a Marin must-go-to. Open now. Disfrutar! The owners are looking for your “likes” and endorsements on NextDoor.com as a “Neighborhood Favorite” if you roost on that site.
  • MARIN JOE’S (Corte Madera) has been sold, under cover of darkness; property and business, but it sounds like it will be business as usual for now, keeping the classic staff, Ralph as GM, and the food we know and love. Their meat locker is arguably the best in Marin: try their Flatiron steak, usually on their specials board. WHOOPS: 8/2025 update .. now closed indefinitely for remodel. 
  • WHIPPERSNAPPER in San Rafael closed and a new Pizza place is going in there (in addition to Another pizza place on 4th Street where Iron Springs attempted a taproom) plus The Hot Italian. Whippersnapper space will require a kitchen upgrade and that means delays in opening due to the time consuming processes and approvals and inspections by the Health Department. WHOOPS. 8/2025 Update – This is now a total gut job as Giorgios Pizza posts a liquor license, but the entire building needs to be brought to Health Department code, so… call it 8 months and $250k.
  • EDUARDO’S beloved soup and sandwich place on the frontage road in Terra Linda is rumored to be retooling with a new operator. Eduardo’s closed over a year ago. WHOOPS: 8/2025 Update – They still haven’t opened.
  • BURREN HOUSE (new Irish pub on 4th next to San Rafael Joe’s...see below for more) is taking over the ruins of the Phoenix nightclub, so if they put as much thought and funds into that space “Burren Live,” downtown San Rafael is looking at a revival of entertainment not seen since we left New George’s in 1996.
  • SQUARED: DETROIT PIZZA & BOBA is NOW OPEN in Bon Air shopping center. We’re hard pressed to think of anyone doing Detroit Style pizzas in Marin. Two new pizzerias going in on 4th Street in San Rafael as well.

HEARD ON THE STREET:

HARDEN YOUR ASSETS > A clear and present cautionary tale of caution crept into our corner of the world: windows smashed and bikes stolen from Sunshine Bicycles in Fairfax, a car stolen in Kentfield is torched near Fairfax Lumber, clothing stolen from racks from clothing stores in San Anselmo, businesses being “cased” by … shoppers who distract the clerk while an accomplice sneaks into the back room and steals all the employee’s handbags, ebikes being stolen, packages lifted. “Harden Your Assets” by locking doors, increasing use of cameras, effective lighting, and presence.

TEAR DOWN THE BRIDGE: On Tuesday, April 15th, the County of Marin hosted another “nothing new” meeting/discussion at Town Hall regarding the demolition of Building Bridge 2 (fenced-off “plaza” next to Creekside), a  would-be flood control project (PS: water always wins) that has become a “watch out for that glacier” type of race to nowhere. Most reminiscent of the Vogons destroying planet Earth in The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy, at least the County is “listening” and engaging the public. Stay in the know, vote, participate, and be heard. Follow the San Anslemo Town Manager’s newsletter (a weekly update > CLICK HERE)

NOW OPEN > MARIN OUTDOOR TRADING COMPANY Soft opened March 18: An obviously-named business…they have a nice selection of “get outdoors and hike” gear, just in time for spring. Check’em out at 570 San Anselmo Avenue near San Anselmo Gelato. More info below. MOTC Info & Mailing List: > CLICK HERE

NOW OPEN > OKU DESIGN is now open…and it’s Sustainable Clothing and Home Design. 615 San Anselmo Ave > CLICK HERE

SAN ANSELMO SHINES in the Marin Independent Journal’s “Best of Marin” Readers’ Choice Awards 2025 with a well over a dozen Winner recognitions and many more Honor Awards. To see all the 2025 winners, CLICK HERE! Thank you for supporting local businesses and Congratulations to everyone who all the winners throughout the county and here in the Heart of Marin. The Readers’ Choice nominations were held in the fall of 2024 and announced in print and HERE ONLINE on February 23rd, 2025. Well done San Anselmo. Many wins for restaurants and businesses.

LIVE ON THE AVENUE is scheduled to begin on JUNE 20th with weekend entertainment every Friday and Saturday night. Subscribe to Creekside’s Heart of Marin newsletter for updates: CLICK HERE

RETURN OF THE BATTLE OF THE TEEN BANDS: After it’s debut year in Creek Park, the Town of San Anselmo Rec department will be announcing the 2025 Marin County Teen Battle of the Bands for Saturday, May 31st (NEW DATE). This was, by far, one of the greatest events in our town, with 10 teen bands from multiple schools, performing three songs of their choice, to be performed in 12 minutes, with a 4 minute set change between bands. Local celebrity judges included members of Huey Lewis and the News, Heart, and legendary rock columnist Paul Liberator. Registration/submission for local teen bands will be announced and handled by SA Rec in February 2025. Rock on.

PROPOSED TARIFFS ARE IMPACTING food costs already. We’re seeing lifts in pricing as supplies and wholesalers prepare for increased costs from products outside of the US, which impacts US products as well. Everyone wants to be market fresh, local, farm to table, organic… but the reality is that many supplies that support these ideals come from outside of our borders; boxes, bags, plates, spices, oils, kitchen-wares, packaging, fruits and vegetables, meats… then to the workers who pick the fruits, the handlers who transport goods, the drivers, pilots, quality control, sorting, packing, weighing, distribution, warehousing, sales, marketing, fuel, delivery… from “farm to table” for each ingredient has a very long supply chain.. so costs are going up in reaction, and if/when Tariffs take hold, we may see shortages, and shortages mean “supply and demand” costs will spike, especially on produce where a Lot comes from outside of our borders in the food industry overall. We are all interconnected, interdependent …no matter how “independent” one thinks we are. Take the impact of Tariffs, and compound that with an increased minimum wage, and we will see exponential costs from grocery stores to restaurants. This is going to hit across the board, and we’re seeing the costs rise already. This means “disposable income” will be more selective and less frequent. It’s simple Econ 101. Thank you for not freaking out, roasting and ranting on social media when your favorite restaurants, bars, takeout, and services start raising prices to stay in business, and Thank You for supporting local and family owned businesses in your town, and our town, San Anselmo, The Heart of Marin. (Posted 2/3/2025)

CAFE IN THE WORKS on Greenfield Avenue at the former “Java Hub” which was once a Taco Bell many many years ago..  next to Kris Kelson’s State Farm office. The “Leased” sign on the building for the past year is apparently reserved for the forthcoming “Cafe Reveille” … a group that has several locations in SF and one in Berkeley; bowls, burgers, salads, falafel, smoothies, juices, and coffee.  Unknown status as to when anything will get rolling in their Greenfield Ave location, but that’s what we hear on the street. More on them: CLICK HERE (Posted 1/10/2025)

NEW > BUBBALA’S JEWISH DELI: Now in full swing after a November soft opening, Bubbala’s Deli is serving up tradition Jewish deli classics every day. Located at Red Hill Shopping Center in the former Vine’s and “Jillie’s Wine Bar” near Pete’s Coffee, pastries, sandwiches (corned beef, brisket, pastrami, turkey, chicken) et al, are crowd pleasers. These guys had a long haul getting open, so give them a try. Visit their website CLICK HERE and follow them on Instagram CLICK HERE (Posted 12/22/2024)

WELCOME REDWOOD CREDIT UNION: New at Red Hill in the former Chase Bank, former Union Bank location, is now Redwood CU, offering full service banking and eliminating the nightmare of parking and lines at their Montecito location. Full service banking, loans, auto, etc. RCU is known for their community programs and member services > CLICK HERE (Posted 12/20/2024)

KIENTZ HALL CLOSES:  They say Tragedies come in threes, so hopefully this is the end of bad news here in town as KIENTZ HALL announces their closure here in San Anselmo. Our only Rooftop restaurant, Kientz Hall opened and won Best New Restaurant in Marin, plus several other awards in their time here on the avenue. A fairly massive space no doubt comes with a massive rent and extensive staffing to cover the building. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the operators of Kientz Hall, Marc and Linda, who put their lives and money on the line, and to the staff of KH and their families… we wish you all the best. Thank you for your service and vision to our community. Godspeed. Small family-owned businesses are the heart of small towns, driving economy and are the backbone of the local charm. Thank you for shopping and dining in your community. (Posted 12/19/2024)

NEW FULL BAR PROGRAM: Taco Jane’s has recently upped their game in the local beverage scene. Now in their 27th year here in San Anselmo and a passion for exquisite tequilas and premium mezcal, TJ owner Matteo has loaded the back-bar with a full range of spirits and is rumored to be making new recipes for Mai Tais, Caipirinhas, Mojitos, plus classic vodka, rum, and gin cocktails. Look for the expansion of Taco Jane’s full bar menu now and in the weeks to come. They also have buckets of Margaritas to go. Visit Taco Jane’s on Tamalpais across from Creekside. To visit Taco Jane’s CLICK HERE (Posted 12/17/2024)

MARINITAS is open under the same name with the New Operators of the two-location Avawaka restaurants (Petaluma & Novato Peruvian focused locations). Apparently they will continue the status quo menu and bar, and then may begin to offer more of their other successful Peruvian fair, which make sense and will set them apart with a proven model. Our best wishes to Marinitas founder Pat Coll and his family and team on their continued adventures in hospitality outside of San Anselmo.

FOODIE ALERT: In 2025, Leanne Battelle, food critic and columnist for the Marin IJ, will be launching a Marin-based Food and Restaurant website named after her popular foodie Instagram site, THE REAL DEAL MARIN (on Instagram @TheRealDealMarin). Website subscribers/members will be updated on new restaurants, menu items, and receive offers for select discounts and insider events. Follow on Instagram (CLICK HERE) and become an early subscriber for the pre-launch of The Real Deal Marin restaurant guide website: CLICK HERE (Posted 12/3/2024)

AURYN THAI RESTAURANT CLOSES > Red Hill area long-time Thai restaurant is permanently closed. New tenants will offer Breakfast and Lunch as “Pretti Platters.” Subsequently, the location has be issued a STOP WORK Red Tag (pink, really) by the Town for non-permitted work. Their next hurdle will be the County Health Department. Our prayers are with you. (Posted 12/1/2024)

FAIRFAX BREWING COMPANY: Off and running to a good start with a solid grip on the local community, a humble approach, and open doors, Fairfax Brew Co is cranking out the brews in the former location of the Ross Valley Brewing Company turned Iron Springs Brewing, stumbling as HenHouse Brewing West County Pub… and now back to basic with local branding by Alex Strickner and partners… also owners of the Flatiron and the State Room in San Rafael. Good vibe, good food, on-premise craft beers. Now on tap at Creekside as well, but visit Fairfax Brewing Company: CLICK HERE (11/20/2024)

KAMPAI! Check out San Anselmo’s newest restaurant (and surely to be award winning) KURO NAMI Japanese Kitchen in the former Sushi 69 space. Freshest fish, gyoza, rolls, soup, and sake at this beautiful space created by The Baan Thai’s Jackie Wave. Master sushi chefs Nina Simma and Yenni Soberanis are the twin driving forces behind excellent presentation, flavors, and classic Japanese fair in an upscale setting. To visit Kuro Nami CLICK HERE (Posted 11/5/2024)