Buckeye Roadhouse, a pleasant Marin surprise

Having just recently moved to Marin, it is embarrassing that I was introduced to what I would say is the best restaurant in South Marin by a New Yorker. Admittedly a New Yorker who is a fellow food fan and a prospective west coaster so I guess that makes it ok.

Right off the 101 in Mill Valley, Buckeye sits up on a hill. The winding path up to the lodge style restaurant feels like you should have done a good days skiing prior to dinner. Inside on a Tuesday night, it was packed with a broad range of patrons; older well dressed couples having a nice night out, families, younger couples and us. The inside was very homey with soft lighting and lots of wood, high windows and a fire place. Our waiter was a true professional and kept us entertained with great wine and great service.

Food wise, you couldn't go wrong, according to our waiter. We opted for the Grilled Artichoke with a Taragon dip followed by the pork chop and the butternut squash lasagne. Desert was unavoidable and somehow expected. Smores chocolate, flourless chocolate cake soon disappeared. It seems Marin has a classic dining spot. Go here for a treat, not light on the wallet but an experience you will undoubtedly want to share with others. Thanks DL.

Flour and Water, finally...

It has been 6 months since Flour and Water opened on Harrison Street in sunny SOMA. After a 50/50 set of reviews from friends and other food fans, I thought it was time to finally check it out for myself. Not cutting to the final score card just yet, I will say that it was better than expected. The inviting and warm interior designs from Sean Quigley spill out onto the street luring you in from a relatively unassuming block. Smiling faces all round starting with Marya the hostess (I hope I spelt your name right), the service was impeccable. Very calm and attentive, apart from one over eager girl who was very determined for us to have desert.

The menu is concise and well kept, looking to fulfill the ambition of the owners to create a place where people can experience great Italian food without all the fine dining fuss and pomp. Focused around pastas and pizza - we opted for pasta. Sat on one of the long communal tables by the door, we kicked off with the chanterelle mushroom and roasted squash appetizer and followed with the winter savory pappardelle with pork sausage and the parsnip tortelloni with a 25 year old balsamic vinegar. Perfect portioning, tasty dishes and friendly neighbours and staff made this a highly enjoyable dining experience. Give it a go, the smiley people are waiting for you....