This is a great place to check out if you're looking for wine. They have a pretty extensive collection; probably one of the more robust I've seen. Additionally nice is that if you're like me and you came looking for hard liquor, they have a fridge full of mixers like juice and soda handy as well. read more

Absolutely horrendous treatment. I parked my car with plan to visit Walgreens across the street and return to buy something at the store. A man came out of the establishment screaming that I need to get off his property. I told you my plans and he said he doesn't care. I said you need to be nicer to people and he told me he doesn't want customers like me. I've never been treated this way by a store manager or worker anywhere. I didn't understand the level of aggression.. I mean if you think I'm abusing your parking lot just say "excuse me this is for my store". Then I'd explain and return to buy something. Rather than that... crazy. Hope this is not indicative or Marin liquor store experiences.. completely over the top. read more

"Marin Beverage Outlet: Where Vapes Go to Die" These people are selling towell hd crap vapes , the most fake vapes I've had in Marin , will be informing others immediately, sad to see these people live fake lives like their vapes , what else are they selling that's fake ? Their liquor , everything counterfeit lol . I should've known something was off when I picked up the vape -- the packaging looked like it was printed on a toaster. No seal, weird font, crooked barcode... but I gave them the benefit of the doubt. Big mistake. The flavor? Burnt popcorn mixed with battery acid. I've had campfires that tasted smoother. It hit like it had already lived nine lives before I even opened it. Tried to scan the verification code just to make sure, and surprise -- it didn't even register on the brand's website. Not "invalid," not "expired," just "this product doesn't exist." At that point, I realized neither does their integrity. And let's talk about the guys behind the counter. I'm convinced they've been "taste testing" the stock -- they looked higher than the prices on their fake Elf Bars. You know that glazed-over, "I've been hitting my own inventory since sunrise" look? Yeah, that. This place isn't a store; it's a graveyard for fake vapes and customer trust. Save your lungs, your wallet, and your brain cells. Marin Beverage Outlet is basically the Wish.com version of a smoke shop. read more

Marin Beverage Outlet - Counterfeit garbage - Beer, Wine & Spirits Near Me - San Rafael, California

I've shopped at this store for over a decade. While it has often been overpriced and the customer service has never been especially warm, I continued to shop here because of the selection and my desire to support local businesses. Recently, however, I had an experience that changed that entirely. I arrived at the store to make a significant purchase for a large upcoming event, parking in the lot. I needed to quickly drop something off at a nearby shop, but would be returning within minutes to do my shopping. The parking lot was completely empty at the time, other than my vehicle. Before I was even a few steps from my car, the owner came running outside, aggressively shouting at me for parking there, stating that my car was stopping other people from being able to park. He spoke over me, refusing to listen as I calmly tried to explain the situation and that I was a long-time shopper there. I fully understand a business enforcing its parking rules, but given that I would be back immediately and clearly communicated my intention to buy, I expected some basic understanding and courtesy. Instead, I was repeatedly interrupted, dismissed, and told--quite bluntly--that he didn't care if I ever shopped there again. The interaction was unnecessarily hostile and deeply unprofessional. After reading previous reviews here, I see this is a clear pattern. I left without making a purchase and will not return. I very rarely saw other customers in the store when I shopped there, and this experience helped clarify why. In an area with many alternatives, customer service and basic respect matter. read more

Fantastic selection of liquors. I am a huge fan of tequila and love to go searching for new bottles or I often stop by after work and pick up a bottle of my tried and true favorites. The owners have always been very helpful and have made some great suggestions regarding different brands I should try, or a certain bottle I might enjoy. A little on the pricier side, but I am always happy to support local businesses. read more

Great variety of Premium Wine & liquor at very good prices. The employee was very helpful in finding what we were looking for and also told us about the alternates available read more

This place has a wide variety of drinks, you can find everything! Aman was kind and helpful. I wasn't sure what I wanted to get and he quickly gave me recommendations. I definitely recommend this place. read more

Huge selection and super friendly! No trouble parking and found exactly what i needed. Will absolutely come again.

They could stand behind their high end wines instead of blaming bad wines on their distributors. They sell bad bottles and refuse to make right on them. I spent $700 on two bottles of wine, both of which were bad. When I tried to return them the proprietor refused to exchange or refund. The corks were bone dry and broke off when we opened the bottles. read more

MBO fell under new ownership less than a year ago to the sweetest, most knowledgeable guys, Monty and Aman. Since then, there has been a massive expansion on what they carry; non-alcoholic, food, legal mood-altering goodies, and rare wine/beer finds. The floors are always spotless, and the shelves are always dusted and stocked. I have been loyal to this place for many years, and will continue to be. I'm so happy Charles turned his baby over to some really wonderful people. read more

Excellent selection of fine spirits you don't see anywhere, or hard to find items they got it. They also added a large cabinet of cigars. Close to home too nice! read more

Extremely rude owner! Ordered to leave for no good reason. I forgot my mask and after he asked me to put it on, I said OK and did so. Then I made a casual comment that he took this mandate quite seriously and then refused to help me and ordered me to leave immediately. All I wanted was a bottle of Chianti. read more

Marin Beverage Outlet is a good place to stop for any alcohol you may want. They have a great selection of spirits and pretty decent beers. Their wine section is also up to par and the prices aren't bad. read more

I recently moved across the street and was curious to see what they have. I've went twice and both times were unpleasant. The guy that works there doesn't greet you or offer any assistance. He just stares at you and makes you feel unwelcome. Luckily there are other places nearby with an assortment of craft beers. read more

Marin Beverage Outlet has a lot of wines, hard liquor on display. beers in the back fridge too. tab may be a bit pricey 3.5 stars for convenience buys Ninkasi oatmeal stout(4.49) -ok, ninkasi good stuff drips: -hard to reenter traffic, to many cars both sides. -notice bar at left side on rear. no barrister on duty, lunch time. read more

Always a pleasure to shop here. Charles knows his products and makes excellent recommendations. read more

I went in here looking for beer specials for the super bowl and when I inquired with the cashier (Asian dude that other reviewers here say was rude)...he was unnecessarily rude saying "We don't do sales here... the price is the price!" I went to the beer section and the prices were 25-30% higher than anywhere else. Doesn't "outlet" make you think discounted?? Waste of time!! read more

HAHAHAHA..should have read all the reviews before calling. At least he saved me the trip...he hung up on me!

The owner or person in charge is extremely rude and does not wear his mask in the store. He also only let me park in his store for a little time when I was shopping or he would charge me. read more

Nothing special here might get 3 stars but the owner apparently doesn't know how to tell time or doesn't adhere to the business hours came in after the game 15 mins to close and doors were locked I'd understand if it was closer to close but 15 mins that's just laziness plain and simple not going here again. read more

I thought I was alone and that it must have been me but after looking over the reviews apparently my interaction yesterday was nothing new. I walked in and made a joke about a woman's dog outside and we had a laugh and a smile. Maybe the owner had a crush on the lady or something because after she was gone, and i was not interrupting them, I asked about their bitters selection. He said "that's all we have" in an off-hand way as to say "stop bothering me." Maybe I was reading too much into it. I continued to look around the store and asked the guy "which of these half bottles of wine is the best" and instead of inquiring what do I usually like or what I was looking for he just loudly and rudely yelled "I DONT KNOW WHAT VARIETALS YOU ARE EVEN LOOKING FOR?!" I politely and calmly asked him "Sir are you sure you want to help me today?" Here he could have said anything: "Sorry I've had a rough day." "Yes I would love to help you, let me ask you some questions about what you like to drink." "Not really I'm busy with some other things but please have a look around the store and see what you think you might like." Anything. Instead he told me to leave his store and never go back there. "You know what, why don't you just leave my store! i don't need your business." Because I asked two questions in two minutes I exhausted his potential for human interaction for the evening. This guy is rude in epic proportions. I won't ever go back. read more

Don't know what all the hype is about the owner, Charles. I've bought a few bottles of wine from here, a few cases of beer, and asked a few questions about such spirits. Each time I felt Charles wasn't in the mood to help because I did not purchase large quantities. Once, I asked for two empty cardboard boxes (wine cases for my move) along with the purchase of one bottle of wine. I figured I needed to grease the money monkey before inquiring such a high demand. He looked at me as if he was doing me a huge favor. Huge Favor. We're talking extraordinary. On the plus side, they do have a great variety of wines. But you will find a better price at United Markets or Trader Joe's down the street. You just might not find that particular bottle. read more

RUDE! i just received the rudest customer "dis-service" i have ever experienced! Generally i love & support locally owned businesses, but needless to say i won't be going back here. read more

I want to give this place a better review and rating but I cannot. We have been coming here since moving to san rafael over 2 yrs ago. As it is just down the street and carry my husbands favorite beer constantly. In the months prior to or wedding we worked with the owner on getting the kegs we wanted - both of which were special order. We were impressed that they were willing to go out of their way for this. But BUT - I wouldn't say he RUINED my wedding but he defiantly put my husband and groomsmen in a serious funk and panic to fulfill our needs. My husband took another of the groomsmen to get the kegs specifically because he was a keg delivery guy for the past several years and knows his shit and we don't and we didn't want to stress about not getting the proper equipment. Well turns out this is the worst/best thing we could have done. Worst - when our friend noticed that the keg tap wasn't properly working he pointed it out to the owner and asked for another tap. This sent the owner into a bit of a disgruntled mood. Best - upon further inspection when showing him what was wrong he found that there was copious amounts of mold growing in the tap. I can only imagine how disgusted this would have made me let alone the possibility of how sick it could have made our guest! After pointing this out the owner then started to boil and yell extreme profanities and slander at all of the guys. Telling our friend how he had now ruined our wedding ... which is silly and untrue. maybe for a bridezilla but not us. Luckily the guys were quick thinking and were able to achieve getting some last minuet kegs from the stellar ppl over at BevMo. I refuse to now go to this store and resist the urge to go in and be that "bridezilla" who wants to let the owner know he was a complete jerk and poor business owner. It's really a shame - they do have a great selection - buyer beware as you might just be forced out for setting the old man off at the drop of the hat. read more

This place is usually on my list whenever I make it over the bridge. the owner is this sweet guy who is always so very helpful and has no problem calling you out when you try to buy a $10 bottle that taste like a $40 bottle, hehhe I appreciate his honesty! read more

This place is pretty well stocked with any type of spirit, beer, or wine you could want. I mean, rows upon rows of booze. If that's not enough for you, they even have a bar set up in the back (for real). I've come in here a few times, and I'm only interested in beer. They never disappoint. The back cooler is stacked to the brim with good suds, and of great variety. Prices are reasonable, too. I like to visit this place because it's like BevMo!, but locally owned. Win. read more

OHH my Goodness! I thought I might be the only one that believed the person who manages the store was rude. I thought he was being rude just because of the coronavirus scare. Some people BEST and WORSE behavior comes out in challenging times but I found I was mistaken. He does have an anal fixation with his parking lot. I see that in reviews spanning the last 4 years. He is not helpful and seems to make up his mind about a customer as soon as he lays eyes on him/her. His prices are a bit high (about 20% above average) and he thinks if you do not end buying something it means you parked for free. I can put up with his inflated prices. Sometimes supporting local businesses that are not part of a chain necessitates putting up with a bit of higher prices. But ornery and plain cantankerous behavior is a deal-breaker for me. I will never go back there! read more

A drunk walks into a liquor store... ... and finds a bar in the back! Am I in heaven or purgatory? Until I figure that one out, let me say this! I love this family owned liquor store! Its like the non-annoying Gap strategy for retail booze. You are promptly greeted with a, "Can I help you find anything special"? If you don't need help they will leave you alone. If you look confused Charles will help you decode the endless varieties of wine, tequila and liquor until you find your holy grail. This one time.. we needed a great tequila for a super snob motorcycle mechanic. Charles brought us to the back where we all (owner included) proceed to tequila taste for quite some time. Now THAT is customer service and the nail in the coffin of customer retention. Screw the bevMo, Go MBO!! read more

One of the most unprofessional and rudest experiences I've have encountered from someone that works in the service industry. Charles, the owner, is always in a bad mood when I've come in. Doesn't care about giving customers a good experience, just ready to take your money with his steep pricing. In addition to his unfriendly attitude, I went across the street and left my car in his parking lot for all of 5 minutes maximum, I come back to have him chastising me for parking in his lot while I'm not shopping in his store. As if people are incapable of parking on the side streets.... He's ridiculous. I apologized and told him I'll never come back to shop here. Best of luck if you have to engage with this insufferable man and his arrogance. read more

I love the selection and the interaction. The man who runs this store is a real person, it's taken me a while to warm up to him but he's the real deal. The store may seem cluttered and the service (at first) unresponsive or even rude but the man knows what he is talking about. I love shopping local but I realize that shopping local means that the person who is running the establishment is their own boss and therefor doesn't owe you anything, they are real people. In fact, if you want impeccable service and invaluable recommendations, you need to be as patient and persistent as the owner is. Obviously they need customers to keep the business running, therefore if you want to buy a decent bottle of Chard, just pick one and pay but if you want the man to spend time and effort guessing what you love to drink then do him the favor of frequenting his store and get to know him. His sense of humor is about as dry as a 2004 Tuscan chianti but he's definitely worth getting to know. The gentlemen who runs the store knows what he is talking about, he's passionate about his selection and loves what he does. That's what makes his selection great, he's spent years researching, tasting and refining. The least we can do as customers is ask his opinion and really listen. The problem these days is that we think if we go into a store, willing to drop some money, we think that owners owe us their time. That's a perfect business model but if you want someone's attention and knowledge, be willing to pay for it...not just with cash. read more

Popped in quickly for some bottled water. Pricey. The cashier was neither friendly or unfriendly, but definitely seemed bored. Uneventful really. read more

Owners are just superb people. I think the naysayers here didn't take the time to talk to the OWNERS not vice versa.

Gotta love Charles. He will help you out no matter how busy he is and if you give him a budget and # of bottles you need he will choose the best! Such a nice guy and great service every time, they will carry everything out to your car and load it up! Love it! read more

I love Charles and company. He's extremely knowledgeable about all things alcohol and an all around great guy. There have been several times where I was inquiring about single malts or tequila and he advised me to try something which was less expensive than my initial choice. He's a true connoisseur who values taste and truth over all else. :) We can't really say the beer, wine, liquor is low-priced in Marin or the bay area in general, but his prices are very competitive compared to other stores in the same area. Some of my favorite beers are literally 1-2 dollars more expensive at Andronico's down the road and even Delanos in Fairfax(!!) Now if only Marin County (Mesa Brewing) would carry my favorite beer BLACK HAWK STOUT(!) It's readily available in Honolulu where I used to live but I can't friggin; find it an hour from the brewery?!? Charles asked for me though, as he's cool like that. If there is something you want that he doesn't carry, he'll definitely look into it. Great place, great people, great atmosphere, good prices. 5 stars!! :) read more

Not sure why the owner gets set off by some folks, but I have never had a problem. Maybe I go on good nights or because he has what Im looking for at a great price or maybe its because Im a hi end drinker/customer but I have never had a hard time hear as I see some have. I also am a bargain shopper most of the time which is what lead me here. I am a connoisseur drinker and sometimes Bev Mo just doesnt have what I'm looking for and in this situation they didnt have it and when they do its more money than here. I can only speak of my experience and that has been great. read more

I asked about any discount available for the expensive bottle of wine. Owner told me that I am disrespectful and I am not welcome in his shop and he would call police if I try to shop there again. I did not mean to be disrespectful and was trying to be polite but felt very upset as a customer. It is not the way to treat any customers who has rights to ask about available discounts. Sorry but I will not shop there again. Lost profit for the owner as I spent good money there before this incident. read more

My husband and I stumbled upon this place when we first moved to downtown San Rafael, and we've been regular and loyal patrons ever since! Charles (the owner) is consistently friendly and extremely knowledgeable. He carries the best local brews, a vast variety of wine and sake and EVERY kind of liquor. This place is just as good as BevMo, if not better. They even have a tasting bar in the back! Help support our local businesses and shop at the Marin Beverage Outlet! read more

The outside looks like a typical liqour store, but when my husband and I went in, the owner quickly greeted us and asked if we were looking for anything particular. We said no and continued to browse the selection. I thought the owner would hover around us, but he gave us space and came quickly when we needed something out of a locked case. Although some prices are escalated, the selection here is great! The selection is on par with BevMo, but with better service. read more

The owner always gives the best advice. He has never steered me wrong. Definitely preferrable to buying yer booze at Safeway, Trader Joe's, or BevMo. I can't say that the deals are that great, but if you want an informed decision and a pleasant shopping experience, this is the place. read more

I always forget about MBO until I've passed it and find myself in the disgusto Safeway scouring the beer aisle. Charles, the owner, deserves all the praise- he knows his stuff and has an experienced opinion on the world of booze. That being said, I'm much more of a beer fan than a wine drinker, and this store's wine shelves seem much more extensive then their beer selection. But Charles did steer me to a truly excellent brew, Jever pilsener, which I had never tried and now is one of my favorites. Prices are not the cheapest, but it's great to support the local business owner who cares about his customers. And yes, the stories are true- there is a bar in the back for tastings. Haven't indulged there yet, but a time will come. Well done, Marin Beverage Outlet. read more