Come for the Margaritas, stay for the Food! We like to start out our dinner at the bar for a Margarita, chatting with our favorite locals. The Margaritas are rich tasting, and definitely "not shy". They promote a festive neighborly atmosphere, complete with a lot of glass clinking. Then we head to our reserved table for some of the finest Mexican dining ever. Heidi and her staff have curated a menu that is familiar enough, yet new and interesting, as well. Dishes here are inventive will still being traditional. Try something new. The flavors will wow you! Marinitas is such delicious upscale food that even if someone doesn't favor Mexican food as we all know it (you know who you are), you will savor every bite of this fine-crafted cuisine as it is meant to be eaten. At Marinitas you pay the price for high quality ingredients, masterful preparation, and locally sourced items so don't be taken aback by the price you pay for excellence. Portions are designed to satisfy, not stuff. The service is careful and refined, pacing the meal with your preference in mind. We've never felt rushed or ignored. We always have hot food, and the time we want to enjoy it. read more

we had a big party, and the service they gave was good and i have complaints on that. it was served quickly and they took care of us. my only complaint is about my food. i was brought it wrong initially, my first red flag however was how quickly it got corrected. i got the chicken enchiladas, which typically is my go to "safe" option. this is the first time this was disproven to me. the chicken was shredded and looked like it had been boiled too long. absolutely no seasoning, it was soggy goop. absolutely inedible. after two hours of waiting for my lunch i was looking forward to some good food, but i cannot be too disgraced purely because of the size of our party and the efforts of the staff. however, i am very dissatisfied by the food itself. many people were not impressed with their food in my party. made me loose my appetite at least. read more

I hope the manager reads this. We recently dined here, it was our second time, and it will be our last. The first experience two years ago was great, the waitress was wonderful and the food superb. But this visit was just dreadful. The waiter was incredibly rude, he kept making comments about my wife's food allergies, at first we thought he was just kidding but when we reiterated the seriousness of making sure there was no nuts present in the actual food he told us how do you survive and perhaps you should go somewhere else and he laughed it off! The food was terrible this time and we were so disappointed. The carnitas has no taste, it came with a black bean purée and was served like a soup, it was awful. Again what a major disappointment, you lost a customer. read more

Written This is a tough one. The food is a 3.5, service lowered this rating. It wasn't a busy night and since we don't frequent this spot we didn't know if it's cuz biz is off or it's pouring out or ... Had the polenta app and the salmon entree. We described both of the dishes the same: odd ingredient selection, not bad, grows on you. That's not the stellar description one hopes for. All was saved with the absolutely best desert ever, freshly made churros with choc dipping sauce. Be still my heart! I almost ordered more, I wanted to. The service was another story, and made no sense. Never did our server ask if we'd like another drink, more chips, coffee with our desert, etc. Never were any dishes or glassware removed from the table despite the busboy taking a lap around the restaurant every few minutes, never once stoping to pick anything up. Is this why it wasn't crowded? Went back recently and sat in the bar area. It wasn't busy yet we were ignored as before. My husband declared this the absolute last time we will go. read more

Great flavors and fresh ingredients always consistent items on menu always good. Priced reasonable and delivery is always received warm.

Bad service, tasteless food and very overpriced for what it is. The server didn't come to our table until 20+ minutes of us sitting down. She look bothered and annoyed the entire time. read more

Abismal service. Food is good. Service is not old lacking but unfriendly. Hostess has personality of roadkill. Server was nice but absent and the old man manger was more interested in taking to a table than making sure we had silverware to eat our meals. Hard pass read more

This was my first time at this restaurant, and my experience was great! I went with my family, so we were a pretty large party, but the service and food were all great. Our server Pat was very friendly and helpful, and I would definitely come here again! read more

The food was ok, nothing special. The service was scattered and we had to keep flagging down our waiter and bus boy.

Mexican food with a stylish twist. I was amazed when I walked into this spacious venue. The tables and chairs are substantial. The food is very clean. The food doesn't feel like your regular Americanized Mexican food. It's Americanized with a stylish twist. I enjoyed my meal and my time at Marinitas. There are always plenty of people there but the spacious inside gives privacy to diners. When I first walked in I thought it looked like a lodge at Jackson Hole, Wyoming. There are animal antlers hanging from the walls and a very nice fireplace. I think you'll enjoy your dinner at Marinas. read more

The ambiance is great, service good. Food is about as bland as it comes for Mexican. Good for Happy Hour.

I went back and tried this place again and was very much hopeful when I walked in around 6:30 Saturday night. I only got 2 steps before I noticed the entrance was blocked by a waitress talking with some people she knew that had come in. This is fine, except it was blocking several people from the hostess stand and me from making my way to the bar. As soon as I sat down the bartender, Miguel, asked me "What do you want?". I asked for a menu. He came back a few minutes later and took my order. That was the last time I had contact with him until I laid my credit card out in front of me to pay. No water was ever brought and I wasn't able to flag him down to ask. Also the chips are still $7.95 so I passed and had a chip-less meal. I had the house margarita for $8.50 and it was pretty good, although I was surprised to hear the bartender tell another patron that they don't do blended drinks. I also had the steak taco for $5.99. When the bar-back brought it out I was surprised at how small it was and I wish I could tell you how it tasted but I'm afraid that four small bites is not enough to accurately taste anything. I can say that the guacamole that made up most of my taco was delicious. Maybe my experience would have been more enjoyable if I had the other bartender in my section. I don't know his name but he has a goatee and is always friendly. He asks his patrons how their food is and even busts their plates. I can tell he is a professional by the way he just smiles and nods when the other servers come up to talk smack about their tables. Please hire more people like him. read more

Marinitas - Steak Taco - Latin American Near Me - San Anselmo, California

Quick take: The food was OK, but not remarkable. The service was wonderful. The decor was the best part. The decor of this place is what pushed my rating from 3 to 4 stars. My supremo margarita cost $12 and was served in a short glass that was 95% ice. Major ripoff. They claimed to use housemade sour mix in their margaritas and this tasted like it was probably true. Still. I cannot believe how much that minuscule cocktail cost. The guac was off -- too much salt and lime, I think? The chips were good. The salsas were also kind of meh. The red one was good, but the green one tasted vinegary, which was odd. My vegetarian enchiladas weren't very hot and were topped with an alleged green mole sauce. I say alleged because there was nothing mole about it. (I'm not a mole expert, but I know more than the average joe. How do you even make a green mole?) The waitress even said it the mole sauce had cocoa in it, as moles do, but she said you hardly taste the cocoa. Hardly? I would say you couldn't taste it because it is not there! It was more of a green enchilada sauce or salsa verde. Do they just use the word "mole" on their menu because they thought it made the dish sound fancier? What a letdown. My husband got the bistec argentina. It wasn't overcooked, which was nice. It was also plated beautifully and portioned appropriately (i.e., not gigantic). The kids split a cheese quesadilla. I took a bite and found the quality of the cheese to be pretty decent. This place has a Michelin Bib Gourmand award and I have to say, the award appears to have factored in decor more than necessary because I don't think the food is quite there. I would give this place another shot though. The vegetarian plate certainly looked fabulous in other people's Yelp photos, so maybe that's the route to take. Oh, and skip the guac and margaritas. read more

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I have been going to Marinitas since they opened. It has steadily been going downhill but I still kept giving it another try. The food is very inconsistent. Today I had an issue w/ a manager. He was extremely rude to me in front of other customers. Totally inappropriate! I will not be returning. read more

Waiter is rude. Complained about a 15% tip when he was lucky to get that. He ruined a good evening. Obnoxious. 6 people who will never be back. read more

My friends and I had a birthday dinner scheduled at marinitas. Marinitas called me 30 minutes before the dinner to say the restaurant was closed for a private party & they wouldn't be able to accommodate us. They were very matter of fact, never apologized. I explained to them I had co formed the reservation the day before, they passed the blame the lady I spoke to one the phone. Luckily Flores, in Corte Madera, was able to take us. We had a great dinner. My friends and I will not be eating at Marinitas or Insalatas anymore. read more

Waited over 20 minutes at 6.45. Fairly busy but not packed by any means . No one came to take our order for anything or acknowledge our presence except for friendly hostess who brought us to our table. Waited and finally got floor manager attention and asked for water. He brought water but never saw a server. Left without eating and will never return. Understand staffing challenges today, however, this was unacceptable. read more

Nice setting- ok food- my Chile Releno was very different than most and served warm- not hot. The Guacamole was tasty and plenty of thin warm chips. Nice service and strong cocktails. Entrees were average . Ended with a special dessert: warm apple and banana empanada with cinnamon ice cream- the best part of our dinner. Might return. read more

Always a great vibe. Excellent food and fresh, well made margaritas. We have been coming for years. It's my go to when I want high quality Mexican food. read more

Our first time there tonight and it was pretty darn tasty. I ordered the cod tacos and the fish was cooked perfectly-crispy pan flashed fried and moist and delicious with a kick of heat from their Tabasco cream sauce. We also nibbled at their ceviche trio, I think the best of the three was the tuna. Their guacamole could be more than it is, I felt like it was a bit like store bought-nothing amazing about it. Good chips though. One of my favorite things about my personal experience was the hibiscus tea-really good here, not too sweet. I am taking away 1 star for the inevitable Marinite crowd, while smacking on a cocktail at the bar some other patrons were very greedy and rude with the chair that my hubby was sitting in but they quickly tried to take it when he got up to stretch. Not quite the restaurant's fault, but the crowd is part of the experience. read more

This is our tenth time dining at Marinitas. The continual draw is Erick. Attentive, personable, and professional. He knows when to assist and when to let people enjoy their meal. Recommendations were spot on. read more

Caipirinha = Brazilian liquid heaven. It's hard to make and easy to mess up. Flavor-wise it's a cousin to the mojito. Anyway, the night we went they made them to perfection. I recommend them with a couple of appetizers, the main dishes we had were only ok and expensive. The atmosphere is a bit dark lodge-y with interesting kitsch things all around, the service was pleasant, and it's in a very walkable part of San Anselmo. Maybe drinks here and a restaurant nearby? It's up to you but we had a blast. read more

One word: YUM. We have been to Marinitas twice this week, i had the same thing both times, the Enchiladas de Pollo. They are smokey, cheesy, and absolutely delicious. I'm trying to figure out how to get back there for another visit before we leave town again. read more

Terrible service and the food has really gone down hill . Servers just sat eating in the back and didn't acknowledge us at all. I finally went up to the bar to order drinks and then a server ran up saying the kitchen wasn't open and was upset the hostess had not told us this. I understood this and was only ordering drinks . He then hurriedly ordered our drinks looking annoyed and then ignored us again for half an hour . This has happened the last two visits . Used to be a favorite spot but it smells moldy and looks dirty as well. We Won't be coming anymore . read more

I love Marinitas. The queso fundido is my favorite appetizer and the carne asada tacos are a must. It all goes well with their Margaritas

A friend and I met for lunch around 1pm on a Saturday, and the place was empty. We were seated next to the fireplace so it was nice and toasty. The service was friendly, and efficient. A basket of warm tortilla chips, and two small bowls of salsa were delivered to our table immediately along with glasses of water (we asked for water.). My friend ordered a couple shots of tequila since they have a pretty nice list. They were both tasty, and smooth going down. She ordered the Plato Vegetariano which was a good portion of food. There were a lot of different grilled vegetables, and fungi atop a bed of mixed grains. It was very tasty. I especially liked the grilled hen of the woods mushrooms. I ordered the Peruvian ceviche. It was a small portion served in a cocktail glass with lettuce at the bottom. The salmon was well seasoned, and tasty. I asked for more chips since this was my meal, not an appetizer. I also ordered the churros. They were not really crispy on the outside, and the inside was soggy, and doughy. They were served with a tasty warm chocolate/caramel( cajeta ). I only ate a couple churros. I sent my coffee back because it was lukewarm (about 100 degrees F). The second cup I received was only slightly warmer but I figured I would be finished with my churros before they brought another cup. I don't like my coffee scalding hot but I do want it steaming (160 degrees F is nice). There is street parking, and small public parking lots around the area - all metered. I overstayed my 2 hour limit. I'm waiting to see if I get a parking ticket in the mail. read more

Haven't been here in several years and not much has changed except that they do not have any happy hour offerings and their Yelp page needs to reflect that. It's good and the drinks are good ( though small and very expensive) read more

Best chips and salsa. Amazing salads. Friendly service. Super comfortable interiors. This business is owner operated and you can tell. The food is super consistent and the cocktails are always on point. Make sure you ask for the house hot sauce. Also the steak tacos are perfect. Keep up the good work guys!!!! read more

Delicious food and great service. I can't stop thinking about the tasty chips and salsa and delicious margarita.

My Points Index {100}: Authenticity 40% Food 30% Service 10% Price 10% Ambient 5% Cleanliness 5% Authenticity 2.5/5 Food 3.5/5 Service 3.5/5 Price 2/5 Ambient 3.5/5 Cleanliness 3/5 59 points read more

I was introduced to this place so I Only been here twice, once before COVID and everything was amazing. The food, drinks, service. It was a very good experience and I could wait to return, then COVID happened. We finally made it back out this way to do a hike and had to stop here for dinner. I got the shrimp tacos and will be craving them until I return. I also got their mango margarita and let me tell you it was the BEST one I have ever had! And the staff that was there were so nice and really great customer service. Hands down my favorite restaurant. read more

Marinitas - Shrimp Tacos - Latin American Near Me - San Anselmo, California

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Came here because my reservation at Madcap! They recommend us to come here! Service was flawless even though they knew we weren't dining with them! We were asked 3 times if we wanted a refill on chips! Unfortunately we were having dinner somewhere else so I didn't want to get full! Will come here again just to eat dinner! read more

**Food is a strong 4. Delicious and authentic. (Review below)The three stars is for the hostesses. All members of our party who arrived all within 10 minutes of each ALL mentioned how rude they both were without any conversation prior. This is for Sat 8/21 at 5:30. We had a reservation but for some reason the thought of having a high chair added set the two girls off their game. Both girls wouldn't look at you, answer any questions when asked ("we might have a child who might need a high chair")being one of them. They were actually upset they had to find the chair and figure out how to add it to our table. Not rocket science here. It was like they were on some kind of trance - I even said thank you and they wouldn't acknowledge me-I don't know, but the front door speaks volumes about the atmosphere you want portrayed for your establishment , you might want to administer additional training here. I realize with today's young adults help is hard to find , but this was just rude. The food was delicious. The fresh corn was out of this world and the chicken enchiladas were fresh and flavorful. We will definitely come back because of the food. Our waitress was fantastic. (Forget her name - I am so sorry) and the drinks were delish - margaritas were off the hook!! Spicy read more

Marinitas - Latin American Near Me - San Anselmo, California

This is a great restaurant! Don't assume it's simply Mexican, because it isn't. It is unique. And even though sometimes at a table it can feel understaffed, the people who work behind the bar are fabulous. I could name names... Jason, Asia (sp?), And not always behind the bar, Sawyer... not to mention Victor, who often brings the food here and a number of other restaurants in the county! Only complaint is why are the specials of each day gone? Specifically, PLEASE bring back Cochinita Pibil ! PLEASE. Sure, the carnitas are a close second but really? Why get rid it why get rid of that?!? I sure hope they read this, the Marinitas "powers that be." Would love to see that former menu item restored. read more

Some of the best crispy tacos I've ever had. Has potato's and shredded chicken. There's also a veggie option. I work nearby and always order to go. They're always really fast. I usually call in and pick up about 15 mins later. Very friendly staff! The restaurant looks really nice on the inside if you have the time to dine in. read more

Ok I really wanted to like this place but, after reading the menu I was completely bummed to find out all the dishes I wanted wouldn't be available till after 5?!! It was 3! We drove a long way! my husband really wanted to try the place, he orders a beer that was good I took the waitress suggestion and tried the mango margarita house special... no bueno!! It was small for 10.95!! we ordered appetizers he had fried quesadillas delish, I ordered a chili relleno, now I'm a connisuer and this was the best one I have ever had... So you gotta wonder why 3 stars? Seriously a Mexican restaurant you have to pay extra for rice and beans?!!! ding ding ding No bueno... your open but I can't order what I want till after 5?!! ding!!! But the food was good and the beautiful historical decor was lovely and our service was fine!! read more

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My wife and I ordered 5 dishes and sent 4 back uneaten. The chili relleno had no cheese, no batter; it tasted like an under cooked green chili with some nuts. The duck tacos were made of duck that had been sliced into tiny strings; dry and tasteless. The mole steak enchiladas had no taste of mole; and the meat, whatever it was had been sliced into tiny strips....tasteless except for an obnoxious spice which was also on my wife's chicken enchiladas; these were horrible. Other than these issues the water was fine and the guacamole was ok. If you want a great Mexican meal without the ambience try Taqueria San Jose in San Rafael. It is the real deal in a dive. read more

All I can say is wow was I disappointed. I saw a picture of the chicken enchiladas and thought they'd be good. Man was I wrong. They are covered in enchilada sauce they sell at Safeway for a couple bucks. Nothing authentic about this place or at least this meal. Chips were over salted. Terrible meal, especially for the price! read more

Best Mexican in Marin, period. Ambience, location, service and top notch food - that Chile Relleno keeps me coming back!!!

Just left Marinitas after having the best margarita ever. I had forgotten how flavorful this drink can be. They make their drink with fresh squeezed lime juice and it really makes a difference. I will definitely return soon read more