Poggio, 777 Bridgeway (tel. 415/332-7771; www.poggiotrattoria.com), is an upscale-casual Italian place, with perfect-for-people-watching outdoor seating in the heart of Sausalito, across the street from the ferry dock. A few blocks away, Sushi Ran, 107 Caledonia St. (tel. 415/332-3620; www.sushiran.com), is one of the best (although shockingly priced) spots for sushi in the Bay Area. A funkier, cheaper option is Salsalito Taco Shop 1115 Bridgeway (tel. 415/331-5595; www.salsalitotacoshop.com), where the fish tacos and house-made chips are delicious. Bar Bocce, 1250 Bridgeway (tel. 415/331-0555; www.barbocce.com), the hippest spot on the waterfront, draws young crowds from San Francisco on nice days. As its name suggests, you can play bocce ball while sipping your drink (there’s not a full bar, but the sangria is yummy). With outdoor seating featuring cushioned benches wrapped around fire pits, and a tiny sandy beach for the kids a few feet away, this is the perfect place to relax and refresh. My all time favorite spot, however, is Le Garage (www.legaragebistro.com; tel. 415/332-5625), a marina-front French bistro with indoor and outdoor seating. The fresh, reliable fare is served up with a hearty side of atmosphere and relaxed tranquility. Don’t miss the grass-fed burger with perfect fries and aioli, mussels in white wine sauce, or the shrimp or lobster salad. Though off the beaten path, it’s an easy stroll from the ferry landing, and you can also drive and park in the restaurant’s designated parking lot.

A Picnic Lunch, Sausalito Style

Perhaps the only way to feed two people for around $20 on the Sausalito waterfront is by packing your own picnic and spreading out in the park next to the marina, but it’s a perfect spot. The best source for a la carte eats is the Mediterranean-style, family-owned Venice Gourmet Delicatessen at 625 Bridgeway (tel. 415/332-3544; www.venicegourmet.com; daily 9am–6pm), located right on the waterfront just south of the ferry landing, which has all the makings for a superb picnic, including wines, cheeses, fruits, prosciutto, salads, quiche, and huge, made-to-order sandwiches.

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.