Introduction

As someone who’s lived in Marin County for years, I’ve eaten more than my fair share of pizza from casual slices on the go to gourmet wood-fired pies. And let me tell you, finding the best pizza Marin isn’t easy. Why? Because we have a lot of great places. But through trial, taste-testing, and plenty of cheese, I’ve come to discover some true gems.

In this article, I’ll walk you through my honest experience exploring Marin’s pizza scene, what makes a spot stand out, and where I found slices that made me say, “Yep, this is the one.”

What Makes a Pizza Truly Great?

Before I dive into specific places, I think it’s important to answer one question: What makes a pizza “the best”?

For me, it’s about a few key things:

• A crust that’s just the right mix of crispy and chewy.
  
  

• Fresh toppings that don’t overpower each other.
  
  

• A good sauce-to-cheese ratio.
  
  

• And finally, the vibe—because a pizza place should feel warm and welcoming.
  
  

My Top Picks for the Best Pizza in Marin

After trying dozens of pizzerias across the country, these are the places that stuck with me. Each one has its flavor (literally and figuratively), but all of them earned a spot on my personal best-of list.

1. Pizzalina – San Anselmo

I had high hopes when I first walked into Pizzalina, and I wasn’t disappointed. Their pizzas are made in a wood-fired oven, and the crust is perfectly blistered. I ordered the Margherita, and it was a masterclass in simplicity. The mozzarella was creamy, the basil was fresh, and the sauce had just the right kick.

What I liked most? Their dough is fermented for 72 hours, which gives it a deep flavor you don’t find everywhere.

2. Flour Craft Pizza – Mill Valley

This one caught me off guard. I initially went for coffee (they’re also a bakery), but the smell of pizza coming from the back changed my mind fast. Their gluten-free crust was a surprise hit—even as someone who usually prefers regular dough.

The Mediterranean pizza with olives, goat cheese, and arugula was bursting with flavor. It felt both healthy and indulgent at the same time.

3. Red Boy Pizza – Novato

Red Boy Pizza has a nostalgic, old-school vibe, and honestly, that’s part of the charm. I grew up with this style of pizza—chewy crust, tangy sauce, and plenty of cheese.

Their pepperoni pizza took me back to family nights and birthday parties. If you're looking for comfort food-style pizza, this is your place.

4. Mulberry Street Pizzeria – San Rafael

This spot is all about New York-style slices, and as someone who loves folding a big, cheesy slice in half, Mulberry Street was a dream. The crust is thin but never soggy, and the sauce has that slight sweetness that balances out the cheese.

Bonus points for their garlic knots—they’re addictive.

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Hidden Gems Worth Mentioning

While the places above are my top choices, Marin has plenty of low-key gems that deserve some love too:

• Cafe Del Soul (Mill Valley): More health-focused, but their veggie pizza on a flatbread is fresh and filling.
  
  

• La Dolce Vita (San Rafael): A cozy spot with a Sicilian twist. Their deep-dish slices are rich and satisfying.
  
  

What I Learned on My Pizza Hunt

Here are a few things I realized during my search for the best pizza in Marin:

• Fresh ingredients matter more than anything else.
  
  

• Atmosphere counts. A friendly, relaxed place makes the pizza taste even better.
  
  

• Local favorites are often better than big names. Some of my best experiences came from small, independent spots.
  
  

• Everyone’s taste is different. What I love might be different from what you love—and that’s okay!
  
  

Tips for Finding Your Own Favorite

If you're new to Marin or just starting your pizza journey, here are a few tips:

1. Don’t judge a place by its exterior. Some of the best pizza joints look simple from the outside.
   
   

2. Try their classic Margherita first. It’s the best way to test their dough, sauce, and cheese combo.
   
   

3. Ask the locals. I found two amazing places just from chatting with people at farmers markets and parks.
   
   

Final Thoughts

Finding the best pizza in Marin wasn’t just about food—it was about discovering hidden corners of the county, meeting passionate pizza makers, and enjoying the little moments that come with a hot slice and good company.

Whether you like your pizza thin and crispy, deep and cheesy, or somewhere in between, Marin County has something for you. Just bring your appetite and maybe a few napkins!