About Insalata's
Insalata's - San Anselmo's beloved Mediterranean institution, where 28 years of family leadership, community warmth, and Michelin Bib Gourmand consistency tell the full story.
There are restaurants that become institutions. Not because they chase trends, but because they find something true and hold it year after year with consistency and conviction. Insalata's, right on Sir Francis Drake Boulevard in the heart of San Anselmo, is exactly that kind of place. Moving into its 28th year as a community-minded restaurant, it remains one of Marin County's most genuinely beloved dining rooms.
Insalata's has received Michelin Bib Gourmand recognition year after year for nearly two decades - a rare run that reflects sustained quality, value, and consistency under real scrutiny.
A Restaurant Named for a Father, Built by a Daughter
Chef Heidi Krahling named the restaurant in honor of her late father, Italo Insalata. That origin still shapes the experience today: this is a place rooted in family values, hospitality, and care. As the next generation of the Krahling family steps into co-management, Insalata's continues to feel both deeply personal and remarkably consistent.
The Setting - Mediterranean Color in Downtown San Anselmo
From the recognizable warm stucco exterior to the inviting dining rooms inside, Insalata's carries a Mediterranean spirit throughout. The interiors balance elegance with comfort, and the leafy patio remains one of the most enjoyable outdoor dining settings in Ross Valley.
The Food - Mediterranean Abundance with Middle Eastern Influence
The menu has long focused on lush Mediterranean cooking supported by gracious service and a warm atmosphere. Dishes draw from across the Mediterranean basin with influence from the Middle East and North Africa, unified by fresh seasonal ingredients and a kitchen that prioritizes flavor, balance, and consistency.
Hours: Saturday 11:30 AM-2:30 PM, 5:00 PM-9:00 PM Sunday 11:00 AM-2:30 PM, 5:00 PM-8:30 PM Monday 11:30 AM-2:30 PM, 5:00 PM-8:30 PM Tuesday 11:30 AM-2:30 PM, 5:00 PM-8:30 PM Wednesday 11:30 AM-2:30 PM, 5:00 PM-8:30 PM Thursday 11:30 AM-2:30 PM, 5:00 PM-8:30 PM Friday 11:30 AM-2:30 PM, 5:00 PM-9:00 PM
Pro Tip: Book ahead for weekend dinner and ask for patio seating when weather is good. Start with a spread of Mediterranean small plates and let the table share across courses - it is the best way to experience the range that regulars love.