142. Pelican Inn

The Pelican Inn is a long-time favorite Marin destination for many people for many different reasons. It’s styled after a 16th century British west country inn, with seven romantic guest rooms, and very cozy bar and dining rooms. It’s known for some of the best British pub food in the region.

If you like high tea, and I like it very much, you’ll really enjoy the two services they offer, both of which require reservations and 48 hours notice, since their pastry chefs have to make the baked goods up fresh. The teas are served from 3:30 onwards and are substantial meals with three “tiers” (courses).

Another super popular option is ordering in the bar from their very British pub menu which features lots of local organic, seasonal produce (often sourced at neighbor Green Gulch Farms) and local organic meats and poultry. If it’s a beautiful weekend day (like today), lots of people take their food outside to eat on the lawn, which works great for families with kids because the kids can run around and make noise and no one cares. Lots of pints of beer are drunk on the lawn!

The only downside about the menu is that breakfast is only served to guests. But, then again, a weekend away at the Pelican Inn is a pretty nice getaway without any airport hassle!

One big caveat about getting there right now. Since the wash-out on Shoreline Highway near the Green Gulch Farms entrance, there is only one lane open while an extensive rebuilding road crew works to re-build the second lane. On a weekend day, allow an extra 10 minutes in each direction.

Where: 10 Pacific Way, Muir Beach, CA 94965 (map)

Hours: Vary by season and meals, check the website!

Phone: 415.383.6000 (meal and room reservations)

Pelican Inn website