Discover Madcap: San Anselmo's Culinary Gem Combining Innovation and Intimacy with a Michelin Touch.
Nestled in the charming town of San Anselmo, California, Madcap is an intimate restaurant that has captivated food enthusiasts with its innovative tasting menus and elegant atmosphere. Chef Ron Siegel, renowned for his work at The French Laundry, masterfully blends modern American, French, and Japanese culinary techniques to create a uniquely memorable dining experience. This Michelin-starred hotspot offers a seasonal 11-course tasting menu priced at $165, available Tuesday through Saturday, alongside an 8-course option at $140 from Tuesday through Thursday.
A Culinary Journey of Seasonality and Creativity
Madcap's menu is a celebration of seasonal ingredients and bold flavor combinations, drawing inspiration from the best of California and Japanese cuisine. Signature dishes include the delicately crafted Shrimp Hasami Satay, the rich and velvety Jidori Egg with Candy Cap Crumble, and the robust Dry Aged Flannery Ribeye. Each course is a carefully curated composition, designed to delight both the palate and the eye with stunning presentation and impeccable balance.
Ambiance and Service: Intimate Elegance Meets Attentiveness
Step into Madcap and be embraced by an upscale yet inviting setting. Featuring dark wood accents, Venetian plaster walls, and plush velvet banquettes, the restaurant exudes warmth and sophistication. Diners frequently praise the impeccable service, which enhances the overall experience by anticipating needs and sharing thoughtful insights about each dish. This intimate setting is perfect for special occasions, romantic dinners, or simply indulging in a culinary adventure with close friends.
Key Features and Amenities
- Seasonal tasting menus showcasing fresh, creative dishes inspired by California and Japan.
- Intimate and elegant dining environment with dark wood, Venetian plaster, and velvet seating.
- Reservations required through Tock with a deposit applied to the final bill; limited walk-ins on weeknights.
- Parking options include free street and lot parking , though availability is limited on busy weekend nights.
- Accepts multiple payment methods including credit, debit, and NFC payments.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Does Madcap accommodate dietary restrictions? Madcap cannot accommodate vegan or dairy-free diets but can manage other sensitivities if informed in advance.
- How can I make a reservation at Madcap? Book exclusively through Tock up to 30 days ahead, with a deposit required. Limited walk-ins may be possible on weeknights after 2pm.
- What is the parking situation at Madcap? Parking is limited, especially on Fridays and Saturdays; arriving early is recommended.
Community Sentiment
Madcap enjoys a stellar reputation for its imaginative and refined tasting menu, which seamlessly fuses the flavors of contemporary American, French, and Japanese cuisine. Guests consistently highlight the seasonal creativity of Chef Ron Siegel's dishes and the warm, attentive service that elevates the entire dining experience. The blend of an intimate ambiance with culinary artistry has made Madcap a beloved destination for special celebrations and food lovers seeking a memorable night out in Marin County.
The History Of Madcap Restaurant in San Anselmo, California.
Madcap, a culinary gem located at 198 Sir Francis Drake Blvd in San Anselmo, California, has quickly earned its place in the gastronomic landscape since its opening in 2017. Founded by the celebrated Chef Ron Siegel, known for his remarkable background that includes a culinary pilgrimage through illustrious kitchens like The French Laundry, Madcap represents a vibrant blend of California cuisine infused with Japanese flavors.
Madcap's Timeline
- 2017: Madcap opens in San Anselmo, California.
- 2019: Madcap receives its first Michelin star.
- 2021: Madcap is awarded a Michelin star for the second time.
Chef Siegel's culinary prowess was highlighted when he won Iron Chef in 1998, a title that speaks to his creativity and innovation in the kitchen. Under his leadership, Madcap has not only embraced a philosophy of sustainability with an emphasis on seasonal ingredients but also fostered a warm atmosphere that draws both locals and visitors alike. This restaurant is not just a place to eat; it's an experience that resonates with the vibrant culture of Marin County.
Madcap at a glance
Located at 198 Sir Francis Drake Blvd in San Anselmo, California, Madcap is an intimate restaurant that artfully blends seasonal California and Japanese cuisines. With a Michelin-starred recognition, it offers an innovative tasting menu that showcases the best of both culinary worlds. The ambiance is upscale yet unpretentious, making it a perfect spot for food enthusiasts seeking a memorable dining experience.
Pros
- Innovative tasting menu blending modern American, French, and Japanese cuisines.
- Michelin-starred recognition.
- Intimate and upscale atmosphere.
- Attentive and friendly service.
- Seasonal and creative dishes.
Cons
- Limited parking availability, especially on weekends.
- Unable to accommodate vegan or dairy-free diets.
- Reservations required, with limited walk-in availability.
Ideal for
Madcap is perfect for intimate dinners, special celebrations, and culinary explorations. Its unique blend of flavors and upscale setting makes it a great choice for foodies and those looking to impress on a date night.
Things to know before visiting
Reservations are highly recommended due to limited seating and high demand. Parking can be challenging, especially on weekends, so plan accordingly. The restaurant does not accommodate vegan or dairy-free diets, so check the menu beforehand.
Overall impression
Madcap stands out as a premier dining destination in San Anselmo, offering a unique culinary experience that marries seasonal ingredients with artistic presentation. With its intimate atmosphere and attentive service, it is well on its way to earning a Michelin star. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a gastronomic adventure, Madcap promises an unforgettable evening.
Experience Madcap in San Anselmo
Nestled in the charming town of San Anselmo, California, Madcap offers an intimate dining experience that masterfully blends seasonal California ingredients with the refined elegance of Japanese cuisine. This intimate venue is perfect for food enthusiasts seeking to explore creative flavor combinations served with impeccable service in a warm, elegant atmosphere.
Elevated Seasonal Menus to Savor Every Visit
Madcap specializes in offering thoughtfully curated tasting menus that highlight the best of each season’s bounty. Diners can choose between two exceptional tasting options, each designed to deliver a memorable gastronomic journey.
- 11-Course Tasting Menu: Offered Tuesday through Saturday, this seasonal menu priced at $165 is a luxurious multi-course experience showcasing creative and harmonious dishes that delight the palate.
- 8-Course Tasting Menu: Available Tuesday through Thursday at $140, this menu offers a more concise yet equally inspired selection of seasonal dishes that highlight the chef’s finesse and passion for detail.
What Makes Madcap Stand Out
Beyond the exquisite menus, Madcap boasts an intimate and unassuming atmosphere that guests describe as charming and elegant. Expect attentive service that elevates the dining experience, making it ideal for special occasions like birthdays or an intimate dinner.
The culinary team expertly pairs dishes with a curated selection of wine, beer, and sake, complementing the seasonal flavors and enhancing every bite. Guests also appreciate the free parking options and the convenience of curbside pickup and takeout services, making Madcap accessible whether you choose to dine in or enjoy gourmet meals at home.
Visitor Experience and Practical Information
- Location: 198 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, San Anselmo, CA 94960, nestled in Marin County's picturesque setting.
- Dine-In and Takeout: Enjoy the elegant dining room or opt for convenient curbside pickup. Note that delivery is not available.
- Beverages: A fine selection of wine, beer, sake, and coffee accompanies the meals, enhancing the culinary journey.
- Reservations and Accessibility: Reservations are recommended to secure your spot in this sought-after dining destination. The venue is not suitable for children and does not allow dogs.




