After making their mark on Sonoma County’s food-truck circuit with three bright red taco trucks, brothers Omar and Ivan Galvan opened their first brick-and-mortar restaurant in Cotati in early January. Galvan’s Beer Garden quickly settled into the role as game-day hangout, with multiple large-screen TVs and a menu designed for lingering, anchored by the popular quesabirria and fully loaded carne asada fries.

With March Madness approaching, the outdoor-only beer garden is leaning into its home-away-from-home appeal. Communal picnic tables, cozy high-tops and bar seating create an easygoing setup for fans who want a clear view of the screens and quick access to the drinks. The beer list is largely on tap, with local standouts like Parliament and Cooperage, alongside a small selection of wine and nonalcoholic options for the less-hoppy crowd.

Housed in the former Jaded Toad space, the beer garden is family-friendly and hosts a Monday-night cornhole league, with additional programming planned.

The family-friendly Galvan’s Beer Garden Friday, Feb. 7, 2026 with cornhole and a area for the kids in Cotati. (John Burgess/The Press Democrat)The family-friendly Galvan’s Beer Garden Friday, Feb. 7, 2026 with cornhole and a area for the kids in Cotati. (John Burgess/The Press Democrat)
Burrito from Galvan's Beer Garden in CotatiSuper Burrito with a side of consume from Galvan’s Beer Garden Friday, Feb. 7, 2026 in Cotati. (John Burgess/The Press Democrat)

The Galvans purchased their first food truck in 2020, rolling up to breweries like Shady Oak, Old Caz, Cooperage and HenHouse. The menu blended Mexican staples — burritos, street tacos — with crowd-pleasers like grilled cheese for the little ones. Frequent social media updates and easy rapport with regulars helped build a loyal following.

The family friendly Galvan’s Beer Garden also allow dogs Friday, Feb. 7, 2026 in Cotati. (John Burgess/The Press Democrat)The family friendly Galvan’s Beer Garden also allow dogs Friday, Feb. 7, 2026 in Cotati. (John Burgess/The Press Democrat)
Kitchen at Galvan's Beer Garden in CotatiGalvan’s Beer Garden brings the same great food served at Galvan’s Eatery taco trucks to the bigger kitchen Friday, Feb. 7, 2026 in Cotati. (John Burgess/The Press Democrat)

As the transition from truck to fixed location continues, the kitchen is still settling in. On a recent visit, the al pastor taco and quesabirria didn’t quite hit the same high notes I remember from the trucks, but the foundation is there and the care behind the cooking comes through. I’ll be back, game day or not.

Open 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday. 500 E. Cotati Ave., Cotati. instagram.com/galvanseatery

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