Review

Tucked away on the corner of Snyder Lane and E. Cotati Avenue, a family owned bar and convenience store named Ronnie’s Bar & Grill stands strong.

Owner Ronnie Rao opened the shop in 2015 and now runs the place with help from his family.

 With his brother in charge of the kitchen and his daughter helping as well, this is a wholesome family business.

Ronnie’s prides itself with being a Seawolf friendly business,offering a 10 percent discount to Sonoma State University students.

While the front of the restaurant may trick you into thinking it is simply a liquor store, look a little closer and you will find the wonderful food toward the back.

When walking into Ronnie’s, you are first greeted by the smell of homemade French fries. First looking at the menu, you may be conflicted by the many good choices there are.

 From traditional deli sandwiches to decked out burgers, wine and beer, Ronnie’s has it all. 

One of the customer favorites is the delicious loaded fries. The loaded fries ($8.99), are smothered in cheese, bacon, onions, jalapenos, “secret sauce”, and sour cream never disappoint. Fresh and made to order, the fries have the perfect crisp on the outside while remaining soft inside. 

“The loaded fries are heavenly and I love the chicken wings,” said Sonoma State junior Brooke Motl.

Whether your meal is enjoyed with a drink from the front shop or a pint of beer, you can always expect the best quality food. 

Senior Rachel Shirhall said her order of sliders was “perfectly tender and made exactly to my order.” 

The food at Ronnie’s is made with love and it seems very clear that the kitchen staff is proud of the food they produce.

If you are looking for more than just a meal or maybe just a drink at the end of the day, Ronnie’s also serves wine and beer.

Ronnie’s offers $3 beers on Mondays and Tuesdays. 

The bar, located in the back of the convenience store has televisions that show basketball, football, and other big sports games.

There are 24 beers on tap that are served by Rao himself, who offers discounts and great conversation. 

He always finds time to go around the restaurant and visit with each and every customer. 

For people on the run, Ronnie’s also offers everything to go. Deli sandwiches and fries are a popular option for people in a rush and they are always made to order. 

In the past, Ronnie’s used to serve premade meals and grab-and-go options, but their front refrigerator recently shut down. 

A new refrigerator would really help the business, but money is a bit tight. Despite this, Rao addresses the situation with optimism and determination. 

“It’s been difficult, but we’re getting by,” he said. He seems to try and see the best in dull situations and no matter what, he stays positive.

 Hoping for the best in the future, Rao hopes to get the word out about his little dive. “Students don’t tend to see us or come in often,” 

With an amazing atmosphere and family feel, Ronnie’s is a great place to relax and get some drinks. 

Thanks to the $3 pints of beer and Seawolf discount, students are always welcome.

Whether you stop in to grab something from the convenience store, or you sit at the bar and chat with the locals, your time at Ronnie’s promises to be enjoyable and well spent.