Eight Ball

Stepping into Eight Ball feels like settling into a well-worn favorite sweater—comfortable, familiar, and just a little rough around the edges in the best way. Tucked on Charles Street in Cotati, this cocktail bar carries the easygoing spirit of a true neighborhood dive, where regulars and newcomers alike share stories over pool tables that have certainly seen their fair share of games. The pace here is unhurried, inviting you to linger and soak in the casual hum of laughter, clinking glasses, and the subtle shuffle of dart flights.

The atmosphere softly glows with a mix of vintage dive-bar charm and warm local character. Friendly bartenders—quick with a smile and an expertly crafted drink—anchor the scene, offering up everything from a cleverly refreshed twist on the classic Paloma to a cold, crisp IPA. Whether you’re in the mood for a spirited shot or a cider to savor, their offerings blend seamlessly into the convivial flow rather than commanding attention, enhancing the relaxed vibe without fuss.

Eight Ball’s charm grows from its human touches: free-roaming dogs settling in as comfortably as the people here, a small but inviting outdoor patio to catch a breath of fresh air, and a crowd that ranges from quiet neighborhood faces to lively groups in town for the night. The bar hosts friendly competition with pool and darts, giving the place an easy rhythm that shapes the nights into something memorable but never forced.

Here, drinks come with a side of connection—be it a quick joke from the bartender or the shared quiet moments between games. It’s not a place to rush through but a space to find pause, conversation, and a shot of local flavor in every sense.