One day in 1972, Roga Pantoja told his wife, "Elena, you cook muy bien. Lets start a business." They opened the first Las Guitarras on the corner of Mission and 23rd Street in San Francisco. "Elena made the best sopita, chicken soup," Roga recalls. "We got 100 customers a day, just for the soup." Over the years Roga and Elena Pantoja had restaurants in several San Francisco and Marin County locations. It was at these Marin locations that Elenas son, Dan Garcia, began his career in the restaurant business. In the 1970s Dan started as a dishwasher, and worked his way up to manager of the Novato restaurant.

In 1994, with guidance from Roga and Elena, Dan and his wife, Janet, opened Las Guitarras de Cotati. From the beginning the Las Guitarras in Cotati was a hit. It already had a reputation from its predecessors as being a restaurant that served fresh and authentic Mexican and Seafood cuisine. But what set it apart from other eateries was the charm and family-friendly atmosphere Dan brought to his restaurant. Dans passion for life, dedication to helping those in need, and selflessness, made him a favorite with customers. His special quality of listening and sharing with others made all that came to Las Guitarras feel welcomed and appreciated. For over 13 years Dan oversaw the daily operations of Las Guitarras. But his greatest pleasure was standing behind the bar talking, laughing, and joking with customers. However, in April of 2007 Dan was diagnosed with cancer. Dans fighting spirit kept him going for many months. He even directed his employees from his hospital bed on Cinco de Mayo. On May 22, 2008 Dan Garcia passed away. He left behind countless friends, loved ones, and a business, Las Guitarras de Cotati, that he was so proud of. But his dedicated and loyal employees, family members, wife and daughter are keeping alive a restaurant that brought happiness to many, great food to all, and lots of love to a little corner in Cotati.