Golf Club Cocktails

Space for Spirit in the Culinary Scene Bravo Farms

Words by Natalie Caudle | Photos by Topograph

With its delectable offerings, inviting vibes, and commitment to the community, Bravo Farms has become a beloved gem for locals and visitors alike.

Owner Jonathan Van Ryn’s background in cheesemaking, coupled with his family’s acquisition of Traver’s Bravo Farms in 2006, transformed it from a small cheese-making operation into a beloved Central Valley destination with multiple locations. Traver’s flagship location set the tone with its combination of restaurant, cheese factory, gift shop, and quirky roadside attractions. Under Van Ryn's leadership, Bravo Farms expanded to Tulare, Kettleman City, and Visalia. His entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to quality have significantly contributed to Bravo Farms' enduring popularity.

Jonathan teamed up once again with longtime friend Derrick Brinkman of dlb Design to help design Bravo Farms' newest location in downtown Visalia. Derrick’s love for art and design, paired with his penchant for traveling, made him the perfect person to assist Jonathan, applying his artistic skills to create restaurants rich in aesthetics and ambiance. The Tulare location opened 15 years ago, and Jonathan is using the valuable insights he’s gained to perfect the art of restaurant culture.

Jonathan dives deep into the details with Derrick during brainstorming and space layout sessions, often involving the general contractor, Kyle Glen, from Square 1 Development, in this project. As a result, dining at Bravo tantalizes the taste buds and delights the senses. Not only is every dish carefully crafted with quality ingredients, from mouthwatering salads bursting with fresh flavors to savory smoked tri-tip sandwiches that melt in your mouth, but the full bar and ice cream/coffee counter add to the distinctive atmosphere, inviting diners to linger a little longer.

Kyle shares, "Collaborating with Jonathan and Derrick brought together diverse expertise. I was able to be detail-oriented while still thinking outside the box to help expand and execute the vision. The outcome speaks volumes. It's an excellent project, and I'm privileged to have been a part of it."

Venturing into new territory, they added the “Hay Loft”—an upstairs component that sets the restaurant apart from other Valley spaces. The upper level nods to big city restaurants and the atmosphere of an evening getaway. Eventually, it will hold a separate intimate restaurant featuring fire-cooked meats and a whiskey bar.

What makes the Tulare and Visalia Bravo Farms restaurants unique is their seamlessly blended interiors: rustic charm meets modern flair. The duo's creative vision, evident in every corner of the restaurants, draws inspiration from nature, emphasizing textures and layering to create a space that feels simultaneously cozy and cutting-edge—an environment where guests can relax, unwind, and savor the moment.

Derrick credits his extensive travels for much of his design inspiration. Though he finds a unique perspective in East Coast historic architecture, he is equally inspired by the trees of Yosemite, the ruggedness of the coastline, and the contrasting colors of wildflowers. “Inspiration is everywhere. We need to slow down and look around. God is the ultimate creator; we need to get creative with it. That's where design comes in, when we dig down deep,” comments Derrick.

When executing the decor of Bravo's downtown location, the goal was to create an environment rich in texture. Cowboy hats, subway tiles, olive trees, and painted stars on books add welcoming warmth. Using pops of color, warm lighting, and wood tones, Bravo Farms feels inviting. “It's good when someone walks in, and it reminds them of a house or a childhood memory,” says Derrick.

Still, Bravo Farms offers far more than great food and stunning design—it's a hub for connection. Jonathan's profound love for the local community shines through the restaurant, from doing business with local farmers and artisans to humbly serving community needs. “The hope for the restaurant is to become a central meeting place where Visalia can come to enjoy a casual and affordable meal in a welcoming, upscale environment. We are appreciative of the community’s support and are thankful we’ve been embraced as a name that well represents the Central Valley,” Jonathan shares.

The new downtown Visalia location promises to be a spirited addition to the city's culinary scene, offering the same exceptional dining experience and warm hospitality that Bravo Farms is known for. Bravo Farms isn't just a restaurant— it's a celebration of food, friendship, and the beauty of our local surroundings.