Great Mixologist,still a friendly cool crowd.Everyone was having a great time and karaoke was flowing. Very clean bathroom and parking is ample around the back. read more

The Cortland - Absolute yummmy!! - Bars Near Me - Bay Shore, New York

A friend of mine knows the owner, I think his name is Joe, he knows a ton of Joes, lol. Sometimes we stop by. It's a very cute little bar, great ambiance. I had a mocktail and it was delicious! I got a citrus flavor! read more

Such a great spot, the Cortlands been a huge part of Bayshore and the new owners have revitalized an old charm! Bob behind the bar can whip a cocktail that will knock your socks off! Super fun spot and Grateful Dead kicking is always a plus!! read more

This has become our go-to little spot for a night out for drinks. Always a nice friendly bunch whenever we've gone.

Service was straight up bad. Bartenders were rude to customers, not only to our group. Male bartender thought he owned the place and at the end of the day, they are a fake New York City bar who tries to be cool but ends up having a bunch of freaks working there. Realistically, if you're looking for a nice dive bar with great food. Go to the Penny Pub instead. read more

Cute, little dive bar! Loved the vibes & the bartenders were great. Nice variety of music. On Mondays they have karaoke after 9:30pm too. read more

The Cortland - a potted plant with christmas lights - Bars Near Me - Bay Shore, New York

Let me help them out because there is karaoke here on Monday nights, although no place is it advertised. Not on Facebook, not in places that list local karaoke shows. So just as you should know, this IS a place where you can do karaoke. The drinks are okay, fair priced. But I ordered a specialty on tap; got one of them (it was delicious) then they were out of it when I ordered a second. The bartender suggested a Brooklyn lager instead and it was disgusting. Sorry I'm just not a regular beer guy. Anyway, there's no food here, which kind of sucks (especially because we were all hungry). read more

What a cool bar. We ended our pub crawl Saturday night here at The Cortland. Staff were very nice. With the exception of "Changing Times Bar", Bayshore is lucky to have such great spots all so close. Our group got such a kick from the coin operated mustache dispenser. read more

The Cortland is the perfect local low-key bar. I love their local selections on tap, their infused vodkas (the ones during the fall season are always incredible), and there's always unique cider options. Last time I had the Cloud City Opal Cider - It was dry with hints of orange and wood, I enjoyed it! They currently serve ramen and their famous grilled cheese. I REALLY hope they bring back the Jiffy Pop, that was always my favorite thing to order! They have art on the walls from local artists (I believe they used to sell it at one point? Not sure if that's still a thing) and there's games you can play like Connect 4! It's SUPER narrow so you can't fit too many people in there, but I've never had a horribly crowded experience. They play great music, plus they're always hosting events like trivia! read more

The Cortland - Bar and tap menu on 2/23/19 - Bars Near Me - Bay Shore, New York

9:30 on a Wednesday night strolling through Main Street in Bayshore just enjoying the night with coffee from the Milano Bean Cafe which is right across the street. They had just closed and me and my girlfriend saw a few seats outside The Cortland on the way back to our car so we decided to sit down for a few minutes to finish our coffee. It was kind of a chilly night and nobody was sitting out there. All of a sudden the Owner comes outside to tell us to get out of there if we weren't gonna come inside to buy a drink. I thought it was awful. I would never step foot into this place. read more

That guy szkluts fucks. 10/10 drinks. Best Negronis around town. The foods amazing!!!!!

We stumbled into The Cortland on a Monday night looking to have a nightcap somewhere. It was karaoke night which we did not know and we are so glad it was. Some awesome talent got up to sing and the crowd was just having a good time! The drinks was cold and the bartender Ryan was awesome! We will be back in here for more drinks and hopefully karaoke. Cheers! read more

I am beside myself, thinking of all the things to say about this bar, I've got so many awesome stories that start with the Cortland, what I'll do instead, is tell you the time my amazing day was capped off by Bobby and this wonderful bar; The first story I've ever had about the Cortland. The most telling experience for a first visit... I don't remember the year, but it was a late night back from the fire island ferries and the girl I met that night needed to find a ladies room, honestly we just ducked into the first place that was open, planning on peeing and ditching. Bobby was behind bar and instantly introduced himself, "welcome to the Cortland." The Cortland!? Oh wow I've heard about this place and I've been meaning to check it out, I said. Without hesitation, in true Bobby form, "bro, welcome, ever have horchata? Check this out! And try this and this" I just got this stuff in. This bartender lined shot after shot of horchata (also a first for me) and then hooked us up with his vodka infusions. We were drinking all night, and he charged us little to nothing and we had an absolute blast talking to him and the few people in the place that night. I quickly spread the word to anyone I could, he really knew what he was doing. This place was solid gold in the form of a whole in the wall sanctuary. I'd gone month after month, week after week, had some great times here, and it's been a very long time since I've been back, but lucky for me he opened another bar, south shore dive, more food, great cocktails, and the same dope events he'd throw at the Cortland! He's the mad genius speaking to my soul. Bobby is my spirit animal! At the Cortland he has a pumpkin everything event, he has movies and shows up on a projection screen in the alleyway, it's endless. Check this place out, check out south shore dive too. You won't be disappointed- read more

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I had to check this bar out after reading the rave reviews. This place is hype-worthy! 1) Awesome Business Model: Everything they serve has been produced in New York. Yay for Locavores! 2) Amazing Specials: Check in on foursquare and you've automatically earned yourself a free shot of Pinnacle Whipped Cream Vodka OR Jameson. **TIP: Turn that shot of Jameson into a Pickle Back. This is the only bar that I know of on Long Island that does a Pickle Back! 3) Phenomenal Service: The owners do their own barkeeping. They're super friendly and enthusiastic about their business, as they should be! They run a top-notch establishment, and they will HOOK YOU UP! 4) Unique Drinks: They make their own vodka infusions which change seasonally. The Butternut Squash, Vanilla & Cinnamon infusion was delicious- can't wait to try their Spring/Summer infusions! Oh yea and... Spiked Milkshakes! 5) Great Beer Selection: With so many options from New York breweries, it was easy to spot the people I didn't want to talk to. They were the ones drinking Bud Light. 6) Appetizing Bar Snacks: You won't find typical bar food here. (No wings, fries, nachos, etc.) They offer Hummus, Cheese & Toast Plates, Truffle Flatbread, and Jiffy Pop, which is popped right in front of you! SO tasty & SO much fun! 7) Reasonable Prices: Those are NOT your beer goggles playing tricks on you... your tab is actually that cheap. BOOM! read more

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Cool and unusual flavors of drinks, small intimate setting, sweet snacks, friendly bartenders... The Cortland, you are SPEAKING. MY. LANGUAGE. The hype is totally warranted here. Thanks Dan M. for showing me this place. After a night of interesting grub, why not stop by here for an even more interesting/awesome mixture of drinks? (Pun always intended.) I was immediately enticed by the small yet cozy atmosphere. Dim lighting, chalkboard menus, indie music playing... *sigh* I just love it. There's quite the selection here: craft beers, their famous Pickleback shots (which I unfort did not get to try since I was the driver that night, but will definitely make it a priority on my next visit), alcoholic milkshakes (only available in the fall/winter) and yes... the infused drinks. My eyes were instantly drawn to the Butternut Squash & Cinnamon drink with apple cider. That just sounds like heaven in a glass to me. While waiting for my drink, I happened to ask the bartender a few questions about these creative concoctions. I asked them how they came up with these flavor profiles. He (I'm sorry I forgot your name!) was so nice and took the time to give me a 101 on how they do it at the Cortland. As for the flavors... he said that he just thinks of foods that he likes and thinks "hey, why not put them in a drink?" That's enough convincing for me! I was sold. And well let me tell you... they certainly know how to do infusions here. That was about one of the best mixed drinks I've had in a while. I was also able to try the Hibiscus and Plum which was also stellar. I could easily see myself coming all the way to Bayshore just for these drinks. The Cortland is a nice getaway from the usual LI crowds and will definitely be back here sometime soon. The spiked shakes... I'm comin' for ya next time! read more

The Cortland - The gang :) - Bars Near Me - Bay Shore, New York

Great lowkey vibes and a very welcoming staff.

John was the best bartender ever. super humble, great conversation I've never been to a bar that I felt so comfortable. He is the OG bartender . we'll definitely return he made a great night ever better read more

bathrooms working = higher rating C'mon - don't send me to another bar to use a restroom ! read more

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Our go-to local spot in downtown bay shore. Love how they support local businesses and only serve ny-based beer and wine. Bobby rotates an assortment of beers on tap, as well as infused liquors with an interesting variety of flavors like basil and elderberry. Friendly staff They stay connected to the community by hosting daily trivia events, movie nights and next doors boulton center, local musicians and art exhibitions (which I happen to have participated in) Only downside is the size...it's extremely small and narrow, but it adds to the cozy ambiance. read more

Great ambiance, friendly staff. Delicious libations!!!! What more can you ask for from this quaint bar. Then add live music! If you're ever in downtown Bay Shore definitely visit The Cortland! read more

The Cortland - Bars Near Me - Bay Shore, New York

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After an evening of tapas and smiles at a uye, we all decided to head over to the Cortland to continue the conversation and laughs. Don't miss the various vodka infused specialty cocktails they make- definitely not to be missed! I had one served complete with a cinnamon stick that was to die for. Although the place is narrow, there is ample room for larger crowds toward the back where a couple of pub tables are located. Here is where a larger group of eight or ten can flow back and forth to chat with each other. A special place with great drinks and very reasonable prices. read more

The Cortland went from "Zero" to "My Favorite Bar" in 2.5 seconds. The place simply does everything right, and it is the perfect place for literally any occasion. The environment is welcoming, the atmosphere is spirited, the people (both the patrons, bartenders and owner) are superb. Not being the biggest bar in the world is one of it's charms. If fifteen people are here, it is packed. And that's what you want, because The Cortland attracts the kind of crowd you want to be around; folks that want to converse, meet others, listen to some great music on the jukebox or watch a ballgame - so why not do this in a perfectly intimate, clean and well-lit setting? Drinking an alcoholic beverage here is a pleasure, as you have a multitude of choices. From Craft Beers (most bottled, a few on draught), to LI wines, to Cortland's own specialty infusion cocktails, to the spiked milkshakes, as well as the stocked bar (replete with plenty of Jameson's for the bar's staple, the Pickleback), your choices are not limited! And the prices are so reasonable, it will make you wonder why you ever stepped foot into Nutty Irishman in the first place. There's finger food available, and not your typical bar food of chicken fingers, but rather a hummus plate, veggie platters, cheese plates, breads, and freakin Jiffy Pop (popped right in front of you at the bar on a portable burner) and the newest item, a gourmet burger (which I absolutely need to try ASAP). There's always daily events and specials, like the Tuesday Sloppy Spelling Bee (no explanation needed there), chocolate pairings, brewery events, live music, Sunday Funday, you name it! Or you can make your own event, just ask the friendly bartender to provide you with one of the games behind the bar, you can challenge your friends to a game of Guess Who? or Connect Four. The Cortland is such an easy place to enjoy, and this applies to everyone that walks in the door. So next time you're in Bay Shore, skip all the bullshit and head to where it's at... read more

I am so glad I found out this bar from a Yelp event. Ambiance/Decor - It is a mixture of a dim lit wine bar infused with Williamsburg hipster feel. There are very artsy pictures framed and hung on the walls which adds to a COOL factor to the place. I love reading cereal boxes when I indulge on my fav cereal so why not stare at nice pictures when I'm indulging in drinks. And of course other Yelpers lol. The space is narrow between the bar leading to the back area and even further back to the lavatories. If you order a martini you really need to be nimble, agile and sober until you get to your seat. The DRINKS - Man, I've never had so many infused drinks in my life. I was partly drawn by the name of some of these drinks but became even more intrigued when I tasted them. And now, all I think about is when am I going to try them again. *1) Fresh Cortland Apples & Chai Tea w/ Raspberry Cider - It has a strong and potent punch from initial sip and then smooths out and finishes with the Chai tea kick. I love this drink. It was VERY nicely made and for those who are lightweights 2 of these will get you nice so bang for your bucks as well. *2) Maple Bacon & Fresh Dates w/ Cream Soda - This tastes like pancakes. Okay, maybe like pancakes with maple syrup. It was very good and it made me want some flapjacks of 20. It is a bit on the sweeter side so if you bring a date, order her one of these. *3) Butternut Squash, Cinnamon, & Vanilla Bean w/ Apple Cider - Apple pie anyone? This drink tastes EXACTLY like a chilled apple pie. EFFIN delicious! 4) Black Grapes & Citra Hops w/ White Cranberry Juice - This was one of their more mild infusions. By mild I simply mean potency referring to alcohol. It was a smooth drink and something I'd drink towards the conclusion of the night. Maybe even a dessert drink. *5) Roasted Garlic & Beef Jerky w/ Bloody Mary - THIS DRINK ROCKED MY SOCKS OFF! I'm not usually a fan of Bloody Mary's as I've had a few that didn't sit well with me. BUT this one IS THE REAL DEAL! It had exactly the right amount of tomato juice and the right amount of vodka that blended really nicely. The garlic and the beef jerky had good medium notes as it made this drink a little spicier than normal which I LOVE. BRING ON THE HEAT! By far my favorite Bloody Mary I've had in a while. When you come here ORDER THIS. 6) Strawberry & Ginger w/ Champagne & Strawberries - This is a good drink. It is more of a girly infusion but I'd gladly drink it before or after dinner. This sits well with your ladies friends. 7) SPIKED SHAKES - I had the pleasure of trying both the Vanilla and Chocolate versions. Me, personally I prefer the Vanilla as it gave the Pinnacle Whipped Cream Vodka a good sweetness to tone out the kick from the booze. The chocolate was good but stick with vanilla or strawberry (didn't get to try but I can imagine the taste to be more of my liking as well). Service - For a small bar with 2 bartenders (1 who was the owner as well) it was upbeat and quick. I never felt that I waited a long time ordering my drinks. Service like this can't be bought. At one point a drunk Yelper spilled his/her drink resulting in smashed glass on the floor. Bobby, the owner quickly went to get the broom and dustpan and cleaned it up himself. When I saw this the first thing I thought was "why isn't more bar owners proactive like this". I can easily imagined a similar situation where the boss might call on his/her staff to do it for them but this earned an extra star in my book having worked in the hospitality business myself. Be sure to say hi to Kristin (your lovely bartender) and Bobby (the owner) when you do visit. Let's be real, you got to experience these infusions for yourself. If you haven't tried this bar, you're missing out. I'm not kidding. read more

I'm quite remiss in writing this review on the Cortland in Bay Shore. It was originally introduced to me by fellow multi-year Elite Yelper, Doug G., who has been a regular at the Cortland for several years. If he was paid $5 for every person he introduced to Bobby and the Cortland, he'd be ready to retire in a few weeks. I'm serious. The Cortland literally does "Everything Right" as Doug G. says it in his review. These guys feature local beers, several house made infused liqueurs, a really fun local and simple ambience, true love and passion for everything they serve from their Jiffy Pop popcorn, house snacks and/or food that they partner up with a local restaurant (Tellulah's) which features AMAZING food (see my review). The only negative thing I have to say about the Cortland is that I wish it was bigger! It is such an amazing place that it has gotten really popular, which can get very busy at times and you won't have a place to sit or stand. These are luxury problems and good problems to have, if you're Bobby @ the Cortland! :) Perhaps I have one other negative thing to write - I wish it wasn't so far from where I lived!!! Again, luxury problem :) And here's the summary...it's become one of my absolute favorite bars and they better keep up the good work (which I'm sure they'll have no problem doing as long as Bobby is around...) because we really love you, the Cortland! THIS has been a review by Gaurav read more

Been to this bar a handful of times. Always a great atmosphere and a great beer selection on tap and in bottles. A little older feel to some of the bars in the area which is nice if your not 22 and not into the dj bar scene that you can get on this strip. Prices are reasonable and staff is attentive and friendly. read more

Mixologists dream. Welcome to an understated, warm, and friendly bar where the infused vodkas are flowing and the bartenders actually know the menu! Incredible apple pie drink tasted like you we digging into the middle of a pie after thanksgiving dinner...yes it was that good! Beer selection is meticulously selected and very impressive. Definitely try the ommegang wheat beer from upstate in a belgium style craft...gorgeous color. Loved how knowledgeable the bar staff was about everything. Thank you yelp elite squad for bringing this cocktail oasis to our attention! read more

The Cortland - Chocolate shake! - Bars Near Me - Bay Shore, New York

I went into the Cortland with high hopes... and I left underwhelmed. The bar itself is nice, I like the small, homey vibe it has but the beer menu was pretty limited and the food menu may as well be non-existent. Now, I know what you're going to say - they're a locavore bar. My response? Considering the plethora of NYS breweries they have to fill their menu with, its pretty anemic. As for the food menu... NYS is a cornucopia of amazing food... especially Long Island and the Hudson Valley. I could have forgiven the lack of anything besides bad party food if they had just let me order takeout to be delivered in the bar. But they didn't. So weird for a place that doesn't serve real food... at least in my world. I'll try this place again in the winter. It seems like it could be a really cozy... but I'm not holding out hope. read more

I heard a lot of good things about this place, so I tried it. At first didn't like it, but I figured it might have been a fluke, so my friends and I went a few more times. To be fair the bar is sometimes fun, and sometimes has a questionable crowd. But it's actually not a terrible place. The staff is friendly, and while it's not a place to get a glass of nice bourbon or a fine wine, they have a lot of local beers in bottles and rotate local beers on tap. Also, they do trivia on Tuesdays, which is by itself reason enough for me to go. read more

Infused vodkas, great craft beers list, low key young crowd... I'm not a bar person but I'm a fan of this one. While in grad school I would go with a good friend / local on Tuesday nights for trivia - SUCH FUN. I was informed tonight that they sadly have not had trivia for quite a while. I did a paint night here too which was also a good time. Bartenders are friendly and efficient. Strange decor which is nothing fancy but is oddly fitting. The Cortland has their own Spotify playlist *fun fact*. Great place for a drink during a night out! Definitely recommend. *Try the chai apple infused vodka* read more

The Cortland is one of my favorite bars on Long Island. It has a great mellow atmosphere and awesome drinks. The infusions are my favorite, especially the apple. The place has a very local feel with walls decorated with pieces by Long Island artists and all New York-made beer. I've introduced several friends to The Cortland and they all end up coming back. Chill place, nice staff and good drinks. read more

Bobby G. has created a safe haven for people who want to sit, relax, and enjoy their spirits. There have been a lot of things said about The Cortland being a hipster bar. I would say it's a bar for the average 20 or 30 something and the occasional boomer Boulton Center attendee. It's easy to spot someone who doesn't belong. They're the one being a dick. read more

Love this place!! The infusions are amazing and the bartender is such a character! He really did so much to find me the perfect drink! He made me something called the Apple Crisp, omgosh if you want the taste of winter in a glass, get this drink!! ask for nick, he's the best!! read more

The Cortland - Johnnie Walker on the rocks with some cherries! - Bars Near Me - Bay Shore, New York

The cortland you are truly a hidden gem in the heart of Bayshore. It is refreshing to go to a bar where the music is low enough that you can actually hear your friends. I came here on a Thursday night and there was a local artist singing, it was fantastic. Shout out to the wonderful staff who are super outgoing and friendly. Cheddar grill cheese with bacon smart move cortland! The infused liquor amazing!Too bad I cannot remember any of the drinks I had, but all were great. I will absolutely be coming back. read more

Went here with my girlfriend and I must say that this is a legitimate place!! Awesome snack menu and drink menu. They make their own infusions and their Butternut squash with vanilla and cinnamon infusion vodka with apple cider is a MUST try (it depends on the season)! Owners Bobby and Benny are awesome and so is their bartender Kristen! They're incredibly friendly and service is up to par. Definitely will be coming back and will be introducing this place to many many more people! read more

I'm an out-of-towner who was visiting relatives, and I was looking for a place to hang out -- preferably one that's unique to the area. This place was perfect! Unlike the generic Irish pubs or sports bars, The Cortland has its own character by representing local breweries and offering upscale bar snacks (I recommend the cheese plate!). The vodka infusions are such a neat idea and I wish I could have tried them all (two thumbs up for the Candy Cane Special). The staff and customers were friendly and fun - one of the bartenders in particular was super hot! Definitely a favorite! Nice to know that I have a go-to place when I make my way back to Long Island. read more

While brainstorming what new and exciting things to do at a bar I work at in another town, my friend started raving about vodka infusions she had tried at The Cortland. I had to taste these amazing infusions for myself so despite her reservations about not wanting to see an ex boyfriend that introduced her to the spot, we went in anyways (you know a place is amazing if you still go in knowing there's a good chance you will run into an ex). It was just as great as she raved about!! Craft Beers, Vodka Infusions, Delicious bar snacks atypical of anything you're used to, knowledgeable and friendly bartenders, enthusiastic and sociable (and good looking ;) haha) owners along with the cool black and white decor, laid back atmosphere, and good music make this bar automatically jump to the top of our list when wondering where to go out at night. Once we walked in, we were immediately greeted by smiling bartenders in the fairly packed out bar. They weren't stressing or grumpy or rushing us at all. When we stated we weren't sure what we wanted to drink - they gave us the bar menu, showed us the chalkboard with the daily deals, and gave a few suggestions of their favorites before kindly noting with an easy smile just to call their name when we were ready. As soon as I looked up to make my order, eye contact was made and they were in front of me smiling and ready to take my order. As a bartender, I can definitely appreciate a good work ethic and proper etiquette, both of which they definitely have here (I've been back a few times since). The first night we were there, the bartender hooked us up very well and when I thanked her and noted her graciousness - she said "Just come back" with a big smile. And we definitely did. The second time, one of the owners saw me asking about the Jiffy Pop and asked if I was ordering it - I said no, I had just ordered, but I was curious about what it was. Once he found out I had never had Jiffy Pop before, he said I had to eat it and made one for us on a burner right in front of us!!! - it was definitely the best popcorn I've ever had. He was extremely friendly and sociable and definitely set a fun mood for the clientele and staff. The alcoholic whipped cream was out of this world - I've never had anything like it. I am definitely going to try the Spiked Milkshakes next! The most recent time I was there was last night with a friend and the other owner behind the bar. It was definitely a great place for me to go after work - easygoing, good looking guy behind the bar and no creeper old men thinking buying me drinks is the key to my belt buckle. There was a lone drinker at the bar, but he was friendly, not creepy at all, and just relaxing. We all chatted easily and had plenty of good, funny conversation. I have definitely found my new spot!! You should try it out too. It will absolutely be worth the trip (I work in Farmingdale and live in Kings Park) and you'll be hooked!! read more

The only problem I have with The Cortland is its too far from my house! You walk in to the narrow bar and instantly feel comfortable. This just feels like a place you can come to time and again. The owner behind the bar is super friendly and you can tell that he loves what he's doing. Onto the drinks. The infusions are really tasty and the selection of small brewery beers were great. I'm just sorry that I didn't try one of their grilled cheese sandwiches. Oh well, an excuse to make the trip back! read more

I'm absolutely in LOVE with this bar. I've come here several nights, and each time I have loved it. The bartenders are very helpful, personable, and friendly. It's easy to strike up a conversation or have a good laugh with the bartenders. I adore the ambiance, dim/cozy (perfect combo), a chalkboard menu, great music. Keep in mind, the bar is narrow so it can get extremely packed, but in the summer there is outside seating. I don't particularly like that some of the guests have no social awareness and just stomp on your or hang on you. This place reminds me of Williamsburg BK, but less hipster. I see a lot of trendy, Bohemian people hanging out here. This only adds to the awesome vibe. I cannot get enough of the vodka infusions. Holy ****, they are absolutely the best. Every combination is amazingly perfect, and I can never pick which one I want! I like that they are on display and not just written on the menu. You can actually see each infusion in a decorative glass vat, with a sign on it indicating what the mix is. I love any of the ones which have involved bananas, vanilla, and/or basil! Just like candy...so sweet and delicious. I drink them entirely too fast, but I cant help it, they're so AMAZING. (This is how alcoholism starts, but it's cool.) The Moscow Mule is a great drink too. The Cortland also offers grilled cheeses too! I cant wait until the summer (when I have off) to sit at the bar during the day (when it's hopefully less crowded) while drinking and infused vodka and eating an amazing grilled cheese. One of my favorite Long Island bars for SURE. Good for date night or hanging with your bestie. read more

Enjoyed the drinks and the atmosphere. Really cool and chill place. My friend enjoyed her drink it had the bananas floating on top. I had a cider and tasted this amazing tequila. Thanks! read more

The apple brandy cocktail is the greatest thing that's ever been in my mouth and that includes boobs. Yes you read that right, the Cortland has a drink that's better than boobs. Also trivia night on Tuesday is the highlight of my week. read more