Had a spooky late night drink here with a group of friends last week and I'm so happy we were able to hit up this spot. I truly didn't know what to expect, and as a spooky babe myself, I was so impressed. I got the Lily Dale (I think) which was amazing and fun. My friends loved the tarot card readings - super cool vibes here and great service from the bartender! read more

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Was better when they had their own cook, but he was let go and replaced by a dubious hot dog machine and a ghost kitchen. Shame.

I have not tried food from this place, but the service and ambiance were wonderful. I love the occultish type decor.

Rochester, NY! New town, new adventures. I love looking for something original and, after a disappointing dinner, canceled reservations for a local "speakeasy" because the vibe just wasn't there. This left a hole in the evening and a need for some music in my life. Quick Google search brought me to The Spirit Room. Walking in the door, you are blasted with pure chutzpah! If a well loved mom-and-pop pub mated with a tarot parlor, you'd get this bar. There is zero pretense in this joint and the decor is a fascinating collection of Halloween fare, human oddities, and hobbyist witchcraft. In my single evening here, I enjoyed some outstanding live jazz, had a cool tarot reading, was referred to as "the Pioneer" by a sassy tender, and enjoyed a burlesque show! Seriously. If they had a roller coaster upstairs or a full blown haunted house set up in the basement, I would not have been surprised. The drinks were outstanding (both alcohol and not). I wish I came in hungry because the cheeseburgers looked ridiculously delicious (and well priced). The staff and owner were unbelievably welcoming. Even with me coming in by myself (this is a solo trip) and being a pretty quiet dude by nature. There is a definite regulars crowd vibe here, but I don't think it would take long to become part of that crowd. These a cool folks. In the end, this place made my night (especially after a meh trip to Dinosaur BBQ). If you're an Applebee's kind of person, you'll want to keep walking by...quickly, but if you're into a jump to the left (and then step to the right), take a walk on the wild side, and enter...The Spirit Room! read more

Out-of-towners had an amazing time in an eclectic establishment. From the staff to the patrons, beyond friendly. Thank you for a great time!! Karaoke rules! read more

The Spirit Room - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Rochester, New York

I have not been here since COVID, and decided to go two weeks ago. The new chef they have here is amazing! I ordered the jackfruit tacos and they might be the best thing I have ever eaten! read more

Loved my time here! Very cool decorations and I enjoyed sitting and listening to the live music. Cocktails were good, and the bar tenders were very nice and helpful with recommendations. Will definitely come back! read more

What I love about this place is the decorations, atmosphere and the shrimp tacos. The burger is alright. However, and it's a big HOWEVER, on every occasion I was there, I found the staff to be rude and even disrespectful, I don't understand it, that's the only reason why I might not go back there again. read more

A great place for the witchy girlies. Took my girls here once on a goth-bar-crawl, and this was the first stop. Great ambiance and interesting cocktail menu. The night I went there were tarot readings (although it cost $). They host a bunch of shows so be sure to check their events before going or half the bar closes and then there becomes limited seating! read more

The Spirit Room - The Lily Dale - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Rochester, New York

If you like to keep your senses entertained this is the pace for it. You could spend the whole day in here and still miss some of the interesting decor. I had a lily dale which was served in an ornate teacup with an eyeball floating in it. Sweetly sour. I followed it with a standard mai tai which is my go to. Jake is great. There was also the opportunity for karaoke and pool. read more

The Spirit Room - The Lily Dale cocktail - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Rochester, New York

I'm cajun born & bred. I spent the first 30 years of my life in Lafayette, Louisiana. You can take my word when I pass judgment on cajun food. . . This place made me feel things that I haven't felt since I left home. The atmosphere and clientele are exotic, spooky, and weird like New Orleans. The food is decadent, delicious, and prepared with love like in cajun country. The staff and owner are hospitable, accommodating, capable, and warm. It was everything I needed after moving up north. Specifically, you need to try the cocktails "dark shadows" and "the resurrectionist". The former is a dark rum concoction with ginger, lime, soda, and molasses bitters. The latter is a spicy blend of jalepeno tequila, habanero moonshine, and citrus fruit. Both are equal parts refreshing and potent. The Shrimp and Grits stole the show. It made me feel things. Great things. Familiar things. The flavors brought me back home to the bayou. I cannot stress enough how much you need to try it. . . If you can't afford a vacation to NOLA, try the spirit room. Louisiana loves you. read more

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My friends and I decided to give this place a try. I love the atmosphere and the esthetics of this place! There's a bunch of cool art work and figures on the wall. The drinks were great. I tried the daisy chain which was tasty but also nice and strong... just how I like it ;) The werewolf fries were unique and tasty. It was basically fries with fried chicken and sauce but it was delicious and worth the try. One thing that I didn't like was when I asked the bartender for their recommendations they proceeded to list the drinks on the cocktail specialty list rather than getting to know my preferences and giving me a solid recommendation. Other than that, I had a great night out with my girls.... P.s. there was someone there playing records which was awesome and really fun to listen too! Overall, had a great experience. Would definitely recommend. read more

The Spirit Room - Werewolf fries - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Rochester, New York

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I love this place. They do great live entertainment on the regular. I've had the tacos and the burn-your-face-off chicken. Both good. Downside: it gets SUPER crowded in there and I almost had to snatch a dude who settled in front of me during a show I got there early to see. No, sir. We aren't doing that, today. Also, the kitchen closes at 10 which is EXACTLY when i need the banana pudding. The drinks are strong. This bar supports diverse acts and art. I'm still tryna get myself together for a Poetry and Pie night. read more

My band recent played here. It's a unique space for those willing to DIY. The staff were supportive with accommodating our needs. Main bar area is in the room adjacent to the music area. read more

The Spirit Room - Stage in the music space - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Rochester, New York

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It's Halloween all year around! Very interesting place! I was here on a Wednesday night and they had a film going on a projector and a pianist playing some dark old school Halloween type music. Very cool. They have an extensive drink and food menu. I had a spicy tequila cocktail which was full of flavor. Staff and owner are very friendly and welcoming. Staff will ask for proof of vaccination and you must still wear a mask when walking around. This was surprising. read more

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Spirit Room is an awesome and very creative venue, created by a couple hailing from New Orleans and Appalachia. Their eclectic origins are evident in the decor and style, which offers an entrancing, occult experience that evokes some blend of gypsy culture with an old-time Southern drinking parlor. They also occasionally have live jazz music (a friend of a friend and his jazz quartet will be there on Tuesdays), and a nice drink menu (cocktails are about $11). I tried a Boulevardier (strong and smooth!) and hope next to sample the Sidecar. The food seems good from the menu descriptions, and is attentive to vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free diets. All in all, a really cool creative venue with a genuine artsy weird streak and not overly upscale, the likes of which Rochester doesn't have many of. Nox is the closest comparison I can think of, but Spirit Room feels a bit more unknown and exciting (maybe it's just the new business buzz) and is a cool offering to have on the West side. Kind of reminiscent of some spots you might see in Brooklyn, Philadelphia, Montreal, Toronto, and certainly New Orleans, but transplanted into a context that makes it all the more intriguing. Check it out - maybe follow it up with a visit to the nearby UUU Art Collective! read more

Definitely a place you have to check out if you're in Rochester!! Lots of Variety of Cocktails here. Interesting recipes. Bartenders are pretty damn awesome!!! Good recommendations and ensured everyone had a great time! Shows/Music happen at this amazing Gem too!! Great entertainment events! read more

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Most amazing bar in Rochester!! Recently took a friend visiting from Israel and it was the highlight of her trio $10 gets you a tarot card reading $1 gets a poem recited just for you! Bartender Jacob just won best in the city! He makes a mean drink full of fresh herbal overtones, fresh squeezed juices ... so delicious! Crazy cool interior. - feels like it's a old as Rochester itself but has only Been there two years. Be sure to check it out! read more

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Cool little out of the way bar that has live music and a tarot card reader. What's better than that.

My favorite bar in Rochester. It's the first place I saw Charming Disaster play live. Drinks are well-crafted and creative. The food is pretty good too. read more

The Spirit Room - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Rochester, New York

So happy to have this nice little addition to the neighborhood. There is something for everyone here whether it be a date or group hang. We've got light yet filling bites a la Southern influence, cocktails, mocktails and a few beers and wines. There's even tarot card readings for the more daring souls. It is haunted by good vibes, spirits and a book collection. I'm a big fan of the food. I had dinner and drinks with @ebbbster and we enjoyed everything. The salad, hot chicken and tacos were all wonderful. The shrimp tacos are bomb diggity and they're my favorite. Crispy shell, juicy shrimp, spicy and a perfect side of beans. read more

The Spirit Room - "In the moment" mocktail - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Rochester, New York

What a great addition to the neighborhood! I seldom venture into the area (except for the occasional visit to The Pizza Stop), but The Spirit Room will definitely bring me back. This paranormal themed cocktail bar has all the components necessary for a good time. The bar itself is cozy and full of various paranormal trinkets that will catch your wandering eye. There's so much to look at! There is even a tarot card reader on certain nights. The space is small, but not uncomfortable. As the popularity of this bar grows, it would be nice to see additional guest seating. However, one can argue that its coziness is charming. The service is friendly. A friendly woman greeted us at the door and checked our IDs, instead of the usual stone-faced burly bouncer that I am accustomed to at bars. The drinks are fantastic! I am happy to see quite a few drinks with an egg white component. My girlfriend and I ordered a Bitter Apparition and The Fox Sisters. Both are well-balanced and very drinkable. The attention to detail and drink garnishes are also impressive. The unpretentious atmosphere and diverse crowd make for a relaxed night out. The Spirit Room is off the beaten path, but I appreciate them adding life to an otherwise quiet neighborhood. I'll be back to try their food. Bravo! read more

The Spirit Room - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Rochester, New York

ICONIC. My family has been telling me about The Spirit Room for ages, and I finally made it there. I'll be coming back ASAP! Go see Ashley the tarot card reader! She's there every Friday night. Let me start off by saying this is such a delightful safe space for queer people. Nothing better than walking in and seeing little rainbow flags mixed in with the decorations throughout the bar. Speaking of decorations, you will never see another place quite like The Spirit Room. I don't want to spoil any surprises, so just go there yourself (or check out interior photos on their page if you can't wait!). Try to find the octopus I am perfectly content returning to a bar as beautiful as this one, but now add in delicious food and live music even during covid? Unmatched. We had the pork tacos, shrimp and grits, and fried broccoli tacos. Everything was amazing and I will literally dream about that banana pudding! There was a pianist and banjo player who came in and played ragtime covers of old and new music alike. The whole bar clapped for them, it was a really friendly atmosphere! You will love it here. read more

The Spirit Room - What's leftover from my Daisy Chain cocktail and the world's best Banana Pudding - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Rochester, New York

Love this place. Vibes are super cool, drinks are made perfectly, service is great. This is one of my favorite spots.

Really cool place with a great bartender. I loved the drink I got and it came in a neat little teacup. I didn't try any of the food, but the menu offered mocktails, which is always a huge plus for me as someone who drinks infrequently. I sat in a lovely corner and admired the decorations, books, and the interesting cocktails on the menu. Only downside was that it was quite drafty and I wish I didn't have to wear a coat while inside. I visited in January, though, so I doubt that it's always cold in there - it just happened to be 15 degrees outside, so whenever someone opened the door, it came all the way through the bar. read more

It's hard to review the Spirit Room because it's not a high brow place, nor does it want to be. It does what it wants to do very well. Basic bar offerings with some"mystic" special libations. Decor is a bit minimalist but with a sense of the occult down NOLA way. The drink specials and food reflect that influence, too The food menu is limited but I have enjoyed the 1/4 Hell's Chicken a few times now. It comes with some sweet pickle chips and julienned pickled beets. I lucked into stopping in a Tuesday and came back for more. Tuesday nights 7:30-9:30 are Jazz night. The band she for a $5 donation and the second half is open to the floor jam session. Nice music that sets the mood of the Big Easy. read more

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What a cool lil spot in Roc! My friend had been dying to come here for her 21st birthday celebration. I absolutely loved the interior - the decor is spooky, yet cute, and invites an eclectic crowd and conversation. The drink menu was really unique and stuck to the theme of all things spooky and paranormal. I ended up enjoying everything I had there, they do food as well but we were there after the kitchen closed so we didn't get to try anything. We each were able to get our tarot cards read, too, which was a highly unique experience for us! Only complaint is that each of the bartenders were not the friendliest while we were there. One of them gave someone in our group a hard time because he didn't think she looked 21, even though we had our IDs checked at the door. Based on previous reviews, I guess it isn't unusual for the staff to be on the edgier side. If I'm ever back drinking in Roc I will gladly hit this bar again! read more

The Spirit Room - Inside! - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Rochester, New York

If the kitchen is supposed to be open until 11p don't tell people they can't order food at 10:50pm. What's the point of hours?

I have been meaning to come here since I heard the pitch for the space nearly four years ago. I followed on social media and had an idea of what this space would be like and, boy... I still actually had NO idea how rad this place actually is. I have tried three cocktails- the Good Omen, the Planchette and The Fox Sisters. All are INCREDIBLE. So many different flavors, nothing too sweet, too sour or too boozy in taste. I had a nice buzz and they're beautiful. For food, my husband and I split a few dishes- the hot fried chicken sandwich, pork tacos (that come with the BEST pinto beans EVER on the side) and the shrimp and grits. All were SO full of flavor. The chicken sandwich was crisp and juicy and the slaw paired perfect with the heat. It's definitely messy but worth every lick of the finger and napkin you'll need. The tacos are juicy with an incredible green sauce and THE BEANS!! I know. I love them. Grab some napkins for these too. The shrimp and grits were insane. The Cajun Trinity of sautéed veg done with shrimp all cooked with sausage over creamy grits- dudes. DUDERONIS. We definitely can't pick a favorite but I don't want to. Hubs went for the nana pudding which disappeared pretty fast and he's stoked. I was busy back on the booze and missed it. The space is warm, inviting and I feel like I need several visits to really see all of the amazing vintage photos, art and curated pieces they've got everywhere. We came in at noon and it was pretty full for lunch but still, lots of space and a great environment that didn't feel weird at all for a bar during the day. I hope we get to come back soon (hey full list of cocktails!) and I hope you get a chance to enjoy the space for us in the meantime. Highly, highly recommend!! read more

The Spirit Room - The Fox Sisters, the Good Omen. - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Rochester, New York

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The spirit room was definitely one of the more interesting bars I've been to in a while. The decor is funky, they had some light jazz the night I went and overall it was just a good atmosphere. It wasn't too crowded when I went but enough people to make it active. The bartender knew her drinks and had good suggestions when asked the only negative was she was a little snarky with her responses back to me. I'm not sure whether she was overworked or just having an off night but she didn't seem happy to be there. The drink I got was very nice and refreshing while still funky/edgy, it was a little pricey though at $11. I also got the banana pudding which was more banana creme filling like but nonetheless good, could easily be shared by 2 people. I would definitely come back again!! read more

The Spirit Room - The book, the bell and the candle - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Rochester, New York

I met a friend for drinks after hearing so many fun things about this place, and ended-up getting tempted by the Shrimp & Grits entree! I'm from NC, and let me assure you -- the chef creates a *fantastic* rendition of this Southern fare! Every touch in this restaurant/bar is selected with care -- the cut glass iced water dispenser, the glassware, the cocktail picks with the skulls on them, the environmentally-focused paper straws (which coincidentally add to the beauty of the drink presentation) ... not a detail is overlooked! While the establishment definitely tips its hat to New Orleans, the owner has referenced a lot of *local* lore of spirits, séances, mediums, etc. ... which really makes coming here an extra-cool truly unique experience. Both drinks I got were from the Summer menu, which I think is getting ready to change. The owner helped me select the order -- to start with bitter/sour grapefruit amazingness, and finish with an absinthe mint julep -- created with ice crushed-to-order ... by a mallet and into a specific bag created for the process. So cool! Artfully created and presented! And $10 each! A real bargain by the time you take into consideration everything I mention above! This place is GREAT, and I'll be back fo' sho'! read more

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So we all met here for cocktails and conversation.. it's a very cool place. Old school vibes with the bar ware, plates, tables, long bar and set up. I liked this space and I don't doubt later in the evening it gets busy. I believe they have a tarot reader who comes in.. that would be fun. The cocktails are well made and strong just a note, and staff is friendly but even though it was not busy took forever to get cocktails normally I'd let it fly, but... no air conditioner.. it was hot as hell in that place. I feel for the bartenders, cooks downstairs and the patrons. I know this is Rochester, NY but you need A/C kids you just do.. we all ordered a few cocktails, I got myself a Planchette it had Gin, Lemon, Wine and Botanicals. It was thirst quenching on a warm day. Others got all sorts of very unique cocktails and everyone seemed happy with them. Now dear reader you are wondering why the three stars.. well here goes: Everyone just about ordered the same dish the Fried Chicken, it comes naked(no spice), Hot, than seriously hot. They will give you Sauce on the side I never got it.. but I'll tell you about that shortly. Most of the crew liked what they got, two people got their orders and they were not cooked thru. One sent it back and got it back, another just changed to the tacos. I also ordered the chicken. Now here's the thing the Fried Chicken is cooked to order and that's fabulous and appreciated. But after I ordered my chicken and everyone had to send stuff back we went to sit outside due to the fact it was hot as hell inside. One person got her tacos fast, my other friend got her refired fried chicken. I was kept waiting and I had enough and I was a little hot about it. It came out and I tried it, the breading had no flavor and tasted like grease and the chicken was done but had no flavor? After waiting about 45 or so.. I marched inside the place and told them about it. Yes I was annoyed.. The owner rectified it I got a refund and I was not joking when I said I'm going to Pizza Stop cause I did..& sat outside with my pizza. Yes I did.. I was HANGRY. They also gave me their famous banana pudding which was gracious of them but... I just feel for the kitchen staff. I'm so sorry... So when we left a few of my group went inside to settle up I guess the owner told them and they told me remind them of the incident and they would take care of us. I wished I went inside and asked for a card. Oh well.. come here when it's cooler for a few cocktails and go elsewhere for the food. It's a cool space but I'm kind of disappointed. Parking is on the street it's hit or miss. You can Uber too.. that's all I got. read more

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Great decor and ambience, great music playing, would recommend checking out! Small stage, food menu as well as drinks and mocktails. read more

The Spirit Room - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Rochester, New York

Met a friend for a drink and some dinner here. I like the atmosphere a lot. They had a piano player that played music from the 1920's/30's, which was really fun. My friend told the bartender a couple things she liked and he made her a delicious cocktail. I ordered off the menu, I can't remember the name but it sounded interesting in a good way and it was. For food, I ordered the shrimp and grits. It was a bit spicy, and the flavor was on point and delicious. I hope to go back and try more drinks and food. You can tell this place is a labor of love. read more

Yummy cocktails in spooky, fun environment. Everything has a dark, horror theme. They play old school silent horror movies in the background. I've never eaten a full meal but the banana pudding is to die for... an awesome, unique bar. read more

Just go here immediately. The newly opened Spirit Room quickly became my new favorite cocktail bar for many many reasons 1) Let's go with the obvious first - my cocktail! I went with the Fox Sisters, a bourbon based drink laced with lavender and garnished with pine. The profile was perfect and I love a sweet cocktail. Drink slow and enjoy. 2) If your favorite part of going to the Daily Refresher in the last few years was having Jake whip out cocktails in the downstairs bar, you're in luck. He is the owner of Spirit Room and was tending bar last night. He did the bulk of the cocktail list and it's one of the most comprehensive in town. Also on the menu is Genny, Genny lite, and an IPA I can't remember. Red and "ghost" wine also available. 3) And this is probably most important - the mood and ambiance. Every last detail was thought out from the incredible (thrifted) cut white paper doilies used as coasters, to the wall art that read to me like American Horror Story but somehow cooler. The bar is stocked with spooky inspired decor and there's a big stage area that was used for an open mic last night (Sunday). I agree with other reviewers that this is truly a place for everyone. 4) the location. State st was SO in need of this spot and is such a welcome addition to the neighborhood. Street parking was easy to find and it is central for everyone who wants to grab a drink after work or ride share to for a fun night on the town. I am so excited to see this place thrive and am so happy to have a fresh new spot to imbibe with friends and meet new ones. Also of note: tarot card reader in the corner. Check it out if you're in the mood for a spooky but somehow still romantic evening, a delicious cocktail, and a great time. read more

The Spirit Room - Fox sisters - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Rochester, New York

Rochester, we had no idea what we were missing on the scene until it arrived, fully formed, decorated and stocked for full service. The Spirit Room is a totally unique craft cocktail experience. Not simply a bar, but a restaurant and entertainment space as well. I went with a group of four and between us we tried a bunch of drinks, the Old Fashioned, the Manhattan, the Mai Tai, the Spirit version of a French 75 (didn't want to butcher the spelling on the name) and two of three canned beers. I loved the Mai Tai in the vampire cup, but every drink was distinct and well balanced. Each was served in a Wexford china glass. I had the spicy vegan chili which tasted homemade, and was perfect comfort food. I had to see what all the buzz was about and try the banana pudding, my first banana pudding ever. Think ripe bananas, vanilla cake and whipped cream- so good. The Spirit Room is informed by the history of Rochester's spiritualist community. From the shrine to the Fox Sisters to the drink titles, the Spirit Room bring to mind this history. In addition it's a modern day spiritualist space. My three friends and I had tarot readings ($10). I had an outstanding experience with my reader Ellen, and I left feeling like I had focus for my week moving forward. I have known Jacob, one of the owners, for many years from his time behind another craft cocktail bar and I can see that he and his wife Rachel have put their heart and their personalities into the bar. I can't say enough good things about The Spirit Room. This is on my list of top spots! read more

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Very chill, relaxed place. I went in by myself and a lot of people talked to me. Jake, the owner, was super friendly and helpful. There's a city lot right behind for east parking, although you wouldn't think it'd be easy from all the construction on the street and sidewalk. Definitely a must-see place to check out in roc. read more

As I said to the handsome bearded bartender Jake, "If this place were in Brooklyn, it would be destroyed". But it's not! It's in underrated Rochester, and I do mean that with sincerity. The space feels a bit like a vaudeville antique shop, they offer tarot card readings and drinks based off your fortune. Can you imagine the line around the block for that nonsense if this were in a larger city? They hold live events, will recite a random poem for you for just a buck, and both the patrons and staff are eager to help guide you to like minded happenings in the area. You will feel right at home. I ordered the Bone Crusher: mezcal, lime, sugar, and hellfire. Real hellfire? Could be, but it won't burn ya. It's a well made, balanced cocktail made with love. They also have a mocktail section, and since my cool factor is rapidly declining with age, I approve of this. The food options should not be skipped either- the fried chicken with hot honey is really, really great. I know you might not believe me, but this is some of the best fried chicken I've ever had. Perfectly crispy skin, sweet and not too spicy honey (they offer an obscenely hot version too), and so juicy it's almost dripping down your face. They have a poetry and pie night, free tampons in the ladies room, and a black hot sauce I've only seen at the make your own bloody Mary bar at Atchafalaya in New Orleans. It's right by Artisan Works, so you can make a day trip of offbeat fun easily. Everyone should come and be lovely. read more

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The kitchen was closed and out of food at 11 on Saturday. It looked like a dirty spooky place and it's May not October. Probably would never go back. If you're reading this go to Angry Bird. read more