The team behind Cortez is opening a sister bar.
Cortez Seafood + Cocktail is growing up—literally. Five years after opening the chef-driven seafood restaurant in Glenwood South, James Beard-nominated chef/partner Oscar Diaz and managing partner Charlie Ibarra (of Jose and Sons fame) are transforming the abandoned second-floor space above Cortez into Cuya Cocktail Bar. A nightcap that you don’t have to travel farther than Glenwood South for? Um, yes please.
Short for maracuya (Spanish for passionfruit), Cuya will open late summer/early fall as a “boutique, lush destination inspired by travels past and the bustling nightlife of Glenwood South,” says Ibarra—with the bev menu composed of a rotating list of natural wines and signature cocktails, including a tropical maracuya-flavored libation, natch.
The island vibe will be extended via “music discovery and dancing to globe-trotting sounds on the weekends,” says Ibarra, aka open-format music via collabs with the team’s fave local musicians, entertainers and DJs. Translation: the perf perch for getting down and drinking up.
As for the atmosphere, Ibarra says the team is working on designing the space in a way that further plays off their Latino heritage and worldly inspirations. “Our hope is to provide a welcoming space open to any and all with open arms and an open mind,” he says. “Our passion for food, cocktails and music entertainment traverses many geographical lines and has been key in gaining us so many wonderful repeat guests.” It’s gonna be a total vibe. @cuyaraleigh
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