Cortez has a new place to catch the game. Tailgatin’ Sports Tavern opened August 22 at 12012 Cortez Road W., in a building local diners will recognize as the former home of Izzy’s Place, and before that, Slicker’s Eatery. It’s owned by husband-and-wife team Tonya and Doug Lutz, with Doug running the kitchen and family member Adison tending bar.
Inside, you’ll find 11 indoor televisions and two dartboards that are already set up for league play. The limited opening menu covers the basics done right: wings, burgers, chicken sandwiches, fried fish and salads. Hours are 11 a.m. to 2 a.m. with food served until about 11 p.m., and the tavern is closed on Tuesdays.
What sets this opening apart is that the Lutzes are treating it as a work in progress. Live music, dart leagues, an expanded menu and patio TVs are all possibilities, and they’re asking customers to weigh in on what comes next. With football season approaching, Cortez and West Bradenton now have one more locally owned option for NFL Sundays and college Saturdays. What would you want to see added first?
