Page 35 - 2024 Cortland Travel Guide

FOOD & DRINK

Time

Culinary Capsules

Check out these three historic eateries in Cortland
County, serving up nostalgia alongside delicious dishes.
They’re a must for any foodie’s list!

GREEN ARCH RESTAURANT
In 1930, Italian immigrant Francesca Discenza kickstarted her entrepreneurial
The Green Arch in the 1920s
journey, starting with a grocery store in the now Green Arch. The Elm Street
business secretly doubled as the East End’s only speakeasy during Prohibition,
earning Francesca a citation for serving booze undercover. Over the years,
it morphed into a lively dance hall that once hosted the legendary Louis
Armstrong and served Francesca’s delicious tomato pie, the first to do so Eat around the world!
in Cortland. Now run by family friend Matt Petrella, this historic spot still
serves classic Italian dishes and its famous homemade “Arch Sauce” – and,
Lofongo at La Bamba
of course, the beloved Old Fashioned.
Chicken stuffed with mofongo (smashed plantain and
COMMUNITY RESTAURANT garlic). Pair it with a side of yuca and vegetables.
The Community Restaurant has Chicken Chile Relleno at Los Lagos
been a culinary cornerstone is Chile relleno with pulled chicken and chipotle sauce.
downtown Cortland since its humble Served with rice and guacamole salad.
beginnings as the Community
The Shishtawooc at Pita Gourmet
Coffee Shop in the early 20th
Marinated char-broiled skewer of chicken served with rice
century. It shifted gears to the
and a traditional salad or soup.
Community Grill in 1930, ultimately
finding its identity in 1963 when Mama’s Spags and Balls at Rex’s Pasta
the Souzas family took the reins. Today, Evan Souzas proudly continues Angel hair pasta with homemade meatballs lathered in
the legacy, specializing in hearty Greek comfort dishes, with a nod to some their homemade house tomato sauce.
American and Italian fare. It boasts CNY’s largest bourbon collection and the
Tonkotsu Ramen at Yori House
beloved seasonal favorite, the Tom & Jerry.
Fresh ramen noodles topped with boiled egg, green on-
ions, and fresh bean sprouts with rich, savory bone broth
topped with chashu (sliced pork belly)

The Green Arch today

MELODYLAND
Established in 1932, Melodyland has the distinction of being the oldest
family-run restaurant in Cortland County. From its pizza parlor origins, it’s
passed down through generations, now run by Maria Reitano and her daughter,
Lisa. Today, locals flock for classic dishes like homemade spaghetti and ravioli, all
served with a side of tradition. With a full bar sans fruity drinks and unique
salad dressing options—Italian, Italian or Italian—Melodyland stays true to
its roots. Pro tip: Cash or check only; no credit cards accepted.

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