When it comes to finding a reliable and diverse dining experience in Arlington Heights, Cortland’s Garage stands out as a local favorite. Known for its inviting atmosphere and a menu that caters to a variety of tastes, Cortland’s Garage offers more than just a meal—it provides a memorable culinary journey.
Whether you’re stopping by for a casual lunch, a hearty dinner, or weekend brunch with friends, the menu is thoughtfully crafted to satisfy cravings and introduce guests to bold flavors and classic favorites with a modern twist.
This combination of quality ingredients, creative dishes, and attentive service makes Cortland’s Garage a go-to destination for food enthusiasts and families alike.
From indulgent appetizers to vibrant salads, handcrafted sandwiches to delectable entrees, the menu showcases a balance of comfort food and innovative creations. Each dish reflects the passion and expertise of the kitchen team, ensuring every bite delivers freshness and satisfaction.
The ambiance complements the menu perfectly, inviting diners to relax and enjoy the culinary offerings in a warm, welcoming environment. Whether you’re a local or just passing through Arlington Heights, Cortland’s Garage promises a menu experience that is both familiar and exciting.
Appetizers That Set the Tone
Starting your meal at Cortland’s Garage means indulging in a selection of appetizers designed to awaken the palate and prepare for the dishes to come. The appetizer menu features a variety of choices, from crispy and savory to light and refreshing, ensuring there is something for everyone.
One of the standout options includes the crispy calamari, perfectly fried to a golden brown and paired with a tangy marinara sauce. The calamari strikes a balance between texture and flavor, making it a favorite among regular patrons.
There’s also the spinach artichoke dip, a creamy and cheesy delight served with warm tortilla chips, ideal for sharing and starting conversations.
For those seeking something lighter, the avocado hummus trio offers a unique twist on traditional dips, combining creamy avocado with classic hummus and roasted red pepper. This dish is not only flavorful but also showcases Cortland’s dedication to fresh, quality ingredients.
- Crispy Calamari with Marinara
- Spinach Artichoke Dip with Tortilla Chips
- Avocado Hummus Trio with Pita Bread
- Buffalo Cauliflower Bites with Blue Cheese Dip
“Our appetizers are crafted to create the perfect balance between bold flavors and shareable moments,” says the head chef at Cortland’s Garage.
Fresh and Flavorful Salads
Salads at Cortland’s Garage are more than just a side dish—they are a celebration of fresh ingredients and creative combinations. Whether you’re dining for health or flavor, the salad menu offers a variety of options that can serve as a light meal or a complement to other dishes.
The Southwest Chicken Salad is a popular choice, featuring grilled chicken breast, black beans, corn, avocado, and a zesty chipotle dressing. It’s a perfect mix of protein and vegetables, providing both satisfaction and nutrition.
Another highlight is the Mediterranean Quinoa Salad, which combines quinoa, cucumbers, tomatoes, kalamata olives, and feta cheese, dressed with a lemon vinaigrette that enhances the fresh flavors.
For those who prefer a vegetarian option, the Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese Salad is a delicious and colorful choice. It pairs the earthiness of beets with the creamy tang of goat cheese, tossed with candied walnuts and mixed greens for added texture and sweetness.
- Southwest Chicken Salad with Chipotle Dressing
- Mediterranean Quinoa Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
- Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese Salad with Candied Walnuts
- Classic Caesar Salad with House-made Croutons
| Salad | Main Ingredients | Calories |
| Southwest Chicken Salad | Grilled chicken, black beans, corn, avocado | 450 |
| Mediterranean Quinoa Salad | Quinoa, cucumbers, olives, feta cheese | 380 |
| Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese Salad | Beets, goat cheese, candied walnuts, greens | 420 |
Handcrafted Sandwiches and Burgers
Cortland’s Garage prides itself on its selection of sandwiches and burgers, each crafted with fresh, high-quality ingredients and served on freshly baked bread or buns. These options appeal to those craving something hearty and satisfying without compromising flavor or quality.
The Classic Garage Burger features a juicy beef patty topped with cheddar cheese, lettuce, tomato, and a special house sauce. It’s a timeless option that showcases the kitchen’s commitment to perfect grilling and balanced flavors.
For a more adventurous palate, the BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich offers tender pork slow-cooked in a smoky barbecue sauce, topped with crispy onion rings and pickles.
Vegetarian guests will appreciate the Grilled Portobello Mushroom Sandwich, which includes marinated mushrooms, roasted red peppers, and melted provolone cheese. This sandwich exemplifies how plant-based dishes can be just as flavorful and satisfying.
- Classic Garage Burger with Cheddar Cheese
- BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich with Onion Rings
- Grilled Portobello Mushroom Sandwich with Provolone
- Turkey Avocado Club with Bacon and Mayo
“Our sandwiches are designed to combine comfort with innovation, ensuring every bite is as memorable as the last,” notes the culinary director.
Enticing Entrees for Every Appetite
The entree menu at Cortland’s Garage offers an array of dishes designed to please a variety of tastes and preferences. From traditional American favorites to globally inspired plates, each entree is prepared with care and an eye for detail.
The Pan-Seared Salmon is a standout, served with a lemon butter sauce and accompanied by seasonal vegetables. It’s a light yet flavorful dish that appeals to seafood lovers.
Meanwhile, the Braised Short Ribs offer a rich and hearty option, slow-cooked to perfection and served with creamy mashed potatoes.
For those looking for comfort food with a twist, the Truffle Mac and Cheese is an indulgent choice, featuring a blend of cheeses and a hint of truffle oil for added depth and aroma. This entree perfectly balances richness and sophistication.
- Pan-Seared Salmon with Lemon Butter Sauce
- Braised Short Ribs with Mashed Potatoes
- Truffle Mac and Cheese with Three Cheese Blend
- Grilled Chicken Marsala with Mushroom Sauce
| Entree | Main Components | Cooking Style |
| Pan-Seared Salmon | Salmon, lemon butter, seasonal vegetables | Pan-seared |
| Braised Short Ribs | Beef short ribs, mashed potatoes, gravy | Braised |
| Truffle Mac and Cheese | Macaroni, three cheese blend, truffle oil | Baked |
Brunch Favorites with a Twist
Brunch at Cortland’s Garage combines classic dishes with unexpected flavors and fresh ingredients. The brunch menu is designed to offer something for early risers and late sleepers alike, featuring everything from sweet to savory options.
One of the most popular dishes is the Avocado Toast with Poached Eggs, elevated by multigrain bread, cherry tomatoes, and a sprinkle of feta cheese. It’s a healthy yet indulgent choice that embodies modern brunch trends.
The Belgian Waffles come topped with fresh berries and whipped cream, offering a sweet complement to the savory options.
For those who prefer something heartier, the Steak and Eggs plate is a fulfilling choice, featuring a perfectly cooked strip steak alongside two eggs prepared to your liking. This dish caters to those who want a protein-packed start to their day.
- Avocado Toast with Poached Eggs and Feta
- Belgian Waffles with Fresh Berries
- Steak and Eggs with Home Fries
- Breakfast Burrito with Chorizo and Salsa
“Our brunch menu is crafted to offer a balance between indulgence and nourishment, perfect for any weekend gathering,” explains the brunch coordinator.
Craft Beverages and Specialty Drinks
Complementing the culinary offerings, Cortland’s Garage boasts an extensive beverage menu featuring craft beers, creative cocktails, and non-alcoholic options. The selection is curated to enhance the dining experience and pair well with various dishes.
The cocktail menu highlights classics like the Moscow Mule and Old Fashioned, alongside house specials such as the Garage Smash, a refreshing mix of bourbon, fresh mint, and citrus. For beer enthusiasts, a rotating list of local craft brews ensures there is always something new to try.
Non-alcoholic guests can enjoy handcrafted mocktails and freshly squeezed juices. The Ginger Lime Fizz is a popular choice, offering a zesty and invigorating flavor without the alcohol content, making it suitable for all ages.
- Moscow Mule with Fresh Ginger and Lime
- Garage Smash Bourbon Cocktail
- Rotating Selection of Local Craft Beers
- Ginger Lime Fizz Non-Alcoholic Mocktail
| Drink | Main Ingredients | Alcohol Content |
| Moscow Mule | Vodka, ginger beer, lime juice | Moderate |
| Garage Smash | Bourbon, mint, citrus, simple syrup | Moderate |
| Ginger Lime Fizz | Ginger syrup, lime, soda water | None |
Desserts to Satisfy Every Sweet Tooth
Ending your meal at Cortland’s Garage with dessert is a must. The dessert menu features indulgent creations that range from rich and decadent to light and fruity, ensuring a perfect finale to any dining experience.
The Chocolate Lava Cake is a standout, offering a warm, gooey center that pairs beautifully with vanilla ice cream. For those who prefer fruity desserts, the Lemon Blueberry Tart provides a refreshing balance of tangy and sweet flavors.
Additionally, the Salted Caramel Cheesecake combines creamy texture with a hint of salty sweetness, delighting dessert lovers.
The dessert options are also designed to pair well with coffee or dessert wines, rounding off the meal with sophistication and style.
- Chocolate Lava Cake with Vanilla Ice Cream
- Lemon Blueberry Tart with Fresh Berries
- Salted Caramel Cheesecake
- Classic Tiramisu with Espresso Soak
“Our desserts are crafted to leave a lasting impression, combining classic techniques with contemporary flavors,” shares the pastry chef.
In conclusion, Cortland’s Garage Arlington Heights offers a comprehensive menu that caters to diverse tastes and occasions. From appetizers designed to spark your appetite, to hearty entrees and indulgent desserts, every dish reflects a commitment to quality and creativity.
The thoughtful combination of fresh ingredients, innovative recipes, and skillful preparation creates dining experiences that are both satisfying and memorable. Whether you’re seeking a quick bite, a leisurely brunch, or a full dinner, the menu offers something to delight every guest.
The beverage selection further enhances the meal, with craft cocktails and local brews that complement the food perfectly. At Cortland’s Garage, the focus is on delivering not just food, but an experience—one that invites you to relax, savor, and return time and time again.
