In days of yore, I frequented an establishment by the name of Cogan’s Instant Art Bar in Norfolk, Virginia. Don’t ask me what “instant art” is, or why it seemed like this “bar” was barely alive. I went there for the music – mostly indie and punk-rock shows with local and national touring acts, and when my old band performed there. It was a dive, but it was our dive. And many of us weren’t even of age (although some of us got around that).

At any rate, the floors have been swept, the bar given a new coat of lacquer, and the miniature stage in the corner removed. They actually serve what can Cogan's Tapsbe called food there now, becoming quite an institution for the local Ghent-area crowd. No more loud, obnoxious tunes blasting in your ear from a Marshall half-stack, only the subtle reminders of days gone by churning softly out of the speakers. It’s now called Cogan’s Pizza; and in some small sense, I prefer it this way.

Gone are the days of macro swill being pushed on patrons. Despite still featuring their wryly-named Gorilla Piss (PBR) on tap, Cogan’s has done a 180 with their diversified their beer list. Just check out their beer list. Hell, you can actually bring your family in there now.

And the food is great. Predominantly a neighborhood pizza joint, these guys know how to make a delicious pie. Spicy red sauce, fresh toppings, and quality beer is what they do, and they do it well. So if you’re ever in the area, check ‘em out in the Ghent section of Norfolk or their new location in Suffolk.

If you’re feeling up to it, ask the bartender for a nice, tall glass of Gorilla Piss.