Head to These Drive-In Movies Near From Pittsburgh

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June 27, 2025

Groups of people on blankets and in chairs sit in a Pittsburgh park watching a free summer movie series on an inflatable screen in front of the city skyline.

Load the family into the car! It’s time for a free movie night as a part of one of the summer series going on around the city of Pittsburgh. Forget expensive tickets, no outside snacks, and crowded theaters. Instead, the Steel City transforms into an open-air cinema, inviting you to grab a blanket and enjoy movies in some of the city’s most beloved green spaces. It’s the perfect way to cool down, reconnect with the community, and enjoy cinematic magic without spending a dime.

Summer Movie Series at Pittsburgh Parks and Beyond

Hazelwood Local & Row House Cinema

July-August, Mill 19

These two groups are coming together to offer families a night out on the lawn. Bring your lawn chairs and blankets for the movies Cool Runnings in July and The Wild Robot in August. Other than the movie you can grab free popcorn from Row House Cinema, check out pre-show activities, and get face paint done courtesy of Hazelwood Local and Beanie Paints.

Dollar Bank Cinema In The Park

July-August, Various Locations

Possibly the largest free movie series of the summer, Dollar Bank sponsors various Cinema In The Park nights through many of the local parks. Locations include Schenley Park, Arsenal Park, Banksville Park, Riverview Park, Liberty Green Park, Troy Hill Citizens Park, McBride Park, West End Elliot Overlook, Schenley Plaza, Grandview Park, Highland Park, Brookline Memorial Park, and Ormsby Park. Each park sets its own schedule but you can look forward to features like Inside Out 2, Moana 2, Paddington in Peru, and Dog Man.

Allegheny County Movies in the Parks

July-August, Various Locations

Another Pittsburgh summer movie series featuring the local parks comes from sponsor Allegheny County. The county encourages guests to bring along their own food, drinks, and snacks to really make the night their own. This year, the series takes place at Deer Lakes Park Carp Field, Hartwood Acres Park Mansion Lawn, North Park Boathouse Lawn, Harrison Hills Park Yakaon Shelter, Settlers Cabin Park Moccasin Shelter, and Boyce Park Four Seasons Center. The biggest animated films of last year make an appearance such as Despicable Me 4, Inside Out 2, Moana 2, Mufasa: The Lion King, Transformers One, and Kung Fu Panda 4.

Bethel Park Movies in the Park

July-August, Miner’s Park

Bethel Park and surrounding community members have three more movie showings to look forward to this year at Miner’s Park. On July 18 the park will be playing the new Harold and the Purple Crayon movie starring Zachary Levi. Then, on August 1 see the throwback classic The Goonies, a staple of older generations childhood. Finally, the series comes to a close on August 15 with a showing of the original Inside Out to relive the amazing masterpiece all over again.

Summer Outdoors Classic Series

July-September, Bridgeville Public Library

Who doesn’t love a classic mystery or romance from the early ages of cinema? The Bridgeville Public Library invites you to bring a lawn chair to their patio and rewind to when times were simpler. Films start at dusk and the next in the lineup include A Shot in the Dark, The Seven Year Itch, and The Thomas Crow Affair. Whether you’re a fan of dreamy romantic comedies, melodramatic pieces, heist films, there’s something for each movie lover.

Summer 2025 Movies in the Pool Lot

July-August, Dormont Pool Parking Lot

After a long day of swimming, the perfect end involves heading to the parking lot and cozying up in a towel to popular kid movies. You can bring chairs or blankets to reserve your spot and any snacks you like. The two movies coming up highlight top choices for many different generations. The first is The Iron Giant on July 12, taking us back to 1999 sci-fi family film. Then, end the pool lot movie season with another sci-fi inspired flick, Big Hero 6 from Disney.

Movies at Fairview

July-October, Fairview Park

Lasting a bit after summer ends, South Fayette Township holds their movie series at Fairview Park on Friday nights. They encourage you to bring along whatever comfy chair you like, along with bug spray and treats for the kids. The movie picks for the upcoming months are Moana 2 for July, Despicable Me 4 for August, The Addams Family 2 for September, and the Hindi children’s film Zokkomon with English subtitles in October. Plus, you can meet Moana prior to the movie in July, so who knows what surprises are in store.

Story by Kylie Thomas
Photo Courtesy of City of Pittsburgh

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Taste Test Pittsburgh with These Food and Beverage Flights

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June 27, 2025

A four drink coffee flight from a Pittsburgh coffee shop with four different designed lattes on a wood tray themed to a carnival.

Forget boring decisions! In Pittsburgh, the answer to “What should I get?” tells you to try a bit of everything with a food or beverage flight. Do you like craft beer? Why settle for one when you can explore a spectrum of flavors? Same with margaritas, shots, soups, pancakes, or even tacos. We recommend heading out to these spots with a friend so you can each get a flight to share with one another. Or, bring the whole family for a big party that fills the table with food and drinks. You may just find a new favorite spot or a new dish while you’re at it.

Food and Beverage Flights in Pittsburgh

Margarita Flight at Las Velas

We know that when you’re a margarita lover it can be hard to narrow your choices down to just one flavor. That’s what Las Velas provides a Margarita Flight full of seasonal flavors. Choices vary often, depending on what ingredients are available at farmers’ markets, so stop in to try something new each time.

Soup Flight at Pub in the Park

This Swissvale pub brings comfort food to the next level with a Soup Flight. Every day you can sample selections of their signature soups such as French Onion, Chicken Noodle, and much more. To accompany your Soup Flight, consider ordering their Grilled Cheese featuring American cheese, bacon, and tomato.

Bourbon Flights at Bridges and Bourbon

That’s correct, we said flights with an “s” at the end, meaning you have plenty to choose from at this bourbon bar. Each flight includes three sample-size tastings of bourbon from all around the world. Maybe you’ll try their Women in Bourbon Flight featuring Michters American, Woodford Reserve Double Oaked, and Uncle Nearest Rye. Or, you’ll stay local with the Pennsylvania Flight showcasing Kinsey 4 yr American, Big Spring Wheat, and Liberty Pole Peated.

Coffee Flight and Refresher Flight at Cutie’s Coffee Company

A coffee flight is one thing. A coffee flight with each drink individually garnished and perfected to the nines? That’s magic. Cutie’s Coffee Company themes their four drink coffee flight according to the season. Plus, they always include cute decorations and flavors. For summer, dive into their Carnival Flight with a Circus Animal Cookie Latte, Hot Air Balloon Frappe, Caramel Popcorn Latte, and Funnel Cake Latte. But, if you’re not a coffee fan they have a Refresher Flight too that includes fruity flavored water and coconut milk.

French Toast Flights and Pancake Flights at The Breakfast Spot

Breakfast is absolutely amazing, but it can always use an upgrade. At The Breakfast Spot, prepare to dig into three single-serving pancake and french toast flavors of your choice. Whether you opt for yours to be coated in cookie butter, slathered in bananas, or topped with a lemon curd, you’ll want to have a friend nearby in case you cannot finish the large plate. In case you really can’t choose between pancakes and french toast, have one person at the table get one and another to get the other, and then split them all in half to share.

Tequila Flight at Viva La Vida

Doesn’t five shots of tequila in a row sound like plenty of fun? Well, it is if you share it with friends, and that’s what this Tequila Flight at Viva La Vida is meant for! This flight comes out full force in an airplane with sparklers and smoke coming out of the shots. The wait staff will even make a big deal out of serving this flight if it’s a special occasion like your birthday. Watch out for a lighted sign and fireworks. Plus, if straight tequila is too much, they have Shot Flights available as well.

With a location in Wexford and one soon to open in the Strip District, Tapville Social may just be the royalty of flights. On Thursdays, step inside for $9 Taco Flights and even grab a Margarita Flight to go along with it. Then, for brunch on Saturdays and Sundays, sit down to delicious Coffee Flights and Mimosa Flights. But, no matter what day of the week it is, you can order their Dessert Flight. This sweet treat includes Butter Toffee Bundt Cake, Seasonal Cheesecake, and Triple Chocolate Mousse Cake. It’s a perfect restaurant to head to with friends or family.

Story by Kylie Thomas
Photo Courtesy of Cutie’s Coffee Company

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10 of the Best Asian Resturants in the Pittsburgh Area

By

Jordan Snowden

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June 27, 2025

An above shot of three bowls of food filled with Delicious Southeast Asian delicacies. — Delicious Southeast Asian delicacies from Kiin Lao, Squirrel Hill.

Tran Jenny Le grew up in a Vietnamese household where every meal was a celebration of bold, rich flavors and aromatic spices. The complexity of these flavors ignited her passion for delicious food, something she shares on social media and in her support of Asian restaurants in Pittsburgh. About her choices for our How to Pittsburgh issue, she says, “After adventuring around Pittsburgh, these Asian restaurants are about as authentic as you can get, serving traditional dishes with genuine flavor.”

The Best Asian Food in Pittsburgh

Cafe 33

1711 Shady Ave., Squirrel Hill

Cafe 33 is a small Taiwanese restaurant located in Squirrel Hill; if you are not looking for it, you will probably miss it in the blink of an eye. Although the space might be small, each dish is bursting with bold, delicious flavors, from their Soup Dumplings to Marinated Cabbage, Salt & Pepper Pork Rib Tips, and Fried Rice. If you are vegetarian or vegan, I highly recommend their Stir Fry Soft Tofu with Chives. It’s a dish that I have recommended to many people, and it has never disappointed. Cafe 33 is a go-to recommendation for when you want to share Asian food in a family-style way, especially in large groups.

Kiin Lao & Thai Eatery

5846 Forbes Ave.

A blend of authentic Lao and Thai flavors in Squirrel Hill. Located on the upper level above Ebisu Japanese Life Store, Kiin Lao & Thai Eatery serves what they call “rustic” street foods and drinks. The Thom Som Salad, Pumpkin Curry, and Garlic Noodles with Crispy Chicken are my go-to every time I am there. The restaurant offers a spacious setting perfect for groups to gather, while serving a diverse range of drinks like refreshing Thai iced tea and expertly crafted cocktails.

Mola

6018 Penn Ave., East Liberty

Mola is located on busy Penn Ave., and it is one of the top-quality sushi places in Pittsburgh. Something that has caught my attention from the start is their seasoned sushi rice, which arrives a light brown color, unlike the typical white sushi rice that you see. My favorite dishes are Tuna Tartare served with chips, Spicy Scallop Roll, and the simple Salmon Avocado Roll. They also have a specialty menu which can include high-quality Uni, another favorite of mine. Besides the food, Mola also serves alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. They recently added a second location in the Novo Asian Food Hall within the Strip District Terminal.

Yotea & Yoka Kitchen

4615 Centre Ave., Oakland

Within walking distance from the University of Pittsburgh, this restaurant is a hidden gem that offers authentic, high-quality Chinese cuisine. Every time I visit, the food, drinks, and desserts have been very consistent in flavor and quality. In speaking with the owner a few times, she assures me that every dish is made from scratch by her and her husband, from rice dishes to noodles to stir-fry, meats, and hot pots. Don’t forget to order their boba tea and desserts. My favorites are the Homemade Egg Tarts and Caramel Creme Brulée.

New Saigon

1429 Potomac Ave., Dormont

A small, hidden, but authentic Vietnamese restaurant that is just a bit outside of the city in Dormont, serving popular dishes like Phở, Bún Bò Huế, and Bánh Mì. Besides the best-known Vietnamese dishes, New Saigon also dives deeper into other Vietnamese cuisine serving Bánh Xèo, Nem Lụi, Bò Kho, and more. My favorite dish is their New Saigon Phở Special, served with a huge short rib or Vietnamese Rotisserie Chicken with rice. They even have weekend specials at certain times, so keep an eye on their website and social media.

Fujiya Ramen

815 S Aiken Ave., Shadyside

Fujiya Ramen is one of the best places in Pittsburgh to get ramen on a rainy day (or any day) when you are craving a brothy, comforting meal. Their broths are always delightful and consistent. My favorite ramen is the Spicy Miso Ramen which is packed with exotic flavors. For an appetizer, I really enjoy their Pork Buns and Garlic Cucumbers, which are both so refreshing. They also serve Yakitori, which are grilled skewers that are cooked over Binchotan charcoal. I love that the atmosphere and service is always consistent and fast every time. You can enjoy their food with a cocktail.

Thai Cuisine

627 Liberty Ave., Bloomfield

Thai Cuisine is a family-owned Asian restaurant in Pittsburgh’s Little Italy, bringing the rich dishes of Thailand to the Italian community. Owned by a Thai family, they take pride in serving authentic dishes made with traditional ingredients and recipes passed down for generations. Their Duck Curry, Golden Rainbow Trout, and Crab Fried Rice are my go-tos every time I am there with my family. The environment is very relaxing, and the staff are always so friendly.

Saigon88 Express

5500 Steubenville Pike, McKees Rocks

Should a place in McKees Rocks be included in our list of Asian restaurants in Pittsburgh? Yes! Saigon88 Express serves one of the best Vietnamese noodle dishes, Bánh Mì, alongside other Asian cuisines like their Spicy Ramen. Two brothers, Song and Kevin, run the kitchen, making sure every ingredient is fresh, and each dish is served with love. Their goal is to have the freshest and highest quality ingredients in their restaurant. They also serve vegetarian options for those with dietary preferences. The highlight is definitely the friendly and welcoming staff every time I come.

JJ Poke Bowl

110 Atwood St., Oakland

Whenever I hang out with friends in Oakland, I always find myself stopping by JJ Poke Bowl to grab a poke bowl – it has become a must whether we are just grabbing takeout or sitting down for lunch. I have had a few poke bowls around Pittsburgh, but JJ has got to be one of the freshest ones around when it comes to serving raw fish in addition to the variety of toppings that they offer. This is a bang for your buck which is good for students or nurses that are around on Pitt’s campus.

Hong BBQ & Hot Pot

4310 Main Street, Bloomfield

Did someone say all you can eat? Yes, Hong in North Hills, one of six locations nationally in this small chain, serves all-you-can-eat barbecue and hot pot. It’s one of the few places in Pittsburgh to introduce this style of Asian cooking. After being seated, you can pick from a variety of marinated meat options which you grill right at the table. Along with that, you can choose the flavor of your pot of broth, to which you can add raw ingredients such as meat, seafood, vegetables or noodles. It is a fun, interactive experience that I recommend doing with a group of friends. However, make sure you are ready for a bit of a wait for a table when arriving as they are always busy. Trust me, it will be worth the wait.

Story by Tran Jenny Le
Styling by Anna Franklin
Photography by Dave Bryce

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7 Must-Visit Latin Restaurants in Pittsburgh

By

Jordan Snowden

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June 27, 2025

An above shot of an octopus taco laying on a blue plate.

Are you in search of authentic Latin restaurants in Pittsburgh, but looking for a full-on, sit-down, upscale dining experience? Guatemala-born friend of TABLE, Camila Alarcón, lays out a path for you to follow. While dining out is not her day job (she has one of those, and a big one, at Pittsburgh’s Department of Public Safety), she loves to hit the town with her husband and friends to explore all the delicious things life in the ‘Burgh has to offer. We’re so glad she’s willing to share her thoughts with TABLE readers.

The Best Latin Restaurants in Pittsburgh

Balvanera

1660 Smallman Street, Strip District

Start here with some small plates, like empanadas and mollejas, which are representative of Argentine cuisine with Spanish origins. These appetizers can be found in many households in Latin America. Move on to the asados, which represent Argentina’s rich tradition of grilling. In that department, their sausage selection is great, and I especially like the Morcilla (a kind of blood sausage) and the slender, deliciously flavorful Salchicha Parrillera. Complete the meal with an authentic cut of beef from Las Pampas Argentinas. Consider pairing all the above, but particularly the latter, with a Malbec from Balvanera’s wine list.

Gaucho

146 Sixth Street, Downtown

Staying in the southern hemisphere for a moment longer, Gaucho offers an array of dishes that remind me of my travels in Argentina. You can’t skip the Provoleta, a sizzling grilled cheese dish packed with herbaceous regional flavors. Chor y Pan is also a must. It’s found in many Latin countries as a late-night snack. Always ask for their chimichurri salsa, and pair everything with their amazing Torrontes wines from Salta.

Morcilla

6018 Penn Ave., East L3519 Butler Street, Lawrenceville

Spanish cuisine was and still is a source of inspiration and tradition for Latin/Hispanic food. Spanish colonial history has shaped many dishes in Latin America, including chorizo. Morcilla’s Chorizo features the strong flavors of pimentón and dates. This savory/sweet juxtaposition is a nod to North African cuisine, an influence in Spain from medieval times to the present day. Oxtail, prevalent in Latin and Afro-Caribbean cuisines, is presented in Morcilla’s Montadito, one of my favorite bites. Pair it with a Monastrell from Jumilla and you will be transported to Spain.

Kaya

2000 Smallman Street, Strip District

This lively place features Caribbean and Latin food in the heart of the Strip District. For me, one of the menu highlights is their seafood section, including my favorites, Conch Fritters and Mahi Mahi Tacos. Also try the Red Pepian vegetables, served in a sauce that dates to pre-Hispanic Mayan times. You can also celebrate Afro-Caribbean food with a plate of their Jerk Chicken, which pairs beautifully with bubbly Cava.

Täkō

214 Sixth Street, Downtown

If you are looking for a different kind of taco, I really enjoy the melding of Spanish and Mexican influences on the menu at Täkō. This melding is evident in their octopus Tako Taco, which highlights Hispanic spices and flavors. If you want to go more traditional, stick with the Al Pastor or Carnitas options. Skip the wine list here in favor of a spicy pineapple margarita.

Esquina Cantina

3720 Butler Street, Lawrenceville

Expand your taco knowledge at Round Corner. We are lucky to have its Oaxacan-inspired flavors in our list of Latin restaurants in Pittsburgh. Oaxaca is an area in the south of Mexico which, for historical reasons, has its own culinary traditions, and its cuisine is getting international recognition. Round Corner’s Beef Birria tacos taste incredibly authentic. From there, continue your feast with Pork Belly, Carnitas and Camarón tacos. Quench your thirst with a michelada, a Paloma, or their newest drink, Ojala.

Chicken Latino

2100 Broadway Avenue, Beechview

This Peruvian- and women-owned restaurant should be a must on your quest for Latin flavors. They specialize in Peruvian comfort food. A highlight for me is their Pollo a la Brasa (rotisserie chicken,) which is flavored with a traditional, centuries-old spice mix. This restaurant captures the diverse influences of Peruvian food from Europe, Africa, and the Indigenous peoples of the Andes. Make a trip to Beechview and take the time to explore the Latin groceries and restaurants that are influencing American restaurants throughout the city.

Story by Camila Alarcon
Styling by Anna Franklin
Photography by Dave Bryce

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Frzy’s Top 5 Must-See Concerts in Pittsburgh 2025

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June 27, 2025

Frzy stands in a yellow shirt and white bone necklace/

TABLE asked Frzy, Pittsburgh’s hometown rap legend, for his own rundown of this year’s concert calendar. As someone who loves music and makes it himself, he gives us an artist’s perspective on the top 5 must-see concerts of 2025 in Pittsburgh. So hurry up and buy your tickets before resale prices skyrocket. Who knows, you might just run into Frzy in the crowd!

Frzy Picks His Top 5 Concerts in Pittsburgh 2025

Linkin Park

August 19, PPG Paints Arena

You would have to be NUMB to not feel this pick right here. (You get it, Numb, wink wink.) I mean Linkin Park is one of the best to ever do it and the emotional connection that comes with this band speaks for itself. From the heartbreak of the passing of Chester (original member and lead singer) to the introduction of the new lead singer Emily Armstrong. There’s a lot this concert has to offer, on top of what it must deliver. Now, I’m only speaking for myself, but growing up listening to the pain that came from Chester’s vocals and relating to that darkness,xxxxxx I feel its only right I step into the light with them as well.

I probably listened to and watched their mashup with Jay-Z on MTV a million times. So, here’s me hoping they perform one of those mash ups as well. But most of all they take me to rock town with hip-hop driving, an alternative sound navigating, heavy metal backseat driving. I promise you’ll leave this concert hoarse and hype. I hope I won’t be able to tell if I’m wet from sweating or crying. Plus, it’s only fair because lord knows this band has been through hell and back. They’ve given us, the fans, their blood, sweat, and tears just to make it back on to that stage. To that I say THANK YOU and let the show begin!

Twenty One Pilots

September 28, Pavillion at Starlake

I’m going to start this out with I’M JUST A FAN! Like yes, I’m going to give you a few great reasons why this concert is going to be amazing. But, plain and simple I LOVE these guys. Not only are they from Ohio, right next door, but they write amazing songs and have voices that make me want to turn the group into Twenty-Two Pilots. (The extra pilot is me just fyi.) The nerd in me goes crazy knowing I’m going to hear their big hit Heathens from the Suicide Squad soundtrack all the way to their new hit The Contact, which gets me high off life just listening to it. I guess the title speaks for itself.

We can’t forget about their unbelievable lighting design and stage plots that really take the show to another level and make you quickly forget this is a two-man group. One of the things I love most about their live shows is the passion behind those intimate moments you get like when the bass-line of Stressed Out starts and you start rapping along about all the things you wish you didn’t have to do but must. They connect, they engage, and they listen even though you’re hearing them. They might have given us a Blurryface album, but the picture is clear. This concert is going to be amazing.

Sabrina Carpenter

October 23, PPG Paints Arena

Now, come on, you know I can’t have a concert list without the seductive new pop queen herself, SC! As an artist myself, what really stands out to me is showmanship, showmanship, SHOWMANSHIP! Sabrina puts on one hell of a show. From the eye contact to the dance moves that create headlines all the way to the suggestive lyric changes, you know if you go to a Sabrina Carpenter concert, you’re going to get a one-of-a-kind concert. It’s something different and something to talk about. Shoot, I found myself playing in Sabrina’s Fortnite concert at least 10 times.

To me, Sabrina knows how to make me want to be coy, shy, and look away. All while doing so just in the hopes that she’ll make eye contact with me and wink. When we talk about Disney superstars turned pop icons we can’t say Miley, Selena, or Demi without mentioning Sabrina. What can I say, I like my coffee like I like my concerts Espresso.

Jon Batiste

October 25, Heinz Hall

Jonathan Michael Batiste. I had to say his full name because with a resume like his that’s the only way to call on greatness and have it answer back. Jon Batiste is coming to Heinz Hall this fall and putting a voice and talent like that in a legendary space like ours, I get chills just thinking about those vibes. The fact that this amazing musician has found a path that both led him to fame and to our TV screens every night is amazing. It gave us a chance to get to know him personally, to get to feel like we were inviting a friend into our living rooms every night when we turned on The Late Show.

Now, it’s our chance to go to our friend’s concert to support and to party. He brings a new meaning to master of ceremonies as well as that New Orleans band sound. That Mardi Gras in a bottle explodes the roof off with joy and laughter. I’m coming to this concert not just for a good time but for joy and happiness. I’m not going to a concert with fans but to a party with friends. I just need to know what dish to bring.

Jonas Brothers

November 12, PPG Paints Arena

Tell me you’re a Disney Channel kid without telling me you’re a Disney Channel kid. When we talk about some of the best performers of our generation, we can’t have the conversation without mentioning the Jonas Brothers. Not only did I grow up listening to them and watching them grow up with me, but I got a chance to see them branch out and come into their own. The separation of the boys, to be honest, is one of the big draws to this show. Not only will it feel like a reunion tour, but, we will get to dance and sing to their solo hits as well. From mid-2000’s hits to current ones, the Jonas Brothers have the catalog, talent, and experience to promise a show that will have the adult in you doing a choreographed dance with the kid in you.

Story by Frzy
Photo Courtesy of Laura Petrilla

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10 Spritz Cocktails to Try Instead of the Aperol Spritz

By

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June 27, 2025

A red watermelon and orange spritz sit on wicker tray on an orange picnic table.

No hate to the Aperol Spritz, we’re big fans, but sometimes you want a spritz cocktail that shakes things up a bit. We asked mixologists Cameron at Con Alma and Spencer at The Warren to help us get creative this summer and push outside the bounds of Aperol. Their results end with sensational cocktail recipes that play with flavors of the season you don’t always see such as passionfruit, sage, cardamom, and yellow chartreuse. Needless to say, you’ll find yourself impressed from start to finish as these vibrant and bubbly cocktails come to life.

Taking Creative Liberty

While these recipes are from professional mixologists, we invite you to get creative with the recipes to make them your own. That’s the whole point of spritz summer anyways! Feel free to exchange or add garnishes, toss in various simple syrups, or even change up types of liquor and wine. Who knows what magic you may create when you let go and let your palate take over.

Three glasses each with a garden-fresh spritz with watermelon, flower, and blackberry garnishes.

Spritz Cocktails by Cameron Kasraie at Con Alma

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Strawberry Aperol Spritz

Author: Cameron Kasraie

Description

A bright and fruity twist on the classic Aperol spritz, featuring strawberry-infused Aperol for a naturally sweet and slightly tart depth of flavor.

Ingredients

Scale

2 oz strawberry-Infused Aperol
3 oz sparkling wine (try with both rosé and white, depending on preference)
1 oz club soda
.25 oz lemon juice

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Carefully stir all ingredients together.

Strawberry Aperol Spritz with Bianco Vermouth

Author: Cameron Kasraie

Description

A more sophisticated take on the Strawberry Aperol Spritz, with the added complexity of bianco vermouth, balancing sweetness with nuanced depth.

Ingredients

Scale

2 oz strawberry-Infused Aperol
1 oz bianco vermouth
3 oz sparkling wine (best with white)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Carefully stir all ingredients together.

Hendrick’s Gin and Infused Bianco Vermouth Spritz

Author: Cameron Kasraie

Description

A botanical delight, combining the cucumber and rose notes of Hendrick’s gin with the aromatic complexity of bianco vermouth.

Ingredients

Scale

.25-.5 oz gin
2 oz bianco vermouth
3 oz sparkling wine (white will most likely be best)
1 oz club soda

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Carefully stir together.

Four people cheer glasses of summer garden-fresh spritzes in orange, red, and white colors.

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Rosemary Amaro Spritz

Author: Cameron Kasraie

Description

Aromatic and herbal, this spritz features the earthy depth of amaro and the fresh, woody essence of rosemary.

Ingredients

Scale

1.5 oz amaro (such as Averna)
.5 oz rosemary simple syrup
3 oz sparkling white wine
1 oz soda water

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Instructions

Carefully stir all ingredients together.

Blackberry Spritz Hugo

Author: Cameron Kasraie

Description

A juicy and herbal blend of elderflower and blackberries, with a touch of mint for a refreshing finish.

Ingredients

Scale

1.5 oz St. Elder
2 mint leaves, muddled
2 blackberries, muddled
3 to 5 oz prosecco

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Instructions

Carefully stir all ingredients together.

Sparkling water is poured into a wine glass to make an orange garden-fresh spritz beside a clear cocktail shaker.

Spritz Cocktails by Spencer Warren at The Warren

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Watermelon Spritz

Author: Spencer Warren

Description

Sweet and juicy, this spritz highlights the refreshing flavor of watermelon, balanced by the slight bitterness of Aperol.

Ingredients

Scale

2 oz watermelon juice
2 oz Aperol
3 oz prosecco
Garnish with a slice of watermelon

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Instructions

Carefully mix all ingredients together.
Garnish with watermelon slice.

Sippin’ on the Spritz

Author: Spencer Warren

Description

A tropical and spiced twist on the classic spritz, featuring passionfruit, cinnamon, and a hint of citrus. Shake all ingredients together.

Ingredients

Scale

2 oz Aperol
2 oz rosé
.5 oz passionfruit
.5 oz lime
.25 oz cinnamon syrup
Soda
Garnish with an orange wedge

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Instructions

Shake ingredients all together and pour over ice into glass of your choice.
Top with soda.
Garnish with an orange wedge.

Spritzer Sisters

Author: Spencer Warren

Description

A fragrant and bittersweet spritz, featuring sage syrup and gentian amaro, complemented by the floral notes of Prosecco.

Ingredients

Scale

1 oz Lofi Gentian Amaro
.5 oz gin
.5 oz lime
.5 oz sage syrup
1 dash cardamom bitters
Prosecco
Garnish with a blood orange wedge

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Instructions

Pour ingredients over ice in a wine glass.
Top with prosecco.
Garnish with blood orange wedge.

Two people cheers orange glasses of spritzes with orange slice garnishes.

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Sinner’s Spritz

Author: Spencer Warren

Description

A rich and bittersweet spritz, where sweet vermouth meets Luxardo Maraschino for a deep, cherry-like complexity.

Ingredients

Scale

1.5 oz sweet vermouth
.5 oz Luxardo Maraschino
2 dashes orange bitters
2 oz prosecco or 1 oz soda
Orange twist garnish

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Instructions

Stir together.
Pour over ice.
Top with prosecco or soda.
Garnish with an orange twist.

Words to Live By

Author: Spencer Warren

Description

A bold and intriguing cocktail, combining the herbal and citrusy depth of yellow chartreuse with the bright character of tequila.

Ingredients

.5 oz Blanco tequila
.5 oz yellow chartreuse
.5 oz Luxardo Maraschino
.5 oz lime
Chandon Garden Spritz

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Instructions

Shake, pour over ice
Top with Chandon Garden Spritz.

Recipes by Cameron Kasraie at Con Alma and Spencer Warren at The Warren
Production and Styling by Camden Leeds
Photography by Joey Kennedy
Linens by Party Mosaic

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Throw a Garden-Fresh Summer Spritz Party

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June 27, 2025

Whether you’re growing your own ingredients or sourcing locally from nearby gardens, creating a garden-fresh spritz is not only easy but also a delightful way to celebrate the flavors of summer and bring friends together.

Prepare for a Garden-Fresh Spritz Party in the Summer

As the sun beats down on long summer days, there’s no better way to cool off and connect with friends than by sipping a refreshing spritz. But why settle for store-bought ingredients when your garden offers a bounty of fresh, seasonal produce perfect for spritz-making? We planned a party with some of our closest friends at the Monterey Street Park in the Northside neighborhood here in Pittsburgh, featuring homemade ingredients and cocktail recipes created by local mixologists Cameron Kasraie at Con Alma and Spencer Warren from The Warren.

Using Local, Fresh Ingredients for Your Sprtiz

Summer is the season for fresh fruits, herbs, and flowers, and they’re all within reach when you tap into your local neighborhood gardens. Pittsburgh certainly has plenty of gardens to choose from to set the scene. With a little creativity, you can make a delicious, refreshing spritz that celebrates what’s growing around you. The best part? You don’t need to be a seasoned mixologist to pull it off — spritzes are among the simplest drinks to craft. As stated by Cameron, “With lower alcohol drinks, it’s easier to pair flavors together and make a drink taste good.” Even beginners can make them with ease.

A charcuterie board with meats, cheese, and fruit sit on an orange picnic table.

A Drink to Gather People Together

One of the best things about garden-fresh spritzes is their ability to bring people together. They’re incredibly easy to make, meaning you can spend less time mixing drinks and more time enjoying the company of your guests. Making spritzes with locally-grown ingredients is a great way to support your neighborhood garden network and embrace the seasonal flavors that are so abundant during the summer months. Plus, sharing a drink made with fresh, hand-picked produce feels especially satisfying — a little slice of the season, served in a glass.

A group of people stand behind a table shot through an opening in the trees.

Creating a Sense of Community

Perhaps one of the most delightful aspects of using garden-grown ingredients for your spritzes is the opportunity to connect with your neighbors. Many local communities have garden programs or neighborhood co-ops where you share homegrown produce. If you don’t have a garden of your own, this can be a fun way to gather fresh ingredients while also supporting others in your area. And don’t forget Pittsburgh’s many farmers’ markets!

A group of three people cheers garden-fresh spritzes while sitting on a plaid picnic blanket in grass.

Making Your Garden-Fresh Spritz

The beauty of a spritz is its versatility — whether you’re crafting a watermelon spritz or an herb infusion, the formula is the same. “I wanted to make cocktails that were easily accessible to people that don’t have ingredients that have to be specially ordered,” Cameron shared. “The biggest thing in making something at home is the general template of the ingredients rather than the recipes themselves. They’re a simple fixing of gin, herbs, and club soda. But once you get comfortable, you can move forward with more complex flavors and ingredients.”

Have Fun With Your Spritz

The spritz is more than just a cocktail; it’s a celebration of light, bubbly, and refreshing flavors. Traditionally made with fruit, herbs, sugar, and soda water or Prosecco, the spritz has evolved into a dynamic and versatile category of cocktails. Spritzes have even veered into cocktail territory with gin, vodka, or tequila. This collection of recipes elevates the classic spritz concept with infused spirits, botanical elements, and adventurous flavor pairings. Join us on our exploration of spritz cocktails that embrace all liquors, crafting an effervescent experience that delights the senses.

Here’s a Simple Method to Get Your Spritzes Started:

Prepare the fruit: Start by muddling fresh fruit in the bottom of a glass or cocktail shaker. For example, chop up watermelon or mash blackberries to release their juice.
Add fresh herbs: Toss in your chosen herbs (a few sprigs of mint or basil work beautifully). Gently muddle the herbs to release their fragrance and oils.
Sweeten (optional): If you prefer a sweeter drink, add a touch of simple syrup or honey to taste. Fresh fruit usually adds plenty of natural sweetness, so don’t overdo it.
Measure out the spirits: Boozy versions of a spritz add flavor with Aperol, vermouth, amari, Luxardo, St. Elder, and other delicious (and sometimes colorful) bottles. Some even add a hit of liquors like gin, tequila, or vodka.
Add ice and sparkles: Now fill the glass with ice, then top off your concoction with sparkling water or club soda. Some spritzes go with sparkling wine or Prosecco for an extra pop.
Garnish and enjoy: Garnish your spritz with slices of fresh fruit, a sprig of herb, as well as a few edible flowers. Stir gently and enjoy your garden-fresh creation with friends.

A person holds a glass of summer garden-fresh spritz in the air against a trees background.

Click here for a fantastic list of spritz recipes to try at your next summer gathering!

Story by Lindsay Anne Herring
Production and Styling by Camden Leeds
Photography by Joey Kennedy
Linens by Party Mosaic
Drinks by Spencer Warren, The Warren, and Cameron Kasraie, Con Alma

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How to Brew the Best Cup of Coffee According to Pittsburgh Baristas

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June 27, 2025

A person brews coffee at home with a pour-over method using a kettle and coffee pot and filter.

Ever wonder why your favorite coffee shop brew tastes so much better than your homemade cup? It’s not just magic – it’s science alongside a few expert tricks. We sat down with two of Pittsburgh’s finest baristas, TJ from Commonplace Coffee and Matt Marietti from De Fer Coffee & Tea, to unlock the secrets of brewing the best possible cup right in your own kitchen. From demystifying equipment to perfecting your grind and selecting the ideal beans, they’re sharing everything you need to transform your morning ritual. The two even discuss some personal tips only true coffee pros know. Get ready to elevate your home coffee game and save a buck by skipping the coffee shop every now and then.

How to Brew the Best Cup of Coffee at Home

TJ from Commonplace Coffee’s Tips

What’s Your Go-To Way to Brew Coffee at Home?

I love using the AeroPress brewer at home. You don’t need some of the extra gear, which means it’s less of a heavy upfront cost. Plus, it is so easy to take camping or on a bicycle trip. All you really need is a grinder and hot water.

How Do You Grind Your Beans?

As long as there is a burr set that the coffee travels through, it is likely going to do a good job of creating proper surface area for the water to extract solubles from. The key to grinding is to align the particle size with the contact time between water and coffee.

What Water Should You Use?

The water should have some layer of purification to address taste, odor, and chlorine. If you are brewing espresso you will want to have a deeper conversation around what the mineral content in the water is. There is such a delicate balance between needing minerals for extraction while wanting to have limited mineral content for the boiler (as the water temp gets a bit higher in the espresso machine).

What Beans Should You Buy?

The best coffee beans are those that have been carefully nurtured at every stage of the value chain. This means from the trees they grew on and the environment they thrived in, to the ripeness at harvest, the method of processing, grading, and sorting. Their journey—from origin to transport, roasting, and finally, to the precise extraction of flavor—if done with care results in the best bean. The finest beans tell a story, one of sustainability for those who cultivated them and of a meaningful experience for those who savor the final cup.

How Do You Take Your Coffee at Home?

I like to start my day with a cappuccino—it’s a perfect showcase for the barista’s craft. I also enjoy drip coffee, without additives, as it honors the work of the producers at every step of the coffee’s journey.

Matt Maretti from De Fer Coffee & Tea’s Tips

What’s Your Go-To Way to Brew Coffee at Home?

For a relaxing, thoughtful cup of coffee on a weekend, I prefer a Chemex. It’s a timeless design, looks awesome on the shelf, and comes in several sizes. I have a three-cup size and a six-cup size. Both of these use Chemex’s bonded paper, which is very thick and filters out most fine particles and many oils, for a very clean cup.

I like this brew method best for lighter, brighter coffees where you’re hoping to taste the interesting fruity and floral notes intrinsic in light, higher-end coffee. If I have family or friends over and have to serve more than a few people, I stick with a trusty Hamilton Beach drip coffee maker. In fact, it’s one that was a Wirecutter recommendation about eight years ago when I bought it for $50. Home brewers have exploded in variety, price, and the features they offer. I can’t speak to many of those. But for a nice bold cup of chocolate-y medium roast coffee from Central or South America, I think most basic brewers available these days do a great job. I think the grinder and the coffee are ultimately more important than the brew method.

I also like to recommend a french press for people who like bold coffee with big body. Nearly any medium or dark coffee with a fine to medium grind will turn out well if steeped for four minutes. I like to grind finer than most people for a french press as I don’t mind a slightly cloudy cup if it’s flavor I’m going for.

How Do You Grind Your Beans?

I rarely make coffee at home, so I typically use a Varia brand hand grinder. It has a nice set of burrs and is easy to use. A lot of our team uses and recommends Baratza Encore or Baratza Virtuoso for automatic home grinders. Both work super well and come with great customer service. Plus, they last for a long time. We sell quite a few of them in-store.

An important thing to remember is to make sure you’re grinding pretty close to when you’re brewing the coffee, while also ensuring that your coffee is not TOO fresh. Coffee stays full of CO2 after roasting and slowly degasses for the weeks and months afterward. When water comes in contact with the coffee, that CO2 comes out (in the form of bubbles) and the water flows through the coffee as a result, failing to dissolve the organic compounds that will make the coffee taste great.

Under-extracted coffee is astringent, thin, and bitter. So those bubbles you’re seeing when you’re making a pour-over? Those aren’t necessarily what you want to see. The way around that is to make sure your coffee is at least 5-7 days off the roast and if you’re making a pour-over, pour a small volume of water onto the bed of beans and let it sit for about 30 seconds before continuing. This is called the “bloom” and it should get that locked up CO2 out of there so your coffee is now ready to be extracted properly.

What Water Should You Use?

A few of my team members (and super coffee nerds i know) use distilled water with the addition of crucial minerals in the form of a specially-formulated mineral pack you dissolve into the water before heating it. The main brand for those minerals is Third Wave Water. I just use filtered water from my fridge. You don’t want your water to be “too clean” because the coffee solids need to bond to something to extract. But, I don’t think many of us have to worry about our water being “too clean” in Pittsburgh. Main thing is to make sure you’re removing chlorine with some kind of filtration, but leaving the good stuff.

What Beans Should You Buy?

Ultimately, whichever ones you like the best! I guess I could add, whichever ones you like the best and ideally were farmed, harvested, and processed responsibly. Of course that’s a loaded one but coffee (especially cheap coffee) can be pretty rough on the environment and the people further up the supply chain who create it. The farmers, harvesters, producers should all earn a fair living and not destroy the land for future generations.

I wish I could say there was a silver bullet like “fair trade” or “organic” or “rainforest alliance certified” or “bird friendly.” Those are all great things, but in my opinion, none of them are the only solution. So, choose beans you love, ideally roasted by someone you trust to source them without exploiting anyone along the supply chain. Again, this is much easier said than done. We, as roasters and importers, are still learning what that means and trying to ensure we’re doing that ourselves, every day.

How Do You Take Your Coffee at Home?

Black if it’s good coffee that’s well-roasted. But if I’m somewhere that I know that’s not going to be the case, a dash of cream goes a long way.

Story by Kylie Thomas
Photo Courtesy of Yanal Tayyem

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Refreshing Summer Wines for Sipping on the Porch

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Samuel

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June 26, 2025