The Pittsburgh Renaissance Festival kicked off at the end of August, letting people of all ages live out their childhood wonder of centuries gone by. One of the best parts of the festival is enjoying a mug of mead or beer in the jaunty atmosphere. But where do you go after the festival ends to find that type of vibe? Thankfully, Pittsburgh has a number of bars and cider houses prepared to take the knight in you back to ye olden days.
Arsenal Cider House
Mead, cider, and more mead, oh my! Mead is a central part of medieval times and the more mead selections, the better. Arsenal Cider House has a rotating menu of delicious meads with a lively venue to match. Their Lawrenceville location even has a bar outside, so you can become one with nature.
Mullaney’s Harp and Fiddle
Nothing screams medieval like an Irish pub. Located in the heart of the Strip District, this hopping pub sets the perfect ambiance with authentic beer, food, and even live music. Stop by late for a pub sing-along with a classic Guinness in hand.
KingView Meadhouse and Winery
Set back in the hills of Mt. Lebanon, this is the place to feel like a true medieval Viking. Whether you’re enjoying one of their 40 beers, ciders, or meads on tap or digging into a hot bowl of soup, this candle-lit tavern will make you feel right at home and back in the Middle Ages all at the same time.
The Woods House
The historic Scottish pub vibe is the whole point of The Woods House in Hazelwood’s historic neighborhood. Built inside the old John Woods House, the pub has various Scottish delicacies and plenty of beer on tap. However, this pub’s decor is the best part, with fireplaces, stone walls, and low lighting to deepen the “olde tyme” atmosphere.
The Speakeasy
The closest modern equivalent to a dark dungeon bar is probably a speakeasy, and this one in the basement of the Omni William Penn Hotel is simply gorgeous. The Speakeasy carries a variety of local brewed beers and ciders on tap, and plenty of liquor choices. It’s not exactly ancient, but the low lights and luscious seating will make you feel like a king.
Story by Kylie Thomas / Photography by Chef Sarah Baugher (@sarah_baugher) and Jassimyn Broe (@jassimyn)
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