When you’re home in Pittsburgh for Thanksgiving, the city’s bars offer not only a place to gather with old friends but also a place to escape your family when the questions become a bit too much. (No grandma, there is no new man in our life!) The best part about Pittsburgh as a city is it delivers both upscale sophistication and cozy neighborhood charm throughout its bar scene. Chic, elegant lounges, speakeasies, and laid-back dives all provide the perfect backdrop for catching up with old pals or simply savoring a quiet moment away from the holiday bustle. All depending on what kind of atmosphere you desire, of course.
Bars to Gather at Over Thanksgiving Break in Pittsburgh
5 Elegant, Upscale Bars to Visit Over Thanksgiving Break
Spirits and Tales (The Oaklander Hotel)
Not only is this bar open for Thanksgiving but their cocktail menu is one that’ll have you dreaming happy thoughts rather than family woes. Inside The Oaklander Hotel, Spirits and Tales blends high-end mixology with imaginative presentation. The intimate, sleek interior is perfect for savoring craft cocktails with friends or a loved one as you look over the lights of Oakland.
fl.2 (The Fairmont Pittsburgh)
The drink program at fl.2 is as sophisticated as its interior, making classic cocktails a local fixture. Guests can enjoy small-batch estate wines or craft cocktails that showcase attention to balance and presentation. Not to mention, much of the bar is full of local spirits to ensure quality in every sip.
Grapperia
A cozy, Italian-inspired bar in bustling Lawrenceville, Grapperia specializes in, you guessed it, grappa and amari. Their cocktail menu leans into these unique spirits, and the ambiance is warm, welcoming, and slightly old-world chic. We’re sure you’ll try a taste of something new that may just become a favorite.
The Speakeasy (Omni William Penn Hotel)
Channeling Prohibition-era vibes, this hidden bar in the Omni’s basement is one of the city’s best kept secrets. The noir setting matches the highball and gimlets that star on the menu. Imagine plush leather seating, dimly lit chandeliers, and vintage décor that transports you to the 1920s.
Bridges & Bourbon
Another staple of Downtown (possibly one of the best meeting points for its central location), Bridges & Bourbon is known for craft cocktails on top of an impressive bourbon selection. The stylish, modern interior and thoughtful seasonal drinks make it a great place to toast being home for the holidays.
5 Cozy Bars to Visit Over Thanksgiving Break
Poetry Lounge
In Millvale, Poetry Lounge feels like a dive and a speakeasy at once so it’s your perfect in-between. It’s literary-themed, with friendly bartenders and strong cocktails. It’s a place where locals can go to unwind, play pinball, catch open mic nights, or simply enjoy a quiet drink.
Hidden Harbor
Over in Squirrel Hill, Hidden Harbor is the laid-back, tiki‑bar you’ve been searching for. With soft lighting, island-inspired cocktails, and a relaxing atmosphere, it’s a charming spot to unwind especially when you meet up with old friends. Plus their bites are great to split amongst a group.
Shadyside Hideaway Bar
Shadyside Hideaway Bar is exactly what its name promises: a cozy, unpretentious dive that still makes sure each sip is worth your dollar. The bar literally hides over on Highland Avenue with an intimate space, dim lighting, and a few narrow booths. It’s one of those places that no matter what cocktail you fancy, it’s going to be a solid, enjoyable drink.
Bar Botanico
Step into a lush, greenhouse-inspired interior with hanging vines and warm candlelight at Bar Botanico in Lawrenceville. Outside of their regular cocktail program, they also feature zero-proof spirits like Seedlip and Cut Above, so their mocktails are thoughtfully crafted and complex. This means you can indulge in a beverage that’s not just soda with lime.
Dee’s Cafe
It wouldn’t be a homecoming without a trip to Dee’s. A longtime South Side institution, this bar is not one but two floors of character. The ground floor includes a U‑shaped bar and plenty of booths for socializing. Then, the second floor lines the walls and floor with darts, ping-pong, and pool tables for a no-fuss hang out with friends.
Story by Kylie Thomas
Photo Courtesy of John Arano
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