Triple the rivers, triple the fun! Pittsburgh is home to the Allegheny, the Ohio, and the tongue-twister—say it with me—the Monongahela. Or you could keep it simple and just say the Mon. Whichever river you prefer, Pittsburgh is one of the best cities for outdoor water sports with custom cruises, paddle boarding, and more. Here are 10 Pittsburgh water activities to try on the Three Rivers.
The Gateway Clipper is a Pittsburgh classic that gives you spectacular views of PNC Park, Acrisure Stadium, and the Point State Park fountain. With options for dining cruises, sightseeing cruises, dance & music cruises, or kids’ cruises, the Gateway Fleet has something for everyone.
Boarding options include North Park Lake Boat House, James Sharp Landing, or Heinz Key Landing
Float and paddleboard your way through North Park, Sharpsburg, or a pop-up location downtown with Venture Outdoors’ kayaking program. Every rental goes to community and youth outdoor programs, so you’re also supporting a good cause.
Enter through Daniel G. and Carol L. Kamin Science Center
Get under the waves with the Daniel G. and Carol L. Kamin Science Center’s submarine, included with admission to the museum. This submarine might not go anywhere physically, but it’s a trip back in time — the USS Requin originally set out just days before the end of World War II!
Boarding at North Shore Riverfront Park. With prior arrangements, boarding can also operate from Allegheny Landing, the David L. Lawrence Convention Center, Point State Park, and the South Shore Riverfront Park
Pittsburgh doesn’t just have a sports team called the Pirates—we also have our very own pirate ship. Pittsburgh pirate ship The Kraken is fun for adults and kids alike. Founded by Commodore Evan Weaver who created it to give back to the community after over a decade of Naval experience, so you’re sailing with a pro!
Boarding sites vary. Riders can go up the Allegheny River to the Highland Park Bridge, to the Ohio River to the West End Bridge, or up the Monongahela River to the Fort Pitt Bridge
For the adrenaline junkies out there, rent a jet ski from downtown and make big waves in any of the Three Rivers. Call for 10% off bookings for 4 jet skis or more to take a group of friends.
100 Waterfront Drive. Accessible by car with parking on Washington’s Landing or by foot from the Strip District
If you’re squeamish about boats, here’s some waterfront dining as an option! Head over to Washington’s Landing, a little island oasis on the Allegheny between the Strip District and Troy Hill for seafood and great views at Redfin Blues.
Okay, so this one is not technically on the Three Rivers but we’ll still count it anyways. Right along the North Shore Riverfront Park next to PNC Park you’ll find stone steps with water flowing over them. Kiddos can get their feet wet and cool down in the water while adults take in the views on the water’s edge. Plus, we’re pretty sure it uses water from the Allegheny River anyways.
Board at Landing Marina at 238 Station Square Dr, Pittsburgh, 15219
Looking for an intimate boat experience on the Three Rivers? Rush Hour Boat Charter accommodates one to six passengers on a comfortable 34′ Cruiser Yacht. These private charters go at a smooth, three to five knot pace with a bring your own food and beer policy. Whether you’re sailgating a Pirates’ game, celebrating a birthday, or just taking in the sights, Rush Hour is the way to set sail.
Other than running Kayak Pittsburgh, Venture Outdoors also puts on a number fo outdoors events on the water. In case you don’t feel up to exploring on your own, Venture Outdoors shows you how to kayak, paddleboard, or even fish. They also feature special occasions like paddling under the Fourth of July fireworks or a full moon.
The 4th of July is this Friday which means the week ahead in Pittsburgh is full of red, white, and blue for the whole family. From June 30 to July 6, the city is packing its theaters, bars, and museums with patriotic events and beyond to keep you busy this long weekend. So don’t worry if you don’t have plans for the family that’s coming in from out of town or the kids who are getting antsy from being off of school, we’ve got you covered.
Marty McFly and Doc Brown are back in this on-stage musical adaptation of the movie, Back to the Future. Follow Marty McFly as he accidentally travels back to 1955 with Doc Brown’s time machine. As he’s propelled back, he starts altering history and has to race to set things right. Prepare for an electrifying theatrical experience full of iconic costumes, thrilling props, and a score that takes you right back to this 80s classic.
Unleash your inner sorcerer at Wizards and Wands. This fully immersive experience takes you to a mystical potion lab where you’ll learn to combine ingredients, stir, and witness your creations bubble, fizz, and glow. Sip on two handcrafted cocktails (with non-alcoholic options available), surrounded by floating candles and music. Plus, engage in wizard-themed games, solve magical riddles, and compete in spellcasting challenges for a chance to win prizes.
Kick off your Independence Day celebration at Nemacolin with an unforgettable Fourth of July Weekend, running from Thursday to Sunday. Guests can dive into an all-American experience filled with poolside adventures, fantastic live music, and tantalizing dishes. The festivities culminate on Saturday, July 5th, with the signature Fourth of July BBQ at The Peak featuring a menu of summer staples.
Join the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra for their annual Americana Concert, a musical tribute to military personnel and veterans. This special program celebrates American music with iconic patriotic selections and cinematic scores. Immerse yourself in pieces like Copland’s Fanfare for the Common Man, selections from John Williams’ Lincoln, the Armed Forces Salute, and America the Beautiful.
An explosive way to experience the Fourth of July with the Carngie Science Center. This celebration is complete with a reserved viewing area for the fireworks, lively entertainment, and a cash bar. Guests can also explore five floors of exhibits, enjoy live theater shows, and discover the Mental Health: Mind Matters exhibition. The experience also features special science demonstrations, the Stars and Fireworks Over Pittsburgh show in the Buhl Planetarium, and a screening of Ocean Paradise with popcorn in The Rangos Giant Cinema.
Story by Kylie Thomas Featured Photo Courtesy of Nemacolin
Though city life has its benefits, Mt. Lebanon proves that a small town can punch far above its weight for restaurants, bars, and cafés. A township of just 34,000 people is home to some of the most diverse restaurants in the city, with Uzbek, Lebanese, and also Greek fare easily available. The town locals call “Mt. Lebo” is a cute, quaint oasis in the hills, arguably the center of suburban life in the South Hills. Make it the start of a night out, heading later towards the Hilltop or the South Side, or take it slow with a brunch or a happy hour to see what Mt. Lebanon has to offer.
From the chef behind Chaykhana in the West End, this Uzbek restaurant has a friendly-yet-upscale atmosphere. The word “piyola” means teacup in Uzbek, so ceramics line the wall in the gently lit space where you can enjoy plov, a Uzbek classic akin to rice pilaf that has been heavily spiced, toasted, and cooked with lams and carrots. Also look for kebabs, samosas, and honey cakes. If you’re new to Uzbek food, Piyola is a great place to start—but you can also explore so many other Uzbek restaurants in Pittsburgh.
A Mt. Lebo favorite, Bistro 19 uses local produce and meats to craft a refreshing and decadent menu. What meat eater wouldn’t love a center cut filet mignon with a veal demi-glace, Boursin cheese, chive whipped potatoes, and grilled broccolini? And what pescatarian could pass up the Chilean sea bass with a horseradish crust, macadamia basmati rice, and a Napa slaw? When considering Bistro 19’s menu, think of all your favorites, say French onion soup, prepared with both comfort and fine cuisine in mind. The cocktail menu is also a treasure trove.
Ever wondered how Mt. Lebanon got to be named after a mountain range on the other side of the earth? (The original Mt. Lebanon is in northern Lebanon). One Rev. Joseph Clokey brought back two Lebanese cedars and planted them in front of his house on Bower Hill Rd. That was a bit bold, because the only place where those cedars natively grow is the Lebanese mountain range. So, get a taste of the neighborhood’s namesake Lebanon at Aladdin’s, where you can try Lebanese tabbouleh, fattoush, and baklava for dessert served with a hot mint tea.
If you know the term leoparding when it comes to pizza, then you need to take a trip to Il Pizzaiolo. Pizza aficionados swear by Il Pizzaiolo —their wood-fired was built from hand-made bricks and volcanic sand from Mt. Vesuvius — and beyond that, their pasta dishes, meat mains, and arancini are equally delicious. They use San Marzano tomatoes and Mozzarella di Bufala straight from Italy, as well as preparing fresh mozzarella in house. The vibe hits on a high-end, with a robust wine list and posh décor, so it’s a great date night spot. Plus, they have an excellent tiramisu to top off the evening.
Ordinarily, a Night Out guide doesn’t include coffee shops and bakeries, but Mt. Lebanon is the exception because its cafés are just so good. Located on Mayberry-like Beverly Road, Mediterra is bustling, it’s fresh, it’s real food prepared with intention — and on a warm evening, it’s a great place to sit outside and toast your compatriots. Everyone in Pittsburgh who has good taste knows Mediterra. Get yourself over there now.
What started in 2020 as an online boutique selling high-quality Greek imports, like olive oils, became a lively café where all the bread, pastries, and pitas are made daily, in house. Diners love their chicken souvlaki and Aegean Niçoise, and the Mediterranean eggs benedict (served during brunch, weekends, 8 am to 2 pm). The whipped Greek coffee is also delightful.
Anyone who grew up in a predominantly Latin neighborhood can identify the smell of conchas, the colorful Mexican sweet bread is the perfect treat, from a mile away. Panaderia Jazmin, a Mexican bakery, makes preservative-free sweets like tres leches cake, churros, as well as abanicos (puff pastry). Brunch and lunch are served every day from 8 am to 3 pm and includes a bevy of savory dishes: think tamales with mole sauce, huevos rancheros, and flautas. Panaderia Jazmin is Pittsburgh’s first Mexican bakery, but we hope to see many more.
Orbis Caffe is like that friend who is up on all the food trends and can’t wait to share them with you. Where else can you get a full menu of Conservas (tinned fish), such as a plate of Limfjord blue mussels with dill and fennel seeds, served with pickles, butter, and toast? Or elaborate cheese and meat boards, curated with ingredients from across the globe? From Thursday to Saturday, Orbis is open until 9, one of the few cafés that also has a full menu of beer, wine, and cocktails, serving a later crowd.
If you are a fan vinyl recordings and fine coffee — and of other people who enjoy vinyl recordings and fine coffee — then Needle & Bean should be on your Pittsburgh bucket list. Here, you can sip organic, fair trade coffee, and casually browse through a curated selection of vinyl. Owner Michael Butala has been an avid record collector for 20 years and we are glad that he decided to bring his passion to the public at Needle & Bean.
Luma entices with classic dishes prepared with a fresh spin. Fan favorites include the blue crab bisque, a baked brie app, and also main dishes that include veal Marsala and braised short rib pasta. Their bucolic outdoor, covered deck is an ideal spot to finish your Barossa Valley Shiraz, or one of 30 other wine selections, as the sun begins to set.
The Mt. Lebanon Taproom looks like a mix of a brew pub and a pizzeria, which is perfect as it’s a cross of a brew pub and a pizzeria, when East End Brewing Company crossed the Mon and paired with their sister company, East End Chewing, to create an outpost on Washington Road. Ahh, like the peanut butter and jelly for adults, nothing pairs better than pizza and beer. With a rotating selection of 14 beers (plus wine and draft cocktails) and pizza sold by the 3- or 6- slice orders for Sicilian style, or build-your-own flatbread-style ‘zas. Each week, the Taproom also offers two T-Stop Special pizzas, named for the Mt. Lebanon station of the light rail system.
With some 20 cocktails on the menu, a bourbon-forward bar, and the lights down low, Mullet’s is ready to meet your evening’s needs. Named for the brother-and-sister team of Colin and Marissa Mullet, this hip cocktail bar also has an entirely gluten-free kitchen, making it an accessible option for a night out with a celiac friend. Mullett’s food menu is spare, yet hits all the marks, with small plates such as brisket crostini, crispy Brussel sprouts, wings, and smoky spinach and artichoke dip, and handhelds such fried chicken, bahn mi, and a smashburger.
The Saloon has been a hopping bar in Mt. Lebanon for so long, Pittsburghers in their sixties might recall the days of trying to sneak in with fake IDs and getting turned away. With worn wood-plank floors, stained-glass chandeliers, and complimentary popcorn, the Saloon is like that old pair of jeans that always feels just right.
The bar opened in 1976, the year after Mt. Lebanon shed its dry-town status, with just one beer on tap. Now, there are some 30 draft beers. The menu sticks to straight-forward bar food, with the bonus that Thursday through Saturday, late night offerings are at the ready for snackers craving provolone sticks, wings, or tater tots just before the clock strikes midnight. Recent updates include accordion windows that open to the boulevard as well as rooftop seating.
Before Hitchhiker caught a ride to Sharpsburg to open its expansive 15-barrel brewhouse, the brewers were crafting in their Mt. Lebanon basement. What is now called the Mt. Lebanon Tap Room serves ten Hitchhiker beers — like the Bane of Existence (IPA), the Western Sun (sour), and True (pilsner)— plus an array of accompaniments, including a charcuterie and cheese board, salmon jerky, Amish hard pretzels, sweet and salty nuts, and Leona’s Ice cream. Food trucks are also on rotation.
Take a look at the rest of our neighborhood Night Out Series:
Palm Palm, the new California and South American coastal cuisine concept by Herky and Lisa Pollock along with partners Chef Ed and Amanda Smith, is now accepting reservations for your own escape to the shore. This Eastside restaurant located at 5996 Centre Ave is one of the hottest openings of this year and their public seatings are officially set to begin July 6.
Palm Palm Restaurant Set to Open July 6
The space promises an experience that takes you away to jet-set destinations like Palm Springs and Palm Beach but in a more luxurious way. Rather than spending time on a crowded, hot beach, you’ll find yourself sitting alongside glorious photographs and paintings of the tropics as well as mood-setting lighting. A seat at one of their tables or on the picturesque patio leaves you with an overall feeling of relief and comfort. There are also two private Chef’s Tables available to give you a ringside view of the culinary action: you can watch in wonder as your coastal paradise comes to life step by step.
Our Editor-in-Chief Keith Recker got an exclusive look at the inner workings of this soon-to-be buzzing establishment. “Palm Palm shows all the signs of being a new style statement in Pittsburgh, drawing references from the great mid-century Palm Springs photographs of Slim Aarons and other images of swanky chic,” says Recker. “The team is preparing a menu and bar program that beautifully matches the visuals.”
Coastal Cuisine in Pittsburgh
The globally-inspired menu at Palm Palm is what sets them apart from other restaurants. Each dish takes the vibrancy of coastal life and brings into a shareable plate form. While the menu will rotate seasonally, there are core favorites always available that highlight fresh seafood, local produce, and coastal flavors.
TABLE Magazine Publisher Justin Matase and husband Elie Aoun joined a private preview of Palm Palm earlier in the week. There’s something exciting and evocative about the restaurant that the two took in.
“At Palm Palm, the light-filled space with mid-century mod vibes brings a welcome new experience to the East End,” says Matase. “The menu is fun and promises anything but the ordinary. Don’t miss the chance to relive your childhood with their twist on an old favorite: truffle Spaghettios.”
On top of elevated nostalgia, Palm Palm also plans to premiere dishes like Sushi Tots which come in a poke-style featuring crispy sushi rice tots, big eye tuna, cucumber scallion, and house poke sauce. Or, their Street Corn Taquitos with roasted corn, blend cheese, and creamy avocado. Plus, the cocktail program closely aligns as it features upgrades to traditional tropical cocktails. Try the Palm Margarita, a crisp and complex twist on the classic margarita with cold-pressed green juice and a hibiscus salt rim. Then, dive into the deep end with the Fire & Fresa Mezcal, a vibrant, smoky concoction blending fire-roasted red pepper, strawberry, lime, and tajín.
How to Make a Reservation at Palm Palm
To get your own look at this paradise, head to Open Table to make your reservation from July 6 and on. It’s time to slip on your sandals, don your finest sunhat, and then descend into the decadence of island indulgence at Palm Palm.
Story by Kylie Thomas Photos Courtesy of Laura Petrilla
You’ll never have to park twice in one night when you combine dining and entertainment plans this summer at Rivers Casino – Pittsburgh’s one-stop destination for all things gaming, eating, and entertainment.
Make It Dinner and a Show at Rivers Casino This Summer
With eight restaurants and lounges on property, enjoy bold bites, enticing entrees, hand-crafted cocktails, and more before or after showtime. From music to boxing matches, we’ve got you covered.
Pair any upcoming performance with our suggested on-property eateries below, or feel free to mix and match. There’s always something exciting at Rivers.
Jake Paul vs. Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. | June 28, 8 p.m. Rivers Recommends … Wheelhouse Bar & Grill
Generous portions and hi-def TV screens throughout make Wheelhouse the clear winning pick for the fight night pre-game.
Celebrate boxing’s big weekend with Wheelhouse’s crispy signature Colossal Fish Sandwich or take the true Pittsburgher route with a classic Pittsburgh Cobb Salad. Some of the sports bar’s lighter bites include Loaded Wheelhouse Fries, Buffalo Chicken Dip, and Boneless Wings — all daily staples.
Best of all, there’s no better way to get ready for the highly anticipated match than by treating your group to a winning round of cocktails.
+LIVE+ | July 25, 7 p.m. Rivers Recommends … FLIPT
When the “Lightning Crashes” rockstar hits the North Shore for his Event Center show in July, you’re going to need all the fuel you can get to keep that electric energy flowing all night long.
Rivers’ resident gourmet burger and shake shop FLIPT is the perfect place to ‘get some fries with that.’ Open until 2 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, you’ll want to remember FLIPT for all your burgers, hot dogs, sandwiches, and hoagies.
Frozen Oreo Swirls, Fried Chicken Sandwiches, and the namesake FLIPT Burger are all available until after midnight. Let FLIPT be your opening act on July 25, or any night, for legendary comfort foods galore.
Almost Queen | Sept. 19, 7 p.m. Rivers Recommends … Martorano’s Prime
A tribute band as timeless as Almost Queen deserves to be accompanied by cuisine as classic as the culinary stylings of Martorano’s Prime, Rivers’ Italian-American fine-dining experience. The Martorano’s menu will rock your taste buds!
A recipient of OpenTable’s Diners’ Choice Award, Martorano’s Prime specializes in gourmet dishes blending Italian and American influences and offers a variety of items perfect for both pre- and post-Almost Queen concert cravings.
The Eggplant Stack, a heavenly layered creation of pan-fried eggplant, cheese, and tomato, and the Sinatra-Style Ribeye Steak are among guest-favorite meals from Martorano’s. Also worth mentioning, you can’t go wrong with the restaurant’s seafood menu; Lobster Francaise or Linguine and Clams (Steve Martorano’s personal favorite) make the tastiest interlude for this ‘70s iconic rock band.
Encore-Worthy Eats, Only at Rivers Casino
From knockout punches to knockout performances, Rivers Casino’s summer event lineup pairs perfectly with every plate and pour from the fabulous restaurants throughout our gaming and entertainment facility.
Grab your friends, raise your glass, and join us sometime soon, before or after a show, for a very Rivers Casino Summer. For more information on our dining and entertainment offerings, please visit RiversCasino.com/Pittsburgh.
Story and Photo courtesy of Rivers Casino Pittsburgh
From food trucks to fine dining experiences, vegans and veg-enthusiasts have no shortage of delightful places to enjoy plant-powered meals that are good for your health, the environment and our animal friends here in Pittsburgh. Whether you’re trying out #MeatlessMonday on a whim or looking to expand your culinary horizons, here are ten local spots that will entice you to try the art of vegging out. Lettuce celebrate!
Mexico City-style street food that is affordable and bursting with flavor has become a fan favorite wherever El Colibri pops up. Look for them at farmers markets, like Bloomfield’s on Saturdays during the season, and follow them on social media to stay on top of where they are heading each week with their delicious, plant-forward cuisine. You must try the $5 vegan Mexican street corn elote which is corn on the cob slathered in vegan mayo and sprinkled with vegan cheese, tajin, and lime. Order the oyster mushroom birria: braised in a bold, aromatic chili sauce along with their refreshing aguas frescas or the decadent dairy-free almond horchata to wash it all down. I always go back for seconds (and thirds!).
Their Instagram bio says it all: Gay vegan takeout spot, disguised as a greasy Pittsburgh wiener joint. Head downtown for some of the best donuts, banana pudding and breakfast sandwiches you’ll ever have. Vegan or not, this place knows how to cook up what the people want. Whether you’re there for breakfast, brunch, or lunch, you’ll find something tasty and satisfying. Don’t sleep on the crispy chick’n caesar wrap with seitan bac’n or the housemade biscuits, either.
A true hidden gem, this is my go-to place whenever I want to dine al fresco in the sunshine and eat my weight in pasta. All the pastas are vegan and made in house. Try the tastes-like-grandma-made-it red sauce with sauteed mushrooms or have a cheeseless pizza loaded with veggies. The appetizers are endless for veg-friendly folks, like the greens and beans, baked olives with herbs, seasonal soups, and French fries with roasted garlic. Between the delectable salads and elevated wine list, you’ll feel as though you were dropped off in southern Italy … if only for the night.
If you enjoy Thai food (and who doesn’t) then run – don’t walk – to Senyai’s on Ellsworth Avenue. Vegan options are plentiful, including my favorite kale salad (add some mango – you’re welcome). Their silky and savory tom kha soup is a thing of legend. You also won’t want to miss their pumpkin curry or the delicate lemongrass tea. It’s bright blue and turns purple when lemonade is added to it. It’s just a little bit of magic that I’ve come to expect from this special space. Plus, a charming outdoor patio awaits you in warm weather.
Vegan cheese platter? Say yes. This sexy date-night spot brings a Mediterranean flair complete with veggie-options galore. Try The Rainbow to start, a delightful mix of seven mezze salads including hummus, baba ganoush, grape leaves, cauliflower, house-made pickled veggies, Israeli salad, as well as a rotating salad to excite your taste buds. The cocktails are beautifully crafted, and the menu is clearly labeled with many vegan and vegetarian options. The dairy-free pizza? Be still, my heart. A must-try in Lawrenceville.
Miso ramen complete with beer battered firm tofu, nori, bean sprouts, kikurage mushrooms, and scallions is just the beginning of this culinary adventure, and home to one of my favorite spots in the city. You must try the fluffy tofu bao buns, savory ‘shroom empanadas, and the waffle fries with nori powder. Want to get a little bit of everything? Opt for the mouth-watering Bonchon: rayu cucumbers, toasted sesame coleslaw, marinated bean sprouts, and kikurage mushroom salad. Sit on the sidewalk and people watch as you nosh. This is Asian soul food at its finest.
If you haven’t had Spak in a minute, consider this your invitation to head over to Garfield the next time you are craving a calzone. Do you know how impossible it is to find a vegan calzone anywhere? Spak has upped its vegan game with this one. I tried it with mushrooms and vegan pepperoni. Not only did it give me that nostalgic Friday-night-growing-up-pizza-party vibe, but it wasn’t heavy or greasy, as the vegan ricotta is tofu-based. Their vegan hoagies are also not to be missed, including the Cajun blackened tempeh with house seasoning, pickled red onions, lettuce and tomato, topped with a spicy vegan remoulade. Don’t miss out on the spicy buffalo seitan wings, either. Now it’s a party!
When you can’t get to Hawaii, why not bring Hawaii to you? This tiki lounge is one of my favorite places to hang in Squirrel Hill. It has a lovely back patio complete with ceiling fans to keep it breezy on a warm summer night. Beyond their extensive tropical cocktail and mocktail list, try the vegan “crab” Rangoon made from hearts of palm to awaken your taste buds. I also love the crispy Brussels sprouts to start, followed by the fried tofu sandwich with slaw, BBQ sauce, pickles, and a side of fries. Who’s hungry?
When I became vegan almost 15 years ago, there were certain things I missed, like bagel sandwiches with lox. Well, goddess bless the wonderful people of Pigeon Bagel who must have heard my prayer and decided to answer it. Pigeon Bagels is a kosher bagel shop nestled in Squirrel Hill complete with an entirely vegan-friendly selection of bagels – including their delicious carrot lox sandwich complete with vegan tofu schmear and capers. They also have a delectable assortment of pastries, many of which are vegan, and their coffee selection can be made with oat milk to complete your experience. I stan for Pigeon Bagels.
North Side, Homestead, Regent Square, Oakland, Robinson
Whether you want a grab-and-go juice, a smoothie, or a house-made smoothie bowl, the options are seemingly endless at Live Fresh Juicery. They have multiple locations around the city, but I particularly love the Homestead spot on 8th Ave. where you can enjoy sidewalk seating or relax in their spacious sit-down dining room. One of my personal favorites is the Blue Wave bowl with spirulina, granola, blueberries, bananas and more. It’s filling, decadent, and healthy. And if you are feeling a little run down, try one of their immune-boosting shots like “Potion No. 2” with turmeric, black pepper, orange, lemon and ginger. They also have toasts with avocado or nut butters if the mood strikes.
A selection of delicious sweets from La Gourmandine.
Pittsburgh — and Western PA, in general — is home to no shortage of desserts and sweet treats. Here, we’ve highlighted a few of our favorites. The best part? Unlike the influencer-laden bakeries and restaurants of bigger cities, most of these spots are easily accessible, with few lines in sight. Their owners are proud and often working behind the counters … and, if you’re nice, you might even get a sample.
Late-night anything is tough to find in Pittsburgh, much less late-night desserts. But the Butterwood Bake Consortium has you covered! This cozy dessert café in Lawrenceville serves show-stopping layer cakes, delicate pastries, and warm ambiance until 11 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday. Pair your Olive Oil Love Cake with a piping-hot cup of coffee made from locally roasted KLVN beans or a selection from their tea menu.
You’ve seen the Sarris stand at the airport, but have you ever been to the Canonsburg location? A Western PA classic, Sarris is renowned for its playful candy molds, 1,500-pound chocolate castle, and old-fashioned ice cream parlor complete with a player piano. Satisfy your sweet tooth with a sundae drizzled in Sarris’s own hard cap or pick up some chocolate-covered pretzels to take home.
Since 1938, this family-owned shop has been making dozens of different flavors of donut, from basic staples like glazed and chocolate to seasonal specials like Key Lime Pie, Peach, and Orange Creamsicle. Feel free to try them all, but it’s the Cinnamon Roll that’s worth an early-morning drive to Beaver Falls. Oram’s might make the best Cinnamon Roll in the world.
Tucked into a corner in Pittsburgh’s South Side Slopes, 350° Bakery is a small-batch bakery that prides itself on fresh, from-scratch treats. Their rotating menu includes sweet rolls, pies, and indulgent breakfast pastries. Their popular hand pies and biscuit sandwiches make a terrific breakfast, but for the sweet tooth, go for the Strawberry or Cookies and Cream Puff Tart.
Open seasonally since 1951, Page’s is an institution for ice cream lovers. Enjoy classic cones, sundaes, and shakes, or splurge on their signature “Avalanches” — soft serve churned with candy bits, fresh fruit, or cookie dough. Make it a perfect family outing or date night by taking your selections up to nearby Mt. Washington and eating with a view!
Perhaps better known for its inventive cocktails and locally sourced savory fare, Butterjoint also shines with a small but superb dessert menu. Seasonal fruit pies, custards, and other sweet specials — often using ingredients from Pennsylvania farms — make this spot an unexpected hidden gem. Adventurous eaters should try the Vinegar Pie!
A little taste of Mexico in Pittsburgh! This neighborhood bakery in Beechview focuses on traditional Mexican breads and pastries, including conchas (sweet breads), churros, and tres leches cake. It’s perfect when you’re looking for a sweet pick-me-up with unique flavors!
If you’re looking for a taste of Paris in Pittsburgh, look no further than La Gourmandine. Their croissants, macarons, and fruit tarts are meticulously crafted by French-trained bakers, and the rich, buttery pain au chocolat might just be the best in the Steel City!
A hidden gem located behind the equally hidden Biddle’s Escape Coffee Shop near Regent Square, Madeleine Bakery and Bistro specializes in European-style breads and pastries. We love their sandwiches, but when it comes time for dessert, the shop makes incredible madeleines, bouchons, scones, and cookies — including a show-stopping gluten-free double chocolate.
Ever had a Bulgarian dessert? This shop is a labor of love from Zhelyazko (Jak) Latinov, who ran a bakery in his native Bulgaria for twenty years, and Molly Freedman Latinova. It might be the only place in Pittsburgh to find poach, kifla, banitsa, and tutmanik. Want to learn how to make the treats yourselves? The bakery offers classes!
Story by Kenny Gould Styling by Keith Recker Photography by Laura Petrilla
The potato salad is a staple of summer barbecues, picnics, lunches, and dinners. No matter where you end up this summer, we’re sure you’ll see containers of this succulent dish everywhere. Even though the base of a potato salad is normally potatoes, eggs, mayo, and mustard, there are so many other variations to keep your table full during the summertime. There are roasted potato salads, pickle potato salads, and even potato salads that don’t use mayo at all. You could even make all the recipes below and throw your own potato salad party! We could not think of any way better to spend the season.
Sometimes it’s just an extra ingredient or two that takes your potato salad over the top. The addition of green garlic, young garlic before the bulbs mature, and sumac plus a touch of pickle brine means a flavorful feast for your senses. It’s a way of upgrading your recipe without straying too far from the traditional.
This is The Best Potato Salad Ever for a reason. Its perfect creaminess with an aioli type dressing, tender Yukon gold potatoes, and chunks of egg check all the boxes of what a potato salad should be. We recommend using local produce for this to really be The Best Potato Salad Ever.
Usually you boil your potatoes and mash them with mayo for a potato salad but what if you baked their skins and filled them with a leafy salad instead? While this recipe is unconventional, the crisp potato shell with parmesan cheese and an avocado vinaigrette is pure summertime. It may just change your opinion on potato salad entirely.
If you’re a pickle lover, there’s no way you’ll want to pass up this tangy, briney Dill Pickle Potato Salad. This recipe has you roast then smash your potatoes for a bite that comes alive with the dill pickle dressing. Plus the chunks of pickles complete a satisfying texture in this recipe.
Never tried a potato salad with a vinegar-based dressing instead of the usual mayonnaise? This version makes a great low sugar and low fat potato salad that’s lighter for the summertime. It also mixes delicately roasted potatoes with radishes, celery, red onion, and arugula.
Watermelons. Usually they’re eaten in large slices shaped like a smile or cubed in a fruit salad. But, this is not all this summer melon is good for. In fact, watermelon finds its place in various recipes from sandwiches to salads, beverages, or beyond. Follow along to find new ways to invent your favorite fruit into a hearty summer meal. Plus, we even point out the cutest watermelon decorations to take your outdoor feast up a notch.
This recipe is as simple as chunking your watermelon and having fresh produce handy. Chef Jackie Page teaches us a bit about the Juneteenth holiday with this creation. It’s a salad full of mixed greens, cucumber, red onion, mint, lemon juice, feta cheese, olive oil, and ripe red watermelon.
Refresh your summer lunch with Watermelon Sandwiches. These little stacks combine slices of watermelon, a spread of goat cheese, savory garlic, and fresh mint all on a ciabatta roll. Try serving them along with glasses of Rosé or even a homemade lemonade.
Don’t let the alcohol dehydrate you this summer, try a cooling mocktail instead. This Watermelon-Cucumber NO-jito is just like a mojito in every way except it uses Seedlip Garden 108 non-alcoholic spirit so you don’t get that groggy feeling. You can even leave out the spirit entirely for the kiddos when they’re hanging by the pool.
In case you want to add an earthy kick to the mocktail above or just shake up your lemonade, our Watermelon Basil Lime Syrup is an easy solution. It even stores for up to a year so that you can make it through the whole season without making another batch (unless you love it so much you use it all before the end).
If your plans are for a boozy summer vacation, let our Watermelon Spritz whisk you away. Layers of watermelon honey meet sparkling rosé, Singani63 fruit liqueur, and a touch of lemon juice. Plus, if you’re not a rosé fan, you can always substitute in sparkling water or soda.
While the Lime Posset in this recipe combo is a scrumptious, tangy dessert, we’re partial to the Watermelon Granita. A granita is like a shaved ice that uses sugar, water, and flavorings. Garnish it with chocolate “watermelon seeds” for the most adorable finishing touch.
Just in case you feel like going all-out for watermelon this year, these decorations make the perfect setting for your melon-y meal. Fill your table with plates, bowls, fruit bowls, pitchers, dinnerware, and so much more.
We’re collecting some of our favorite martini recipes from over the years to ensure you never run out of cocktail ideas. Don’t worry, you don’t have to pick in the battle between dry and wet martinis! Instead, you can explore martini varieties that use a lot of vermouth, a little vermouth, or even none at all. Plus, we infuse various flavors like rose, toasted marshmallow, and even pickled radish to make sure your cocktail is unlike anything you’ve had before. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your gin (or vodka, or the spirit of choice), as well as your bitters and your vermouth, and let’s get to work!
We had to start off with a classic. The Dirty Martini is characterized by the addition of olive brine and an olive garnish. While we only use a ⅕ oz of olive brine, you can customize this recipe to make it as dirty as you’d like. Sometimes…the dirtier the better.
For those unsure about vermouth or gin in general, this Lemon Basil Martini is for you. The simple combination of Lemoncello, basil, and lemon juice makes for a sweet and herbal take on the martini. Plus, a few drops of olive oil at the end ensures a velvety smooth finish.
Who doesn’t love an Espresso Martini for an evening pick-me-up? Well, we’re upgrading this traditional cocktail to a new level with an infusion of toasted marshmallow simple syrup. Not to mention, the use of tequila instead of vodka adds an extra kick you might not expect.
Florals of roses and the bite of black pepper balance each other out in this unique vodka martini. For the rose aspect we use Kingfly’s Parfait Amour Liqueur with notes of rose petals, citrus peel, Hüll Melon hops, and vanilla bean. Then, a grind of black pepper brings everything together.
While radish may not be the first thing to pop into your mind when you’re dreaming wistfully of a martini, but, the flavor combination will shock you. With Boyd & Blair’s Cucumber Vodka as the base, a little bit of radish pickling liquid goes a long way to craft this tangy, sweet surprise.
Ditch the latte and try a perfectly green Matcha Martini instead. This simple recipe uses vodka, matcha powder, vanilla syrup, and a touch of milk for a smooth and luxurious cocktail. It’s the martini you know and love but with a chase of delicate earthiness.
The popularity of Espresso Martinis is one we support entirely. The hint of sweetness that plays over bitter coffee and vodka leaves us ordering one after another. We even use a chai-spiced brown sugar syrup to upgrade your average recipe.
While vodka is the popular choice for a martini, gin is another option that opens up the flavor profile of this traditional cocktail. The botanicals in your choice of gin shape the vermouth into a new experience. Plus, a few olives and a lemon twist make this one unforgettable.
If doesn’t have to be fall for you to indulge in the coziness of pumpkin spice. We’re adding this beloved flavor to the martini for a creamy espresso martini and pumpkin spice heaven. Garnish with chocolate shavings for that sweet finishing touch.
It’s true, light liquor is not for everyone. So, for the whiskey fans out there, we have an Espresso Whiskey Martini you’ll shake up each evening. Frangelico also makes a lovely appearance with its hazelnut-forward taste and soothing finish.
We’re big fans of Stanley Tucci. So, after watching his show Food Network,Be My Guest, we knew we had to follow his guidance and make our own Stanley Tucci Martini at home. He shares this recipe in Season 3, Episode 2 so bring that episode up and feel free to shake up a glass or two.
