If you’ve never tried a Buckwheat Blini then you’re in for a real treat when you bite into this freshly-fried appetizer or side dish. Think pancakes but somehow softer and even better with the capacity for sweet and savory toppings alike. For our recipe we crown these small rounds with a dollop of homemade creme fraiche and trout roe or caviar. It’s a little luxurious while still having that cozy home feeling. Try it for breakfast, brunch, or alongside a light dinner.
What is a Buckwheat Blini?
A Buckwheat Blini is a small, thin and lighter pancake that traditionally uses buckwheat flour. This special ingredient gives these delicious bites a distinctive nutty and almost earthy flavor. Originating in Eastern European cuisine, mostly Russian, blini are often yeast-risen. This means the result is a lightly spongy texture. Buckwheat flour, despite its name, is actually gluten-free so even those with dietary restrictions can enjoy this dish. If you’re looking for a savory topping we recommend smoked salmon, caviar, and sour cream. But for a sweet effect you can use jams or honey too.
This Russian pancake-like dish is even softer than regular pancakes with a delicious creme fraiche on top.
Ingredients
Scale
2 tsp yeast
1 tsp sugar
2 cups warm milk
1 3/4 cups flour
1/4 cup buckwheat flour
1 tsp salt
4 egg yolks
For the creme fraiche:
1 cup heavy cream
1 tbsp buttermilk
Instructions
Activate yeast in warm milk. Whisk together dry ingredients and add into liquid ingredients. Let ferment lightly in a sealed container for at least an hour. Make sure the container you chose is double the amount of batter because it will expand in size. Whisk one more time before making.
To make, use a nonstick pan and pan spray. Spray the pan and warm over medium heat. Dollop one tablespoon of the batter into the pan – as many dollops as you can fit – and cook as though you are cooking a pancake.
When cooked on one side, flip and allow the other side to cook. Continue until you have used all of the batter.
Serve immediately with trout roe or caviar & creme fraiche.
For the creme fraiche:
In a clean, plastic container, mix heavy cream and buttermilk. Cover with a tight-fitting lid and set aside for at least 24 hours until set. Refrigerate immediately. Use within 7-10 days.
Recipes by Csilla Thackray Styling by Keith Recker Photography by Laura Petrilla
If you’re sick of the same old recipe for deviled eggs, try adding a kick of paprika for big flavor in a small package. These hard boiled eggs hold a creamy filling of dijon, lemon, egg yolks, and seasonings in their respective white halves. The final touch is a dusting of paprika that not only adds a pop of color but also introduces a subtle, smoky pepper flavor. It’s a distinct taste that complements the richness of your usual deviled egg filling.
How Do You Get the Smoothest Deviled Egg Filling
Nobody likes lumpy Paprika Deviled Eggs. When cooking your hard-boiled eggs, you want to stop just until the yolks are firm and bright yellow which means that less is more here. To mash the yolks, you can use a fork to thoroughly break up any lumps before you add any other ingredients. If you really want an ultra-smooth texture, you can press the yolks through a fine-mesh sieve to get rid of any extra graininess. As you go to put in the dijon and other liquids, add them gradually and mix vigorously for the best results. Some cooks will also use a food processor or immersion blender to get the filling as perfect as possible.
2 cloves of garlic finely minced or grated on a microplane
½ tsp dijon
Juice of 1 lemon, plus more to taste
½ tbs salt, plus more to taste
1 ¾ cup canola oil
1 tsp hot paprika
6 hard-boiled eggs – see directions below
Instructions
Place 6 whole eggs in a single layer and cover with cold water.
Add 1/2 cup kosher salt.
This seems like a lot of salt but trust me…it will not season the eggs. It simply helps to solidify your egg whites if one breaks in the water.
Bring the entire pot up to a boil. Once boiling, turn the heat down to medium-high and boil between 10 and 12 minutes. If the eggs are smaller, go closer to 10, if the eggs are larger, go closer to 12.
Shock the eggs in an ice bath and peel. Allow eggs to cool completely in refrigeration.
In a medium mixing bowl with a flat base, vigorously whisk together egg yolks, garlic, lemon juice, and salt.
Once the mixture has become frothy, begin to very slowly drizzle in the canola oil while whisking.
As you add the oil in a slow, steady stream, the mixture will thicken. If it becomes too thick to whisk, splash a little cold water to smooth it out.
Once all of your oil has been added, finish the aioli with paprika and taste for salt.
Cut the boiled eggs in half and remove the yolks. In a food processor, combine equal parts aioli and egg yolk puree until smooth. Taste for salt.
Fill the eggs with the mixture using a piping bag, making sure to over fill them slightly. Garnish with a little more paprika.
Recipes by Csilla Thackray Styling by Keith Recker Photography by Laura Petrilla
Csilla Thackray shares a Fresh Pea Puree snack, perfect for happy hour in the springtime. You can use this creamy smooth recipe for on your favorite crackers or crostini. Though, feel free to serve a whole bowlful with an herb garnish on top if you so desire.
Snow Peas vs English Peas in a Fresh Pea Puree
When you make a Fresh Pea Puree, the choice between snow peas and English peas makes a huge in the final flavor and texture. We recommend English peas for this recipe for its overall versatility. You get the classic sweet taste that shines through. Plus their texture, after cooking and pureeing, is typically more smooth and creamy. Snow peas though have a milder, more subtle sweetness and more vegetal flavor. Since you also puree the entire pod with snow peas (after removing the tough strings), the puree carries a fibrous texture in comparison to a puree solely from the English peas. While you can make a puree from snow peas there are setbacks. It will likely have a less intensely pea-like taste and needs to be strained very well to work.
Cocktail hour can get a little too buzzy without a plate to share with a friend. This Gemelli with Prosciutto and Peas is so easy, you could disappear into the kitchen and come back with forks before your bestie finishes her story. We especially love Chef Kate Romane’s pop of green spring peas, a vibrant addition to the dish.
About Gemelli
Gemelli is a traditional Italian pasta with a unique shape and texture. The word “gemelli” translates to “twins” in Italian, which perfectly describes the pasta’s signature form. The twisted, spiral-y shape helps the pasta hold onto sauces more effectively, making it an ideal choice for a variety of dishes. Gemelli is versatile and works wonderfully in both light, fresh salads and rich, hearty pasta dishes. In recipes like this Gemelli with Prosciutto and Peas, the pasta’s shape is perfect for trapping bits of crispy prosciutto and sweet, tender peas. The beauty of gemelli lies not only in its shape but in how it elevates the simplest ingredients to create a delicious and comforting dish. Whether you’re making a quick weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, gemelli is a pasta that promises to shine in any recipe.
As spring blooms and Easter approaches, families across the city eagerly anticipate the fun-filled tradition of hunting for colorful eggs hidden in parks, gardens, and community spaces. Thankfully, Pittsburgh offers a delightful and large array of Easter Egg Hunts that promise excitement and laughter for the entire family. Many of these hunts even include prizes for those children who find the very special eggs placed throughout the hunt. Some have other activities to extend the hunt into a day-long adventure. So grab your baskets, make sure your sneakers are laced up nice and tight, and get your eagle-eye ready to find the most eggs.
Not many Easter egg hunts are for older kids but this one was made for them. Ages 9 to 14 are invited to bring along a bag and flashlight to look for eggs featuring candy and other surprises in the nighttime. The best part is every kid gets an equal chance with the opportunity to pick up 10 eggs and no more.
All community members can get out as a family to find candy-filled eggs, make crafts, play games, and even visit with the Easter Bunny. For ages up to 10, the hunt will take place outdoors with the weather permitting.
Grab your cutest bag or basket and fill it with treats and prizes out in Koenig Field. Kids will be sorted into three age groups prior to the hunt with a fair opportunity for all. This also means for the younger toddler ages, the eggs will be empty but all kids will get soft prizes afterwards. After the hunt, the Easter Bunny will make a grand appearance. Plus, parents can purchase coffee to help the Edgewood Volunteer Fire Department.
Children 12 and under can hunt for eggs and then turn in their empty eggs for a chance to win big prizes. They’ll also have a chance to meet the Easter Bunny after all the fun. Anyone needing a sensory-friendly experience can sign up ahead of time for the earlier slot. Just be sure to bring your own basket.
Make sure the whole family has fun this Easter with something for everyone. Participate in the egg hunt then spin a prize wheel, dance along to music, and take silly pictures in the photo booth. Of course the Easter Bunny will be nearby to assist kids in the fun along the way for all those ages 10 and under.
Let your little ones explore the magic of an Easter egg hunt in a greenhouse. Wander through beautiful blooms to find colorful Easter eggs full of candy. Besides the hunt, every child will get a goodie bag to take home, make an Easter-themed craft, and get their photo with the Easter Bunny.
Head out to Simmons Farm for a day full of Easter activities. Your child will get to make a farm related craft, collect Easter eggs for special prizes, decorate and plant a flower pot, color a craft, check out the corn bus, play games, participate in ducky races, and visit the various farm animals.
Search through the various animal habitats throughout the National Aviary for an egg-themed scavenger hunt. But that’s just the beginning. Throughout the day, kids can explore egg biofacts, make a craft, play a variety of educational games, and learn from aviary experts at special lectures before getting their photo with the Easter Bunny.
Fun Slides Carpet Skatepark and Party Center, April 3-4
What could be more fun than hunting for glowing Easter eggs under the blacklight? After your kiddo counts up their eggs, they’ll get to explore the carpet skatepark with a 2-hour sliding session that even features the Easter Bunny right alongside them. Plus some eggs feature arcade tickets so be sure to get your gamer skills ready to win more.
There’s a special guest appearance waiting for kiddos at the Waverly Presbyterian Church. Weather permitting this Easter egg hunt will be outside on the front lawn but the sanctuary is also available for space if it does happen to rain. This will be the last chance before Easter Sunday for the little ones to hunt for eggs.
Story by Kylie Thomas Photo courtesy of Gabe Pierce
Gifting for Mother’s Day can be difficult when you don’t know exactly what mom will enjoy. Sometimes, it’s best to go with the safest bet and get her something you know will warm her heart and put a smile on her face, flowers. A bundle of her favorite blooms or a new houseplant to add to her collection is just the thing to honor such a fantastic woman. The following talented Pittsburgh florists are ready to create stunning arrangements that capture the essence of the special woman in your life.
Founded by Mary Catherine Cronk in 2019, this floral business is a tribute to the maternal flower-lovers in her life. She embraces a certain amount of wildness in her design through her flower choices as well as her breezy (sometimes even windy) hand in arranging them. The work is emotional and sensuous and gorgeous. Mary Catherine is ready for single orders as well as events and stagings.
Those in Clairton, Homestead, Pittsburgh, South Park, and West Mifflin can rely on Klein’s Flower Shop’s delivery for flowers. The shop carries single variety flower bundles or multi-variety arrangements depending on what aesthetic you’re looking for. Plus, they currently have a selection of spring designs to help bring a pop of color to mom.
The Spring Flowers collection at Squirrel Hill Flower Shop embody all the vibrant colors of the season though you can find classic roses as well. Check out bouquets in eye-catching pink, beautiful blue, sunny yellow, peaceful lilac, and powerful reds. They even carry botanical bouquets for those who prefer the greenery featuring hints of white hydrangea, white asiatic lilies, and bells of Ireland.
No matter your occasion, Mt Lebanon Floral swears to meet the mark. Their arrangements depict rainbows of color in unique, matching vessels. Whenever you buy from this shop, you’re sure to get a design you’re happy leaving out for as long as it lasts. They even have succulents and greenery in case florals aren’t your jam.
Not sure what type of flowers to get mom? That’s what Flowers by Terry’s Easter designer’s choice Mother’s Day Florals are for. Choose from standard, deluxe, and premium sizes to suit how large (or small) your mother’s dining table is. These bundles promise colorful, pastel blooms expertly designed by a professional florist. You can even have their experts make up a custom arrangement for you if you know what kind of buds mom likes the most.
Plants, bouquets, and other arrangements await at Oliver Flower Shop. Choose to bring in a little bit of sunshine with a bundle of sunflowers or you could shop houseplants for a gift that’ll last a little bit longer. You can even order same-day delivery in case you happen to procrastinate a bit too close to Mother’s Day.
You’ll want to keep flowers in the house as much as possible after seeing the designs at Farmer’s Daughter. Keep mom’s house freshly decorated year-round with The Farmer’s Daughter Flowers’ Floral Subscriptions. Choose either a house bouquet or special arrangement weekly, biweekly, monthly, or quarterly. You can always stop in or shop online for a one time purchase, too.
The Pot et Fleur at Fox and the Fleur is a mix of all your favorite seasonal blooms in a gorgeous planter. It includes potted plants and cut flowers that you can even replace once they’ve had their time. Mom will be so busy awe-ing over the tones of pink, purple, yellow, and white that she may just forget about her other gifts too.
Over 100 years of services through four generations, Gidas Flowers knows how to spot the freshest cuts and plants. Whether you’re looking for a rustic basket full of blooming plants or a statement centerpiece for mom’s table, stop in and make your dreams come to life. Plus, if you’re not sure what you would like, you can put trust in your curators hands with the Designer’s Choice Everyday Bouquet that’s perfect for any occasion.
Looking for an arrangement that doesn’t break the bank? Armful of Flowers makes stunning creations in mason jars that are affordable, simple to take care of, and easy to squeeze into small spaces. Their current Spring Mason Jar combines scents and textures of the seasons all wrapping in a signature, brown kraft paper for a rustic touch.
Black Radish's Kate Romane loves the first green growth of the new season.
Spring is a funny thing in Western Pennsylvania. Most years, winter turns to summer in a ten-minute changeover from slush to 85-degree weather. That rush of heat and light awakens Mother Nature and the first delicious foods of a new growing season appear – like wild ramps, spring lettuces, and other tender shoots and sprouts.
The combination of these recipes together can create a hearty meal for the whole family. This return of fresh flavors is one of my favorite times of year, and I wanted to share a few of my best-loved easy-to-make recipes with TABLE readers. Plus, try the recipe for the Ramp Butter Garlic Knots pictured below, here.
Recipes Using Seasonal Ramps and Greens
Angelo’s Veggie-friendly Caesar Salad
This veggie-friendly take on the classic skips the anchovies without sacrificing the creamy, tangy goodness you love. With crisp romaine, a bold garlic dressing, and plenty of Parmesan, it’s a fresh, satisfying salad that’s perfect as a starter or a light main.
Blend mustard, garlic, and lime juice in a food processor.
Add salt and pepper.
Slowly add blended olive oil first, then Parmesan cheese and olive oil. This makes a big batch that will keep in the fridge for a few weeks.
Toss fresh gem lettuces and radicchio with a couple of tablespoons of dressing and top with breadcrumbs.
Beans and Greens
This beans and greens bowl is made to be your new comfort dish for those cozy nights in. Made with tender cannellini beans, seasonal leafy greens, and a savory broth infused with garlic and spices, it’s a nourishing dish that’s the perfect go-to. Weekday meal prepping loves this recipe. This classic Italian-inspired bowl is both satisfying and endlessly adaptable.
The James Beard Awards have released their 2025 finalists—and two Pittsburgh restaurants made the list. Fet-Fisk is up for Best New Restaurant, and Chad Houser of Café Momentum received the prestigious Humanitarian of the Year Award for his service in helping young people in the juvenile justice system find jobs in the culinary industry. The final ceremony will take place in June, so we’ll have to wait a few months for the actual winners, but this is an exciting step forward for Pittsburgh’s food scene, as most of its presence on the James Beard stage hovers around the semifinalist.
Chad Houser of Café Momentum: Humanitarian of the Year Achievement Award
Of the award, Café Momentum wrote on Instagram that “This award belongs to every intern who has walked through our restaurant doors, every team member who pours into our youth, every partner who has stood beside us and every supporter who believes in what’s possible. From Dallas to Atlanta, Pittsburgh, Denver and beyond, this community is proof of what happens when young people are given the opportunity to reach their full potential.”
Café Momentum has locations around the country, but its Pittsburgh location opened in 2023 under Houser’s direction. Pittsburgh natives Cheyenne Tyler and Lamar Davis run the kitchen on Forbes Avenue downtown, where people of all stripes can enjoy delicious food and help support positive career growth for youth in the juvenile justice system.
Fet-Fisk: Finalist for Best New Restaurant
The Best New Restaurant list narrows to only 9 restaurants as we inch towards the final ceremony, so making the cut is a big deal. Fet-Fisk is certainly a buzzy restaurant already, with accolades from Eater and the New York Times. The restaurant is full every night of the week, and consistently changes up its menu to feature seasonal produce and create innovative takes on every dish they feature. Forsberg called the restaurant “approachable fine dining,” and it lives up to that description.
Their social media announcement of the award comes right after a tongue-in-cheek April Fools’ post in which they pretended they were doing brunch service as something of an in-joke about how much brunch is universally hated by service industry workers. But people love the restaurant so much that many took it completely seriously—a testament to what a big following they have. Fet-Fisk’s James Beard Award finalist nomination, however, is no April Fool’s joke. Chef Nik Forsberg and his staff have been semifinalists before, but this marks their first time on the finalist list. Will they receive the final accolade for Best New Restaurant? We’ll have to wait until Chicago in June to see.
April showers bring May flowers, and warm weather brings spring menu updates. It’s out with the soups and hot toddies and in with the salads and Aperol spritzes. Edible flowers, tomatoes, asparagus, peas…there’s no end to the list of things that pop up once the warmer temperatures hit. Plus, farmer’s markets pop back up, with the promise of fresher, more flavorful vegetables. Plan a spring night out with these restaurants, or fall in love with brunch again now that the magnolias are blooming and the crocuses are peeking out.
In addition to their legendary Aperol Spritz, with a recipe straight from the Italian coast, sip on Vallozzi’s famed Hugo – a refreshing elderflower-flavored cocktail topped with prosecco. Look for some delightful effervescent offerings that include Vallozzo’s house ‘cellos this Spring as well, as they gear up for another Festa di Limoncello in early summer. Fresh herbs and pestos appear throughout the classic menu with dishes like the Spaghetti Genovese with fresh basil pesto, toasted pine nut, and shaved Parmesan and the Burrata with arugula pesto, roasted red peppers, and 24-month-aged prosciutto.
As Fet-Fisk enters into its second year of service, it continues to evolve. Springtime brings two new dishes: Seafood Ribolita, a warm stew with salt cod, squid, and mussels simmered in lobster stock with white cannellini beans, and grumolo raddichio. The dish gets added flavors from a Fines Herbes Salsa Verde. For bacon lovers, there’s the Picnic Ham and Bacon Rillette, which gathers pork confit and bacon with olive oil and vinegar caraway, shallot, thyme, and pickled purple winter radishes. Plus, grilled focaccia and dijon.
For the warmer temperatures, Apteka has the Zupa z Rozy, a rosehip soup with Marfax beans, potatoes, and onions. The Kluski Leniwe is a new take on the pierogi with potato and funky sunflower seed filling, perfect for the sunnier temperatures (or at least for wishing for the sun to come out during April showers). A new cocktail is also making a splash this spring: the Oeurtreuse with gin, fennel, hyssop, pear, and marigold.
Executive Chef Dave Racciot’s menu is always evolving with the seasons. The Spicy Crab with chili crunch, gruyere, and cheese bread is a fresh and tasty shareable, and main courses like the Chicken with arugula pesto, roasted carrots, and preserved lemon taste just as bright as they look for the impending season.
Savory cocktails are hitting for Spring, and The Commoner is always first to the party when it comes to tasty and inventive cocktails. Inspired by the deviled egg, guests can sip on a Satanic Panic made with gin, mustard seed, spicy pickle brine syrup, lemon, celery bitters, dill. It’s garnished with egg white, chive oil and smoked paprika.
Pittsburgh’s whimsical gem in the iconic Union Trust building is serving Spring preparations that are as beautiful as they are delicious. Guests will enjoy the fresh flavors in shared starters like Bruléed Oranges with goat cheese and local micro greens; Shrimp and Crab Cocktail with lemon vinaigrette and cocktail sauce; and the Tuna Poke with sashimi grade tuna, togarashi spice, poke sauce, avocado, and prawn chips.
When toasting the warmer weather, guests can cool down with eclectic cocktails like the Spa Day with cucumber vodka, coconut water, cucumber saccharum, Luxardo maraschino, lime, and cucumber slices. Don’t we all need a spa day?
The colorful and welcoming cafe in East Liberty is making sure Pittsburghers and East Enders eat their fruits and veggies this Spring. Known for playful and tasty preparations, their smoothie bar and barista have been busy brewing up creative drinks, while the kitchen is whipping up spring favorites like Power Smoothies and Amber Carrot Juice. Fan favorite Lemon Ricotta Pancakes will also be coming back.
For meat lovers, Altius has a Barolo Braised Lamb Shank debuting on the menu just in time for Easter. Their Heritage Breed Tomahawk Pork Chop is another mouthwatering dish, with orange fennel mostarda, Marcona almonds, Brussels sprouts, bacon, Calabrian chili jam, truffled Gouda purple potato puree, Maître d’Hôtel butter. If you’re skipping the meat, the Vegan Wild Mushroom Papillote with stone polenta and herb chimichurri is a must-try.
Bistro 19’s menu is always evolving, and for spring, they added Giambotta, an Italian dish with gnocchi, eggplant, zucchini, tomato, mushroom, grana Parmesan, and grilled bread. You can also always get their classics with spring seasonings, like the Bay of Fundy salmon, as well as new addition of Oishi Shrimp Sundried Tomato and Artichoke Risotto, with sautéed spinach, basil pesto, chili crisp.
Sister-owners Dalel and Leila Khalil are bringing a sense of Spring to their traditional Syrian fare. For spring items, The non-alcoholic Habeebee Tea with honey-soaked oranges, spices, and hibiscus will be a great option for any sober night out. The Miklos Village Salad gets its name from the Khalils’ ancestral village in the Christian Valley mountins of Syria. It features Persian cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, sprinkled with feta cheese and Kalamata olives and drizzled in extra virgin olive oil dressing. Then, cool off with the Wardi al Wadi cocktail with housemade rose syrup, vodka, and grapefruit.
Fish Nor Fowl is coming in hot with the Seafood Conchiglione, Arctic Char Piccata, Rack of Lamb, and the decadent 35-Days Dry-Aged New York Strip Steak. Sommelier and General Manager Alexander Riola took special care to add new warm weather wines to the menu as well, including gorgeous Sicilian whites like Zibibbo and Etna Bianco.
Jamilka Borges and Dianne DeStefano always have something new and delicious cooking up. Their Tuna Tartare is the hit dish of the spring, plus Blue Cheese Sformato and Sunchoke Soup, as well as a new Lobster Roll dish. Plus, don’t forget their staples like the Yuca Pierogi, a spin on the classic Pittsburgh dish that’s good for any season.
Story by Emma Riva Photo courtesy of Fish Nor Fowl
With so much happening in the city of Pittsburgh, it’s tough to choose your must-attend events and must-try restaurants. Plenty of establishments are presenting new spring menus. Outdoor events are kicking into high gear. And the spring theatre season is on its way. We’ve compiled a BINGO card of everything you just have to hit during the month of April, from food and drink to performances, shopping, and fun. Try your best to mark up a cover-all or at least make sure you clear off one line on this BINGO card. You’ll be happy you did and have the memories to last!
What to Do in Pittsburgh: Your April 2025 BINGO Card
That’s right, Pittsburgh’s unofficial favorite ice cream stand is officially open for 2025! After their hiatus for the winter, the stand on the South Side is back in operation, and ready to create sundaes, soft serve, sandwiches, milkshakes, fresh-squeezed lemonade, and other snacks. You won’t want to wait any longer to get your delicious fill.
On Easter Sunday, you can let the Omni William Penn hotel take care of all the cooking for a refined brunch. Sit in the gorgeous and sunlit Terrace Room with those you love as you indulge in carved meats and seasonal dishes. Plus, you have the choice of dining at 10 a.m., noon, or 2 p.m. so there’s still plenty of time for a little holiday rest and relaxation.
We asked our readers, and the vote was practically unanimous: the Community Kitchen Pittsburgh Fish Fry is the place to be before Lent is over. Stop by on Fridays through April 18 to order their crispy fish sandwiches while also enjoying brews from Hazel Grove Brewing. You can also pre-order your meals ahead of time for pickup.
While you can get Oliver’s Donuts year-round, this shop in Lawrenceville has a walk-by window for picking up their fresh-baked donuts. Take your dog for a walk and treat yourself to various types of cake donuts, all of which are made with local grains. You can also order a coffee and have a seat at one of their outdoor tables to soak in that April sun.
The outside seating at Pusadee’s Garden is something truly magical. Their interior garden courtyard includes plenty of greenery, perfect-sized tables, and umbrellas for those extra sunny days. Prepare to let yourself relax as you dine on Thai plates like various curries, pork belly, fresh shrimp, and nutritious salads.
The name just about says it all, a rooftop view of Pittsburgh with delicious brews and cocktails? Sounds like a win-win to us. While this rooftop bar is open all year, with the warmer weather they’ll be opening up their ceiling for fresh air and unforgettable nights in the glow of the city’s lights.
We know the introduction to spring has you all dreaming of days on the beach. It’s never too early to give into the tropical flavors with this Caribbean Cocktail Class from PA Market. On April 10, learn to make and taste classic, island-esque cocktails with an expert mixologist. Then, take these recipes home to make for your friends and family.
This pop-up was one of our favorite places to grab a cocktail in 2024 and now it’s back for the summer of 2025. The Spritzery is officially reopening on April 11 with a brand new menu in their colorful atmosphere. If you didn’t get a chance to try one of their outstanding spritzes last year, now is the perfect opportunity before it gets too busy.
Not only is ginger beer a refreshing beverage in the warmer months, but Jackworth Ginger Beer specifically brews their ginger beer right in house. After grabbing one of their cocktails or a glass of their non-alcholic ginger beer, head to their alleyway outside to sip with a friend and chat your problems away. Needless to say, you’ll be back as temperatures continue to rise. One visit won’t be enough.
Out of all of the spring cocktail menus out there, Space Bar stands out for their creativity and innovation. Their latest cocktail, the Scarlet Horizon, includes a shimmering metallic swirl that quenches our thirst and ignites our imagination. It layers the flavors of the season with Papaya-Infused Casco Viejo Blanco Tequila, cardamom, Peppercorn-Infused Pama Liqueur, raspberry purée, lime, and Harissa chili.
Vintage is in and at the Vintage Pittsburgh Retro Fair you can shop from dozens of local vendors. This is the Heinz History Center’s 11th fair and it’s only grown in size every year. When you’re done shopping, check out the history center’s exhibit on vintage textiles and the quilts of Pittsburgh artist Louise Silk.
With spring and Mother’s Day on the way, Shadyside Nursery reopens for business starting on Earth Day. Shop through their houseplant selection or head outside to pick up greenery to decorate your yard with color and texture and life!
Pittsburgh’s large crafting market comes back for its spring edition at Construction Junction on April 12. For those who love to pick up handmade goods or knicknacks, this market is full of local makers presenting home decor, ceramics, artwork, jewelry, accessories, and so much more. Be sure to catch the live art demonstrations while you’re there too!
The first Saturday in April marks the beginning of Sewickley Farmers’ Market’s twentieth season. Here you’ll find fresh farm produce, the finest cuts of local meats, lots of handmade baked goods, and plenty of other surprises. It’s quite an assortment of deliciousness, with some beautiful handmade artisans in the mix, too.
Both men and women (and everyone in between) can fill up their closet with the best looks for springtime. Moda Pittsburgh carries only the best designers to bring you up-to-date quality clothing. Many of their new arrivals are just in time for spring. You’ll find tank tops, t-shirt dresses, shorts, sneakers, and just about anything else you may desire.
What’s more magical than watching Peter Pan, Wendy, and the Darling brothers fly high above the streets of London? PNC Broadway in Pittsburgh presents this musical trip to Neverland that’ll have adults and children alike in awe. Get your tickets for performances April 1 to April 6 to adventure with these familiar friends.
Andrew Lloyd Webber’s rock opera Jesus Christ Superstar is one that everyone should see at least once in their lifetime. Pittsburgh Musical Theater takes this hit musical to the stage. Learn all about the last days of Jesus Christ with an edgy twist April 3 to April 13.
Another part of the PNC Broadway in Pittsburgh series, Some Like It Hot is a tale of prohibition times featuring two musicians on the run from the mob. This truly dazzling production includes jazzy music, outstanding dancing, and a story that’ll have you rooting for true love. See it from April 15 to April 20.
The Pittsburgh Opera is continuing their incredible season with a production of Woman with Eyes Closed from April 26 to May 4.A story about the true price of art, Mona finds a series of paintings stolen by her son, one of which looks just like her mother. Watch as she makes a choice between saving art or saving her son. There’s also a special surprise at the end as this opera has three possible endings.
The Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre celebrates its 55th Anniversary with a showcase of five contemporary and classical works for their Spring Mix. From April 4 to April 6 audiences will experience three works that the company has performed throughout its history and two new, world premieres.
Through April 20, Phipps Conservatory is bringing the spring season straight to you with their new flower show, A Bloom for Every Room. Let yourself melt into the scents and sights of spring buds like tulips, pansies, and lilies. It’s just what you need after a long, dull, gray winter.
Pittsburgh Tartan Day on April 5 is taking you away to Scotland. Celebrate with live entertainment, food, exhibits, workshops, and a number of specialty vendors. This holiday commemorates the signing of Scotland’s Declaration of Independence so it’s just the day for embracing your Scottish heritage.
Have you ever seen over 10,000 rubber ducks sailing down a river? Well, here’s your opportunity to buy your own duck (or ducks) for a chance to win up to $2,000 on April 26. The Steel City Duck Derby in Allegheny Commons Park raises funds for Partners For Quality family of nonprofit agencies including the Allegheny Children’s Initiative and many others.
Instead of braving the possible (probable?) rain and cold for an outdoor Easter egg hunt, join the Eggstavaganza at the National Aviary on April 12, 13, 18, or 19. Search through the bird’s habitats for an egg scavenger hunt and prizes along the way. Once you’re done with your search, turn in your scavenger hunt and take your photo with the Easter Bunny.
Take in Jewish-themed films from creators around the world at JFilm Festival by Film Pittsburgh. Theaters throughout the city will be showcasing these films from April 24 to May 4 with ticket sales opening on April 3. Some of this year’s features include stories from Italy, Israel, and the United Kingdom.
