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Pittsburgh Art Shows Open This January

January 7, 2025

A photography work by Priya Suresh Kambli showing a figure with two black and white photographs over their eyes.

One New Year’s resolution that’s totally achievable in Pittsburgh is to see more art. As everyone recalibrates from the holidays, the galleries are opening again and the events season is getting back into gear for what promises to be a great winter season of show openings. Art shows are a wonderful way to socialize during the winter months, often with a complimentary glass of wine and a plate of charcuterie. Take a friend or meet some new ones at these Pittsburgh art shows by local, national, and international artists.

Pittsburgh Art Shows Open This January

Tara Fay Coleman – Pageant Queen

Bottom Feeder Books (415 Gettysburg Street)

Tara Fay Coleman’s most recent exhibition and most personal body of work yet draws inspiration from the late Lorraine O’Grady’s Mlle Bourgoise Noire and the tradition of Black beauty pageants. With the artist’s combination of wry confessional vulnerability and humor, Coleman’s Pageant Queen is a must-see, and open to the public during Bottom Feeder Books’ open hours through January 25.

Gertrude Abercrombie – The Whole World is a Mystery

Carnegie Museum of Art (4400 Forbes Avenue)

Some called Gertrude Abercrombie the “queen of the bohemian artists.” This is a lofty title, but a well-deserved one for the prolific Chicago-born painter. Abercrombie was friendly with jazz legends like Charlie Parker and Dizzy Gillepsie, and her work shows that freeform. The Carnegie’s exhibition of her work comes from a quote Abercrombie herself said about the dreamlike nature of her paintings: “The whole world is a mystery.”

Marisa Kriangwiwat Holmes – Tells

April April (409 South Trenton Avenue)

Hong Kong-born, New York-based Marisa Kriangwiwat Holmes’s photography is on display at Pittsburgh newcomer April April’s third exhibition in their Regent Square space. Kriangwiwat Holmes explores the connection between photography and memory in ghostlike images on matboard, including material from her past like personal letters and artifacts.

Karl Mullen – A Clarion Call

ZYNKA Gallery (904 Main Street)

In ZYNKA Gallery’s first exhibition of 2025, Karl Mullen displays his paintings at the intersection of abstraction and figuration. Mullen said that “We are all bombarded nonstop with bad news, insufferable political jockeying, advertisements for things we do not need, and the inhuman acceleration of daily life. And so I paint, mark make, and create images, not only as a refuge but a bulwark against an avalanche of lies and despair.”

Dï – Marred

Wick Monet (5404 Walnut Street)

Mysterious neo-expressionist painter Dï will be putting on a solo exhibition at gallery and project space Wick Monet on Walnut Street. The saturated colors in Dï’s work will bring a pop of brightness to the grey, snowy winter. The show opens on January 25 and will be on display through the spring.

Associated Artists of Pittsburgh – stop, collaborate, listen

Ice House Studios (!00 43rd Street)

stop, collaborate, listen is all artwork created from and inspired by vinyl records, record sleeves, album covers, and more on the theme of
“listening.” It features both artists from the Associated Artist of Pittsburgh organization and Creative Citizen Studios in collaboration with each other. The show opens on January 18 with a reception from 6PM-8PM.

Priya Suresh Kambli and Vivian Poey – Passages

Silver Eye Center for Photography (4808 Penn Avenue)

This dual exhibition examines immigration and migration through images from each photographer’s life. Priya Suresh Kambli’s work came out of a question asked by her three-year-old son. Did she belong to two different worlds, since she spoke two different languages? This question led her to examine her own dual identity with a child’s curiosity. Vivian Poey’s work draws from her complex, multinational path as a a US citizen, born in Mexico of Cuban parents living in Guatemala and Colombia before moving to the U.S. Both use photography to understand themselves and the world around them more deeply. Passages is open through February 8.

Harrison Apple, Théo Bignon, Clint Fisher, Theodoor Grimes, Jules Malice, Amanda Pickler, Nica Ross, Janie Stamm, Mary Tremonte, True T Pittsburgh, Jimmy Wright, and huny young (Curated by Hannah Turpin) – When the Lights Come On

Brew House Association (711 S 21st St)

This group exhibition, subtitled “Queer Nightlife as Emergent Space” looks at the underground world of nightclubs as places for magic, connection, and self-discovery. The show features a lineup of multidisciplinary artists including musicians and performers from Pittsburgh’s own queer nightlife scene. This includes curator Hannah Turpin, whose cocktail popup Shag has emphasized the glamorous aesthetic of the queer underground. When the Lights Come On will be on view at Brew House from January 23 to March 22.

Story by Emma Riva
Photo of work by Priya Suresh Kambli, courtesy of Silver Eye Center for Photography

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Proust Questionnaire with Pastry Chef Selina Progar

Emma Riva

January 7, 2025

Selina Progar is an extraordinary pastry chef whose versatility and imagination comes through in everything she makes. You can find her at Umi, Eleven, or Kaya in Pittsburgh, where her confectionary concoctions are standout menu items. But now, you can get to know the woman behind the sweet treats further with our Proust Questionnaire series.

Proust Questionnaire with Selina Progar

Your favorite qualities in a restaurant or chef?

Adaptability. Food is an ever changing living breathing entity. If you find a restaurant or chef that has the ability to move with trends, that makes me want to eat their food.

Your strongest characteristic as a chef?

Leadership and willingness to guide and teach.

One word or phrase to describe your restaurant?

Approachable without pretension.

What inspired you to become a chef?

My dad taught me how to bake and my mom taught me to wholeheartedly chase my dreams and work as hard as you can.

What do you appreciate most in your sous chefs?

Scott Morgan is the best Sous Chef, he and I have been working together for 7 years. His ability to just know what needs to be done without being asked is a quality I couldn’t even dream of. He is the reason I can be who I am!

Your favorite ingredient?

Salt or citric acid.

Your idea of a great evening out?

Omakase sushi and a few cocktails or sake.

Your guilty pleasure meal?

Macaroni and cheese or a Chicago hotdog.

If you weren’t a chef, what would you be?

A farmer. I love gardening, and growing food that you eat!

What’s the best meal you’ve ever had?

It was at Hinoki Sushiko, which is now closed, but it was an 18 course omekase sushi paired with sake and white burgundies. Afterwards the sommelier took us to the bar where he had us do a Japanese whisky tasting and have a few specialty rolls prepared by the chef. I believe we were there for 6 hours.

If you could make a dinner reservation anywhere in the world, where would it be?

Alinea.

Try Selina Progar’s Ube Sweet Soy White Chocolate Cookies from our Cookie Table Competition.

Story by Emma Riva
Photography by Laura Petrilla

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Heat Up and Stay Healthy This Winter with Pittsburgh’s Signal Sauna

Emma Riva

January 7, 2025

A figure pours steam on hot stones in Signal Sauna

As snow blankets Pittsburgh’s craggy, unevenly-paved streets and tree-lined hillsides and the air turns dry and chilly, it’s hard to know what to do to get the cold out of your bones. Pittsburgh wind chill has a way of worming itself inside of you. One way to combat this is to surround yourself with warm air through a practice originating with the cultures of the frozen north: saunas. Luckily, Pittsburgh is home to not one, not two, not three, but four pop-up saunas. To paraphrase a now-iconic Phineas and Ferb quote, if I had a nickel for all of the pop-up saunas in Pittsburgh, I’d have four nickels—that’s not that a lot, but it’s kind of impressive that there’s that many in a small city.

Heat Up with Pittsburgh’s Signal Sauna

One of these winter oases is Signal Sauna, currently in Larimer nearby Jackworth Ginger Beer, Goodlander Cocktail Brewery, and KLVN Coffee Lab. (A potential great winter activity is an extra-spicy Jackworth Ginger Beer after a steam at Signal). Signal Founder Ryan Campbell received a Master’s Degree in Sports Science from University of Pittsburgh and wanted to combine science-backed benefits of sauna and cold plunge with a social space people could hang out.

What Are the Health Benefits of Sauna?

Those benefits include protection against neurological and cardiovascular disease, preserving muscle mass, and repair of cell damage, according to Science Direct. There are a number of ways to enjoy the sauna, and it can be a solo activity if you get a sauna blanket bag, a solo infrared sauna at a day spa, or are lucky enough to have one in your home. There are many different kinds of saunas you can find at different spa experiences. Signal Sauna is a “dry sauna,” as opposed to a “wet sauna” or steam room like you might find at a gym, meaning it gets its 150-190 degree heat from a woodfire barrel.

Once you’re inside, you can poor hot water on the rocks yourself to add extra heat and steam throughout a 90 minute session. The heat from the sauna puts your body into hormesis, a stress response that mirrors how your body responds to intense exercise. This builds muscle and increases the body’s ability to handle physical stress. A 2015 Finnish study found that individuals who sauna 2-3 times per week experienced a 23% reduction in cardiovascular-related deaths, and those who sauna 4-7 times per week saw an even more remarkable 48% reduction. Additionally, a 2017 study revealed that sauna bathing can lower the risk of dementia by 66% for those who sauna frequently (4-7 times a week) compared to those who enjoy it only once a week.

Not Just Physical Benefits

“While these health benefits are profound, what truly stands out to me is the deeper sense of well-being that sauna bathing fosters, especially when shared with others,” Campbell told TABLE.

He stressed that in divisive times, the sauna is an equalizer. “What makes the sauna even more special is its ability to bring people together across all walks of life,” Campbell said. “Whether you’re with friends or meeting strangers, it’s a place where everyone is equal, where differences fade away, and genuine connections are made.” At Signal Sauna, Campbell hosts ambient music sets, yoga classes, a book club, and a tea-time conversation hour.

“The warmth of the sauna offers more than just physical relaxation. It provides a unique space for connection and social wellness. It’s a chance to step away from the rush of daily life, unplug from technology, and simply be in the moment. In many ways, the sauna experience is like gathering at the pub but instead of a hangover, you’re left with a sense of clarity and peace.” That’s a pretty undeniable sell. As the dregs of winter plod on, consider a Pittsburgh sauna shvitz to warm your heart.

Story by Emma Riva
Photo courtesy of Signal Sauna

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The Best Meal Deals for Pittsburgh Restaurant Week 2025

Emma Riva

January 7, 2025

A plate of baklava and dolmas, part of Khalil's Mediterranean brunch for Pittsburgh Restaurant Week

Pittsburgh Restaurant Week starts January 13 and runs through Sunday, January 19 on the theme “New Dishes for the New Year.” Most are priced at intervals of 20 or 25 to celebrate 2025, which means you can eat at the hottest restaurants for a fraction of the price and enjoy chef-driven creations. We’ve compiled a few standouts from the list of 2025 participating restaurants we think are the best value on their prix-fixe menu—keep your eyes open and make your reservations now, because they fill up fast.

The Best Meal Deals for Pittsburgh Restaurant Week 2025

Paris 66

This French restaurant in East Liberty keeps it simple and classy for their Restaurant Week menu. Their escargot is excellent, and though it’s not included in the $45.25, this is also a great opportunity to pair the food with their wonderful selection of French wines. The second course items from Paris 66 are all new menu updates debuting at Restaurant Week:

First course: Petite Salad or Escargots Bourguignon
Second course: Chicken confit with cider cream sauce or Shrimp Provençale
Third course: Crème brulée or mousse au chocolat

Garbarino’s

A three-course dinner for $36.25 will probably yield some leftovers given the hefty portions at Chef Andrew Garbarino’s East Liberty restaurant. This is both a great deal and guaranteed to be delicious, so if you’ve never been, get hip and enjoy some of the creamiest pesto sauce and crispiest Brussels sprouts in the city, both of which are on this menu:

Appetizer: Baby green Salad, crispy brussels, meatballs, or beans & greens
Pasta: Spaghetti Bolognese, Rigatoni and meatballs, Rigatoni Siciliana, Spaghetti Pomodoro, Rigatoni tomato cream, Rigatoni & Ragu, or Spaghetti Pesto Alfredo. Protein add-ons available
Dessert: Cannoli or tiramisu

Khalil’s

Khalil’s has three specials for Pittsburgh Restaurant Week, a $16.25 featured entrée (Fetteh), a $32.25 Three-Course Dinner,or a $29.25 Mediterranean Sunday Brunch special just during this week. The options for the three-course dinner are:

First course: Khalil’s Signature Salad
Second course: Roasted lamb on a bed of Basmati rice mixed with
peas, peppers, sautéed onions, topped with toasted pignolia & almond nuts
Third course: Syrian dessert

Fujiya Ramen

Fujiya has one of the most extensive specials for Restaurant Week, so if you’re in Shadyside or passing through, take advantage. They have a three-course lunch or dinner menu for only $30.25 which a huge range of menu offerings, including:

Appetizer: Pork & chive gyoza, garlic cucumbers, tempura shrimp, karaage with spicy mayo or egg sauce, deep fried pork strips, takoyaki, pork buns, grilled mackerel, seaweed salad, or edamame with wasabi garlic
Entrée: Tonkotsu ramen, miso ramen, vegetarian ramen, spicy yuzu ramen, curry rice with chicken, katsu curry, spicy msio ramen, chicken ramen, beef ramen, Naruto ramen, katsudon, or curry udon with tempura shrimp
Dessert: Any flavor of mochi ice cream: matcha, lychee, mango, passion fruit, vanilla chip, cake batter, strawberry, chocolate, salted caramel, ube, or black sesame are available. You can also get Japanese cheesecake in either matcha or yuzu flavor.
Drink special: 20% off all sake & sake flights with ordering with meal.

Lemont

This glamorous Mt. Washington staple will be offering a three-course dinner for $45.25 with a mixture of local classics and hearty specialties. Enjoy the view of the city while eating some of its best food.

First course: Lemont salad, Caesar salad, wild mushroom bisque, or chicken gumbo
Second course: Parmesan crusted chicken over pasta, pistachio crusted salmon, 10 oz prime sirloin steak, risotto Milanese, or 12 oz pork chop prime rib
Third course: Chocolate layer cake, burnt almond torte, or red velvet cake

Monterey Bay Fish Grotto

Just down the road from Lemont, Monterey Bay is offering four courses of a meal for only $45.25. At a restaurant known for being an anniversary or birthday special, that’s quite the steal. Take a special someone for a pre-Valentine’s Day fine dining night out or enjoy this multi-course meal solo.

First course: Mediterranean salad, caesar salad, or she-crab bisque
Second course: Penne vodka & shrimp, chicken supreme, Jamaican grilled swordfish, filet mignon medallions, or trout almondine
Dessert: Mini angel food cake or crème brulée vanilla bean custard

Scratch & Co

Rather than a full multi-course meal, Scratch & Co is instead offering a $20.24 specialty entrée. (Pro tips: Every week can be Restaurant Week at Scratch & Co, because they have a “Complimentary” community night where small bites are complimentary and bartenders will make custom drinks based on your preferences).

Special entrée: Gemelli & meatball: Forma Pasta gemelli, house red sauce, Footprints Farm pork meatball, herbed ricotta, pecorino romano, and garlic bread (contains gluten and dairy)

The Commoner

Grab dinner downtown at The Commoner for only $45.25, perfect for curing the January blues if you miss the downtown Christmas decorations. Make a reservation for Restaurant Week and dig it:

First course: Brussels sprouts or iceberg wedge
Second course: Salmon, pork belly, or cavatelli
Dessert: Chocolate ganache or cheesecake custard

Carmella’s Plates and Pints

Get a four-course dinner for $45.25 at South Side bar and bistro Carmella’s. As you sit down and soak up the cozy vibes of the restaurant away from the bustle of East Carson Street, feast on these menu options:

Amuse-bouche: Salted caramel chocolate pretzel
First course: Clam chowder or roasted cauliflower
Second course: pork schnitzel, flank steak, ember roasted beet hearts, or hunter’s stews
Third course: Gluten free Buckeye brownie or pineapple upside down cake

Visit Pittsburgh Restaurant Week for more information about participating restaurants.

Story by Emma Riva
Photo by Jeff Swensen courtesy of Khalil’s

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Tasting Pittsburgh’s Best Almond Torte

Emma Riva

January 7, 2025

A burnt almond torte on a white background

The almond torte is undeniably a Pittsburgh classic. We had sixteen tasters try four almond torte cakes from local businesses, then put together the data to give you a guide to the best almond tortes in Pittsburgh. The Huffington Post once called Prantl’s Burnt Almond Torte “the best cake in America,” but there are a lot more almond tortes out there to try. Whether you’re looking for creamy filling or strong almond flavor, there’s something for everyone out there.

History of the Almond Torte

Legend has it that there was an almond surplus in 1970 and the Almond Board had been pushing bakers to use almonds in new and inventive ways. One Henry Prantl of Pittsburgh attended a bakers’ conference in California and took note of one bakery’s almond cake, which he then adapted with burnt almonds and buttercream.

But over time, more and more bakeries have done their own spins on the Burnt Almond Torte, including major supermarket brands like Giant Eagle. Like Heinz Ketchup, Prantl’s Burnt Almond Torte has earned a privileged status in Pittsburgh. Because of its prominence, we wanted our tasters to go in blind, free of name brand prejudice. The results: Giant Eagle’s version edged out the others, but each bakery had its share of fans.

The Pittsburgh Almond Torte Taste Test

Giant Eagle

Voted #1 by 6 people out of 16

Giant Eagle has by far the strongest almond and vanilla flavors, with a drier, sturdier texture than the other cakes. There’s less emphasis on the filling, letting the cake shine through. It caught the fancy of editor-in-chief Keith Recker, who ranked it first in his lineup of tortes and felt it was underrated by Pittsburghers who might turn up their noses at a cake from a supermarket bakery. The brand name shouldn’t stop you from heading to the Giant Eagle bakery for a high quality almond torte by bakers who know what they’re doing.

Prantl’s

Voted #1 by 4 people out of 16

Prantl’s is how many people first encounter the burnt almond torte, and it gets props for its historical precedent. One thing to note is that, since 2007, Prantl’s has not been under the ownership of the Prantl family. In this torte, the almond crust is an important part of the flavor experience. It leans into the “burnt” part of burnt almond torte with a more heavily toasted, crunchy texture. The Prantl’s version appears to be more about the texture and appearance than the overall flavor. Of the four contestants, Prantl’s crust was most praised.

Oakmont Bakery

Voted #1 by 3 people out of 16

Several people noted that in terms of overall execution of the cake, Oakmont Bakery was the best. Its sponginess is almost angel-food like. The qualities of flavor, crunch, and sponge approached a more balanced state in Oakmont Bakery’s take compared to other contestants. Interestingly, a huge number of our tasters rated it second in their rankings. Drawing a little bit from the best qualities of each element of the cake offered a well-rounded version. Maybe that’s a lesson we can all take something from!

Kretchmar’s

Voted #1 by 3 people out of 16

The Kretchmar’s cake had a delightful sponginess to it and good balance of flavor. The buttercream icing and custard filling were an important part of the experience. As a result, the textures are softer by comparison to the other cakes. While the flavor itself is rich, the almond comes through less strongly. The custard and buttercream are the star of the show and Kretchmar’s deserves a shoutout for doing a great job here.

Story by Emma Riva
Photography by Dave Bryce

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5 Pittsburgh Events This Weekend (January 6-12)

Kylie Thomas

January 6, 2025

Three small bonsai trees sit on small wooden stands in the middle of a greenhouse at Phipps in Pittsburgh.

It’s a new year in Pittsburgh and there’s no better way to kick January off than with events to keep your weekend busy whether you’re with friends, family, or even by yourself. This upcoming schedule is a big one for those who love the arts and culture. You can head out to take in a musical performance, explore American art, or even stroll through a tropical flower show to bring a little warmth in the wintertime.

5 Pittsburgh Events This Weekend (January 6-12)

Funny Girl

January 7-12, Benedum Center

Get ready to be dazzled by the Tony Award-winning Broadway revival tour of Funny Girl. Featuring iconic songs every theater kid knows like Don’t Rain on My Parade and People, this heartwarming and hilarious musical tells the inspiring story of Fanny Brice, simply put, a Broadway legend. With stunning choreography, a brilliant cast, and a timeless score, this production is a must-see for theater lovers of all ages.

Art on Tap: Casino Night

January 10, Westmoreland Museum of American Art

Ring in the New Year with a night of casino games, live music, and delicious drinks at Art on Tap’s Casino Night. Experience the thrill of the casino floor with table games provided by Live! Casino Pittsburgh. Plus, enjoy a variety of cocktails and light bites while taking in the exhibits. All Art on Tap events include one complimentary drink with your ticket purchase.

Debussy’s La Mer

January 10 and 12, Heinz Hall

Let the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra take you on a journey through the sea. Experience the mesmerizing sounds of Debussy’s La Mer, a piece that captures the ever-changing moods of the ocean. Sibelius’s The Oceanides follows, echoing the powerful forces of the sea. Plus, renowned violinist Vadim Gluzman joins the orchestra to perform Prokofiev’s Violin Concerto No. 2, a work that showcases the violin as the most beautiful instrument.

Wildest Dreams: An Evening of Original Songs

January 11, Mary Pappert School of Music Dr. Thomas D. Pappert Center for Performance and Innovation

Get ready for a night of soulful original music and lyrics by Rachel Whitcomb. Rachel’s music is a blend of country, blues, Americana, and adult contemporary, with a touch of her own unique style. She takes the stage with her talented band, including Nashville fiddle player Ryan Joseph plus Pittsburgh’s own Jacob Zang on guitar and Steve Benham on bass.

Orchid and Tropical Bonsai Show: A Moment of Beauty

January 11-March 9, Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Garden

Escape the winter chill and walk through a tropical landscape at Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Garden. The Orchid and Tropical Bonsai Show offers a breathtaking display of vibrant orchids and strong bonsai trees. Each section features a different colorful theme from Palm Court to the serene Serpentine Room. There will even be a display on Kokedama, which is the Japanese art of growing plants in a moss-covered ball.

Story by Kylie Thomas
Photo Courtesy of Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Garden

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Apple Cider Manhattan Game Day Cocktail

Justin Matase

January 5, 2025

Game+Day+Cocktail+Apple++Cider+Manhattan+TABLE+Magazine — The official ruling on the play is a touchdown with this game day cocktail.

The Apple Cider Manhattan makes the ultimate game day cocktail, featuring winter spices and face warming bourbon. The addition of apple cider turns down this drink a bit from the traditional manhattan and allows your guests to enjoy more than one during the time outs and commercial breaks! Supercharge your game day and make this cocktail by the batch! Take all the oz. instructions and switch to cups, and you’ve got a blitz!

The Whiskey We Use for Our Apple Cider Manhattan

We’ve used “Dubliner Steelers Select Irish Whiskey” available in Pittsburgh. It’s crafted for Steeler Nation by the Dublin Liberties Distillery — a proud partner of the Pittsburgh Steelers. This unique, limited-edition blend celebrates 90 seasons of football for the Steelers franchise and is a must-have for any fan. The whiskey is created with a hand-selected blend of perfectly balanced whiskeys and aged up to 10 years in the finest American bourbon casks. Perfect for your game day cocktail!

Apple Cider Manhattan Game Day

Author: Justin Matase

Print Recipe

Description

Perfect for calming your nerves as you watch the big game.

Ingredients

Scale

2 oz of Dubliner Whiskey (we used *Dubliner Steelers Select Irish Whiskey available at your local PA Fine Wine and Good Spirits)
.5 oz of red vermouth
1.5 oz of fresh apple cider
.5 oz of fresh lemon juice
2 dashes of angostura bitters

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Combine all ingredients in a cocktail shaker and give a light shake to combine and chill ingredients.
Serve over one large ice cube or up in a martini glass.

Did you make this recipe?

Share a photo and tag us — we can’t wait to see what you’ve made!

Feast While You Sip on This Game Day Recipe

Chili Baby Back Ribs
Marinated Chicken Tostadas
Parmesan Baked Potato Salad
Roasted Sausage Board
Zesty Shrimp Roll

Recipe and Story by Justin Matase
Styling by Keith Recker
Photography by Dave Bryce

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Proust Questionnaire with Chef Roger Li

Emma Riva

January 4, 2025

Roger Li stands at a platter of dumplings

Roger Li is behind some of Pittsburgh’s most inventive restaurants. From the speakeasy izakaya vibe of Umami to the bustling dim sum platters and conversation in The Parlor to the unique bottles and clinking glasses at Allegheny Wine Mixer, Li is a multitalented chef and restauranteur Pittsburgh is lucky to have. We gave him a set of questions from the Proust Questionnaire, a no-frills way to get to the heart of what makes any artisan tick, culinary masters included. Get to know the man behind the dumplings and sushi a little better with these questions.