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8 Recipes for Your Mardi Gras Spread

By
Kylie Thomas
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A gumbo enriched with ham and andouille sausage for a Creole-style feast.

When you think of Mardi Gras, also known as Fat Tuesday, you probably think of bright colors, parades, shiny beads around everyone’s necks, and plenty of comfort cooking. This Carnival celebration is an all-out, all-rich-foods celebration right before Ash Wednesday starts the fasting season of Lent. Join in the festivities this year and cook up a feast fit for royalty! You don’t have to be in New Orleans to enjoy the traditional dishes of Mardi Gras. From flaky, delicious desserts to hearty, flavorful, seafood dinner dishes, we’re sure this spread will leave your stomach so full you’ll be happy the fasting season has arrived the next morning. 

Celebrate Mardi Gras with These New Orleans Recipes

King Cake

A braided bread with berries and other seasonings inside it, surrounded by small blue plates and various ingredients.

The King Cake is a tradition for Mardi Gras and the holiday of Epiphany (Three Kings Day) on January 6. This combination coffee cake and cinnamon roll is sweet and delicious with a baby hidden inside to represent baby Jesus. Whoever gets the slice with the figure wins a prize. We recommend decorating your king cake with the purple, yellow, and green frosting or sprinkles to really get into the Mardi Gras spirit. 

Jambalaya

Jambalaya in a bowl placed on a ceramic surface along with a spoon, spices, and lemon

What says New Orleans more than a big bowl of Jambalaya? It’s warm, spicy, and made from the heart. Our recipe piles the protein high with chicken, shrimp, and smoked sausage mixed into rice, celery, onion, green pepper, and a savory broth. It’s a recipe that reminds you there’s nothing quite like homemade cooking.

Green Gumbo

A gumbo enriched with ham and andouille sausage for a Creole-style feast.

Fat Tuesday is right before Lent so feel free to load up your gumbo with ham, andouille sausage, slab bacon, or all three! Our Green Gumbo starts with a rich stock of smoked ham hock or slab bacon, bay leaves, black peppercorn, and allspice berries. Then we add in your choice of protein, onion, celery heart, bell pepper, kale, collard greens, and so much more to make this a fulfilling dish for your celebration. 

Braised Beef Short Ribs with Cheddar Cheese Grits

Tender braised beef atop cheesy grits.

Grits are another staple of Louisiana, especially when they’re cheesy! In this recipe, we pair them with a Braised Beef Short Ribs recipe whose results are so tender, the meat falls off the bone. A perfect accompaniment to creamy Cheddar Cheese Grits. It’s truly a comfort dish at its finest level that’ll make you feel like you’re at a cafe on the streets of New Orleans. 

Turmeric Lemon Beignets

Powdered sugar topped beignets sit in a black bowl while a plate of beignets sits unfocused in the back.

Who would we be if we didn’t include beignets in our Mardi Gras menu? This recipe combines the vibrant flavors of turmeric and lemon to create a unique and unforgettable treat. These fluffy, golden squares of fried dough are not only delightful in their cloud-like texture but in their punch of flavor as well.

Zesty Shrimp Roll

A plate of mini shrimp sandwiches.

If you’re looking for a smaller bite that still incorporates essentials like shrimp and a little bit of spice, our Zesty Shrimp Rolls are your perfect appetizer. Grab your favorite bun and stuff it up with shrimp, celery, carrots, and fennel, then coat in a zesty, tangy sauce of mayonnaise, sour cream, chili flakes, lime, and lemon. So simple to make and just as easy to enjoy.

Wintertime Rice and Beans

Wintertime Rice and Beans served in a steel bowl

Every feast needs a side that matches its excellency. For Mardi Gras, that means red beans and rice which give you a cushion for spicy gumbo and other dishes. Our Wintertime Rice and Beans uses white rice, adzuki beans, black beans, Vindaloo curry spice, and a pinch of saffron for something a little more flavorful than your average recipe.

Oyster Shooter

A look in photo of an etched shooter glass with an oyster on the half shell resting on the top of the glass on a black surface, with another oyster shooter in the background along with a dish of oysters.

What better way is there to end a Mardi Gras dinner than with an Oyster Shooter? This combination of deliciously salty oyster with a rich Bloody Mary shot is simple decadence. We welcome you to dress up your oyster as well though our Bloody Mary mix uses horseradish Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, and fresh ground black pepper.

Story by Kylie Thomas

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Violinist Mia Asano on Rocking the Classical Music World

By
Kylie Thomas
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Mia Asano in a black dress with her red flying v violin over her shoulder.

Throw everything you knew about classic music and violin out the window because Mia Asano is here to change it all. A skillful, classically trained artist, Mia uses the violin in ways you would never expect or really be able to imagine. With the use of an electric style violin, she shreds as if it’s a mini guitar, transforming music in other genres with the touch of her bow. Think Metallica hits with a wailing, melodic but nearly gritty violin over top. Better yet, see her for yourself at Crafthouse Stage & Grill in Pittsburgh on March 13. 

We sat down with Mia ahead of the performance to get the inside scoop on what killer songs could be in store and what exactly to expect when she and her violin hit the stage. 

Talking Pittsburgh, Classical Music, and More with Violinist Mia Asano

TABLE Magazine: How would you describe your genre?

Mia Asano: This is a great question, because what I do really spans a lot of genres. The best way I can describe it is classical crossover meets symphonic metal. You could also call it violin rock—there are a bunch of ways to describe it—but classical crossover makes the most sense to me. I’ve actually charted on the Billboard Classical Crossover charts. I’m taking a very traditional instrument and turning it into something you’ve probably never heard before, so that’s what I’d call my genre.

TM: What makes the violin so special to you?

MA: Like I mentioned before, the violin isn’t just a traditional instrument. It’s capable of so much more. With electric violin, I can make it sound like almost any instrument, especially an electric guitar. It’s incredibly diverse—I can play so many styles of music, whether it’s something beautiful and symphonic or heavy rock and metal. That versatility is what I love most, because it lets me express my very diverse music taste through one instrument.

Mia in a black dress on stage playing her violin.

TM: How do you blend modern and traditional playing styles to create your own sound?

MA: When I was young, I was a huge fan of rock music—alternative rock, metal, all of it. I realized early on that I could play my favorite songs on the violin. I started by learning the vocal melodies, but pretty quickly I figured out I could play guitar parts, synth lines, even bass parts. With my seven-string violin, I basically try to learn every single part of the song I’m covering.

Now that I’m writing my own original music, I’ve taken everything I’ve learned from all these different styles and put it into one record. It’s a mix of symphonic music, metal, electronic, pop—basically all my favorite genres—and I’m really excited about it.

TM: What’s one word you’d use to describe your tour?

MA: Electrifying. It’s going to be so exciting and very rock-focused. You’ve never seen anything like this with a violin. I’ll be headbanging, dancing around, shredding—I have an amazing band. There’s really no better word for it.

TM: What are you most excited about playing in Pittsburgh? Have you been there before?

MA: Yes, I’ve been to Pittsburgh a few times. I’ve played at City Winery before, and I love the city. I used to live on the East Coast—I went to music school in Boston—so I spent a lot of time bouncing around different East Coast states.

I’m especially excited because I’ve never played a solo headline show in Pittsburgh before. It’ll be my first time at Crafthouse. It’s going to be a huge party, and I’m so excited.

Mia Asano on stage in front of a large crowd.

TM: What do you hope audiences take away from your show?

MA: I hope people walk away realizing that the violin isn’t just a classical instrument—it’s capable of so much more. I also hope they enjoy hearing my unreleased original music, because I’ll be debuting it live at these shows for the first time.

It’s going to be a big party. I’ll also be playing a lot of fan-favorite covers that have gone viral online, so there’s something for everyone. It’s a show you can bring your grandma to, or take your friends to—there’s a little bit of everything.

I’m also excited because my good friend Billy Wilkins will be opening for me—he plays guitar with DragonForce—and my bass player, Alicia, is actually also the bass player for DragonForce. It’s going to be a super fun show, and I can’t wait to play in Pittsburgh!

Story by Kylie Thomas
Photos Courtesy of Mia Asano

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Pittsburgh Events: Your Guide to February 16-22

By
Kylie Thomas
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0
One man moves another mans head to look upward on a Pittsburgh stage.

Though Valentine’s Day is over and Saint Patrick’s Day is on its way, there’s still plenty happening in Pittsburgh besides the main holiday events. The Steel City is a treasure trove for memorable performances, festivals full of flair, as well as learning all along the way. This week from February 16-22, dive into what the city has to offer before the holidays have us back on our toes again.

Pittsburgh Events Happening February 16-22

A little girl Annie sings into a mop while standing on a desk.
Photo Courtesy of Annie

Annie

February 19-March 1, Byham Theater

You’ve seen the movie, you’ve heard the music, but now the Tony Award-winning musical Annie is here in the ‘Burgh thanks to Pittsburgh Musical Theater. This heartwarming classic is the perfect way to get the whole family into going to the theater.  Follow little red-headed orphan Annie as she attempts to escape the miserable Miss Hannigan. Along the way also meets billionaire Oliver Warbucks and the dog, Sandy.

Pittsburgh Winter Beerfest
Photo Courtesy of Pittsburgh Beerfest

Pittsburgh Winter Beerfest

February 21, David L. Lawrence Convention Center

Shake off the chill with samples from more than 150 craft breweries, distilleries, and wineries at the Pittsburgh Winter Beerfest. Your ticket gets you four as well as a half-hour of open sampling in an 8 oz souvenir mug. Besides the aisles and aisles of brews you can also check out plenty of food vendors and other booths such as products from PSquare Scents and live caricature artists. 

Lewis Hine Pictures America woman cleaning the ground
Photo Courtesy of The Frick Art Museum

Lewis Hine Pictures America

February 21-May 17, The Frick Art Museum

Wisconsin-born photographer Lewis Hine trained his lens on (often harsh) scenes of reality at the dawn of the 20th century. His art depicts crowds of immigrants arriving at Ellis Island, child laborers toiling under dangerous conditions, as well as laborers sweating in punishing industrial environments. His touring exhibit of more than 70 rare photographs on display even includes some of Hine’s work in the Pittsburgh region within the steel industry. 

One man moves another mans head to look upward on a Pittsburgh stage.
Photo Courtesy of Pittsburgh Public Theater

An Enemy of the People

February 4-22, O’Reilly Theater

Pittsburgh Public Theater brings Amy Herzog’s re-envisioning of Henrik Ibsen’s masterpiece to the stage. At the center is Dr. Thomas Stockman, a physician who uncovers a deadly secret that is invading his town’s new spa. Both urgent and unsettling, this drama transforms the 19th-century classic into a contemporary warning about environmental responsibility with a reflective  political spin.

The Lisette Project plays on stage with string instruments and a solo singer in the front.
Photo Courtesy of Chatham Baroque

The Lisette Project: Haitian Creole Music

February 22, Levy Hall at Rodef Shalom Congregation

Explore the origins of Lisette quitté la plaine, the earliest known song text in Haitian Creole, written in the mid-18th century showcasing the story of an enslaved African man. This program from the Chatham Baroque traces the song’s fascinating journey across Haiti, France, Cuba, and then New Orleans, weaving together African, Caribbean, and European traditions.

Story by Kylie Thomas
Featured Photo Courtesy of Pittsburgh Public Theater

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Alexis Allen Co. Puts On a ‘Where the Wild Things Are’ Kids Party

By
Abdul Rafay
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0
Children at a "Where the Wild Things Are" themed birthday party sitting on plush floor pillows around a rustic driftwood table in a mystical forest setting.

Turning a beloved children’s book into a party is a work of art. Alexis Allen, the professional who made this gathering happen, says you can do it, too!

If bedtime stories are, or were, a ritual at your house, you know Max. In Maurice Sendak’s Where the Wild Things Are, he dresses in a wolf suit and tells his mother, “I’ll eat you up!” Sent to bed without dinner that night, his room becomes a forest by the sea where a boat sails him to the kingdom of the Wild Things. There, Max tames the ferocious beasts who crown him King of the Wild Things. Enthroned, he sends the beasts to bed hungry but, feeling homesick, sails home to find his dinner in his room, still warm. The tale speaks to a child’s anger and mastery of fear, as well as to parents’ unconditional love and how food helps quell “the beast.”

A tiered layer cake decorated to look like a birch tree trunk topped with a gold crown, featured at a "Where the Wild Things Are" themed birthday party.

The Perfect Kid’s Party Theme: Where the Wild Things Are

The 1963 kiddie lit classic turned out to be the perfect theme for a children’s birthday party. Alexis Allen Co., event experts who curate weddings, fundraisers, mitzvahs and birthdays, planned it. “It’s a marriage of everything I love. Business, creativity, and people,” says Alexis. She founded the five-person firm two-and-a-half years ago after working on events for nonprofits for many years.

Two young girls sitting on floor cushions at a "Where the Wild Things Are" party table, enjoying cheeseburger croissants and sun butter pinwheels.

Staying true to Sendak’s text and illustrations, lead planner Meredith Roteman got to work. Her earthy tones turned the spacious Rialto Suite at Hotel Monaco into a mystical forest. The elementary school-aged guests explored it gleefully.

A tiered wooden display featuring gourmet cupcakes decorated with gold crowns and green forest-themed frosting at a themed children's party.
A collection of "Where the Wild Things Are" themed cake pops and decorated cookies, including designs featuring Max, the Wild Things, and a gold crown.

All About the Décor from Alexis Allen Co.

The backdrop for the setting was a large drape featuring a beautiful forest image. Lush plants and faux greenery from greenSinner layered in front of the backdrops created a three dimensional effect. The “wild” forest theme continued with a rustic driftwood table draped with greens, a faux fur runner, and more. Shimmering leaf-patterned placemats and lively dinnerware added a sense of fantasy. The kids quickly found their places on cushy fleece pillows around the candlelit scene.

A colorful crudité appetizer served in a stemless acrylic wine glass featuring cucumber, carrots, and tomatoes at a themed children's party.
A young boy in a white button-down shirt toasts with a small glass milk bottle of apple juice and a striped straw at a candlelit forest-themed party.

A Buffet for Kiddie Kings

The buffet offered healthy options. Cheeseburger croissants, ham and cheese tea sandwiches, sun butter and jelly pinwheels, and French toast sticks were tempting! Colorful crudites in stemless acrylic wine glasses provided crunch. And tons of sweets. There were three tall, frosted layer cakes. One sported a gold crown. One dripped with greenery. The third resembled a tree trunk with a hidey hole. Each looked almost too good to eat, as did cake pops inspired by Sendak’s Wild Things and their king. Similarly appealing, cookies decorated with “I’ll Eat You Up” and “King of the Wild Things” were gobbled up quickly. The kids toasted with apple juice served in small glass milk bottles with fun paper straws, and dug in.

Elaborate children’s parties are trending. Perhaps driven by a social media environment for the photo ops, many parents aim high for their kids’ parties. Alexis, herself the mom of one of the guests, says with humor, “At the end of the day, the kids just want to run around.”

Two young girls smiling at a candlelit forest-themed party.

A DIY Approach to Kid’s Party Planning

Not everyone can afford a professional planner like Alexis, but a limited budget shouldn’t rule out a magical event if you’re willing do the work, she adds. DIYers might borrow some tips from Meredith, who spent a month bringing the Wild Things party to life using imagination, reliable vendors, and lots of spread sheets.

The first step any special event is researching and conceptualizing the vision and sharing it with vendors. “It’s great because everyone is creative and an expert in their field,” says Meredith of the bakers, chefs, floral designers, and others who provide themed invitations, decorations, refreshments, linens, tableware, favors, seating, and other essentials.

A young girl in a brown faux fur coat and green headband smiling while holding a fan of "Where the Wild Things Are" themed playing cards.

Planning a party like this takes 15-30 hours, but setup only takes a few hours because the planners coordinate the logical order in which vendors need to come: “There’s incredible detail on the backend, so the vision comes to life seamlessly” Alexis says. Of course, sometimes “stuff “happens, which is why they always have a backup plan and are ready to pivot and problem solve, she adds.

French toast sticks being dusted with powdered sugar, served with fresh blackberries on a decorative plate at a themed party.

Meredith measures the success of an event by the guests’ level of engagement, which at this Wild Things party included using the decorations for an impromptu pillow fight. “Something can look gorgeous, Meredith says, “but if the logistics aren’t in place for guests to relax and enjoy themselves, that can make or break an event.”

Story by Susan Fleming Morgans
Photography by Laura Petrilla
Production by Alexis Allen and Meredith Roteman, Alexis Allen Co.
Florals by Green Sinner
Linens by Party Mosaic
Rentals by The 1978 Collection
Desserts by Bella Christie’s Sweet Boutique
Cookies by Becca Bakes Cookies
Acrylic Tabletop Displays by SpeedPro Pittsburgh North
Food by Common Plea Catering
Shot on location at Hotel Monaco

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‘Go See a Show’ Every Night in Pittsburgh with a New Campaign

By
Kylie Thomas
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0
Two men on stage look at a bowl in a kitchen scene area.

A new campaign aims to make it easy for Pittsburghers to “Go See a Show” in venues large as well as small across the city.

The Go See a Show Campaign Launches in Pittsburgh Thanks to City Theatre and Pittsburgh Public Theater

The mission, and function, of the Go See a Show campaign is simple.

As James McNeel, managing director of City Theatre, puts it: “You can see theater every night, if you want. Here’s where to find it.”

At the Go See a Show Pittsburgh website, an easy-to-navigate list of current and upcoming theater productions includes shows big as well as small. Community groups sit alongside Cultural District institutions. Each show listing links to a ticketing site — not to mention most offer a significant discount on tickets.

“There’s something about being a community committed to arts and culture,” says Shaunda McDill, managing director of Pittsburgh Public Theater. “The reality is that we know, for a fact, that we are better together — and by utilizing something like Go See a Show, we are able to invest in other organizations.”

A man in a play walks on stage in a white suit and red hat while the other stands at a kitchen sink.

Finding Theaters (and Audiences) Throughout the Region

Inspired by similar efforts in Portland and Washington, D.C., the Go See a Show campaign was developed with funding from the Allegheny Regional Asset District (RAD); earmarked for a future collaboration between City Theatre and the Public Theater, the companies opted (with RAD’s blessing) to put the money toward an initiative that would lift companies throughout western Pennsylvania.

“There are cultural districts across this region,” McNeel says. “This is a way of lifting [them] up. It’s just smart business, too … While we do have crossover amongst our audience, obviously, it wasn’t as much as we thought, and it wasn’t as much as we had prior to the pandemic,” when theatergoing habits changed profoundly. Combined with a downturn in media coverage for arts events — “We have a real deficit in terms of how you get the word out about this culturally rich community,” McNeel says — the need to amplify shows throughout the region was clear.

One-Stop Shopping for Live Theater

The Go See a Show website, which will be active at least through July, lists the next event from each of the more than 20 (and counting) organizations that are taking part in the campaign. The website does not charge partner organizations for inclusion; they only ask them to keep information current, McNeel says.

In an era when many arts organizations face reduced funding, McDill says efforts like Go See a Show help remind locals of the abundance of art in their communities.

“There’s so many things happening in the city; how do we put forth something together, in a unified fashion, that speaks to the arts portion of arts and culture?”

The Go See a Show website is live, with links to 17 current and upcoming performances, now.

Story by Sean Collier
Photos by Kristi Jan Hoover for Malcolm X and Redd Foxx City Theatre

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Pittsburgh Party Planners to Hire for Weddings, Birthdays, and More

By
Jordan Snowden
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A man and woman hold hands at a wedding alter with flowers and candles surrounding them on the stairs.

Looking to throw a celebration that feels unforgettable? Pittsburgh has no shortage of talented party planners who know how to turn weddings, birthdays, and every milestone in between into seamless, stress-free events

Pittsburgh Area Party Planners

Yinz Getting Married 

Wedding planner Meg Van Dyke brings her radiant sunshine and boundless energy into every event she takes on. She takes your budget seriously, and your happiness even more so. Start with a free consultation, and the rest is easy.

Shayla Hawkins Events 

The staff at Shayla Hawkins pursues every event with a passion: they want you not just to enjoy your party but to really love it and feel at home while the festivities go on. Their command of detail is what makes their services special—presenting and planning everything with care.  

Wanderlust Weddings and Events 

Women-owned and -operated, Wanderlust brings a personal approach to their work. They design your event for you, with a keen interest in your vision and goals. They will help you walk through the process towards a stress-free day of joy. 

The Event Group 

Some of Pittsburgh’s swankiest corporate events are planned by The Event Group. They know their way around all of Pittsburgh’s event resources and major venues, so you can focus on having fun, not the planning busywork.

Alexis Allen 

Alexis Allen designs events because she loves the work. She’s been in the event field since college, taking her skills to Pittsburgh, Los Angeles, and New York City. Count on her for originality, fun, and attention to detail. As she says, “The perfect event is your wildest dreams made manifest.”

Luxe Creative 

Martin Edwards designed lighting for Madonna, Rihanna, and others, and he brings a special sense of flair and drama to every wedding and gala he plans. His team provides turnkey services from the initial planning phase right up to the big night, and beyond.  

Olive & Rose 

In a wedding planner, kindness and sensitivity really count. Olive & Rose pride themselves on being warm and authentic for the couples that trust them with their special day. Their event planners are all local Pittsburghers who love what they do and promise to make your party modern, memorable, and chic.

Story by Jordan Snowden and Emma Riva
Photo by Rachel Rowland

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Caterers Around Pittsburgh for Any Group Big or Small

By
Jordan Snowden
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0
A man puts a red sauce onto a pail full of oysters at a table.

Great food has a way of setting the tone for any gathering. Around Pittsburgh, caterers are serving up comfort classics and elevated crowd-pleasing spreads that work just as well for intimate dinners as they do for packed events. Each proves that local is just simply better.

Pittsburgh Caterers for All Sizes of Groups

The Fluted Mushroom

A customizable menu and a 500-person wedding facility make The Fluted Mushroom a highly sought-after catering service. They know that every party is unique, so they’ll help you pick the best space, create a menu that best suits your guests, and have the best time.

The Chef and I Catering

Whether you’re after light bites and appetizers or a full-plated meal or buffet, this off-site caterer in Brackenridge offers a range of cuisine options, including American, Italian, Indian, Southern, and Cajun dishes.

Common Plea Catering

Common Plea Catering is the exclusive caterer for the Heinz History Center and a preferred vendor at many corporate venues throughout the city of Pittsburgh. Plus, they were originally a restaurant known for its seafood, so you know the hospitality is top notch.

Sausalido

Sausalido strives to creatively present delicious, diverse meals by offering a variety of choices from starters like white truffle deviled eggs to family-style dining with themed menus like Pittsburgh Yinzer as well as Asian Fusion. Don’t forget to try the Sausalido Premier spice line!

Bistro To Go

At Bistro To Go, the chefs are committed to using only the freshest ingredients. They want you to think of them as your culinary designers, ready to create unforgettable menus and flavor combinations that fit your budget, vision, and dreams. Since the food is prepared off-site, it also makes managing logistics a breeze.

Black Radish Kitchen

Led by Kate Romane, Black Radish Kitchen is a queer-owned boutique catering business offering customizable seasonal menus from BBQ to Middle Eastern and seafood. They provide on-site chef services, rental coordination, as well as bartending and server staff. They also collaborate with various wedding service providers in Pittsburgh and offer kosher, vegan, vegetarian, organic, and nut-, dairy-, and gluten-free options.

Sprezzatura

Not everyone is lucky enough to have a big Italian family, but with Jen Saffron and her staff from Sprezzatura handling your catering, you’ll feel like you do. They also operate at the Gold Level of Sustainable Pittsburgh’s food industry model, so you can feel good about what you’re eating. Saffron is an artist and brings a creative eye to all of her platters, turning delicious ingredients into works of edible art.

Story by Jordan Snowden and Emma Riva
Photo by Rachel Rowland

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Best Pittsburgh Stores for Bridal Dresses, Wedding Suits, and Formalwear

By
Jordan Snowden
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0
A man in a pink suit and a woman in a long pink dress stand on a roof holding a bouquet of flowers.

Finding the right wedding look is a big moment and Pittsburgh has plenty of stores that make it feel special. Bridal boutiques and modern spots for suits around the city offers options for every style, budget, and vibe. Not to mention, you can pick up looks for your bridesmaids, flower girl, mother of the bride, and groomsmen too.

Pittsburgh Clothing Stores for the Bride, Groom, Flower Girl, and Everyone in Between

Bridal Beginning

Bridal Beginning in Mount Lebanon boasts Pittsburgh’s largest collection of wedding gowns, including Hayley Paige’s classic designs with a modern twist, the bold styles of Ukrainian designer Milla Nova, and the urban chic creations of Sareh Nouri. Appointments are required.

Heinz Healey’s

A renowned men’s clothier specializing in classic fashion and tailored suits, Heinz Healy’s has a reputation for quality craftsmanship and exceptional customer service. They offer a curated selection of high-end clothing and accessories, along with personalized fittings to ensure a flawless look.

Pale Blue Thread

Pale Blue Thread will help you discover your dream gown through custom, one-of-a-kind creations to make you look your best and let your unique personality shine through. Unexpected textures and innovative silhouettes make their styles ideal for bold, unique, and unconventional clients!

Blanc De Blanc Bridal

Blanc De Blanc Bridal brings classy, international style to Pittsburgh. The boutique features a curated selection of fresh, modern gowns from around the world, offering something for every taste. Bring your maids of honor, pop the champagne, and let the good times roll!

Knotzland

Want to save the planet while celebrating your loved ones? Knotzland upcycles discarded fabrics into unique, stylish accessories, combining fashion with environmental responsibility. Each bow tie is blends meticulous crafting with individuality, creating something for every wearer.

Clarissa Boutique

For a chic shopping experience in Lawrenceville, look no further than Clarissa Boutique. Whether designing a custom veil or headpiece, incorporating a family heirloom, or selecting, restoring, modernizing, or recreating pieces, their creative expertise ensures you’ll look like your most gorgeous, authentic self.

Larrimor’s

Larrimor’s stands out as a top luxury clothing retailer in Pittsburgh, featuring a carefully curated collection that includes everything from tailored suits and elegant dresses to stylish casual wear. With offerings like custom tailoring and personalized style consultations, Larrimor’s ensures a perfect fit.

Bridal Maven

Not all bridal shops prioritize inclusivity, but Bridal Maven, Pittsburgh’s premier bridal consignment boutique, makes sure there’s something for every bride in their inventory. Their emphasis on plus-size options stands out, and they are one of the few bridal shops in Pittsburgh to offer brides the opportunity to buy and sell their gowns. If you want to “save the Earth, save money, and look fabulous,” this is the shop for you.

Luxe Redux Bridal

Luxe Redux Bridal specializes in offering designer wedding gowns — like Hayley Paige, Lazaro, and Vera Wang — at a fraction of the original cost. Pittsburgh brides-to-be can shop in-store and take home their dream dress straight off the rack or enjoy the convenience of the Luxe in a Box service, which delivers luxury gowns to your door for an at-home try-on experience.

Sorelle Bridal Salon

Sorelle Bridal Salon is where brides, bridesmaids, mothers, and flower girls can all find something special for the big day. True to its name — Sorelle means “sisters” in Italian — this family-focused salon creates a warm, welcoming atmosphere for everyone. Appointments required.

Story by Jordan Snowden and Emma Riva
Photo by Rachel Rowland

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Aphrodisiac Foods for Love

By
Keith Recker
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0
An overhead photo of aphrodisiac foods like cherries, chocolate, asparagus, walnuts, honey, strawberries, chilies, saffron, and pomegranate in small bowls and on little dishes on a textured white surface with rose petals.

Ancient lore says that aphrodisiac ingredients put a tiger in our proverbial tank; there could be some scientific truth in the old beliefs surrounding aphrodisiac foods for love.

Aphrodisiac Foods for Love

Pomegranate

A fancy bottle with a deep red Good Luck Sparkling Pomegranate Cosmo on a tray with 2 cocktail glasses, orange slices, an open pomegranate, and lemon slices in front of a blurred Christmas tree.

The juice of the pomegranate contains over 100 phytochemicals including polyphenol, the antioxidant that gives it a lovely red color. Antioxidants help decrease inflammation and remove plaque from your vascular system, which means the blood flows more freely everywhere…if you get the message. It is thought to be helpful in combatting heart disease and blood pressure, as well. Lastly, drinking pomegranate juice has been shown to increase testosterone production in both sexes, helping our sex drives to stay on the highway to happiness.

Use our Good Luck Sparkling Pomegranate Cosmo Cocktail as a welcoming cocktail to stir up your feelings and invite a bit of positivity into the evening.

Chocolate

An overhead photo of a chocolate cut cut into wedges with berries, on a blue wooden surface.

The antioxidant flavonoids in dark chocolate, like those found in pomegranates and berries, help address inflammation, which is essential in fighting cancer and keeping the heart healthy. Paradoxically, antioxidants help with weight loss, which puts small doses of good, pure chocolate on many healthy food lists. The natural caffeine and phenylethylamine in chocolate give us a little extra energy and a sense of well-being, as well. Les bonbons sont si bons!

Why not prepare our Dutch Chocolate Cake with Fruit to share with your special someone?

Asparagus

An overhead photo of an oval dish with pickled asparagus spears, a glove of garlic, and a bay leaf, on a black surface with sprinkled salt.

Many aphrodisiac foods get their sexy reputation because they look like something sexy. Does a firm spear of asparagus work any magic on you? If not, perhaps its high levels of vitamin E and potassium will. Vitamin E helps direct blood and oxygen to erogenous zones, and potassium is linked to the production of sex hormones. Have a mouthful and see what happens?

Try our recipe for Pickled Asparagus.

Chilies

Grilled oysters displayed with a cilantro topping on a wooden table.

When capsaicin, the chemical that makes peppers red-hot, puts a stunner on your tastebuds, your body releases adrenaline, which in turn calls up an endorphin response. With those stimulating, sexy juices running through the body…it could be midnight at the oasis at any hour of the day.

To kick up the spice level, indulge in our Grilled Oysters with Green Chile that includes another popular aphrodisiac.

Saffron

An overhead photo of a Lemon Saffron Tort in the upper left corner, three cream colored plates with slices of the tort with berries, and chocolate tarts at the bottom of the photo.

Ancient Mediterraneans were fascinated by saffron. The crocuses that bloomed early in the spring signaled a return of the Earth’s fertile season, and their bright golden stamens were infused into milk, wine, honey, and other foods. The deep yellow results were beautiful to look at, delicious, and possibly, according to modern science, helpful with infertility in men. Certain chemicals in saffron could embolden neurotransmitters that stimulate libido, which could explain why Cleopatra is said to have bathed in saffron prior to a visit to the boudoir.

Try pastry chef Selina Progar’s recipe for Lemon Saffron Tort and see what happens?

Walnuts

A loaf of coffee cake with rhubarb, apple, and walnut lays sliced on a green picnic table.

Rich in vitamins B1, B2, A, E and F, walnuts pack a powerful nutritional punch. Their concentration of zinc is said to help regulate testosterone levels in men. Part of their allure may have something to do with their frequent appearance in ancient desserts…and we know what happens after dessert.

We think impressing your loved one with a fresh loaf of Rhubarb, Apple, and Walnut Coffee Cake is a dessert worth baking for.

Honey

A clear mug with a Hot Honey Hot Toddy inside featuring a metal spoon, cinnamon stick, and lemon round.

Like figs, another legendary aphrodisiac, honey has high levels of boron, an element that helps women produce estrogen. It also increases levels of nitric oxide, a chemical that helps blood flow to the nether regions of both sexes. Ancient Greek medico Hippocrates may not have known about nitric oxide, but he did prescribe honey for a little extra vigor in the bedroom.

Honey, honey, keep the passion hot with a Hot Honey Hot Toddy that’s sure to warm you up both inside and out.

Coffee

Dirty Blondies with Chocolate, Hazelnut & Coffee - Decadent and chewy blondies loaded with chocolate chunks and toasted hazelnuts

Caffeine gets us going in the morning, and evidence suggests that, like chocolate, coffee increases stamina and can elevate dopamine levels. All of which means you might want to get your partner out on the dance floor and…dance?

Could we offer you Dirty Blondies with Chocolate, Hazelnut & Coffee that make it feel so good to be so bad?

Strawberries

Two tall glasses hold strawberry daiquiris, frozen and topped with strawberries and lime slices as more strawberry and lime slices lay on the table below.

When her handsome lover Adonis died in a hunting accident, Aphrodite’s tears mingled with his blood, and strawberries grew from the mixture. (Or was it anemones? Both versions are out there.) Does that story turn you on? Perhaps the vitamin C in strawberries will: it is essential in the production of sex hormones and libido-related chemical neurotransmitters. It also helps keep the immune system up to snuff…because no one is turned on by sniffling.

We couldn’t pick just one recipe, so have 20 strawberry recipes instead to create a feast as pretty as it is healthy.

Cherries

A Sour Cherry Crisp sits in a white dish with a crumble topping as a slice sits on a small white plate nearby.

The anthocyanins that make cherries red are also powerful antioxidants that reduce inflammation to promote overall health. Their sweet, complex, musky scent may have a pheromone effect. Their vitamin C content can help brighten the skin and eyes, as well. Which can’t hurt one’s efforts in the wooing and courting department.

It’s oozing with gooey, warm filling… we’re talking about the Sour Cherry Crisp of course! Prepare it with a scoop of ice cream on top for the ultimate finish.

Still craving more? Indulge in an Aphrodisiac Board for Two that includes many of the foods listed above and plenty of other ingredients to get you hot and bothered before the main course even hits! Or, check out our Ultimate Guide to Valentine’s Day to make all your partner’s fantasies come true.

Story by Keith Recker
Styling by Brittany Spinelli
Photography by Dave Bryce

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Rom-Com Cocktails and Movie Pairings for Spicing Up Your Valentine’s Day

By
Kylie Thomas
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0
In a tall glass sits a red Sweet Home Alabama Slammer garnished with a heart formed orange peel and surrounded by pink roses on the table.

Love them or loathe them, romantic comedies (rom-coms) just about rule Valentine’s Day. These stories of blossoming love and up-and-down relationships whisk us away to a fantasy world where the girl always seems to get the boy. Whether it’s the dreaminess of finding true romance or the consistency in a happy ending that keeps you watching these films, we’re sure you’re ready to binge all your favorites for the holiday.

If you’re planning a night in with a rom-com, consider mixing up a cocktail that’s made to accompany your watch party. These recipes take inspiration from well-loved rom-coms that have been watched for generations. Invite your partner, bestie, or even your mom to join you, and then double the recipes for sharing. After all, the spirit of Valentine’s Day is spending time with and being grateful for the ones you love, regardless of if you’re dating or not.

Rom-Com Cocktails for Spicing Up Your Valentine’s Day

Kat’s Love Poem Cocktail from 10 Things I Hate About You

A short cocktail glass has an orange cocktail inspired by 10 Things I Hate About You with a cinnamon sugar rim and edible marigold inside. On the table around the cocktail lays marigold petals and red rose petals.

Ah, the famous love poem that Kat’s character writes about Patrick sticks in our head each and every day. Who could forget the tense moment of build up when you realize she has truly fallen for the most unlikely pairing. Our Kat’s Love Poem Cocktail from 10 Things I Hate About You packs all that passion in a drinkable form. The fire of her words are in the form of a whiskey and orange juice cocktail with a few dashes of bitters and a cinnamon-sugar rim. 

Brooklyn Heights Cocktail Inspired by Moonstruck

A rocks glass with ice holds an orange Moonstruck cocktail with an orange slice garnish. The glass sits amongst rose petals on a cream table.

A variation on a Brooklyn Godfather seems just right for the dreamy Brooklyn Heights nights in the rom-com Moonstruck. Even if you’ve never had a Brooklyn Godfather before, take a leap much like Loretta and try this sweeter version with a hint of maraschino liqueur. With notes of amaretto, bourbon, and dry vermouth, you’ll taste the complexity of Loretta and Ronny’s relationship with every sip. 

Sweet Home Alabama Slammer

In a tall glass sits a red Sweet Home Alabama Slammer garnished with a heart formed orange peel and surrounded by pink roses on the table.

When you’re going back to your roots such as Melanie Carmichael, it doesn’t hurt to have a beverage in tow. After all, it could help you deal with the extra stress and drama. This Alabama Slammer in honor of Sweet Home Alabama uses a homey blend of Southern Comfort, amaretto, sloe gin, and orange juice. It’s a cocktail that transports you to Melanie’s rural hometown and stirs a heat much like the one Jake stirs in her. 

When Harry Met Sally Friends to Lovers Cocktail

A short glass holds a When Harry Met Sally inspired spritz with an orange peel and edible flower garnish as a champagne cork and rose petals scatter around the glass.

Friends to lovers: it’s a trope widely used in literature and movies alike for its tension and satisfaction when the two finally share a kiss. The rom-com When Harry Met Sally, is one of the finest examples of this pull between friendship and something more. To follow this unexpected progression of Harry and Sally, we’ve made a cocktail that combines Aperol, champagne-style cider, and bourbon to create a brand new elevated spritz.

Say Anything Boozy Orange Creamsicle Shake

An orange creamsicle shake with whipped cream, a cherry on top, and an orange wheel garnish from Say Anything on a white table with rose petals.

Who could forget the famous boombox scene from Say Anything? We sure can’t. Though, we happen to love the youthful romance between Diane and Lloyd as they meet in a 1950’s style dinner. In honor of this scene, we’ve made a shake that the two may share as adults returning to the diner. It’s sweet and creamy with an orange base plus a healthy dose of vodka and orange liqueur. Be sure to have two straws on deck to share with the one you love the most. 

Pretty Woman Pomegranate Cosmo

A red pomegranate cosmo as a Pretty Woman inspired drink sits in a tall martini glass with an edible rose floating on top and pomegranate seeds and an orange twist laying on the white table below.

Sultry, sensual, and beautiful, this Pretty Woman Pomegranate Cosmo captures Vivian and Edward’s underlying feelings for one another. It’s a bright, fresh cocktail with pomegranate juice, lime, Cointreau, and vodka. The deep red finish also reminds us of Vivian’s stunning gown and vibrant attitude. Think sophistication meets familiarity, something that this pair’s relationship seems to know much about. 

Heated Rivalry Hot Honey Hot Toddy

A clear mug with a Hot Honey Hot Toddy inside featuring a metal spoon, cinnamon stick, and lemon round.

A show that’s this spicy deserves a cocktail to match! We couldn’t have a rom-com list without featuring one of favorite newcomers, Heated Rivalry. This hot, hot, hot show follows two hockey stars through a budding romance and plenty of uh… “heated” scenes. Just be sure to keep a towel nearby in case of any “spills” if you get our drift (*wink wink*).

People We Meet on Vacation Tropical Mango Smoothie

Two tall glasses with stems hold Tropical Mango Smoothie with strawberries on the rim with little cocktail umbrellas in the strawberries.

Perfect for anyone looking for a non-alcoholic beverage on Valentine’s Day, a Tropical Mango Smoothie takes us away to the beaches in People We Meet on Vacation. This rom-com and friends-to-lovers tale started as a book by Emily Henry but its 2026 movie adaptation has quickly won over hearts thanks to the connection between actors Tom Blyth and Emily Bader.

Wuthering Heights Dark and Handsome

Two Dark and Handsome Rum Moscow Mules sit in front of a painted brown background with Tajin rims and a lime and orange sitting next to the glasses.

Whether you read the book in English class and immediately fell for Heathcliff or heard Kate Bush’s inspired-song and started itching for more, Wuthering Heights earns a spot in everyone’s life. Now in 2026 we finally get a movie adaptation releasing February 13. This version by Emerald Fennell (director of Saltburn) stars Jacob Elordi and Margot Robbie who perfectly convey the yearning of Catherine and Heathcliff’s tale. Plus its been said the two actors now cannot be without each other which gives us a pretty good sign we’ll be sobbing by the end of it.

Story by Kylie Thomas
Styling by Anna Franklin
Photography by Dave Bryce

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