Cooking a rotisserie chicken, or picking one up at the store, can last you a whole week as you create various meals around this ingredient. One of our favorite ways of using leftover rotisserie chicken is through a Chicken Taco Bar. It’s so easy to cook up your chicken with some spices and build yourself your dream taco high with cheese, sour cream, salsa, peppers, lettuce, onion, and of course, guac. We even provide you with a few ways of making your own salsa, guac, sauces, and topping at home to add a distinctive touch.
Can I Make a Taquito Bar Instead?
If you’d prefer taquitos over a Chicken Taco Bar, simply roll the cheese and chicken into a tortilla and fry in oil or in the air fryer for a few minutes on each side until golden brown. Be sure to turn the taquito halfway through cooking. Once done, top with queso, hot sauce, sour cream, and whatever else your heart desires. This style is not for hand-holding. Instead, they’re made for devouring messily on a plate.
Heat up the shredded rotisserie chicken in a frying pan with some oil.
Add in taco seasoning packet, garlic salt, and hot sauce to your liking. I recommend adding a little water to the pan to mix in the seasoning packet.
While chicken heats for about 5 minutes, heat up your taco shells or tortillas in the oven.
To make your taco bar a breeze, leave out small bowls of each topping above.
Looking for more ways to use leftover rotisserie chicken? Check out our article for leftover chicken recipes featuring stocks, casseroles, pastas, and more.
Recipe by Kylie Thomas Styling by Anna Franklin Photography by Dave Bryce
This High-Protein Chicken Salad is a lighter, smarter take on the classic lunch. We make this recipe creamy and tangy with Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. The final product packs in lean chicken, protein-abundant Greek yogurt, onion, celery, cucumber, and pumpkin seeds to deliver the same comforting flavor and satisfying texture without the heaviness. The best part is that we’re using leftover rotisserie chicken to make sure no food goes to waste.
Is Greek Yogurt Rich in Protein?
Greek yogurt is rich in protein, which is one of the main reasons it’s such a popular choice for healthy eating. Since it’s strained to remove much of the liquid whey, Greek yogurt has a thicker texture and a higher protein concentration than regular yogurt. A single serving typically has around 15–20 grams of protein. Overall, this protein helps support muscle repair, keeps you feeling fuller longer, and stabilizes your energy.
Skip the mayo and try this Greek yogurt dressing in your chicken salad instead.
Ingredients
Scale
For the dressing:
1/3 cup Greek yogurt
2 tsp curry Powder
1 tsp garlic, minced or finely grated
4 tbsp lemon juice, freshly squeezed
2 tsp agave
Salt & pepper, to taste
¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
For the chicken salad:
2 cups rotisserie chicken, shredded or cut into small cubes
¼ cup red onion, chopped
2 stalks of celery, sliced
1/2 english cucumber, diced small
1 tbsp pepitas, don’t mix-in, sprinkle on top
1/2 green apple cut into small pieces
1/8 cup golden raisins (optional)
Instructions
Mix all the dressing ingredients together until smooth.
Mix chicken, red onion, celery, cucumber, apple, and optional raisins into the dressing.
Top with pepitas seeds.
Enjoy with crackers, chips, or on its own!
Looking for more ways to use leftover rotisserie chicken? Check out our article for leftover chicken recipes featuring stocks, casseroles, pastas, and more.
Recipe by Stephanie Cravotta Styling by Anna Franklin Photography by Dave Bryce
From intimate collaborations and material experimentation to reflections on local history, Pittsburgh’s galleries and museums offer a rich slate of exhibitions to catch before winter gives way to spring. February 2026’s roundup highlights exhibitions where attention to scale, surface, as well as archive shapes the experience of looking.
Pittsburgh Art Exhibitions Hitting Galleries in February 2026
april april, 409 South Trenton Avenue, Regent Square Through February 28, 2026
In his first solo exhibition in Pittsburgh, Westberg rethinks still life and landscape as sites of perceptual drift, where familiar scenes hover at the edge of abstraction. Light, memory, and material sensation take precedence over depiction, treating painting as a temporary zone of engagement rather than a fixed record.
april april, 409 South Trenton Avenue, Regent Square Through February 28, 2026
Installed in the gallery’s Dining Room, Svoboda presents four closely related paintings built from strips of color that divide and then hold the surface. Using repetition and uniformity as a point of departure, the works reflect on allocation, storage, as well as value, allowing structure and material to quietly shape the experience of looking.
Westmoreland Museum of American Art, 221 N Main St, Greensburg January 22–June 14, 2026
Drawn from the collection of Bruce and Sheryl K. Wolf, Picturing Pittsburgh brings together works on paper that reflect on daily life during the city’s industrial era. The exhibition invites a quieter form of looking, where scenes of labor and infrastructure become sites of memory shaped by long-term collecting and also regional attachment.
Romance, 155 N Craig St, Suite 110, North Oakland January 24–March 8, 2026
Co-presented with Iowa (Brooklyn), vinaigrette unfolds across two cities in a call-and-response collaboration that treats exchange as both method and subject. Drawing on scent, play, and improvised systems of display, Miasnikova and Moniz translate personal archives into something shared.
Sasha Miasnikova, Commuter (detail), 2025. Oil and pencil on paper on panel, 36 x 27 in. Photo: Sam Judge
Concept Art Gallery (Upstairs Gallery), 1031 S Braddock Ave, Regent Square January 31–April 4, 2026
Found brings together artists whose practices work with found imagery as both material and metaphor, tracing subtle movements between searching and recognition. Across varied approaches, the exhibition frames “finding” not only as a method, but as an emotional state shaped by quiet discovery.
Concept Art Gallery (Annex Gallery), 1031 S Braddock Ave, Regent Square January 31–April 4, 2026
Working with appropriated imagery from early twentieth-century comic books, Lupo’s prints dwell on moments when bodies falter and meaning slips. What initially reads as slapstick gradually sharpens into a meditation on instability and the precariousness of control.
Bottom Feeder Books, 415 Gettysburg Street, Point Breeze January 31–February 28, 2026
Abramson’s hand-colored photographs from the 1980s explore the slippage between photographic record and painterly intervention. By layering pigment directly onto her photographs, the photographer slows the act of looking and foregrounds the image as something deliberately made rather than passively recorded.
Part of the 2026 Tomayko Solo Artist Elevation Series, Peregrination draws on Yan’s experience of migration to explore how identity and cultural memory shift over time. Reworking Chinese myth and folklore through craft, her work then imagines nature as a symbolic passage between past and present, grounding personal transformation in a dreamlike landscape.
Carnegie Mellon University 1st and 2nd Year MFA Exhibition SPACE February 13–April 5, 2026
Presented by the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust in collaboration with Carnegie Mellon University, Dream Sequence brings together new work by first- and second-year MFA students that unfolds according to the associative logic of dreams.
The Frick Pittsburgh, 7227 Reynolds Street, Point Breeze February 21–May 17, 2026
Drawn from a private collection, this exhibition brings together rare vintage photographs that trace Hine’s commitment to social reform through the camera. From Ellis Island to Pittsburgh’s steel mills, the works frame photography as a civic tool—shaped by Hine’s background in sociology as well as education—to confront the human costs of industrial modernity.
Story by Shawn Simmons Featured Photo Art Courtesy of Joseph Lupo, Chronic Uncertainty 3, 2025, silkscreen
Looking for a creative Valentine’s Day date night idea? It’s your lucky day because the city of Pittsburgh is ready to help you polish up your romantic side and make it shine. Head out for classic Valentine’s activities like attending live performances and sipping cocktails. Or, try something new this year like making a hand-poured candle of your favorite scent. No matter what you choose to do, the important thing is making sure your partner feels your love and appreciation.
Celebrate Love at These Valentine’s Day Events in Pittsburgh
Wine lovers and curious beginners alike can find solace in WSET-2 wine specialist Jill Kummer’s interactive tasting. Taste and learn why classic combinations like Dark Chocolate and Cabernet Sauvignon work, and discover surprising pairings with white chocolate, milk chocolate, as well as different intensities of dark chocolate.
This production of the classic two‑character play features a real‑life husband‑and‑wife team. Tammy Wyatt, a beloved local actress, joins Zach Wyatt, a retired CIA officer with a background in acting from SMU. Their unique chemistry brings a fresh, personal depth to Gurney’s story of lifelong correspondence and connection.
Celebrate Valentine’s a day early with a fun twist on game night. This VIP event kicks off with a savory buffet and drinks served by a special guest bartender. Then, Bingo kicks off after dinner for a chance to win cash prizes. But don’t worry if you don’t find yourself calling BINGO, there are also door prizes and a Best Dressed Couple award.
Work together with your partner to create a beautiful piece of glass art to take and adorn your home with. Help each other sculpt, blow, or fuse glass, each a two person job that needs your love to thrive. After you have your time in the glass blowing studio making a fused charcuterie plate or a heart-shaped paperweight, you’ll enjoy small bites alongside wine or beer.
Celebrate authentic expression in the Pittsburgh community. Join Girls Running Sh!t for an evening of open-mic performances, heartfelt spoken word, delicious food and drinks, and local vendors. Whether you’re sharing your own work or taking in others’ voices, this experience is about connection, vulnerability, and celebrating meaningful stories all in a welcoming atmosphere.
This adults-only evening offers a smart twist on romance, inviting singles, couples, and friends to explore the fascinating science behind love and attraction. Sip on Valentine’s Day-themed cocktails or mocktails while enjoying the Science Center’s captivating exhibits. Delve into the anatomy of pleasure, uncover the secrets of human connection, and even take part in a cooking demo to learn to make a dessert at home.
The historic Allegheny HYP Club opens its doors for a special after-dinner experience of dessert, drinks, and smooth jazz. Each couple will receive a personal dessert platter as well as two drink tickets for wine, beer, or champagne. All that’s left is to relax with the perfect soundtrack for the evening from The Jazz Trio.
This beloved Pittsburgh tradition offers a charming and festive evening for couples (and families too!). Enjoy a night of ice skating under the stars at either a family skate or adults-only skate session, capture memories with fun caricatures and a selfie booth, and indulge in light refreshments. Every couple receives a sweet treat of chocolates and flowers, plus automatic entry into a raffle with exciting prizes from local businesses.
Unleash your inner artist this Valentine’s Day at Art and Soul Studio. This evening invites both you and your lover to pick out a painting and create a masterpiece among the studio’s intimate atmosphere. Enjoy complimentary champagne and light snacks as you are guided through your painting. BYOB is also welcome for those who wish to personalize their experience.
Let a classical Valentine’s Day sweep you and your partner off your feet. This special performance by the Westmoreland Symphony Orchestra features Aaron Copland’s lively Rodeo, George Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue with acclaimed pianist Janice Carissa, and Symphony No. 2 by Randall Thompson.
Celebrate the love you share with your partner this Valentine’s Day with a relaxing and playful yoga class. Your professional guide takes you through gentle guided stretches, partner-assisted poses, and most important, quality time together. Sip some wine, learn simple massage techniques, and deepen your connection in a beginner friendly atmosphere.
If liqueur isn’t quite your thing, The PA Market has an opportunity to enjoy libations with your loved one. Together you’ll cozy up with your partner to indulge in a wine tasting with selections perfect for this loving holiday. You’ll even learn about different types of wines and how to correctly taste wine to keep the romance going long after the tasting.
When you think of a salad you probably transport yourself to a cooling lunch on a hot summer day. But, salads don’t belong exclusively to the warmer months. In fact, from December to March you’ll find citrus fruits at their peak. That means a whole range of flavorful, juicy, colorful additions to your salad. Plus, they work well with winter vegetables like beets and radicchio, which are readily available in the chilly season. Try our winter salad recipes! They’ll help you create a meal that’ll brighten your day and get you through even the coldest, darkest, snowiest parts of the next few months.
The mix of fresh grown citrus fruit and a homemade Basil Vinaigrette make this Citrus and Seed Salad a winter delight. The bright flavors in this salad will add a little sunshine to your plate and rescue you from the winter blues.
Radicchio — beautifully magenta, leafy, and cabbage-like — offers up a pleasing vegetal bitterness. Charring the radicchio takes down the bitterness a notch. That also introduces some smoky notes, and extends its virtues into lots of wintery options. You could try a small plate of charred radicchio or you could go a bit further with this Charred Radicchio Salad recipe.
The earthy, sweet-yet-tart zing of pickled beets and other cold weather vegetables like cauliflower is loved by many. For our Pickled Veggie Salad with Mustard Dressing, pick up some pickled beets and stone-ground mustard. Then plate up a healthy, beautifully flavorful winter salad with an infusion of vitamins and minerals.
In this COLDCO Bitter Greens Salad with Cranberry Vinaigrette, throw in your favorite salad toppings like freshly shaved parmesan cheese, roasted pepitas, and sliced citrus fruits. These elements, combined with the tangy notes from the vinaigrette, create a burst of flavor in your mouth perfect for the winter months.
Hand-picked beets are wonderful winter fare. They’re actually at their best late in the season, when they’ve had time to accumulate the natural sugars and earthy flavors. With this Roasted Beet Salad recipe, you can bring out all their flavors with a quick roasting session. Add drizzle of delicious French Vinaigrette for extra flair.
This Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad has it all. There’s health benefits and savory flavor from the brussels sprouts, a touch of sweetness from the cranberries, and a delightful homemade dressing to top it off. Sure to liven up any salad station!
After a quick trip to your local farmer’s market, use those fresh ingredients for our COLDCO Farm Winter Salad. This recipe is made special with bitter Italian greens, grated parmesan cheese, chopped hazelnuts, and a tangy vinaigrette that you’ll want every last drop of.
Part of what makes this salad so nutritious is the use of kale and purple radicchio as winter greens. But, it also fills your bowl with black-eyed peas, blood oranges, pecans, cornbread croutons, and a zesty orange citrus vinaigrette.
Though you won’t find any greens in this salad, the combination of winter citrus and vegetables is utterly scrumptious. Here you’ll plate beets, grapefruits, and clementines with an orange olive oil vinegar on top.
We’re taking all of our favorite winter greens and packing them into one big salad. Think black magic kale, arugula, various lettuces, fennel, onion, turnips, and Parisian carrots. Then, you’ll make a vinaigrette out of lemons, hemp seeds, dill, and other seasonings that elevate this recipe further.
Baby kale, artichoke hearts, and citrus are all ingredients that thrive in the colder seasons. In this salad, we’re marinading artichoke hearts in lemon juice and citrus zests that also help to create the dressing. It’s all served on a bed of baby kale, Brazil nuts, red onion, and olives.
Montreal is a city that effortlessly blends history, culture, and culinary excellence, making it a playground for food lovers, cocktail enthusiasts, and experience seekers alike. From vibrant neighborhoods bursting with cafés and fine dining to iconic parks as well as cultural landmarks, there’s an endless array of ways to explore the city. Whether you’re strolling through scenic green spaces, sampling local flavors at bustling markets, or enjoying expertly crafted drinks in historic settings, Montreal offers plenty of places that delight every sense. We highlight the top destinations to dine, drink, and immerse yourself so you can experience the best of the best.
Best Restaurants, Bars, and Experiences in Montreal
The Parisian charm of Ô Petit Paris in Plateau Mont-Royal stands out as one of Montreal’s top with its exceptional artisan breads and also beautifully crafted pastries. The bakery’s warm, welcoming atmosphere and consistently high-quality offerings make it a favorite for locals and visitors alike. Whether you’re stopping in for flaky croissants or perfectly baked baguettes, Ô Petit Paris delivers a taste of France that feels both refined and comfortingly familiar.
A soulful blend of Mediterranean-Italian cuisine and upscale café vibes is all housed in the historic Maison Alcan. Led by the same team behind Ristorante Béatrice, Améa’s menu offers everything from Roman-style pizzas and vibrant salads to hearty tartares. Their pastry selection is equally compelling, with freshly baked croissants, zeppoles, bombolones, and cookies inspired by classic Italian recipes. Plus, everything is crafted with seasonal, high-quality ingredients.
Refined French-style cuisine meets a deeply atmospheric, intimate setting. Behind a discreet entrance in a historic stone building, the restaurant’s cavernous rooms, leather armchairs, and warm lighting create a cozy, upscale-club feel. Under the guidance of Chef Claude Pelletier and Olivier Larocque, the menu features surf-and-turf dishes as well as seasonal creations made with top-tier ingredients. Not to mention, their wine cellar curated by Canada’s Best Sommelier 2023, Joris Garcia, offers over 500 selections.
Since 2007, Le Poir Penche has been serving French classics like steak-frites, duck confit, bouillabaisse, and generous seafood platters made with local ingredients. The restaurant’s chic yet relaxed vibe completes with a polished bar, a summer terrace, and even a private wine-cellar room. Head in for dinner to try standout dishes like whole grilled fish, truffled mashed potatoes, as well as a variety of seafood towers that elevate your dining experience.
Born from the vision of chefs David McMillan and Frédéric Morin, this restaurant pays homage to its namesake Charles “Joe Beef” McKiernan — a 19th-century tavern owner known for his generosity and larger-than-life persona. Inside, relax around cozy leather seating, vintage décor, and a menu scrawled on a chalkboard that changes daily depending on what is available. The cuisine is unapologetically rich with dishes like lobster spaghetti, roasted bone marrow, indulgent meats, and a raw bar.
Historic grandeur, refined cocktails, and lively energy make Bar George a must. Housed in the restored Le Mount Stephen mansion of Sir George Stephen, the bar’s richly paneled wood interiors, stained-glass features, and fireplaces create a glamorous, old-world ambiance. The bartending team, led by mixologist Nader Chabaane, curates a cocktail menu that honors classic tipples while weaving in modern twists. It’s a place where both history and hearty drink culture meet.
Art Deco charm and stunning architectural details will take your breath away in Bar Dominion. Under the creative direction of mixologist Andrew Whibley, their refined menu consists of martinis and negronis to highballs and sours. The atmosphere feels both luxurious and inviting, making it the perfect place for a sophisticated after-work drink, a pre-show cocktail, or a late-night gathering.
Café Olimpico in Old Montreal is a beloved spot for those who want a true taste of Italian-style espresso culture. Founded in 1970 by Rocco Furfaro and still family-run today, it’s known for its no-fuss coffee bar, warm community vibe, and rich history. With its classic house espresso blend, traditional Italian pastries like cannoli and biscotti, and a welcoming atmosphere full of soccer memorabilia, it feels more like a home than a café.
Treat yourself to a luxurious evening at Maison Boulud at the Ritz‑Carlton thanks to its refined and thoughtfully curated beverage program. The bar features a well‑curated wine list with private imports and wines by the glass, giving you both depth and flexibility. Their cocktail offerings are elegant and surprising — perfect for a sophisticated 5 à 7 in the hotel’s glamorous Palm Court lounge.
Terrasse William Gray easily ranks among the top places to drink in Montreal since it is erched on the 8th floor of the hotel. Its rooftop bar gives you sweeping views of Place Jacques‑Cartier, the St. Lawrence River, as well as the Montreal Ferris wheel. Not to mention, their drink menu is full of expertly crafted cocktails (both inventive and classic) alongside a curated wine list with private imports and premium vintages.
Take a walk through a peaceful, natural sanctuary right in the heart of the city, all while looking over stunning views with a rich history. Designed in 1876 by the same landscape architect behind New York’s Central Park, Frederick Law Olmsted, the park stretches across 200 hectares of forests, trails, and green space. Plus, the Kondiaronk lookout and its majestic Beaux-Arts Chalet provide one of the best panoramas of downtown Montreal and the St. Lawrence River.
A monumental topiary in the pond of Parc Jean Drapeau
This historic park offers over 25 km of multiuse trails for walking, biking, and winter sports. You can soak up nature or catch iconic skyline views along riverside walkways. Parc Jean‑Drapeau is also a beating heart of Montreal’s entertainment scene. It’s home to the Biosphère (the famous geodesic dome) that hosts major music festivals. Summer heat calls for a dip at Jean‑Doré Beach and the Olympic‑sized pool, while winter brings cross-country skiing, ice skating, and snowshoeing.
Architectural charm, local food culture, and a community vibe combine in this preserved Art Deco building from 1933. Atwater Public Market market borders the Lachine Canal which makes it a scenic stop for foodies, cyclists, and picnickers alike. Inside, you’ll find top-quality local produce, artisanal cheeses, baked goods, meats, and more. Then, in warmer months, the outside features a rotating roster of food stalls offering everything from barbecue to Vietnamese fare.
Home to the renowned Orchestre Symphonique de Montréal (OSM) and other ensembles, this theater’s 2,100‑seat “shoebox”-style design was created to deliver crystal‑clear, immersive sound. The hall also features the striking Grand Orgue Pierre‑Béique with 6,489 pipes — a stunning visual and sonic centerpiece. A concert here leaves you with memories you won’t soon forget.
This beautiful garden is one of the city’s top experiences for its serene beauty and cultural depth. Created through a partnership with Shanghai’s Parks Department, the garden’s buildings were shipped in ship‑loads from China and constructed by around 50 Chinese artisans. It reflects traditional Chinese landscape art with a delicate balance of plants, water, stones, and architecture — all keyed to the concept of yin and yang.
Whenever you’re craving chicken noodle soup but want to switch things up a bit, Chicken and Orzo Soup is there. With the use of leftover rotisserie chicken, you can easily turn these scraps into a pot of soup simmering with delicious herbs. We also take inspiration from Rachael Ray to make sure it’s simple to make but carries big flavor.
What is Orzo?
This noodle comes from a mix of durum wheat semolina flour and water. Whether it’s in soup or pasta dishes, orzo finds its place as an accompaniment with its small, long shape that’s almost like rice. You can use orzo almost as if it’s risotto, surrounding it with a broth that it can absorb the flavor of. In our Chicken and Orzo Soup, feel free to switch things up with other tiny pasta types like pastina or stelline that have small star shapes.
Deeply rich and flavorful soup adapted from Rachael Ray to feature rotisserie chicken.
Ingredients
Scale
4 cups chicken stock
2 cups water
2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
1.5 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
2 tbsp fresh thyme leaves, chopped
1 tbsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped
1 bay leaf
2 tbsp fresh garlic
1 onion, finely chopped
1 carrot, finely chopped
1 cup mushrooms, halved (cremini or button work well)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
⅔ cup orzo pasta
2 cups arugula, chopped
1 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
1 tsp grated lemon zest
1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or dill for garnish
Grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, for topping
Instructions
First, you’ll want to combine the chicken stock and water in a medium pot. Bring these two to a gentle simmer as you continue with the recipe.
Using a large soup pot, add in the extra-virgin olive oil and heat it over a medium-high heat. Stir in the chicken, thyme, rosemary, bay leaf, garlic, onion, carrot, and mushrooms. Add salt and pepper as you like then cook covered for 6-7 minutes or until the vegetables are softened.
Next, pour your stock from earlier into the large pot and bring everything to a boil. At this point, you can add the orzo past and cook by your instructions, usually around 8 minutes while stirring occasionally.
After the orzo is cooked, you can remove the pot from the heat and then stir in the arugula and basil. To finish things off, add the lemon zest and discard the bay leaf.
To enjoy, we recommend a sprinkle of Parmigiano-Reggiano, parsley, and dill on top.
Looking for more ways to use leftover rotisserie chicken? Check out our article for leftover chicken recipes featuring stocks, casseroles, pastas, and more.
Recipe by Mark Chutko, Adapted from Rachael Ray Photo Courtesy of You Le
New Italian Restaurant Cork & Crust Opens in The Oaklander Hotel
Opening on Monday, January 26, Cork & Crust is your introduction to authentic Italian food with a Pittsburgh twist. First, you experience the welcoming, industrial style, low-lit dining area and bar that represents the heart of the steel industry perfectly. Once you’re seated, the painstaking preparation of each dish and meticulous attention to the smallest details means any menu choice you extends that first impression into a great experience.
Meet Chef Kristin Butterworth of Cork & Crust
Chef Kristin Butterworth is known for her work turning Nemacolin‘s Lautrec into a Forbes Five-Star and AAA Five-Diamond level. This three-time James Beard Award semifinalist also has experience as the Executive Sous Chef at the Forbes Five-Star Sea Island Resort on Georgia’s southern coast.
She brings this background into Cork & Crust’s extensive menu and specialty bar program.
Feeling Thirsty?
At the center of the bar offerings is a curated wine list rooted in Italian tradition, featuring both classic reds and aromatic whites sourced from quality vintners in Europe and California. Let the staff lead you in exploring a range of options to pair with pizza, pasta, and small plates alike. The wine selection is complemented by artisan cocktails and plus rotating local and regional beers.
When we ventured into Cork & Crust, the Piccante Spritz caught our eye. It layers aperol, prosecco, and pink pepper corn-infused agave. It’s a trip to the Amalfi coast of Italy without the expensive plane ticket.
If you’re opting out of the alcohol though, an Italian soda is a must. Personally, we recommend the White Peach. It’s just sweet enough, with a simple flavor that goes well with any dish. There are also apple and orange versions.
Spicy Roasted Castelvetrano Olives
Exploring the Food Menu
At the heart of the food menu are Neapolitan-inspired wood-fired pizzas, crafted with an artisan touch and bold flavor profiles. Each recipe honors classic Italian techniques but also add fun and creative twists.
Spicy Pepperoni Pizza with candied jalapeño
We tried a Spicy Pepperoni pizza that coats a thin crust with tomato sauce, mozzarella, crunchy pepperonis, hot honey, basil, and candied jalapeños for a bit of sweetness. Every pizza also comes with little dishes of smoked sea salt, chili crisp, and parmesan cheese for sprinkling on top, as well as a bottle of signature house-made hot sauce. This allows you to venture into combinations that take this pizza further than you could imagine.
Spicy Pepperoni Pizza
Guests can also explore a variety of elevated small plates that are encouraged to be shared amongst the table. We personally split the Cauliflower Pitt-catta which comes in a dreamy swirl of basil pesto and lemon-caper butter. But there’s also short rib and chicken milanese to try.
Cauliflower Pitt-catta
In addition to pizza, another main attraction at Cork & Crust is the pasta. Each dish reflects traditional preparation with attention to texture and sauce balance, complementing the wine-forward beverage list. The Yinzer “Ravioli” is a must for any Pittsburgher. Don’t let the name fool you, these are some of the most luxurious pierogis you’ll ever have. Featuring a potato filling, they rest on a bed of cracked black pepper cream with toppings of parmesan, charred pearl onions, and chive. A dash of the aforementioned hot sauce is a nice add-on.
Yinzer “Ravioli”
What’s for Dessert?
Then, at the end of it all, comes dessert. Chef Kristin is also the brains behind the decadent sweets on the menu. TRUST US: you’ll want to save room. Our table enjoyed to both the Chocolate Panna Cotta and Lemon Tiramisu.
Chocolate Panna Cotta
For those with a sweet tooth, the Chocolate Panna Cotta embeds a silky butterscotch filling inside a milky creamy chocolate accompanied by a pistachio biscotti leaf, whipped mascarpone, and brown butter powder on top.
Even those who aren’t a fan of sweets can find solace and satisfaction in the Lemon Tiramisu. Limoncello is the star of the show here as it soaks the ladyfinger cookies at the desserts’ base and intertwines with a lemon mascarpone. The candied lemon and powdered sugar topping are a sure sign of deliciousness ahead. It’s smooth, creamy, and loaded with just the right amount of tart citrus. One of our group decided he would have to come back every day for a dose of mood-lifting deliciousness.
Lemon Tiramisu
Make a reservation quickly! Cork & Crust is a comfortable, approachable, and excellent new spot on the dining scene. Get ready to relax into Chef Kristin’s heartwarming food.
While you wait for your reservation, try one of Chef Kristin Butterworth’s TABLE Magazine recipes for Asparagus Ravioli.
As temperatures drop to freezing and below, there’s nothing quite like making a warm, comfort food recipe that reminds you of home. Whether you’re craving hearty soups, scrumptious pizza, cozy dinners, or indulgent desserts, there are plenty of abundant ingredients to satisfy your cravings. Explore our collection of recipes that will keep smiles on your family’s faces throughout the season, even as snow coats the ground.
Comfort Food and 2026 Food Trends
As 2026 kicks into gear, there are rising tensions in just about every part of the world. Whether it’s in your own life or something the whole country is facing, concern and stress stay in our bodies, leaving us unrested and frustrated. While prices continue to rise and political leaders divulge into larger fights, you need a way to relax and discover a safe space in the food you eat. Comfort food can be a way to experience nostalgia and remind you of the good in life. The warm temperature and flavors that are familiar are everything to a stressed brain and body. This year, comfort food is more crucial than ever.
An essential comfort food, Mac and Cheese is a dish loved by all ages. This classically baked version ensures a crispy, cheesy crust with a gooey, warm inside. The best part is the short ingredient list means you probably have most of the basics already in your pantry and fridge.
A red, meaty ragù sauce is just the thing you need on a cold, gloomy day. This Stanley Tucci Inspired Tagliatelle al Ragù will take you back to Sundays at grandma’s house. If you want the ultimate comfort meal, serve it with a soup or salad and fresh baked loaf of bread.
A casserole reminds us of family. It takes us back to gatherings with aunts, uncles, cousins, and so many others. Take yourself to that happy place with our Green Chile Chicken Enchilada Casserole. It’s got a bit of a kick from the green chile with layers of cheese, chicken, tortilla pieces, onion, and a delicious broth.
Who doesn’t love a bowl of chili when they’re in need of something comforting? Even better than your regular chili recipe, this one is made with Wendy’s chili in mind. It’s got chunks of peppers, plenty of beans, ground beef, and stewed tomatoes with green chilies. You can also get creative with your toppings though we opt for sour cream, cheese, and scallions.
Making this Beer Brat Stew in advance means you can come home from a hard day and immediately find comfort in a bowl. Fingerling potatoes and beer brats soak in a bath of stout-infused stew. It’s hearty and great alongside a slice of country bread.
Looking for a recipe that doesn’t require too much prep? These Pumpkin Pancakes are a breakfast, lunch, or dinner option thanks to pumpkin puree and an apple compote. You’ll be taken back to your childhood when a stack of pancakes on your plate was one of the best meals.
We’re elevating the Southern comfort of Chicken and Dumplings with butternut and acorn squash. These two additions add a little sweetness to this bowl full of farm-fresh ingredients. Plus, learning to make dumplings from scratch comes in handy for other recipes too like soups.
You cannot indulge in comfort food without having a Homemade Tomato Soup next to your favorite type of grilled cheese. For this soup recipe you can use canned tomatoes for ease or make use of tomatoes from your garden. Either way, the creamy, savory broth will have you licking the bowl completely clean.
The cushiony dough and warm filling of a pierogi makes it undeniably a comfort food. These Carrot Pierogis use a veggie and ground pork filling that’s full of flavors like garlic, ginger, and soy.
You could order a pizza out… or you could customize your own Pesto Veggie Flatbread Pizza at home. By utilizing ready-to-use ingredients like store bought pesto, a flavored olive oil, and premade flatbreads, this recipe is a breeze and visually stunning.
If you’re choosing a burger for lunch or dinner then you might as well go all-out with it. This Hawaiian Burger starts with a perfectly cooked patty then piles it high with bacon, tomato lettuce, your choice of cheese, as well as a homemade pineapple and red onion jam.
Looking for a comfort meal that’s elegant too? Making Orecchiette Pasta from scratch takes some patience but is well worth the result. In this recipe, we’re mixing this pasta with a sauce made from foraged mushrooms, pork, vegetables, and cream.
If you’re craving a pasta dish that’s more on the classic side, this Stanley Tucci Inspired Pasta alla Norma is for you. Here we pull together lightly fried eggplant and rigatoni pasta in a simple red sauce. Serve with cheese on top and bread for sopping up the sauce.
Mashed potatoes are the holy grail of comfort foods. In order to warm your body at the same time, we’ve made Green Chile and Cheddar Mashed Potatoes that add a kick of heat. The Hatch green chiles and red chiles creates a spicy base but the cheddar and creamy potatoes cool things down. Plus, you can check out our Celebrity Mashed Potato Taste Test to find out what the all-time best recipe is.
Everyone needs a dessert for the best way to end a comfort meal. Our Mocha Chocolate Brownies take cocoa to the extreme with an espresso-chocolate frosting on top. Nothing calms the soul quite like a dose of chocolate.
Possibly one of the most loved desserts, Chocolate Chip Cookies are a snack for anytime. When you’re sad, bite into these gooey rounds of rich chocolate. When you’re happy, bake up a tray to put a smile on those around you.
Whether it’s served on its own or à la mode with a scoop of ice cream on top, a slice of Apple Pie is like a warm hug. This recipe will teach you to make your own flakey crust and includes a crunchy sugar topping.
Stanley Tucci, the captivating actor known for his award-winning performances in films like The Devil Wears Prada and The Hunger Games, harbors a passion that extends far beyond the silver screen: food. More than just a casual foodie, Tucci has emerged as a culinary enthusiast, captivating audiences with his television program, Searching for Italy and his cookbook The Tucci Cookbook. Get ready to explore a collection of dishes that are not only delicious but are influenced by the warmth and personality of this beloved actor. Seasoned cooks and beginners alike will love these Tucci inspired, approachable recipes that offer a delightful invitation to explore the world of Italian flavors. So, grab your apron, fire up the stove, and get ready to embark on a delicious adventure with Stanley Tucci!
Every good pasta dish starts with a flavorful and savory sauce. This Maria Rosa Tomato Sauce is the perfect base to any pasta shape your heart desires. It’s robust with large, fresh tomatoes, spices, herbs, and other veggies. Plus, it’s similar to the one Tucci makes in episode one of Searching for Italy.
Simple but invigorating, this Pasta alla Norma is a great recipe to have in your back pocket. Rigatoni pasta is matched with lightly fried eggplant for a contrast of textures. Finish it off with a homemade red sauce using olive oil, garlic, tomatoes, oregano, and basil.
Cacio e Pepe quite literally means cheese and black pepper. They’re the main staples of this pasta dish alongside lemon zest, arugula, and a helping of olive oil. Though if you want to stick to this dish’s Roman roots, you can leave out of lemon zest and arugula for a more traditional approach.
When you need to whip together a meal quickly, let Penne all’ Arrabbiata be your guide. It does have a bit of heat due to the chili oil we include, but you can easily leave it out if you’re not a fan of spice. This eight ingredient dish combines a sauce made from scratch and al dente penne.
If you’re a fan of risotto and also happen to enjoy the umami, earthy flavor of mushrooms, this recipe is going to be your own little slice of heaven. Your basic risotto is getting an upgrade with threads of saffron, white wine, and dried porcini mushrooms. How could one say no to such a cozy and comforting dinner?
Guanciale is the key ingredient to making this Bucatini all’Amatriciana so special and delicious. This cured pork cheek adds a smoky and crispy element to an already mouth watering dish. Though if you don’t have guanciale available you can always substitute it for bacon or pancetta to get a similar result.
In Tucci’s series, he notes that for a true Carbonara guanciale, pork jowl, is the most important element to showcase. It adds a rich, salty flavor to this creamy sauce. Since this recipe uses only six ingredients, we recommend buying of a high quality to ensure the best dish possible.
Get your dose of delicious, crunchy zucchini with our Spaghetti alla Nerano. Instead of a red sauce, you’ll find a dose of cheesy garlic butter that compliments the zucchini. It’s a little different from your basic penne and sauce without going too far away from tradition.
Ragù sauce is a thick, red sauce that uses beef chunks and a savory red wine for a rich, irreplaceable taste. In this dish, it’s added to tagliatelle pasta which are thick, flat, ribbon-like noodles made from eggs. Needless to say, between these two elements you’re sure to leave the dinner table feeling satisfied.
Remember that Maria Rosa Sauce that’s mentioned earlier in this article? Well it just got even better when we toss in Italian sausage, rigatoni, and a Calabrian chili sauce for a bit of heat. It’s a little bit of tradition and a little bit of modernity all in one.
Yet again our Maria Rosa Inspired Sauce sets your plate up for success in our Cannellini Beans and Greens. You may know Cannellini beans better as white kidney beans. Packed full of protein, these beans combine with Lacinto kale to create a recipe that’s healthy but still fulfilling. We recommend serving this recipe alongside crusty bread for dipping in that irresistible sauce.
No meal could be complete without a martini from the man himself. Tucci shared this recipe in Food Network’s Be My Guest, Season 3, Episode 2 featuring host Ina Garten. Try his dry Gin Martini for yourself alongside any of the pasta dishes above for a truly Stanley Tucci evening.
After all your hard work, you deserve to indulge in a dessert that Tucci fawns over in the Amalfi coast. This citrus-infused cake is refreshing and light after a hearty meal of pasta. Not to mention it gives you a chance to use that limoncello that has been hanging around the house.
