Stanley Tucci Inspired Pasta Recipes

January 22, 2026

A Stanley-Tucci inspired plate of Tagliatelle al ragu

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!

Stanley Tucci Inspired Pasta Recipes

Maria Rosa Tomato Sauce

A plate of bright red tomato sauce on a verdant green background

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.

Stanley Tucci Inspired Pasta alla Norma

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

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.

Stanley Tucci Inspired Penne all’ Arrabbiata

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.

Risotto Milanese with Porcini Mushrooms

A plate of risotto milanese on a green background

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?

Stanley Tucci Inspired Bucatini all’Amatriciana

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.

Spaghetti Alla Carbonara

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.

Stanley Tucci Inspired Spaghetti alla Nerano

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.

Tagliatelle al Ragù Recipe

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.

Rigatoni with Salsiccia alla Maria Rosa

A plate of rigatoni with tomato sauce, inspired by Stanley Tucci

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.

Cannellini Beans and Greens alla Maria Rosa

A Stanley Tucci inspired beans and greens recipe on a bright green background

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.

Stanley Tucci’s Martini

A martini sits beside two green bottles of dry gin.

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.

Delizia Al Limone Layer Cake

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.

Story by Kylie Thomas

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How to Watch This Year’s Oscar Nominees

Kylie Thomas

January 22, 2026

The actor in Sinners the movie sings in a barn.

35 features received nods for the 98th Academy Awards, and 33 of the Oscar nominees can be watched now (or soon) either in theaters or via streaming services.

Where to Watch 2026’s Oscar Nominees

While a few films are running ahead of the pack — if you haven’t, you should probably get to Sinners and One Battle After Another as soon as possible — Oscar completists have a lot to watch between now and the big night.

A total of 35 feature films received nods when the nominees for the 98th Academy Awards were revealed this morning (January 22) as well as 15 short films. The morning contained a record-breaking tally: Sinners earned an impressive 16 nominations, claiming the record for most nods received by a single film. (Previously, a trio of films were in a three-way tie with 14 nominations apiece: All About Eve, Titanic, and La La Land.)

One Battle After Another came in second with 13 nominations; Frankenstein, Hamnet, and Marty Supreme earned nine apiece. All five of those leaders are on the Best Picture list, alongside Bugonia, F1, The Secret Agent, Sentimental Value, and Train Dreams.

Looking to Watch Them All?

Those seeking to complete the fabled Oscars Death Race (seeing each and every nominated feature and short before Oscar night) have a tall order ahead, even in terms of simple logistics: The nominees are spread across theatrical screenings, streaming services and digital on-demand platforms, with some yet to see wide availability in the United States.

For cineastes looking to catch up without the pressure of seeing all 35 features, though, there are plenty of options … for all but two films, as surprise Best Original Song nominee Viva Verdi! and Best Documentary nominee Cutting Through Rocks are currently unavailable outside of film festivals.

Here’s our rundown of where to watch the nominated films, at least as of this writing; check updated lists on your favorite streaming services at the end of the month, and keep a close eye on showtimes near you for in-theater showings (which, of course, is the best way to watch).

Currently In Theaters

Arco, Avatar: Fire and Ash, Hamnet, Marty Supreme, The Secret Agent, Song Sung Blue, Zootopia 2

Streaming on Netflix

Frankenstein, KPop Demon Hunters, The Perfect Neighbor, Train Dreams

Streaming on Max

The Alabama Solution, One Battle After Another, Sinners, Weapons

Story by Sean Collier
Sinners Photo Courtesy of Warner Bros. Pictures

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Pittsburgh Chef and Restaurant Named 2026 James Beard Award Semifinalists

Kylie Thomas

January 21, 2026

A purple plate of pierogis covered in shreds of rainbow carrots.

Pittsburgh’s culinary scene is once again in the national spotlight as local chefs and restaurants earn recognition as James Beard Award semifinalists for 2026, one of the most prestigious honors in the American food world. This year, Chef Jamilka Borges of Shadyside’s Lilith is a semifinalist in the Best Chef: Mid-Atlantic category for her distinctive blend of Puerto Rican and Sicilian-inspired cuisine. Apteka in Bloomfield also secured a spot in the Outstanding Wine and Other Beverages Program category, showcasing their approach to food and drink. These accolades from the James Beard Foundation highlight Pittsburgh’s growing influence on the national scale and honor the creativity and skill that’s right in our own city.

Pittsburgh’s Chef Jamilka Borges of Lilith and Restaurant Apteka Named 2026 James Beard Award Semifinalists

What is the James Beard Award?

A program of the James Beard Foundation, the James Beard Awards are like the Oscars of food. These awards recognize exceptional talent and achievement in restaurants, food media, and hospitality across the United States. Judges look for culinary excellence and consistency, including skill, technique, and a strong point of view in what they are creating. Commitments to sustainability, ethical sourcing, inclusivity, and positive workplace practices, can also play a role.

Chef Jamilka Borges sits at a table with a glass of wine in front of her. — Chef Jamilka Borges | Photo by Tom O’Connor

Chef Jamilka Borges for Best Chef: Mid-Atlantic

Tucked away off the main streets of Shadyside sits the intimate restaurant Lilith. It’s the creation of Chef Jamilka Borges and Chef Dianne DeStefano and it centers around thoughtful cuisine blending multiple cultures. Chef Borges grew up in San Juan, Puerto Rico and it’s a huge influence on everything she makes. Her dishes combine influences from different parts of the world to present you quite often with something you’ve never tasted before. Chef DeStefano brings Sicilian heritage to the restaurant’s “coastal cuisine” point of view.

At Lilith you’ll find a farm-to-table, handcrafted attitude. This means all their stocks, sauces, breads, and pastries are made in-house daily. The quality comes across instantly as her food wraps its arms around you and embraces you in a warm hug. But, in everything Chef Borges does, you’ll find a deep connection to the Pittsburgh community. For her, embracing locality isn’t just a state of mind, it’s a lifestyle.

Try Chef Jamilka Borges’ recipe for Rainbow Carrot Pierogis to get a taste of her genius.

Kate Lasky and Tomasz Skowronski of Apteka | Photo by Laura Petrilla

Apteka for Outstanding Wine and Other Beverages Program

This Bloomfield restaurant and natural wine boutique has built a reputation in Pittsburgh for its thoughtful, adventurous beverage offerings that go perfectly with its all-vegan, Eastern and Central European menu. Apteka’s beverage program is not your average list of wines at a restaurant. Instead, it stands out for its carefully curated selection of natural, organic, and biodynamic wines, many of which highlight minimal-intervention winemaking and emphasize the importance of regional character. Often, the wines come from very small scale growers and vintners you are unlikely to see on other wine menus in the United States. They pair these wines with house-made cordials, fermented drinks, and other nonalcoholic options that celebrate craft and tradition.

The James Beard Award semifinalist designation reflects Apteka’s dedication to hospitality, education, and a unique beverage experience. In fact, this isn’t their first rodeo in James Beard nominations. Co-owners and Chefs Kate Lasky and Tomasz Skowronski have been contenders in the Best Chef: Mid-Atlantic category, year after year. They advanced to the finalist round in 2023.

Learn more about these two and how they’ve influenced the culinary landscape in our article on rising chefs.

All finalists for the James Beard Award 2026 will be announced on March 31.

Story by Kylie Thomas

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Cocktail Shake-Off 2026, A Festival of Local Libations

staff-author

January 21, 2026

TABLE Magazine to host Pittsburgh’s Top Bartenders in a competition for the Best Cocktail Recipe!

Twelve bartending teams from Pittsburgh’s top establishments will participate in a competition where YOU are the judge. Each team will be assigned a spirit provided by one of 12 participating local distilleries to build a cocktail worthy of your vote for Best Cocktail Recipe.

Join us as we raise our glasses to passionate mixologists who will unleash their creativity to bring their vision to life in every shaken, stirred, and garnished cocktail. Selecta will be spinning the hottest beats, bringing the party vibes to life.

Date: Thursday, February 5, 2026
Time: 6:30-9:30pm
VIP Entry: 6:30pm
General Entry: 7pm
Location: ROOST Pittsburgh
250 Forbes Ave Suite 201
Downtown Pittsburgh
Tickets: General Admission $75, VIP $130 – Purchase tickets here!

VIP Experience

Your VIP Experience includes early entry into the VIP Lounge, where you will enjoy heavy hors d’oeuvres, a welcome drink, and more!

Participating Bar Teams

The Warren Bar & Burrow
Spirits & Tales at The Oaklander
Monterey Bay Fish Grotto
Bar Marco
Lo Bar Cocktail Services
Scratch & Co.
Palm Palm
Pizzaiolo Primo
Revel
Space Bar
The Commoner
Rival

Want to experience some tasty cocktails now? Why not try mixing up one of our curated cocktail recipes?

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5 Valentine’s Day Hotel Packages in Pittsburgh

Kylie Thomas

January 20, 2026

Why spend Valentine’s Day in the same bedroom where you spend every other night? Take this holiday as an opportunity to go all out and try something new. Valentine’s Day hotel packages are ready to sweep you off your feet for the evening. Many of these offers feature aphrodisiacs like chocolates, cheese, and champagne, which will be waiting for you in the room to get your celebration started. With the path to romance smoothed out on your behalf…the night awaits!

Valentine’s Day Hotel Packages

Fairmont Pittsburgh

Delight in the Grand Romance Package by the Fairmont, located in Downtown’s Cultural District. After you take in a show at the Benedum Center, check into your room with valet service plus a bottle of champagne and chocolates waiting for you on the pillow.

Nemacolin

Celebrate Valentine’s Day away from home this year with a day carefully curated staycation by Nemacolin. Order flowers, pastries, charcuterie, or a special wine to be delivered to your room. Then, indulge in a special dinner menu before finding bliss together at the Woodlands Spa with a couples escape. Plus, you can explore other amenities like indoor golf or the year-round outdoor hot tub.

Omni William Penn Hotel

The From Omni, With Love package at the Omni William Penn Hotel adds a little extra elegance to their already exquisite hospitality experience. Sip a bottle of sparkling wine paired with a sweet chocolate treat and a $50 date night credit. Linger a while with late check-out. Explore more treats specially arranged by the concierge. Plus, if you bring your pup along you can get them a festive bandana, pink pup-cup, and a Valentine’s treat upon arrival too.

Priory Hotel

Looking for the whole sha-bang? You can book the Dinner Date Night at the historic Priory Hotel on the North Shore. It includes either a stay for two in one of our stylish guest rooms, a bottle of chilled wine waiting in your room, a $75 dinner voucher to one of Pittsburgh’s best restaurants with Uber transportation, and complimentary grab and go breakfast the next day.

Mansions on Fifth

Make an unforgettable memory this Valentine’s Day with a stay at luxurious Mansions on Fifth. Their Romance, Romance Package gets you an overnight stay with an arrangement of a dozen roses, champagne or wine, and a snack plate ready upon your arrival. Finish the stay with breakfast delivered to your room the next morning for a truly relaxed and magical experience.

Plus, check out our Ultimate Guide to Valentine’s Day to ensure your holiday is the best it can be, even if you’re just staying at home.

Story by Kylie Thomas
Photo courtesy of Nemacolin

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Your Ultimate Guide to Valentine’s Day

Kylie Thomas

January 20, 2026

Valentine’s Day is just around the corner and you know what that means! You better have all your dinner reservations in place, presents bought and wrapped, and the dream date planned out. Let’s be honest though: chances are you’re probably running a little behind on that checklist. Don’t worry, we’re here to make sure your Valentine’s Day goes off without a hitch. Whether you’re spending the day with your husband, wife, partner, family, or friends, there’s plenty to do to celebrate this day of love. Here’s everything you need to make the perfect day, from cocktails and gifts to the romantic dinner. You’ll be more than prepared.

Your Ultimate Guide to Valentine’s Day

Do Men Outspend Women on Valentine’s Day Gifts?

A rose on top of a light brown card for Valentine's Day

Yes, it’s true! Men really do outspend women on Valentine’s Day. It’s the only holiday where men go all-out to ensure only the best for their beloved. Check out our article to learn all about how this can be from shopkeepers and researchers alike.

Romantic Dinner Recipes for Valentine’s Day

a black table with a round metal pan with clams, scallops, crab legs, lobster, and shrimp

Nothing says “I love you” like a homemade dinner, cooked from scratch. Instead of spending tons of money on a night out, stay in this Valentine’s Day and surprise your date with an extravagant meal made with your own hands. Many of our recipes use simple steps which help you all along the way, so even if you’re a beginner-level chef, we have the perfect recipe for you.

Pick Up a Bottle From These Pittsburgh Distilleries

Two bottles from Maggie's Farm Distillery in Pittsburgh sit on a table beside a tall cocktail.

When you go to mix up a Valentine’s Day cocktail this year, don’t skimp out on the cheap stuff. Instead, head to a Pittsburgh distillery that crafts their liquor with the utmost care. Spirits like gin, whiskey, or vodka meet creative makers who master recipes and even infuse their bottles with specialty flavors. You’ll notice the difference in texture and flavor as you support local and add a shot to your evening.

Valentine’s Day Cocktails and Mocktails

Two small cocktail classes hold a valentine's day cocktail in a red color with a foam on top and edible flowers as a garnish.

This year, instead of turning to a bottle of wine, spice things up with complex, flavorful cocktail and mocktail creations. Not only are the results delicious, you’ll have some bonding time in the kitchen while you shake up these sensual sips.

11 Romantic Wines for a Sensual, Decadent Valentine’s Day

A romantic glass of sparkling rosé wine on a black background

But, if your lover is attached to their wine, shop for a special bottle that makes the day more romantic. Whether you prefer reds, whites, or rosés, we have options that show you care and leave your evening with a relaxing atmosphere.

Aphrodisiac Board for Two

An aphrodisiac board for 2 with several aphrodisiac ingredients like, berries, nuts, cheese, honey, oyster shooters and pickled asparagus on a black counter in a black kitchen with two glasses of champagne, a champagne bottle, and a dish of oysters on the half shell in the background.

If the sensuality of Valentine’s Day doesn’t get you in the mood then our Aphrodisiac Board for Two sure will. Our board is made up of all the ingredients that boost your sexual health and add a bit of romance to any date night. From Pickled Asparagus to Oyster Shooters, who knows if you’ll even make it to the main course.

Aphrodisiac Foods for Love

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.

In case the above does not satisfy your intimate cravings, maybe a couple more choices for aphrodisiacs will. Infuse these delights into your dinner, cocktails, or even dessert to make sure your love shows. Plus, some of these ingredients burst with color making everything a little brighter on Valentine’s Day.

Valentine’s Day Hotel Packages

Spice up Valentine’s Day with a lovely staycation! Valentine’s Day hotel packages are ready to sweep you off your feet for the evening and take care of all the hard work for you with top-notch room service. Take this holiday as an opportunity to go all out and try something new.

The Finest Chocolatiers in Pittsburgh

A table full of various small chocolates in different shapes.

If you want to get your loved one a box of chocolates for Valentine’s Day, we recommend you go all-out and visit a Pittsburgh chocolatier. From creamy milk chocolate to more bitter dark and even subtle white, these chocolatiers fill their shops with an assortment of confections. Look for fun shapes, decadent truffles, pretzel clusters, and so much more.

Chocolate Tarts Recipe

An overhead photograph of chocolate tarts and individual chocolates on a textured white surface with white sprinkles and lavender.

What could be better for dessert than a decadent, chocolate heaven of a tart. A smooth chocolate filling and ganache topping flow over a crumbly crust. We recommend using local chocolate if you are able to, it makes all the difference.

CBD Valentine’s Day Candies and Chocolates

Finish off the best Valentine’s Day ever with special candies and chocolates for your darling. These CBD recipes will help take away any stresses and allow for the rest of your evening to be a relaxing one. Just pop a chocolate in your mouth and cuddle up to a rom-com on the couch.

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

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.

Staying at home this year? If you’re alone or even if you have a girlfriend or two over, you should shake up a passionate cocktail to match your favorite rom-com. We’ve collected all your favorites like Say Anything then craft each a recipe that embodies the movie such as a Boozy Orange Creamsicle Shake.

Story by Kylie Thomas

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Your Recipe Guide to Dietary Health in 2026

Kylie Thomas

January 20, 2026

Mottahedeh's Tobacco Leaf Dinnerware: Prawn and Noodle Lettuce Wrap Dish

Dieting can be hard. Whatever the reason for restricting your diet, it’s not easy to form your world around a specific set of ingredients. But we’re here to show you that following a diet, whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, flexitarian, or keto, can be easy and delicious too. All you need is the right guide. We’ve made breakfast, lunch, dinner, and even dessert just a click away for all types of diets. Each recipe encourages you to fill your table with nutritious foods that aren’t too out of reach either. So, feel free to start your dieting journey in 2026 with a helping hand. It’ll make your ease into your new lifestyle that much simpler.

Foster Your Dietary Health with These Recipe Guides

10 Vegetarian and Vegan Recipes for Meatless Monday

If you’re looking for somewhere to start with dieting but you’re worried about making big changes, start small with meatless Monday. Meatless Monday is all about switching out of the norm consistently till it’s second nature. Dive into Roasted Squash Tacos with Sriracha Mayonnaise, Cauliflower Steaks with Curry Leaf Oil and Red Wine Cherry Sauce, and even a Tempeh and Bok Choy Stir Fry. These recipes prove that vegetables are just as delicious and as filling as meat.

8 Recipes to Get You Started on a Flexitarian Diet

A plate full of Easy Pesto Pasta with sausage, lemon slices, and asparagus all in a green sauce.

Wanting to dive deeper into veganism and vegetarianism but not rule out meat completely? Being a flexitarian encourages a mostly vegetable and fruit filled diet that allows for occasion, small amounts of meats. This means incorporating meats in healthy ways such as in our Beef Bulgogi Bowls that place it beside large portions of radishes, carrots, cucumbers, and kimchi. Or, try a Seafood Escabeche Salad that incorporates lean seafood like calamari, shrimp, and mussels with other plant-based ingredients.

Delicious Mediterranean Diet Recipes

The Mediterranean diet is one of the most popular in recent years and can make it feel as if you’re living along the coast of some of the most beautiful countries of Europe. It consists of focusing on heart-healthy ingredients to help low cholesterol and blood pressure. These recipes tend to include vegetables, whole grains, seafood, beans, nuts, seeds, and olive oil. As you stray away from red meats and processed sugars, you can look forward to meals like Salmon Poke with Yuzu, Wonton Noodle-Wrapped Prawn Lettuce Wrap, and Seafood Stuffed Poblano Peppers.

10 Keto-Friendly Recipes

A vibrant and nutritious pan salmon and tomato meal featuring perfectly roasted salmon fillets accompanied by a colorful assortment of ripe tomatoes.

Everyone’s heard about keto, and for good reason. A ketogenic diet means cutting out sugar, high-carb foods, beans, and more starchy vegetables. Instead, you want your plate to center on high fats for weight loss and increased energy. Think high protein, nutritious vegetables, and full fat dairy. For a keto diet, you’re going to want to stick to meals like Martha Stewart-Inspired Keto Chicken Roll Ups and Santa Maria-Style Dry Rub Lamb. But, there are ways to tweak recipes so you can still enjoy your favorite tastes. Try our Low Carb Keto Lemon Cranberry Quick Bread and Keto Pumpkin Donuts!

Healthy Dessert Recipes for Your Dietary Needs

A brown plate holds a vegan cheesecake coated in raspberries, blueberries, and a strawberry swirl.

Even though you’re on a diet, you still deserve to have your dessert and eat it too! Did you know there are desserts out there for those needing gluten-free, keto, and vegan options? Or, if you just want to take a small healthy step forward, there are recipes for that too. We’ve got a little something for everyone here and we cover as many categories as we can to bring you tarts, cheesecakes, cakes, pies, cookies, and much more. Bake up a Gluten-Free Whole Grain Apple Cider Layer Cake. Or, try your hand at whipping up a Vegan Berry Macadamia Cheesecake. The options are endless.

Explore Our Other Articles on 2026 Food Trends

Comfort Food
Beat Grocery Inflation with Budget-Friendly Recipes
Feeding a Family in the Shifting Economy
High Quality Protein and Analog Dining
Food as Medicine: Extra Virgin Olive Oil and GLP-1
Food as Medicine: How to Cook, Sip, and Soothe with Ginger

Story by Kylie Thomas

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January–March 2026 Pittsburgh Theater Schedule & Show Guide

Kylie Thomas

January 17, 2026

A woman on a theater stage holds up a large newspaper.

As Pittsburgh shakes off the post‑holiday slump, we encourage you to head out to the city’s theaters this winter, from January through March 2026. The stage lineup is anything but predictable: bold new plays, reimagined classics, laugh‑out‑loud comedies, intimate operas, and high‑energy musicals all share the spotlight. It’s a reminder of just how lucky we are to live in a city with so much artistic freedom and energy. Some people go their entire lives without seeing a theater production, but here in Pittsburgh you can see a new show every night of the week! Whether you’re hunting for a thought‑provoking drama, family‑friendly musical, or something entirely unexpected, Pittsburgh’s theater scene is ready to pull you in, warm you up, and keep you on the edge of your seat.

Theater Productions in Pittsburgh January-March 2026

Wicked

January 14-February 15, Benedum Center

After its box office success, who wouldn’t want to see Wicked live on stage? The Broadway touring production is headed to Pittsburgh to bring the Emerald City straight to you. Join Elphaba and Glinda as they travel Oz in search of answers. With large sets, stunning lights and makeup, as well as a talented cast, it’s a show you won’t want to miss. PRO TIP: the story is told so efficiently and beautifully onstage that the show is less than half the length of just one of the Wicked movies.

Malcolm X & Redd Foxx Washing Dishes at Jimmy’s Chicken Shack in Harlem

January 17-February 8, City Theatre Mainstage

Set in 1943 Harlem, this Co-World Premiere produced by TheatreSquared, City Theatre, Virginia Stage Company, and Dallas Theater Center centers on a young Malcolm X and Redd Foxx before they became legends. Amid racial tension, poverty, and big dreams, the two form an unlikely bond as they work together washing dishes at Jimmy’s Chicken Shack.

Curlew River

January 24-February 1, Calvary Episcopal Church

The Pittsburgh Opera presents this 1964 church parable opera by Benjamin Britten with a libretto by William Plomer. Follow the haunting story of a woman driven to madness by the loss of her son as she encounters a Ferryman while trying to cross a river in search of him. It’s based on a Japanese Noh play but reimagined as a Christian allegory for the masses.

An Enemy of the People

February 4-22, O’Reilly Theater

An Enemy of the People from Pittsburgh Public Theater is Amy Herzog’s new version of Henrik Ibsen’s 1883 classic drama. When Dr. Thomas Stockmann discovers that the water in his town’s new spa is dangerously contaminated, his effort to expose the truth ignites an economic conflict with local leaders, including his own brother. It’s a story that’s also very relevant for our current period in political history.

Agnus Teaches Acting

February 5-6, New Hazlett Theater

If you don’t know Treasure Treasure’s name then you’re about to. At this play’s center is Agnus Stephenson, a self‑proclaimed superstar acting coach whose confidence outshines her actual methods. Equal parts mockumentary comedy and cabaret spectacle, Treasure Treasure writes as well as performs a show like nothing else in this world.

Love Potion No. 13

February 13, Quantum Theatre’s Warehouse

Love Potion No. 13 is an exclusive, one‑night‑only immersive theatrical experience that turns Valentine’s night into something wildly intimate. Instead of a traditional play, Quantum invites 66 patrons into its Warehouse for a series of six micro‑performances written by playwrights Morag Shepherd and Matthew Ivan Bennett and directed by Alex Ungerman. It’s part art, part party.

Romero & Juliet

February 13-14, Greer Cabaret Theater

You know Romeo & Juliet but this version of the tale takes on George Romero-esc zombies and 80s inspired music at the same time. Set in 1985 at a music festival called Deadstock in Verona, Pennsylvania, the show follows Romero, a regional guardsman, as he falls for Juliet. There’s just one issue… she’s a zombie.

Chicago: Teen Edition

February 13-15, New Hazlett Theater

If you want to head out to see Chicago but are looking for something a little more family-friendly, this teen edition is adapted for young performers and audiences while keeping all the razzle‑dazzle you love intact. You’ll still follow Roxie Hart and Velma Kelly in their competition but without the booze, sex, and drugs of the original.

Shrek The Musical

February 14-22, Andrew Carnegie Free Library & Music Hall

This lively, pared‑down adaptation of the beloved Broadway show is created especially for young audiences and aspiring performers. Designed with a shorter runtime and a smaller cast, this Theatre‑for‑Young‑Audiences version keeps all the heart, humor, and memorable characters of the original Shrek story, while making it more accessible and engaging for all.

Annie

February 19-March 1, Byham Theater

Whether it’s on the big screen or on the stage, Annie steals the show with a terrific kid cast that leaves everyone feeling a bit of hope. Watch as Pittsburgh Musical Theater takes you through the life of young orphan Annie. She spends her days in a harsh orphanage run by the mean-spirited Miss Hannigan. But then, she wins a chance at a new life with billionaire Oliver Warbucks.

Disney’s Beauty and the Beast

February 24-March 1, Benedum Center

Tale as old as time… Bring every young child’s fantasy to life by transporting them to the world of Beauty and the Beast featuring the Broadway touring cast. Whether you’re headed for the nostalgia factor or the special tunes, look forward to seeing Belle, the Beast, Chip, Lumiere, and all their other household object friends. You’ll leave feeling like you’ve just been in a storybook.

Time To Act

February 28-March 8, Bitz Opera Factory

Time to Act is a powerful, world-premiere opera presented by Pittsburgh Opera with music by Laura Kaminsky and a libretto by Crystal Manich. Set in a contemporary high school drama club preparing a production of Antigone, the story follows the students as they wrestle with grief, trauma, and division after a new student with a heavy secret arrives.

Eureka Day

March 7-29, City Theatre Mainstage

If you’ve ever been to a school board meeting, you know the chaos that can unleash when school leaders and concerned parents come together. City Theatre brings to you, Eureka Day, portraying that hilarious chaos when a mumps outbreak occurs at a progressive California private school. This play is a way to look at hot‑button debates through a comically true lens.

Shit-faced Shakespeare: Hamlet

March 12-15, Greer Cabaret Theater

Alright, so you all know the story of Hamlet but, do you know the story of Hamlet whenever butt-loads of alcohol are involved? In under two hours, this inebriated bunch will take you through the tale of Hamlet in a hilarious ode-to-Shakespeare way. Who knows what atrocities may come to the stage when mead is at the plenty!

Chicago

March 10-15, Benedum Center

Pop! Six! Squish! Roxie Hart lands in jail for murder and that’s just the beginning of this jazz-age dazzling musical. From the Broadway touring production, throw yourself into the fierce rivalry between Roxie and Velma Kelly as they both vie for headlines, freedom, and stardom with the help of a slick lawyer. In this world, fame is better than living anyways.

Food for Groundlings: Richard II

March 20-22 Glitterbox Theater

You know Macbeth and Hamlet but what about Richard II? From Food for Groundlings and directed by Jonathan Heidenreich, this cast brings to life the downfall of King Richard II with powerful language and dramatic storytelling. They invite audiences to experience one of Shakespeare’s great history plays that sheds light on this historical figure.

Primary Trust

March 25-April 12, O’Reilly Theater

Pittsburgh Public Theater takes the stage with the Pulitzer Prize‑winning drama by Eboni Booth that blends humor, heart, and humanity in a story about connection and second chances. Following loner Kenneth after a career setback, the play mixes comedy and heartbreaking introspection as he confronts his inner demons and navigates life without his imaginary friend Bert.

Beetlejuice Jr.

March 26-29, Gargaro Theater

Be careful not to say his name three times or you may have to deal with Beetlejuice without the help of Lydia, Adam, and Barbara! This young artist production stars preteen students of Pittsburgh Musical Theater’s Conservatory. It’s the story you know and love but with catchy songs and crazy stage effects that bring fun nightmares to life.

Story by Kylie Thomas
Photo Courtesy of Chicago on Tour

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Hot Bunny Rum Smash (A Bad Bunny Cocktail)

Kylie Thomas

January 16, 2026

A Hot Bunny Smash in a yellow color sits in a cocktail glass with a tajin rim, lime slice, and hot pepper garnish.

Any artist who can surpass Taylor Swift in listening stats more than deserves a spot on the Super Bowl LX stage. So, to celebrate Bad Bunny’s time in the spotlight, we’re sipping on a Hot Bunny Rum Smash during his halftime show appearance. Inspired by his Puerto Rican roots, this cocktail keeps your night spicy with a habanero, hot honey, and white rum smash. The use of Don Q Cristal Rum here showcases the best Puerto Rico has to offer while lime and orange juice highlight the natural accents. Finish it off with a Tajín rim that leaves you feeling just like Bad Bunny’s music does: hot, hot, hot!

A liquid pours into a glass with a tajin rim, lime slice, and hot pepper.

When is Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl Halftime Show?

Bad Bunny headlines the Super Bowl LX Halftime Show on February 8 at Levi’s Stadium in California. While there is no specific time for the performance, halftime usually begins somewhere around 8 to 8:30 p.m so you’ll want to be to your TV and ready with your Hot Bunny Smash before then. You won’t want to miss his set as he is expected to perform popular songs like EoO or Callaita. Since Bad Bunny has also collab-ed with artists like Cardi B, Marc Anthony, Daddy Yankee, and Ozuna, we’re sure to see some famous faces hit the stage alongside him. All we know so far is he is requiring his field cast to be between 5 feet, 10 inches and 6 feet, 1 inch tall and also must be able to wear a costume weighing up to 40 pounds. Talk about specific…

Hot Bunny Rum Smash (A Bad Bunny Cocktail)

Author: Camila Alarcón Cordón

Print Recipe

Description

Spicy, bold, and dripping with deliciousness, just like Bad Bunny.

Ingredients

Scale

2 habanero pepper slices
2 tbsp hot honey
1 lime, juiced
1 orange, juiced
2.5 oz Don Q Cristal Rum (or your choice of white rum)
Tajín

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Muddle your habanero slices and hot honey at the bottom of your cocktail shaker.
Add crushed ice, lime juice, orange juice, Don Q Cristal Rum and shake.
Add hot honey to your glass rim and gently press into Tajin on a plate.
Strain your cocktail into glass a glass with ice then garnish with a lime and orange slice.

Did you make this recipe?

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

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While you’re here, make sure you’re ready for the big game with our Ultimate Guide to Super Bowl Party Planning.

Recipe by Camila Alarcón Cordón
Styling by Anna Franklin
Photography by Dave Bryce

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How to Feed a Family in the Shifting Economy of 2026

Kylie Thomas

January 16, 2026

A woman grocery shops in a store with a basket on her arm.

With grocery prices on the rise, feeding a household today can feel like a constant negotiation between health, time and cost. But eating well on a budget doesn’t have to mean deprivation. Often, it’s about identifying the habits that quietly cost families the most and learning how to replace them with smarter strategies.

As a restaurateur married to a chef and a mom of three, I’ve seen firsthand how intentional planning and thoughtful choices can turn ordinary grocery trips into strategic investments in wellness and savings, even on a tight budget.

Here are several effective ways to keep healthy, affordable food on your table.

Tips for Grocery Shopping and Feeding a Family in the 2026 Economy

Shelves of vegetable produce inside a grocery store. — Photo Courtesy of NRD

Consider the Source

Paying attention to where your food comes from, and how much nourishment it provides often reveals that the “cheap” option offers the least value. Frozen chicken products, for instance, are marketed as convenient shortcuts, but they’re nutritionally costly. At ALDI, you may spend $8 on a 25-ounce package of frozen chicken nuggets with more than 20 added ingredients. The same store sells chicken thighs for $2.29 per pound, with one ingredient. The latter delivers more food, better nutrition and greater versatility.

A person pushes a grocery cart full of ingredients. — Photo Courtesy of Karsten Winegeart

Plan Ahead with a Weekly Meal Strategy

Meal planning is one of the most effective tools for building a healthy, cost-efficient kitchen. Start by outlining meals for the week, then list the ingredients needed. This simple step prevents last-minute decisions that often lead to expensive takeout or fast food (one drive-thru trip for a family of five can easily exceed $50). Instead, put that money towards an intentional family dinner at a local restaurant and work it into your plan so it feels special rather than impulsive.

An uncooked chicken sits on a cutting board. — Photo Courtesy of Hayley Ryczek

Use Leftovers Strategically

When planning meals, aim to include a minimum of two or three leftover-based meals. In our house, leftovers would die in the back of the fridge if they weren’t labeled, dated and part of the plan. Labeling helps prevent food waste and keeps meals visible. And leftovers don’t need to be repetitive: a batch of Bolognese might appear with penne one night, on slider buns with ricotta the next day and tucked into breakfast tacos later in the week.

Four sections of berries, nuts, and seeds. — Photo Courtesy of Yisong Dong

Skip Last-Minute Shopping Trips

Impulse purchases are one the biggest budget drains. Shopping without a plan, especially when hungry, makes it more likely you’ll grab high-margin, low-nutrition items. Designate one weekly shopping day and stick to a list. I also use that day as my prep day, washing and chopping ingredients in advance so meals come together quickly when needed.

Pumpkins sit on top of each other in orange and green. — Photo Courtesy of Aaron Burden

Look for Bargains Without Sacrificing Quality

Healthy food doesn’t need to come from high-end stores. ALDI often carries comparable products at significantly lower prices.

Explore Our Other Articles on 2026 Food Trends

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Beat Grocery Inflation with Budget-Friendly Recipes
High Quality Protein and Analog Dining
Dietary Health
Food as Medicine: Extra Virgin Olive Oil and GLP-1
Food as Medicine: How to Cook, Sip, and Soothe with Ginger

Story by Katrina Tomacchio (@thenortheastginger)
Featured Photo Courtesy of Boxed Water is Better

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Description

Ingredients

Instructions

Tips for Grocery Shopping and Feeding a Family in the 2026 Economy

Consider the Source

Plan Ahead with a Weekly Meal Strategy

Use Leftovers Strategically

Skip Last-Minute Shopping Trips

Look for Bargains Without Sacrificing Quality

Explore Our Other Articles on 2026 Food Trends

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