Small Business Saturday introduces community members to the local shops and restaurants they might not have encountered otherwise. But this single day doesn’t have to be the only time you explore your neighborhood. Make it a point to shop small the next time you’re out and about rather than running straight to Target. You’ll find quality products, often handmade, and friendly staff that help grow our towns one purchase at a time. Here is a guide to shopping locally in your favorite towns and neighborhoods.
Shadyside is filled with local businesses all along Walnut Street and beyond. Visit designer boutiques, find customizable home decor, and browse plenty of jewelry options ready to service your needs.
Whether you’re looking for an official Tudor and Rolex seller, a unique hardware shop, or contemporary men’s clothing, Mount Lebanon has you covered. Plus, eat at a variety of small restaurants for a snack during your trip.
Find gifts that’ll impress any recipient in Sewickley. Create a personalized flower bouquet, find one-of-a-kind antique-inspired furniture, or take home a new fashionable piece of women’s clothing.
Mix up your usual routine in Lawrenceville with different small businesses. Make your own scented candle with a loved one, stop in at a cannabis and self-care boutique, then end your day with a hearty dinner.
Aspinwall and Fox Chapel shops work to make sure you’re showcasing your personality in every aspect of your life. Create your perfectly designed home, curate a closet that you want to wear, and even make sure your invitations show who you are.
Take care of your furry friend just like you would yourself with these Downtown Beaver shops. Bring your cat or dog back a homemade healthy snack and don’t forget to treat yourself to fabulous eats.
The locally-owned businesses of Oakmont and Verona are home to some great finds and bites. From thrifty antiques to luxury women’s clothing and artisan-made fine jewelry, shopping here is sure to turn up something unique for yourself or someone you’re gifting.
Shop our other local gift guides for men, women, children, home, food and drink, and makers products for more ways to support small businesses.
The most rewarding thing you do all year may be volunteering and giving to help your neighbors meet their basic needs. Please give generously to the worthy non-profits below this Giving Tuesday. Their work transforms lives and uplifts communities throughout the region.
United Way of Southwestern Pennsylvania
The holidays offer the promise of connection and celebration, and the opportunity to share all that we have with people we love. It’s a moment to consider how you can have a significant impact on others. At United Way of Southwestern Pennsylvania, we are dedicated to making sure that everyone in our region has what they need to thrive. Uncertain economic conditions have made that more difficult than ever. This is especially true for those whose SNAP food assistance benefits were disrupted by the government shutdown.
If you’re not yet familiar with our work, please consider this your invitation to learn more about what we do. Each year, we raise more than $30 million to fund vital human services in our region. We then award those funds to human services agencies that meet basic needs, move people to financial stability, and build for success in school and life.
United Way’s Impact
What is surprising to many is that United Way is also a significant driver of the local economy. A study published last year by PwC found that, in 2023 alone, United Way contributed $65.4 million to the regional gross domestic product. Further, every dollar invested by United Way is essentially doubled, generating at least two dollars of positive economic value. Every United Way job creates more than four additional local jobs, for a total of 581 jobs created across the region. Facts like these show that giving is good for everyone, not just the agencies that receive grants.
Our work is only possible because we have the generous support of corporations, businesses, and foundations. These supporters stand with us in funding highly effective nonprofit partner agencies that are adept at collaborating and problem solving to make our region better for everyone. Please consider giving and volunteering with us to uplift our neighbors and community. In this Giving Guide I hope you’ll find inspiration to give generously, creating a stronger region for all.
– Bobbi Watt Geer, Ph.D., President & CEO of United Way of Southwestern Pennsylvania
Give Back to These Pittsburgh Non-Profits on Giving Tuesday 2025
Student success starts with showing up. When students are absent, they miss valuable learning opportunities. A+ Schools gets kids what they need so they can show up every day!
The Child Health Association of Sewickley unites women in volunteer service to fund children’s charities across Western Pennsylvania — a 102-year tradition of compassion, community, and lasting impact.
Support GPNP and The Forbes Funds in strengthening Pittsburgh’s nonprofit network. Your gift powers advocacy, innovation, and capacity building for 500+ organizations leading social change across our region.
Pennsylvania Women Work empowers individuals to advance in their careers and achieve self-sufficiency through life-changing career development programs, one-on-one career coaching, and mentorship.
Providence Connections serves Pittsburgh’s North Side with comprehensive education and resources for families. These include a Keystone STARS 4 childcare facility with Head Start, Early Head Start, and Pre-K Counts classrooms, and the Northside Family Center.
Sarah Heinz House inspires members of all ages to realize their full potential in a nurturing and inclusive environment. When we invest in our community and its people, we invest in the greater good of all.
Community Kitchen Pittsburgh seeks to connect and support the regional food economy; to be an asset to our community, and to create lifelong opportunities for people who need employment.
Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank ensures everyone has access to healthy meals. Join our network to help neighbors thrive with food for today, tomorrow, and a lifetime. Your support powers lasting change.
Hello Neighbor empowers refugees and immigrants through community connections, ensuring their journey from arrival to belonging is guided by dignity, cultural sensitivity, and support.
The Little Sisters provide a home for those 65 or older who are financially needy. They offer 48 skilled nursing care rooms and 40 independent living apartments.
Justice should never depend on a paycheck. Neighborhood Legal Services opens doors to safety, stability, and hope—providing free civil legal help so our neighbors can protect their home, family, safety, and future.
Safe Moves for Seniors helps low-income older adults move safely and comfortably by covering all moving costs and coordination through local partnerships. Your support ensures every senior can transition to a secure home with dignity.
The Westmoreland Food Bank works to transform hunger into hope, creating a community where everyone has access to nourishing meals and a brighter future.
Pittsburgh Festival Opera redefines opera with world-class, boundary-breaking performances that unite artists and audiences in inspiring, personal, and accessible experiences. At PFO, it is all about the voice.
Pittsburgh Community Broadcasting’s public mission is to serve all the people of our region with musical discovery and fact-based journalism that are vital to a thriving community. Donations will bolster an independent future.
You can help the Western Pennsylvania Conservancy ensure that Fallingwater lives on as a place of beauty and a powerful source of inspiration for present and future generations.
The Allegheny County Parks Foundation improves, conserves, and restores nine county parks by protecting nature, restoring history, and creating accessible, sustainable spaces that enrich millions of lives every year.
For over 10 years, Pittsburgh Botanic Garden has welcomed visitors to explore its 65 acres of gardens and woodlands. Help the Garden continue its conservation and sustainability impact with a donation.
The Parks Conservancy restores and cares for the city’s parks, creating vibrant, accessible green spaces, engaging communities through education and recreational programs, and fostering safe, inclusive places for all to enjoy.
We stand alongside the families we serve and accompany them with essential needs, training, and placement into dignified work. They graduate with a living income, and with opportunities to build generational wealth and end poverty.
Achieva advocates, empowers, and supports people with disabilities throughout their lives. Your donation funds their independence, inclusion, and a life of personal significance for all.
This year the Benedictine Sisters of Pittsburgh celebrate over 155 years of service. Their daily prayers for peace, social justice, and hospitality are more vital today than ever before.
The Children’s Home of Pittsburgh provides critical medical, social, and emotional care for children and families. Your gift helps The Children’s Home meet children and adults where they are, to offer them individualized support and compassionate care.
The Western Pennsylvania Chapter of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation is dedicated to advancing research, supporting families, and raising awareness to help find a cure for cystic fibrosis and improve lives.
In the Shadyside area, Family House provides safe, affordable lodging near Pittsburgh hospitals, easing stress for patients and families during medical crises with comfort, support, and a welcoming home away from home.
Family Links supports individuals and families through community, behavioral, and social programs that help people build resilience and independence. Together, we create pathways to hope for 11,000 individuals across our region.
The JCC nurtures people and creates community each day and across every age group. Guided and inspired by Jewish values, we create inclusive spaces for growth, wellness, and belonging.
Metro Community Health Center provides inclusive primary, mental, and dental care across Southwestern Pennsylvania. Your donations help expand access through our sliding fee and Mobile Clinic programs.
Persad never turns anyone away from mental health services they may need. They accept most insurances—including Medicare and Medicaid—and offer care in-person or through tele-health, ensuring everyone can access the support they deserve.
Special Olympics Pennsylvania provides year-round sports training and competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports for children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Vincentian has humbly and proudly served as a sanctuary of care and compassion for those most in need in the Pittsburgh community since 1924, establishing caregiving refuges for our most vulnerable neighbors.
The holidays are for laughter, cheer, and raising a glass (or two) with the people you love most. We’re showcasing cozy warm drinks that feel like a hug in a mug, sparkling festive concoctions that dazzle at any party, and so many other recipes. These 50 holiday cocktails are guaranteed to impress your friends and family. Whether you’re hosting a big gathering, gifting a boozy treat, or simply treating yourself, there’s a drink here for every palate and every festive moment.
Eva Longoria–inspired a sangria that blends bold Rioja, brandy, Cointreau, citrus, and crisp fruit. It’s also lightened with club soda for a festive yet refreshing holiday cocktail.
With earthy beet simple syrup mingling with red wine, citrus, herbs, and a splash of Cointreau, this Beet Red Sangria offers a complex, jewel-toned twist on the classic party pitcher.
Warm chai tea, vanilla liqueur, and red wine come together in this Spice Is Nice Sangria for a cozy, mulled‑wine–vibed batch cocktail that’s perfect for fall or winter gatherings.
A sparkling blend of apple cider and vodka, brightened with fresh thyme and citrus—this cocktail recipe brings light, festive warmth to your Thanksgiving toast.
This Pumpkin Spice Latte Martini swirls rich espresso, creamy pumpkin‑spice almond creamer, and vodka into a cozy, autumnal treat rimmed with chocolate.
A warming mix of whiskey, spicy hot honey, and bright lemon simmered in steaming water — this hot honey toddy delivers cozy heat with a soothing, sweet kick.
Gin, sweet vermouth, and Campari combine with ginger liqueur and candied ginger in a batch Negroni that brings warmth and sophistication to any winter gathering.
Bright lemon mingles with apricot and peach liqueurs, tart cherry juice, and Maker’s Mark in a nostalgic yet elegant fruit-punch batch cocktail that’s built for sharing.
A buttery kiss of maple syrup and a hint of vanilla swirl into spiced rum and cola, all rimmed with hot fudge and holiday candy for an Elf‑inspired cocktail that’s as sweet and nostalgic as Buddy’s surprising breakfast.
A cozy, dessert‑worthy drink of Kahlúa, whipped cream vodka, and cream, topped with whipped cream and playful sprinkles — the Melted Snowman cocktail is festive, sweet, and totally charming.
Warm, fruity Syrah swirls with Cognac, maple syrup, orange, and a spice-laden punch of cinnamon, star anise, and cloves to create Clarence’s Mulled Wine—an angelic, wintertime sip that feels like a cozy hug.
Cranberry juice, ginger ale, and raspberry vodka mingle in a festive punch bowl, garnished with cranberries and pretzels for a charming, holiday‑spirited sipper.
A nostalgic float of vanilla ice cream and root beer gets a merry makeover with Grey Goose vodka, a splash of crème de menthe, and fizzy lift to bring holiday cheer.
Tequila, lime, agave syrup, and a splash of beer combine in Cousin Eddie’s Trailer Fuel for a laid-back, margarita‑meets-beer cocktail with a hilarious holiday twist.
Warm apple cider simmers with ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and ancho chile, then gets spiked with spiced rum and served in mugs rimmed with crushed Biscoff cookie dust for a cozy, holiday‑spiced Ginger Snap Cocktail.
A silky flip of bourbon, cold-brew coffee, cream, and a whole egg — rimmed in crushed waffle cone and caramel — the Stroopwafel Flip delivers a plush, dessert-worthy holiday sip. The inspiration here comes from the moment the film’s Santa speaks perfect Dutch to a little girl new to the United States.
Gin meets tangy hibiscus‑blueberry tea, lemon, and rosemary syrup in Red Ryder Punch, a festive, scarlet-hued holiday sipper inspired by A Christmas Story.
A silky, frothy blend of tequila and smoky mezcal meets espresso, cherry and cranberry juices, triple sec, and chocolate bitters — crowned with an egg-white foam and a dusting of cocoa for a festive, nostalgic holiday cocktail.
A lively fizz of gin, lemon, and simple syrup topped with sparkling wine — this take on the French 75 is a timeless, elegant cocktail that brings bubbly sophistication to any celebration.
A smoky mezcal and Amaro Nonino riff on the classic Aviation, brightened with maraschino liqueur and fresh lemon juice for a sophisticated, four‑part flight of flavor.
Limoncello mingles with yellow Chartreuse, fresh lemon juice, lemon sherbet, and egg white in a bright, frothy cocktail that shimmers like liquid gold and brings holiday cheer.
Toasted oats infuse Grey Goose vodka with nutty richness, then blend with matcha syrup, lime, Dolin Génépy, and a foamy egg‑white top in the Six Geese a‑Laying cocktail for a festive, refined sip.
A silky, vegan twist on the classic Puerto Rican coquito. We’re blending coconut milk, spiced “tea,” and aged rum for a creamy, festive holiday cocktail.
A warm, dance‑inspired blend of Don Julio Blanco tequila, fig‑thyme syrup, bergamot, and a pinch of cinnamon. We’re spinning this sweet fruit into cozy holiday spice.
Bourbon meets crisp apple juice, lemon, and sweet demerara in the Ten Lords a‑Leaping cocktail. Add a frothy egg-white top and a regal apple-fan garnish for a festive holiday toast.
A warm blend of spiced cinnamon syrup and bitters topped with bright sparkling wine. The Eleven Pipers Piping cocktail brings cozy holiday charm in a fizz.
A festive rum cocktail that mixes hibiscus tea, apple cider, ginger liqueur, lemon, and cinnamon syrup. It’s also shaken and served over ice for a celebratory sip.
A calming blend of botanical gin, lemon, honey, and tulsi rose‑tea syrup stirred into warm herbal tea. Try The Peacekeeper for a soothing pick that’s perfect for the holiday’s most diplomatic guest.
A smooth-and-savory twist on an Old Fashioned. Cognac and rye mingle with rich brown-butter syrup and bitters over a giant ice cube and peel of orange.
Spiced pomegranate syrup, vodka, citrus, and grenadine shake together to make The Babysitter. It’s a light, fruity cocktail that’s playful and grown‑up all at once.
Tart cranberry juice and herby rosemary–simple syrup mingle under a bubbly pour of prosecco. Our Cranberry Rosemary Spritz is festive, fragrant, and perfect for holiday toasts.
A bold twist on a classic Negroni, the Espresso Negroni layers rich, freshly brewed espresso with gin, Campari, sweet vermouth, and citrus syrup for a caffeinated, bittersweet sip.
Creamy coconut cream, warm spices, and aged Puerto Rican rum swirl into this rich, tropical Coquito. It’s a festive Christmas cocktail that’s like an island eggnog.
A warming blend of cognac, cinnamon‑simple syrup, and sweet apple butter. The Three Wisest Men and a Cocktail feels like a cozy holiday hug in a glass.
A warm and fragrant mulled wine recipe that simmers red wine with maple syrup, apples, and a cozy mix of cinnamon, cloves, and allspice—making it the perfect festive drink for cold winter nights.
A soothing winter warmer of bourbon, honey, lemon, and aromatic spices (cinnamon, cloves, star anise). The Winter Hot Toddy is like a hug in a mug for chilly nights.
Vodka and espresso team up with fragrant cardamom syrup, cream, and a pinch of allspice. This Spiked Cardamom Coffee is a warm, aromatic mellow‑meets-spirited cup.
Spiced apple cider gets a boozy boost with bourbon, rum, or vodka. Then garnish the mug with cinnamon sticks and orange slices for the ultimate cozy nightcap.
Thanksgiving is all about gathering around the table, sharing laughter, and savoring the flavors that make the holiday so special. While the turkey often takes center stage, it’s the sides that bring color, texture, and irresistible flavor to the feast. From creamy mac and cheese and roasted vegetables to salads as well as unexpected twists on classic favorites, these 50 Thanksgiving side recipes are designed to delight every palate and fill your dinner table with gratitude. Plus, we promise you’ll have leftovers for plenty of seconds.
This savory and sweet side dish features large baking apples cored and filled with a rich, seasoned stuffing of smoked sausage, onions, and sage, then baked in apple cider until fork-tender.
A deeply satisfying, customizable Thanksgiving stuffing crafted with toasted bread, leek, celery, mushrooms, sage-butter, as well as a rich homemade stock — perfect for tailoring to everyone at the table.
A luxurious side comes together with roasted winter squash halves filled with a rich, savory brioche-and-sausage bread pudding. Then it’s all elevated by earthy black truffle paste for a deeply aromatic finish.
A versatile and adventurous stuffing that starts with quality bread and lets you mix in fall-forward flavor riffs — from sweet potatoes and figs to sausage and rye — for a side that’s anything but ordinary.
A bright winter side salad of pickled beets, roasted fennel, grapefruit, and apricots, dressed in a tangy-sweet stone-ground mustard vinaigrette that balances earthy and also zesty flavors beautifully.
Crisp-blanched green beans smothered in a creamy mushroom sauce, layered with sautéed mushrooms, as well as crowned with smoky bacon “dust” for deconstructed crunch.
A vibrant, root-vegetable twist on the classic latke. Think shredded carrots and beets pan-fried into crisp, jewel-toned fritters that pair beautifully with sour cream, dill, as well as smoked salmon.
A sheet-pan side of roasted zucchini, squash, okra, corn, and also tomatoes, finished with a sweet-heat glaze of honey, Fresno pepper sauce, and chili flakes to bring a spicy-sweet crunch to the Thanksgiving table.
A cozy holiday side of shredded red cabbage simmered in sweet Concord grape juice as well as apple cider vinegar, enriched with smoky bacon and onions for a vibrant, tangy-sweet flavor.
A simple, flavorful sheet-pan side of roasted baby potatoes, green beans, red onion, peas, toasted cumin, and then mustard seeds — all brightened with fresh lemon juice.
A colorful, protein-packed side salad combining orange lentils with sweet corn, tender asparagus, edible flowers, and also mint for a garden-fresh dish.
Sweet‑and‑spicy side of halved Brussels sprouts sautéed in ginger‑garlic chili oil, then glazed with a citrusy apricot‑orange sauce and finished with optional crispy fried onion.
A bold Thanksgiving side is our caramelized Brussels sprouts tossed with sherry vinegar and juicy pomegranate seeds, then topped with finely diced, smoky venison jerky for a savory-lean protein punch.
A cozy, crispy-roasted side of smashed Japanese sweet potatoes layered with turmeric, chili flakes, crushed nori, as well as a drizzle of ghee for smoky, umami-rich flavor.
A stunning holiday side of thinly sliced sweet potatoes arranged like rosettes in a muffin tin, smothered in a creamy, nutmeg- and herb-spiked cheese sauce, and baked until golden.
A light, veggie-packed side of crispy fritters made from grated sweet potato, zucchini, and fresh corn — pan-fried until golden and herb-flecked for a naturally sweet, savory bite.
A rich and classic Thanksgiving side of creamy mashed sweet potatoes layered in a buttery brown‑sugar mix and then topped with a crunchy pecan crumble for that perfect sweet-and-nutty finish.
A moist, golden-baked side made from creamed as well as whole kernel corn, flour, and cornmeal — sturdy enough to cut into shapes and sweet enough to shine on your Thanksgiving table.
Roasted butternut squash halves stuffed with a savory-sweet mixture of sausage, spinach, cranberries, pecans, and feta — baked until piping hot and full of holiday sparkle.
A cold weather‑friendly side of caramelized carrots drizzled with a creamy yogurt‑tahini sauce and then finished with crunchy pepitas, parsley, and a smoky touch of sumac.
This crunchy, savory recipe for butter beans tosses them in cornstarch and bakes until crisp. Serve alongside a silky whipped chèvre dip for a rich, lemony contrast.
Roast wild mushrooms and baby potatoes until golden, then top them with a vibrant, herbaceous chimichurri sauce to elevate this familiar duo into a gourmet, vegan‑friendly side.
Dress tender pears with salty blue‑cheese crumbles, crunchy pistachios, and also a sprinkle of pink peppercorns for an elegantly simple Thanksgiving side.
This side features heady roasted garlic nestled into crusty bread, baked with melted cheese so every soft, caramelized clove can be savored by scooping through the gooey, golden layers.
These Medjool dates get stuffed with creamy goat cheese, brushed with a honey syrup, and then rolled in crushed pistachios for a sweet-and-savory side.
This recipe transforms classic deviled eggs into a refined bite by topping creamy yolk‑mayo filling with royal Ossetra caviar as well as a sprinkle of chives.
This shaved Brussels sprouts salad mixes crisp sprouts with sweet-tangy cranberries, crunchy almonds, smoky bacon, as well as a honey‑mustard vinaigrette.
This recipe roasts fresh turnips and radishes (greens still attached), then nestles them in pumpernickel crumbs and finishes with a creamy, herb-packed Green Goddess dressing.
Our easy mac and cheese blends creamy cheddar with hidden zucchini as well as carrots, all simmered in savory bone broth for a comforting, veggie‑boosted side.
This go-to cheddar mac & cheese melts sharp, easy-to-melt cheeses into a lusciously creamy sauce that can be served straight from the pot or topped and baked until bubbly.
Who wouldn’t love a homemade mac and cheese? We’re melting together five rich cheeses — sharp cheddar, pepper jack, Gruyère, Gouda, as well as Velveeta — for an ultra-creamy, comforting bake.
These meatballs get a festive makeover, glazed in a tart‑cranberry and gochujang sauce spiced with ginger, soy, and then vinegar for a bold sweet-heat appetizer.
Try a savory braised-apple side dish that bathes tender Golden Delicious apples in wine, white balsamic, and garlic, then finishes them with chile Colorado and a buttery reduction.
This pumpkin risotto roasts the dish inside hollowed‑out pumpkins, filling creamy arborio rice with sage, Parmesan, as well as cozy fall flavors for a stunning, comfort-food‑meets-centerpiece side.
Mix up a salad that layers sweet roasted pumpkin with creamy chèvre, jewel‑bright pomegranate arils, and also crunchy pepitas on a bed of hearty greens for a fall‑forward side full of texture and color.
As December begins, you won’t want to wait a second longer to dive into Pittsburgh’s lively mix of things to see and do. Seasonal happenings in the arts, community groups, shops and more make sure the week of December 1–7 leaves you busy and bustling in the best way possible. Grab a group of friends to tag alone, explore on your own, or bring the family along to kick this month off the right way.
Fringe First-winner Richard Marsh brings his acclaimed retelling of the action classic Die Hard to the Pittsburgh stage. This unauthorized parody blends fast-paced comedy, heartfelt storytelling, and a lifelong fan’s passion for the iconic holiday film. Expect laughs, nostalgia, and an inventive spin on one of the best holiday movies of all time.
This festive evening in the Strip District celebrates women’s empowerment and offers an opportunity for Giving Tuesday donations. Gather your girlfriends for indoor golfing, wellness activations, a mobile sauna, permanent jewelry, mocktails, and a curated marketplace all towards helping Greater Pittsburgh Food Bank and 412 Food Rescue.
Learn festive mixology at Fairmont Pittsburgh’s Holiday Cocktail Classes where expert bartenders will guide you through seasonal cocktails. You’ll learn to use different spirits during each weekly session, making it a spirited night out or a gift-able experience.
The holiday classic is back from the Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre’s talented company of artists. This year’s iteration of The Nutcracker is set in the glitz and glamor of turn-of-the-century Pittsburgh. The Tchaikovsky score will be as iconic as always, and you will leave humming at least one of its memorable melodies.
A festive, family-friendly celebration takes over Pittsburgh’s South Side on East Carson Street. Look forward to the holiday tree lighting, Santa’s arrival, live music, local food trucks, ice sculptures, artisan holiday shopping in a winter market, and even a beer garden for the adults, too.
When you’re home in Pittsburgh for Thanksgiving, the city’s bars offer not only a place to gather with old friends but also a place to escape your family when the questions become a bit too much. (No grandma, there is no new man in our life!) The best part about Pittsburgh as a city is it delivers both upscale sophistication and cozy neighborhood charm throughout its bar scene. Chic, elegant lounges, speakeasies, and laid-back dives all provide the perfect backdrop for catching up with old pals or simply savoring a quiet moment away from the holiday bustle. All depending on what kind of atmosphere you desire, of course.
Bars to Gather at Over Thanksgiving Break in Pittsburgh
5 Elegant, Upscale Bars to Visit Over Thanksgiving Break
Not only is this bar open for Thanksgiving but their cocktail menu is one that’ll have you dreaming happy thoughts rather than family woes. Inside The Oaklander Hotel, Spirits and Tales blends high-end mixology with imaginative presentation. The intimate, sleek interior is perfect for savoring craft cocktails with friends or a loved one as you look over the lights of Oakland.
The drink program at fl.2 is as sophisticated as its interior, making classic cocktails a local fixture. Guests can enjoy small-batch estate wines or craft cocktails that showcase attention to balance and presentation. Not to mention, much of the bar is full of local spirits to ensure quality in every sip.
A cozy, Italian-inspired bar in bustling Lawrenceville, Grapperia specializes in, you guessed it, grappa and amari. Their cocktail menu leans into these unique spirits, and the ambiance is warm, welcoming, and slightly old-world chic. We’re sure you’ll try a taste of something new that may just become a favorite.
Channeling Prohibition-era vibes, this hidden bar in the Omni’s basement is one of the city’s best kept secrets. The noir setting matches the highball and gimlets that star on the menu. Imagine plush leather seating, dimly lit chandeliers, and vintage décor that transports you to the 1920s.
Another staple of Downtown (possibly one of the best meeting points for its central location), Bridges & Bourbon is known for craft cocktails on top of an impressive bourbon selection. The stylish, modern interior and thoughtful seasonal drinks make it a great place to toast being home for the holidays.
In Millvale, Poetry Lounge feels like a dive and a speakeasy at once so it’s your perfect in-between. It’s literary-themed, with friendly bartenders and strong cocktails. It’s a place where locals can go to unwind, play pinball, catch open mic nights, or simply enjoy a quiet drink.
Over in Squirrel Hill, Hidden Harbor is the laid-back, tiki‑bar you’ve been searching for. With soft lighting, island-inspired cocktails, and a relaxing atmosphere, it’s a charming spot to unwind especially when you meet up with old friends. Plus their bites are great to split amongst a group.
Shadyside Hideaway Bar is exactly what its name promises: a cozy, unpretentious dive that still makes sure each sip is worth your dollar. The bar literally hides over on Highland Avenue with an intimate space, dim lighting, and a few narrow booths. It’s one of those places that no matter what cocktail you fancy, it’s going to be a solid, enjoyable drink.
Step into a lush, greenhouse-inspired interior with hanging vines and warm candlelight at Bar Botanico in Lawrenceville. Outside of their regular cocktail program, they also feature zero-proof spirits like Seedlip and Cut Above, so their mocktails are thoughtfully crafted and complex. This means you can indulge in a beverage that’s not just soda with lime.
It wouldn’t be a homecoming without a trip to Dee’s. A longtime South Side institution, this bar is not one but two floors of character. The ground floor includes a U‑shaped bar and plenty of booths for socializing. Then, the second floor lines the walls and floor with darts, ping-pong, and pool tables for a no-fuss hang out with friends.
Story by Kylie Thomas Photo Courtesy of John Arano
As the Pittsburgh Botanic Garden prepares to launch its 2025 Dazzling Nights, we sit down with Keith S. Kaiser, the visionary leader who has also guided the Garden through years of transformative growth and is now preparing for his retirement. This magical, mile-long holiday light experience features immersive displays like the 50-foot Shimmering Square as well as the Brilliance spectacle over the lotus pond. We talk with Kaiser about the creative choices behind this year’s most epic installation, his legacy of connecting the community with nature, as well as his thoughts on stepping away as Pittsburgh’s essential holiday tradition shines brightest.
Pittsburgh Botanic Garden’s Executive Director Keith S. Kaiser Talks Dazzling Nights and a Memorable Career
Installation created and installed and produced by Florida based company called Memoir
TABLE Magazine: Why is Dazzling Nights so special?
Keith S. Kaiser, Executive Direct: Dazzling Nights is a winter light show that is unique to Pittsburgh. It’s an immersive walking experience that combines the beauty of the winter landscape, the magic of illumination, and the festiveness of this holiday time of year.
TM: Why is this year of Dazzling Nights special?
KSK: This year, the fourth year of Dazzling Nights, highlights a special feature. It combines artistic talents centered around the display at the Lotus Pond. This exhibit connects Patrick Shearn’s Momentum artwork and the special effects of Memoir, the lighting design team.
TM: Why are you passionate about gardening?
KSK: I am fortunate to find my life’s passion early on, having it center around plants. Working in public horticulture for nearly 50 years, at places like Pittsburgh Botanic Garden, has given me the opportunity to share my enthusiasm to educate people about the importance of plants in our lives.
TM: What do you love about Pittsburgh Botanic Garden?
KSK: The Garden is a unique place. It is a young cultural institution in the greater Pittsburgh community that amazes and inspires those who discover it. The focus of the Garden to the natural ecosystem of Western Pennsylvania, called the Allegheny Plateau, and its’ ability to share that with visitors is extremely important today and in the future.
TM: What are your hopes for the future of Pittsburgh Botanic Garden?
KSK: This year, 2025 is a milestone. Dazzling Nights wraps up a long list of events that celebrate 10 years of welcoming visitors to see and learn about the Garden. This year Master Plan 2025 was released, providing a plan for growth and development over the next 20 plus years. I am so pleased to have been part of the past 10 years and look forward with great excitement to what the years ahead will bring.
Who doesn’t love Benoit Blanc from the Knives Out series of movies? In honor of Netflix’s release of Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery, The Benoit Blanc is a sophisticated, multi-layered cocktail that mirrors the brilliant detective himself. Think of a Whiskey Sour, traditional, complex, resilient. We’re using smooth bourbon, fresh lemon juice, and a frothy egg white to provide a plush, velvety texture. It’s a feeling similar to Blanc’s luxurious and unforgettable wares. The “clue” here is the dramatic float of Cabernet Sauvignon. We pour it gently over a spoon to create a bloody, crimson layer. It sits on top of the pale yellow cocktail. Talk about a mystery in a cocktail!
What is Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery About?
The third installment of Netflix’s hit series, Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery, follows our favorite quirky detective Benoit Blanc (Daniel Craig) to a secluded Catholic parish in upstate New York. The mystery revolves around the murder of the controversial Monsignor Jefferson Wicks (Josh Brolin). When the newly assigned Father Jud Duplenticy (Josh O’Connor) comes into the parish, he becomes a key suspect. Now, it’s up to Blanc to solve this mystery set in a gothic paradise.
An ode to our favorite detective in classic cocktail form.
Ingredients
Scale
2 oz bourbon
1 oz fresh squeezed lemon juice
¾ oz simple syrup
½ – 1 oz Cabernet Sauvignon
1 egg white
Instructions
In a cocktail shaker, add the bourbon, lemon, simple, and egg white. Shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds. Do this without ice to emulsify the egg. This is called a dry shake.
Then add ice and shake for another 15 seconds.
Strain pour into a rocks glass (with or without ice). Float the cabernet by pouring it over the back of a spoon into the glass. This creates a layered effect.
Garnish with a lemon twist.
Recipe by Sarah Cascone Styling by Anna Franklin Photography by Dave Bryce
The world has been waiting in anticipation since 2022 for the last and final season of Stranger Things and finally the time has come. Dive into season five of this global phenomenon with The Upside Down cocktail. This haunting cocktail channels the otherworldly dimension of Stranger Things as well as the flavor of a pineapple upside down cake. We’re blending the comforting taste of vanilla vodka with tropical pineapple juice. Then we layer a striking red splash of grenadine, reminding us that few come back from the Upside Down. As you settle in for the release of part one on November 26, part two on Christmas, and the final episode on New Year’s Eve, mix up this cocktail to savor every last moment (and cross your fingers your fav makes it out alive).
What Happens in Stranger Things Season 5?
The epic finale of Stranger Things is not to be missed. In the fall of 1987 the entire town of Hawkins is under military quarantine as the Upside Down merges with the real world. This last season’s core plot will come full circle as Will Byers (Noah Schnapp) faces his villain again, Eleven (Millie Bobby Brown) heads back into hiding while preparing for the final confrontation, and new character, Dr. Kay (Linda Hamilton) chases after Eleven throughout it all.
With Small Business Saturday on the horizon, TABLE Magazine encourages you to shop local throughout Downtown Beaver.
TABLE believes in the shop local movement for four reasons. First, when you buy local, you support our local economy.
This helps create jobs, boosts local investment in our streetscapes, and builds greater economic resilience.
Second, you will get better, more personal service than Amazon could ever deliver. Our shopkeepers know you. They see you when you’re out to dinner. They wave to you at the grocery. Plus, they know what’s important to you. All of that comes into play every time you enter their spaces.
Third, you will find a host of special and unique products. Outfox the algorithms that direct your online buying with fresh, original choices! Look for the unique, the unusual, the handmade: all of the things you won’t find in big-box stores.
Fourth, it’s healthier for the planet, and for you! All those blue delivery vans and their cardboard boxes take an environmental toll. Reduce the carbon emissions and packaging waste…and get your steps in by walking around town. You’ll feel better, and you’ll know you’ve done just a little for our the planet as well as for our community.
This mother-daughter owned shop carries timeless and trendy pieces that span from outwear to light tees and accessories. They opened Wildwood together to fill a gap in women’s clothing in Beaver. This a great spot to come to elevate your casual fits with new sweaters, sweats, and denim.
Want to make a proper day out of shopping without the guilt of leaving your fur babies home alone for too long? Drop your dog off for a fun day full of exercise and enrichment or keep them looking their best with a spa treatment. They also have training classes and can be your go-to for boarding should you like the daycare experience.
Specifically curated for women 35+, find sophisticated and sexy options at this shop that’s been in business for a whopping eight decades. The store has impressively stayed up-to-date, offering refined options from versatile sweaters to occasion-ready dresses, you’re likely to find a brand you already know and a new favorite, too.
If you’re the type to want the best for your pet, Wags on 3rd gives you a premium place to do your shopping. Find a stock of all-natural, premium food regimens and familiar brands here, plus toys, treats, chews, preventatives, and accessories. The bakery even makes custom cakes for your pet’s next birthday (paw)ty.
Nostalgia in a storefront! Find the retro treat you forgot about years ago or enjoy the newest sweets from around the world. Grandpa Joe’s has it all, from chocolate to hard candy to bubble gum. Even if you don’t have a candy craving, they also carry plenty of unique gifts from wacky delicacies for silly kids to stocker stuffers for someone obsessed with someone oddly specific.
When special occasions happen, ALLAN Jewelers is the hometown master of wedding rings, keepsake jewelry, repairs, and much more. But they do more than the classics and add new offers often. Their Lockt Link Permanent Jewelry, that you can have soldered on in-store, and customizable charm bracelets are perfect examples of non-engagement options.
This funky, yet upscale home and gift shop is a great stop, with a near 5-star rating on Google. You’ll find their own brand of hand-poured 100% soy candles, fragrances, wall decor, musician-inspired coasters, and pantry treats to make a movie night more fun. They bring in a selection of chic holiday goods that stand apart from the typical chain store.
Sisters Diane and Nancy were unhappy with the quality and selection of women’s clothing at big box stores. They set out to solve the problem and have done that for Beaver locals with their sophisticated boutique. Closet staples, seasonal must-haves, and attentive styling and fitting help make this shop a great destination.
A Tasty Bite While You Shop Locally in Downtown Beaver
It’s no surprise that homemade kolaches are a must from this cafe. A seemingly-endless array of sweet and savory options await you. Pair one with a soup or salad and indulge in other desserts. Just don’t forget to grab a cup of their locally roasted coffees and locally sourced teas before you leave.
Get the comfort of a diner with the creativity of a contemporary restaurant at Waffles Incaffeinated, known for their elevated waffle creations and long list of toppings. There are sweet waffles topped with peanut butter, or savory waffles doused in sausage gravy. We love the fried chicken option which has a pecan-infused waffle topped with delicate scallions. Non-waffle fans can find breakfast tacos and classic morning plates.
Classic cravings meet modern staples at this family-owned operation that’s been satisfying locals since 1968. Get their Famous Wooden Angel Lamb Rack for a special night out, or stop in during lunch for a quick Reuben. Uniquely, they feature an all-American wine list with options at a range of price points.
Long a local favorite, the menu offers fresh, exquisitely made Latin fare. Chef/owner Jason Benegasi is the force behind the deliciousness. If you’ve never had a Cuban sandwich, now’s your chance. The menu is small and changed seasonally, so there’s always a reason to check it out beyond the Cuban. Expect a masterfully-curated list of appetizers, entrees, and desserts.
Story by Kylie Thomas Photo Courtesy of Cord + Iron
