Sam Di Battista from Vivo Kitchen shares this simple salad made from the ancient grain farro, along with a handful of kitchen staples you may already have on hand. Sam explains the versatility of this recipe, which allows you to swap out ingredients based on preference and availability.
How to Cook Farro
It’s easy! This ancient grain might sound intimidating, but it shouldn’t be, you’ll find this on most supermarket shelves, and the instructions will be printed right on the package. It cooks much like rice on top of the stove: a little boiling, a little salt, and a little simmer. Follow the instructions, drain and let cool in the refrigerator.
This farro salad from Sam Di Battista combines the hearty ancient grain with black‑eyed peas, thyme, and fresh chilies for a flavorful base. Topped with lime‑pickled red onions and a drizzle of olive oil, it’s a simple, versatile dish that can be adapted with whatever ingredients you have on hand.
Ingredients
Scale
2 cups of farro
1 large Red Onion
1/2 cup of freshly squeezed lime juice
1 can of drained and rinsed black eyed peas
1 bunch of fresh thyme
2 chili peppers, finely sliced.
3 tbs Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Salt
Pepper
Instructions
Finely slice a red onion and toss in a bowl with the fresh lime juice. Cover and refrigerate overnight.
Rinse black eyed peas and set aside.
Remove thyme leaves from the stems.
Finely slice the chili peppers.
In a mixing bowl combine cooled farro, black eyed peas, thyme, freshly sliced chillies and mix together. Add olive oil and salt and pepper to taste. Arrange on plate and top with pickled red onion and serve.
Recipe by Sam Di Battista Story by Justin Matase Styling by Keith Recker Photography by Dave Bryce Videography by Dana Custer and Ariella Furman
We know what you’re thinking. The weather is finally cooling off, the leaves are turning, and you’re wondering where to shop for that quintessential neck scarf or cozy flannel. Thankfully, Pittsburgh is a city that offers a host of boutiques curating fall picks all seasonal long. Each gives us a jump on the opportunity to bring the hottest fall styles right to you so you don’t have to worry about guessing what size will fit right online. Pittsburgh stylist Dominka Bronner is an expert at navigating all these shops and highlights her personal picks for the season. Cheers to an autumn without unflattering returns or sweaters that unravel the second the wind whips up.
Beautifully curated Italian shoes and accessories take center stage at Versilia. From buttery leather bags to elegant footwear, every piece carries a sense of timeless sophistication.
Known for its unique home decor and gift pieces , Golden Beetle offers striking jewelry collections . Everything from Uno de 50’s bold silver designs to Lauren Amble’s playful, layer-ready pieces. It’s jewelry that makes dressing up feel effortless and fun.
Cozy sweaters, well-cut jeans, and fun accessories define Project Angels. The boutique is a go-to for easy, everyday pieces that still carry personality.
This high-end consignment boutique feels like a treasure chest of beautifully curated apparel and accessories. Look out for chic staples and standout handbags waiting to be discovered.
Locally owned and woman-led, Boutique 306 brings in unique pieces with thoughtful details—like Pistola denim—that fit seamlessly into any woman’s wardrobe.
Fall coziness comes alive at Jade. From chocolate-colored oversized cardigans perfect for layering to other comfy seasonal staples, this shop is made for sweater weather.
Stylish and high-quality pieces fill Rue, where you’ll find everything from everyday staples to standout looks. The leather skirt in pine green is a perfect example—a versatile fall piece that can be dressed up or down.
If handmade and high-quality jewelry is what you’re searching for, Suma Jewelry delivers. Their new Oakmont location is a beautifully curated space where creativity and craftsmanship shine.
A true treasure in Lawrenceville, Alma Mercantile is known for its beautifully curated home goods—but their style extends far beyond interiors. Their online shop features cozy knitwear, stunning jewelry, and thoughtfully chosen accessories, making it a one-stop destination for both fashion and lifestyle finds.
For men’s style with a modern edge, Franklin & Mercer Co is a go-to. Their fall edit includes perfectly cut denim, cool jackets, and well-curated accessories that pull any look together. High-quality sweaters and crisp shirts round out the collection, making it a one-stop shop for building a wardrobe that feels both polished and effortless.
Full of charm and personality, Koala Boutique carries pieces that feel truly unique. From fun fall jackets and playful patterns to thoughtful gifts and accessories, it’s a destination where you’ll always find something a little unexpected—and a lot of fun to wear.
Based in Stockholm, Acne Studios is the fashion house for those who love an artsy edge. Known for its sharp attention to detail, elevated fabrics, and thoughtful design, the brand offers ready-to-wear collections and accessories for both men and women. Shopping their online store feels like stepping into a world where creativity meets modern luxury.
Kathryn, the creative mind behind West Raspberry, has a true gift for styling pieces that balance cool confidence with everyday wearability. Her boutique features sleek leather jackets, cozy fall plaids, skirts, and boots—each with a unique twist. Whether you’re hunting for a standout brown leather jacket or easy layering staples, West Raspberry is a go-to for discovering one-of-a-kind finds online.
For those who love a shopping experience that feels fresh and distinctive, Sol Collective .This fall, the standout is their rust-hued set: a wide, flowing shirt paired with wide-leg pants that strike the perfect balance of chic and relaxed. Beyond apparel, Sol Collective carries an incredible shoe collection—like the Plia Amber shoe—that’s the perfect finishing touch for fall. It’s a boutique that brings together style, comfort, and individuality.
As we dive into the fall season of 2025, you’ll want to fill your schedule with theater shows and productions that brighten the lengthening nights. Pittsburgh hosts a number of theater companies and fall is prime time for these theaters to hop into action. We asked Barebones Productions founder Patrick Jordan to give us a run down of your must-see shows starting today and extending to December. Whether it’s a famous work you know and love or something new that you have not heard of before, each production takes you into a creative and memorable world.
City Theatre is known for producing great new works. I am really looking forward to this rolling world premiere that is kicking off in Pittsburgh. The play is bilingual – English and American Sign Language – and will feature both a hearing and Deaf cast and creative team. The play is described as “an epic journey of language, desire, and dreaming.” Kudos to City on this ambitious and important undertaking.
October 14-November 08, CLO, Greer Cabaret Theater
It’s always a blast to do the Time Warp at this time of year and the Greer is a perfect setting to celebrate. CLO has assembled a top notch group of performers including frequent barebones collaborator Connor McCanlus and Broadway vet (plus childhood friend of mine), Matthew Hydzik. The vocals from this cast will have you singing and dancing through Thanksgiving. The CLO has also paired great programming with this production– like drag brunches, college nights, and costume contests.
October 30–November 23, Quantum Theatre, Oxford Centre
Quantum Theatre has been creating dynamic experiences for Pittsburgh audiences for over 30 years and Enron is another huge and ambitious show to add to the long list of offerings this Fall. This work is centered around one of the most infamous scandals in financial history. Mixing classical tragedy with comedy, the play follows a group of flawed men and women in a narrative of greed and loss and free-fall of American capitalism.
Enron features a 14-person cast in Oxford Center in collaboration with Attack Theatre, Pittsburgh’s iconic, risk-taking, cool-as-hell dance company.
November 7-23, Barebones Productions, barebones black box
We’re ending our 22nd season with a banger… and a Tony winner. Not only is God of Carnage timely, but it’s fun, with barebones’ signature bite (still can’t shake those Jaws references after The Shark is Broken). God of Carnage exposes the absurdity bubbling beneath the surface of so-called civilized society. Civility devolves into hysterical chaos – but then you get to leave it, not live it. A welcome escape right now.
I’m excited to perform alongside some of my absolute favorite collaborators and some of the best people and finest actors I know– Daina Griffith, David Whalen, and Gayle Pazerski. The show will be led by our fierce and fearless director, Melissa Martin, a barebones’ favorite. Don’t forget to indulge in the best pub fare, brews, and cocktails in town before and after the show at Braddock Public House, which is quite literally down the hallway from the theater.
December dates & theme announced soon–stay tuned to Bricolage social media channels, barebones black box theater
To say I am partial to Midnight Radio and the Bricolage crew in general would be an understatement. I performed in some of their very first Midnight Radio productions and, most recently, hosted them at our theater in Braddock when they brought back (a super sold-out) Midnight Radio Die Hard N’At for the 2024 Holiday Season. It’s really some of the most fun you can have on or off the stage. Even people who don’t like theater love this production.
We’re encouraging you to support local arts and beyond from October 13-19 with these events throughout the city of Pittsburgh. If you rarely (or never) venture to the Cultural District or take in a local production, you’re missing out on a world of passion, talent, and unforgettable performances. Those who love music, dance, opera, and more will find delight in sitting back in a cushiony, red velvet seat. Just be sure to grab your tickets before these shows sell out.
This musical group has been around for 20 years now, forming a deep bond through a passion for the arts. The current quartet of singers is made up of Urs Bühler (tenor), Sébastien Izambard (tenor), David Miller (tenor), and Steven LaBrie (baritone). String trio Simply Three join these men in a candlelit concert that’ll take you away to magical worlds.
The Black River African Dance Fest features a grand concert on Friday to premier new works at Kelly Strayhorn Theater alongside additional workshops and talks at KST’s Alloy Studios. Then, on Saturday, come shop for African goods at the Black River market plus watch a show, and even take part in interesting classes.
NOTICE: This event has been cancelled due to unforeseen circumstances.
For more than five decades, Canadian Brass has thrilled audiences with their brilliant sound and playful stage presence. Now in their 55th year, this quintet continues to bring fresh energy to every performance. Their Bach arrangements, including the iconic Toccata and Fugue in D Minor, showcase both their virtuosity and their knack for inventive interpretation.
The Pittsburgh Opera brings to life bohemian Paris with an opera that follows four impoverished artists. You’ll see blooming relationships come to life, laugh at the good times, and cry as you connect to these characters. You won’t want to miss this opera. It inspired the famous musical Rent as well as a ballet…and more than a few love stories on small and large screens.
Travel to 1795 Vienna. Hear the young Beethoven announce himself to the world with his bold Opus 1 piano trios. Performed by Alan Choo (violin), Jaap ter Linden (cello), and David Breitman (fortepiano), this program highlights Beethoven’s innovative transformation of the piano trio into a dynamic chamber genre.
Halloween treats to make with kids should be fun for them and easy for you: no complicated techniques, no kitchen disaster. These seven recipes from TABLE’s kitchen fit that bill. Each one gives little hands a real job, from arranging candy faces to lining a pan, and each ends in a spooky, impressive result you’ll be proud to bring to the class party, set out on the Halloween table, or pack up for the trick-or-treaters you most want to wow. Many also put leftover Halloween candy to good use. Put on a spooky movie or playlist, gather your kiddos, and pick your project.
Mint and chocolate isn’t for everyone, but for fans, these Simple Fudgy Peppermint Patty Brownies are paradise. Kids can place the Peppermint Patty pieces in and on the batter, then watch them melt through the oven door. Little helpers will enjoy watching the batter rise and the candies melt. They’ll enjoy the results even more. With a glass of cold milk!
This no-bake Twix cake looks far more impressive than the effort required, and it’s a smart way to use up leftover Halloween candy. Put your kiddo to work lining the pan with graham crackers while you whip up the pudding mixture. Then spread the frosting together and cover the whole top with Twix bars. The freezer does the rest.
If you want something kids will be proud to hand around to friends, start here. These Monster Rice Krispie Treats come in fun colors, and each one becomes its own character, decorated with googly eye candies, candy corn, and frosting. No two look alike, so they make great conversation pieces among friends. Just don’t forget to name your monsters before you dig in: Mike, Ike, and Spike!
Best for:the party table and anyone who wants big impact for little effort
Premade pie dough does the heavy lifting in these Halloween Pumpkin Pastries. Kids help cut the dough into thin, long strips and wrap them over the pumpkin filling to make a pumpkin-filled mummy, then add googly eyes on top. The recipe uses only eight ingredients (googly eyes included), so you get a plate of adorable pastries that look like you fussed all afternoon.
Best for:trick-or-treat night, party favors, and picky eaters
Every kid gets their own corner of the bark to decorate, so nobody argues about flavors. Finely chop each child’s favorite candies, then let them customize their section with different colors of chocolate. The result is a colorful smorgasbord that breaks into shareable pieces, which makes it easy to bag up as a party favor or a special treat for the trick-or-treaters you know best.
Best for:school, parties, and wrapped-up trick-or-treat treats
Kids love ooey, gooey, sticky projects, and these green slime monsters deliver. Similar to Rice Krispie Treats, the recipe uses marshmallows to hold together popcorn and pretzel sticks. Roll the mixture into a popcorn ball, stick in pretzel sticks for arms, and add the essential googly eyes. Each monster is its own single serving, so they’re easy to pass out at school, pile on a party table, or wrap individually for trick-or-treaters.
This last recipe is a bit tricky for tiny hands, but the frosting step is where kids shine. These Pumpkin Cheesecake Cookies have a hint of pumpkin and spice with a creamy cheesecake surprise in the center. After they bake and cool, let your kids decorate each one with a frosting pumpkin on top. Challenge your family to make pumpkins in every shade, plus a few jack-o’-lanterns, to keep the fun flowing.
Best Halloween Treats for School, Parties, and Trick-or-Treaters
Before you bake for a crowd, check your school’s or classroom’s policy on homemade treats, since many have rules about ingredients and allergies. Wrap treats individually for trick-or-treaters, and consider adding a small tag listing the ingredients so parents know what’s inside. Let kids handle the placing, stirring, and decorating while you take care of the oven and the sharp knives. Want more ideas? Browse TABLE’sCooking with Kids recipes.
It can be real challenge to put a nice meal on the table during a busy week, let alone something with big flavors. Enter the sheet pan dinner! Nothing fancy here. Just a few ingredients, a single pan, and a short time in the oven. From oven to plate, your weeknight meal is simplified with this timesaving recipe. The only additional step is to uncork a beautiful Verdelho and pour yourself a glass or two. You deserve it!
Sheet Pan Roasted Shrimp, Clams, Asparagus & Leeks Recipe
The Pittsburgh dining scene finds a friend in Chef Roger Li, a culinary force with a portfolio of popular establishments around the city. From the izakaya-style Umami to the celebrated Allegheny Wine Mixer, his impact is undeniable. Even The Parlor Dim Sum marks a return to his roots, showcasing traditional Cantonese cooking with his signature modern flair. We’re asking him to delve into the places that keep him coming back for me, offering a unique perspective on the city’s food landscape. Get ready to explore the hidden gems and local favorites that have earned a place in Chef Roger Li’s heart, and learn where you should head for dinner next.
I might be a little biased… but The Parlor Dim Sum delivers an all-around experience. From fresh made dim sum to dishes full of “breath of the wok,” there’s not a bad choice to pick. The menu offers a shareable dining experience that is perfect for all occasions. Not to mention, it’s also my kids favorite place to dine.
This place is our go to place if we are craving Indian food. I love the flavors and the variety of classic dishes at Swaagat. The food and service are both very comforting overall.
As the crisp autumn air descends upon Pittsburgh, a different kind of magic fills the city: Halloween! Beyond the traditional haunts and pumpkin patches, the Steel City’s arts scene awakens with an array of performances to celebrate the spooky season. Spine-tingling scores set a gothic mood to captivating choreography that brings legendary tales to life as Pittsburgh’s stages offer a thrilling escape for those seeking to be enchanted. Whether you love to haunting melodies or dramatic storytelling, there are plenty of theatrical and musical events waiting to cast a unique spell on you this Halloween.
You’ve seen the movies, now see the musical adaptation of all three Evil Dead movies in one fantastic, bloody explosion. This hilarious show follows Ash, your average housewares salesman who is now hunting down demons. Laugh along to songs like All the Men in My Life Keep Getting Killed by Candarian Demons and What the F**k Was That? as you comfort yourself with the spookier side of Halloween. Just be cautious, there is a splash zone and you will get wet if you so dare!
Before there was The Rocky Horror Picture Show movie, there was The Rocky Horror Show musical. See this cult classic come to life right before your eyes as Dr. Frank-N-Furter lures good kids Brad and Janet into a world of aliens, cannibalism, and sex alongside his special (and slightly strange) colleagues. Be ready to do the Time Warp and be seduced from start to finish as the Pittsburgh CLO honors this famous musical.
Point Park alumnus Ahmad Simmons and Lazlo Graves create a family-friendly Halloween musical bash that’ll have all ages happy to head to the theater. This adventure features all your favorite creatures in an exciting and entertaining production. You’ll hum and dance along in your seat as stunning costumes and fantastic vocals take the stage.
Immerse yourself in a gothic daydream inside the gorgeous Trinity Episcopal Cathedral. The crew lines the entire church with real candles to light up an enchanting string quartet. Take a seat and relax to all your favorite Halloween hits. Hear tunes such as songs from The Nightmare Before Christmas, The Rocky Horror Picture Show, horror movie themes, and famous orchestral pieces that leave a haunting tone in your evening.
If your child or even yourself are lovers of The Nightmare Before Christmas, then you need to experience the track in person with a live orchestra. The Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra presents the film The Nightmare Before Christmas alongside their beautiful live music soundtrack. Watch this Halloween classic in an unforgettable way that not only is magical for children but is enjoyable for the adults too.
Step into the Phantom’s secret candlelit lair inside Heinz Chapel for a haunting night of music from Heinz Chapel Organist, Jon Tyillian along with guest singers Sarah Nadler and Logan Newman. Not only will you hear selections from films like The Phantom of the Opera but you’ll also feel the tingling undertones of Toccata and Fugue by Bach. It’s a way to dive into the Halloween spirit in a peaceful setting.
You may know Dracula on the big screen but do you know him in Michael Pink’s ballet? This version of Dracula is an enchanting, sexy, and eerie ballet of the classic story you know and love. Pittsburgh Ballet Theater pairs a wonderful score from Philip Feeney with special effects that transport you straight to Transylvania. You’ll find yourself lost in the smooth moves and captive expressions of these evocative dancers.
Chef Alekka Sweeney is a culinary expert and private chef with a passion for creating accessible and delicious food. Her repertoire showcases a wide range of recipes, from gourmet meals to everyday delights. As a self-described “big kid,” Alekka is able to understand the importance of getting children excited about what they eat. With her “big kid” philosophy, she develops recipes that are not only nutritious and easy to make but also fun for the whole family to cook together. We’re recapping some of the best kid-friendly recipes she’s developed for TABLE. They offer parents and caregivers a fresh perspective on how to make mealtime an adventure that every kid will love.
Kid-Friendly Recipes for Lunch, Dinner, and Beyond by Chef Alekka Sweeney
Skewering meat and making a sauce from peanut butter are two of the most interesting things to a child. Get the kids involved with this recipe by showing them each step along the way. The inclusion of coconut milk, curry powder, and soy sauce also gets kids trying new ingredients without making it a big deal.
Lunch doesn’t have to be a complex soup or pasta dish. Instead it can be as simple as a Turkey and Granny Smith Apple Sandwich. Encourage your children to make unique food choices by pairing the crunch of apple slices with soft bread and turkey. Who knows what combinations they’ll be making on their own after.
There’s no need to pack popsicles full of sugar whenever they can come from natural ingredients instead. Simply pick the family’s favorite fruits and transform them into something no member of the household will refuse. These Paleta Popsicles also work well in an adult cocktail hour: just pour yourself a very light vodka and soda, and pop a paleta into it.
This homemade version of an empanada allows for store-bought pie crust, making the special recipe easy-as-pie. Crispy shells hold a warm and delicious filling of sweet potatoes and black beans that’s nutritious too. Throw them in a sandwich baggie for your child’s lunch or maybe even make a few extra for your own lunch bag too.
Slightly sweet and utterly refreshing, Agua Fresca is another great way to get the kiddos asking for fresh fruits over soda. This fruit water is perfect for those warmer days. You can also use this recipe as a chance to teach the kids how to use the blender so that they’ll be making their own smoothies and shakes before you know it.
Snacks can be enjoyed without guilt whenever you upgrade healthier options like popcorn. This Chili-Lime Popcorn is a little spicy with hints of citrusy lime from your own spice mix. Plus, all you need is two ingredients: lime juice and chili powder to make this late-night treat.
Another healthy snack is to opt for a freshly made salsa. For this recipe, Chef Alekka chops peaches, tomatoes, onion, jalapeños, and cilantro, combining these ingredients with corn fresh off the cob and lime juice. In case you want to make this recipe even better for you, try this salsa with whole wheat tortilla chips.
Tuna salad sandwiches don’t have to be the same each and every day. Shake things up by making this White Bean Tuna Salad Wrap instead. These White Bean Tuna Salad Wraps don’t get soggy, provide a balance of protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats, and are just all-around-appealing. You can’t go wrong with something that’s handheld for kids either.
Every child loves a lunch of Alphabet Soup where you can spell whatever word you please with your noodles. Rather than rely on the classic canned version, Chef Alekka uses fresh produce alongside the most delicious spices. You can even have a spelling competition at the table to make dinnertime fun!
Get ready to be inspired by Chef Jackie Page! This Pittsburgh culinary force brings heart and soul to every dish she creates. A talented chef, Page graduated from culinary school at age 47. Afterward, she founded Jackie’s Catering, proving it’s never too late to follow your dreams. Her cooking style, which she describes as American Soul, expresses her philosophy of providing “healthy deliciousness” to all. Her recipes reflect her passion and community spirit. They’re sure to satisfy your cravings as well as warm your heart with every flavorful bite. Check out her comfort food recipes below. They are perfect for every day family dinner or for filling the table with delights during the holiday season.
Chef Jackie Page’s recipe for jambalaya is an authentic nod to a staple of traditional Louisiana cuisine. Like the Creole culture of Louisiana, jambalaya is a mixture of French, African, and Spanish cuisine. This is a Cajun style jambalaya, free of tomatoes and more in line with the cooking style of rural lowlands of Louisiana than that of the city center.
Gumbo has a long and rich history in the South. There are two variations, Creole Gumbo and Cajun Gumbo. This seafood gumbo lacks the tomatoes that are part of Creole jumbo. However, it does have okra, which most Cajun gumbo does not. It’s made Louisiana-style with seafood stock, sausage, chicken, shrimp, crab, as well as vegetables, served over rice for a flavorful, filling meal.
Unlike many recipes, this Corn Pudding Cakes recipe avoids added sugar to let the natural sweetness of the corn shine through. Just the right combination of flour, cornmeal, and egg, creates a firm bake that holds its shape well enough to then use cookie cutters for fun shapes, or a biscuit cutter for classic round cakes. Not to mention, you can make it vegan too with a few adjustments.
This hearty, flavorful braciole is a wonderful dish for sharing during the dismal, cold winter days after the holidays have ended. Chef Jackie Page forms delicious beef rolls filled with prosciutto, breadcrumbs, and cheese, cooked slowly in tasty broth and tomatoes. Try her take on this Italian recipe this winter.
Bored with basic spinach and bacon quiches? The distinct nuttiness of the Jarlsberg with the sweetness of the lump crab meat delivers a 5-star flavor with every luxurious bite of this quiche recipe by Chef Jackie Page. Serve it for breakfast with fresh seasonal fruits, or later in the day, from brunch through dinner, with a tossed green salad.
Sweet potatoes make for a delicious holiday side dish and we have a new way of cooking these bundles. Chef Jackie Page takes thick slices of sweet potato drizzled with butter and baking spices, then sets them in the oven for a half hour. Its earthy undertones as well as a bit of natural sweetness create an aroma that can’t be beat.
