BarSmart User Reviews

Peter's Pub

University of Pittsburgh Greeks, you've found your frat house! Peter's Pub located at 116 Oakland Avenue has been a long time favorite of Panther frats and sororities. Like many bars in Oakland the downstairs drinking area is a bit cramped, but unlike many of the other Oakland bars Peter's Pub has a spacious upstairs area with another bar and a stage for live music.The beer selection here isn't all that great, most patrons usually have a miller or bud lite bottle in hand. I, being a fan of higher quality draft beer was disappointed to see not too much of a draft selection. I was even more irked at the prices; Peter's Pub is one of the more expensive bars in Oakland.Peter's has a number of gimmick nights to draw in customers. Country night seems to be a favorite, but since I'm not much of a country fan it didn't really thrill me. Anyways, what the music industry seems to market as country these days sounds a lot more of pop rock with a banjo. Though the live entertainment on certain nights includes many local live bands, Peter's Pub usually charges a cover. The cover is all that expensive, but it's just the fact that other bars in Oakland tend to not ask for a cover charge which annoys me. In many ways it seems like Peter's Pub has seemed to confuse itself with a type of bar that is usually found in the South Side. I have no problem with South Side bars, many of them are great places, but it's more of the fact that Peter's Pub just doesn't fit into the neighborhood of Oakland. Instead of being a refreshing change of pace, it seems to merely be a classic college bar posing as something hipper. ((Check my user profile for a link to my blog with even more bar reviews))

View more Info about this bar at Barsmart

Garage Door Saloon

Garage Door Saloon located at 223 Atwood Street has been in business for about 3 years. Before, at the same location, was the underage hang-out of Cumpies and then some strange death metal rock scene. Rising from the previous two failures came the emergence of the Garage Door Saloon.At first I thought this place had lots of potential, but as time passed it is obvious the ownership has not capitalized. It is by far the most spacious bar in Oakland and even has the capacity of 3 separate bars inside, but usually only the front one is open for service. This becomes a problem, especially on weekends during the school year, because the front room is just not that spacious. Patrons pack around the small island bar so tightly that it becomes impossible to move around.One thing the front room does have going for it is the big garage door style windows that are pulled up during the warmer months letting in the warm summer night. If you are lucky enough to find a seat by one of these windows it can really make for a pleasant night for drinking. The only negative about these windows seems to be in the winter months when they let in a frigid draft turning the Garage Door Saloon into an icebox.The overall decor is a bit dingy, I would go even as far to say dirty, but in this case seems to work. Bare cement block walls are exposed covered with various neon light beer advertisements. In the back room metallic stools and tables are a nice touch. The floor is also made out of some black metallic substance but at certain sections is quite uneven, so watch your step. Garage Door Saloon also boasts a dart board and two pool tables in the back. One of my favorite things about this bar was the men's bathroom which became a haven for art work and absolutely hilarious statements written in black permanent marker all over the white walls, but at some point ownership thought it better to paint over this genius. Finally, the Jukebox has a good selection of music, but it is hardly ever played loud enough to hear it.The quality of drinks is the point where this bar takes a turn for the worse. The beer selection is pretty bad (although the last time I stopped by I saw they actually put a few micro-brews on tap) and the prices for domestics are a bit higher then most other places in Oakland. The fact that a craptacular product such as Coors Light is the beer always on special annoys me even more. Mixed drinks, though cheap, are quite weak. So if you are looking to get plastered on liquor then be prepared to go though a bunch of them. Shots are also expensive and are served in the mini plastic shot glasses which pisses me off.The staff at Garage Door is average. The bartenders are professionals and know their craft but at times are slow. On the weekends a cop is always employed near the side door since at times the crowd can get a little rough.Overall, the Garage Door Saloon isn't a bad place but it really could be so much more if the right things were done. The crowd is mostly a college scene, but local old timers also stop by for a drink or ten. I still will show up at this place from time to time so it isn't exactly on my crap list, but it isn't one of my favorite places in Oakland.

View more Info about this bar at Barsmart

Spice Cafe

Located at 328 Atwood street in south Oakland directly beneath India Garden, Spice Cafe has successful broken the mold of cliche college bar. Though it remains a favorite of many college students the overall patronage is actually quite diverse. Most of Spice Cafe's business comes from drinkers in their late to early 20's but it is not uncommon to see a group of middle age adults stop by from time to time during the day.The square footage is a bit on the low side so on weekends, especially during the school year, it can get a little packed. Thursday night's during karaoke is particularly crowded. Spice Cafe's limited size is rectified by a large bar area and extremely diligent staff. The bartenders are some of the fastest and attentive I've seen anywhere in the city making sure waiting time for drinks is short even on crowded nights. The mood is cosy with dark lighting and candles on the tables.The mixed drinks here are strong. Extremely strong. I'm not joking when I tell you drinking more than one of their Frozen Long Island Iced Teas ($4.50 during late night happy hour) may quite possibly get you in trouble with the law. My roommate in college had two such run-ins with the Pitt Police after drinking their Long Island's. Even the other well drinks ($1.25 during specials, $2.50 otherwise) are not short on liquor. The rum and coke is practically a glass of rum with a shot of coke. If shots are your thing, you won't find a better price on shots anywhere in the city.Spice Cafe's beer selection is also quite good, but not the best in the neighborhood. The selection of bottles is limited but is made up for by the beers on draft. Though the draft selection changes by season but it usually consists of some high-end imports ($3.25 for a pint during late night happy hour, $4.25 otherwise), some obscure and regional micro-brews (between $2.25 and $3.25), and a selection of domestics ($1.25-$2.25 for a pint).Food is available until 11PM and is fairly priced but the quality is mediocre at best. I'm no food critic, but many of the entrees seem to be overly seasoned, overpowering the food. But if you are hungry and inebriated it still hits the spot.What makes Spice Cafe stand out from many of the other bars in Oakland is its live entertainment, boasting never a cover charge. Live music is preformed on selected Fridays along with arguably the best karaoke night in the neighborhood on Thursday. The bands preforming are well selected and quite talented playing a mix of classic covers and 90's music along with numerous original songs. Even on nights without live music the Jukebox holds an ecliptic mix of tunes from Dylan to Sublime which, from what I've noticed, seems to suit the patron's tastes. Other entertainment includes a dart board though waits for its use are sometimes quite lengthy.Overall, Spice Cafe is a great place for someone who is looking for a low-key night out on the town. The prices can't be beat and the staff and patrons are some of the friendliest I've come across in the city. It is a great choice for a young college grad looking to stay away from some more of the hardcore college student scenes. When I drink in Oakland, this is usually where I end up.((Check out my user profile for the link to my blog for some of my other bar reviews))

View more Info about this bar at Barsmart

Hemingway's Cafe

If there is a bar that totally identifies with and even cherishes the fact it is a full blown college hang out, it is Hemingway's located at 3911 Forbes Avenue in Oakland. Its central location on the Pitt Campus draws a very young crowd looking to have a good time without traveling too far.Though Hemingway's has some great specials (daily $1 beers, all day long) and a stellar beer selection, the set-up of this bar reduces its appeal. It is narrow to begin with and coupled with an awkward raised seating area spanning the middle complicates patron mobility. On a busy night it often takes five minutes to walk from the front to the back of the bar. Hemingway's has a pool table and dart board located in the back, but they are squeezed into a room entirely too small often making a game of billiards an unpleasant experience.One aspect Hemingway's really has going for it is its staff. The same bartenders have been working here for as long as I can remember and they are good at what they do. Fast and efficient, even when the bar is at full capacity, they never short you on liquor in your mix drinks. Hemingway's also employs a number of wait staff to take food and drink orders and are a convenient option on packed nights.The food here is not bad, and come between 9 and 11 and entrees are half off. Options from wraps, to burgers, to pasta dishes highlight the menu.The decor at Hemingway's is unique. Thousands of framed pictures of drunk college bar-goers cover every wall; a fitting choice for a college bar. It never gets old laughing at all the drunkards pictured here.In conclusion, I think this bar is most suited for the newly turned 21 crowd. When you get a littler older, especially after graduation from college, the patronage here seems a bit juvenile. That being said, if you're looking for a cheap night out and some decent bar food for a great price then stop by Hemingway's. ((Check out my user profile for some of my other bar reviews))

View more Info about this bar at Barsmart

Gunny's Lounge

If your from town it's a fun place to go and get drunk. You always see someone you know here. The wings are really good.. a little expensive but good. Salads are huge and excellent. Bar tenders are really nice but can be lazy. Prices are definatly high. I've noticed that when i buy and download songs on the jukebox they always get erased and i've heard that the owner does this on purpose. the jukebox price is high also. I'll be coming back to this bar. But not untill pay week.

View more Info about this bar at Barsmart

Wyo's Pub

I've gone to this bar a couple of times. It's a very small bar. The small kitchen is out in the open in the corner of the rectangle bar. Most bars with a kitchen have the 'bar food smell' but I've found that at this place, it's very overwelming. During one of my visits I had to keep moving my bar stool because i was basically sitting in the kitchen, and in the way of the cook.The drink prices for drafts are great, but for the shots I take, I feel they were a little high for a place like this. The chicken wings are good. Not the best in town but good. The pizza crust is a little stale. Cheese Balls were good as well as the poppers. Everything else i've tried wasn't that good. The chicken fingers are really thin and tasted old and reheated. The fish sandwich was huge, but taste wise, i'd give it a 5 out of ten. A couple of the few bar tenders that work there are nice. The one (on more than one occasion) acted as if she was bothered to do her job and took her time with drinks. Overall the look and feel of Wyos was a small bar for a small town, welcoming and nice, but after a while of being there it kind of changes. The crowd that gathers there isn't of the greatest repuation, and it seems that the employees and well as managment do a little more gossiping about customers and each other than anything else. I have brought a few of my friends here, because like i said i've been to this bar on more than one occation, but i won't be making another night of this bar and the fact I smell like I've jumped into a fryer when I leave isn't the only reason. It's the type of bar I will go back to when I'm already drunk and want to stay local, or to maybe order chicken wings when the other places are closed.When recomending bars Wyos is not in my top five.

View more Info about this bar at Barsmart

Calico Jack's

I first found this place a few months ago and gave it rave reviews; I was especially found of the $1 Corona specials on Friday night. The rave reviews have since stopped. Not once, not twice, but three times (I know fool me once... but $1 Coronas come on) I have checked ahead (twice on the phone once in person) to see if the $1 Corona special was in effect for a given Friday. With each check, they reassured me the special was still on, however when I arrived the special was no place to be found despite giant signs all over the bar. In their defense the waitresses seemed clueless to the entire thing (although they did nothing to try to appease the situation), which only reinforces what a poorly run establishment this restaurant continues to be. It is shame such a nice location has to be ruined with poor management, and a basic lack of communication

View more Info about this bar at Barsmart

Barroom

I have been to BarRoom a few times now, and the only issue I have ever had was with the VIP. Getting in there was a pain because the guys at the door would not even look to see if our names were on the list (which they were), once in there we ventured to our table which was all very nice at first, then the herds of people moved in and the VIP became the most annoying place the be. The bouncers let anyone and everyone in there, isn't one of the perks of paying for bottle service to have some extra room without worrying if someone will knock drinks over? Which is what ended up happening.The bar is very nice, and for being attached to Saddle the bathroom line goes surprising quickly. I'll go back again I'm sure, I just definitely won't buy a bottle and waste my time with the VIP.

View more Info about this bar at Barsmart

Barroom

I've only been to Barroom on Sunday nights for SIN night, so that is what I am basing this review on. I heard that it's miserable on the weekends because it's "too busy", but that's a good problem to have and I can see why they are having it. The place is layed out perfectly. They made such good use of the space they have. For starters, they put up a tent on the sidewalk for the cashier to collect the cover charge. Then, you go up the steps and enter the "bungalow" which looks very roomy and comfortable. It has a great view of the city and it is CLASSY. Yes, for once someone took an outside space and made it classy. The inside of the club is just as classy as the outside. They picked nice power colors to brighten the place up (red/white/black) and even put it a dropped dancefloor. YES! Finally someone realized dance floors look better low instead of raised above the crowd. As for the drinks, they were strong and right on point. They were out of Miller Lite, which was disappointing, but since it was a Sunday they were probably just ran out from the weekend.Now for the downsides. 1) I have no idea how the "barroom" crowd gets along with the "saddle ridge" crowd, but I am guessing that could be an issue since they share the same bathroom. Good thing is the bathrooms were big and attended. I also heard they have security there on the weekends. 2) I think the club could use an HD projector hanging from the ceiling somewhere. The ydo have a good number of LCD screens, but they are a little tough to see when you are on the dancefloor. 3) The sound system sucks. I hate to say it, but it does. It sounds good on the dancefloor but that's because the speakers shoot directly down on you. I don't really want to get into how they can fix this problem, but it is a problem that can and needs to be fixed.With all that said, I give them a 9. Why not a 10? Simply because of the sound system. If you are ever in need to feel as though you are in Vegas, hit up Barroom and they'll take ya there!

View more Info about this bar at Barsmart

Wilkie's Inn

Wow, very surprised to see this place get a 7 rating after I decided to finally stop in to this location. The prices cannot be beat for the area and the service was quick but this is not my kind of establishment. The draft beer was cold and my shot glass was over flowing.I do not know if they serve food here, but I would not eat anything from this location that was not prepackaged somewhere else.I had trouble understanding the bartender and he seems more accustomed to drinkers who have been there previously. Once I found out what he had he was quick to get my drinks and change.This location could from some cleaning products, elbow grease, and a fresh coat of paint. Two patrons in a back booth seemed to be having a "grand old time" that I hope was alcohol induced.I may come back if I am in need to get a good amount of booze in my system for a low cost but I do not see that happening anytime soon.I was hesitant to even go into the location at all because of a minor incident about a year ago. As I was approaching the ATM across the street from this location, a "regular joe" (a.k.a. local yinzer) was coming out of the Wilkie's Inn. He too was going to use the ATM. As I was using it he made small chat about the nice weather we were having and about how his "old lady" was going to give him grief for drinking. I just responded with the usual "yupp" replies. After a brief moment of silence he asked me "Hey you driving? Good money involved.". To which I can only imagine involved a road trip to some unsavory neighborhoods to meet some interesting people. I quickly finished my transaction and took a different route home.

View more Info about this bar at Barsmart

Al's Cafe

Id like to start with a positive, and compliment the bartenders and servers. They where very kind to us and worked so hard to accomadate my friends and I. For context I will set up the scenirio. The month was May. About 15 frineds who used to frequent ALs back in the day of bands and live events while we where in our 20's, decide to all bring our spouses for a get together at ALS to just catch up. So there was 30 of us total. We decided to split in small groups for dinner and meet at the bar after.We placed our orders to friendly servers. Some in our group where able to get what they ordered. One of our tables was told since they where part of group there selection would be limited.(not sure why that mattered since we split off to seperate tables). So some in our group all had to order the same thing. Again the servers where apologitic and embarassed. I assume this was a managers decision. So it would had been appropriate for the manager to explain why everyone in the place got to order what they wanted, other than 10 people that where there with us. At this point, it was a minor annoyance. The meals themselves where average at best, I was one of the lucky ones who got what they ordered. My wife and I got about $30 worth of food. My wife is 5'4" 127, and she thought the proportions where small. Myself 5'10" 200, was left still hungry. I know that sounds bad, but the amount a fries I got, was compable to a happy meal serving of fries. At this point a minor annoyance. We where having fun, the wives where floating around showing baby pics. Dinner over!!! Time to loosen up, thats why where there.We reached the bar, and most in the group got trashed as planed. It was later in the evening so there where not many people there other than us. We where behaved not loud or out of hand. Like I said most got served an over abundance of thier favorite cocktail. Not the bartenders or servers, but the manager had decided to stop serving to 3 of us. One was a female, she had NOT ONE drink yet. And when she ordered her first drink was told, the manager felt she reached her limit. She was embarassed, but didnt make a big deal of it. The bartender was embarassed at this pointas well. Her husband who had a couple of drinks, asked to speak with the manager for an explanation. He was a lil loud, being upset that his wife was now embarassed. The bartender returned to say that he now was cut off. So it turned into a joke. Since we didnt even know who the person was. A third person was cut off at the managers discretion about 20 minutes later. Yes it was a designated driver. The manager felt this person had to many. I see how the mistake could be made, cause the person had a tab open and ordered shots and beers for differnt people. This was now funny. The two others who had been cut off decide to stay becaue, we all kept ordering them drinks and handing it to them. Again we behaved. We had our fun...and left. Well not all of us, 4 of us stayed to last call. Word got around that these four closed the place down and didnt remember the drive home and should had been cut off way before the sober people. These chanin of events where no big deal, until my friends wife sent some photos of the night to me. We talked about how fun it was. But she was the one who got cut off before even starting. She explained how embarassed she was that night...and felt humiliated, hecause it was the first time she met alot of the other spouses, and now she thought they are going to think she is drunk etc......so I told her I would write a review.The final assesment is, that once a great place to hang out with geat food. Has fallen to the likes of a dive bar, but with out the cheap prices or friendly armosphere a dive bar has. We have also started a lil boycott. But we wouldnt had gone back anyway. Thats just for fun.

View more Info about this bar at Barsmart

Hough's Restaurant

love this place...great people...beautiful inside...altough the outside could look more inviting...lights are a little dim from the outside and wasnt sure if it was open or not but when we went in, it was gorgeous... I kicked this down to 9 since this otherwise would have been the second rejected review.See for details. -Chewie

View more Info about this bar at Barsmart

Sieb's Pub

My first experience in Siebs Irish Pub was a good one. I like how it is conveniently located right on Babcock Boulevard. Second, the parking lot is huge and well lit. The place is more than a Pub. They actually have rooms that you can rent for parties and conferences or meetings. To get to the pub you go left. The rooms are to the right. I loved the design of the bar. It wraps around the room and it is made out of solid Oak. There are several small 4 seater tables in the bar area and a separate dining room. Like most Irish pubs, it is more on the quaint side but very appealing to the eye.Another plus, they hire irish entertainers for example Terry Griffith was there Saturday night. His music is the kind that you can curl up to and listen to all night. It's true...I live nowhere near the North Hills but I'd drive 500 miles to see Terry! Our band celebrated our gig that afternoon by coming out to see Terry. Why? Because we love Irish music and Terry and we heard Siebs was a nice place!I tried the "Americanized" Shepherd's pie and it was good. One day somebody is going to make it like it is supposed to be made, with lamb. I'm not complaining though. It was good! The beer selections were pretty much the norm. Guinness, Smithwicks, Murphy's Stout, etc.The restrooms were clean and conveniently located. The owners added a personal touch by placing pictures of their family on a table. I have never seen that personal touch in any establishment I've ever been in. I am not sure what Siebs used to be before an Irish Pub, but I'll leave that up to you. I'd be curious to know your thoughts. Right now, I give Siebs two thumbs up for a pleasant "Irish Pub" experience.

View more Info about this bar at Barsmart

Timberwood Grille & Pub

What a nice little quiet bar out of the way. The owner Troy is a super nice guy and very friendly. Every time we have been there the people are so nice it just makes you want to go back. We haven't eaten here yet, but the homemade pizza looks very good, the salads are huge and the wings smell fantastic. Beer is always cold and cheaper than most other places in the area. Nice little local gem!! I will post again once we have our first meal there. Probably give it a shot this weekend.

View more Info about this bar at Barsmart

Cafe Allegro

I cannot believe that Cafe Allegro has remained UNREVIEWED here on Barsmart until now.It is unfortunate that this is my first Barsmart review, because I'm not allowed to dispense a "10" rating. Therefore, I might be forced to invent a negative about this Pittsburgh treasure. Is it possible to give a 9.99%? If so, that's my rating.Out of a handful of Pittsburgh restaurants that are truly "fine dining", I put Cafe Allegro at the top of the list.The food is wonderful, creative, and expertly prepared. The menu is small but adequate, and changes regularly to provide variety while allowing the chefs to maintain such a high level of quality with each dish.Their signature calamari appetizer is amazing, as is the smoked trout which is made in-house. Entrees include delicious roasted lamb or veal options, and at least one steak, and a number of fish/seafood dishes. I have yet to try the bouillabaise, but look forward to it soon.I've also had a risotto there that was without peer, and their vegetable platter (served in family-style proportions) is outstanding. I have grown particularly fond of the grilled beets.The service I've recieved in my several visits has always been polite, attentive, helpful and APPRECIATIVE. Never impatient or "snooty".The place itself is not large, but it affords you a bit more space than the other restaurants at the top of my "list". You will not feel confined or crowded, and I've never found the place to be anything less than immaculate.The cost? Well, it's by no means a cheap place to eat, but I consider it quite a value considering the quality and CONSISTENCY of the product. If you are a college student scouring the city for drink specials, this is probably not the place for you, but for a more established individual looking for a treat, this is the place. Expect a dinner for two with drinks, appetizers and dessert to run you in the neighborhood of $100+.Parking's not bad. Cafe Allegro is just off of Carson St near Jack's Bar, and there is a parking lot a half-block away.I have not yet tested the full abilities of the bartender, since I've only ordered wine with my dinners there. So if I'm to even speculate on a negative, it's that MAYBE they cannot make a textbook sazerac, or that they shake their martinis... but that would be pure speculation. In fact, I'm sure they'll make your martini however you ask.Cafe Allegro is the standard by which other Pittsburgh restaurants should be judged.

View more Info about this bar at Barsmart

Redbeards Mountain Resort

The food was ok, but the service was horrible. I've never heard of being over the age of 21 and being denied an alcoholic beverage. Due to there policy that if you are having a meal with anyone under the age of the legal drinking age you yourself will not be served. How ridiculous is that. Not only was i denied a mixed drink but it was nearly impossible to get a refill on my Pepsi. It has a nice atmosphere especially outside, that is if you can get a table out there. Also the womens bathroom is a tad bit small, only having two stalls and one pillar sink.

View more Info about this bar at Barsmart

The Capital Grille

My girlfriend and I went to Capital Grill for dinner and it was certainly an experience. Everything about Capital Grill screams EXCELLENCE, and you notice it at every step of the meal.We went Monday evening, and I expected it to be slow, however, it was packed. My girlfriend was smart enough to make a reservation and thank god she did; because I'm glad I didn't miss this experience. We arrived 15 minutes after our reservation was for and the hostess' were eager to seat us, having no problem with our tardiness. Once inside, the room was dim, without the feeling of being dark. The entire place is draped in lush reds and dark hardwoods. A soft light resonates over the dining room from the massive kitchen that is enclosed in glass where the master chefs place together Capitals version of the perfect meals. The walls are clad with prints of Pittsburgh greats such as Andrew Carnegie and Clayton Frick. If we were enjoying this evening in the early 20th century I somehow feel that this is the place that the aforementioned would certainly be dining at. After being seated our waiter Dan was swift to welcome us and bring us up to speed on the evening's specials, which were so many that I cant possibly, remember now. Dan also was able to suggest a martini for my girlfriend while we breezed the wine and dinner menus. After agreeing on the Prosciutto wrapped Mozzarella with vine ripe tomatoes appetizer, we opted for a bottle of merlot to share. Immediately after ordering our appetizer and another waiter swung in and offered us some bread, there were four different kinds, pumpernickel being the one I remember because that's what I had the most of. Within moments our bottle of merlot showed up and it was perfectly fine. Within about 10 minutes our appetizer showed up and dinner was under way! The Prosciutto wrapped Mozzarella and Tomatoes were excellent with the wine, the Prosciutto was salted perfectly and the Tomatoes and Mozzarella set it off flawlessly. We also ordered the Lobster Bisque and Caesar Salad. The Lobster Bisque was decent but not great, although I would order it again and the Caesar Salad was also just fine. We were not in any way disappointed, just use to ordering the same thing at all the high end restaurants we go to for dinner. We were given ample time to enjoy our appetizers and soups and salads and let our food settle a little before our main course came out, something that doesn't often occur at other establishments; whether it was just the perfect timing, or if it was good planning on Capital Grills part, will have to be determined on a soon to be second visit. Thereafter came our dinner. She ordered the filet with a side of asparagus and I ordered the evening main course special; filet with lobster and smashed potatoes. Hers was cooked medium well as requested and scattered with mushrooms and sprinkled with light gravy. She said it was cooked exactly to her liking. As for me, my filet was cooked medium rare, and oh so perfectly it was done. The lobster was juicy, but not saturated, and melted in my mouth. The potatoes were also decent, so good in fact that I took a side order home for dinner the next day. The one complaint I would have is the lack of lobster. The lobster that came with the meal was not a tail, it was more like someone pulled the meat from inside the claws and legs and body of the thing. None the less, it was still excellent, I just wish there was more of it. To finish the evening off we enjoyed the cr?me brulee and a glass of limoncello together.All in all, our experience at capital grill was great. The food, the service, the knowledge of the food and wine by the staff, the atmosphere, everything came together perfectly at Capital Grill. The complimentary valet was also a nice touch. There are only a few improvements I would suggest. Mix up the salad menu, work on the lobster bisque, and tell the wait staff to be a little more relaxed. I feel like the staff was almost a little too proper or a little to uptight while explaining the menu or taking our orders.

View more Info about this bar at Barsmart

City Grill

The City Grill has long been a favorite of mine. I've been eating here for at least 4 years now and it never gets old. This is the type of place that if you've been to 3 or more times, the staff starts to call you by name, and your preferred table is always open. The City Grill is small, but not tiny. A few groups of people having dinner or lunch usually make you feel like your in a place that's busy, when there may only really be 20 or so people there. It has a black and white checkered floor and exposed brick walls. The ceilings are high and there's a bar the right. The place could probably seat around 50 tops and at times around dinner or in the evenings it's not uncommon to wait for a table (there are also a few tables outside). You're usually greeted by the bartender who goes by "Bear," a tall fellow that isn't shy by any means. The service is quick and consistent; most of the staff has been there for a very long time. It's a family owned place and the owner can often be seen in the kitchen preparing meals or relaxing at the bar enjoying a glass of wine. The City Grills close proximity to the rest of the bars/clubs/nightlife on Carson makes it ideal for having dinner before heading out for the evening. There's almost always a bachelor or bachelorette party passing through on the weekends and on any given day of the week it's not uncommon to see some suits at the bar (the place also has a cult following for the Kentucky Derby and is packed with people dressed as if they're attending the Carolina cup). The food is always fresh, very fresh. And everything, right down to the pasta noodles, is homemade. Like the name of the place, almost everything is grilled. The salads are phenomenal, and seam better than most places I go to, including higher end restaurants. The place was formally owned by the Tesaros, known for their excellent burgers, and the tradition holds true today. Be sure to ask what they have on special, if they don't tell you at first, and what the soup of the day is, as its something different everyday. If you go, be sure to have a salad. Order the wings for an appetizer, these aren't your ordinary wings, they're wood fired and basted in a spicy mild barbeque buffalo sauce. For dinner I'd suggest the Deli burger with Thousand Island dressing and a side of hash browns. Or, the Chicken Parmesan, served grilled, with a side of pasta and marinara and a side salad. For Desert, be sure to try the homemade Tiramisu, or just hope that they have it, as they run out fast. And ask for some of their homemade Limoncello, brought back from Italy in a family recipe. This isn't a burger and wing joint, but they do still make them and they do it well. The prices are good and so is the food, and I promise you, you won't leave hungry.

View more Info about this bar at Barsmart

Paradise Beach

Any day on the beach is better than a day anywhere else. Even if that day happens to be on a river beach. Paradise Beach is a combination, bowling alley, bar and restaurant with outdoor activities such as a volley ball court, horseshoe pit, BBQ pit w/ covered eating area, an outdoor bar with a stage, tables, lighting complete with sand. You can pull up in your boat dockside, get off, eat, drink and enjoy some fine live music.

View more Info about this bar at Barsmart

Privilege Ultralounge

The VIP seems great at first, get 5 or so friends, get 2 bottles, have everyone chip in, a private table upstairs, but we were very wrong. We Get got our bottles which where $130 a piece and our "private table" and everything was going ok. But around 11:00 the group next to us pushed all our couches into the corner while we were on the dance door and the bouncers did nothing. Then the group next to us got into a huge fist fight at 11:30 and the bouncers closed the VIP section off and forced us out the rest of the night, with our two bottles barely draken. We calmly asked to talk to a manger and the bouncer grabbed my friend by the neck and shoved him out the front door. Then at the end of the night they refused to talk to us about a refund, so we had to get a cop for us to talk to management at the front door. We were forced to pay a $550 ($270 extra?) bill or take them to the Magistrate. That is no way to treat VIP guest who had to pay alot of money for VIP, I will not be going back ever, there are other options in Pittsburgh that will treat guest better. plus the dance floor isn't that great.

View more Info about this bar at Barsmart

Saddle Ridge

After I read everyone else's reviews on Saddleridge I was wondering if I had gone into the wrong place! My first impression of the place...well let's put it this way, I was not impressed. It looks like a warehouse with a mechanical bull in the middle of it. That's about the extent of it. Maybe I'm wrong, but it does not look like the owners put any money at all into making their establishment look like an authentic country bar. The first thing that struck me was the cement floor, and the ladies room? Well, I won't go there. Let's just say, it's a very casual and I mean "basement" or "warehouse" casual. I was expecting a Gilley's type place, but the owners obviously had something else in mind.Having made all of those not so great comments, the music acts they bring absolutely makes up for what (in my opinion) is lacking in the place. The bartenders seem to be on the ball and they were friendly. It is a large place so you won't feel cramped. There is plenty of parking and it is in a great location.Is it just me or is anything "authentic" anymore in Pittsburgh?

View more Info about this bar at Barsmart

Finnigan's Wake - 'Is Only About 25% Irish Pub'

I have mixed feelings about Finnegan's. Every time I'm at the North Shore I seem to end up there. Why? Because I love Irish pubs. I keep hoping that one day the management at Finnegan's Wake will make their place an "authentic" Irish pub with "authentic" irish music, beer, food, atmosphere, etc. I'll keep hoping. Right now, Finnegan's Wake is only about 25% irish pub, 25% sports bar and about %50 your average bar with a jukebox.They used to have live Irish music there years back but no longer. If you're a local Irish band in Pittsburgh trying to get a venue there keep wishing, hoping and dreaming! Our band has tried with no success.On a positive note, I will continue my occasional visits to Finnegan's Wake because the Guinness beer is good and the bartenders are friendly.

View more Info about this bar at Barsmart

Blinky's

Blinky's is a yummy place to go to for lunch! I work in Greentree and as most of the people know who do, there aren't too many places to eat lunch! If you want something other then fast food, or the Olive Garden I suggest you try Blinky's!Apon walking in I wasn't sure what to expect. It kind of looks like a dive bar. On the left is a restaurant and the right is the bar. I walked to the right for all the booths and tables were taken. So I sat at a high top table. The place was busy, which wasn't a surprise since it was lunch. I waited a few mins for the waitress to come over. When she did she was friendly and ask me what I wanted to drink and eat. I settled on a buffalo chic sandwich. The food was tasty! And well priced! I would like to go back and try something different. There are a few tvs in the bar which would be a nice and relaxing place to watch the game. They also have a Juke Box and some Bar Games. I would go back to Blinky's and try something else and maybe get a cocktail. But if your looking for a yummy and cheap place to eat..try Blinky's!

View more Info about this bar at Barsmart

Jimmy D's

I have been going to Jimmy Ds every weekend for the last two months and it has been packed both upstairs and downstairs! The atmosphere is carefree and fun. The service at both bars is fast and friendly the bartenders are all smiles for the most part.Drinks are really cheap between 930 and 1130.Its pretty clean for a nightclub, sometimes the wait for the bathroom is a little long but thats the girls room. The dancefloor is spacious but theres normally a ton of people and it has the craziest motion like you are moving up and down, all in all I find Jimmy D's to be a really great time.

View more Info about this bar at Barsmart

Conway Loung

Much larger inside than it appears from the lot. Service isn't the friendliest.....that is until you start tipping 25%. The food is fantastic for bar fare. Try the wings and sandwiches.....great value IMO. Reasonably priced. I'd make a special trip back just for the food. If they'd hire friendlier help I think the place would rock.

View more Info about this bar at Barsmart