tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-55851474551990911792024-03-13T20:20:34.749-07:00Pittsburgh Happy HourTaking the Pittsburgh happy hour scene by storm since 2011.Pittsburgh HappyHourhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08344852771467844704noreply@blogger.comBlogger243125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5585147455199091179.post-506883768740216062024-01-20T07:00:00.000-08:002024-01-20T07:41:27.619-08:00Lamb Fest 2022<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi6IrpnGyp7lpBNbc0UJTIppUo836bXchw3PF6ZT9KiZP0p0SO1dlAlvFsA3owezvUlk87t4yk3hVP-oSrMwx-N02OdA50Ls0wVXu9AoJ8_xtGE78bYljFWxWduAZS42YugHCzECtG1rficxJtXA2I_FPQbuKso9nhadZR4_T60tXJhQ1ZDWzHYWETT" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img data-original-height="877" data-original-width="1170" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi6IrpnGyp7lpBNbc0UJTIppUo836bXchw3PF6ZT9KiZP0p0SO1dlAlvFsA3owezvUlk87t4yk3hVP-oSrMwx-N02OdA50Ls0wVXu9AoJ8_xtGE78bYljFWxWduAZS42YugHCzECtG1rficxJtXA2I_FPQbuKso9nhadZR4_T60tXJhQ1ZDWzHYWETT=w640-h480" width="640" /></a></div><p></p><p><br /></p><p>Every year Lamb Fest just seems to get better! This year the lineup and variety of dishes were absolutely incredible. In fact, many of the dishes are so sophisticated that the average consumer of lamb could find themselves overwhelmed by the dearth of offerings. Because of the general format of the event you ought not to expect pedestrian lamb chops or lamb on a stick. <br /></p><p><br /></p><p><b>Team 1 - Made you Choose</b></p><p>Sometimes choice can be an amazing thing. After all, variety is the spice of life. However, when you are waiting in line trying to slam as much lamb as possible, choice can be an awful endeavor!! Team 1 made you decide which lamb dish you were going to try, you were not permitted to select both. I assume one could probably get back in line and try the other dish, but when there is so much lamb to sample, it can be difficult to find the time. <br /></p><p><b>Team 2 - Lamb Pizza</b></p><p>Team 2 made a lamb pizza that made me want to die. I thought they did a fantastic job of making a dish that was both delicious and freshly prepared. (Many of the teams are able to do a significant amount of their work ahead of the festival in prepartion.) These folks were busting their butts slaving over a hot pizza oven for the duration of the event. <br /></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjxVzFEaQGHvbZ6O7WAugYXMkc8bsP1dLNiVMxbTzO1k8KPA_-ut7-IXOrSO4MEatOMmEQPYZYXPeCsmnm2xm6KTSCQY2Ew6Z0OPiTG3BMEu8DrQy0UMXYSyG75ZbZl-AmAf_Bmx9RxWhli0VpxkWN7slzt9W62qHDF6XXD3FbQqy61vkVmZnjMtSSo" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img data-original-height="877" data-original-width="1170" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjxVzFEaQGHvbZ6O7WAugYXMkc8bsP1dLNiVMxbTzO1k8KPA_-ut7-IXOrSO4MEatOMmEQPYZYXPeCsmnm2xm6KTSCQY2Ew6Z0OPiTG3BMEu8DrQy0UMXYSyG75ZbZl-AmAf_Bmx9RxWhli0VpxkWN7slzt9W62qHDF6XXD3FbQqy61vkVmZnjMtSSo=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></div><b><br /></b><p><b>Team 3 - Lamb Offal</b></p><p>This was probably one of the most underrated dishes of the entire event. They killed it while using everyone's least favorite part of the lamb. For more on my love of offal check this piece out about the organ dinner hosted by <a href="https://www.pittsburghhappyhour.com/2020/01/dish-organs.html">Fet Fisk at Dish.</a> https://www.pittsburghhappyhour.com/2020/01/dish-organs.html<br /></p><p><b>Team 5 - Lamb Pierogi, Cookie</b></p><p>While some iteration of this team has made the cookie at almost every Lamb Fest I can remember, this years cookie was better than ever. The lamb pierogi was the perfect vehicle for a nice lamb punch to the face. <br /></p><p><b>Team 6 - Lamb Curry</b></p><p>Not all of the dishes we tried really seemed to feature lamb. While the curry offered by Team 6 had a wonderful spice balance, and was buttery and rich in flavor, the pieces of lamb were quite small and the lamb itself almost felt like an afterthought. <br /></p><p><b>Team 8 - Vegetarian Lentil Seitan</b></p><p>While this dish was flavorful, it was entirely lacking in lamb. Do better.<br /></p><p><b>Team 9 - Bahn Mi - Previous winners</b></p><p>These folks were the previous winners of last years lamb festival. Their Bahn Mi was absolutely beautiful with perfect texture and balance of flavors. The sandwich was very bright and the pate was absolutely amazing. This may have been the best dish of 2022. <br /></p><p><b>Team 10 - Lamb Noodles </b></p><p>I'm sure you've noticed by now that I tend to complain when one of the dishes does not have enough lamb. This dish featured a decent amount of lamb and a very deep lamb bone flavor. However, the noodles themselves lacked texture and mouthfeel. While this was a solid attempt it ended up being underwhelming in terms of the execution of the overall dish. <br /></p><p><b>Team 11 - Lamb Corndog</b><br /></p><p>I would actually put the corn dog prepared by Team 11 in last place, even behind the vegetarian dish that did not contain lamb. The corn dog itself was a soggy disappointment. One of those rare instances where you wish you had saved stomach capacity.<br /></p><p><br /></p><p>Unfortunately there are a number of teams I was not even able to comment on at this years festival, by 2:20 some vendors had run out, by 3 many were out. However, it was a spectacular event and we all left feeling quite full and lamb drunk.<br /></p><p><br /></p>Pittsburgh HappyHourhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08344852771467844704noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5585147455199091179.post-51530638803555492042021-11-21T12:56:00.000-08:002021-11-21T12:56:07.905-08:00Lamb Fest 2021 - South Side Works<p> <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU4b3_Yhnp6apa0HHyrX2dJlPNXfmo8BDHGz1ndti_gEtYh4r067TUfGnXaQsczCiYOsoV3kQEiRvEReTxG-tg-rO0spDWUtVEBZmsvTbG_11reTN9JUJo0vitRfpltvSzIMfZUE2VeyQ/s1170/lambcollage2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="878" data-original-width="1170" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU4b3_Yhnp6apa0HHyrX2dJlPNXfmo8BDHGz1ndti_gEtYh4r067TUfGnXaQsczCiYOsoV3kQEiRvEReTxG-tg-rO0spDWUtVEBZmsvTbG_11reTN9JUJo0vitRfpltvSzIMfZUE2VeyQ/w640-h480/lambcollage2.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Some of the Lamb<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></p><p>Lamb Fest is easily one of the top food events in Pittsburgh. This year the event was better than ever. The South Side works turned out to be a perfect venue as it allowed for a very generous lamb flow. In previous years some of the other venues were a little tight and lines seemed to overflow into the thoroughfares surrounding the event. Due to covid concerns it was wonderful to have some additional space at this years event. Our group never had a difficult time finding a nice quiet table to enjoy our lamb and honestly we barely even had to wait in line to try the majority of the dishes.</p><p>In particular the VIP lounge was an awesome touch this year. The VIP tickets provided unlimited drinks, a private indoor dining area, a number of awesome sweets and even a very generous Larimer's gift card.<br /></p><p>Pictured above is some bozo we saw eating lamb soup cooked by Team 5: The Northwest Shredders. Also pictured are the lamb fat donuts and lamb sausage cooked by Team2: Sheared Excellence and finally one of my favorites, the lamb sloppy jo cooked by Team 9: Average Jo's.<br /></p><p> <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5lkeXT08xsGWvbRjwdM8lbJOAnAijUBGIKMEUGHol-NYyUB9OnBjlCwIr3oEvWlqYpYBxyIPyQwIRDmFkNn-2ufVWa_WKXC5VxbfFR0KeYWl6XvZao_-o1jIjPBOoKRYdQtXmuBACPkI/s1170/lambcollage1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="877" data-original-width="1170" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5lkeXT08xsGWvbRjwdM8lbJOAnAijUBGIKMEUGHol-NYyUB9OnBjlCwIr3oEvWlqYpYBxyIPyQwIRDmFkNn-2ufVWa_WKXC5VxbfFR0KeYWl6XvZao_-o1jIjPBOoKRYdQtXmuBACPkI/w640-h480/lambcollage1.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">MORE LAMB<br /></td></tr></tbody></table></p><p> </p><p>Now let's get down to the brass tax. Ranking this years contestants. There were so many awesome dishes that it was nearly impossible to rank them. However, I managed to do it anyhow. The teams that placed towards the end of my list shouldn't be disappointed in the results. Their dishes were truly fantastic, much of my rankings were based on personal preferences. Everything I tried at the event was absolutely delicious. The exception is Team 6 who ran out of lamb an hour into the event. I didn't get to try their dish; you really need to learn to pace yourselves boys. <br /></p><p><b>Lamb Rankings 2021</b><br /></p><p>
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1st Place<br />
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Team 7 - Lamb Lettuce Wrap<br />
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Team 5 - Shredded Pancake Lamb Stew<br />
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3rd Place<br />
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Team 4 Lamb Croquette<br />
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4th Place<br />
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Team 9 - Lamb Sloppy Jo's<br />
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5th Place<br />
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Team 3 - Lamb Quesabirra<br />
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6th Place<br />
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Team 1 - Lamb Neua Gae<br />
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7th Place<br />
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Team 2 - Lamb Dog and Donut<br />
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8th Place<br />
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Team 8 - Terrine <br />
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9th Place<br />
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Team 6 - DNF<br />
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<p> Below I've described each dish for your pleasure. <br /></p><p><b>Team 1 - f-f-f-f and a nice chianti - Lamb Neua Gae</b></p><p>This was similar to the lamb lettuce wrap but served in Belgian endive which tends to be somewhat bitter. I heard many of the guests at the event describe the dish itself as bitter, but I would imagine they just aren't accustomed to eating Belgian endive. The dish had a varied texture which added depth. The flavor in general seemed unbalanced and was lacking but it had an awesome spice level. It had one of the best spice levels of any dish at the contest and the team used the entire animal in preparing their dish which is something I appreciate. Word up to my main man Don. <br /></p><p><b> <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6eqEGRVuwfHrAZsKy9eK7s-uC0Z7QkFkn5N1axhcosVYDkWje0A3r9vF6irtFrM9A1PoIL_NvcRh4bYLmTqUPpCzK8VgBOf18xWEtem8FIlA1Wmd4WeGafdWUAVac-R64ugLjdpdT0Xg/s2048/20211024_134434.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="275" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6eqEGRVuwfHrAZsKy9eK7s-uC0Z7QkFkn5N1axhcosVYDkWje0A3r9vF6irtFrM9A1PoIL_NvcRh4bYLmTqUPpCzK8VgBOf18xWEtem8FIlA1Wmd4WeGafdWUAVac-R64ugLjdpdT0Xg/w207-h275/20211024_134434.jpg" width="207" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lamb Dog<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></b></p><p><b>Team 2 - Sheared Excellence - Lamb Dog and Donut</b></p><p>I have to give Team 2 bonus points for having so many wonderful dishes when all the other contestants only offered one dish. They had a delicious jerky that was loaded with flavor, a lamb donut and also a lamb sausage which was delicious and paired extremely well with feta, onions and cucumber. I felt the sausage was a bit too bread heavy. The donut made a nice presentation but overall was a bit underwhelming.<b> </b><br /></p><p><b>Team 3 - Slamb Let the Boys be Boys - Lamb Quesabirra</b></p><p> I absolutely love quesabirra. While I've generally only had the dish prepared with beef, lamb is perfect as well due to the high fat content. Also, the house made tortilla was fantastic. The dish had a great texture and plenty of meat, but it felt like it lacked salt and it was also a bit difficult to eat as the tortilla was lacking in integrity. </p><p><a href="https://simonchough.wixsite.com/sojupgh">Soju</a> was a member of Team 3 - in case you missed it the owner of Soju had an amazing rant on social media earlier this year explaining his food prices and touching on the topic of what it means to offer authentic food. While the tortilla may have been lacking in integrity no one can say the same about Soju or the other members of Team 3.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQv3aPFteoTTg9fTvnVutcjFQhVrNTyDmGXm12OPitfBYPn2ACODUF2nUiwp296g0kjeD2sd5VAhU05S985NMgMz7aEyeI_V6-33n9CbqLTr9EK0_D7WtwG5P_XCU4o6H-kcCr3ywhTvs/s320/20211024_144412.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lamb Croquette<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQv3aPFteoTTg9fTvnVutcjFQhVrNTyDmGXm12OPitfBYPn2ACODUF2nUiwp296g0kjeD2sd5VAhU05S985NMgMz7aEyeI_V6-33n9CbqLTr9EK0_D7WtwG5P_XCU4o6H-kcCr3ywhTvs/s2048/20211024_144412.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <br /></a></div><br /><p><b>Team 4: Casa Vandal - Lamb Croquette</b></p><p>Someone get these guys a bigger deep fryer! Team 4 was the only team that continuously had a line throughout the event. This was because they were individually deep frying croquettes in a deep fryer designed for home use. Due to the process involved each croquette came out piping hot and delicious. I also loved the tangy dipping sauce accompanying the dish. I thought this dish was beautiful but I also felt it could have done a better job featuring the lamb. Shout out to my man Joey.<br /></p><p><b>Team 5 - Northwest Shredders - Shredded Pancake Lamb Stew</b></p><p>Honestly this was probably my favorite dish of the day, but I ranked it second because I almost felt like they were cheating. This stew was absolutely remarkable. Just loaded with flavor and amazing ingredients. The stew featured a ton of tofu, an amazing broth and tender delicious lamb. Again, the lamb almost seemed like an afterthought which is why I ranked them second. Each bowl of stew was customizable and included red pepper, cilantro and pickled garlic as possible options. The day of the event was a bit cold and dreary and this was the perfect dish for such a day. A+++ work. <b> <br /></b></p><p><b>Team 6 - The Under dogz - Pure Lamb</b></p><p>The Under dogz were definitely under dogs as they totally blew it. I made the mistake of waiting to try their dish last. Just one hour into the competition they had run out of lamb and closed shop. I told chef Roger Li that I expected more. I'm sad to rank them last, but I didn't even get to try their dish. Lamb is just like sex or a buffet, you need to pace yourself. If you haven't <b> </b>checked out <a href="https://theparlordimsum.com/">Parlor Dim Sum by Chef Li</a> I highly recommend that you do. His dim sum boxes are fantastic.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_92n8TBReQqXmwMANrxSvCLRrBjLXq7oX9kozgOYhWpRFlQfEGwP-okgF6aNZODFg6ZaIeytw26iCXYcxkNUE9mXk4KKEa92GZw0fkWoqssXqSZS4G4CJZZ4GGQs0PqvbTKl4RjxHMFg/s2048/20211024_133024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_92n8TBReQqXmwMANrxSvCLRrBjLXq7oX9kozgOYhWpRFlQfEGwP-okgF6aNZODFg6ZaIeytw26iCXYcxkNUE9mXk4KKEa92GZw0fkWoqssXqSZS4G4CJZZ4GGQs0PqvbTKl4RjxHMFg/s320/20211024_133024.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lamb Lettuce Wrap<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p><b>Team7 - Wood Fire - Lamb Lettuce Wrap</b> <br /></p><p>This was what I considered the best dish of the competition. It was perfectly seasoned and balanced and they did a remarkable job of featuring lamb as the main ingredient. The pomegranate added a magnificent crunch and wonderful texture. I could eat this everyday. <br /></p><p><b>Team 8 - Lambaholics - Terrine with Condiments</b></p><p>Honestly, if it had been a hot day I think this might have been my favorite dish. The terrine itself was absolutely fantastic and loaded with flavor. However, the presentation left a lot to be desired and it just wasn't an ideal dish for a cold rainy day.<br /></p><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg0HgieCM_U6TqBVkllmtTgRzV5mytlHIyiThgZ5bG4mGqSguAcmxQPmfW-gkur0UdXO34j_UfvXV_hkCeJXFEJ2CWY__RJL9cAMCBtupL459RjC-9eCPQYsLYwUNmleAtggMnGrXs23U/s2048/20211024_133305.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg0HgieCM_U6TqBVkllmtTgRzV5mytlHIyiThgZ5bG4mGqSguAcmxQPmfW-gkur0UdXO34j_UfvXV_hkCeJXFEJ2CWY__RJL9cAMCBtupL459RjC-9eCPQYsLYwUNmleAtggMnGrXs23U/s320/20211024_133305.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lamb Sloppy Jo<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><p><b>Team 9 0 Average Jo's - Lamb Sloppy Jo's</b></p><p>The lamb sloppy jo was also one of my favorite dishes of the day. The brioche bun was very good and the creme fraiche added a nice balance to the lamb mixture. My only complaint is that the lamb to bread ratio was a bit skewed and I could have used a little more lamb or a little less bread.<br /></p>If you like lamb you had better get a ticket to next years event. The Western PA Lamb Festival does an amazing job of showcasing not only the versatility of lamb but also the talents of some of the best chefs in the city. It's lamb heaven. <br /><p><br /></p>Pittsburgh HappyHourhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08344852771467844704noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5585147455199091179.post-9022208074587046172021-01-25T14:33:00.003-08:002021-01-25T14:33:53.146-08:00SPICE IT UP<p> </p><p> </p><p>We had an awesome opportunity to work with TenFourSocial and Weight Loss Direct to make this amazing video. Be sure to SPICE IT UP</p><p> </p><p> </p><p> <br /></p>
<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/tv/CKfAFlaBjoQ/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="13" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding:16px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/tv/CKfAFlaBjoQ/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"> <div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; 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font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:550; line-height:18px;"> View this post on Instagram</div></div><div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"><div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"></div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"></div></div><div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"></div> <div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg)"></div></div><div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style=" width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"></div> <div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"></div></div></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"></div></div></a><p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/tv/CKfAFlaBjoQ/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Pittsburgh Happy Hour (@pghhappyhour)</a></p></div></blockquote> <script async src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script>Pittsburgh HappyHourhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08344852771467844704noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5585147455199091179.post-75410063256979858602020-11-26T11:20:00.000-08:002020-11-26T11:20:42.987-08:00Jean Louis - Dormont<p></p><p></p><p></p><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFPsKBPZxSBavFjsL5-O70X6hig99FwqkWaGrQ87XBmH4v7MDO-pqd0o69Ac67_0SlZ00NKvGROq_Usjz5MST6As3jvwUa-RNfphmdElzPWZ7_yqOM-nHu5hyphenhyphenrrodPPsszrtxd9ghrlbQ/s2048/collage+jean+louis.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Jean Louis" border="0" data-original-height="1138" data-original-width="2048" height="356" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFPsKBPZxSBavFjsL5-O70X6hig99FwqkWaGrQ87XBmH4v7MDO-pqd0o69Ac67_0SlZ00NKvGROq_Usjz5MST6As3jvwUa-RNfphmdElzPWZ7_yqOM-nHu5hyphenhyphenrrodPPsszrtxd9ghrlbQ/w640-h356/collage+jean+louis.jpg" title="Jean Louis - mushrooms bread and drinks" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jean Louis - Pork Bread Mushrooms Sweets<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><p>Jean Louis was one of the best culinary treats that I had the pleasure of experiencing this year. I know what you might be thinking: why would you expect exquisite French cuisine in Dormont?</p><p>But you should! Chef Vincent Capuano trained extensively in France but he has all the sensibilities and quirky qualities you could expect from any chef raised in McKees Rocks. His approach to French dining is totally lacking in pretension. He came across as warm, honest and humble. But his food was remarkable and displayed the qualities that you might expect from a much more unyielding chef.<br /></p><p><br /></p><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijmJrJj-guX6MrosuryCcrkZqZjyKJWzpG2DKag64VoMXeJNJ__z5j4wZLvVkZ-hIHNZXOt7tGZ-kHHsZftZezg6Dt5O78Q_S44mKWgmLgBvFpkx2btj9rZgTwhvV08GTYSB3Sxguocn0/s2048/20200311_184551.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="2048" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijmJrJj-guX6MrosuryCcrkZqZjyKJWzpG2DKag64VoMXeJNJ__z5j4wZLvVkZ-hIHNZXOt7tGZ-kHHsZftZezg6Dt5O78Q_S44mKWgmLgBvFpkx2btj9rZgTwhvV08GTYSB3Sxguocn0/w400-h225/20200311_184551.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Octopus<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><p>Our first course was octopus which was extremely fitting as it was the very first dish that Chef Vincent learned to cook. I love octopus and this was some of the best octopus that I have ever tried. It was remarkably tender, well seasoned and served with gorgeous accoutrements. If you could only try one dish at Jean Louis, I would say try the octopus. Based on the <a href="https://www.pghcitypaper.com/pittsburgh/the-new-chef-at-jean-louis-would-like-you-to-come-try-the-octopus/Content?oid=16919094" target="_blank">article that the City Paper</a> ran it would seem that <a href="https://www.boldpgh.com/restaurant-visits/2020/3/10/jean-louis-dawns-a-new-chef-and-menu-in-pittsburgh-bdnyg">everyone</a> agrees with me. </p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbgkgri5xVvIaAyEbkhbB0l0DFYFC2E1j3g9S6u-VcoNp8CTj_A_Rj1UV0yULD-steqCXEiWXg_dj5WdodUupaX8NieWnZ05M6nDMBI5ROXMRbLYDwKUJe4TuTykTC9kP9EMdNDWcqFYo/s2048/20200311_190636.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="2048" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbgkgri5xVvIaAyEbkhbB0l0DFYFC2E1j3g9S6u-VcoNp8CTj_A_Rj1UV0yULD-steqCXEiWXg_dj5WdodUupaX8NieWnZ05M6nDMBI5ROXMRbLYDwKUJe4TuTykTC9kP9EMdNDWcqFYo/w400-h225/20200311_190636.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Crab Cake<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p> </p><p>Our next dish was this spectacular crab cake. It was entirely unique from any crab cake I've tried as it was not breaded or heavily fried and the dish itself really featured the richness and quality of the crab. It was almost like a delightful warm crab salad. They used jumbo lump crap from Ecuador. It is worth noting that jumbo lump crab meat is not usually used in crab cakes because it is the more expensive part of the crab. Thanks Jean Louis! </p><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgugDgAIi_eqH-A_r-SprO3MJkK1oum5uQIglqW-MgcmypGOA5zfUkejrZ20lPxsSEha5Sx4RF-kz0bMP_doOzxVKpHtrPL2BZ5mtR7j88W5GWFBool9boAfzGwFjEyHGxrqvsFZDYLIWc/s2048/20200311_195422.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="2048" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgugDgAIi_eqH-A_r-SprO3MJkK1oum5uQIglqW-MgcmypGOA5zfUkejrZ20lPxsSEha5Sx4RF-kz0bMP_doOzxVKpHtrPL2BZ5mtR7j88W5GWFBool9boAfzGwFjEyHGxrqvsFZDYLIWc/w640-h360/20200311_195422.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pasta With Musrooms<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><p></p><p></p><p>Our next course was the burrata pappardelle with these remarkable mushrooms. When I expressed interest in the mushrooms Chef Vincent actually sent out his sous chef with this absolutely gorgeous box of assorted fresh mushrooms. I'm a huge mycology guy, that's to say - I get really excited about fungus.</p><p>Did you know that <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kennett_Square,_Pennsylvania">Kennett Square </a>in Pennsylvania is the mushroom capital of the world? Those lunatics produce over 500 million pounds of mushrooms a year, nearly half the US crop. With recent changes in legislation in <a href="https://www.cnbc.com/2020/11/04/oregon-becomes-first-state-to-legalize-magic-mushrooms-as-more-states-ease-drug-laws.html">Oregon</a> and other parts of the country I would say that Pennsylvania has a great opportunity to cultivate all sorts of mushrooms.</p><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMQtSe-mo_DMTWP-uOf_lQkld5iDVQeGPGkfKfUiSnY-YEanu2GnryTGYn4Rj1GieyPr5B4jr1fvegHiJPsbfT7I7xiUMQb6RSYvk6xM5XQP7ENqKcf9B2LAkao3XWLZU9CyVJ3msiC2g/s2048/20200311_203643.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="2048" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMQtSe-mo_DMTWP-uOf_lQkld5iDVQeGPGkfKfUiSnY-YEanu2GnryTGYn4Rj1GieyPr5B4jr1fvegHiJPsbfT7I7xiUMQb6RSYvk6xM5XQP7ENqKcf9B2LAkao3XWLZU9CyVJ3msiC2g/w400-h225/20200311_203643.jpg" title="Foie Gras" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Foie Gras<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p>Throughout the evening we really found the presentation of each dish to be spectacular. This foie gras is the perfect example. I personally adore foie gras. The rich texture lends itself to so many delightful applications.</p><p>I find it outrageously silly that there is a move to ban foie gras in some parts of the world such as New York. Despite what the psychos at PETA might think, not all <a href="https://www.villagevoice.com/2009/02/18/is-foie-gras-torture/">production of foie gras</a> is unethical. In fact <a href="https://www.seriouseats.com/2010/12/the-physiology-of-foie-why-foie-gras-is-not-u.html">many farms are quite transparent </a>about how they treat the geese that are used in the production of foie gras and I would venture to say that if you have a problem eating foie gras you probably shouldn't be eating meat at all. (Disclaimer, I have no disrespect whatsoever for vegetarians. Personally I subscribe to <a href="https://www.csus.edu/indiv/g/gaskilld/ethics/animal%20rights.htm">Kantian ethics</a> when it comes to the treatment of animals. The only thing that I find infuriating is when people decide that it is more ethical to eat some animals or some parts of animals than other animals. What a bunch of fucking hypocrites.)<br /></p><p>Some of the other dishes we really enjoyed included the scallops and the desert pastries. Personally I would say you can skip the pork belly. It's quite obvious that the staff here takes great care in selecting quality ingredients. Overall this is a remarkable restaurant. I would highly recommend stopping by to pay Chef Vincent a visit. </p><p><br /></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSvpX8VzVBFSFRpghwds9YpShbhKpzE6Zj7iJFUzv4-yCHTkTK5hpYFmUtl3lQ2FuSnyTxmpTezEmj2m6MgIRE_qTe_bWJPLr-eGp22KIIkehyphenhyphenB4P29UnmoNk8vx4XPvackMOjKWbpzW0/s2048/IMG_8550.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSvpX8VzVBFSFRpghwds9YpShbhKpzE6Zj7iJFUzv4-yCHTkTK5hpYFmUtl3lQ2FuSnyTxmpTezEmj2m6MgIRE_qTe_bWJPLr-eGp22KIIkehyphenhyphenB4P29UnmoNk8vx4XPvackMOjKWbpzW0/s320/IMG_8550.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><br /><p></p><br /><p></p><p> </p>Pittsburgh HappyHourhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08344852771467844704noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5585147455199091179.post-53493351805275934592020-10-01T05:15:00.003-07:002020-10-01T05:15:46.444-07:00Fet Fesk - Round Two<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnU6BDBDsJd3RFBs86oCsZPl4RfwM5zYyExyrQB0i3oE8zwX-uUaVKQIM_nXq_sCdnt-IZzTTmvrTRlyvCI1Gltf3SPn760wAmvDoU4-HrbvEA9IqWmQT-zBaVvdslfpxz2PvvkSIEnuY/s1600/fetfesk2.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="890" data-original-width="1600" height="354" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnU6BDBDsJd3RFBs86oCsZPl4RfwM5zYyExyrQB0i3oE8zwX-uUaVKQIM_nXq_sCdnt-IZzTTmvrTRlyvCI1Gltf3SPn760wAmvDoU4-HrbvEA9IqWmQT-zBaVvdslfpxz2PvvkSIEnuY/s640/fetfesk2.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Precious</td></tr>
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<a href="https://www.fetfisk.net/what-is-fetfisk">Fet Fisk</a> has previously been a traveling act, but for a while earlier this year they found a temporary home at Pear and Pickle in Troy Hill. Back in October I had the opportunity to check out <a href="https://www.pittsburghhappyhour.com/2020/01/dish-organs.html">Fet Fisk at Dish Osteria</a> for a spooky meal comprised of various offal. It was just fantastic.<br />
<br />
I had the pleasure of visiting Fet Fisk again at Pear and Pickle in early 2020. I was scheduled to dine with them again in March, but unfortunately their regular dinners been on hiatus due to COVID. I've been telling anyone who will listen that I believe Fet Fisk is one of the most unique culinary experiences that Pittsburgh has to offer.<br /></p><p>Some of my favorite dishes from the evening included the soft omelet with gravlax, the fish head soup, the fishmongers lunch with smoked mussels, scallop, octopus and salt cod. It was just a wonderful array of perfectly prepared seafood. We honestly tried everything on the menu. <br />
<br />
As our oysters arrived I asked if it was possible to have some mignonette or cocktail sauce. The waiter came back and told me that the chef said that any additional sauce was forbidden! I know that a lot of people might be offended, but I personally think it is great when the chef tells you how to enjoy something exactly as it is intended. <br />
<br />Within the last few weeks Fet Fisk has opened their <a href="https://www.fetfisk.net/royal-market/">Royal Market</a> featuring some really amazing looking smogasboards. They should also have some additional offerings as they get acclimated to their new space, how exciting. <br />
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<br />Pittsburgh HappyHourhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08344852771467844704noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5585147455199091179.post-29981624884896257912020-05-30T07:52:00.002-07:002020-05-30T07:58:47.548-07:00Sheetz Unviels New Hop Dog Beer with Neshaminy Creek Brewing<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzTskv680BJYKQYfYsw-T2E5J-r0drVZm4x1c7d7bA93ocpYlp0xJlm0yGo8B3NzbfMNTPpBJLOORebbIQ6BjOocz9_bYCfebQ2SUvzn1Fq7T-OlCvaQrKsPzB75h7Mrgbjx8TjHToHu4/s1600/Resized_IMG_1151.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1080" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzTskv680BJYKQYfYsw-T2E5J-r0drVZm4x1c7d7bA93ocpYlp0xJlm0yGo8B3NzbfMNTPpBJLOORebbIQ6BjOocz9_bYCfebQ2SUvzn1Fq7T-OlCvaQrKsPzB75h7Mrgbjx8TjHToHu4/s400/Resized_IMG_1151.jpeg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">HOT DOG</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;">This
post was brought to you by Sheetz in collaboration with Pittsburgh
Happy Hour.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br />
Just
last week Sheetz unveiled their brand new beer, "project hop
dog." This was the second time I had the opportunity to attend
the unveiling of a Sheetz collaboration, and they really are a ton of
fun.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br />
Sheetz
worked with <span style="background: transparent;">Neshaminy Creek
Brewing Company to produce this remarkable hot dog inspired beer. I
would describe the hop dog as being salty and subtly hoppy with a
great finish that really does remind you of a hot dog. While they
claim it doesn't actually taste like hot dogs, I swear that it does!</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br />
<span style="background: transparent;">My
favorite part of the launch event was when one of the members of the
Sheetz family referred to Sheetz hot dogs as "death dogs."
Ha! </span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br />
<span style="background: transparent;">I
love Sheetz food, but instead of their hot dogs I usually go with an
MTO chicken sandwich with about 14 different toppings. My go to
toppings are pickles, banana peppers, jalepenos, sauteed onions, raw
onions, lettuce, tomato, boom boom sauce, habenero sauce and extra
cheese. It's a real mess but totally worth it. </span></span></span>
<br />
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br />
</span></span><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="background: transparent;">For
the next few weeks you will be able to get a hop dog at most Sheetz
locations throughout the state while supplies last. For a full list
of participating locations, visit <a href="http://www.sheetz.com/beerproject">www.Sheetz.com/beerproject</a>.
I highly recommend grabbing a sixer if you like IPAs as this unique
beer will not be around long.</span></span></span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Launch Event</span></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Thank you to Sheetz and Neshaminy for putting together an amazing event! They've provided some additional information below.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></span>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">About Sheetz, Inc.</span><span style="background-color: transparent; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: transparent; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Established in 1952 in Altoona, Pennsylvania, Sheetz, Inc. is one of America's fastest-growing family-owned and operated convenience store chains with more than 20,000 employees. The company operates 600 store locations throughout Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Virginia, Maryland, Ohio and North Carolina. Sheetz provides an award-winning menu of M•T•O® sandwiches and salads, which are ordered through unique touch-screen order point terminals. All Sheetz convenience stores are open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Recognized by Fortune as one of the </span><a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=http://fortune.com/best-companies/sheetz-97/&source=gmail&ust=1590934508253000&usg=AFQjCNH8eNI8-otLeBtbQyKt2nJnzcKZ8A" href="http://fortune.com/best-companies/sheetz-97/" style="text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank"><span style="background-color: transparent; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">100 Best Companies to Work For</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">, Sheetz is committed to offering employees sustainable careers built on an inspiring culture and community engagement. For more information, visit <a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=http://www.sheetz.com&source=gmail&ust=1590934508253000&usg=AFQjCNGde5VszcPZDCXdJsBGktqM67BuYg" href="http://www.sheetz.com/" target="_blank">www.sheetz.com</a> or follow us on Twitter (@sheetz), Facebook (<a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=http://www.facebook.com/sheetz&source=gmail&ust=1590934508253000&usg=AFQjCNEXEOEo1SKOCT6gZ604hl9X_eLEWA" href="http://www.facebook.com/sheetz" target="_blank">www.facebook.com/sheetz</a>) and Instagram (<a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=http://www.instagram.com/sheetz&source=gmail&ust=1590934508253000&usg=AFQjCNFukfbL2dAPf5hnPMjLzJ-xrlKraQ" href="http://www.instagram.com/sheetz" target="_blank">www.instagram.com/sheetz</a>).
</span><span style="background-color: transparent; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: transparent; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">About Neshaminy Creek Brewing Company</span></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: transparent; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Neshaminy Creek Brewing Company is an award-winning craft brewery and taproom located just north of Philadelphia in Croydon, PA where they use their DIY ethic to make great tasting beer that challenges both their drinkers and brewers. Founded in 2010 by Jeremy Myers, Rob Jahn, and Steve Capelli, Neshaminy Creek has grown exponentially over the years and expanded distribution across Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland, and New York. In 2017, Neshaminy Creek opened their brewpub, The Borough Brewhouse, in Jenkintown, PA which features a full bar, kitchen, and exclusive beers from Head Brewer, Jason Ranck. For more information, visit </span><a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=http://www.neshaminycreekbrewing.com&source=gmail&ust=1590934508253000&usg=AFQjCNFdFDbxBz7zPe4ml40wEN-X-o5XXA" href="http://www.neshaminycreekbrewing.com/" style="text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank"><span style="background-color: transparent; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">www.neshaminycreekbrewing.com</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">, like us on Facebook (</span><a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=http://www.facebook.com/neshaminycreekbrewing&source=gmail&ust=1590934508253000&usg=AFQjCNEw7-PqGpNZ8TICb8VKsAWpN1i28Q" href="http://www.facebook.com/neshaminycreekbrewing" style="text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank"><span style="background-color: transparent; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">www.facebook.com/<wbr></wbr>neshaminycreekbrewing</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">), follow us on Twitter (</span><a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://twitter.com/ncbcbeer&source=gmail&ust=1590934508253000&usg=AFQjCNHSbqVxdn6wvqCjn8tpH_DECobvxQ" href="https://twitter.com/ncbcbeer" style="text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank"><span style="background-color: transparent; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">@ncbcbeer</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">) and Instagram (</span><a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.instagram.com/neshaminycreekbrewingco/&source=gmail&ust=1590934508253000&usg=AFQjCNHS2IOO2LuNydtKW5FCKRgJvNzACA" href="https://www.instagram.com/neshaminycreekbrewingco/" style="text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank"><span style="background-color: transparent; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">@neshaminycreekbrewingco</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">).</span></span></span><span style="color: #888888;"><br /></span>Pittsburgh HappyHourhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08344852771467844704noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5585147455199091179.post-72773734607105631282020-02-26T05:11:00.001-08:002020-02-26T05:15:38.097-08:00Restaurant Week 2020 - How I Roll<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Some of my treasures.</td></tr>
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<br />
Restaurant week is amazing. For years Brian has been putting together a heck of an event and this year he brought back the special food blogger dinner. Three courses at Bonfire in the Southside prior to the start of restaurant week: the raw deal (tuna tartare with pureed black beans) wagyu meatloaf and a fancy hazelnut chocolate crunch dessert.<br />
<br />
Overall it was an absolutely fantastic meal, but I do not understand why you would use wagyu beef to make meatloaf. C'est la vie. <br />
<br />
We also stopped by <a href="https://www.pittsburghhappyhour.com/2017/12/or-whale.html">Or the Whale</a>. Their prices have become more reasonable since they opened and they served up some fantastic seafood chowder along with fire roasted chicken with broccoli and potatoes.<br />
<br />
Also pictured is Piper's Pub Sunday Supper. A generous serving of roast beef with mashed potatoes, yorkshire pudding and roasted brussels. (They actually serve this meal every Sunday and it was not part of Restaurant week.)<br />
<br />
Finally, the <a href="https://www.pittsburghhappyhour.com/2018/07/carlton-rose-dinner.html">Carlton </a>has become my absolute favorite option for restaurant week. I visited for both lunch and dinner as unlike many other participating establishments they serve a different lunch and dinner menu for restaurant week. I'm talking shrimp, I'm talking short ribs, I'm talking kung pao chicken. Pure bliss. <br />
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I also dropped by the Capital Grill, but their salmon was just OK. I simply adore those fancy uniforms the waiters wear though.<br />
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Pittsburgh HappyHourhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08344852771467844704noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5585147455199091179.post-31198519422358348832020-02-21T05:39:00.000-08:002020-02-21T05:39:29.670-08:00SYN Bar & Bistro<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDn-DOoY7KXHVqLvmKXnaLm-3tHPDtmoek4Z9uqAoKV2-P3XfR4k733nXOrM9ErubaYoM2JVvR5vE9zIAmzeq5zQcyorTK6-I3QMXzfD9LRq2dZdHj1PeMh1xqNVXwhkl36syGRuh2ZU8/s1600/20200130_193435.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDn-DOoY7KXHVqLvmKXnaLm-3tHPDtmoek4Z9uqAoKV2-P3XfR4k733nXOrM9ErubaYoM2JVvR5vE9zIAmzeq5zQcyorTK6-I3QMXzfD9LRq2dZdHj1PeMh1xqNVXwhkl36syGRuh2ZU8/s640/20200130_193435.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Taco Pizza and Pizza Taco</td></tr>
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Pappa always told me, son, "You gotta chase that unicorn." <a href="https://www.taquerizza.com/">Syn</a> is a unicorn, a beautiful creature simply not destined for this world. Until I visited Syn I had absolutely no idea that Mexican-Italian fusion was a thing. According to <a href="https://www.allrecipes.com/article/mexican-italian-food-mashups-win-dinner/">Allrecipes</a> there are actually a ton of Mexican-Italian fusion dishes I had never even considered such as spaghetti tacos and Italian nachos, barf.<br />
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When I walked into Syn it was nearly empty and I asked the bartender if he would prefer an hola or a buon giorno. He stated that a simple hello would suffice. I was underwhelmed by his lack of enthusiasm. The space is enormous. It used to house the old Sharp Edge Bistro. I have to say, I'm glad that the various Sharp Edge locations throughout the city are closing. They are dated and the food is gross.<br />
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I walked into Syn expecting an opportunity to write a terrible review. After all, it is difficult to master one variety of cuisine, let alone Mexican-Italian fusion. I spent about an hour trying to figure out what to order that would really fuck them up. I went with the Mexican Pizza and the Pizza Taco. <br />
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I was shocked. The pizza was fantastic. Great crust, lovely Mexican toppings. Second only to the Italian taco, just a wonderful treat filled with meat, cheese and that Sunday gravy. They really blew me away, I was astounded by how good the food was. It is worth mentioning that their happy hour is also pretty decent:<br />
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Monday - Friday<br />4:30-6:30</div>
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$4 Margaritas<br />50% OFF ALL Craft Drafts<br />$5 Glasses of Wine<br />$5 Chips & Queso</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ghosts</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td></tr>
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This is where they hide the ghosts. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin8qr2f5pDXYsUn2iIAJO66-TjNlZrpE16lkUz3gwW7wxoqivm7zwiZSgVty-spIU-t0qexX9IFeSaypDLGSI-XKNZbYJ3KkvejmI-syBlOYinKYkqEkKIRaQeUDFTGF4eBQZAXpHGAxo/s1600/20200130_202053_001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin8qr2f5pDXYsUn2iIAJO66-TjNlZrpE16lkUz3gwW7wxoqivm7zwiZSgVty-spIU-t0qexX9IFeSaypDLGSI-XKNZbYJ3KkvejmI-syBlOYinKYkqEkKIRaQeUDFTGF4eBQZAXpHGAxo/s320/20200130_202053_001.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5XaFLbKGV0Pa98nPi-87lCT4m5WAZ19VapvEBmzWLRsA2zCxJ9Rowuw9o3j1PxCqCW1vs_BRYKo2avzpTerGIaP-j5sZ0A8wdOrj6BQKUxjtxewusDSlpmwUsxe0gTmkV9degkxPrNPg/s1600/20200130_192854.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5XaFLbKGV0Pa98nPi-87lCT4m5WAZ19VapvEBmzWLRsA2zCxJ9Rowuw9o3j1PxCqCW1vs_BRYKo2avzpTerGIaP-j5sZ0A8wdOrj6BQKUxjtxewusDSlpmwUsxe0gTmkV9degkxPrNPg/s320/20200130_192854.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
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This is where they keep the donuts. Pittsburgh HappyHourhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08344852771467844704noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5585147455199091179.post-34050853343577418632020-01-19T09:59:00.001-08:002020-01-19T10:00:19.471-08:00Sly Fox <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-B2eUXMcRjx637JBAX0KKJdoUMgVM5CCN5bKioy3gQx4EHkNZbzyY6vutOnCMXVOftN3KlyVLZjUVk6RXmk63HLVi_ZzVyPSNBcnG_LxQQVLaFG2l7gILVuM8naMIHrXj53mQRayxllo/s1600/BeFunky-collage.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="940" data-original-width="1600" height="233" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-B2eUXMcRjx637JBAX0KKJdoUMgVM5CCN5bKioy3gQx4EHkNZbzyY6vutOnCMXVOftN3KlyVLZjUVk6RXmk63HLVi_ZzVyPSNBcnG_LxQQVLaFG2l7gILVuM8naMIHrXj53mQRayxllo/s400/BeFunky-collage.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Don't get the chips.</td></tr>
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<a href="https://www.slyfoxbeer.com/pittsburgh_downtown">Sly Fox</a> is a dump. Their beer is just awful, their food is gross and you need a door code in order to use the restroom. If I wanted to use a door code to access the restroom I would hang out in a public park in Europe. Shame on you Sly Fox.<br />
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Pictured above are the world famous Sly Fox "chips and salsa." For only $5 (or $2.50 during happy hour) these delicious chips could be all yours. We are talking about some Costco bargain chips served with roughly 2oz of flavorless salsa and way too much sour cream. I cannot earnestly recommend these chips and salsa, even at the happy hour price point. <br />
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Happy hour at Sly Fox really isn't a bad deal as all of the appetizers and beer are discounted. However, everything kind of sucks so it isn't really a good deal either. Rashan had this sausage for $9. He said it wasn't awful, but I thought it was odd that they couldn't be bothered to bring him silverware or napkins with his meal.<br />
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The hefeweizen I tried tasted like bubblegum and the stout I tried was similarly lackluster. I think they should just stop making beer and sell Miller Lite.<br />
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The saddest thing about this whole ordeal is that Sly Fox is apparently opening a <a href="https://www.breweriesinpa.com/sly-fox-is-expanding-to-pittsburgh/">second Pittsburgh location</a> right by my house. I hope that they learn how to make beer before they open the doors.<br />
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I usually agree with <a href="https://www.pghcitypaper.com/pittsburgh/downtowns-sly-fox-is-a-departure-from-the-original/Content?oid=16344194">City Paper. </a>Their review of Sly Fox says, "Go to the Sly Fox at the Point for the craft beer that’s been around since 1995. Don't expect much from the food." I would politely add that you should also not expect very much from their craft beer.<br />
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<br />Pittsburgh HappyHourhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08344852771467844704noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5585147455199091179.post-23523210591984220382020-01-12T12:00:00.000-08:002020-01-15T04:40:40.908-08:00Mad Mex - Shadyside <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhysfpA8NPLdNt7Tb3SLrFPHqqyJEji4ITDCHCzfzMypdzT6TAZi_fGJl5b0Z8sPeF2oOedY18BGnWZZ7k61oe8bBf-juti3aaxmiPGSHI17W9N5z5HiJ3T3G5ZiPbSLD70FpHxKfbNjGc/s1600/20191126_174628.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhysfpA8NPLdNt7Tb3SLrFPHqqyJEji4ITDCHCzfzMypdzT6TAZi_fGJl5b0Z8sPeF2oOedY18BGnWZZ7k61oe8bBf-juti3aaxmiPGSHI17W9N5z5HiJ3T3G5ZiPbSLD70FpHxKfbNjGc/s640/20191126_174628.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Three sizes of inconsistent margarita specials.</td></tr>
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When your grade school teacher told you that math would be important throughout your life, she was not a liar. Mad Mex in Shadyside runs a daily happy hour from 4:30 until 6:30 that features margaritas and discounted drafts. I immediately noticed that the margarita pricing was wildly inconsistent.<br />
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I've done the math for you below so that you won't have to bother, but it makes the most sense to order the smallest size margarita. The special has diminishing returns as you order the larger sized margs. The three different sizes of glasses and the advertisement for the special are pictured above. It's worth noting that they don't even tell you the size of the "Big Azz Margarita" - but I'm pretty certain that is a 22 oz glass. What a fucking scam. <br />
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$3 12 oz - 25 cents per ounce<br />
$5 16 oz - 31 cents per ounce<br />
$7 Big Azz margarita - 22 oz - 32 cents per ounce<br />
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My friend Paul provided the plausible explanation that even with this knowledge some folks might still be inclined to order the larger size so as to be considerate of the staff. I personally recommend that you just order two 12 oz margaritas at a time so that you are getting the best rate. <br />
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A few notes about Mad Mex, they offer half off all drafts during happy hour. Unlike several clown bars around town whose beer selection consists of 42 different IPAs, Mad Mex usually has at least a few different styles of beer to choose from. <br />
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I highly recommend the boneless chicken wings. Mad Mex is one of the few places in town that has a bonafide de-boned chicken wing as opposed to a sauced up chicken tender.<br />
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<a href="https://www.zomato.com/pittsburgh/mad-mex-4-pittsburgh" target="_blank" title="View Menu, Reviews, Photos & Information about Mad Mex, Shadyside and other Restaurants in Pittsburgh"><img alt="Mad Mex Menu, Reviews, Photos, Location and Info - Zomato" src="https://www.zomato.com/logo/17042296/biglink" style="border: none; height: 146px; padding: 0; width: 200px;" /></a> Pittsburgh HappyHourhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08344852771467844704noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5585147455199091179.post-80298801294208014732020-01-11T14:06:00.001-08:002020-07-07T12:06:12.587-07:00Fet-Fisk - Organi Osteria - Dish<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjikAG9lHjopZnxZ_RtpJQxhWbF0bp_12rsQ4_SJSGNZmyBTkcx1FiUhsImK49iyY6R1zIRkC6IXJW-j98TrhY5ry3PoCP9pRetMftJXxqU4JgZHb8pdoBtyN6Rl6zJpyv_FMnZPXtBrkM/s1600/BeFunky-collage.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjikAG9lHjopZnxZ_RtpJQxhWbF0bp_12rsQ4_SJSGNZmyBTkcx1FiUhsImK49iyY6R1zIRkC6IXJW-j98TrhY5ry3PoCP9pRetMftJXxqU4JgZHb8pdoBtyN6Rl6zJpyv_FMnZPXtBrkM/s640/BeFunky-collage.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Organi Osteria</td></tr>
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I'm starting to think that I've lost relevance as a food blogger. After all, food blogs haven't been popular since 2010. It would seem that podcasts and vlogging are the wave of the future. (I'm not even sure the kids call it vlogging anymore.)<br />
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The perfect proof of my insignificance is that I've somehow never heard of <a href="https://www.fetfisk.net/">Fet-Fisk.</a> Fet-Fisk is a testament of the Pittsburgh restaurant scene transformation. They are a pop up dinner collaborative that takes place at an undisclosed location semi-regularly. I also do not believe that they disclose the menu prior to their events.<br />
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From their site:<br />
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<i>"we are not a restaurant. we are a group of friends who currently work in or have worked in restaurants, and we are kind of bummed on restaurants. </i></div>
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<i>we are a group of friends who want to bring other groups of friends together over delicious food, so we throw pop-up dinner parties. </i></div>
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<i>our dinner parties are recurring, and one-of-a-kind. our location changes. unique to each event, our menus highlight fresh seafood and regional produce. </i></div>
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<i>it is important to us for our food to be valued accessibly, and to include satisfying options for diets and restrictions. delicious food is important at FET-FISK.</i></div>
<i>FET-FISK means ‘greasy-fish’ in swedish"</i><br />
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I'm shocked that these guys could slip under my radar for so long. I really mean it when I say that I must not be cool anymore. Special thanks to my friend Katie for making me cooler. After taking a peek at their <a href="https://www.instagram.com/fet_fisk/">Instagram</a>, it appears that Fet-Fesk has been around for about one year.<br />
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The Fet-Fisk I had the pleasure of attending was at Dish Osteria and was an all organ/offal dinner titled, <a href="https://www.fetfisk.net/organi-osteria/admit-one-to-organi-osteria">Organi Osteria.</a> Although they have been closed the last couple of years, Dish recently reopened their doors in the historic South Side of Pittsburgh. I highly recommend checking them out, their food is fantastic. <br />
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In total we were served nine highly unique courses for $85. Honestly it was not a bad deal but it got expensive quickly as the drinks at Dish were about $10 a pop. Also, we ended up having quite a few drinks as the dinner was slow! The dinner was supposed to run from 7-10 pm but it ran past 11 pm. I'm not a European, I don't like 4 hour dinners. <br />
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Some of the amazing dishes we got to try incorporated head cheese, eyeballs, gonads, tendon, heart, blood and liver. This was not a dinner for the faint of heart and both the menu and the location were not disclosed ahead of time. I've posted the full menu below for your viewing pleasure.<br />
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My favorite courses were numbers 8, 4 and 6. Respectively, veal brains with tagliatelle, brown butter and iberian pepper - beef heart with foccacia and bitter greens and calf liver with guanciale and potato. I can't wait to go party with these folks again.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Full Menu</td></tr>
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<a href="https://www.zomato.com/pittsburgh/dish-osteria-bar-pittsburgh" target="_blank" title="View Menu, Reviews, Photos & Information about Dish Osteria & Bar, South Side and other Restaurants in Pittsburgh"><img alt="Dish Osteria & Bar Menu, Reviews, Photos, Location and Info - Zomato" src="https://www.zomato.com/logo/17036320/biglink" style="border: none; height: 146px; padding: 0; width: 200px;" /></a> Pittsburgh HappyHourhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08344852771467844704noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5585147455199091179.post-36104641150315244352020-01-07T09:35:00.002-08:002020-01-07T11:43:16.012-08:00Western PA Lamb Cook-Off 2019<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAyz-Wp8DDkeUN1SjfAJwODtv-sfgbdOwlozTTeMY8Mlax07a8mrWEhS0q0XysK3v1H6bUCjHtIb0yYQryhu5_oW6bqvph9cIobw0_rWw08DWUOAF9gkTT1elL3chP4QwqbP2P4IE_t6U/s1600/BeFunky-collage.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAyz-Wp8DDkeUN1SjfAJwODtv-sfgbdOwlozTTeMY8Mlax07a8mrWEhS0q0XysK3v1H6bUCjHtIb0yYQryhu5_oW6bqvph9cIobw0_rWw08DWUOAF9gkTT1elL3chP4QwqbP2P4IE_t6U/s640/BeFunky-collage.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">ALL OF THE LAMB</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Lamb Fest has grown massive within such a short span of time! From humble beginnings the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/26th-street-in-the-strip-between-railroad-and-smallman-streets/western-pa-lamb-cook-off-2019/450953219017452/">Western PA Lamb Cook-Off</a> is now an all out lamb extravaganza. By my count there were over 20 different lamb dishes you could sample. Unlike in previous years, vendors were extremely well stocked and there was no rush to try and get to all 10 stations. Guest chefs included:<br />
<br />
Jennifer Girasole (<a href="https://www.facebook.com/GirasolePgh/" target="_blank">Girasole</a>), Jessica Lewis (<a href="https://www.facebook.com/spiritsandtalespgh/" target="_blank">Spirits & Tales</a>), Kristin Butterworth (<a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Lautrec/123999984323384" target="_blank">Lautrec</a>), Julio Peraza (<a href="https://www.facebook.com/Floor2Pgh/" target="_blank">Floor 2</a> at <a href="https://www.facebook.com/FairmontPittsburgh/" target="_blank">Fairmont Pittsburgh</a>), Will Randall (<a href="https://www.facebook.com/MeatAndPotatoesPgh/" target="_blank">Meat & Potatoes</a>), Justin Steel (<a href="https://www.facebook.com/barmarcopgh/" target="_blank">Bar Marco</a>), Chris O'Brien (<a href="https://www.facebook.com/scratchpgh/" target="_blank">Scratch Food & Beverage</a>), Brian Hammond (<a href="https://www.facebook.com/SiempreAlgoPGH/" target="_blank">Siempre Algo</a>), Curtis Gamble (<a href="https://www.facebook.com/StationPgh/" target="_blank">Station</a>), Jon Sterrett (<a href="https://www.facebook.com/sentirestaurant/" target="_blank">Senti</a>), Derek Burnell (<a href="https://www.facebook.com/roundcornercantina/" target="_blank">Round Corner Cantina</a> and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/UmamiPgh/" target="_blank">Umami Pgh</a>), Roger Li (<a href="https://www.facebook.com/UmamiPgh/" target="_blank">Umami Pgh</a>and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/kiramenpgh/" target="_blank">Ki Ramen Pgh</a>), Dan Kern (<a href="https://www.facebook.com/1201kitchen/" target="_blank">1201 Kitchen</a>, Bird and Noosa in Erie), Lily Tran (<a href="https://www.facebook.com/SobaPittsburgh/" target="_blank">Soba</a>), Sam DiBattista (<a href="https://www.facebook.com/VivoPgh/" target="_blank">Vivo Restaurant</a>). Dom Branduzzi (<a href="https://www.facebook.com/Piccolo-Forno-42908425509/" target="_blank">Piccolo Forno</a> and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Grapperia/" target="_blank">Grapperia</a>), Justin Severino (<a href="https://www.facebook.com/morcillapgh/" target="_blank">Morcilla</a>), Michele Savoia (<a href="https://www.facebook.com/dishosteria/" target="_blank">Dish Osteria and Bar</a>), Anthony Falcon (<a href="https://www.facebook.com/eatgaucho/" target="_blank">Gaucho Parrilla Argentina</a>) and Nate Hobart (<a href="https://www.facebook.com/morcillapgh/" target="_blank">Morcilla</a>). For more on the participants see <a href="https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/the-western-pennsylvania-lamb-cook-off--festival-expands-to-pittsburghs-strip-district-in-year-3-with-a-line-up-of-34-all-star-chefs-300924546.html">PRNewswire. </a><br />
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<br />
I have to say that I was slightly disappointed by the judges. Usually I think the professionals get it right, but based on my tastes I just have to disagree. I've posted the top three winners below. By and large the judges tended to favor the chefs who made tacos. <br />
<br />
In particular I thought that Team 7 was overrated this year and I'm saddened that they are now the three time champions. I just could not get on board with their Lamb Robtaaki (lamb kebabs with various offal.) However, their taco was one of the better ones presented at the event.<br />
<br />
Personally, I thought the best dish of the day was the delicate lamb dumpling presented by Team 1. It was perfectly seasoned and just did such a nice job of showcasing the delicious lamb. <br />
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This is a top notch Pittsburgh culinary event. I would highly recommend it to anyone! This years winners are posted below.<br />
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<br />
<br />
Team 7:<br />
Roger Li <a class="profileLink" data-hovercard-prefer-more-content-show="1" data-hovercard="/ajax/hovercard/page.php?id=637808292987119&extragetparams=%7B%22__tn__%22%3A%22%2CdK-R-R%22%2C%22eid%22%3A%22ARClpI7C_oXrSfNsE4eNraWo8QzaF7F3WBb0Jpxa57JXL2D2uWng9b46CwJ8odBzShmHPUBUfdZlD1Nk%22%2C%22fref%22%3A%22mentions%22%7D" href="https://www.facebook.com/UmamiPgh/?__tn__=K-R&eid=ARClpI7C_oXrSfNsE4eNraWo8QzaF7F3WBb0Jpxa57JXL2D2uWng9b46CwJ8odBzShmHPUBUfdZlD1Nk&fref=mentions&__xts__%5B0%5D=68.ARArJTKrOu4EMm0lNxRg9zYqzcRv7JDQ3TfGYPmePGEoD2Ga2-gzSZcjOdOqlXmpnQA7Mg91pzoqH4_kZCGxXtgdbSqapCR_-f743xLAkhViC-5m1-IntichTHA5tkyoREjYFimIOBno8M_8im6gsOhDhcwZ5C77IxASe8IyZHTnDFVdHpn9RU1y_kdeAns83UGgeDxmWkgF0jEWNocMCDbVgnbHdXuBxDsQ_eCD9x5-LTQ-0ejvAPc5igwG2qJXW8DFF0EvjGFxAm1gQFjNniketl1fmSUdd8Yla-GGqcIv40fZG4P0cijw9P5SGkrKr12_hFdX4rkab_i6G7CmFXGCxVS7">Umami Pgh</a> & <a class="profileLink" data-hovercard-prefer-more-content-show="1" data-hovercard="/ajax/hovercard/page.php?id=1734328160154190&extragetparams=%7B%22__tn__%22%3A%22%2CdK-R-R%22%2C%22eid%22%3A%22ARA7fd2vTlomE33rgzyM67MoVD3B462enX4ARJg-lMv46n45BzNNM5JIx3-bzXq88rZkElwv3WvQAf0X%22%2C%22fref%22%3A%22mentions%22%7D" href="https://www.facebook.com/kiramenpgh/?__tn__=K-R&eid=ARA7fd2vTlomE33rgzyM67MoVD3B462enX4ARJg-lMv46n45BzNNM5JIx3-bzXq88rZkElwv3WvQAf0X&fref=mentions&__xts__%5B0%5D=68.ARArJTKrOu4EMm0lNxRg9zYqzcRv7JDQ3TfGYPmePGEoD2Ga2-gzSZcjOdOqlXmpnQA7Mg91pzoqH4_kZCGxXtgdbSqapCR_-f743xLAkhViC-5m1-IntichTHA5tkyoREjYFimIOBno8M_8im6gsOhDhcwZ5C77IxASe8IyZHTnDFVdHpn9RU1y_kdeAns83UGgeDxmWkgF0jEWNocMCDbVgnbHdXuBxDsQ_eCD9x5-LTQ-0ejvAPc5igwG2qJXW8DFF0EvjGFxAm1gQFjNniketl1fmSUdd8Yla-GGqcIv40fZG4P0cijw9P5SGkrKr12_hFdX4rkab_i6G7CmFXGCxVS7">Ki Ramen Pgh</a><br />
Dan Kern of <a class="profileLink" data-hovercard-prefer-more-content-show="1" data-hovercard="/ajax/hovercard/page.php?id=102412098947&extragetparams=%7B%22__tn__%22%3A%22%2CdK-R-R%22%2C%22eid%22%3A%22ARAhy3xpbZADu0ISzqtNEX2OBRAcQVzkQZcQhkBFaHPYHabQTef7KHwCXVdVkZ_19TM9x5aa1riQsdEH%22%2C%22fref%22%3A%22mentions%22%7D" href="https://www.facebook.com/1201kitchen/?__tn__=K-R&eid=ARAhy3xpbZADu0ISzqtNEX2OBRAcQVzkQZcQhkBFaHPYHabQTef7KHwCXVdVkZ_19TM9x5aa1riQsdEH&fref=mentions&__xts__%5B0%5D=68.ARArJTKrOu4EMm0lNxRg9zYqzcRv7JDQ3TfGYPmePGEoD2Ga2-gzSZcjOdOqlXmpnQA7Mg91pzoqH4_kZCGxXtgdbSqapCR_-f743xLAkhViC-5m1-IntichTHA5tkyoREjYFimIOBno8M_8im6gsOhDhcwZ5C77IxASe8IyZHTnDFVdHpn9RU1y_kdeAns83UGgeDxmWkgF0jEWNocMCDbVgnbHdXuBxDsQ_eCD9x5-LTQ-0ejvAPc5igwG2qJXW8DFF0EvjGFxAm1gQFjNniketl1fmSUdd8Yla-GGqcIv40fZG4P0cijw9P5SGkrKr12_hFdX4rkab_i6G7CmFXGCxVS7">1201 Kitchen</a> <a class="profileLink" data-hovercard-prefer-more-content-show="1" data-hovercard="/ajax/hovercard/page.php?id=188842018270879&extragetparams=%7B%22__tn__%22%3A%22%2CdK-R-R%22%2C%22eid%22%3A%22ARBMxCZeMTiJPmxh_M6FeNqp5SIwg1gRRoUc42EBoLqfDnEmnlfBGfgy2LaQM_5gS8H67NPOeYBlaJ_t%22%2C%22fref%22%3A%22mentions%22%7D" href="https://www.facebook.com/noosanortheast/?__tn__=K-R&eid=ARBMxCZeMTiJPmxh_M6FeNqp5SIwg1gRRoUc42EBoLqfDnEmnlfBGfgy2LaQM_5gS8H67NPOeYBlaJ_t&fref=mentions&__xts__%5B0%5D=68.ARArJTKrOu4EMm0lNxRg9zYqzcRv7JDQ3TfGYPmePGEoD2Ga2-gzSZcjOdOqlXmpnQA7Mg91pzoqH4_kZCGxXtgdbSqapCR_-f743xLAkhViC-5m1-IntichTHA5tkyoREjYFimIOBno8M_8im6gsOhDhcwZ5C77IxASe8IyZHTnDFVdHpn9RU1y_kdeAns83UGgeDxmWkgF0jEWNocMCDbVgnbHdXuBxDsQ_eCD9x5-LTQ-0ejvAPc5igwG2qJXW8DFF0EvjGFxAm1gQFjNniketl1fmSUdd8Yla-GGqcIv40fZG4P0cijw9P5SGkrKr12_hFdX4rkab_i6G7CmFXGCxVS7">Noosa North East</a> & <a class="profileLink" data-hovercard-prefer-more-content-show="1" data-hovercard="/ajax/hovercard/page.php?id=655183837968636&extragetparams=%7B%22__tn__%22%3A%22%2CdK-R-R%22%2C%22eid%22%3A%22ARCrvUVY_yRomH7gcc0oR48wT4Y4R-S7C-wY08nhHL6Hj88b3AVUFgZaECCEcoPj1rLyElzN-whYwGq8%22%2C%22fref%22%3A%22mentions%22%7D" href="https://www.facebook.com/birdat520/?__tn__=K-R&eid=ARCrvUVY_yRomH7gcc0oR48wT4Y4R-S7C-wY08nhHL6Hj88b3AVUFgZaECCEcoPj1rLyElzN-whYwGq8&fref=mentions&__xts__%5B0%5D=68.ARArJTKrOu4EMm0lNxRg9zYqzcRv7JDQ3TfGYPmePGEoD2Ga2-gzSZcjOdOqlXmpnQA7Mg91pzoqH4_kZCGxXtgdbSqapCR_-f743xLAkhViC-5m1-IntichTHA5tkyoREjYFimIOBno8M_8im6gsOhDhcwZ5C77IxASe8IyZHTnDFVdHpn9RU1y_kdeAns83UGgeDxmWkgF0jEWNocMCDbVgnbHdXuBxDsQ_eCD9x5-LTQ-0ejvAPc5igwG2qJXW8DFF0EvjGFxAm1gQFjNniketl1fmSUdd8Yla-GGqcIv40fZG4P0cijw9P5SGkrKr12_hFdX4rkab_i6G7CmFXGCxVS7">Bird</a><br />
Derek Burnell of <a class="profileLink" data-hovercard-prefer-more-content-show="1" data-hovercard="/ajax/hovercard/page.php?id=136335167813&extragetparams=%7B%22__tn__%22%3A%22%2CdK-R-R%22%2C%22eid%22%3A%22ARB8kNZjAWWZZ-aVW5TajYbEstuvjeUQppCMCkzzet5nzp2ke8Dy8U8iJlq2Zxy2J0q35Qg9w-RWSxwJ%22%2C%22fref%22%3A%22mentions%22%7D" href="https://www.facebook.com/roundcornercantina/?__tn__=K-R&eid=ARB8kNZjAWWZZ-aVW5TajYbEstuvjeUQppCMCkzzet5nzp2ke8Dy8U8iJlq2Zxy2J0q35Qg9w-RWSxwJ&fref=mentions&__xts__%5B0%5D=68.ARArJTKrOu4EMm0lNxRg9zYqzcRv7JDQ3TfGYPmePGEoD2Ga2-gzSZcjOdOqlXmpnQA7Mg91pzoqH4_kZCGxXtgdbSqapCR_-f743xLAkhViC-5m1-IntichTHA5tkyoREjYFimIOBno8M_8im6gsOhDhcwZ5C77IxASe8IyZHTnDFVdHpn9RU1y_kdeAns83UGgeDxmWkgF0jEWNocMCDbVgnbHdXuBxDsQ_eCD9x5-LTQ-0ejvAPc5igwG2qJXW8DFF0EvjGFxAm1gQFjNniketl1fmSUdd8Yla-GGqcIv40fZG4P0cijw9P5SGkrKr12_hFdX4rkab_i6G7CmFXGCxVS7">Round Corner Cantina</a> & Umami Pgh<span class="text_exposed_show"><br />
AKA The Most Hated Players took home the 1st place title for their
third year in a row. This undefeated team served three different lamb
dishes including <br /> - Lamb Robatayaki <br /> - Lamb Tacos<br /> - Crispy Lamb</span><br />
<div class="text_exposed_show">
<br />
Team 5:<br />
Chris O’Brien of <a class="profileLink" data-hovercard-prefer-more-content-show="1" data-hovercard="/ajax/hovercard/page.php?id=778359082277589&extragetparams=%7B%22__tn__%22%3A%22%2CdK-R-R%22%2C%22eid%22%3A%22ARCXapGt2xPRpKu59KYDLfRRAU3Op0IjwpukHkP8nsYEBVuby_S6KCIAh864sjJ1AAf1cfpriYSAQmXP%22%2C%22fref%22%3A%22mentions%22%7D" href="https://www.facebook.com/scratchpgh/?__tn__=K-R&eid=ARCXapGt2xPRpKu59KYDLfRRAU3Op0IjwpukHkP8nsYEBVuby_S6KCIAh864sjJ1AAf1cfpriYSAQmXP&fref=mentions&__xts__%5B0%5D=68.ARArJTKrOu4EMm0lNxRg9zYqzcRv7JDQ3TfGYPmePGEoD2Ga2-gzSZcjOdOqlXmpnQA7Mg91pzoqH4_kZCGxXtgdbSqapCR_-f743xLAkhViC-5m1-IntichTHA5tkyoREjYFimIOBno8M_8im6gsOhDhcwZ5C77IxASe8IyZHTnDFVdHpn9RU1y_kdeAns83UGgeDxmWkgF0jEWNocMCDbVgnbHdXuBxDsQ_eCD9x5-LTQ-0ejvAPc5igwG2qJXW8DFF0EvjGFxAm1gQFjNniketl1fmSUdd8Yla-GGqcIv40fZG4P0cijw9P5SGkrKr12_hFdX4rkab_i6G7CmFXGCxVS7">Scratch Food & Beverage</a><br />
Josh Ross of <a class="profileLink" data-hovercard-prefer-more-content-show="1" data-hovercard="/ajax/hovercard/page.php?id=2203393059923117&extragetparams=%7B%22__tn__%22%3A%22%2CdK-R-R%22%2C%22eid%22%3A%22ARB_WHgFV-zVwa8CqrLxHXRrw63ol0q4rT-yZ4mjlvx6eAomDe8gAZyUTB1iM55X4tyb0xSEkDfREdm_%22%2C%22fref%22%3A%22mentions%22%7D" href="https://www.facebook.com/ConAlmaPgh/?__tn__=K-R&eid=ARB_WHgFV-zVwa8CqrLxHXRrw63ol0q4rT-yZ4mjlvx6eAomDe8gAZyUTB1iM55X4tyb0xSEkDfREdm_&fref=mentions&__xts__%5B0%5D=68.ARArJTKrOu4EMm0lNxRg9zYqzcRv7JDQ3TfGYPmePGEoD2Ga2-gzSZcjOdOqlXmpnQA7Mg91pzoqH4_kZCGxXtgdbSqapCR_-f743xLAkhViC-5m1-IntichTHA5tkyoREjYFimIOBno8M_8im6gsOhDhcwZ5C77IxASe8IyZHTnDFVdHpn9RU1y_kdeAns83UGgeDxmWkgF0jEWNocMCDbVgnbHdXuBxDsQ_eCD9x5-LTQ-0ejvAPc5igwG2qJXW8DFF0EvjGFxAm1gQFjNniketl1fmSUdd8Yla-GGqcIv40fZG4P0cijw9P5SGkrKr12_hFdX4rkab_i6G7CmFXGCxVS7">Con Alma</a><br />
Julio Peraza of <a class="profileLink" data-hovercard-prefer-more-content-show="1" data-hovercard="/ajax/hovercard/page.php?id=1320439331407610&extragetparams=%7B%22__tn__%22%3A%22%2CdK-R-R%22%2C%22eid%22%3A%22ARALzgue6Djob3QqozqoWmnCZwikF7uXzIBm2nBjefJOrBEx1rHlb2e1XEShuVRh_SiCGVXmz2vLfHIR%22%2C%22fref%22%3A%22mentions%22%7D" href="https://www.facebook.com/Floor2Pgh/?__tn__=K-R&eid=ARALzgue6Djob3QqozqoWmnCZwikF7uXzIBm2nBjefJOrBEx1rHlb2e1XEShuVRh_SiCGVXmz2vLfHIR&fref=mentions&__xts__%5B0%5D=68.ARArJTKrOu4EMm0lNxRg9zYqzcRv7JDQ3TfGYPmePGEoD2Ga2-gzSZcjOdOqlXmpnQA7Mg91pzoqH4_kZCGxXtgdbSqapCR_-f743xLAkhViC-5m1-IntichTHA5tkyoREjYFimIOBno8M_8im6gsOhDhcwZ5C77IxASe8IyZHTnDFVdHpn9RU1y_kdeAns83UGgeDxmWkgF0jEWNocMCDbVgnbHdXuBxDsQ_eCD9x5-LTQ-0ejvAPc5igwG2qJXW8DFF0EvjGFxAm1gQFjNniketl1fmSUdd8Yla-GGqcIv40fZG4P0cijw9P5SGkrKr12_hFdX4rkab_i6G7CmFXGCxVS7">Floor 2</a><br />
David Devoss of Sewickley Tavern <br />
Took second place with Barbacoa Lamb Tacos <br />
<br />
Team 8:<br />
Kristen Butterworth <br />
Patrick Duffy<br />
Kareen Brown<br />
Kylie Zaccagni<br />
Team <a class="profileLink" data-hovercard-prefer-more-content-show="1" data-hovercard="/ajax/hovercard/page.php?id=66068474115&extragetparams=%7B%22__tn__%22%3A%22%2CdK-R-R%22%2C%22eid%22%3A%22ARDVuSIpzOa2KMBcmLyP1mlIRbxurjInw8mSZk9P6ZV7r6c8T7tfCsqE4ZjHt6KtXbHYQi249W54aUVX%22%2C%22fref%22%3A%22mentions%22%7D" href="https://www.facebook.com/Nemacolin/?__tn__=K-R&eid=ARDVuSIpzOa2KMBcmLyP1mlIRbxurjInw8mSZk9P6ZV7r6c8T7tfCsqE4ZjHt6KtXbHYQi249W54aUVX&fref=mentions&__xts__%5B0%5D=68.ARArJTKrOu4EMm0lNxRg9zYqzcRv7JDQ3TfGYPmePGEoD2Ga2-gzSZcjOdOqlXmpnQA7Mg91pzoqH4_kZCGxXtgdbSqapCR_-f743xLAkhViC-5m1-IntichTHA5tkyoREjYFimIOBno8M_8im6gsOhDhcwZ5C77IxASe8IyZHTnDFVdHpn9RU1y_kdeAns83UGgeDxmWkgF0jEWNocMCDbVgnbHdXuBxDsQ_eCD9x5-LTQ-0ejvAPc5igwG2qJXW8DFF0EvjGFxAm1gQFjNniketl1fmSUdd8Yla-GGqcIv40fZG4P0cijw9P5SGkrKr12_hFdX4rkab_i6G7CmFXGCxVS7">Nemacolin Woodlands Resort</a> come in 3rd with their <br />
Braised Lamb Leg Tacos and their adorable Lamb Fat, Sugar Cookies </div>
Pittsburgh HappyHourhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08344852771467844704noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5585147455199091179.post-20901546097882688402019-06-13T05:32:00.000-07:002019-06-13T10:05:01.930-07:00Penn Brewery First Ave Taproom and Kitchen<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqYIBenehcDT_0VPrw9BHC6HzkV7zZxySZE9_6SZJ8vTLCdMg4QCFqlLgMVlLx2dOs_rihR9fBIhYgpgXWAaEDXtCTPB5zsXQ6awN5knCP2GG6XMeiy9uul9IbyLs5VygkqLUqvmY7XaQ/s1600/Resized_20190606_173449.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqYIBenehcDT_0VPrw9BHC6HzkV7zZxySZE9_6SZJ8vTLCdMg4QCFqlLgMVlLx2dOs_rihR9fBIhYgpgXWAaEDXtCTPB5zsXQ6awN5knCP2GG6XMeiy9uul9IbyLs5VygkqLUqvmY7XaQ/s640/Resized_20190606_173449.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Want to talk about an unmitigated disaster?! Let's talk about Penn Brewery's new Taproom downtown. So I spent several weeks talking with one of their employees in order to setup an extended happy hour. He said it would be no problem to extend their specials until 7pm. On the day of the event he was a no show and the manager said the offer to extend could not be honored. The manager said that his computer system would not allow him to extend the special. (We've actually heard this a variety of times from other establishments.) What a disappointment.<br />
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If you manage to make happy hour the special includes $2 off all drafts and $6 wings and pretzels. The meat plate, pictured above, wasn't half bad. The Taproom only serves Penn Brewery products, they also had an Arsenal Cider on tap.<br />
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The manager was very nice and the staff was very helpful as well. However, I never got the chicken wings that I ordered. I tried one of my friend's wing and it wasn't particularly good, so I decided to just let it go. At least they didn't try to charge me for the wings that I never received.<br />
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Overall, it is a very nice bar even though it is small and located in an odd space. I'd recommend waiting to visit until they get a bit more settled. It took them too long figure out our tabs at the end of the evening, I think they just aren't well situated for larger groups at the moment. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiclR1zamTeAul4hAP-ODcEi-KTz33PMBfoSesfP6hIt0cXGYnwI2-Xpsg4GP6m8FDS7lI3zpt7sXlprlqa15d9ZJm-VBh9b_EGBtCKivVDhgGf-8uOJRhKcRpHCB34o0GukPbvKGXMp3E/s1600/Resized_20190606_174046.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiclR1zamTeAul4hAP-ODcEi-KTz33PMBfoSesfP6hIt0cXGYnwI2-Xpsg4GP6m8FDS7lI3zpt7sXlprlqa15d9ZJm-VBh9b_EGBtCKivVDhgGf-8uOJRhKcRpHCB34o0GukPbvKGXMp3E/s400/Resized_20190606_174046.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">These were the bad wings.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />Pittsburgh HappyHourhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08344852771467844704noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5585147455199091179.post-2880981634408443002019-05-16T03:59:00.003-07:002019-05-16T03:59:40.760-07:00Sheetz #projectcoffeehopz<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDCmuGaEG-wGFNfJHysxR6JHolztk6XU4UKLJc5cznCuKHwf_0fQ3B2ZMjxQi8qHOP3YF2z6N8Z5pEbTL38WMb2iGL0qqbUKii8RnXShruIw_j9k6yR_baIiKseXl1Z7WLxw4DM6V14DA/s1600/BeFunky-LOcalmarkyB.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDCmuGaEG-wGFNfJHysxR6JHolztk6XU4UKLJc5cznCuKHwf_0fQ3B2ZMjxQi8qHOP3YF2z6N8Z5pEbTL38WMb2iGL0qqbUKii8RnXShruIw_j9k6yR_baIiKseXl1Z7WLxw4DM6V14DA/s640/BeFunky-LOcalmarkyB.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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We were fortunate enough to be invited to the unavailing of a new Sheetz product! <a class="_58cn" data-ft="{"type":104,"tn":"*N"}" href="https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/projectcoffeehopz?source=feed_text&epa=HASHTAG"><span class="_5afx"><span aria-label="hashtag" class="_58cl _5afz">#</span><span class="_58cm">projectcoffeehopz</span></span></a> is a special product release by Sheetz and Rusty Rail Brewing - they've unleashed an IPA flavored with coffee. You can now get the product at select Sheetz, more information is available <a href="https://www.sheetz.com/rustyRail">here</a>.<br />
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It was very smooth and pretty tasty! They were also kind enough to provide us with some wonderful treats. Some of our favorite dishes throughout the night were the pierogi pot stickers, the warm doughnut bites, and the crispy bacon pops. Overall it was a great event and we were very fortunate to be included! The event was hosted by J Verno Studios, check out a great video of us scaring our friend below.<br />
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Great job Sheetz and Rusty Rail! I can't wait to see what you guys think up next. <br />
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<br />Pittsburgh HappyHourhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08344852771467844704noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5585147455199091179.post-35731513007572811582019-05-03T05:25:00.001-07:002019-05-03T05:35:19.323-07:00Chili Cook Off<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYtLjVxBgTelS6Dlpru-P1Aerq5Nr09nax5IJsZOPCxg6CQi-RHPZQBZFWaf2WEG9BqjLfEqbZpDzxhiP67XNU3elgcD8_k9li8ZpmRyVmM4qHGkn2Euc1UKJ1u-vXnaNqPUAjKeUQhmA/s1600/BeFunky-collagechili.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="890" data-original-width="1600" height="354" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYtLjVxBgTelS6Dlpru-P1Aerq5Nr09nax5IJsZOPCxg6CQi-RHPZQBZFWaf2WEG9BqjLfEqbZpDzxhiP67XNU3elgcD8_k9li8ZpmRyVmM4qHGkn2Euc1UKJ1u-vXnaNqPUAjKeUQhmA/s640/BeFunky-collagechili.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Since I know you ingrates are only here to read the rankings and then disagree with me even though you didn't try any of the chili, I've placed the rankings at the top of this post. Please continue below to read my notes on each chili and my thoughts on the first annual <a href="http://www.chilicookoffpgh.com/">South Side Chili Cook-Off</a>. Overall, it was a great time!<br />
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Here are the rankings you ungrateful cretins. <br />
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1. <a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/white-eagle-pittsburgh">White Eagle</a> (Chef Steven Michalak)<br />
2. <a href="http://www.smiling-moose.com/htm/">Smiling Moose</a><br />
3. <a href="http://ruggerspub.com/">Rugger's Pub</a><br />
4. <a href="https://www.tikiloungepgh.com/">Tiki Lounge</a> (<a href="https://www.ckpgh.org/">Community Kitchen Pgh</a>)<br />
5. <a href="https://www.twelvepgh.com/">12 Whiskey BBQ</a><br />
6. <a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/1311-pittsburgh">1311</a><br />
7. <a href="https://southsidebbqcompany.com/">South Side BBQ</a><br />
8. <a href="https://mariospgh.com/southside/">Mario's</a><br />
9. <a href="http://www.theflatsoncarson.com/">The Flats</a><br />
10. <a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/caseys-draft-house-pittsburgh-2">Casey's</a> <br />
11. <a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/cupkas-cafe-ii-pittsburgh">Cupka's 2</a><br />
12. <a href="https://primantibros.com/locations/south-side">Primanti's</a><br />
13. <a href="https://www.doublewidegrill.com/">Double Wide</a><br />
14. <a href="https://archiesoncarson.com/">Archie's</a><br />
15. <a href="https://www.steelcactuspgh.com/southsidespecials">Steel Cactus</a><br />
16. <a href="https://localbar.com/southside/index.htm">Local</a><br />
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1. <a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/white-eagle-pittsburgh">White Eagle</a> (Chef Steven Michalak)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicN_P1OCVSaTil_Z15DGvYbAfmek0w2yMaEVTfcDdsXi3etoWlFD6DOiW_dW_GDcLGB3HtkgF4ZDA7WzNPD83UUxjbKOa-vu42qLT4KhCrCak_ZiZYBVR4lMbltTIJmUha5sYwk_06UTI/s1600/white+eagle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicN_P1OCVSaTil_Z15DGvYbAfmek0w2yMaEVTfcDdsXi3etoWlFD6DOiW_dW_GDcLGB3HtkgF4ZDA7WzNPD83UUxjbKOa-vu42qLT4KhCrCak_ZiZYBVR4lMbltTIJmUha5sYwk_06UTI/s320/white+eagle.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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So chef Steven was described to me as a traveling chef. He explained that in the past he had worked as an executive chef for Garth Brooks, among a number of other different celebs.<br />
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His chili was phenomenal. Top finest, best in show. For my money, it could have had less beans. However, he still managed to best every goon in the South Side in terms of chili quality. It is not good for our neighborhood that an outsider won the competition, but such is life.<br />
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Chef used hot sausage, ground beef and pineapple to make a remarkable chili that really stood apart from the rest. Apparently Gina, the owner of the White Eagle, is a second mother to him. What a beautiful world. <br />
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2. <a href="http://www.smiling-moose.com/htm/">Smiling Moose</a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD7JDMX3tnOv8dHlHTLet6T-XtSiZbtGKFHtsmNLo3pEo6rt06F7Crzg8KTXISwO_ayTbIh_BkX5EhiOw8CDh8_Il2Va13CqT9Rg8d7gfC6GDCvJSlkm7iJzvEvDHurSK-k-Hflh_55ts/s1600/Smiling+Moose.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD7JDMX3tnOv8dHlHTLet6T-XtSiZbtGKFHtsmNLo3pEo6rt06F7Crzg8KTXISwO_ayTbIh_BkX5EhiOw8CDh8_Il2Va13CqT9Rg8d7gfC6GDCvJSlkm7iJzvEvDHurSK-k-Hflh_55ts/s320/Smiling+Moose.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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Smiling Moose consistently puts out some of the best food in the South Side. I'm always impressed that a bar that has so much going on in terms of live entertainment finds the time to put together such good food. The chef called their chili WOW chili because it makes you say WOW. It was a mixture of beef and pork with a tequila lime sour cream and a very sweet and tangy flavor profile. It had a really fantastic flavor profile, but I could not rank it number one as it was too sweet for my liking. (I understand though chef, you have to cook for the public!)<br />
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<a href="https://www.zomato.com/pittsburgh/smiling-moose-pittsburgh" target="_blank" title="View Menu, Reviews, Photos & Information about Smiling Moose, South Side and other Restaurants in Pittsburgh"><img alt="Smiling Moose Menu, Reviews, Photos, Location and Info - Zomato" src="https://www.zomato.com/logo/17041820/minilink" style="border: none; height: 36px; padding: 0px; width: 130px;" /></a>
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3. <a href="http://ruggerspub.com/">Rugger's Pub</a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiy1cx-S-Ke6CzxS08GtBQXPxajWdVwTLfxYpZ_migH9zw2eGUPmqCepmYOaQ29lv5abljg3wzVIFFUPfqw7L0mjXx5d-vQ70yshYp81UhAswMRLSGmsMiOWfx99-YXsgWX69o0mhlmaU/s1600/Ruggers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiy1cx-S-Ke6CzxS08GtBQXPxajWdVwTLfxYpZ_migH9zw2eGUPmqCepmYOaQ29lv5abljg3wzVIFFUPfqw7L0mjXx5d-vQ70yshYp81UhAswMRLSGmsMiOWfx99-YXsgWX69o0mhlmaU/s640/Ruggers.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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The people that hang out at Ruggers and the people that work at Ruggers are my people. If I could change one thing about the South Side, I would move Ruggers closer to my home. <a href="http://www.pittsburghhappyhour.com/2012/05/ruggers-pub.html">I love them and their food is so good.</a> They had a smoky beef chili with fire roasted tomatoes. It needed more heat, but it was great. Better than the chili you make at home, you slob. <br />
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<a href="https://www.zomato.com/pittsburgh/ruggers-pub-pittsburgh" target="_blank" title="View Menu, Reviews, Photos & Information about Ruggers Pub, South Side and other Restaurants in Pittsburgh"><img alt="Ruggers Pub Menu, Reviews, Photos, Location and Info - Zomato" src="https://www.zomato.com/logo/17041258/minilink" style="border: none; height: 36px; padding: 0px; width: 130px;" /></a>
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4. <a href="https://www.tikiloungepgh.com/">Tiki Lounge</a> (<a href="https://www.ckpgh.org/">Community Kitchen Pgh</a>)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnWKYOltFmaUVo-mAKcifMfDNyrBlkS3bi6CJmlOvZarY88LK_xOEZWX2KDK5Gwob9PumOJyunhOxcjEt9CDNSil-I75_-DZ5fP2TtTYsPYRO4I4-dZxPH9Od-70IiRmPpZEBUVz2Cqgk/s1600/tiki.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnWKYOltFmaUVo-mAKcifMfDNyrBlkS3bi6CJmlOvZarY88LK_xOEZWX2KDK5Gwob9PumOJyunhOxcjEt9CDNSil-I75_-DZ5fP2TtTYsPYRO4I4-dZxPH9Od-70IiRmPpZEBUVz2Cqgk/s320/tiki.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Tiki Lounge. What a place. One time some girl tried to fuck me in the closet on the landing in between the first and second floor. I didn't put out. The same night she left me and found her current spouse. Isn't life a trip?<br />
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I wanted to rank this chili higher, it was remarkable. Top round with a mole sauce, great sized chunks of meat. The best meat in the entire competition. They made their chili with no beans, it was awesome. This was one of the finest chilis of the day. Also, they are supporting a great cause. Community Kitchen helps people transition into the workforce after incarceration. If you desire a better world, you should support them. (<a href="https://www.ckpgh.org/">Community Kitchen Pgh</a>)<br />
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5. <a href="https://www.twelvepgh.com/">12 Whiskey BBQ</a><br />
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Twelve Whiskey BBQ was my first stop of the tour. Their chili was wonderful, it was made with a blend of brisket and pork and it had a heavy tomato base and light beans. The server told me that it was made by his father, the proprietor of the establishment. This chili was so good it could have easily been in the top three.<br />
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<a href="https://www.zomato.com/pittsburgh/twelve-whiskey-barbecue-south-side" target="_blank" title="View Menu, Reviews, Photos & Information about Twelve Whiskey Barbecue, South Side and other Restaurants in Pittsburgh"><img alt="Twelve Whiskey Barbecue Menu, Reviews, Photos, Location and Info - Zomato" src="https://www.zomato.com/logo/18441399/minilink" style="border: none; height: 36px; padding: 0px; width: 130px;" /></a>
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6. <a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/1311-pittsburgh">1311</a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgei89gW-UG_d1vXqoQxa0ZLE5We3lIcqsXoFrrTU_2Vgvh7HikQVMuyggleyxKCliSH-4tLna4YWHjOncj4iAZ5YqHS4O-5FYHSHHKFG93CCfXXm1ZLBcAOYZUxmi9YPeIjIbNp8cyGDE/s1600/1311.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgei89gW-UG_d1vXqoQxa0ZLE5We3lIcqsXoFrrTU_2Vgvh7HikQVMuyggleyxKCliSH-4tLna4YWHjOncj4iAZ5YqHS4O-5FYHSHHKFG93CCfXXm1ZLBcAOYZUxmi9YPeIjIbNp8cyGDE/s320/1311.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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1311 is an establishment that I've been frequenting for many years. It is one of the <a href="http://www.pittsburghhappyhour.com/2013/04/1311.html">most fun bars in the South Side</a> and the bartenders are great. Their chili had my favorite spice profile of the day, it was nice and hot and it left my lips tingly and warm. It was a bit heavy on the beans for my tastes which is the only reason I did not rank it higher. The types of meat used to make the chili were unknown to the bartenders.<br />
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Apparently the owner of 1311 made the chili and is a well trained cook. Kristi told me that he used to work at a restaurant called <a href="https://pastatoorestaurant.com/">Pasta Too in Bethel Park</a> and it is one of the best restaurants in town. Watch out ladies on dating apps, swipe right on me and you might be going to Pasta Too in the near future. <br />
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<a href="https://www.zomato.com/pittsburgh/1311-pittsburgh" target="_blank" title="View Menu, Reviews, Photos & Information about 1311, South Side and other Restaurants in Pittsburgh"><img alt="1311 Menu, Reviews, Photos, Location and Info - Zomato" src="https://www.zomato.com/logo/17043083/minilink" style="border: none; height: 36px; padding: 0px; width: 130px;" /></a>
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7. <a href="https://southsidebbqcompany.com/">South Side BBQ</a><br />
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South Side BBQ is a real staple of the neighborhood, we've <a href="http://www.pittsburghhappyhour.com/2014/10/southside-bbq-company.html">visited for happy hour in the past</a>. They had one of the more unique dishes of the day as they were serving their smoked brisket chili with a sprinkle of optional ghost pepper dust. The smoke flavor really came through and the ghost pepper dust added a delightful bite - it really kicked me in the nasal passage. My only complaint is that the chili was too bean heavy and my sampling cup didn't have enough meat! Bonus points for allowing guests to ring the bell if they tried the ghost pepper dust. <br />
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<a href="https://www.zomato.com/pittsburgh/south-side-bbq-pittsburgh" target="_blank" title="View Menu, Reviews, Photos & Information about South Side BBQ, South Side and other Restaurants in Pittsburgh"><img alt="South Side BBQ Menu, Reviews, Photos, Location and Info - Zomato" src="https://www.zomato.com/logo/17043707/minilink" style="border: none; height: 36px; padding: 0px; width: 130px;" /></a>
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8. <a href="https://mariospgh.com/southside/">Mario's</a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyoycbOHnxzU2DmeTV3gYnAC07VmcYSLHOQWZbGSzeICcOXrPcemJwXCRxGboGCvZ5R_Gk_3aOGpfiOtebawp5tj6mkp-pA7AC125i45gXeSH3HvsMcUYbF9EcWhfuyp46q418-Z9Q4Y8/s1600/Marios.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyoycbOHnxzU2DmeTV3gYnAC07VmcYSLHOQWZbGSzeICcOXrPcemJwXCRxGboGCvZ5R_Gk_3aOGpfiOtebawp5tj6mkp-pA7AC125i45gXeSH3HvsMcUYbF9EcWhfuyp46q418-Z9Q4Y8/s320/Marios.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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Mario's is always a solid spot. We've been visiting them for happy hour for many years. In case you are wondering, <a href="http://www.pittsburghhappyhour.com/2012/08/marios-southside-is-winner.html">Mario's South Side is better than Mario's East Side</a> and we ran the math to prove it. The type of meat used in the Mario's chili was unknown to our server as the chef had left for the day. I tasted cumin and possibly hot sausage. My chili sidekick Mark described the chili as, "very conventional." He was correct. <br />
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<a href="https://www.zomato.com/pittsburgh/marios-southside-saloon-blue-lous-pittsburgh" target="_blank" title="View Menu, Reviews, Photos & Information about Mario's Southside Saloon/Blue Lou's, South Side and other Restaurants in Pittsburgh"><img alt="Mario's Southside Saloon/Blue Lou's Menu, Reviews, Photos, Location and Info - Zomato" src="https://www.zomato.com/logo/17036862/minilink" style="border: none; height: 36px; padding: 0px; width: 130px;" /></a>
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9. <a href="http://www.theflatsoncarson.com/">The Flats</a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFPwVhgtDC1tFoSmQO0CEZoylrbPKz4-uwoNNIyl7YKmL1HmHiCDNqrEBS0dPuAfsLQRU1p6vzelSICLVGNQGGCR_cV5TGCeRSUdUtE8h8GmN-P1pQFY3MVB8NQfpp8HvLsNw66cK80ng/s1600/Flats.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFPwVhgtDC1tFoSmQO0CEZoylrbPKz4-uwoNNIyl7YKmL1HmHiCDNqrEBS0dPuAfsLQRU1p6vzelSICLVGNQGGCR_cV5TGCeRSUdUtE8h8GmN-P1pQFY3MVB8NQfpp8HvLsNw66cK80ng/s320/Flats.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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The chili at the flats was made by a bartender named Phil. When I asked Phil what type of meat he used to make the chili he simply remarked, "hamburger." It was nice and tangy, less thick and had a heavy onion base. It wasn't spicy enough and was not bad, but it wasn't great either. Pretty much the standard chili you'd expect if someone invited you over for chili. <br />
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10. <a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/caseys-draft-house-pittsburgh-2">Casey's</a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFImBNp4H0nEGqgSV-tkzAhSb5V-IKq_Erg4zA37F01UXhd9b_fTp2zCJnUHYPguBaI2ngh9U_ngqSwclyxvErDr8Z83mO1qF1zHz3OrbzbbqXWH2ywnFTCkf11x3dBu_jeIawbgTi-FE/s1600/caseys.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFImBNp4H0nEGqgSV-tkzAhSb5V-IKq_Erg4zA37F01UXhd9b_fTp2zCJnUHYPguBaI2ngh9U_ngqSwclyxvErDr8Z83mO1qF1zHz3OrbzbbqXWH2ywnFTCkf11x3dBu_jeIawbgTi-FE/s320/caseys.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Mike
made this chili, he is the owner of Casey's. It tasted heavily of BBQ
sauce and more spice was needed. The types of meat used were unknown.
Casey's is only ranked at number ten due to having the most handsome
bartender. The chili was not good. <br />
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11. <a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/cupkas-cafe-ii-pittsburgh">Cupka's 2</a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHqB_pzBBJ8JGKnON-OlDkOliEmSmRryKFITpcS9GMeh9HTIDEoTiVxZ6P4J2IxrWpoMbcFIEhNmu_kzISCnUT5u_wtxlMnVKiUh81uykHcrHHpvPlpPV6W5b7K5dbNm4A8MRLi89LM3o/s1600/Chupkas.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHqB_pzBBJ8JGKnON-OlDkOliEmSmRryKFITpcS9GMeh9HTIDEoTiVxZ6P4J2IxrWpoMbcFIEhNmu_kzISCnUT5u_wtxlMnVKiUh81uykHcrHHpvPlpPV6W5b7K5dbNm4A8MRLi89LM3o/s640/Chupkas.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Richie, I love you dawg, but you have to work on that chili recipe. Here are some quotes I solicited from friends. "It tastes like sand." - MB "It tastes like Skyline chili, it would be better on spaghet." - KB<br />
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The chili had no bite, no flavor, no <span data-dobid="hdw">rai·son d'ê·tre. One time I left my briefcase at Cupkas I. I called the bar to let them know. I went back to pick it up, explained that I had called in and I had left my bag there. The bartender looked at a note on my briefcase and said, "story checks out." I saw the note, it said, "a guy left this here."</span><br />
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<a href="https://www.zomato.com/pittsburgh/cupkas-ii-cafe-pittsburgh" target="_blank" title="View Menu, Reviews, Photos & Information about Cupka's II Cafe, South Side and other Restaurants in Pittsburgh"><img alt="Cupka's II Cafe Menu, Reviews, Photos, Location and Info - Zomato" src="https://www.zomato.com/logo/17036279/minilink" style="border: none; height: 36px; padding: 0px; width: 130px;" /></a>
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12. <a href="https://primantibros.com/locations/south-side">Primanti's</a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmPdOlvOjYskk_0MjPi4Cs5TTHaqCA2C99dLT2wmCqcwYwLk48ehuR5vY1yGpb_43TVFlRCU5O-FOWHKempjRi7vkhiFxwvk0S2KAeZS9OoDv07tY9qFOdYXqYethcFXG60h-VLZqfPgg/s1600/primantis+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmPdOlvOjYskk_0MjPi4Cs5TTHaqCA2C99dLT2wmCqcwYwLk48ehuR5vY1yGpb_43TVFlRCU5O-FOWHKempjRi7vkhiFxwvk0S2KAeZS9OoDv07tY9qFOdYXqYethcFXG60h-VLZqfPgg/s320/primantis+2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Primanti's served their standard chili. I'll preface by saying that I generally like their chili, but it was lukewarm when we arrived. It wasn't great, I didn't finish it. Also, too heavy on the kidney beans for my tastes. You have to show up for competition day Primanti's!!! The whole city is behind you. <br />
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<a href="https://www.zomato.com/pittsburgh/primanti-brothers-4-pittsburgh" target="_blank" title="View Menu, Reviews, Photos & Information about Primanti Brothers, South Side and other Restaurants in Pittsburgh"><img alt="Primanti Brothers Menu, Reviews, Photos, Location and Info - Zomato" src="https://www.zomato.com/logo/17037220/minilink" style="border: none; height: 36px; padding: 0px; width: 130px;" /></a>
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13. <a href="https://www.doublewidegrill.com/">Double Wide</a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOvvFzINUTFvmxn2i7XPue4bqLyrw3vgdNju5mEH_UA-twzOTWmShnrYMmolSb1SDqBcuuMklWHx1gzkTZE5_48rkDFe5wiJULLkeh72sRVtLUctauqQtm1t-JmWangXuDCbpsandtkUI/s1600/Double+Wide.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOvvFzINUTFvmxn2i7XPue4bqLyrw3vgdNju5mEH_UA-twzOTWmShnrYMmolSb1SDqBcuuMklWHx1gzkTZE5_48rkDFe5wiJULLkeh72sRVtLUctauqQtm1t-JmWangXuDCbpsandtkUI/s320/Double+Wide.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Double Wide used to have great food. <a href="http://www.pittsburghhappyhour.com/2012/06/double-wide-grill.html">Once upon a time I recommended that people go there</a>. Oh, how giants fall. Terrible chili. The women seemed to like it though. Do you really think you can win a chili competition with vegetarian chili? I would venture to say it is possible, but not with this slop. <br />
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<a href="https://www.zomato.com/pittsburgh/double-wide-grill-pittsburgh" target="_blank" title="View Menu, Reviews, Photos & Information about Double Wide Grill, South Side and other Restaurants in Pittsburgh"><img alt="Double Wide Grill Menu, Reviews, Photos, Location and Info - Zomato" src="https://www.zomato.com/logo/17036343/minilink" style="border: none; height: 36px; padding: 0px; width: 130px;" /></a>
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14. <a href="https://archiesoncarson.com/">Archie's</a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilGpbTvtqTFqYdJi1P-VZmPz5JDAyfvInAtW1TVWVjASVs3iCtumixaeF_1mOoSqRsGkSZl-mNFAMNQQYs6aeBv4GkFg2PTLYPW2CuU5_lBTNTjtMBSwKCN40K9pv2cQWkj8BFHqDz06w/s1600/Archies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilGpbTvtqTFqYdJi1P-VZmPz5JDAyfvInAtW1TVWVjASVs3iCtumixaeF_1mOoSqRsGkSZl-mNFAMNQQYs6aeBv4GkFg2PTLYPW2CuU5_lBTNTjtMBSwKCN40K9pv2cQWkj8BFHqDz06w/s640/Archies.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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First of all, Archie is the man. <a href="http://www.pittsburghhappyhour.com/2017/02/every-chicken-wing-in-southside-ranked.html">I love his chicken wings</a> and everything I've ever been served at Archie's is awesome. However, the chili is not good.<br />
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Arch, I think your batch towards the end of the competition might have been burnt. Something was certainly off. We didn't finish our chili and we snuck out the door like shy children. Afraid to tell pap pap that the chili was bad. <br />
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<a href="https://www.zomato.com/pittsburgh/archies-pittsburgh" target="_blank" title="View Menu, Reviews, Photos & Information about Archies, South Side and other Restaurants in Pittsburgh"><img alt="Archies Menu, Reviews, Photos, Location and Info - Zomato" src="https://www.zomato.com/logo/17042801/minilink" style="border: none; height: 36px; padding: 0px; width: 130px;" /></a>
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15. <a href="https://www.steelcactuspgh.com/southsidespecials">Steel Cactus</a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvkjo_VqnmXUjrrw6GwXnxCgGgV7Y2SLhxJYbNwgBORzEoCvqnDUJm1DmeJwK9RZLylSPAT8_wxsM4oH_cVM66uhKV6PmdaLysR3tWaaUT_fnvM7UJn_PMFETA1Bpx_t5du4LFYNysYUY/s1600/Steel+Cactus.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvkjo_VqnmXUjrrw6GwXnxCgGgV7Y2SLhxJYbNwgBORzEoCvqnDUJm1DmeJwK9RZLylSPAT8_wxsM4oH_cVM66uhKV6PmdaLysR3tWaaUT_fnvM7UJn_PMFETA1Bpx_t5du4LFYNysYUY/s400/Steel+Cactus.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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The only reason that Steel Cactus didn't finish dead last is that somehow their sister restaurant just barely managed to make a worse showing. This chili was both burnt and ice cold. A true disappointment. I told the hostesses that if this was how they were going to compete they might as well not compete at all as they were just making themselves look bad.<br />
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We've been to <a href="http://www.pittsburghhappyhour.com/2014/07/steel-cactus-shadyside.html">Steel Cactus before, I don't recommend it highly, but the specials are pretty good</a>. #sadmex<br />
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<a href="https://www.zomato.com/pittsburgh/steel-cactus-mexican-restaurant-cantina-1-pittsburgh" target="_blank" title="View Menu, Reviews, Photos & Information about Steel Cactus Mexican Restaurant & Cantina, South Side and other Restaurants in Pittsburgh"><img alt="Steel Cactus Mexican Restaurant & Cantina Menu, Reviews, Photos, Location and Info - Zomato" src="https://www.zomato.com/logo/17043772/minilink" style="border: none; height: 36px; padding: 0px; width: 130px;" /></a>
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16. <a href="https://localbar.com/southside/index.htm">Local</a><br />
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This was absolutely the worst chili of the day. It was served ice cold and was completely lacking in flavor. I could not taste any seasoning. I would compare this chili to unseasoned Italian red sauce with beans. The only reason I'm ranking this chili lower than Steel Cactus is that it was served next to a dripping ceiling and there was no indication that a chili competition was even occurring as there was not a crock-pot on site nor a dedicated server. Just 5 cups of ice cold chili sitting out under a dripping ceiling. Quite frankly, it might have been the same chili that was served by Steel Cactus as the restaurants are owned by the same folks.<br />
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I do not mind going to brunch at Local as I love their upstairs patio. However, if you've been following my posts you would know that <a href="http://www.pittsburghhappyhour.com/2012/11/local-southside.html">they served me raw chicken wings several years ag</a>o. This chili gets a 0/10,<br />
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I met a couple when I started the chili competition at my second stop. They told me that they had made almost every stop but they avoided Local because they thought it would be a waste of time. They sure were right. <br />
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<a href="https://www.zomato.com/pittsburgh/local-bar-kitchen-pittsburgh" target="_blank" title="View Menu, Reviews, Photos & Information about Local Bar + Kitchen, South Side and other Restaurants in Pittsburgh"><img alt="Local Bar + Kitchen Menu, Reviews, Photos, Location and Info - Zomato" src="https://www.zomato.com/logo/17042266/minilink" style="border: none; height: 36px; padding: 0px; width: 130px;" /></a>
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Overall, it was not a bad run for a first attempt by the show-runners. I have a litany of complaints I won't bore you with, but the main two are that they should have provided guests with printed hand outs of the locations and they should have ensured that participating bars weren't fucking around. Totally worth the ticket price though, great job!<br />
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<br />Pittsburgh HappyHourhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08344852771467844704noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5585147455199091179.post-85253692095429101552019-04-30T06:09:00.001-07:002019-04-30T06:09:12.196-07:00La Palapa Revisited <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ7lOrB5ELfmu6kH24075dAlw7TgoWkCEQb1RYAIiJ6VsJt7QtOK7obr2HVzYTOjE23KhZay7n_RsxHz56tOV2210BJo9XIbDBaJ6DURPlUyC9fuxEmUKAmaD3tO2o0DvmgMukSQKFHbw/s1600/20190318_204536.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ7lOrB5ELfmu6kH24075dAlw7TgoWkCEQb1RYAIiJ6VsJt7QtOK7obr2HVzYTOjE23KhZay7n_RsxHz56tOV2210BJo9XIbDBaJ6DURPlUyC9fuxEmUKAmaD3tO2o0DvmgMukSQKFHbw/s640/20190318_204536.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Taco Time</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I'm a huge supporter of <a href="http://www.pittsburghhappyhour.com/2018/06/la-palapa.html">La Palapa</a>. I've been rocking with them since they were located a little further down Carson Street and we even stopped by last year for a magical happy hour.<br />
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I was overjoyed to hear that they were hosting a new Monday night event featuring all you can eat tacos and some of the best DJs in town. For $10 you seriously get entertainment and unlimited tacos. Certainly there is no better time to be alive. (They also rock $3.50 Coronas and $6.00 Margaritas for taco night.) You may purchase <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/all-you-can-eat-tacos-w-guest-djs-tickets-56016018419?aff=utm_source%3Deb_email%26utm_medium%3Demail%26utm_campaign%3Dnew_event_email&utm_term=eventurl_text">tickets in advance</a> or pay at the door.<br />
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So the taco selection changes monthly and one taco changes weekly. The selection features one meat, one vegetarian and one special taco. The event is so new that I cannot really give you much guidance on what to expect other than when I visited the options were chicken, pork, and bean and mushroom. They will only allow you to order three tacos at a time.<br />
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I had one of each and really enjoyed all of them. My only complaint was that they are placing a lining of rice in each taco, presumably to help keep their costs within a reasonable margin. After all, they can't possibly be making money by offering unlimited tacos for $10.<br />
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Instead of rice they should just give guests the option of lettuce, tomatoes and onions or serve tacos that are a little less filled. I like a bit more roughage in my tacos and I don't think it would significantly affect their margins to give us some vegetables.<br />
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I only managed to eat three tacos so they probably made money on my ass or at least broke even. My friend Eric went for five, I think he regretted his decision.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXJVMmcv9SC1LiX2VVn5nXFbYFb73qtpLBZ5XKBviq2aqeAbXiv0HgDeHFDd0CDiBOtMn6GQy-qO5APVtf8lUfQ27vflVJYFzw4LLiLRBDpS0xX-_W-o-xLZA3C2a1RNDbRN_NYgB1jcs/s1600/20190318_205528.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXJVMmcv9SC1LiX2VVn5nXFbYFb73qtpLBZ5XKBviq2aqeAbXiv0HgDeHFDd0CDiBOtMn6GQy-qO5APVtf8lUfQ27vflVJYFzw4LLiLRBDpS0xX-_W-o-xLZA3C2a1RNDbRN_NYgB1jcs/s320/20190318_205528.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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This is TJ, he is your host for this event and also a great dude. I saw him eat four tacos, what a badass.<br />
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Now when it comes to taco strategy, TJ had a solid theory. He mentioned that patrons are ordering their tacos sans shells in order to really capitalize on protein. Bold move folks! Maybe those people are the reason we are getting rice in our tacos. (Jerks.)<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsveaAd5WJGmI83VMZP_Xl_r1IiwNaN2FhppHow1rLcvocp9r-ICv9-CIdLkrb6-qfSayyN_igQhjXjSAgomp3ymFEBwO7FlzCgfzNOX-ceW2Wog_c8bggiUiBWwZlT2FgG_mKcL9M1To/s1600/52948610_1104584679726449_42022071693213696_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsveaAd5WJGmI83VMZP_Xl_r1IiwNaN2FhppHow1rLcvocp9r-ICv9-CIdLkrb6-qfSayyN_igQhjXjSAgomp3ymFEBwO7FlzCgfzNOX-ceW2Wog_c8bggiUiBWwZlT2FgG_mKcL9M1To/s400/52948610_1104584679726449_42022071693213696_o.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo Compliments of BC1</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Possibly the best part of unlimited taco night, SICK DJs!!! This is Tom, he's a pretty cool dude. Overall, this is one of the best events taking place in Pittsburgh on Monday nights. I highly recommend stopping by.<br />
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<a href="https://www.zomato.com/pittsburgh/la-palapa-cocina-gourmet-mexicana-pittsburgh" target="_blank" title="View Menu, Reviews, Photos & Information about La Palapa Cocina Gourmet Mexicana, South Side and other Restaurants in Pittsburgh"><img alt="La Palapa Cocina Gourmet Mexicana Menu, Reviews, Photos, Location and Info - Zomato" src="https://www.zomato.com/logo/17043239/biglink" style="border: none; height: 146px; padding: 0; width: 200px;" /></a> Pittsburgh HappyHourhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08344852771467844704noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5585147455199091179.post-55568725586351792312019-04-24T03:56:00.003-07:002019-04-24T03:56:35.214-07:00Burn<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgufBNFq02ZIJnyfIUsn2cKVdOAp5GLM-CjSL9-Q2kDpCjlh3E30f0I6hw_VQlmW4OzBT3vuDBY_SiSM1DNT0_VE3Yg-eKLijTkbMR4kveiQxpeGmVXhiny6tfKiTRkh3nYXwTl-5h2KCI/s1600/20190314_193011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgufBNFq02ZIJnyfIUsn2cKVdOAp5GLM-CjSL9-Q2kDpCjlh3E30f0I6hw_VQlmW4OzBT3vuDBY_SiSM1DNT0_VE3Yg-eKLijTkbMR4kveiQxpeGmVXhiny6tfKiTRkh3nYXwTl-5h2KCI/s400/20190314_193011.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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The decor of Burn doesn't really make a ton of sense in comparison to the rest of the establishments on the North Shore. Just about every bar on the North Shore is going for some type of sports theme or something centered around whimsical knickknacks, like a Pirate themed TGI Fridays or a Hockey Steeler themed Shenanigans.<br />
<br />
Then there is Burn by <a href="https://www.burnbyrockypatel.com/pittsburgh-1">Rocky Patel.</a> If words could describe Burn, those words would be, "an art deco style bar designed by a Vegas whore with limited taste and loose morals." In other words - I loved it.<br />
<br />
I don't think there is a single place in Pittsburgh that looks more like Vegas. Some of the other great benefits were awesome live music, $5 wine and $7 cocktails and 25% off of Johnny Walker spirits for happy hour. (Heads up to bars, having a special where you describe a spirit as being 25% off is not very helpful to patrons.)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgra3g7JXUPrwRJ0B2KCMHZd5r8w4oIkwr43rhMsS0k9qVDAFxqk1GBSdwxAA7JJx3DGMdAytrkSNDcdsGWaTdgWeVoCgZmQhxMwTr7Zd2EiA9Ovj5mhtufV-UI3rKHdMcFL9jaYw5pdnY/s1600/20190314_193132.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgra3g7JXUPrwRJ0B2KCMHZd5r8w4oIkwr43rhMsS0k9qVDAFxqk1GBSdwxAA7JJx3DGMdAytrkSNDcdsGWaTdgWeVoCgZmQhxMwTr7Zd2EiA9Ovj5mhtufV-UI3rKHdMcFL9jaYw5pdnY/s640/20190314_193132.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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When I asked Eric what he thought about the pizza he said, "the pizza adequately represented pizza." It was fine, but for the price it could have been better/bigger or they at least could have used a little more sauce. <br />
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I highly recommend checking out Burn, especially if you like a good cigar. The service is great, but we found some of the cocktails to be a little sugary and watered down.<br />
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<br />Pittsburgh HappyHourhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08344852771467844704noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5585147455199091179.post-77628169556819517062019-04-22T04:20:00.000-07:002019-04-22T07:25:11.207-07:00Soju<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZAoGn5QrgA92Y3_sXpR4-uZN810-zuxa-xJJN23CAq6p_sJqAX5v98O9VdOyC5oyl_hyphenhyphen_64wiugeGSL3dX5owFx9OmgCVBzZ6M2Tn6hVXPkskAoKpRwlTeoVnpcg1PN-jPILYZSoRkrc/s1600/20190228_182933.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZAoGn5QrgA92Y3_sXpR4-uZN810-zuxa-xJJN23CAq6p_sJqAX5v98O9VdOyC5oyl_hyphenhyphen_64wiugeGSL3dX5owFx9OmgCVBzZ6M2Tn6hVXPkskAoKpRwlTeoVnpcg1PN-jPILYZSoRkrc/s640/20190228_182933.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://simonchough.wixsite.com/sojupgh">Soju</a> is one of the more interesting Pittsburgh restaurant openings from the last year. The space is warm and intimate and features a beautiful bar with lots of that wood paneling that is currently fashionable. Pictured above are the kim-chi pancake, fried tofu, rice cakes and bibim bap.<br />
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I genuinely enjoyed all of the food I sampled during happy hour. The tofu and pancake were two of my favorites and the beef I managed to snag off of some stranger's plate was also remarkably good. I was not a fan of the <a href="https://www.koreanbapsang.com/tteokbokki-spicy-stir-fried-rice-cakes/">Korean rice cakes (<i>Tteokbokki</i>)</a>, but that's because I just don't like rice cakes.<br />
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Korean rice cakes have an extremely glutinous texture that could be compared to super soggy gnocchi. They really don't have much flavor on their own and rely heavily on the accompanying sauce. I would compare chocking down Korean rice cakes to chewing on some old flavorless bubble gum that has been left out in the sun to decompose and then covered in a spicy red sauce. Gross.<br />
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In general, the prices were fantastic for happy hour. You can expect $2 soju shots, half off craft beers and a discounted specialty cocktail that rotates daily. Most of the food was reasonably priced as well with the exception of a side dish of kim-chi, which I believe was $6. (I can get a whole jar of kim-chi for that price, or even better make a whole gallon of it!)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzkWZZX7r2oGn1eNL6Sl1_YfV9VkHUJjKpWroFFSXBXF9CAV3Ja3qIBOWSnCHJE8xMQiEOD0_8bUNfGjaaKd9r5vov5qy3Klwjbwi32CXAWYMGE0ujTlOACjLl7UteYhc1RkNLMRIJ44k/s1600/20190228_190151.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzkWZZX7r2oGn1eNL6Sl1_YfV9VkHUJjKpWroFFSXBXF9CAV3Ja3qIBOWSnCHJE8xMQiEOD0_8bUNfGjaaKd9r5vov5qy3Klwjbwi32CXAWYMGE0ujTlOACjLl7UteYhc1RkNLMRIJ44k/s320/20190228_190151.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWGF-soMcEWLik7jQICFEQpu85ej7_wvj-obTAiLRCk8cKsbpZTXN5qlaYSjWc7uKYRvs6QmIp1jkulzgKMSIN-qnf4hk3nQpyCoN78hrWwjLtm3vpQTwV1uYFEWdm6PQxpNyNT1hq-o0/s1600/20190228_191225.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWGF-soMcEWLik7jQICFEQpu85ej7_wvj-obTAiLRCk8cKsbpZTXN5qlaYSjWc7uKYRvs6QmIp1jkulzgKMSIN-qnf4hk3nQpyCoN78hrWwjLtm3vpQTwV1uYFEWdm6PQxpNyNT1hq-o0/s320/20190228_191225.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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The cheesecake was also quite interesting, it was light and airy, somewhat different from the traditional New York style cheesecake to which I am accustomed. I feel obligated to point out that the bartenders were extremely nice and accommodating to us, but this place really isn't ideal for larger groups due to their size. Go check them out in addition to Pittsburgh's annual <a href="https://www.yelp.com/events/pittsburgh-korean-food-bazaar">Korean Food Bazaar</a> which should be coming up sometime in May.Pittsburgh HappyHourhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08344852771467844704noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5585147455199091179.post-74718845891882588782019-04-14T12:04:00.000-07:002019-04-14T12:04:04.188-07:005 New Cocktail Destinations in Pittsburgh<i>Sponsored by </i><a href="https://www.limobuspittsburgh.com/">Party
Bus Pittsburgh PA</a><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrG_Vfi_QPNANOLSTRaueLfzTkopEBNHZyYIn8LIH-OlDg_g-9TkxdHV4dM1dlW1SaDDIKqLF8GKFG6sDRhdtd5oLxnw3X7En_IJI5uSKveFVuOD40SrwazHHaynM1DFmhLfnhPd2uOd8/s1600/IMG_20190305_095621_202.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrG_Vfi_QPNANOLSTRaueLfzTkopEBNHZyYIn8LIH-OlDg_g-9TkxdHV4dM1dlW1SaDDIKqLF8GKFG6sDRhdtd5oLxnw3X7En_IJI5uSKveFVuOD40SrwazHHaynM1DFmhLfnhPd2uOd8/s320/IMG_20190305_095621_202.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bartenders at Spirits and Tales</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Here are five new fantastic
destinations for drinks to consider checking out in and around
Pittsburgh. Remember, safe transportation is inherently important any
time you decide on drinking with friends. For more information on
transportation options, check out <a href="https://www.limobuspittsburgh.com/">Party
Bus Pittsburgh PA</a>. In the meantime, read on for more details on
these fresh establishments in the area.
</div>
<div lang="zxx" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
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</div>
<div lang="zxx" style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 0.49in;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><b>Alta
Via</b></span></div>
<div lang="zxx" style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 0.49in;">
<b>Italian
American cuisine</b></div>
<div lang="zxx" style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 0.49in;">
46 Fox
Chapel Road in Blawnox</div>
<div lang="zxx" style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 0.49in;">
This
newly opened Italian restaurant in Blawnox has an intimate atmosphere
as well as high quality food and drinks that all will enjoy. From
classic Italian cocktails like the Negroni and Basil Margarita to an
extensive wine list, there's quite a lot to take in when it comes to
the drink menu.</div>
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<div lang="zxx" style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 0.49in;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><b>Wolfie's
Pub</b></span></div>
<div lang="zxx" style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 0.49in;">
<b>Traditional
pub</b></div>
<div lang="zxx" style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 0.49in;">
274
Forbes Avenue in Pittsburgh</div>
<div lang="zxx" style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 0.49in;">
Come
enjoy the low key environment and welcoming staff at this new pub in
downtown Pittsburgh. We're sure you will love their inventive drinks
here. Don't leave without trying their "Grandma's Liberation
Libation" which is a draft beer of your choice, a shot of
whiskey, and a piece of hard candy.
</div>
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</div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;"><b>412
Brewery Taproom</b></span></div>
<div lang="zxx" style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 0.49in;">
<b>Taproom</b></div>
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847
Western Avenue in Pittsburgh</div>
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While
the brewery itself is located in McKees Rocks, this newly opened
taproom near the North side is a smaller establishment with an
industrial vibe. Why not enjoy a flight of awesome brews at this
taproom? The orange IPA is extremely tasty and the perfect addition
to any day with the warmer weather.
</div>
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</div>
<div lang="zxx" style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 0.49in;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><b>Spirits
& Tales</b></span></div>
<div lang="zxx" style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 0.49in;">
<b>Cocktail
bar</b></div>
<div lang="zxx" style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 0.49in;">
5130
Bigelow Boulevard</div>
<div lang="zxx" style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 0.49in;">
This
cocktail bar is located inside of the Oaklander Hotel. You are sure
to be impressed by the ambience as soon as you walk in. Their hand
crafted cocktails are made with local spirits, so you can feel good
knowing that you're supporting local businesses when you come here
for some drinks with friends.</div>
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</div>
<div lang="zxx" style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 0.49in;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><b>Kingfly
Spirits</b></span></div>
<div lang="zxx" style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 0.49in;">
<b>Distillery</b></div>
<div lang="zxx" style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 0.49in;">
2613
Smallman Street in Pittsburgh</div>
<div lang="zxx" style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 0.49in;">
This
craft distillery, cocktail bar and event venue is making a splash
over in the Strip District. Seemingly every detail has been thought
out here, down to their ice cubes adorned with their butterfly logo.
Tasting pours are $4 for an ounce, and their cocktails are very
affordable at $9 when you consider the size.</div>
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<div lang="zxx" style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 0.49in;">
Brought to you by <a href="https://www.limobuspittsburgh.com/">Party
Bus Pittsburgh PA</a> </div>
Pittsburgh HappyHourhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08344852771467844704noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5585147455199091179.post-87549422350964374452019-03-18T17:16:00.002-07:002019-03-18T17:16:51.387-07:00Kingfly Spirits<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheaDu7GdPNx3LtzAjEA_FGoJdLtf43945UNolIvgqorW0_l4KjHOV5qcJjHA_92n7SyeHJWK5JfXWI6awrlb-FXpoKJO2jflyngUvYVtKeIm6PQ3VpgzTPtfpLidBE2Ct5vV8w_Oz5hKM/s1600/IMG_20190214_191409_402.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheaDu7GdPNx3LtzAjEA_FGoJdLtf43945UNolIvgqorW0_l4KjHOV5qcJjHA_92n7SyeHJWK5JfXWI6awrlb-FXpoKJO2jflyngUvYVtKeIm6PQ3VpgzTPtfpLidBE2Ct5vV8w_Oz5hKM/s640/IMG_20190214_191409_402.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<br />
Wow, <a href="https://www.kingflyspirits.com/">Kingfly Spirits</a> - talk about a hip little spot! In the beautifully renovated brick building that used to be home to the Spaghetti Warehouse you will now find mood lighting, jazz, and pure romance.<br />
<br />
Before we can discuss Kingfly, I actually need to talk about Spaghetti Warehouse for just a minute. The chain restaurant is the proud owner of top notch domain likely coveted by cousins Vinny everywhere - <a href="http://www.meatballs.com/">www.meatballs.com</a>. I feel like they either employed some internet wiz-kid in 1996 or they paid some serious <a href="https://www.esquire.com/food-drink/a25837043/what-is-gabagool-sopranos/">gabagool</a> to snag such a magnificent domain name. Domain names are in short supply for restaurants these days. Also, check out this <a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/spaghetti-warehouse-pittsburgh?hrid=-I8Awgm5IhmKurL4xZpjkg&utm_campaign=www_review_share_popup&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_source=(direct)">wonderful review </a>of the now closed Spaghetti Warehouse from Gabriel P. of Yelp.<br />
<br />
<i>"This place is a disaster. First, the decor in reminiscent of some sort
of condemned fun-house. The lighting is dark and dank, kind of like a
dungeon or a serial killer's basement. The floors and booths all kind of
tilt downward to the east, just ever so perceptibly, so you're not
really sure if it's real or if you're just imagining it. Maybe the whole
place is built on top of an old graveyard full of Italian Grandmas that
roll over every time someone sits down for dinner there. The service is
really spotty too. The receptionists seem a bit befuddled. The servers
seem miserable and exhausted, like they work about 48 hour straight
shifts. Or they're just high. Not that I blame them. If I worked there,
I'd probably want to get high before I came in to work too."</i><br />
<br />
That's possibly one of the best written Yelp reviews of all time. I don't understand how being seated to the east creates the perception of nothingness, but hey, great job Gabriel! Someone get old Gabriel a nice plate of the gabagool.<br />
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Now, back to Kingfly. They really had some great spiced rum, some of the best I've had. I also particularly enjoyed my rickey (bourbon highball with lime and soda), they even make their own soda water.<br />
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I would not recommend showing up hungry. We visited only shortly after the grand opening but the only real options were some nuts and a few dips. I did in fact enjoy the smoked eggplant dip, but then I nearly starved to death after a few cocktails. Overall a great date spot - a bit expensive - but worth it for the ambiance. <br />
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<br />
<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/KVECTBmlTpU" width="560"></iframe>Pittsburgh HappyHourhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08344852771467844704noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5585147455199091179.post-46974270777285807652019-01-31T05:47:00.002-08:002019-01-31T05:47:49.831-08:00Pierogie Fest<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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The<a href="http://pittsburghpierogifestival.com/"> Pittsburgh Pierogi Festival</a> sure has grown up in the last several years. From humble beginnings this festival has turned into what is probably one of the top Pierogi Festivals in the world! (I really have no point of reference to base this on, so let's just say one of the top Pierogi Festivals in the United States.)<br />
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I'll never forget my first Pierogi Festival. The event was so well received that they ran out of Pierogi within the first couple of hours. The location was basically, "a van down by the river" in the South Side Works. Boy has this festival grown - you can now try pierogi from almost all of the major players in Pittsburgh.<br />
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I wanted to drop some serious pierogi knowledge on my readers. Did you know that <a href="https://culture.pl/en/article/the-pierogi-renaissance-how-polands-most-famous-dish-is-reinventing-itself">"pierogi"</a> is already the plural of the word? So if you are stealing one dumping from a friedn be sure to ask for a "pierog." You can learn a number of other wonderful facts about pierogi <a href="http://www.polskafoods.com/polish-food/facts-history-about-pierogi">here!</a> <br />
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In no particular order, our favorite pierogi were: S&D Polish Deli, Holy Ghost and Michelle's Mobile. All vendors we were able to sample did a wonderful job of getting the pierogies to the people! Lines were long at times but moved very fast. I'd say that the one item you simply cannot miss is the Polish platter from S&D Deli.<br />
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Also pictured below, a delicious crepe from the Pgh Crepes Truck and a guest appearance by Kenny! <br />
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<br />Pittsburgh HappyHourhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08344852771467844704noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5585147455199091179.post-35148950676876819882018-11-08T06:20:00.003-08:002018-11-08T08:09:55.362-08:00Ponderosa Lives On in Beaver County<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikjzE1VTsaPevzFuLtLldic_KYwuIj8B6Y8rKgPTCtvwfbxxUyz3bSEGESUgpXnWjZjN4mo-y6yUR9CUP72rtQdvgu00czDSPrBjjncRDAviFDm8pOf41gmI26C0WwuYIy8hGisjnfQ5Y/s1600/20180903_171647.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikjzE1VTsaPevzFuLtLldic_KYwuIj8B6Y8rKgPTCtvwfbxxUyz3bSEGESUgpXnWjZjN4mo-y6yUR9CUP72rtQdvgu00czDSPrBjjncRDAviFDm8pOf41gmI26C0WwuYIy8hGisjnfQ5Y/s640/20180903_171647.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">That's right, Ponderosa still exists.</td></tr>
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The undeniable reason that Ponderosa is an outstanding restaurant is that just like all five star buffets, it is named after a fictional ranch from the television show <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0052451/">Bonanza</a>. In case you are wondering, <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ponderosa_Steakhouse_and_Bonanza_Steakhouse">Ponderosa/Bonanza</a> are the same restaurant - they use the name interchangeably in order to really confuse potential visitors to the trough. <br />
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Naming your buffet after a fictional ranch is a sure fire way to convince consumers that you've really done your homework. I've never seen the show Bonanza and I would venture to say that the majority of Ponderosa's customers have not either. (It stopped running 45 years ago.) Presumably the show portrays America's working class eating themselves to death.<br />
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An entree and the buffet at Ponderosa will cost you roughly $20. I'll let you decide how you would like to tip at a buffet, <a href="https://www.usatoday.com/story/money/2017/06/22/tipping-etiquette-when-how-much/412098001/">I go with the standard 10%</a>. Remarkably, there are still quite a few Ponderosa locations. The only two in Pennsylvania are located right outside of Pittsburgh in Beaver Falls and Butler. For the adventurous traveler there are also <a href="https://www.pon-bon.com/ponderosa/">Ponderosa locations</a> in Egypt, Taiwan, UAE and Qatar. The fuck? <br />
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Now keep in mind that it is possible to just get the buffet when you visit Ponderosa, but you can add an entree for only a few additional dollars. Don't be a fool, get the entree. More on this later. <br />
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Any proper trip to Ponderosa starts with the salad bar. The options are really quite numerous and the combinations are endless. As you can see I went with the regal combination of iceberg with peppers, chickpeas, carrots, onions, and pickles. My tastes are so refined that sometimes I find it hard to believe that I am not the king of England or at least a social influencer on Insta.<br />
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After your salad you should have time for one more course before your entree is served. I recommend going with the chicken wing and meatball course. A plate that would surely satiate any appetite. The chicken wings are probably one of the better items on the Ponderosa menu. It is worth noting that Ponderosa now carries red-hot in addition to tobasco, this is essential for <a href="http://www.tendoreview.com/">wing fans</a>. <br />
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Just one important note on the chicken wing and meatball course - I'd recommend skipping the meatballs. They are awful.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Entrees and Tacos</td></tr>
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Now, after your second course your entree is sure to arrive. UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES SHOULD YOU EAT YOUR ENTREE.<br />
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While Ponderosa will not allow you to abscond with any of the 6,000 items from the buffet, you are free to take home your entree. Basically this means that you've paid about $3-$5 dollars for a fine cut of bottom round steak and some french fries that you may enjoy in the privacy of your own home.<br />
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Two of my dining companions ate their entrees despite my protests. Why oh why would you eat potential home-steak when you can get other versions of "beef" from the buffet? I was horrified. If they were my children I would have taken them outside to the Ponderosa parking lot for a Beaver County beating.<br />
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Also pictured above is my taco course. While the taco bar may look unappetizing, trust me, it is. <br />
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Since you are dining at Ponderosa, you are obviously a massive baller with unlimited funds and an even larger selection of potential mates. After your third course it is time to carbo-load for all of the unbridled sex you will likely be having in the very near future.<br />
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I recommend a classic plate of spaghetti, mashed potatoes, pizza, nondescript flavorless red sausage and cinnamon bread? Oddly enough I was unable to find butter.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDsQaKeTuq5sfbG_v4cQXV07GX4Yz86486rR93e0LivekpmX-BBqa3U1cK3Dx1Y4O18XH2H14hXaH4RwLM2geMsgtAv0MVdvCig1v6IeyUCRZOzeeBOGMB5rvNAf1OENGz5rKsDacyqHg/s1600/20180903_181733.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDsQaKeTuq5sfbG_v4cQXV07GX4Yz86486rR93e0LivekpmX-BBqa3U1cK3Dx1Y4O18XH2H14hXaH4RwLM2geMsgtAv0MVdvCig1v6IeyUCRZOzeeBOGMB5rvNAf1OENGz5rKsDacyqHg/s320/20180903_181733.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
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During our visit the chocolate soft serve machine was broken, so I couldn't go with my normal swirl soft-serve bowl. Ponderosa has an entire wall dedicated to dessert. Cookies, brownies, cakes, fruit inspired casseroles, etc. I like jamming cookies into a bowl and covering them in ice cream and chocolate sauce. It is basically the perfect way to ruin your self-esteem and cap off a night of gluttony.<br />
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While my review may be snarky, I like Ponderossa. If you go into the Ponderossa experience knowing that you are paying for quantity as opposed to quality - you should be able to find some food that you enjoy and have a nice evening. Also, you'll have a delicious home-steak for later and the memories of a meal inspired by a canceled television show from that was presumably inspired by the American west in the 1950's. <br />
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<a href="https://www.zomato.com/pittsburgh/ponderosa-steakhouse-beaver-falls" target="_blank" title="View Menu, Reviews, Photos & Information about Ponderosa Steakhouse, Beaver Falls and other Restaurants in Pittsburgh"><img alt="Ponderosa Steakhouse Menu, Reviews, Photos, Location and Info - Zomato" src="https://www.zomato.com/logo/17038240/biglink" style="border: none; height: 146px; padding: 0; width: 200px;" /></a> Pittsburgh HappyHourhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08344852771467844704noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5585147455199091179.post-49489825945968555172018-10-25T06:19:00.000-07:002018-10-25T06:19:06.449-07:00Level 7 - AC Hotel Pittsburgh<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjniqk3OADgBa5GumUwpcKd8hZcPM5OY5_YMwwOkyhXsCc8YlkL_7AdTKyJBdxEmnAqD14YJyJ8-umsY_93KSwI1C6oLDCIiezbPmMd5EhmzV3ON9fR9V8LVAXgw5ny9Xfg8PsHf_HcvHc/s1600/level+7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjniqk3OADgBa5GumUwpcKd8hZcPM5OY5_YMwwOkyhXsCc8YlkL_7AdTKyJBdxEmnAqD14YJyJ8-umsY_93KSwI1C6oLDCIiezbPmMd5EhmzV3ON9fR9V8LVAXgw5ny9Xfg8PsHf_HcvHc/s640/level+7.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Level 7 </td></tr>
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Hotel bars have an indescribable je ne sais quoi:<br />
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The lonely
patrons drinking in silence. The pretty girls outrageously overdressed
for a Thursday afternoon, raising implications left unsaid. The sad
businessmen pretending that another glass of cabaret will fix their
broken marriage. The sulking bartenders who seem almost interchangeable -
totally devoid of emotion or personality, masters of small talk.<br />
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Level
7 presented all of these overused troupes during our visit in
September. The highlight of the establishment is the very nice deck that
overlooks the convention center and provides a unique view of downtown
Pittsburgh.<br />
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<a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=5585147455199091179" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=5585147455199091179" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a>The food was rather good. I enjoyed my Greek
meatballs which were served with generous portions of homemade tzatziki
sauce. I love tzatziki sauce. The meat plate was just OK, but seemed
reasonably priced for $7. (All small plates and a number of drinks are
priced at $7 for happy hour.)<br />
If I went on business trips or had a
wife to cheat on, this would be my top prospect. Otherwise, I think you
can find more personality at a number of hotel bars throughout our fine
city.<br />
<br />Pittsburgh HappyHourhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08344852771467844704noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5585147455199091179.post-86636903356786149252018-10-04T05:35:00.002-07:002018-10-04T08:39:02.131-07:00Forbes Tavern<br />
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The brand new Forbes Tavern sits in the location of the very old <a href="https://www.yelp.ca/biz/courthouse-tavern-pittsburgh">Courthouse Tavern</a> on Forbes Avenue. The Courthouse Tavern had a certain undeniable charm. It was a great place for casual day drinking, the food was cheap and the entire bar smelled of sewage.<br />
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I'm delighted to say that the new owner of Forbes Tavern has done a wonderful job with the renovations! The new space has a very clean and modern feel. When I asked about the smell of the previous establishment the new owner, Chris, mentioned that he had spent countless hours personally scrubbing the basement in order to remedy the issue. How quaint.<br />
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In addition to some marvelous renovations, all of the food we tried was remarkable. The happy hour options were very well priced and the smoked chicken wings I tried were quite good. A lovely crisp texture with great flavor and a generous amount of smoke. The flank steak, pictured below, was also very well prepared. (Served with chimichurri, corn salad and some grilled veggies.)<br />
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Specials run from 4:00 to 6:00 pm with appetizers priced from $5 to $9. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzxBqwdqtaOCQwmdVEW8YV4NUxp6_y6nwdj0TaLr6QwdP0bF_qrAKgR1NysDjE3scfBhHJ_SI-o9lFSNb_e8G2ReGr__QWcUoDSgCIOU2r43Kl1b2hGD-1bGnMNqYwEOBxonzPszEGlLU/s1600/20180809_193911.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzxBqwdqtaOCQwmdVEW8YV4NUxp6_y6nwdj0TaLr6QwdP0bF_qrAKgR1NysDjE3scfBhHJ_SI-o9lFSNb_e8G2ReGr__QWcUoDSgCIOU2r43Kl1b2hGD-1bGnMNqYwEOBxonzPszEGlLU/s320/20180809_193911.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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We had great food and some very good service at Forbes Tavern, our only complaint is that as the bar reached capacity it was a little loud, but the owner told us he was working to find a solution.<br />
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<a href="https://www.zomato.com/pittsburgh/courthouse-tavern-pittsburgh" target="_blank" title="View Menu, Reviews, Photos & Information about Courthouse Tavern, Downtown-CBD and other Restaurants in Pittsburgh"><img alt="Courthouse Tavern Menu, Reviews, Photos, Location and Info - Zomato" src="https://www.zomato.com/logo/17037723/biglink" style="border: none; height: 146px; padding: 0; width: 200px;" /></a> Pittsburgh HappyHourhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08344852771467844704noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5585147455199091179.post-45364555945514632112018-08-23T05:48:00.004-07:002018-08-23T07:54:21.694-07:00Lamb Fest - Top Picks 2018<br />
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I tried explaining to a dear friend last week that Church Food Festivals are no longer really all that interesting to me. While they serve a great cause, and some of them may serve great food - there are just so many more robust options for people who actually like to eat.<br />
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For example, the <a href="http://www.pittsburghmagazine.com/Best-of-the-Burgh-Blogs/Eat-Street/June-2018/The-Western-Pennsylvania-Lamb-Cook-Off-Is-Back/">Western Pennsylvania Lamb Cook Off</a> this year hosted 34 well known chefs including guest chefs from Vegas and New York. I don't care how sentimental and nostalgic you may be for the church festivals of 'ole. There's just no way that nana and her church pals are up to the task of making better food than the professionals.<br />
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The first thing I noticed upon entering this years festival was the protestors! There were a number of folks very peacefully protesting the consumption of meat. I have to give them credit for just how polite they were, I didn't see a single one of them try to knock a kebab on the ground or snatch up any grape leaves.<br />
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Here are my top picks for this years festival in no particular order:<br />
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Team 9 with their szechuan style lamb served with snap peas and tofu. (Their pressed lamb was almost reminiscent of a terrine or rillettes.)<br />
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Team 4 with their multiple courses including a remarkable lamb tallow blueberry parfait. (I know what you are thinking, lamb tallow and desert just don't quite mix - but they do! The lamb fat added a wonderful umami sensation to the dish.)<br />
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Team 6 with their trio of homemade lamb sausages. (This was a crowd favorite and the line was long for almost the entire festival.)<br />
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Team 8 with their amazing grape leaves, kebabs and hummus. (This team also brought a wonderful exuberance to the festival and made you feel right at home. The grape leaves were almost as good as the ones my mother makes.)<br />
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I'd also like to give a shout-out to the folks from <a href="http://www.pittsburghhappyhour.com/2016/05/scratch-troy-hill.html">Scratch Food and Beverage</a> who put together a very nice lamb dish atop dirty rice. It tasted just like something my family would make.<br />
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Overall this is a really great event that is well worth the $65 ticket price. Unlike similar events there is no need to be intimidated by the long lines. Even after hours of slinging lamb not a single one of the vendors had stopped serving food. Be prepared to immediately retire to your couch if you attempt to sample each dish. This is a true lamb feast. <br />
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<br />Pittsburgh HappyHourhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08344852771467844704noreply@blogger.com1