AOL PICK from our Editors
Pittsburgh's nightlife offers a little of everything. You'll find historic speakeasies dating back to Prohibition, brewpubs, lounges, sports bars, nightclubs, cafés, theaters, comedy clubs and terrific music venues. Nightspots tend to pop up in clusters, making it possible to walk from venue to venue in almost every neighborhood. The problem isn’t so much finding a good bar as it is deciding where to start. Pittsburghers work hard and party hard, so whether you're sipping Scotch in a fancy hotel or dancing the night away with a vodka-cranberry, you'll be in good company, especially Thursday through Saturday nights. A couple of things to know: You can smoke in many of the bars in Pittsburgh, so either rejoice or complain, accordingly. Also, though it can feel small-townish and comfortable at night, be aware that crime rates are on a par with other major cities in the United States. Don't try anything stupid. Bars close at 2AM, but with a little research, you can find a few that bend the rules. That's it! Have fun!
Neighborhood: Northside Yeah, we know the Warhol Museum is a cultural experience, but it also offers a nightlife experience like no other. The museum stays open late on “Good Fridays” with half-price entrance fee, a cash bar and an atmosphere Andy himself would surely have appreciated. It’s a favorite outing for locals, a night of enjoying the revered pop artist’s work and a chance to imagine yourself a member of his infamous “Factory.”
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Andy Warhol Museum
Neighborhood: The Strip District The 31st Street Pub in the Strip District is one of Pittsburgh’s best bars and the place to catch up on the local underground music scene. The array of music ranges from punk to hard rock and more. If you like to drink beer and listen to music, this former (1980s-era) biker bar is your place. The website gives this irreverent disclaimer: "This site contains vulgar and offensive language, nudity (if you're lucky), depictions of anti-social behavior and alcohol consumption." So, you know, don't bring the kids. No, seriously, don't bring them.
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Neighborhood: Northside Penn Brewery is in the restored 19th century Eberhardt and Ober Brewery. Here, you can sample over a dozen different German-inspired beers brewed onsite. This comfortable Northside hangout offers a varied selection of microbrews along with its signature Penn Pilsner. If you’re hungry, you can also take advantage of its German and American cuisine served at family-style tables in the dining hall. During the warmer months, check out the brewery’s outdoor biergarten, where on alternating Fridays throughout the summer there’s live music.
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Neighborhood: Bloomfield Opened by two locals who moved back to Pittsburgh after a stint in New York City, the Brillo Box is named after the artwork of the Steel City’s own Andy Warhol. Dinner can be eaten on the first floor before you make your way upstairs to enjoy some of the local underground music scene including rock, punk and more. Brillo Box hosts live events, from karaoke to film, almost every night of the week. Ticket prices to events vary, so check online before heading there.
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Neighborhood: Lawrenceville Tamari is a snazzy looking tapas and sushi hotspot in the hipster neighborhood of Lawrenceville. Go for the food, go for the bar, go for the outfits, but make sure you don’t miss the second-story deck with its enchanting skyline view. This is a great location if you are looking for a place to grab a bite, a beer (or both) and relax with friends. It closes at 11PM, so you can use Tamari as your starting point for a night on the town—fueled by ceviche and sashimi as well as sake and seasonally-infused cocktails.
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Tamari