If you enjoy the strip district and frequent the East End Tap Room, there was always that “coming soon” vibe to the building it inhabits. Remember when they had black tarp on the ceiling? Or when there was that sign with this wildly beautiful space rendered on a computer image? Well guess what… IT’S FINALLY HERE! Boasting a charcuterie program fit for Tony Soprano himself, bubbly pizza from Romulus Pizza al Taglio, Edgars Tacos, and an outdoor courtyard, there is something for everybody in this place. They have a WINE library so expansive that it rivals the Carnegie Library’s book offerings. Since our first encounter, the beers have morphed from Coors light, with the most “fancy” of beers being Sam Adams Oktoberfest, to our most recent visit, where we sipped on Hitchhiker Whole Punch Series and super hopped IPAs whilst under a beautiful blue January sky. As an outdoorsy type that enjoys drinking on patios, PA Market’s courtyard scratches the itch.
AMBIANCE
Inside: In all seriousness, this is one of the most beautiful spaces in the Burgh. A true honor to the industrial modern style: wrought iron gates block the staircase when closed, beautiful Edison lights hang both above the bar and lounge space, exposed brick pretty much everywhere you look, and absolutely gorgeous wine cabinets fit for a French chalet. If you are looking to order some food upstairs, you’ll immediately be transported to a food hall style ordering system. Booths span the long counter, with Romulus and their pizza oven to the charcuterie masters slicing dried Italian meats. Below, you can see a great snapshot of their wine library and FANTASTIC lounge area.
Outside: This place has absolutely transformed from a year ago! Upon entering the courtyard, you are met with a true open air marketplace complete with city tours, tacos, a gorgeous mosaic pizza oven (sup Dante), and of course a bar stocked with a taps, wine, draft beers, and bottled beers hidden behind wooden doors. If there is in fact a fridge behind the doors, then they did a damn good job hiding it. There are plenty of spots to sit and enjoy the great outdoors with your pooch (they are allowed, and encouraged, in the outdoor area).
Of all the bars in Pittsburgh, this one may be the greatest indoor/outdoor space you could ask for. Well worth the wait!
FOOD
The food at PA market is all about choices. You can pair a delicious slice of Romulus Dante pizza with some charcuterie or something from the stationsitchen. Outside, Edgar is slinging some of the best tacos you can get in Pittsburgh. The tacos are insanely tasty, and while we were at the outside Market, unfortunately Edgar wasn’t open. At least 5 people (we werent there long) came in looking for Edgar and his tacos, so you know these things must be damn good.
DRINKS
Beers – our first trip to PA Market, we were slightly disappointed. There weren’t many choices and the bottle menu was nowhere to be found. BOY, HAVE THINGS CHANGED! PA Market has an made a shift! They still have a staple or two on tap, including Blue Moon and Coors. With that being said, they have added some kick ass options: Hitchhiker Brewing Company has made an appearance, with their whole punch series, and Spoonwood has a couple kegs in the queue.
Wines – we don’t know a whole heck of a lot about wine other than ordering the darkest dryest red that the place has to offer. PA Market has PLENTY of our wine, and plenty of wines that you’ll have to just point and ask for. Seriously, so many options from around the world!
Craft Cocktails – Sourcing excellent ingredients from around the globe, you’ll surely find a cocktail of intrigue. While sitting at the outdoor bar, we were able to try a couple cocktails that nearly took us off our stools, one in particular really took our breath away. Pairing smoky tequila with dragon fruit juice, this cocktail takes you far away from Pittsburgh to a simple, boozy place. Topped with tarragon, your brain will be 100% confused on what to expect from the first sip.
THE REAL REASON WE LOVE IT
From 5-7 PM, PA Market offers 1/2 off all beers and $2 off all cocktails and glasses of wine. If you aren’t a wine yinzer, take the time to order a glass and try something new! Ask the knowledgeable bartenders what would pair well with your Romulus Dante pizza, or one of kitchen’s delicious creations.
WHAT TO ORDER
Personally, we LOVE Romulus Dante pizza. Every time we go, we snag a slice of pizza and take it with us wherever we roam. If you see the man in this picture, ask to see his special menu. He whips up some fantastic cocktails, and may have something special. If you aren’t a craft cocktail person, splurge for some international wine or a Pittsburgh beer.