Soak Up the Summer Bliss: Pittsburgh's Hottest Food and Drink Events

As the summer season winds down, Pittsburgh is gearing up for a flurry of exciting food and drink events that promise to delight the senses and bid farewell to the warmer months in style. From rooftop beach parties and Greek food festivals to whiskey pairings and chicken tender takeovers, the Steel City is serving up a diverse array of culinary experiences for locals and visitors alike.

Indulge in the Flavors of Summer and Beyond

Rooftop Beach Party at the Biergarten

Escape the hustle and bustle of Downtown Pittsburgh and embrace the summer bliss at the Biergarten at Hotel Monaco's second annual rooftop beach party. On Thursday, August 15th, from 5 to 9 PM, guests can soak up the sun and enjoy a lineup of beach-inspired cocktails and summer-themed bites. In celebration of National Rum Day, the Biergarten has partnered with Maggie's Farm Rum Distillery to serve up a selection of craft cocktails, including the Put it in Reverse Sherry and Hooked on a Feeling. Live entertainment, beach blanket bingo, a sandcastle-building contest, and oversized lawn games will add to the festive atmosphere, making this a must-attend event for those seeking a taste of summer bliss.

Farewell to Summer with an Ice Cream Party

As the summer season draws to a close, the Braddock Carnegie Library Association is hosting an ice cream party on Friday, August 16th, from 1 to 3 PM at the Braddock's Battlefield History Center. This family-friendly event is the perfect way to bid farewell to the warmer months with a sweet treat. Attendees of all ages are invited to indulge in a final scoop of ice cream and enjoy the company of their community.

Dessert Delights with WQED's "America's Home Cooking: Sweets"

For those with a sweet tooth, WQED is launching a new cooking show, "America's Home Cooking: Sweets," hosted by the award-winning Chris Fennimore. Premiering on Saturday, August 17th, the show will take viewers on a culinary journey through Fennimore's most cherished dessert recipes, including Kentucky Derby Pie, Loaded Chocolate Biscotti, and Nana's Italian Love Cake. Viewers can tune in to WQED-TV or stream the show online to learn step-by-step instructions for creating these mouthwatering treats.

Sparkling Wine Showdown at City Winery

City Winery Pittsburgh is hosting the finale of its Summer Wine Games on Monday, August 19th at 7 PM. This event pits French Champagne and Prosecco against Brut rosé and Italian sparkling reds in a head-to-head tasting competition. A sommelier from Dreadnought Wines will guide guests through the event, providing insights and commentary on the various sparkling wines. Tickets are and can be purchased online, making this an engaging and educational experience for wine enthusiasts.

Explore East Liberty's Best Bites

Made in PGH is organizing the biggest-ever Best Bites tour, taking place on Saturday, August 24th from 12 to 4 PM. This self-guided walking tour will showcase 22 curated tasting spots in the East Liberty neighborhood, ranging from Mexican cuisine and milkshakes to sushi and Yinzer-inspired fare. Guests can embark on a foodie adventure, sampling a variety of dishes and summer cocktails, and then vote for their favorite bites in a People's Choice Awards. Tickets are and can be purchased online, offering a unique opportunity to discover the diverse culinary offerings of East Liberty.

Revel in Wigle Whiskey Pairings

Revel, Downtown's "refined American restaurant," is showcasing Wigle Whiskey for its Chef's Pairing Series on Thursday, August 29th at 6 PM. Guests can indulge in a curated four-course menu of fine dining selections, each expertly paired with Wigle Whiskey cocktails. The menu features a range of delectable dishes, from a bacon and white chocolate ganache-dusted popcorn starter to basil fettuccine and pan-seared duck breast entrees. Tickets are per person and can be purchased online, offering a unique opportunity to savor the flavors of Wigle Whiskey in a fine dining setting.

Taste of Greece at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church

As the summer season winds down, Pittsburgh's Greek food festival circuit comes to a close with the Taste of Greece event at the Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church in McCandless. Running from Thursday, August 29th to Sunday, September 1st, this 52nd annual festival celebrates the rich culinary and cultural heritage of Greece. Foodies can indulge in a variety of traditional Greek dishes, including braised lamb shank, souvlaki, moussaka, and an array of pastries. In addition to the mouthwatering food, the festival also features live music, dancing, and tours of the church's iconography and artisanal woodworking.

Kickoff and Rib Festival at Acrisure Stadium

Football season is just around the corner, and the Kickoff and Rib Festival at Acrisure Stadium is the perfect way to celebrate the start of the season. From Thursday, August 29th to Sunday, September 1st, the annual festival will feature concerts, fair food, games, and, of course, an array of delicious ribs from local restaurants and caterers. Attendees can enjoy the rich football history of Western Pennsylvania, catch a glimpse of the elusive Pittsburgh Steelers mascot Steely McBeam, and indulge in the best barbecue the region has to offer.

Dave's Hot Chicken Expands to Pittsburgh

The Los Angeles-based fast-casual chain Dave's Hot Chicken is set to make its mark on the Pittsburgh food scene, with plans to open ten new locations in the region over the next five years. Known for its Nashville-style hot chicken, Dave's offers tenders and sliders with a range of spice levels, from "No Spice" to "Reaper," as well as a variety of sides, including house-made kale slaw, mac and cheese, and crispy or cheese fries. This expansion will undoubtedly elevate Pittsburgh's status as a hub for chicken tender enthusiasts, offering a unique and flavorful addition to the city's diverse culinary landscape.