Granted football is king in many cities throughout the United States, but none more than Pittsburgh. I know this to be a fact after having either lived in or visited every state, with the exception of Hawaii, and hundreds of cities. Pittsburgh is a shining example of great sportsmanship, fan loyalty, enthusiastic ownership groups, and fantastic sports bars.
COMPLETE PACKAGE
Tops on the list is my number one favorite spot downtown to watch the Steelers, Penguins, college basketball and boxing: One10 Bar and Lounge on Smithfield Street. The friendly staff and smoke-free environment is second to none.
The menu offers a wide variety of dishes from Fried Pierogie and Zucchini Fritter appetizers to the Ginormous Fish Sandwich ($9.95). Have Chef Pat throw together a North Side Buffalo Chicken Salad ($8.95). The thing is served in a bowl normally reserved for PUNCH! During the bowl games, wings will be 35 cents, 22 oz domestic draft beers are only $3.00.
Whether you belly up to the bar, have a seat in the dining area or climb upstairs, you will be treated like family. If not, ask to speak with Mr. T. Starr. He will treat you right! The address is 110 Smithfield St., just minutes from Station Square. Call Angel at 412.562.0238 for additional information and reservations for your private party.
GREAT DRINK SPECIALS
On Mt. Washington, across the Smithfield Bridge and up the Mon Incline, sits a local favorite. Cafe Nikos on Shiloh Street has the best drink prices in town — handsdown! All of the locals visit the bar daily, whether it’s to be a part of the morning coffee council or knock down a cold beer after the overnight shift. For those on a budget, the domestic drafts are a $1.50 everyday, all day, til seven o’clock. After seven, the prices jump to $1.75! Shut the front door! Because of the always low prices, Cafe Nikos premier bar tender, Scoops, laughed when I asked about BCS Bowl Game Specials. Point well taken, Scoops.
Located at 212 Shiloh Street in Mt. Washington, a mere 150 ft or so from the Mon incline, Cafe Nikos is Mt. Washington’s best kept secret for budget-conscious party-goers that prefer to smoke while they watch the game and enjoy a few adult beverages. Pool tables are available. Smoking is permitted. Food is served daily after 5:00. Visit their Facebook page for daily specials and promotions or call 412.381.4322 for more information, directions and parking information.
Giovanni lives in Pittsburgh and will be rooting for Penn State since neither Pitt nor USF have much to do after Christmas.
Read more from this contributor:
“What is the Mon Incline”
“Three of the Greatest Pittsburgh Steelers of All-time”
“Tampa Bay Buccaneers Notable Draft Busts”