SouthSide Archives - Discover the Burgh

The Distillery Complex Offers Libations With Skyline Views

August 7, 2025

The Distillery Complex by Big Spring Spirits was many years in the making.

We have been following along with their restoration efforts of the Joseph S. Finch rickhouse building in South Side with great interest, as it is our personal opinion that Pittsburgh could use way more bars and restaurants with city (and river) views.

When we found out that the space was finally going to be open for visitors in July 2025 (thanks to a tip-off at the Allegheny County Wine & Spirits Festival the week prior), we knew we had to get in right away. So we watched for an official announcement on social media, found details on their relatively quiet soft open, and made our way over to this great new spot just a few minutes later.

This one was worth the wait!

Nan Xiang Soup Dumplings Review – A Dumpling Feast

June 24, 2025

Nan Xiang Soup Dumplings got its start in Flushing, New York, a few decades ago and has since garnered a huge following, expanding to multiple locations in several states. Needless to say, the opening of a location right here in Pittsburgh created a huge initial buzz and anticipation.

We visited soon after opening and enjoyed the fun vibe, the variety of soup dumplings on offer, and several of the non-dumpling menu offerings.

The Pittsburgh Thunderbirds Bring Ultimate Frisbee to South Side

May 13, 2025

Did you know Pittsburgh is home to a professional Ultimate Frisbee team?

The Pittsburgh Thunderbirds are part of the Ultimate Frisbee Association (UFA) and play their home games at Highmark Stadium throughout the season, typically running from May to July.

So, what is Ultimate Frisbee all about, and what can you expect from a game? We were guests of the Pittsburgh Thunderbirds at the home opener in the 2025 season and share more in this one!

Gandy Dancer Saloon is a Timeless Classic in Station Square

May 13, 2025

When we visit Station Square, odds are good it is for brunch at the opulent Grand Concourse– a former train hub converted into a fine dining restaurant.

But did you know this space also has an equally historic (and beautiful) bar known as the Gandy Dancer Saloon? Next time you're in Station Square looking for a beverage, check this one out for the vibe as much as the drinks and food (oh, and their killer happy hour, too!)

La Bodega Taqueria Review – A Surprising Find in South Side

November 28, 2024November 26, 2024

La Bodega Taqueria is one of those places that we absolutely love to discover in Pittsburgh.

We did not know this one had opened up right on the heart of East Carson Street in South Side, and only stumbled upon it while driving to meet friends for drinks at Acacia a few blocks away.

In the brief seconds it took us to drive by, we knew where we had to end up for dinner after, and a short while later we made our way down the block for some delicious, delicious Mexican food.

Traveler’s Rest Hotel Review – Boutique Hotel on the GAP

August 29, 2024August 29, 2024

As avid travelers, we've done our fair share of overnight stays in hostels and boutique hotels- from $3 hole-in-the-walls in central China to high-end lodge-esque accommodations dedicated to hikers in Patagonia. Whenever we need to travel economically, we look toward shared dorms and private rooms in order to meet our travel goals.

One thing that always bothered me about the Pittsburgh hotel scene is that our budget and boutique hotel offerings are much more limited compared to higher-priced chains.

Traveler's Rest is one boutique hotel that opened up in South Side near Station Square and it certainly fills a need!

I was invited to the hotel for an overnight stay and wanted to share a bit more about this hidden gem in the South Side.

Note: I was a guest of Traveler's Rest Hotel for this review and have since returned for a tour after the property was upgraded to take updated photos and see the changes first-hand. As always, all opinions are my own.

Kura Revolving Sushi Bar Review – A Fun Sushi Experience

October 3, 2023

Kura Revolving Sushi Bar, a restaurant chain with over 50 US locations, now has a location in Pittsburgh's SouthSide Works. We had dinner at Kura recently and were delighted with the atmosphere and the variety of options available- from nigiri to maki to made-to-order hot dishes.

Eating here was an experience and just plain fun!

Pins Mechanical Co. Brings the Fun and Drinks in South Side

November 16, 2022

We always wondered what would go into the old movie theater space in South Side Works, and we have to admit an entertainment complex was not the first thing on our radar.

But when Columbus-based Pins Mechanical Co. announced they were opening a two-floor, 30,000-square-foot bar and gaming facility, complete with duckpin bowling, pinball, vintage arcade games, and more, we were intrigued.

We were fortunate enough to check this one out shortly after opening for a media event, and have to admit this one packs a punch (and then some)!

Sly Fox Brewing Review – A Great Time at The Highline

July 23, 2024October 7, 2022

When we first visited Sly Fox Brewing, it was for their downtown Pittsburgh location just steps away from Point State Park.

To put it bluntly, we were not fans.

While the beer was true-to-form for their traditional styles, we just generally thought the space was small, cramped even when the patio was closed, and wasn't the kind of place we would make a dedicated trip downtown to enjoy. If you work nearby it is great for a quick round, but we just never found ourselves prioritizing a second visit.

Thankfully, Sly Fox Brewing has opened a second location in Pittsburgh, at the stunning Highline in South Side (close to Station Square right on the Great Allegheny Passage), and has quickly become one of our favorite spots for beer in Pittsburgh!

A 5-Mile Walking Tour of Pittsburgh to See 17 Highlights

July 16, 2025June 30, 2020

When we visit cities around the world as travelers, one of the first things we do is figure out a grand walking tour in order to get a feel for the city. We generally take anywhere from a half-day or full-day to do these self-guided city tours and really love checking things out on foot.

Until now, we had never put together one of these guides for Pittsburgh as our 90 neighborhoods often make it difficult to get around and see them all. Still, the neighborhoods in and around the central business district in downtown Pittsburgh have quite a lot to see and many of these spots are on the radar of those visiting Pittsburgh for the first time as well as long-time residents.

So in this one, we wanted to share what we consider to be the ultimate walking tour of downtown Pittsburgh! This walking tour covers five miles in the North Side, downtown Pittsburgh, Mount Washington, and Station Square and has 17 unique highlights worth checking out.

So put your walking shoes on and get to exploring this beautiful city!