Pittsburgh is known for being gritty, unpretentious, and having a strong sense of community — kind of like a neighborhood dive bar!
City Cast Pittsburgh’s Megan Harris sat down with Aubrey Halliburton and Lisa Considine, owners of Lo Places Social Club and Lo Bar Cocktail Services in McKees Rocks, to hear about their favorite places to drink when they're off the clock.
Take A Break Bar
📍Lawrenceville
In a past life, Lo Places Social Club was known as Take A Break Too, so it's no surprise that Aubrey and Lisa love the original location. With motorcycle and Steelers memorabilia, wood paneling, and pool tables, this is the dive bar with the most yinzer spirit. And if you're lucky, there's going to be something delicious cooking in a Crock-Pot.
Riggs Lounge
📍North Side
Riggs Lounge wins the award for best bathroom…that just may raise your expectations. It's marble and well-lit, which is a stark contrast to the smoky velvet walls and tiny wall lamps by the bar. Sip your beverage of choice while playing Skee-Ball or picking tunes on the jukebox.
Mardi Gras
📍Shadyside
Usually it's best practice to skip anything "freshly squeezed" at a dive bar, but Mardi Gras keeps whole oranges and grapefruits behind the counter for their signature greyhound. The cocktails are strong, and you can order a juice with your preferred liquor or order off the menu. Come for the drinks, stay for the jukebox and great neighborly vibes.
Ruggers Pub
📍South Side
Drinking for cheap is the expectation at any dive bar, but Ruggers Pub has some affordable pours that are worth the trip. Aubrey says they make the best Bloody Mary in the city, and there are often specials on shots. She begrudgingly tried a cinnamon toast pudding shot that ended up being quite tasty. Plus, this bar's off East Carson Street, so you can avoid the bigger crowds.
Rock Room
📍Polish Hill
Feeling chatty? If you're looking to make friends or get the best neighborhood gossip, Rock Room is the place. While the bar is known for its punk scene (and punk shows!), anyone and everyone is welcome.
Conley's
📍Lawrenceville
Conley’s is the spot for seasoned dive bar enthusiasts. In fact, Lisa says that you really don't need to go. It's dark, grimy, and smoker-friendly. The interior seems like it hasn't been touched since the steel mills closed, and in true dive bar fashion, you'll find regulars there at 7 a.m. when it opens.
