8-28-16 / Bakn / Carnegie, PA

The following day, my Mother-in-Law offered to take my wife and me out to brunch. I'd heard good things and read positive reviews, so we decided to check out Bakn. A fun, open, and bright bistro, I hope to see more life breathed into Carnegie. It's always exciting when discovering fun gems outside of the … Continue reading 8-28-16 / Bakn / Carnegie, PA

8-21-16 / Golden Eagle Inn / Bedford Springs, PA

The night of the meal at the Crystal Room, my wife and I checked into the bed and breakfast she'd made reservations for us at the Golden Eagle Inn. The room was spacious and well-accommodated, with  huge windows and high ceilings, a modern bathroom, and a wonderful king-sized bed. In the morning when we woke, we went … Continue reading 8-21-16 / Golden Eagle Inn / Bedford Springs, PA

8-20-16 / The Crystal Room at the Omni Hotel and Resort / Bedford Springs, PA

As a wonderful surprise for my birthday last month, my wife took me on a weekend trip to Bedford Springs, PA for dinner at The Crystal Room, followed by overnight accommodations, and brunch at the Golden Eagle Inn (more about that in the next post). I'd been very excited to dine at the Crystal Room for … Continue reading 8-20-16 / The Crystal Room at the Omni Hotel and Resort / Bedford Springs, PA

7-29-16 / Istanbul Sofra / Pittsburgh, PA

Friday night, my wife and I joined my parents for a meal at one of my favorite local Middle Eastern restaurants, Istanbul Sofra. A nice, small restaurant, with a well-curated menu and outstanding hospitality and service, this is one of my favorite local restaurants. Teeming with heart and outstanding quality of food, I love going out … Continue reading 7-29-16 / Istanbul Sofra / Pittsburgh, PA

7-22-16 / Butcher and the Rye / Pittsburgh, PA

While waiting for the Music of David Bowie with the Pittsburgh Symphony  to start at Heinz Hall, my wife and I realized we'd yet to make dinner plans, so I quickly called across the street to Butcher and the Rye and made some late-night reservations. I'd never been there before, but my wife had, and she'd greatly enjoyed … Continue reading 7-22-16 / Butcher and the Rye / Pittsburgh, PA

7-15-16 / Chengdu Gourmet / Pittsburgh, PA

Friday evening, my wife and I joined my parents for dinner in Squirrel Hill. For many years, the only options that I had for Chinese food were the few "American" Chinese restaurants in Squirrel Hill. As the city invited more food cultures in and became more receptive to more "ethnic foods", it was inspiring to see more authentic Szechuan Chinese … Continue reading 7-15-16 / Chengdu Gourmet / Pittsburgh, PA