Another Square Deal Downtown

 Hey, it really is hip to be square around these parts these days. After all, Market Square is one of the hottest new dining and nightlife destination spots in Downtown. And in just a few months, we'll welcome back warmer weather with an exciting new schedule of al fresco events in the Square, including the Farmers Market, noontime concerts and the Carnegie Library Reading Room.

Mellon Square opening ceremony
October 18, 1955

But right now Market Square's sister square —Mellon Square — is getting a major overhaul that promises to make this mid-city oasis greener and better than ever thanks to the Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy, the City of Pittsburgh and many generous individuals and organizations who are supporting the project.

Working on the Cascade Fountain at the
corner of Wood and Oliver

With the PPC guiding the project, the Mellon Square makeover will cover a lot of ground. In fact, just about every square inch of our sister square will receive some extra special TLC over the next months. In fact, works crews have been on the job since the dog days of last summer, cleaning and repairing the stairways from Smithfield Street, waterproofing the terraces that over hang the shops below and enjoying a great bird's-eye view of some exciting chase scenes from this summer's sure-bet big-screen blockbuster "The Dark Knight Rises." 

Before square one: Parking lots and shops occupied
the spot that became Mellon Square. Courtesy
the Heinz History Center.

While Market Square's been part of the Pittsburgh scene since the city's earliest pioneer days, Mellon Square is a more recent chip off the old ’Burgh block. When it opened in 1955, Mellon Square was a crowning jewel of the city's famed first Renaissance, which helped Pittsburgh blow away its "Smokey City" image. Replacing a crowded block of shops and surface parking lots, Mellon Square earned a place in urban planning as the first green space built on top of an underground parking garage. Since then, generations of Pittsburghers over the past half-century have flocked to the park for a moment of solitude during the day or to relax with co-workers during lunch. 



The City Green: Robert Bowden captures the
beauty of the renovated Mellon Square
in his watercolor rendition.

When the job's done, Mellon Square will more closely bring to life  the original vision for the space. Though part of the initial blueprints, a terrace over the street-level shops never made the final cut. But nearly 60 years later, the former giant planter will welcome visitors to a rectangular refuge from the streets below with grassy areas, benches and handicapped access. The falling waters of the Cascade Fountain will be turned on again and the park's center fountain and pool will shoot spouts of water high in the sky. New trees have already taken root in repaired planter boxes. And while the completed project will most certainly please the eyes of all beholders, some of the most incredible work is below the surface as workers have installed new drainage and irrigation systems, insulation, electrical wiring and waterproofing. 

 So don't forget to take a few steps toward Mellon Square when you're out on the town. You'll enjoy an amazing work in progress.

Market Square 2011 Rookies of the Year

From the Grammys to the Oscars, it's awards season again. While the entertainment industry is honoring the tops of the pops and big-screen blockbusters, we're here to shine the spotlight on the 2011 Market Square Rookies of the Year and our Comeback of the Year. And the winners are...

Winghart's Burgers & Whiskey Bar 

When the doors to this burger joint opened on a freezing cold day last January, the lines were already forming almost to Forbes Avenue. Tucked into the southwest corner of the Square, Winghart's serves its specialty hamburgers to everyone from local deal-making execs and degree-earning college students to tattooed hipsters and Cultural District bound families from the ’burbs. And with waitstaff servers straight from an Elmore Leonard novel or Tom Waits' song, Winghart's grilled burgers and wood-oven gourmet pizzas taste even better with a pint of microbrew beer or a shot of special-blend whiskey. Open 11 a.m.-midnight Monday-Friday and noon-10 p.m. Saturday.

NOLA on the Square

Come on and let the good times roll at NOLA, where executive chef Andrew Hebson combines the spirit of Bourbon Street with Creole-infused kitchen creations to deliver a taste of the Crescent City on the Square. To help diners better enjoy the New Orleans vibe, NOLA gets jazzy with live music at least two nights during the week and free valet parking every evening. Whether it's a pre-show cocktail at the bar or a sit-down dinner after the final curtain — or both — NOLA brings the flavors of the Big Easy to Downtown. Get in on the Mardi Gras groove at NOLA 11 a.m-11 p.m. Monday through Saturday.

DiBella's Old-Fashioned Subs

You'll almost need to pinch yourself upon entering DiBella's in the Square. The old-time look inside this brand-spanking new location is so authentic it feels as though it's been around since the first town criers shouted the daily news to early Pittsburghers who gathered around the Square. The menu features made-to-order sandwiches stacked with freshly sliced meats on baked-on-the-premises breads that are big enough to satisfy just about any size appetite. And with Downtown becoming a 24/7 destination, DiBella's is open every day from 10 a.m-9 p.m. for hungry early birds and night owls.

Taste of Dahntahn Lounge
You don't have to be a Yinzer to love the homespun flavors and humor of Liberty Avenue's newest dining hot spot. Flavored with hints of Dino and Old Blue Eyes and just off the Square, Taste of Dahntahn keeps its glorious kitschy-retro neon sign on from dawn to dusk. During the week, TOD opens at 6:30 a.m for breakfast (and 8 a.m. on the weekends) and stays busy in the kitchen way after the sun goes down. This trip along Downtown's memory lane includes tabletops decorated with old-time photos of the city and Rat Pack Vegas-style entertainment. And don't forget the all-you-can-eat crab legs every Monday night.

Anna's La Cucina Flegrea
"That's amore" might best describe the special ingredient in the southern-Italian dishes that owner Anna Fevola creates in the kitchen of her second-floor restaurant that overlooks the Square from its lofty Graeme Street vantage point. A longtime fixture in Squirrel Hill, Anna is a welcome addition to the Square, where many of her fans are already enjoying her new home in Downtown. Come join Anna for a taste of Italia on Mondays 11:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m., Tuesday through Saturdays 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m. and Sundays 12:30-8 p.m.

Noodles & Co.

Literally the new kid on the block—for at least the next couple weeks—Noodles & Co. serves noodles, soups, salads, pastas, sandwiches, and Rice Krispie treats every day from 11 a.m.-9 p.m. with extended hours on Friday and Saturday until 10 p.m. Because there are no can openers, microwaves or freezers, every plate of mac and cheese, fried pan noodles and penne is served fresh and made-to-order.With plenty of windows and a bright open dining room, Noodles & Co. is a perfect place for a comfort food and people watching on the Square all day long.

Diamond Market Bar & Grill

We says "cheers" to the Diamond Market Bar & Grill, a cozy corner tavern and restaurant where it seems that everyone knows your name — or soon will. With a nod to the Square's history, the Diamond Market Bar & Grill's name and decor recall an era when locals flocked to the space once known as "The Diamond" for meeting, eating and greeting purposes. With a menu of gourmet Angus hamburgers, sandwiches, craft beers and classic cocktails, this is one Diamond that sparkles plenty. Stop by any day of the week from 11 a.m.-10 p.m. for a bite to eat and even later for a nightcap at the bar.

Sinobi 2 Go

Serving healthy food at happy prices is the mission of this Asian-accented eatery on Market Street. Though it sports a small counter for eating in, Sinobi 2 Go lives up to its name with a takeout menu that's heavy on Japanese and Korean sushi and vegetarian dishes— but not calories. One of the house specialties is the Korean hot dog, an All-American wiener topped with a spicy kimchi and shredded pork or chicken. Perfect for lunch or a quick bite for the ride home, Sinobi 2 Go is open 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday through Saturday.

Las Velas

We tip our sombreros to our amigos at Las Velas for a much-anticipated and welcome return to the Square. After a fire closed this Mexican eatery late in 2010, Las Velas reopened in 2011 with a hot, hot, hot comeback. With south of the border favorites on the revamped menu, Las Velas earns a hearty "Ole!" for its traditional burritos, smothered enchiladas and seafood. And don't forget to order fresh chips and salsa and an authentic margarita to complete this culinary road trip to Mexico. Las Velas is open 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Monday-Thursday, 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Friday and Saturday and noon-8 p.m Sunday.

And for an even bigger taste of the city's best dining, Pittsburgh Restaurant Week 2012 serves up a wide sampling of the city's top restaurants. With great choices all over town, participating Downtown restaurants include Market Square's Bella Sera Urban Trattoria, Elements just down the block on Stanwix, and Habitat located in the Fairmont Pittsburgh. Bon appetit!

Oodles of Noodles in the Square

You could say we've been around the block a time or two when it comes to dining in Market Square. With so many great choices, sometimes we make our meal choices by playing a culinary version of spin the bottle. But no matter what direction we end up heading, we always come up with a winner. Now —with the opening of Noodles & Co. — everyone can expand their lunch and dinner destinations in the Square to savor flavors from around the world without ever leaving the heart of Downtown.

Ever since its debut just a few day before Christmas, Noodles & Co. has been living up to its mission to serve classic dishes from around the world, right in our neighborhood. With a menu that features freshly prepared comfort food from the U.S., the Mediterranean and Asia, Noodles & Co. is your passport to noodle dishes, pasta, soups and sandwiches served just how you like them. From All-American favorites like three types of grown-up macaroni and cheese to zesty penne and spicy Japanese pan noodles, Noodles & Co. puts a special accent on every item they serve.

Located between the Oyster House and DiBella's Subs, Noodles & Co. is already building a loyal following among the Downtown lunch crowd. Most days, lines form outside even before they unlock the door at 11 a.m. Back for second trip with a friend in tow, Brian Decima discovered Noodles & Co. on one of his frequent lunchtime treks to the Square. Along with the "great service and nice atmosphere," He likes the freshness of the food, especially the plate of Pad Thai he ordered on this visit.

That fresh taste is no trick, since Noodles & Co. uses just-off-the-truck produce and meats that are delivered a couple times each week. "We don't have a freezer or can opener in any of our locations," says market training manager, Liz Camp. Even more impressive, there's a "no nukes" policy, since microwaves are taboo, too. So, if your Bangkok curry or chicken noodle soup isn't piping hot, you get a fresh serving.  And for more finicky diners, the staff can customize any item on the menu. "We want everyone to be completely satisfied every time they eat here," she says.

Like we said, Noodles & Co. attracts a big lunch time crowd that dines on the premises. In most case, meals are ready in three to four minutes and delivered to your table by the efficient staff. However, if you don't have the time to wait, you can order online or through an iPhone app. "We get a lot of takeout orders from nearby offices," says Liz. "We're trying to give people as many options to enjoy Noodles & Co. as possible." With dining options from around the world — and open every day from 11 a.m.-9 p.m.— Noodles & Co. is a global dining treat right here at home.

You Say You Got A Resolution

The holidays are gone for another year. But we're still making lists. This time around instead of gifts, we're jotting down resolutions. Now, we've heard some people talking about training for the 2012 Pittsburgh Marathon. Others say they want to pedal from Pittsburgh to the nation's capital along the Great Allegheny Passage  from the Steel City to Washington, D.C. But most of us just want to shed a few of those 7 to 10 pounds that most Americans put on during the holiday season. Which means, we're going to tell you to take a hike to Market Square to help you get 2012 started on the right — and healthy — track.

Normally, when we point you in the direction of the Square, it's to sample the great eats at any one of the 17 dining establishments that circle the Square. Don't worry, we'll get around to that. But since most of us are packing a few extra pounds, this walk to the Square will be a start trimming the fat from our waistlines and diets. And the first stop is the PNC Y. Technically, the new, LEED-certified YMCA is on Fifth Avenue, across the street from the new PNC Bank branch office. But, with its bird's eye views of the Square, we're claiming the Y as part of our turf. Inside, you can get physical in the Y's more than 44,000 square feet spread over three floors stocked with state-of-the-art weight training equipment, aerobics facilities, swimming pool, group exercise and other workout gear and programs. More than a gym, your local Y is a community.  Hey employers... if you want to encourage healthy staff behaviors the YMCA has employer-based programs available.  And can you think of a better way to run your way to fitness than on a treadmill that overlooks the Square?

If you're looking to pump some iron—but not the local brew—Gold's Gym on the corner of Forbes and Stanwix blends old school workouts with new era programs for an overall approach to fitness. Perched on the second floor of the Kossman building, Gold's offers cardio-powered programs to build strength and stamina as well as exercise plans that combine tai chi, yoga and pilates to increase flexibility and inner calmness.

Workouts and training programs are just fine. But we all need a daily dose of vitamins, minerals, proteins and other nutrients to keep healthy. To stock up on vitamins from A to Z, along with high-energy snacks to fuel your most intense workouts, drop in at the GNC store just across the street from Dunkin Donuts. Yes, there are some strange bedfellows on the Square!

As we said, we still want you to eat in the Square. After all, all those eateries — old, new and still to come — are among the reasons why the Square is one of the most exciting destinations in all of Pittsburgh these days. But for the next few months, keep moderation in mind. Sure, every once in a while you can indulge in a beefy Double Mattola at Winghart's or the pasta al quattro formaggi—that's Italian for pasta with four cheeses—at La Cucina Flegrea. Just remember that there are a multitude of less calorie-intense menu options at just about every dining spot in the Square. Whether it's the ocean-fresh salmon salad at Bella Sera or an Asian-flavored bowl of Thai curry soup at the recently opened Noodles & Company, there are plenty of healthy and hearty eating options in the Square. And no matter what you eat in the Square, you can always resolve to walk it off with a few laps around the terrazzo plaza!

A Year to Remember

Okay, you have to excuse us if we want to hold on to 2011 for a little bit longer. After all, this past year marks the first full 12 months of the wonderfully transformed Market Square and it's new, inviting open piazza makeover.  And what an amazing 365 days it's been. From the opening of new restaurants and businesses to another electrifying, two-day Light Up Night to open a spectacular holiday shopping season, the Square really is at the heart of Downtown's newest renaissance. So as the final moments of 2011's 525,600 minutes tick away, let's take a look at just a few of the Square's more memorable happenings of the year.

The fun kicked off early in the year when more than 1,300 Black & Gold faithful huddled in the Square for the DIGIORNO'S "Go Pittsburgh" High Five Challenge. This early February competition pitted Pittsburgh fans against their cheesehead counterparts in Green Bay in a show of support for their favorite football teams before the big game. Though the Steelers came up short on the gridiron, their fans nabbed the pep rally championship during this showdown.

Just to prove that we are plenty willing to put our stomachs where our mouths are, hundreds of red-hots lovers turned out in late June for the local finals of the Nathan's Famous Fourth of July International Hot Dog Eating Contest. As the competition chomped through scores of dogs, a pair of wiener winners emerged to represent the region in the grand finale at New York City's Coney Island on Independence Day. Juliet Lee, our local winner got second place in the finals with 29.5 dogs, beaten only by Sonya "the Black Widow" Thomas.

Most days, business casual is the typical fashion statement in the Square. But when a bevy of local models dressed to the nines and strutted their stuff on the catwalk during Pittsburgh Fashion Week's runway romp, the Square earned the title of Style Central. As the  hundreds of people who watched the tented show in the center of the Square will attest,  Pittsburgh Fashion Week — in just its second year — established itself as one of the premier events on the city's social and cultural calendar.

Speaking of stylish, Design Squared opened the doors on home decor trends as interior design professionals gathered in the Square for this primer on the latest trends in kitchen, bath and overall renovation and decorating. Sponsored by local businesses—including the Square's very own SPLASH! and PPG Paints—Design Squared offered free cooking demonstrations from the chefs at NOLA and continuing education credit courses for aspiring and working design pros. Not to mention the live music and gorgeous design items that could be installed in your very own home.

Normally, the Square is a fairly lively place. But every year around Halloween thousands of the walking dead stumble into our favorite spot for a day of spine-chilling, blood-curdling fun during ZombieFest. With costumes and makeup that's just might scare to death the faint of heart, these unborn again creatures fill the Square as part of a daylong fright festival that also benefits the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank.

With something happening nearly every day in the Square, we just have to mention these favorites such as the Farmers Market, the Carnegie Library's Tuesday Reading Room, Bike to Work breakfasts, the Salvation Army's Most Amazing Race, flash mobs of all sorts, YMCA exercise programs, the Vintage Grand Prix auto show, free concerts sponsored by the Market Square Merchants Association, scavenger hunts and much, much more. In fact, the nearly 50 officially permitted events scheduled during 2011 in the Square are almost twice the amount of permitted events that took place there in 2008— the last full year before the makeover. With 2012 adding an extra day to the calendar, we're not taking a great leap in saying that we'll find 527,040 ways to measure life in the Square next year.

By the way, if you're still looking for that perfect place to bid farewell to 2011, you can check out the options in the Square by clicking here.

Last Minute Gift Shopping on the Square

Okay, maybe you were thinking about a trip to the mall or big box store to finish off your last-minute holiday shopping. But if you're already Downtown, why not head to Market Square?  After all, within just a few minutes' walk from the center of the Square, you'll find everything from the finest men's and women's fashions to the funkiest Black and Gold accessories for the Steelers upcoming playoff run. And if you're a little short on ideas on what to get that special loved one or person who signs your paycheck, just bookmark this handy shopping guide to one of the city's fastest-growing shopping destinations.

Whether you want to dress a special someone for success or outfit them in a more casual style, you'll find plenty to choose from in and near the Square. At its new Fifth Avenue location, Larrimor's continues a 70-year tradition of specializing in quality men's and women's clothing with designer names such as Hickey Freeman, Hugo Boss and Fabrizio Gianni. For a total head to toe ensemble, Larrimor's carries jewelry, shoes, belts, ties and more.

Also new to Fifth Ave., is JoS. A. Banks, where quality clothing comes at affordable prices. With plenty of knowledgeable and ready-to-help staff on hand, JoS. A. Banks is the one-stop shop for the gentlemen looking for a GQ look on a less than Manhattan-priced budget. Located across the street from the new PNC Bank branch office, JoS. A. Banks is part of what is fast becoming Fashion Row for Downtown men.

Just a few steps closer to the Square, Heinz Healy's men's shop is where you'll find a selection of clothing that covers all the bases from Tommy Bahama leisure wear to black-tie formal tuxes. Check out the choice of hats, slacks, shirts and more in this lovingly restored historic store on the corner of Fifth Avenue and Market Street.

Around the corner from Heinz Healy's, you can help that special guy in your life put his best foot forward in a pair of shoes from the Nettleton Shop. A Pittsburgh institution more than 80 years, the Nettleton shop carries quality footwear for men, along with belts, brief cases, wallets and other fine, high-quality leather goods. After a visit to the Nettleton Shop, just about any gent can step out on Pittsburgh's streets in style.

Okay, we've haven't forgotten the ladies. If you cut across the Square towards the gleaming towers of the PPG Plaza, you'll happen to discover Serendipity. A must-stop destination near the Square for more than six years, Serendipity is indeed the place where local fashionistas go to find accessories to express themselves. With the newest, hand-picked handbags, hats and seasonal wear from New York, LA and Paris, Serendipity is one lucky find.

Let's cross the Square again towards Fifth Avenue, with a quick stop in at WEAR on Market Square, one of the smallest shops in city. Tiny though  it may be, WEAR is packed with sunglasses, jeans and other goods loaded with attitude. A big seller this season are the designer Steelers offense and defense wristbands. So whether you're a fan or Troy or Big Ben, you can wear your true colors in style.

And for even more options, check out the shops in Fifth Avenue Place. With a stellar lineup of jewelry, men's and women's clothing, silver and more, Fifth Avenue Place creates  a sophisticated and convenient atmosphere for those who prefer an indoor shopping experience right in the heart of Downtown Pittsburgh.

Before we send you on your merry way, keep in mind all those people who make living, working, dining and shopping Downtown a pleasant experience year-round.
Whether it's your stylists, the parking garage attendant, a favorite co-worker or even your favorite waitperson, a gift certificate to one of the many dining spots in the Square is a great way to show you care. For an extra special touch, a bag of fresh roast coffee or European tea biscuits is especially appreciated.

Here's hoping that you have the very best of holidays this year — once you finishing your shopping.

Ring in 2012 in the Square!

When it comes to First Night, our first thought is "What's going on in Market Square on New Year's Eve?" You see, while tens of thousands of revelers ring out 2011 during Downtown's annual year-ending street party, there plenty of space where you can reflect on the past 365 days with family and friends in the cozy comfort of one of the Square's many dining hot spots that are offering special party packages of food, beverages and entertainment. With choices from fine Italian and homestyle Mexican to nouveau Creole accented cuisine and good old American burgers, here's a quick look at what's on the menu for the final countdown to 2012.


You can say "Ciao!" to 2011 at Bella Sera with three seating times for a special five-course, year-ending sendoff with starters like a caviar crepe or roasted corn and grilled shrimp chowder, entrees featuring delicacies from the land, air and sea, and tasty desserts that will have you singing "Auld Lang Syne" to your diet just before you resolve to start a new one on January 1, 2012. Seating times are at 5:30, 7:30 and 9:30 p.m., which means you'll have plenty of time to enjoy the festivities all over Downtown. To save seating for any number from two to eight people, call Bella Sera at 412-281-6363.


Of course, the good times will roll at NOLA, where the tastes, sounds and joie de vivre of The Big Easy put the Crescent City of New Orleans on the Market Square map. To usher in 2012, diners can feast on a choice of three- or five-course meals on a prix fixe menu — including a Champagne toast — or four-course a la carte selection that covers all the bases from appetizers to desserts. And for a feast for your ears, the John Gresh Gris Gris Band will serve up a hefty dose of New Orleans-infused blues and rock tunes. For reservations, call 412-471-9100.


Things will get hot, hot, hot at Las Velas as the Square's Mexican cantina provides diners with a bird's eye view of the outdoor fun and a double dose of fun that starts with a special New Year's dinner that features ahi tuna and a spicy surf and turf that features shrimp and steak cooked in tequila. Then, the party really gets started with a Latin dance party emceed by one of New York City's top DJs.  Whether you choose the dinner, the party or both, call 412-251-0031 for reservations.


For a taste of Italia, La Cucina Flegrea promises to serve a traditional multi-course feast of meats, cheeses and seafood from its spacious Graeme Street loft accommodations. Fans of owner Anna Fevola, who recently became a Downtown resident, will attest to the authentic touch she adds to every dish. Save a space at the table by calling 412-521-2082.


Around the Square, just about every eatery will be open beyond normal hours for the First Night Bash, including Primanti's, Moe's, Winghart's, the Diamond Market Bar & Grill, the Oyster House and many others. Even if all you want is a snack, you can grab a large beverage at Dunkin Donuts and get a free donut (before those resolutions kick in!).  So whether you're looking for a leisurely sit-down celebration to cap off the old year or a less formal bite to eat between First Night happenings, there's something on the menu for everyone in the Square.