Local Bake Shop Offers Many Ways to Enjoy Gingerbread

Plus, the pair behind Alla Famiglia opens new eatery and Morton's creates a new holiday drink.

BY PM STAFF

Local bake shop offers many ways to enjoy gingerbread
No holiday season is complete without creating a gingerbread house. As a child, Eat Street was always a fan, squirting icing all over the panels before adjoining them, and crowning the house with several handfuls of gumdrops. Each one was obviously a masterpiece.

It seems silly, though, to enjoy the treats just one month per year. That's why the fine folks at The Gingerbread Shop have stepped in, ensuring that all your special occasions, Christmas or otherwise, are a lot sweeter. While they accept custom orders (unfortunately no more for Christmas), they're also willing to send kits to home cooks who are looking to impress guests.

On top of that, they offer several workshops, where guests can adorn gingerbread men with candy and assemble the homes using royal icing. There are two classes taking place tomorrow afternoon, so be sure to reserve a spot if you're interested. The experience should be memorable: making gingerbread creations, laughing with friends and sipping punch. What more could you want?

(Gingerbread Shop, 5819 Forward Ave., Squirrel Hill. Info: 412/425-6177, thegingerbreadshop.net)
—Kristina Martin, PM Associate Editor

Pair behind Alla Famiglia opens new eatery
Jonathan and Brandy Vlasic, owners of Allentown mainstay Alla Famiglia, have branched out to the South Hills with their latest venture. Arlecchino Ristorante, an Italian restaurant housed in a remodeled schoolhouse, offers homemade (and handmade) foods, like pasta and breads. Diners can expect to see favorites like meatballs and soups included on the menu. What’s more, the eatery has expanded hours: In addition to offering the expected lunch and dinner services, early birds can also swing by after Arlecchino opens at 6 a.m. to pick up pastries and more.

(Arlecchino Ristorante, 133 Camp Lane, Peters Township. Info: 724/260-5414, arlecchinopgh.com)
—Kate Chynoweth, PM Food Editor

Morton's The Steakhouse creates special holiday drink
During the holiday season, everyone seems to be in a better mood—and it makes perfect sense: Christmas tunes play nonstop, there's no shortage of gatherings to attend and homemade sweets abound. Capitalizing on the holiday cheer, Morton's has added a new cocktail to its list.

After a long day of (last-minute) holiday shopping, head over to Morton's for a festive Sparkling Cinnamon Apple, featuring Lunetta Prosecco, Lindemans Pomme Lambic and Monin honey syrup. It's so bubbly and enjoyable that your only gripe will be that it's offered for a limited time.

(Morton's The Steakhouse, 625 Liberty Ave., downtown. Closed Dec. 25. Info: 412/261-7141, mortons.com)
—K.M.

Eat Street's taking the next two weeks off (and will likely consume countless decadent desserts during that time). We appreciate you reading and look forward to sharing food news with you in 2012!