Tap Into the City's Pop-Up Beer Gardens

Where will the next epic outdoor party pop up?

BY PM STAFF

Photo courtesy of Bar Marco

POP-UP BEER GARDENS GIVE 'BURGHERS BREWS, TUNES & MORE
There's nothing quite like a summertime party with friends. Sipping brews and cocktails while enjoying good eats (and chats) are definitely the highlights. Wouldn't it be great to chill outdoors with some of the coolest people you know at more frequent parties — say, once a month? And maybe you could skip the whole cleaning-up thing? Totally possible.

"Tapped. Pop Up Beer Gardens" took the Steel City by storm with the inaugural event held June 23 in the Strip District. Created in partnership with Bar Marco (where the original garden was set up) and Epic Developments, the day-long "Tapped." gatherings offer 'Burghers the perfect opportunity to unwind — tunes, grub, beer and lots of locals are all present.

Bummed that you've been missing out? Good news: Plans are coming together for another event, set to once again take place near Bar Marco. Stay in the loop by checking out updates posted on the "Tapped." Facebook page. Cheers!

(Tapped. Pop Up Beer Gardens; facebook.com/tappedpgh)
—PM Associate Editor Kristina Martin

STEEL CACTUS TO SERVE REAL-DEAL MEXICAN FARE
Keeping with this year's taco-lovin' frenzy, another Mexican eatery's opening up in Pittsburgh. This time, it's brought to us by the team behind such local establishments as Local Bar + Kitchen and Diesel Club Lounge.

Steel Cactus Mexican Restaurant & Cantina, expected to open sometime next month, will serve homemade tacos (go figure) and burritos, as well as other awesome dishes. The eatery will offer lunch and dinner services to folks visiting its second-floor space — or rooftop deck with island bar. If you're looking for a place to have a fun get-together outdoors, head to Steel Cactus next month and soak up Shadyside under the summer sun (and while you're at it, have a margarita).

(Steel Cactus, 5505 Walnut St., Shadyside; 412/303-2207, steelcactuspgh.com)
—K.M.

"WE'RE NOT NUTZ" OFFERS SWEET TREATS
Kathie Williamson was tired of reading every label. Her son Colin was born with a severe nut allergy, and she wanted to make safe treats for him without worrying about the ingredients' origins. Eventually, she created a business with the same ideal: We're Not Nutz.

The chocolatey treats, made by the Williamson family in Cranberry Township, are all peanut and tree-nut allergen-free, and have become a big hit. The goodies, including best-sellers like chocolate-covered Oreos and s'mores, are now available at Giant Eagle Market District stores.

But the up-and-coming stars are definitely the chocolate-covered coffee beans, a unique nut-free offering that has garnered rave reviews and is also available at Market District.

And Kathie hasn't forgotten about her original mission: A portion of the profits support awareness for food allergies. Safe and delicious — sounds like a sweet goal to us.

(We're Not Nutz; 888/966-6889, were-not-nutz.com)
—PM Editorial Intern James Santelli