A Night Out on the Town

Damon Daunno and Rebecca Naomi Jones in Pittsburgh Cultural Trust’s *Oklahoma!.* Photo by Little Fang.

Imagine: It’s a chilly night in Downtown Pittsburgh, but the city lights are sparkling in the winter breeze, brightening up the rivers with spots of starlight. The combination is downright cheery. You’re ushered into a warm, romantically lit restaurant and offered the refuge of a cushioned booth illuminated with candles. A filling, rich-with-flavor meal nourishes you as you set off to enjoy the main attraction of the night: Oklahoma!, the first musical written by the storied Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein team. Purchase tickets here.

This classic musical, reimagined on the Benedum Center stage, captures the heart today just as it has done for decades. “Oklahoma! is the quintessential and classic American musical. When the original production opened in 1943, it was a groundbreaking celebration of country and community. Soldiers returned from war and found escape and affirmation while in the audience of the first-ever modern American musical. Our production specifically is built around the idea of a community coming together in shared experience,” says Eva Price, producer. “Well, we've been through a hell of a shared experience in our country over the last 18 months, and we’re grateful for the opportunity to gather—safely—with audiences in theaters across America to appreciate this story anew.”

This production has a few surprises in store for you, making the classic tale fresh all over again. After you’ve hummed along and fallen in love with this 21st century Oklahoma!, you and your date decide to have a nightcap at one of the lively nightspots near the Benedum Center. A cut-through-the-winter-chill cocktail caps the evening as the musical score runs joyfully through your conversation. Maybe a dessert further sweetens the night.

Dinner, show, drinks. The familiar date-night pattern is so tempting again after the year-plus hiatus we’ve had from live performances. This winter, let Downtown Pittsburgh set the scene for evenings out. We’ll see you all out there.

The Perfect Night Out

Sandwich your date night or family outing between two of these spectacular Downtown eateries.

Dinner

The Commoner

Located inside the Kimpton Hotel Monaco and just a short walk from the Cultural District, hip gastropub The Commoner carries a menu of Modern American eats. The Commoner Burger is a must-try for any burger fiend, though their ever-changing menu of entrées caters to every palate.

täkō

In the heart of Downtown, täkō brings Mexican-Japanese fusion to the table. Their namesake octopus taco will have you singing songs of praise; their queso fundido, with a kick of heat from jalapeño, will be gone in seconds.

The Eagle

Fried chicken is the leading player at The Eagle, perfect for family-friendly eats. Go for their fried bird with an array of sides: the hush puppies and spoonbread are not to be missed!

Gaucho Parilla Argentina

Find authentic Argentinian barbecue at Gaucho, a beloved Pittsburgh eatery serving up meat, meat, and, well, more meat. Their steaks are a true delight, perfectly charred and tender. Order the mixta to try them all!

Drinks and Dessert

The Warren Bar & Burrow

Looking for a spot with a buzz to match your post-performance energy? Head to The Warren, a Downtown eatery known for its top-notch cocktails and bubbling atmosphere. Their classic menu item, Fred’s Old Fashioned, is the perfect way to end a night out. thewarrenpgh.com

Con Alma

Continue the show at Con Alma, Pittsburgh’s spot for jazz and cocktails. Catch a set from one of their local bands while sipping on an Old Cuban – rum, Prosecco, mint, and lime – or their house hot toddy. conalmapgh.com

Eleven

Cozy up with your date at Eleven, a spot on the edge of the Strip District that’s worth the walk. Snag a couch in their bar area, order a glass of wine, and nibble on one of their decadent desserts. Still hungry? Build a cheese plate for two. elevenck.com

Story by Maggie Weaver