Pens vs. Canadiens in Home Opener; Grit & Grace Features American-Asian Fusion Fare (Tues., 10/13/15)

1) With the Pirates bitter wildcard loss still in our collective memory, thankfully we are now able  to turn our thoughts and hopes to the Penguins as they play their home opener tonight against the Montreal Canadiens. Let’s go Pens! 7 p.m. Consol Energy Center, 1001 Fifth Ave., Uptown.

2) Grit & Grace is all about opposites, hence their name and their American-Asian fusion cuisine. Newly opened last year, the restaurant has become a downtown favorite. They are especially known for their American dim sum; the dim sum even has its own menu. The way it works is customers can choose how much (or little) they want of any particular item off of the dim sum cart. Popular items include the pork belly bites with an orange chili glaze and the roasted eggplant. The lunch and dinner menus include soups, salads, noodles and other entrées. Patrons have also praised Grit & Grace’s dark wood decor, communal bar, and Sunday brunch. 535 Liberty Ave., Downtown. (CM)

3) Few bars boast a volcanic interior, but Lava Lounge naturally does. Booths nestled among faux-rock formations beneath red lighting create an atmosphere both warm and private. Forget hole in the wall. A hole in the floor also provides subterranean seating for imbibing spelunkers. The cavernous decor and the house cocktails make this watering hole a favorite along the East Carson drag. There is a dance floor, too, and each day features a different theme, from ‘80s nights to live music. Taco Tuesdays are a popular night for one great reason: 85 cent tacos, both meat and veggie, from 5 p.m. to midnight. This night also sees $4 margaritas from 4 p.m. to midnight, plus their usual weekday happy hour from 5 to 7 p.m. The friendly staff, anything but volcanic, awaits your order. 2204 E. Carson St., South Side. (CM)

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