Mount Lebanon’s Saloon Continues to Please

Mt. Lebanon’s Saloon on Washington Road

The Entertainment Central Recon Patrol is stepping out of the city and into the suburbs to bring you the scoop on The Saloon, a Mt. Lebanon staple that has been serving the South Hills for over 30 years.  And while everyone in this self-proclaimed “Cheers-style” bar might not know your name, you certainly won’t have trouble striking up a conversation if you’re so inclined.

At first glance, you may get the feeling that this place hasn’t changed much since opening in 1976. Wood-paneled walls, stained-glass windows and mirrored beer signs really give it that “old-school” feel.  It’s the perfect environment for watching a Penguins, Pirates or Steelers game on any one of  15 flat-screen TVs that adorn the walls.  You won’t find flashing lights or a dance floor, just some dartboards and a jukebox full of classic rock…and lots of beer.

Pull up a stool at the bar for a first hand scan at the over 20 beers on tap, many of which change with the season. You’ll see all of the icons, tons of imports, and some local brews from the likes of the East End Brewing Co. (Pittsburgh) and Great Lakes Brewing Company (Cleveland).  If you can’t find a draft beer that suits you, there are 50 bottled labels.

The Saloon’s Wide Variety of Draft Beers.

When our bartender, Caroline, walked over with our complimentary basket of popcorn, we asked her for a recommendation. She pointed us towards The Saloon’s flagship beer, “Big Hop,” by East End Brewing Co.  It certainly lived up to its hoppy namesake, with a Munich- malt backbone, very tasty!  The super-friendly staff can also mix up your favorite cocktail.  We suggest something a little different–a Moscow Mule (vodka, lime, ginger beer)–served in a copper mug, which can be seen hanging above the bar (just make sure you return it, ‘cause those mugs are pricey).

The wide selection of drinks is a great compliment to the house’s extensive menu of bar favorites. The Saloon’s customers love the bar’s wings and burgers, but if you want to venture outside of the typical bar fare, give the portabella mushroom sandwich a try. That’s what this place is all about, a little something for everyone. Appetizers, French fries, salads, pizza, hoagies, hot and cold sandwiches are all well represented on The Saloon’s menu. On weekends, the kitchen is open until midnight, catering to those late night munchies.

We always knew that The Saloon was a great sports bar, but wait, there’s more. This place really gets going at night, and has a few more surprises. We took a little wander towards the back of the first floor bar area and noticed a sign touting their roof top seating area. Intrigued, we popped open the door, headed up a couple flights of stairs and were treated to a beautiful roof top deck overlooking Mt. Lebanon with another dozen tables and a second bar. The deck has a relaxed party atmosphere that seems to rub off on everyone.

The Saloon is a throwback to that neighborhood bar that everyone wants to be able to call their own. It’s got a classic feel, augmented with only the most necessary of modern technology, and a friendly crowd; all combined to make The Saloon a great place to connect or reconnect with people. Reasonable prices on food and drink, daily beer and food specials, and a very personable staff, are just a few more reasons to check it out…if you haven’t already. The Recon Patrol is pleased to report that there are signs of life in the suburbs!

…Entertainment Central Recon Patrol, Over and Out.

The Saloon
622 Washington Rd.
Pittsburgh, PA   15228
(412) 531-5666
www.thesaloonofmtlebanon.com

Hours:
Monday-Thursday:  4 p.m. – 2 p.m.
Friday:                     3 p.m. – 2 a.m.
Saturday & Sunday: Noon – 2 a.m.

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