A Group of Pitt Students Walks Into a Bar...
- Sadie Kaminsky
- Oct 31, 2018
- 2 min read

It’s a Thursday night. “Sicko Mode” blares through your bedroom speaker for an unprecedented eighth time in a row. That’s what the kids are listening to these days, yeah? Suddenly your phone “dings,” revealing a text from ya boy, Luke, that reads, “Thirsty Thursday… what’s the move?” As the responsible 21+ year olds you obviously are, it goes without saying that you’ll most likely end up hopping around to a bar or two to cheers the end of another daunting school week.
The vibrant city of Pittsburgh beckons students and long-term residents with its charitable display of bars and night clubs that bring the city to life. So, with so much the city has to offer, what is the move? Compiled below is a list of all the coolest spots and their hottest deals to use when planning your next wild night out (responsibly) exploring the 412 all while balling on a college student’s budget:
OAKLAND.
If you’re looking to stay within a walking distance from an apartment or dorm, the Oakland bar scene is the move for you.
Hemingway’s Café. Located on Forbes Ave, right next to Dunkin' Donuts, Hem’s is guaranteed to have something that’ll tickle your fancy. Best thing about this place? Two words: shot pitchers (sugary, pitcher-sized mixed drinks garnished with 2 or 3 gummy worms). Voted the “Best College Bar in Pittsburgh” by the Pittsburgh City Paper, Hem's will not disappoint during a night out with friends.
Writer's choice: "Mother of Dragons" shot pitcher
Gene’s Place. A treasured Oakland favorite, located on Louisa St., Gene's Place offers a cool hangout spot with deals you'll love every night of the week. Their slogan is literally "Drink more beer," which I know doesn't take much convincing for college students. Every day specials include $2.50 22oz of Old German, $5.50 pitchers of Old German, and $3.50 well drinks/shots. Follow their Twitter for all the updates, specials, and a good hearty laugh.
Writer's choice: Panther Bomb (made famous by Peter's Pub: may she rest in peace)
Garage Door Saloon. Most of you probably know this spot as G Door. Located on Atwood St., conveniently located right next to Pizza Romano, Sorrento's, and Antoon's, G Door is an undeniable Oakland hot spot. Surprisingly big on the inside, G Door houses a full bar, karaoke stage, and a darts and billiards room for maximum fun potential. Tuesday nights are especially poppin' because of karaoke night and a crowd favorite, $5 Bud Light pitchers.
Writer's choice: the almighty Pickle Shot (vodka mixed in pickle juice-- sounds gross, tastes surprisingly great)
Panther House. Located on Semple Street right next to Larry & Carol's Pizza, Panther House is a bumpin' new addition to the Oakland bar scene. Characterized by its massive dance floor, DJ spinnin' today's top hits, and colorful strobe lights, Panther House is the place to be if you're looking to dance and have a good time with your besties.
Writer's choice: $1 Panther Juice on Saturdays
Sounds like a fun time! I'd love to hear about your favorite venues outside of Oakland too!
So glad to see a detailed introduction of bars. I will go with friends LOL