Sharp Edge Beer Emporium

October 6, 2008
I am really torn about this place, and as I move to Pittsburgh look for me to frequent the establishment and hopefully re-rate. We were there on a sunday afternoon, and it was fairly empty. Selection is absolutely wonderful, but little that is completely unseen. I am fairly new to the Pennsylvania beer scene, but the prices seemed a bit painful compared to what I am used to in Virginia, but there were some other affordable but tasty options available as well. We only got appetizers, and they left something to be desired. I’m pretty sure the guacamole was from a powdered or frozen mix and the croquettes, while tasty, were a bit pricey as well. All of these things said, I can’t wait to go back!

September 28, 2008 [ Updated October 4, 2008 ]
Been here a handful of times, left inebriated each time. Old arcade games dot the dimly lit arena of booths amidst ample wood. I’ve always had friendly service that’s willing to recommend. A lot of taps, 20+ Belgians, but none of the taps are super high-end and most can be found as bottles at D’s. Lots of nice bottles, both foreign and domestic, including some rarities like Weyerbacher Riserva, but these are even pricier. I’ve eaten their pita and dip (all varieties are good, including the beer+chedder one), and I always get the buffalo bites as they’re great (ask for the blue cheese with hot, they will do it). The main drawback here is the price, so go for happy hour and get 1/2 off Belgian drafts plus $0.40 bites. I’ve dropped at least $20 every time I’ve gone, but it’s hard to say no when you’re drinking oud bruins for less than $4. Nice place, but don’t expect Belgian Heaven despite the prices: I didn’t catch one Struise, Rochefort, or De Dolle beer last time I was there. But don’t be mistaken: this is one of my favorite places to drink in Pgh, a definite stop for anyone wanting to get our best.

May 13, 2008
This place is awesome and awful at the same time (I went here about once a week from 2005-2007). Service can be the best or mediocre. Some of the staff is among the best/friendliest I’ve encountered...others not so much. Beers selection is pretty impressive as far as tapped belgians go...but don’t expect many of them to knock you socks off...also the pricing is a bit harsh. Go during the week day happy hour to get half off belgian drafts. Food is also hit or miss...if you splurge it is pretty great, but a little over priced. I am going to over rate this because of nostalgia, but it truly is a great beer bar...compared to many that rank higher on this list.

April 2, 2008
Finally visited the original. Nice atmosphere, just a little sterile. Waitress was somewhat knowledgeable but very helpful and very quick. Food was good (I always get the Buffalo Bites). Just wish it was a little cheaper. Ended up paying about $50 for an apetizer and 4 beers. Not the Creekhouse, but good.

January 4, 2008
best belgian beer bar in the pittsburgh area, and rather easily. huge tap selection and an impressive bottle selection (which might be more or less impressive if they kept their available-at-the-bar lists updated). sometimes takes a while to get a beer when there are more than three people at the bar, but the staff generally knows their stuff. decent food, and they recently went no smoking (great for an ex-smoker and avowed beer snob). as with most pittsburgh bars, a bit on the pricey side, but definitely worth a stop.

November 4, 2007
This place has become the only bar I frequent for beer consumption. The staff is friendly (at times swamped). The crowd is usually an interesting mix. Smoking is banned and I like that. The beers... ah. There’s nothing else to say. If you appreicate fine beer, there is nowhere else in Pittsburgh that challenges SharpEdge. The food is also excellent.

October 13, 2007
From notes 9/2006. On my last trip to Pittsburgh, about 4 months ago, I was taken here because some people I knew discovered how much I loved beer. They have a very intense selection of beer that seems to lean towards the foreign side. Proper glassware, big selection. I think the only improvement I’d say that could be made is the service. Being in the industry, I know when it’s mediocre, bad, and good. Regardless of all that, it’s all about the beer, right? And this place has a LOT of it. For a person with a true appreciation, it’s a good stop to make.

October 11, 2007 [ Updated July 22, 2008 ]
Pretty friendly looking from the outside with plenty of parking. A little difficult to find. off the side of a Baum Blvd. Not quite as new or pristine sas the other Sharp Edge establishments I’ve been to. I spoiled, the other places are high class and brand new. I guess this is the granddad of those two. Older and well used interior. Barkeeps were very knowledgeable and quite patient with my beer questions. Wow, what a selection of brews. All kinds of proper glassware. Overall, not bad. Stopped in around lunchtime on a weekday, not crowded. Didn’t have food this time.

May 14, 2007
GREAT SPOT!! Best in Pittsburgh for sure. Belgium brew house with a nice beer list and great staff. They have great specials and an everchanging tap list. Could use a touch more atmosphere, but the staff’s great and its bar food - whattdya want??

April 22, 2007
great belgian selection... somewhat pricey, but happy hour half price belgian drafts are nice... also features half-price appetizer menu after 10pm.