Pittsburgh: Red Star Tavern

Red Star Tavern serves American comfort food smack dab in the middle of Pittsburgh's South Shore (at Station Square in Bessemer Court). Put the suit away when heading to Red Star Tavern — dress is casual, as are the vibes. A mid-priced establishment, Red Star Tavern offers an updated version of the classic '40s American tavern. At Red Star, you can sip a martini, impress a date, people-watch, indulge in upscale comfort food--whatever suits your fancy--into late hours with a spectacular view. U-shaped leather booths, cushy chairs by a roaring hearth, and a bar with stools aplenty are made emphatically old-fashioned by a stone wall and dark mahogany surroundings.