Cocktail Bar
Unclaimed profileCarmella's Plates & Pints
Pittsburgh, PA · $$
Inebrious
Beverage Program Score
The editorial take
Carmella's Plates & Pints is a cocktail bar with a serious spirits program. The cocktail list leans on house infusions—pineapple vodka, cucumber-lime gin, charred pineapple rum—plus creative takes like the Bartender's Choice Old Fashioned. Whiskey dominates the back bar, with 180 Scotches and a Whiskey Wall of Fame. Wines on tap and a few mocktails round out the program. Regular tastings and happy hour specials add structure.
- What should I order?
- Start with the Bartender's Choice Old Fashioned, which swaps in grapefruit and raspberry for a citrusy twist. The Japanese Whiskey Cocktail, with honey, ginger, and cinnamon, is another standout. For spirits, try the Bardstown Origin Series Bottled in Bond bourbon or a pour from the extensive Scotch selection.
- Who will enjoy this place?
- Whiskey enthusiasts will find a deep bench, from bourbon and rye to Japanese and world whiskies. Cocktail drinkers who appreciate house infusions and creative recipes will also be satisfied. The bar's low-lit, velvet-curtained atmosphere appeals to those seeking a cozy, characterful spot.
- What should I expect to spend?
- Cocktails are moderately priced, with infused lemonade cocktails at $12 for a 1.5 oz pour. Wine carafes run $48. Bourbon pours range from $8 to $499, with premium bottles like WhistlePig Boss Hog V at $175.
- What makes the beverage program distinctive?
- The Whiskey Wall of Fame, 180 Scotches in a wooden book, and regular tasting events set this bar apart. House-infused spirits—banana, blueberry, peach, and baked pumpkin bourbons—add a playful, craft-driven edge. The bar's velvet curtains and stacked bar create a distinctive atmosphere.
Beverage categories
We only score what a venue sets out to do. Categories a venue doesn't attempt are left unscored rather than penalized.
Cocktails
Creative cocktail list with house-infused spirits like pineapple vodka and charred pineapple rum. Signature drinks include the Bartender's Choice Old Fashioned and Whiskey Sour.
Menu strengths
- — Extensive craft cocktail menu with unique infusions; Happy hour specials available weekdays
Standout selections
- — Bartender's Choice Old Fashioned: Old Overholt Bottled in Bond, grapefruit, raspberry syrup
- — Japanese Whiskey Cocktail: honey, ginger, lemon, cinnamon
Pricing: Infused lemonade cocktails priced at $12.00 for 1.5 oz pour.
Wine
Diverse wine list with on-tap options and bottled selections from regions like Mosel, Paso Robles, and Napa Valley. Includes organic and international labels. Carafe format encourages sharing.
Menu strengths
- — Wines on tap offer carafe format for sharing
Standout selections
- — Isla Rose: French rosé on tap, carafe $48
- — 2024 Urban Riesling: Mosel, Germany, $12 per bottle
Pricing: Wines on tap carafes priced at $48; 2024 Urban Riesling at $12 per bottle.
Nonalcoholic
Limited but functional non-alcoholic options: a Nojito mocktail, French press coffee, and tea. Espresso available. Adequate for designated drivers or those abstaining.
Standout selections
- — Nojito: virgin mojito with grenadine and lemon-lime soda
- — French Press Coffee: medium roast with cherry and chocolate notes
Pricing: Double shot espresso priced at $6.00.
Spirits
Exceptional whiskey program with rare and allocated bottles, plus a broad global selection. Regular tastings and promotions like Passport Thursdays enhance the experience. Tequila and mezcal also well represented.
Menu strengths
- — Exceptional whiskey selection with rare and allocated bottles
- — Regular tasting events and promotions; Diverse global spirits collection
Standout selections
- — WhistlePig Boss Hog V: rye whiskey, $175
- — Bardstown Origin Series Bottled in Bond: bourbon, $15
- — Yamazaki 12-Year Single Malt: Japanese whisky
Pricing: Bourbon prices range from $8 to $499; WhistlePig Boss Hog V at $175.
How it sits with the food
The bar's cocktail and spirits program pairs well with the food menu's likely offerings, though specific pairings are not documented. The Japanese Whiskey Cocktail's honey and ginger could complement savory dishes, while the charred pineapple rum suits grilled meats. Wines on tap offer easy pairing flexibility.
Inebrious does not score kitchens, food or the restaurant overall. We review the beverage program only.
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