Cocktail Bar
Unclaimed profileThe Forge
Pittsburgh, PA · $$
Inebrious
Beverage Program Score
The editorial take
The Forge's cocktail program is the draw: a seasonal list of 14 signatures built on house-infused spirits like beet vodka and za'atar gin, priced $13-$16. A bartender's choice option earns guest praise for personalization. The wine list spans regions with fair glass prices, while the beer and zero-proof programs round out a versatile drinks menu.
- What should I order?
- Start with the bartender's choice for a personalized creation. For a signature, the Carmella Colada pairs orange cinnamon black tea rum with banana and coconut cream, or the Tomato, Tomato uses za'atar-infused gin and salted tomato water.
- Who will enjoy this place?
- Cocktail enthusiasts seeking creative, seasonal drinks and personalized service will find much to like. The zero-proof mocktails and approachable beer list also suit mixed groups or those looking for lighter options.
- When should I go?
- Evenings are ideal for exploring the cocktail menu, especially when the seasonal list rotates. The bartender's choice is a good option any night for a tailored experience.
- What should I expect to spend?
- Cocktails run $13-$16, with most at $14; the bartender's choice is $16. Wine glasses $12-$15, bottles $48-$60, and drafts mostly $8. Mocktails are $9-$10, non-alcoholic beers $8.
- What makes the beverage program distinctive?
- The Forge stands out for its house-infused spirits and creative flavor combinations, such as beet-infused vodka with elderflower and lavender, and za'atar-infused gin with tomato water. The bartender's choice, available for both cocktails and mocktails, adds a personalized touch praised by guests.
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
Seasonal menu of 14 signature cocktails featuring house-infused spirits and creative ingredients. Bartender's choice option is a guest favorite. Priced competitively for the creativity.
Menu strengths
- — House-infused spirits like beet vodka and za'atar gin show craft and originality.
Standout selections
- — Carmella Colada: orange cinnamon black tea rum, Cointreau, banana, coconut cream, house-made whip cream.
- — Tomato, Tomato: za'atar-infused gin, salted tomato water, dry vermouth, za'atar oil.
Pricing: Cocktails $13-$16, with most at $14; bartender's choice $16.
Wine
Diverse wine list with red, white, and sparkling options from Slovenia, Italy, France, Argentina, and New Zealand. Includes premium champagne like Veuve Clicquot.
Menu strengths
- — Multiple regions represented, from Slovenia to New Zealand.
Standout selections
- — Veuve Clicquot Brut Rosé, Champagne, France.
- — Cabernet Sauvignon, Villa Brici, Slovenia 2020.
Pricing: Glasses $12-$15; bottles $48-$60; Veuve Clicquot $140-$150.
Beer
Seasonal draft list featuring local and regional breweries, including New France, Pennsylvania Brewing, and Arsenal. Affordable pricing with a couple of $6 options.
Menu strengths
- — Budget-friendly pricing, especially for Yuengling and IC Light.
Standout selections
- — New France Brewing Dying on the Vine: spiced pumpkin ale, 6.0%.
- — Arsenal Fighting Elleck: hard cider, 8.0%.
Pricing: Most drafts $8; Yuengling and Iron City $6.
Nonalcoholic
Dedicated zero proof section with four creative mocktails and three non-alcoholic beers. Includes a bartender's choice mocktail for personalized options.
Menu strengths
- — Creative mocktails with ingredients like cantaloupe, raspberry, and pink peppercorn.
Standout selections
- — Pool Party: cantaloupe, raspberry, pineapple, almond, fresh basil, soda.
- — Cosmic Sunset: strawberry, blackberry, pink peppercorn, pineapple, lemon, soda.
Pricing: Mocktails $9-$10; non-alcoholic beers $8.
Spirits
Extensive use of spirits in cocktails, including gin, vodka, rum, tequila, bourbon, and rye, with house-infused options. No standalone spirits list available.
Menu strengths
- — Wide range of spirits utilized creatively in cocktails.
- — House infusions add a unique twist to classic bases.
Standout selections
- — Beet-infused vodka in The Perfect Storm.
Pricing: No standalone pricing; spirits used in cocktails priced $13-$16.
How it sits with the food
The cocktail menu's savory and herbal notes, like the Tomato, Tomato with za'atar oil, could pair with Mediterranean dishes. The Carmella Colada's tropical profile might suit lighter fare, while the Long Rider's bitter Cynar and fruit could handle richer plates.
Inebrious does not score kitchens, food or the restaurant overall. We review the beverage program only.
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