Matthew U.
Yelp
I'm in love with Mixtape. It is quite possibly the best bar in the Pittsburgh area. I know some people would disagree with me, but hear me out why this is the best bar in the Pittsburgh area.
First and foremost, the simple menu and pricing. What you see on the menu is what you get. That goes for what you order and the price of that item. No figuring out what tax is going to be, how much to tip, all that stuff. The price you see is what you pay. Why, you may ask. Because this establishment pays their employees a wage that does not depend on tipping. This establishment cares about it's employees. This establishment should be your destination spot when you want to support local.
Second, it is such a chill atmosphere, no need to be stressed when you can have a nice rest. It is a very laid back area to relax in. Seating of every variety in here (the only thing I could ding them on, not all seating is the most comfortable), some great music that you will catch yourself singing along to at some point, and the artwork is pretty killer.
Third, play a board/card game to take your mind off of whatever is troubling you. Need to distract yourself, pull one of many games from their shelves and dive in. Pull your whole group into the game and forget about life outside for a little bit.
Fourth, the employees. I loved the employees in here. They were so attentive. From the moment you walk in you are greeted at the door (they card everyone that walks in), placing your order at the bar or just sitting there you are constantly checked on. They are some of the best conversationalists in the city.
Fifth, the drinks. No matter what you might be looking for, whether it be coffee or something harder, they got you covered. If you go with the Mojito, add the berries. I will say that again, ADD THE BERRIES! Those berries are fresh and amazing and give that drink a nice taste. I also like watching them make the drinks. It's like a mini show, so intricate.
Sixty, the artwork. They really embraced the mixtape motif in here, and it is a bit like a time warp. All those cassettes on the wall reminds you of making a mixtape while hiding in your bedroom. Then the paintings on the wall transports you back to a time in pop culture where the songs were poppier and the music videos were actually played on MTV. If a painting on the wall catches your fancy, you may be able to purchase it. Come for a drink, leave with some artwork for your home.
I really shouldn't have to list anymore, I think you get the point.
Oh, yeah, one HUGE tip here. If you are sitting at one of the areas, use your menu effectively. If you come in off the street, pay attention to this. the one page on the menu is a seat saver. You read that right, it's like the Pittsburgh Chair for your table. If the table appears to be free, check the menu first. If this page is face up, don't steal somebody else's seat. That is Mixtape's PITTSBURGH CHAIR!