Ed and Day in the ‘Burgh: Comedians, podcasters and craft beer enthusiasts Ed Bailey and Day Bracey explore hot spots, hidden gems and the best places to grab a cold brew in the ‘Burgh.
Meet the neighborhood: Southside
In this episode, Ed and Day note that Southside is currently experiencing a cultural evolution, so the fellas are exploring beyond the beer scene.
“There’s an art to it.” – The Pretzel Shop on Carson Street
Aaron Bowen and his family make running the Pretzel Shop a family affair as everyone from his mom to his cousin is involved in the business. Of course, the guys get a crash course in pretzel twisting and they each get by with a little help from their friend. (Screencap 2:02)
FOLLOW: @thepretzelshop
[Interested in learning more about The Pretzel Shop? Check out our story to learn more about how this business uses a 100-plus-year-old oven to make this salty snack.]
“Soul food is not just eating.” – Carmi Soul Food
Husband and wife team Michael and Carleen King combined their family recipes, and their names, and established Carmi, a relocated Northside treasure, now in South Side since 2018. While Carleen lays a feast before our favorite explorers, she explains how Carmi offers something different than the usual hustle and bustle customary in Southside.
The guys take a walk and reminisce between polling people on the street about what they love about Southside.
PGH Pro Tip: You can take in some of Pittsburgh’s beautiful scenery by walking over to Southside Riverfront Park & Trail and strolling along the Mon River.
“Passionate Pittsburgh Potters” – Fireborn Studios
Daniel Vito has run this gallery, shop and teaching space since 1980 with his wife Donna Hetrick. Daniele Vito has run it with his wife Donna Hetrick. They hand make everything, mostly on a potter’s wheel. The guys get in front of the pottery wheel and make dishes they can be proud of. (Screengrab 21:35).
FOLLOW: @firebornpottery
“Not your typical bar.” – Carson Street Deli
We reach the end of the day at Carson Street Deli, with its selection of 300 different beers with a hyper-local focus. Manager, Austin Vanasdale pairs their popular sandwich, The Beast, with
- Helltown Pilsner;
- Apis Mead Cranberry Clove;
- Gristhouse Sour IPA; and
- Gristhouse Fruited Sour.
FOLLOW: @carsonstdeli.craftbeerbar
PGH pro tip: During the United Soccer League season, follow Carson Street down toward the Point and stop at Highmark Stadium to support the Pittsburgh Riverhounds.
Lots more to explore in the Southside
You can watch Ed and Day visit all of these locations and learn more about this historic Pittsburgh neighborhood in the Southside episode of “Ed and Day in the ‘Burgh” on the Very Local channel.