🍕 Pgh pizza better than NYC?!

Court Says PA Can’t Throw Out Mail Ballots

A federal appeals court ruled that it’s unconstitutional for PA to discard a mail-in ballot because of an inaccurate date on the return envelope, upholding a federal judge’s decision earlier this year. [Associated Press]

US Steel To Salvage Clairton Batteries

Clairton Coke Works began the process of bringing two of its coke batteries back online following explosions at the site on Aug. 11, which killed two workers and injured 10 others. The rest of the batteries have remained in operation. [WESA / 🎧 City Cast Pittsburgh]

• The Trump admin wants to shut down the independent agency investigating the explosion. [Politico]
• Steelworkers recently rallied Downtown to call for better worker safety and sound the alarm on proposed funding cuts to OSHA. [Allegheny Front]

Pittsburgh’s Installing Red Light Cameras

City Council approved legislation to move forward with red light enforcement cameras, which will snap photos of vehicles running red lights and automatically issue warnings and fines. Officials haven't yet decided the camera locations. [KDKA]

• Know these essential rules for driving in Pittsburgh. [🎧 City Cast Pittsburgh]

Market Square Renovation is On Track

Updates and new features, like a pavilion and curbless streetscape, are expected to be completed by April 2026 in time for the NFL Draft. Get a first look at the work in progress. [🔒 Pittsburgh Business Times]

• Check out renovations planned for these local museums and attractions. [📝 Hey Pittsburgh]
• Downtown office vacancy is still high, but efforts are underway to turn some buildings into housing. [🎧 City Cast Pittsburgh]

We love to update yinz about the yummiest new places to grab a bite or bev in the Burgh! Check out what caught our eye this week 🤤

🥃 The Distillery Complex Debuts With Stunning Views

Big Springs Spirits’ new six-story complex on the South Side has a rooftop bar with arguably the best view in the city. The Finch, named after the building’s original owner, offers small plates, signature cocktails, and panoramic vistas overlooking the Monongahela River.

• The complex also includes a huge dining and event space, a snazzy cigar bar, and room for possibility — future ideas include a music venue, tasting room, education space, and a food hall.
• Learn about Western Pennsylvania’s liquor legacy on these distillery tours.

🍽️ Table Set for New Sunday Supper Series

Comfort & Spice, which makes “international bar food,” is hosting a new Sunday dinner series at Hazelwood Brew House starting Sept. 7. Look forward to the first menu: summer salad, curry chicken with sauce, potatoes, house-made naan, and panna cotta.

🍔 Smash Shack Satisfies North Side Cravings

The folks behind Fig & Ash in East Allegheny are now slinging burgers on E. Ohio Street, just a skip from their popular sit-down spot for seasonal dishes and craft cocktails. Get a classic smash burger with caramelized onions and “Shack Sauce” or a “Yinzer Cowboy” loaded with BBQ pulled pork.

• We’re talking about even more smash burger places on today’s City Cast Pittsburgh podcast.

🎉 412 Food Rescue Celebrates 10 Years

The local org that saves surplus food and delivers it to people in need is celebrating a decade of work at Rooted, Sept. 13 in Rockwell Park. The event will feature 10 “rescued” dishes by some of the best chefs in town, from restaurants like Lilith, Butterjoint, EYV, Hey Babe!, Morcilla, and Solera Wine.

🍅 Garfield Farm To Host Fundraiser Dinner

Celebrate the work of Garfield Community Farm on Sept. 12 with an evening of local appetizers, drinks, and art at a gorgeous riverside venue. Proceeds from the dinner will go toward more educational opportunities for youth and partnerships with local artists, activists, cooks, and growers.