I hate to write a bad review, but her it goes. I have been a fan of the Sharp Edge since the mid 1980s when my friend Scott and I went almost weekly for about 5 years and enjoyed tasting what was at that time the only wide ranging beer taps in Pittsburgh.
In the past year I have had bad experiences at three different Sharpe Edge locations. In this review I will only discuss the extremely embarrassing situation at the Brasserie.
I have been a regular at this location since it opened, coming here almost weekly to check out the new taps, being a bit of a beer snob. I had become familiar with the managers and this day I think it was Chris who was working the bar.
I had sampled several beers and bought one. A division director from the company where I worked had stopped by join me ...his first visit to the Brasserie. I immediately bought him one of the beers I was drinking. Once we finished those beers my co-worker asked to try several samples. Upon asking for the second sample the Manager, Chris said "I just can't keep pouring you samples".
Now understand that until this particular day and time this bar had always graciously provided 1/2 to one ounce samples any time anyone would ask....for the over 20 years I have been going to this chain of establishments. I questioned him about this and he became increasingly rude in his responses. He stuttered on about the cost of beer and that 'ownership" has been working to change this policy. I felt completely embarrassed for myself and my co-worker. I asked for my check and left. I vowed NEVER to come back another Sharp Edge establishment. I broke that once to meet some fronds and my wife at the Creekhouse location earlier this year. That is another horrifying tale.
Let me just say this. I understand if there was a change in policy. It would have been appropriate of this MANAGER to politely let me know of the change. I do think this policy change is foolhardy. I will give my business to their competition who will give me samples(BOCKTOWN BEER in ROBINSON) , and now there are several new beer emporiums that have better food, tap selection and staff that DO provide free samples.
A quick note on their food. I have never been a fan of their food except for the white pizza. In recent years they have industrialized their food, pre-making it in a central kitchen. It is substandard even by basic bar food standards and it is EXTREMELY overpriced.
Sorry Sharp Edge, no more second (third) chances.
Check my review out of the Sharp Edge Creekhouse to learn about that debacle. Horrible service and server, sub par food and another clueless manager.