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| - I'm told that E. Carson St. in the South Side of Pittsburgh has one of the highest concentrations of bars per block in the country, and I can definitely believe it. But while E. Carson St. itself is home to a plethora of sports-, beer-, and dive-bars as well as any combination thereof, which attract locals and tourist alike, the South Side side streets (try saying that 5 times fast...especially if you have the slightest of lisps - like me :) ) contain more than their share of hidden gems.
One such bar is Jekyl & Hyde. From the decor to the beer selection, this establishment could not be more faithful to its terrifically terrifying theme.
The exterior is that of a haunted castle, complete with a [presumably] empty suit of armor guarding the front gate/door. Once inside, you're assaulted by skeletal remains, ghoulish rubber heads, and spiderwebs on all sides. But in a good way (especially if you're an avid Horror movie fan).
A chalkboard lists upcoming events such as karaoke nights, live music (some of which I was fortunate enough to witness and was extremely impressed by), and free pool night. The bar and tables are lined with flyers listing appropriately named specialty mixed drinks. They also have an excellent beer selection, due largely to microbrewers' penchants for scary names for beers and J&H's proclivity to stock such beers.
The night that I came (largely due to my Welsh bladder and the need to use their restroom) their bartender was attentive, fun, and easygoing. The music, both live and from the jukebox, was entertaining, but what really set this bar apart from any bar I've been to - was its faithful following of its frightful theme.
Staring around me at the assortment of people around me, my lungs slightly sore from belting out to Rock Band, my eyes itching from my brother's cigarette smoke, and my hands cold from my bottomless mug of water (which the bartender was on point at continuing to refill) - I couldn't help but sigh in perfect contentment.
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