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Hidden Harbor

Food & Drink - Neighborhood Bars April 15, 2024 606

Hidden Harbor in Squirrel Hill - An Eclectic Escape To The Tropics

April 15, 2024 (Updated: February 24, 2025)

Overall rating

4.6

Drinks

5.0

Atmosphere

5.0

Service

5.0

Pricing

4.0

Location

4.0

Stepping into Hidden Harbor in Pittsburgh's Squirrel Hill neighborhood, you're transported from the city's streets to a tropical oasis that feels both sophisticated and cool—two words I, Noodles, don't sling around lightly. The place pulses with a vibe that's as refreshing as the breeze off a Polynesian lagoon. It's here, amidst this lush backdrop, that I found myself sipping on a finely crafted local beer from Independent Brewing, chatting up a Ph.D. economics TA from the nearby University of Pittsburgh.

As the evening unfolded, I was struck by the unique mix of patrons. More folks were leafing through books at the bar than I'd ever seen back in most places I frequent—truly, a sign of Hidden Harbor's eclectic charm (and, perhaps, my lack thereof).

My new academic friend, munching on what he declared a 'great' burger, shared insights into the current economic zeitgeist. His explanation on how today's economic models focus heavily on 'present value'—essentially, the preference for immediate benefits over future gains—sparked a fascinating discussion on the challenges of promoting long-term investments in sustainability and other forward-thinking initiatives.

He also delved into the hot-button topic of minimum wage, noting the lack of clear evidence regarding its economic impacts. This was more than just bar talk; it was a mini-lecture, served up alongside tropical drinks that Hidden Harbor is famed for. These concoctions, by the way, are not just beverages; they're an experience, each with a flair that matches the bar's vivid setting.

Hidden Harbor isn't just a bar; it's a cultural junction where sophisticated vibes meet intellectual conversation, all wrapped up in an island-inspired package. It's a place that proves even landlocked locales can serve up a slice of the tropics, making it a must-visit for anyone in Pittsburgh looking for a night out that's anything but ordinary.