A True Pittsburgh Classic
Nestled among skinny row homes in the Polish Hill neighborhood of Pittsburgh, Gooski's hardly shines as a beacon in the night. In fact, of the approximately 10+ times I've been there, I've accidentally passed it up at least seven. A light brick building with minimal signage lining its outside, the narrow bar is largely unremarkable in appearance.
Gooski’s [exterior] image via: http://pittsburgh.cbslocal.com, Interior bar image via: blogski.phcapgh.org
Assuming that your first time visiting Gooski's is later in the evening, you may be surprised to realize that somehow it's actually darker inside the bar than on the street outside. It's literally the darkest bar this patron has ever set foot in. Looking at the lights, it almost appears as if they're on, but are somehow just making the bar darker. However, thanks to the dim lighting, everyone in the bar and the bar itself become a little more aesthetically pleasing.
Aside from being the darkest bar ever, Gooski's has numerous redeeming qualities. The beers are cheap and surprisingly diverse in selection. The liquors are cheap too, but you're probably going to drink a beer as this isn't exactly a pomegranate mojito or a caribou lou kind of place. This is a place where you drink a Straub (which comes in big bottles for only $2.50). Across the board, every beer here is between $1.00 and $2.50 less expensive than almost any other location you'd normally visit in Pittsburgh. The to-go beers are very inexpensive as well with an appreciable selection of forties.
Gooski's Kitchen
Gooski's has a kitchen as well, which has a limited menu of very reasonably priced items and surprising vegetarian options (vegan kielbasa is $2.75 and the pirogues are incredible!). However, when ordering, don't hesitate. Even the slightest "Uhh" will lose the bartenders attention as they go to wait on more assertive patrons. This isn't a personal diss or a negative reflection on the bartender, it's a testament to the fact that these bartenders are here to serve, not to dilly-dally.
Photo: Gooski’s www.gofathom.com
After a couple big Straub's, you're bound to get acquainted with the bathroom. While the room is tidy, the walls have never been painted over. This creates a template for some of the best bathroom graffiti in Pittsburgh. With a large "KIDS" tag above the urinal and an homage to the deceased writer behind you, the bathroom is a veritable who's-who of Pittsburgh artists, leaving a bit of room for future wordsmiths.
Bathroom graffiti image via: www.youropinionsarewrong.com
If in Pittsburgh at all, check out Gooski's on Brereton Ave. While in Polish Hill, you should also check out Mind Cure Records, one of the most unique record stores in the city.
By Doug
Editor’s note: Gooski’s has, by far, the best jukebox in the ‘Burgh.
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