8 Oakmont Gems to visit during the U.S. Open

Don’t have tickets for the U.S Open? Don’t fret, Oakmont’s lovable main strip is loaded with great destinations.

The 2016 USGA U.S. Open begins this weekend. While Oakmont Country Club offers a wide variety of outlets for golf enthusiasts, Oakmont’s main strip off Allegheny Avenue boasts some terrific destinations for fans looking to enjoy the sights and sounds of the Open without making the trip to the course.



Dining



PHotos by Neil Strebig



Hoffstot’s Café Monaco

​Café Monaco is an Oakmont staple. They’ve been around for decades and the ambiance at Hoffstot’s embodies the homestyle feel of the Oakmont community. Diners can stop for a midday lunch break, swing in to watch the late afternoon championship rounds while enjoying an early dinner or visit the bar for a post-session nightcap. Café Monaco has a little bit of everything, but I recommend trying their fried provolone and bruschetta with a glass of Shooting Star sauvignon blanc.

[533 Allegheny Ave., Oakmont; 412/828-8555, hoffstots.com]







Brr-Kee’s Homemade Ice Cream

After a ten-hour day in the sun touring the holes of a U.S. Open session, why not treat yourself to some homemade ice cream on your way back home? Their hazelnut gelato is just what the doctor ordered. They’re open till 11 p.m. on Friday and Saturdays; make sure you bring some bills, because this joint is cash-only.

[539 Allegheny Ave., Oakmont; 412/828-4666]







Chelsea Grille

Want to make a night out of your U.S. Open trip? Clark’s is your best bet, since the dining experiencing caters to patrons looking for a little extended R&R after their time at the country club. The open dining room on the right-hand side is perfect for cool, summer evenings. A nice montepulciano pairs perfectly with their rack of lamb or one of their many steak options.

[515 Allegheny Ave., Oakmont; 412-82-0570, chelseagriloak.com]







Mike’s Wife’s Bar & Grill

At the tail end of the Allegheny Ave. strip, Mike’s is the perfect hideaway.. It’s is a no thrills, straight-forward Pittsburgh-styled bar. For less than $10 patrons can grab a pint of Old Milwaukee on draft and a quarter-pound burger. Their down-to-earth atmosphere is the perfect getaway for fans seeking a break from the high-society, country club environment. Don’t forget to check out their outdoor patio another pleasant surprise for this gem of a bar.

[905 Allegheny Ave., Oakmont; 412/828-2070, mikeswifesbarandgrill.com]







Oakmont Bakery

For many Pittsburghers, the famous Oakmont Bakery needs no introduction. As far as notoriety goes, their acclaimed almond torte gives the Oakmont Country Club a run for its money. It’s a perfect destination for a morning cup of coffee and a slice of sweet before watching the morning rounds. In addition, they are introducing a brand-new selection of pastries and cakes celebrating this week’s U.S. Open.

[531 Allegheny Ave., Oakmont; 412/826-1606, oakmontbakery.com]

The Pub at 333

Tucked away in a minor strip mall across from the Oaks Theater, this gastropub has a wonderful patio outside and lively atmosphere inside. Their menu is perfect for outdoor summer dining. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy an EPA served in a mason jar as you watch the final rounds of the open play out.

[333 Allegheny Ave.; Oakmont, 412/794-8251]

Entertainment





The Oaks Theater

Looking for a little extra entertainment after the U.S. Open? Why not catch a show at Oakmont’s classic theater? This weekend is loaded with a variety of acts including blues-sensation Barbaba Blue on Friday and the classic rock of Eddie and the Rollers on Saturday.

[310 Allegheny Ave., Oakmont; 412/828-6322, theoakstheater.com]







Mystery Lover’s Book Store

There aren’t too many bookstores like this anymore. Mystery Lover’s Book Store is petite shop that crams more mystery and suspense into its tiny corridors than even Sherlock Holmes can fathom. Their eclectic literary collection offers a different spin on your traditional bookstores, something that will bring a smile to every bookworms’ face.

[514 Allegheny Ave., Oakmont; 412/828-4877, mysterylovers.com]