Space Bar: Pittsburgh’s Cosmic Escape Where Mixology Meets the Final Frontier
Written by Delaney Pipon
The brainchild of owners with deep Pittsburgh roots and a passion for both mixology and astronomy, Space Bar is a testament to the city's forward-thinking spirit. Inspired by a grandfather's engineering background and childhood wonder at the moon landing, the downtown Pittsburgh bar embodies the optimism and hope inherent in space exploration. It's a place where patrons can escape the mundane and let their imaginations soar among the stars.
Step inside Space Bar, and you're immediately transported to a sleek starship observation deck. The 20-foot-long viewing area gives the illusion of cruising through the cosmos, complete with a virtual universe created by one of the owner's brothers, a video game developer. The attention to detail is staggering—every element, from the walls to the tables, has been handcrafted by friends and family, making Space Bar a true labor of love.
The decor is a blend of futuristic aesthetics and scientific authenticity. Clean lines in black, white, and gray are softened by plush, swiveling seats that invite patrons to settle in for a night of celestial exploration. Authentic lab wear, PPG glasses from the actual space race, and even a piece of an Apollo mission add gravitas to the sci-fi ambiance.
But the real stars at Space Bar are the drinks. The bar's commitment to molecular mixology puts it in a league of its own. Each drink is carefully crafted, designed to, as owner Dale Vaughn puts it, "evoke the wonder of space exploration while offering a comforting sense of home." This philosophy is evident in every sip.
Take "The Moon Landing," for example—served in an astronaut-shaped glass atop a miniature lunar module, it's as much a visual spectacle as it is a taste sensation. The "Old Earth Fashion" showcases the bar's innovation with its miso-washed bourbon, house-made bitters, and a hint of banana liqueur. For those seeking something lighter, the "Fifth Element" combines yuzu sake with fresh, acid-adjusted cucumber juice and mint, demonstrating the bar's commitment to "super juicing"—a 40-hour process that maximizes flavor extraction.
While Space Bar's cosmic cocktails may draw you in, it's the sense of community that keeps you orbiting back. This partially LGBTQ-owned and operated establishment offers a diverse array of events that cater to all interests. From stand-up comedy and space trivia nights to drag bingo and cosplay karaoke, there's always something happening at Space Bar.
Whether you're a cocktail connoisseur, a space enthusiast, or simply someone looking for a unique night out, Space Bar offers an experience that's truly out of this world. Experience Space Bar for yourself at 22 Market Square, Pittsburgh, PA. Open Tuesday through Sunday with extended hours on Saturdays, it's the perfect spot to unwind after work or launch your weekend with a cosmic twist.
