Fun place. Lively place and bar tenders were great.
I understand why they elect not to remodel. They want to preserve the old depressing atmosphere. But, I don't believe that it does them much good, as far as attracting new customers.If they want to stick with the niche crowd that you have, fine. It's your loss. They would be making a great business decision if they would just clean this place up, and re-do it as a casual pub atmosphere, with a modern kitchen, and appliances. They can keep the booths, and the tables, just put in nice, comfortable, clean, new ones. Get rid of that stuffy atmosphere. With their location, the place could be overflowing with customers.
The Cage has been a staple in Squirrel Hill and Pittsburgh for a very long time. You can't go wrong with the food. They also have inexpensive drinks and beer.
The iconic "cage". They're back (did they even leave?), and now smoke free for better or worse.Still one of the best places in the city for a reasonably priced beer and cheeseburger.
I really enjoy this place. It's not fancy. It's a cozy neighborhood bar. The staff has no turnover. I have literally watched some of them go gray. You might have to wait a bit for a drink. For the right person, it's worth the wait. The story is, during prohibition, they sold 'coffee'. In coffee cups, if you follow. This place has been here longer than you have been alive, and probably hasn't changed much. This means the basic model works. Good burgers, wings, a couple beers- how is this a bad plan? I have had some great conversations here. The crowd is smart, down to earth, and funny. Bourdain liked it, but that was back when you could smoke inside. I don't miss that part.
The Squirrel Hill Cafe, also know as "The Cage," has been a Squirrel Hill staple for a long time. It's an old school cool spot, with alcohol, cheap food, and a nice staff. Overall, good place.
Leave your jackets in the car, as smoking is allowed. A great neighborhood place to unwind and walk home.
Bring your own food while the kitchen is closed. Great vibe, $4-5 local taps, PBR on tap too!
A little bit too smokey for my taste but it's a quaint little local hideaway.
The food is not the reason people come here.