My man and I recently honored our two year anniversary. Two years of laughter, adventure, whimsy, lessons learned, tiny moments of pure love and joy. Two years spent with my best friend.

To celebrate, we sought out a restaurant called Meat & Potatoes in downtown Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania (we were in his home state for the holidays). I’m not sure whether I’m thrilled or upset that we happened upon this spot. Thrilled because the food, cocktails, and ambience were amazing. Upset because it’s nowhere near Los Angeles.

We arrived without a reservation on a Sunday night, but as luck would have it there was room for us at the bar. All mahogany and marble, the behemoth oval-shaped bar sits at the center of the room, surrounded by quaint bistro tables, booths, and high-back chairs. Taxidermy and chalkboards decorate the walls, and large black chandeliers loom here and there.  As we nestled in, our bartender greeted us and handed over manila file folders which held the menus. Long lists of absinthe, crafty cocktails, and a good selection of beer and wine tempted us. I immediately ordered a Manhattan (always my drink of choice), and set out to study the  food selections.  Ever the moules frites enthusiast, I had a very hard time passing over their three choices for steamed mussels. The saffron, lemongrass, and coconut milk broth sounded particularly mouth-watering. Instead, we decided to share a few small plates and a flatbread. Mike chose the fried brussel sprouts and I ordered the tartare with smoked poached egg, seaweed, and chili oil. Though we “shared”, I couldn’t help hoarding the tartare – it was beyond outstanding.

Next came a scrumtious little flatbread that was highly recommended by our server. A warm, crisp crust topped with bleu cheese, cheddar, freshly grated horseradish, melt-in-your-mouth short ribs, and peppery arugula.

Full, fat, and happy, we lingered to talk and people-watch. I enjoyed a tiny can of Sofia Blanc de Blancs (yes, bubbly from a can, courtesy of Sofia Coppola), and Mike switched to a beverage with bubbles as well…beer in an ice cold mason jar. If we had taken a taxi rather than driven ourselves, I’m sure a glass of absinthe would have been the nightcap of choice…. the bartenders’ preparation of this age-old libation was mesmerizing! I loved the old-world ice water decanter and vintage spoons. Very tempting indeed!

With the late-night theatre crowd ebbing in, we finally shrugged on our coats and headed back out onto the icy Pittsburgh streets, rosy cheeked and utterly happy. Happy Anniversary!

Meat & Potatoes : 649 Penn Avenue, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania {412.325.7007}