By Anna Yoder
Nestled in the quaint, quiet, and historic neighborhood of Manchester is a late 1880’s Victorian home where in-house infused spirits, custom curated cocktails, and light bites are offered in a relaxing speakeasy setting. Yet what really sets this establishment apart from the run of the mill cocktail bars is the wide range of music you will hear playing from their 1,000+ vinyl record collection spinning on a vintage turn table. The music selection ranges from 1940’s jazz, country, pop to hip hop and heavy metal. And yes, all music playing from real vinyl records!
You will find this cool vibe at The Lion, a neighborhood cocktail bar co-owned by Hayley Watters and Jason McCarty.
Before its dramatic and stunning makeover into The Lion, this cocktail bar started as an unassuming and cozy neighborhood pub called Leo, a public house which opened in April 2019. Jason, a huge Pittsburgh sports fan and with 15 years in the “bar business” moved to the Northside in 2018 and became the mastermind behind Leo’s infused cocktails.
When the opportunity presented itself, Jason — who was already the “face” of Leo’s, familiar with the layout of the building, and “loved” working there — found it a natural step to become the co-owner of The Lion.
Hayley and Jason believe that there is “some sort of magic in the Northside” that brings “people together” and “where you can get to know your neighbor.” Hayley and Jason liked the idea of being a “community hub” where this “magic” happens, and neighbors engage while having the “opportunity to be exposed to different types of music.” In fact, Hayley and Jason contend that the ever-changing variety of music provides a “different experience” for the customer every time they come into The Lion.
When they began the design for The Lion, Jason and Hayley did not want to “step totally away” from Leo’s concept. Rather they wanted to “pay homage to Leo” and retain the “neighborhood cocktail bar” feel of the place. They also wanted the place to have the feel of an “unpretentious, comfortable speakeasy.” Jason and Hayley transformed the space into their vision of The Lion in only 28 (really long) days. When I stepped inside the building for the first time after its transformation into the Lion, I was absolutely blown away and needed to know who designed the space! As it turns out, it was Hayley, who is also an interior designer.
When you enter The Lion, you are struck with its elegant “inkwell” blue-black walls and ceilings, which sets what the owners call a “dark and moody” tone. Paired with tasteful and eclectic artwork, gorgeous and comfy caramel colored leather chairs and couches accented with vintage accessories, you are immediately immersed in a calming and soothing ambiance. As intended by the owners, this is an “inclusive” place where you can “come as you are” and whether you are “young or old,” it offers something for and welcomes everyone. However, there is a lot more to The Lion than just its good looks. “Light bites” and cocktails are also part of what The Lion has to offer to its customers.
Yet do not underestimate the “light bites” concept. From “in-house made” pepperoni rolls, pulled pork sandwiches with vinaigrette slaw and raspberry BBQ sauce, stuffed banana pepper hoagies covered with marinara and a melted Italian cheese blend to Isaly’s chipped ham barbeque sandwiches — the “light bites” will satisfy most appetites and do not disappoint. The reasonable price does not disappoint either. The Lion serves vegetarian options such as a “cheese, tomato, and onion toastie” and offers vegans options as well (By the way, a “toastie” is British slang for a toasted sandwich). The light bite specials change frequently so keep coming back to find your favorite.
The Lion is unique in their approach to cocktails. Their hand-crafted specialty cocktails are made with inhouse infused spirits and “juices that are all freshly squeezed” to give the drinks an authentic and appealing flavor. Jason remains the primary creative force behind the cocktail creations. For instance, the “Strawberry Tequila Sunrise” uses fresh strawberries, freshly squeezed orange and pineapple juices mixed with a splash of Aperol that transports you to a beautiful tropical beach without leaving the Northside!
My personal favorite is the “Purple Drank” concocted with “pea flower infused gin,” grapefruit, lime, and lemon juices along with simple syrup. This tasty concoction tastes just like a sweet tart intended to pucker your lips. Sweet, sour, and super tasty! (And I do not even like gin.)
The renowned “Recoil” is a customer favorite made with “lemon thyme infused whiskey,” cayenne pepper, lemon juice (which “cuts the heat”) and ginger beer. The cocktail has a delicate balance of flavors and is not a “spicy” drink. According to Jason, it is rare to find this cocktail in the city. So, grab a “Recoil” at The Lion while you can.
If nothing on their extensive cocktail list inspires you, Jason and his staff are happy to work with you to find the right blend for your palate. And a great thing — you can enjoy these delicious cocktails as mocktails! Same full body flavor without the alcohol.
Looking for a place where you can gather with friends (or make new ones), have a bite to eat, and enjoy a cocktail in a calming atmosphere relaxing to great music; then come to The Lion. You will find its roar is very soothing.
The Lion is located at 1207 Allegheny Ave. and is open every day at 4 p.m.
