I was excited when I heard that Vanilla Pastry Studio was coming to Regent Square- baked goodies are my favorite. Vanilla is located in busy Regent Square, on bustling Braddock Avenue. The newly constructed building sits next to Typhoon; there’s plenty of parking in front of the store. The facade of the building is contemporary, and covered with large panes of glass. When I walked into Vanilla I was immediately received with the aromatic, sweet smell of cupcakes- yum.

I enjoy Italian food… a lot. Rich melted cheeses, lasagna, pasta, red sauce and meatballs- what’s not to like? I had never heard of Roman Bistro on Ardmore Boulevard until today- apparently I’ve been out of the Italian restaurant food-loop for quite some time.

Roma Bistro is a large restaurant, with a seating capacity of 150. Upon entry you can’t help but notice the large bar stretches half the length of the front eating area. Another, more private dining area is located past the bar, ideal for private gatherings.

Thai Cottage now occupies the space that Green Mango once did. The ambiance is similar to that of the former eatery- minimal décor ornamented the walls; soft ethnic music played in the background.

I’m not a huge fan of chain-restaurants, that being said, I do like TGI Friday’s… the food is always fresh, and most importantly, you always know what you’re going to get.

I recently had the opportunity to visit Park Pizza and Cream at 7600 Forbes Avenue.

I had the opportunity to have dinner at the new Bonefish Grill in the South Hills. It was opening night, and the place was packed with hungry patrons anxious to sample the cuisine.

It’s not always easy to decide what to do on New Year’s Eve- go out, or stay in? Last night my girlfriend and I and another couple decided to go to a club/restaurant in the Strip named Cavo. Cavo is a relatively new business, which was evident when I walked through the doors at 7pm.

When I arrived at Cucina Bella, I felt as if I was in an Italian cafe straight from Tuscany.

Jumper’s Junction, Washington, PA

I recently had the chance to try some pastries from a bakery in Squirrel Hill run by a Mother/Daughter team by the name of The Cake and Cookie Spot. The large cookies from The Cake and Cookie Spot are visually stunning.