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Remember when dining out didn’t feel quite so expensive? Post-Gazette dining critic and City Cast contributor Hal B. Klein has the literal receipts to show just how much prices have increased at Pittsburgh’s favorite restaurants. He joins host Megan Harris to explain what’s driving up the cost of dining out, why restaurants aren’t necessarily making more money, and how some local spots are trying to keep their doors open without pricing their customers out. Plus, who’s actually making the most money off our increasingly expensive meals? Notes and references from today’s show: ‘Profitability is down quite a bit’: Patrons to restaurateurs, everyone is feeling the cost of dining out [🔒Post Gazette] 👋 Wanna talk to us about an episode? Leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893 or email [email protected]. We’re also on Instagram!  💌 You can get more Pittsburgh news delivered right to your inbox by subscribing to the City Cast Pittsburgh morning newsletter.  🏡 Get more from City Cast Pittsburgh when you become a City Cast Pittsburgh Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members-only events, and more. Join the City Cast Pittsburgh Neighbors program! 🥁 Looking to advertise on City Cast Pittsburgh? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads.  Learn more about the sponsors of this Wednesday, November 11th episode: Experience Butler County City Theatre Handmade Arcade Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre P3R - Save 20% with code CITYCAST20

Introducing The Midterms Are Over. The Fight for Democracy Isn't. w/ Heather Cox Richardson from Assembly Required with Stacey Abrams. Follow the show: Assembly Required with Stacey Abrams A blue tsunami swept across the country in the 2026 midterm elections, delivering a major rebuke to Trump and the Republican regime at every level and reshaping the political landscape. Stacey is joined by writer and historian Heather Cox Richardson to break down the election results and the moments that surprised the country. Together, they explore why this moment feels different in the arc of American history, how a diverse electorate helped drive victories across the country, what fueled Democrats’ sweeping gains, and what’s happening in the Mississippi and Alaska races, where votes are still being counted. Then, they turn to the question on everyone’s mind: What now? What can Democrats do with their newfound power, and how can we keep fighting against authoritarianism? Learn & Do More:  BE CURIOUS: Visit Heather Cox Richardson’s Substack, Letters from an American, and sign up for her newsletter atheathercoxrichardson.substack.com. SOLVE PROBLEMS: As of this taping, the Mississippi Senate race remains extremely close, thanks in large part to organizers on the ground. Consider supporting Working Together Mississippi, Mississippi Center for Justice, and theSouthern Rural Black Women’s Initiative so they can continue their vital work. DO GOOD: While voters delivered a stunning rebuke to the Trump administration, in part because of its aggressive immigration enforcement policies, vulnerable communities still need our help. Visit Immigrant Defenders Law Centerand consider donating to support its free legal aid for people impacted by the immigration system. Each Step Homealso offers opportunities to donate to the commissary fund for immigrant families who remain imprisoned at Dilley Detention Center. You can request a transcript by emailing [email protected]. Include the podcast name, episode title, and air date. Please allow 48 hours for delivery. DISCLAIMER: Please note, this is an independent podcast episode not affiliated with, endorsed by, or produced in conjunction with the host podcast feed or any of its media entities. The views and opinions expressed in this episode are solely those of the creators and guests. For any concerns, please reach out to [email protected].

Mayor Corey O’Connor just proposed his budget for 2027. The good news: more funding for parks and rec centers. The bad news: our city is dipping into savings to cover a big deficit. Yikes! Host Megan Harris and executive producer Mallory Falk talk through the major line items — including controversial cuts to affordable housing and violence prevention programs — as well as the long road ahead to actually getting the budget approved. Plus, we round up some new movies and shows that were filmed in Pittsburgh, the recent string of bizarre car crashes, and what events we’re looking forward to this week. Notes and references from today’s show: ‘Do more with less’: O’Connor gives 1st budget address amid financial woes [TribLive] Mayor Corey O’Connor Presents 2027 Budget to Pittsburgh City Council [City of Pittsburgh] 5 things to know about Pittsburgh’s proposal to reduce pension contributions [TribLive] Car crashes into Page's new ice cream truck on Pittsburgh's South Side [WTAE] World War I memorial toppled over by truck in Pittsburgh [WPXI] Crews free stuck semi-truck in Pittsburgh’s California-Kirkbride neighborhood [WPXI] New trees on Pittsburgh’s North Shore to replace ones cut down for NFL Draft [WPXI] DiCarlos Pizza makes its Pittsburgh comeback [Axios Pittsburgh] Pitt student gets stuck between buildings trying to impress woman (2016) [Pitt News] Pittsburgh became the city of the viral heist: The filming locations of How to Rob a Bank [Movie Walks] Pennsylvania Plays a Sweet Role in ‘Hershey’ [Pittsburgh Magazine] Pittsburgh-Shot Series ‘Nocturne’ Premieres Next Week [Beyond the Cinerama Dome] 👋 Wanna talk to us about an episode? Leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893 or email [email protected]. We’re also on Instagram!  💌 You can get more Pittsburgh news delivered right to your inbox by subscribing to the City Cast Pittsburgh morning newsletter.  🏡 Get more from City Cast Pittsburgh when you become a City Cast Pittsburgh Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members-only events, and more. Join the City Cast Pittsburgh Neighbors program! 🥁 Looking to advertise on City Cast Pittsburgh? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads.  Learn more about the sponsors of this Tuesday, November 10th episode: Experience Butler County City Theatre Handmade Arcade Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre P3R - Save 20% with code CITYCAST20

The days are shorter, temperatures are dropping, and Pittsburgh’s gray skies will soon be making their comeback. But instead of dreading the next few months, why not lean into them? Host Megan Harris and contributor Sophia Lo are sharing their favorite ways to stay cozy in the Burgh, from quilting circles to silent book clubs to high tea with homemade marshmallows. Plus, they have tips for staying social even as the cold weather moves in. Notes and references from today’s show: Find Your Next Read at Pittsburgh’s Best Independent Bookstores [City Cast Pittsburgh] A New Way to Celebrate Queer Romance in Pgh [City Cast Pittsburgh] Massages, Mud Wraps & More Pgh Spa Day Ideas [City Cast Pittsburgh] It's fall. Let's get cozy! [Life Kit] 👋 Wanna talk to us about an episode? Leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893 or email [email protected]. We’re also on Instagram!  💌 You can get more Pittsburgh news delivered right to your inbox by subscribing to the City Cast Pittsburgh morning newsletter.  🏡 Get more from City Cast Pittsburgh when you become a City Cast Pittsburgh Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members-only events, and more. Join the City Cast Pittsburgh Neighbors program! 🥁 Looking to advertise on City Cast Pittsburgh? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads.  Learn more about the sponsors of this Monday, November 9th episode: Experience Butler County City Theatre Handmade Arcade Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre P3R - Save 20% with code CITYCAST20

It’s fall in Pittsburgh, but just this week, cities across the country experienced record-high heat. In Somerville, MA, the city government is realizing that rising temperatures deserve their attention and intervention year round — and they’re running a fun, generous program to help. David is joined by Elyse Belarge from the Somerville Mayor's Office of Sustainability and Environment to talk about the city’s pilot to de-pave and re-vegetate residential lots. Elyse shares the jaw-dropping impact of asphalt-free zones, as well as the joy of taking sledgehammers to driveways in your neighborhood. Mentioned on the show: Cooling East Somerville program and application for residents: https://voice.somervillema.gov/cooling-east-somerville   The Barr Foundation, which funds Somerville’s work as part of a cohort: https://www.barrfoundation.org/climate/initiative/community-heat-resilience/  Is there something your city is doing that we should be talking about? Email David now!  We’re also on Instagram: @yourcitycouldbebetter

The dust has settled after Election Day, and there’s a lot to unpack! Democrats’ big wins have changed the political landscape but nationally and locally, and John Fetterman may not have as much sway as he used to. Executive producer Mallory Falk and contributors Sophia Lo and Colin Williams are talking about what that means for Congress, why Josh Shapiro had such a strong showing in Allegheny County, and what Democrats might actually get done now that they control Harrisburg. Plus, could the Pittsburgh Mills mall finally make a comeback under new ownership? And who crashed into Page’s ice cream truck? Then in today’s bonus segment for City Cast Pittsburgh Neighbors, we’re getting into all the animal antics at this weekend’s Pittsburgh Pet Expo. Notes and references from today’s show: Track John Fetterman’s Senate voting record [Fetterman Voting] John Fetterman votes with his party less frequently since Trump took office, rarely attends meetings [Philly Inquirer] Fetterman’s voting record compared to fellow senators amid Democratic fury [Newsweek] Democrats ‘Fetterman proofed’ the Senate with wins in longtime red states, Pa. senator’s critics say [Philly Inquirer] Pennsylvania voters flip 4 congressional districts to Democrats [Pennsylvania Independent] Democrats win majority in Pa. state Senate, achieving elusive ‘trifecta’ in Harrisburg [WHYY] Election maps: How the blue wave rippled in Allegheny County [Public Source] Voters overwhelmingly approve plan to merge Mars Borough and Adams Township [KDKA] Garfield's Fish nor Fowl of the Richard DeShantz Restaurant Group closes [🔒Post-Gazette] Pittsburgh Mills tenants hope new owner brings life back to the mall [TribLive] What to know about Comstock Holding Cos., Pittsburgh Mills’ expected new owner [TribLive] Car crashes into Page's new ice cream truck on Pittsburgh's South Side [WTAE] 👋 Wanna talk to us about an episode? Leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893 or email [email protected]. We’re also on Instagram!  💌 You can get more Pittsburgh news delivered right to your inbox by subscribing to the City Cast Pittsburgh morning newsletter.  🏡 Get more from City Cast Pittsburgh when you become a City Cast Pittsburgh Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members-only events, and more. Join the City Cast Pittsburgh Neighbors program! 🥁 Looking to advertise on City Cast Pittsburgh? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads.  Learn more about the sponsors of this Friday, November 6th episode: Pittsburgh Arts & Lectures Film Pittsburgh Pittsburgh Opera Liberty Magic YWCA

Whether you’re hosting a small group, need some backup for a big family, or just want to grab an impressive dish to contribute to the Thanksgiving spread, we’ve got you covered. Contributor Sophia Lo joins host Megan Harris to break down the best places to outsource your holiday meal — sides, mains, desserts, and all. Plus, we talk about some ways to give back, which restaurants are still taking reservations for the big day, and where we recommend you go if you find yourself in need of a last-minute meal. Notes and references from today’s show: Where To Order Thanksgiving Takeout in Pittsburgh [City Cast Pittsburgh] 👋 Wanna talk to us about an episode? Leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893 or email [email protected]. We’re also on Instagram!  💌 You can get more Pittsburgh news delivered right to your inbox by subscribing to the City Cast Pittsburgh morning newsletter.  🏡 Get more from City Cast Pittsburgh when you become a City Cast Pittsburgh Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members-only events, and more. Join the City Cast Pittsburgh Neighbors program! 🥁 Looking to advertise on City Cast Pittsburgh? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads.  Learn more about the sponsors of this Thursday, November 5th episode: Pittsburgh Arts & Lectures Film Pittsburgh Pittsburgh Opera Liberty Magic YWCA

Pennsylvania Democrats have declared a trifecta, saying they've taken full control of the state House, state Senate, and governor's office for the first time in decades. But a few key races still haven't been called. Executive producer Mallory Falk and creative producer Marla Kauffman break down what we know so far, from Gov. Josh Shapiro's quick and easy victory to PA's role in reshaping the U.S. Congress. Notes and references from today’s show: Pa. Gov. Shapiro wins second term against GOP challenger, state Treasurer Garrity [WESA] Democrats say they’ve won the Pennsylvania House and Senate, handing Shapiro a powerful trifecta [Spotlight PA] Allegheny County voters reject effort to grant more spending power, bigger role for council [WESA] 👋 Wanna talk to us about an episode? Leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893 or email [email protected]. We’re also on Instagram!  💌 You can get more Pittsburgh news delivered right to your inbox by subscribing to the City Cast Pittsburgh morning newsletter.  🏡 Get more from City Cast Pittsburgh when you become a City Cast Pittsburgh Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members-only events, and more. Join the City Cast Pittsburgh Neighbors program! 🥁 Looking to advertise on City Cast Pittsburgh? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads.  Learn more about the sponsors of this Wednesday, November 4th episode: Pittsburgh Arts & Lectures Film Pittsburgh Pittsburgh Opera Liberty Magic YWCA

It's Election Day, and Pennsylvania Democrats are hoping to win a trifecta for the first time in decades: controlling the state Senate, House, and governor's office. If that happens, they could pass a slew of bills that are currently sitting in committee, from data center regulations to restrictions on Flock cameras and other automated license plate readers. Host Megan Harris and contributor Colin Williams run through some of the bills whose future may hinge on today's results, plus a few bipartisan measures that recently became law. We also discuss the truly staggering amount of money that candidates, super PACs, and other entities have spent on what is now the most expensive election in U.S. history. Notes and references from today’s show: As Pennsylvania’s legislature wraps up its session, many bipartisan bills are poised to fail [Spotlight PA] Pa. House advances bills limiting student cellphone use and Flock-like cameras [Pennsylvania Capital-Star] Pennsylvania legislature passes Alicia’s Law to help investigate, prosecute internet predators [WPXI] PA House passes first-ever e-scooter regulations [Fox 43] Pennsylvania House passes bill requiring AI disclosure in healthcare [Radiology Business] Bill to block public utility status for data centers passes Pennsylvania House [ABC 27] Pennsylvania House Advances Vital Legislative Package to Support Local Journalism and Civic Information [Free Press] Pennsylvania one of the first states to require disclosures on AI-generated ads [KDKA] Pennsylvania restricts use of PFAS chemicals in firefighting foam [Allegheny Front] Pa Senators advance legislation to create online registry of felony animal abusers [WJAC] Pennsylvania Senate passes bill to protect seniors from financial scams [WGAL] Campaign spending takes off in airport-area Pa. House race [Public Source] U.S. midterms could be the country's most expensive elections yet. To what end? [CBC] Allegheny, Westmoreland prepare for Election Day as DOJ poll monitors restricted [TribLive] Who’s Keeping Tabs on Election Day? [City Cast Pittsburgh] PODCAST: County Executive Sara Innamorato on New Taxes, Election 'Observers' & Paid Leave's Potential Windfalls [City Cast Pittsburgh] 👋 Wanna talk to us about an episode? Leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893 or email [email protected]. We’re also on Instagram!  💌 You can get more Pittsburgh news delivered right to your inbox by subscribing to the City Cast Pittsburgh morning newsletter.  🏡 Get more from City Cast Pittsburgh when you become a City Cast Pittsburgh Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members-only events, and more. Join the City Cast Pittsburgh Neighbors program! 🥁 Looking to advertise on City Cast Pittsburgh? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads.  Learn more about the sponsors of this Tuesday, November 3rd episode: Pittsburgh Arts & Lectures Film Pittsburgh Pittsburgh Opera Liberty Magic YWCA

Tomorrow is Election Day! If you haven't done your homework yet, host Megan Harris and executive producer Mallory Falk are here to guide you through. We're talking about the ballot question for Allegheny County voters — asking whether county councilors should get more resources and benefits — plus the handful of races that could determine control of the Pennsylvania legislature. Finally, we share some important Election Day tips and a few fun events to check out this week…in addition to hitting the polls. Before you vote: Check your polling place or find a mail-ballot return site. If you're voting at your polling place for the first time, you'll need to show identification. Here's the list of valid forms of ID. Notes and references from today’s show: What does the Allegheny County ballot question mean? [WESA] The 2026 races that could decide control of the Pennsylvania House and Senate [Spotlight PA] Three local races to watch on Election Day in the Pittsburgh region [Public Source] Pennsylvania 2026 election voter guide [WESA] Voter guide 2026: Where candidates stand on ICE, war, and data centers [Public Source] 👋 Wanna talk to us about an episode? Leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893 or email [email protected]. We’re also on Instagram!  💌 You can get more Pittsburgh news delivered right to your inbox by subscribing to the City Cast Pittsburgh morning newsletter.  🏡 Get more from City Cast Pittsburgh when you become a City Cast Pittsburgh Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members-only events, and more. Join the City Cast Pittsburgh Neighbors program! 🥁 Looking to advertise on City Cast Pittsburgh? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads.  Learn more about the sponsors of this Monday, November 2nd episode: Pittsburgh Arts & Lectures Film Pittsburgh Pittsburgh Opera Liberty Magic YWCA

When you think of Waymo, you might not yet think of Pittsburgh. But you should definitely be thinking of Austin, Texas. State law governing autonomous vehicles (AVs) supersedes city authority and prevents local governments from regulating AVs, creating areas that have become increasingly attractive to AV companies. City Cast Austin host Miles Bloxson joins Your City Could Better to talk about if this loose regulation is good for Texas, particularly its dense capital city, whether local benefit is a priority for manufacturers at all, and how cities can learn from Austin if a similar influx hits their streets.  Mentioned on the show: City Cast Austin’s episode on AVs regulation: https://austin.citycast.fm/podcasts/are-texas-schools-using-ai-to-ban-books-plus-driverless-cars-in-austin-and-new-michelin-stars  Waymo blocking emergency response to Austin shooting: https://www.axios.com/local/austin/2026/03/02/waymo-vehicle-blocks-ems-austin-mass-shooting  The city of Austin’s public dashboard tracking incidents involving AVs: https://austin.maps.arcgis.com/apps/dashboards/dbd59d9b20634de1afad32a8267b739b# Is there something your city is doing that we should be talking about? Email David now!  We’re also on Instagram: @yourcitycouldbebetter Looking to advertise on Your City Could Be Better? Check out our options.

It's officially the season of giving thanks, and while there's plenty to complain about (looking at you, endless construction!), there's also so much to be grateful for when it comes to living here — including the multitude of fun and quirky activities. The City Cast Pittsburgh team is sharing our favorite ways to make the most of November, from enjoying a pop-up sauna to catching a juggling fest to sipping a "Waterfront cocktail." Wanna meet the team in person? Reserve your FREE ticket to “What is Pittsburgh’s Brand? Challenged by the Future" on Tuesday, Nov. 10. Host Megan Harris is hosting a conversation between local teens and civic leaders on topics like safety, belonging, and mental health. Get your ticket now! 👋 Wanna talk to us about an episode? Leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893 or email [email protected]. We’re also on Instagram!  💌 You can get more Pittsburgh news delivered right to your inbox by subscribing to the City Cast Pittsburgh morning newsletter.  🏡 Get more from City Cast Pittsburgh when you become a City Cast Pittsburgh Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members-only events, and more. Join the City Cast Pittsburgh Neighbors program! 🥁 Looking to advertise on City Cast Pittsburgh? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads.  Learn more about the sponsors of this Friday, October 30th episode: Pittsburgh Arts & Lectures Visit Athens Ohio Liberty Magic

Will the county raise sales taxes to help fund our pension system? Should we be concerned about the federal election monitors arriving at our polls next week? Host Megan Harris is bringing these questions and more to County Executive Sara Innamorato. They discuss the timeline for property reassessments, AI in political ads, and bright spots in the county budget — plus, why Innamorato thinks the county's new paid parental leave law could actually attract more businesses, and how she plans to respond to potential legal challenges to the policy. Finally, they get into the county's plan for when Innamorato is away welcoming her first child. 👋 Wanna talk to us about an episode? Leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893 or email [email protected]. We’re also on Instagram!  💌 You can get more Pittsburgh news delivered right to your inbox by subscribing to the City Cast Pittsburgh morning newsletter.  🏡 Get more from City Cast Pittsburgh when you become a City Cast Pittsburgh Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members-only events, and more. Join the City Cast Pittsburgh Neighbors program! 🥁 Looking to advertise on City Cast Pittsburgh? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads.  Learn more about the sponsors of this Thursday, October 29th episode: Pittsburgh Arts & Lectures Visit Athens Ohio Liberty Magic

Pittsburgh has a new proposal to tax the rich, Allegheny County’s fully paid parental leave policy is officially law, and local listeners have more gym recommendations than we can fit in a workout. City Cast Pittsburgh’s Megan Harris and Mallory Falk are answering listener questions about who qualifies for leave, celebrating another Pittsburgh-area union win, and giving a shoutout to an overlooked (and much-needed) local invention on TIME’s Best Inventions of 2026 list. Plus, we’ve got listener-recommended gyms around the region and a guide to celebrating Día de los Muertos in Pittsburgh, with community altars, family-friendly activities, and events worth adding to your calendar. Notes and references from today’s show: Where to Celebrate Día de los Muertos Around Pittsburgh in 2026 [City Cast Pittsburgh] PODCAST: Parental Leave Proposal Gets a Makeover [City Cast Pittsburgh] Allegheny County Council passes parental leave mandate in 11-4 vote [Public Source] The Best Inventions of 2026 [Time] PODCAST: How To Die Sustainably in Pittsburgh [City Cast Pittsburgh] 👋 Wanna talk to us about an episode? Leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893 or email [email protected]. We’re also on Instagram!  💌 You can get more Pittsburgh news delivered right to your inbox by subscribing to the City Cast Pittsburgh morning newsletter.  🏡 Get more from City Cast Pittsburgh when you become a City Cast Pittsburgh Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members-only events, and more. Join the City Cast Pittsburgh Neighbors program! 🥁 Looking to advertise on City Cast Pittsburgh? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads.  Learn more about the sponsors of this Wednesday, October 28th episode: Pittsburgh Arts & Lectures Visit Athens Ohio Liberty Magic

What makes a restaurant one of Pittsburgh’s best? Is it the food, the service, the atmosphere or something harder to put your finger on? Pittsburgh Post-Gazette dining critic and City Cast contributor Hal B. Klein is back with his annual list of the city’s best restaurants, and this year he’s narrowing down his favorites to a top ten. He joins host Megan Harris to talk about the longtime staples that keep getting better, the newer spots making a name for themselves, and a few surprises that made the cut. Plus, Hal shares what goes into choosing the city’s best restaurants, why being a great place to work matters, and his strong feelings about QR code menus. 👋 Wanna talk to us about an episode? Leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893 or email [email protected]. We’re also on Instagram!  💌 You can get more Pittsburgh news delivered right to your inbox by subscribing to the City Cast Pittsburgh morning newsletter.  🏡 Get more from City Cast Pittsburgh when you become a City Cast Pittsburgh Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members-only events, and more. Join the City Cast Pittsburgh Neighbors program! 🥁 Looking to advertise on City Cast Pittsburgh? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads.  Learn more about the sponsors of this Tuesday, October 27th episode: Pittsburgh Arts & Lectures Visit Athens Ohio Liberty Magic