12. Tango Cafe

Photo: PopCity Media

Just as advertised, "Five thousand miles north of Buenos Aires, in the Squirrel Hill neighborhood of Pittsburgh, PA, Tango Café is a popular gathering spot for all who enjoy friendly conversation, delicious coffee, and authentic homemade Argentinean pastries." 

The pastries are indeed fantastic, and the empanadas and bocadillos are quite good as well.  Add to that the only cafe con leche I've found in town and you've got yourself a fine meal. 

Located right by the intersection of Forward and Murray, Tango Cafe also offers informal Spanish language sessions on weekday evenings.

More here.

11. Plenty of local tango groups

Painting: Fabian Perez

If you're interested in exploring this Argentine dance in Pittsburgh, tienes muchas opciones:

• PATangoS
• Tango in the Burgh
• Pittsburgh Tangueros
• Pgh Tango Connection

10. Mexico City

I love Mexican food.  And while we're not in Southern California or Arizona, or Mexico for that matter, Pittsburgh's selection of authentic Mexican cuisine is growing.  For my peso, the best around is Mexico City.  They manage to pack the seats routinely at both downtown locations--on Smithfield and Wood Streets--and no doubt will continue that trend with their new tacqueria on East Carson.