Ranking Cranberry's Most Terrific Taverns

CRANBERRY TOWNSHIP, PA - Summer is a season to get out of the house and socialize, and there aren’t many better ways to do that than by imbibing with a friend or neighbor at your local tavern or restaurant. Ah, but which one? Cranberry has many. Which are the best?

Opinions vary, of course. But we sought the thoughts of Yelp users on the topic.

What follows is their top 10 list of bars in Cranberry. Do you agree with the choices? Do you see a glaring omission? Is one or more of these places overrated?

Let us know in the comments section below or on Patch’s Cranberry Facebook page.

1.Juniper Grill, 2030 McKenzie Way, Cranberry
Not exactly a shot and a beer joint, but Yelp reviewers love the place. Said one reviewer: “The
bar area is very nice..This was a great addition several years ago to the Cranberry area. The outdoor area in the summer is a nice option. Added another: “Amazing service. Jen at the bar is awesome. Made a stranger to Pittsburgh feel at home.”

2. Ember and Vine, 910 Sheraton Drive, Cranberry
Not a neighborhood joint where Stush tends bar, but this place apparently is a good place to grab a drink. “I also had the ember Cosmo, nice and light, not too sweet (and) the hubby chose a draft beer from their extensive list,” one Yelpster wrote. Another offered this tip: “(I) recommend the Ember and Vine draft. It’s brewed in Slippery Rock.”

3. Firebirds Wood Fired Grill, 7300 Cranberry Springs Drive, Cranberry
The restaurant chain has been open less than a month in this location but already has rocketed up to number three. “The mango mojito was fabulous,” raved one Yelp reviewer. Said another: “Excellent drinks, delicious food.”

4. The Sports Grille at Cranberry, 1294 Freedom Road, Cranberry
“Excellent selection of craft brews always. Full bar for those that prefer that,” one Yelpster opined. “Great place to hang out, watch hockey, baseball, football etc. Another wrote: “In my opinion, it’s the best sports bar in the area.”

5. BRGR, Cranberry Mall
The staff here received kudos for their friendliness. “(The bartender) was so personable. He even took the time to shake everyone’s hand to thank them for stopping in. Major props to him,” wrote one Yelp reviewer.

6. River City Grille, 100 Cranberry Woods Drive, Cranberry
Honestly, we’re not sure how this turned up on Yelp’s list of Cranberry’s best bars. While the food received high marks, we couldn’t find a single review that referenced the bar, bartenders, drinks or happy hour specials. Color us confused.

7. Emilliano’s Mexican Restaurant & Bar, 20111 Route 19, Cranberry
“The menu and drink prices are very reasonable and they actually have an excellent bar area with lots of TVs. Definitely recommend,” wrote one Yelpster. Another offered: “Their margaritas on the rocks with a salt rim are my all time favorite drink.” We’re getting thirsty.

8. Pig Iron Public House, 926 Sheraton Drive, Mars
The takeout possibilities impressed this Yelp reviewer: “The best part of our late lunch was the discovery of gigantic can growlers to go. Twenty-five ounces of so of draught beer jammed into a can that's sealed for future consumption!” Another patron added: “They have a gluten free beer on tap (which was great), and they also have ciders.”

9. Wind Haven Bar and Grill, 20744 Route 19, Cranberry
“A best kept secret among locals and a great alternative to the homogenous franchise bars and restaurants in town,” one Yelpster wrote. Another offered: “The bar is welcoming and super fun.”

10. Jimmy Wan’s, 1686 Route 228, Cranberry
“I really enjoy the hip vibe,” a Yelp reviewer wrote. “ The bar area in particular is really cool, with moody lighting and interesting artwork.”

Photo via Yelp.