The Chef

Richard DeShantz is the chef and owner of Butcher and the Rye, in the Cultural District of Pittsburgh, PA. The two-story restaurant is a destination for its extensive whiskey collection and creative menu, which offers contemporary riffs on rustic American dishes.

Butcher and the Rye is the first Pittsburgh bar to be nominated for a James Beard Foundation Award for Outstanding Bar Program since the category was created in 2012.

Interior Design

At Butcher and the Rye, details carefully come together to create a unique experience that pays homage to the rustic Americana. Designed by Richard DeShantz, the space is carefully curated to complement the menu and is approached as a layering of different textures and colors.

Oil lanterns take the place of candles on some tables. A chandelier of white antlers hangs over one of the dining rooms. Tattoo-inspired murals adorn the tables and chairs. Vintage knives and cleavers are displayed by the entrance. Antique doorknobs are installed as purse hooks at the bar. A 1920's flag with 48 stars faces the window of the other private dining room.

The Bar

Awarded James Beard Semifinalist for Outstanding Bar Program for two consecutive years, the Butcher and the Rye boasts an ambitious cocktail program that adds depth to the Pittsburgh dining scene. In addition to three custom and locally-sourced beers on tap, 12 cocktails on draft, 30+ wines and 15+ featured cocktails, our skilled team of bartenders and mixologists have an arsenal of numerous cocktails, including many of their own custom creations.

Butcher and the Rye features two bars. The first bar is located on the main floor and features our acclaimed Whiskey Wall, boasting 600+ varietals of whiskey. Our Rye Bar is located on the second floor and features a first-come, first-served craft cocktail bar, a library for lounging and a more private dining room. The private dining room can be reserved upon request.