Shadyside's "Cafe at the Photo Forum"

 One of Pittsburgh's heretofore "best kept secrets" is clearly ready
 for the "next level."  It's the well established Photo Forum
 gallery in Shadyside, now unveiling its full-service restaurant,
 aptly named the "Cafe at the Photo Forum."  Owner Eric Mendelson
 has brought in a professional manager and a fine chef, and together
 they have developed something quite unique.  It's a combination of
 artistic elegance, super dining, and weekend musical entertainment
 ... all at extremely affordable prices.

 Carole and I had dinner there this evening, and the Chef's Special
 consisted of a beautiful presentation of two crab cakes (that
 tempts the Baltimore in us -- it's the real stuff) and a sumptuous
 portion of linguini marinara.  At the front end I had a large cup
 of vegetable-beef soup, and Carole was thrilled with the vegetarian
 chili.  The hearth-baked wheat rolls were fresh, warm, and
 delicious.  The coffee selection should more than meet everybody's
 requirements.

 There's more ... much more to say ... all surprisingly good; but
 we'll leave the rest for some of your reports.  The service was
 courteous and competent, and it promises to keep getting better as
 this enterprise develops.  The owner expects a liquor license soon,
 and when spring rolls around, the courtyard "Secret Garden" is
 certain to be a real charmer.

 Now's the time to give this one a try.  They're ready for
 Pittsburgh, and we're happy about it.  It's located at 5884 Ellsworth
 Avenue, near Saybrooks, the Fajita Grill, the Elbow Room, and
 Harris Grill.  We didn't need a reservation, but suspect that this
 won't be the case for long.

 Just another nice touch.

 Cheers,
 Jack