It’s almost time to step back into the 1920s.
Uncorked, the Pittsburgh region’s newest jazz and blues-themed wine bar and restaurant, is set to officially open Nov. 9 at 703 Main St. in Sharpsburg.
The public event will showcase an evening of old-school jazz glamour with gourmet small plates, curated wines, handcrafted cocktails and live music from 6 to 9 p.m.
Owner Anthony Moret of Lower Burrell and general manager Corey Pisarski of Oakmont have partnered since March to transform the space that was formerly 4Four6, a craft distillery that closed last year.
Moret, owner of Moret Construction Co. in Lower Burrell, said the decision to open a new business in Sharpsburg made sense. It’s his first foray in the restaurant business.
“Sharpsburg is the new up-and-coming suburb of Pittsburgh, with the riverfront development, the existing and new businesses along Main Street and the wonderful people in the borough,” Moret said.
Uncorked welcomed invited friends and family to a soft opening weekend Oct. 26-27.
“Your support means the world to us, and we couldn’t have asked for a better way to kick off this exciting journey,” Pisarski said.
A trip to New York City last summer served as inspiration for Moret when he and his wife patronized a jazz tavern and fell in love with the vibe.
“Given the vast history Pittsburgh has in that industry, plus the abundance of talented performers here, I decided to run with it,” Moret said.
The row-house building, dating to the 1930s, previously was an Imperial Cleaners.
Exposed brick throughout was restored to its former glory, blending with a renovated dark tin ceiling and ample leather bench seating.
“We are going with a 1920s theme, and our cocktail list will feature Prohibition drinks,” Pisarski said.
Live entertainment will be provided by resident jazz performer Jessica Lee and Mark Strickland.
The concept is an upscale jazz bar from the Roaring ’20s and 1930s.
“We were looking to do something no one else does — to stand out — and Anthony had this building so it made sense,” Pisarski said.
Pisarski brings decades of food and beverage experience, having formerly worked as manager at Chelsea Grille in Oakmont.
“Whether you’re a food enthusiast, a jazz lover or both, Uncorked promises an unforgettable experience,” Pisarski said. “Mark your calendars and be among the first to enjoy the harmonious blend of exceptional cuisine and live music.”
Menu selections include roast hen ($15), lobster ($22), pappardelle ($16), kobe steak ($30), ravioli ($18) and lamb ($18) from chef Mark Stein.
Vegetarian options include endive ($14), beans and greens ($14), roasted carrots ($12) and broccoli rabe ($12).
Joyce Hanz | TribLive
Uncorked will open at 4 p.m. Wednesdays through Saturdays and at noon Saturdays.
Live music nights are every Friday and Saturday.
Pisarski said they had to cover the front of the store because so many musicians were coming in to check out the new space.
“I want someplace where people can come and experience something different,” Pisarski said. “The interior is designed to make people feel connected, whether they’re catching a jazz set or just grabbing a drink.”
The walls are lined with photos of jazz greats including Ella Fitzgerald, and musical guests will play classical, jazz blues and all types of jazz.
“We created a Roaring ’20s vibe with the decor and atmosphere and added an execeptional food venue with great wines and cocktails,” Moret said. “This is my first venture into the industry and probably would not have unless Corey agreed to team up.”
“It will be a very broad spectrum of jazz-related music,” Pisarski said.
Uncorked will have a staff of about 15 to 20. Jessica Lee will be its resident jazz performer.
Three handpainted jazz-inspired murals were created by artist Phil Seth of Avalon.
“It’s a lot of fun, and I think this place is really fitting the bill of the authentic, dark and smoky looking jazz club. The vibes in here are really strong,” Seth said. “I hope this will become a staple of the Sharpsburg area.”