Con Alma in Shadyside ends regular hours, to open for special music events

There will still be jazz music playing at Con Alma in Shadyside, just not on a regular basis.

“We are unfortunately not going to be open regular hours,” said Aimee Marshall, one of the owners. “We will be open for special music events.”

She didn’t want to elaborate more on the situation but said guests can follow on social media and check the website for upcoming performances.

Con Alma announced the ceasing of normal operations on social media.

Con Alma restaurant and jazz bar opened on Ellsworth Avenue in Shadyside in 2019. The Downtown spot on Penn Avenue in the Cultural District followed a year later, in 2020.

The entertainment venue is inspired by the rich heritage of jazz in Pittsburgh. Con Alma means “with soul.”

This change does not affect the Downtown location, Marshall said. It will continue to be open seven days a week. Chef Josh Ross will continue to create the menu Downtown.

Noting how the pandemic has affected all small independent music venues and restaurants, Marshall said people are just now starting to venture out and that she is seeing more of a late-night crowd as in pre-pandemic days.

She said both locations have been affected by people working from home and not going out as much for happy hour and after-work get-togethers.

“We are so thankful for the support we have and for the people who believe in our story,” Marshall said. “We do it all with soul. We want to preserve the jazz legacy here.”

She said they are sad that there won’t be regular evenings in the Shadyside space, but remains optimistic with the events they will host there and that the Downtown spot continues to thrive.

Hours at the Downtown location are 5 p.m. to midnight Monday through Thursday (kitchen closes at 10), 5 p.m. to 1 a.m. Friday and Saturday (kitchen closes at 11), and noon to 8 p.m. Sunday with all-day brunch.

Details: conalmapgh.com