About Side Quest
SideQuest on 44th is an independent two-level bar, kitchen and live-music venue in Pittsburgh’s Lawrenceville neighborhood (www.sidequestpgh.com ) (arcane.city ). Located at 146 44th St, it occupies the site of the longtime Cattivo club (arcane.city ) (pghevents.net ). The space holds roughly 350 people (www.bandsintown.com ) and combines gritty industrial décor with playful gaming touches (the menu even features items like “The Green Shell” and “The Critical Hit”) (sidequestpgh.com ) (sidequestpgh.com ). Guests often note its friendly, dive-bar–style vibe – a comfortable, inclusive setting born from its Cattivo heritage (pghevents.net ) (sidequest-on-44th.wheree.com ). The venue prides itself on quality sound and local community support; as the manager describes, SideQuest “books Pittsburgh collectives alongside touring DJs” and runs a “dialed-in sound system” for late-night concerts (www.sidequestpgh.com ). With classic cocktails, a late-night kitchen and a loyal local crowd, SideQuest has become a notable anchor of Lawrenceville’s nightlife scene.
Events and Programming
SideQuest hosts a wide variety of events almost every week. Its calendar mixes electronic music nights (drum & bass, dubstep, house, etc.) with rock/alternative and themed parties. Recent lineups have included bass-driven DJs like Buunshin and WonkyWilla (sidequest44.com ), experimental producers like Super Future and Luzcid (sidequest44.com ) (www.bandsintown.com ), and live-band nights (e.g. emo/pop-punk events labeled “Emo Night” featuring bands like Flicker//Fade (sidequest44.com )). The venue also regularly offers unusual theme nights and variety acts – for example, monthly comedy nights (“Eight @ 8” stand-up series (sidequest44.com )), drag-queen shows (Queer Takeover events), industrial/noise music parties (sidequest44.com ), and even fetish or burlesque evenings. SideQuest serves both local Pittsburgh artists and touring acts: for example, in 2024 bass-music star ill.Gates headlined a sold-out club show (arcane.city ), and in late 2025 the schedule featured electronic producer Luzcid and punk-rapper Michael Wavves (www.bandsintown.com ). Smaller local concerts often have modest cover charges (\$5–\$15), while bigger-name DJs or special events run \$15–\$30. (For instance, advance tickets for ill.Gates were \$20, \$25 at the door (arcane.city ).) Shows typically run late (often midnight or 2:00 AM end times on weekends), so check the event listings ahead of time. Overall, there’s almost always something happening – a high-energy dance party or live show most weekends – making SideQuest a go-to spot for Pittsburgh’s alternative music fans.
Tickets and Booking
VIP seating or a physical box office are not part of SideQuest’s setup. Instead, tickets for each show are handled by the event’s promoter through online platforms (Ticketfly, Eventbrite, etc.) (www.pghcitypaper.com ). The venue itself does not sell tickets directly, but it does offer will-call pickup at the door on show nights (www.pghcitypaper.com ). In practice, that means you should buy tickets from the promoter or venue website in advance. Popular or limited-capacity shows can sell out, so buying early is wise. If a performance is not sold out, any remaining tickets are typically available at the door – typically priced slightly higher than advance tickets (www.pghcitypaper.com ). For example, advance and day-of pricing may differ (as seen with the ill.Gates event (arcane.city )). There are no reserved seats – all shows are general admission – so arriving early can get you a better spot. Keep an eye on SideQuest’s social media or email list for presale notices and on-sale dates. In short: get tickets through official channels and in advance for big acts, or plan to line up at the door if it’s a smaller show.
Seating and Layout
SideQuest’s layout is divided over two floors. The ground (street) level contains the main stage and a bar area, while the upper level functions as a bar lounge and additional seating (www.pghcitypaper.com ) (www.pghcitypaper.com ). Typically, concerts fill most of the lower floor with standing room; the venue provides movable tables and chairs on both levels so capacity can expand if needed (www.pghcitypaper.com ). In practice, fans often stand at floor level near the stage for the best view, while others relax at tables or the upstairs balcony rail for a broader perspective on the show. The sound system is tuned for clarity, so the front row experiences pounding bass and volume – earplugs are recommended for sound-sensitive visitors (sidequest-on-44th.wheree.com ). The upstairs bar area offers a quieter vantage point (albeit farther from the action) and more space to sit or chat. Overall capacity is around 350 people (www.bandsintown.com ); removing furniture can slightly increase this during very crowded shows. There are no assigned seats or VIP sections. Generally speaking, choose the area (floor or balcony) that matches your vibe — dancing near the stage or chilling with drinks above — as the acoustics and atmosphere differ between levels.
Getting There and Parking
The venue’s address is 146 44th Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15201 (www.sidequestpgh.com ), one block east of Butler Street in Lower Lawrenceville. Driving is common, but parking can be tricky. There is no dedicated lot; you must use on-street parking. The curbside meters on 44th Street and nearby are metered (usually at 75¢-$1 per hour) and enforcement ends at 6 PM on weekdays and is free on evenings (www.pghcitypaper.com ). In practice, this means parking is free after 6 PM and on Sunday. Otherwise, plan to feed the meter or find a side street spot well before a show. A good tip is to arrive at least 30 minutes early to find parking. Because parking is limited and local roads can back up, rideshare is often the easiest solution. Uber or Lyft drop-offs at the front door are straightforward (the venue suggests rideshare for most customers) (www.pghcitypaper.com ). Public transit options include the Port Authority buses: routes 91 and 93 run along nearby Butler Street (www.pghcitypaper.com ) (about a 5–10 minute walk), and route 61 on Penn Ave is a few blocks west. These buses run until late evening but not past midnight; there is no direct subway or light-rail service to Lawrenceville. In short, if possible take a ride-share or friend’s car for a night out, especially for late shows. If you drive, leave extra time for traffic and pay parking, or consider parking farther away since on-street parking fills up quickly on weekend nights.
Inside the Venue
Entering SideQuest feels like stepping into a lively club with a low-light, creative decor. There’s a large bar on each floor (www.pghcitypaper.com ) serving a full selection of drafts, cocktails and non-alcoholic beverages. Signature cocktails and craft beers are highlights, and the drink menu rotates frequently. Bartenders keep the relaxed social mood — patrons often praise the friendly, attentive staff (sidequest-on-44th.wheree.com ). Because the focus is on music and fun, there is no strict dress code (www.pghcitypaper.com ); most people wear casual clothes or club attire. At the door, expect a security check: large backpacks or bags are discouraged, and if you bring one it will be searched (www.pghcitypaper.com ). Carry only what you need (phone, wallet with ID, small bag) to speed entry. IDs are checked diligently, as nearly all events are 21+ (www.pghcitypaper.com ) (some special events or daytimes may allow younger guests, but it’s wise to assume 21+ and bring valid ID). The upstairs bar area is connected by an open interior, so staff circulate well between floors. SideQuest also has a modest kitchen open late for food orders (www.sidequestpgh.com ) (www.pghcitypaper.com ). Options include pizza, sandwiches (like hoagies and gyros), plates of wings or fries, and other bar snacks (www.pghcitypaper.com ). Food is made to share — think $8–$15 entrées — and the late hours mean you can grab a bite even at midnight. (Men’s and women’s restrooms are on both floors (www.pghcitypaper.com ), as is an ATM on the upper level (www.pghcitypaper.com ).)
Nearby Amenities
Lawrenceville is a bustling neighborhood with many restaurants and bars just a block or two from SideQuest. For pre-show dining, you’ll find pizza shops (New York style and specialty pies), casual grills and gourmet interstate. (For example, a popular spot is Roundabout Brewery & Eatery on Butler St, a short walk away.) Butler Street, one block west, is lined with bars, distilleries and eateries: craft brewery taprooms, burger joints and late-night diners abound. Take-out and delivery options are plentiful if you want to bring food back, but eating in the neighborhood is part of the experience. Since shows run late, plan to arrive early for dinner. After shows, note that Pittsburgh transit is very limited; few if any buses run past midnight. Rideshare or taxis at 2 AM can be hard to find immediately, so plan onward transportation in advance. (If you must drive home, remember Lawrenceville parking is usually free after midnight.) For lodging, keep in mind Lawrenceville itself has mainly rental apartments, so concertgoers usually stay in downtown hotels or Shadyside/East Liberty areas – just a 5–10 minute drive from SideQuest.
What Makes This Venue Special
SideQuest stands out in Pittsburgh for its unique blend of video-game–themed fun and serious music credentials. The quirky arcade-inspired decor and menu (with items like “Final Smash” and “Koopa Melt” (sidequestpgh.com )) give it a playful “side quest” theme that reflects gamers and pop culture. This creative concept, combined with gritty industrial-chic bar design (pghevents.net ), creates an atmosphere unlike most standard clubs. Patrons often comment on the inviting, almost nostalgic charm – as one review put it, “an intimate venue with a dive-bar vibe” that supports local music scenes (sidequest-on-44th.wheree.com ). Musically, SideQuest has become reputable for high-quality sound and lighting in a small space (www.sidequestpgh.com ). Fans love that you can see acts up close and even interact with artists after the show, which is rare in a bigger theater. The venue’s legacy also helps: taking over from Cattivo, it has kept Lawrenceville’s LGBTQ-friendly and DIY spirit alive. For example, Pittsburgh bass-heads still rave about memorable nights when heavy hitters like ill.Gates dropped tracks here (arcane.city ), and local insiders note that the club’s excellent acoustics and community vibe keep both artists and audiences coming back. In short, SideQuest is special because it marries a truly immersive theme to a serious concert experience, serving as a cultural hub for gamers, musicians and nightlife lovers alike.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The main entrance is at street level and has a ramp, making the first-floor lounge and bar accessible to wheelchair users (www.pghcitypaper.com ). However, note that the performance area (downstairs) is only reachable by stairs, so it is not fully ADA-accessible (www.pghcitypaper.com ). Restrooms on each floor are partially handicap-accessible. Ask staff for assistance if needed.
Age and ID: Most SideQuest events are strictly 21 and over (www.pghcitypaper.com ). Always bring a government-issued photo ID. If an all-ages show (rare) were held, it would be clearly stated in the event info. Never assume underage minors can enter.
What to bring: Carry a legal photo ID and your ticket or e-ticket (print or on your phone). A small amount of cash is useful (there’s an ATM upstairs (www.pghcitypaper.com ) but it may charge a fee). Consider earplugs if you’re sensitive to loud sound (the PA can be strong near the stage). Bring a camera if you want, but be mindful of others – no flash photography during concerts. Large bags, backpacks and outside food/drink are discouraged; any bag larger than a small purse will be searched at the door (www.pghcitypaper.com ).
Dress code and behavior: There is no formal dress code (www.pghcitypaper.com ) – people dress casually, often to fit the genre of the night (e.g. band tees at rock shows). Just be respectful to staff and other guests. Professional conduct is expected: keep common areas clear, don’t bring open alcohol from outside, and follow any posted rules (for example, if a particular event restricts smoking upstairs or similar).
Parking and Transportation: As noted, parking is street-only. You may need to pay a meter (though evening/free after 6 PM) (www.pghcitypaper.com ). If you drive, allow extra time to find a spot. For late-night departure, rideshare is safest — Pittsburgh’s buses stop running around midnight. If you are staying overnight in the city, many people find nearby hotels outside Lawrenceville (Downtown, Shadyside, or the Strip District) for convenience.
Common mistakes: A few things frequent visitors recommend avoiding: don’t show up without an ID – they won’t let you in if you look under 30 without one; don’t assume you can skip buying a ticket in advance for a packed show (popular nights often sell out); and don’t plan on sleeping in the car – downtown parking anyway is monitored. Make sure your phone is charged (there’s not much cell service detail posted) and have the venue’s address handy for directions.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I buy tickets to a show at SideQuest?
Tickets are sold through each event’s promoter rather than at the door or a central box office (
www.pghcitypaper.com ). Usually you will buy online (Ticketfly, Eventbrite, or similar) when the show goes on sale. If tickets remain, you can often buy them at the door on show night (though usually at a slightly higher price) (
www.pghcitypaper.com ). The venue’s website or social media will link to the official ticket seller for each event.
Can I purchase tickets at the door?
Yes, if an event is not sold out, you can buy tickets at the door for most shows. Usually there will be a ticket seller (or will-call pickup) at the entrance. Keep in mind door prices may be higher than advance prices. We recommend buying ahead for very popular acts, but lesser-known local shows often have tickets available on entry (
www.pghcitypaper.com ).
Does SideQuest have a box office or will-call?
SideQuest does not maintain its own box office. All ticketing is handled by the show promoter (
www.pghcitypaper.com ). However, the venue provides a will-call window at the door for ticket pickups under a reservation name. So if you purchased tickets online (or have a guest list reservation), simply give your name to the door staff and they will search for your tickets in the will-call list.
What are the typical ticket prices?
Prices vary by event. Local or smaller bands and DJs often charge modest covers (around \$5–\$15). National touring acts or special events may be \$15–\$30 in advance. For example, the advance ticket for an Ill.Gates DJ show was \$20 and \$25 at the door (
arcane.city ). Comedy nights and theme parties might be \$5–\$10. Always check the specific event listing, as prices are set by the promoters.
What is the best way to get to SideQuest by public transport or car?
SideQuest’s address is 146 44th Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15201 (
www.sidequestpgh.com ). By car, you should plan for on-street parking (paid meters along 44th Street, free after 6 PM (
www.pghcitypaper.com )). Rideshare (Uber/Lyft) is highly recommended for evening shows (
www.pghcitypaper.com ). By bus, routes 91 and 93 stop on nearby Butler Street (a short walk) (
www.pghcitypaper.com ), but service ends by late evening. Note there is no subway/LRT stop in Lawrenceville, and post-midnight buses are scarce. If in doubt, grand plans call for taxis or rideshares up front, especially late at night.
Is there parking at SideQuest?
There is no dedicated parking lot. Parking is limited to street spots on 44th Street and adjacent blocks. These are metered until 6 PM (after that they’re free on weekdays) (
www.pghcitypaper.com ). On busy weekend nights, finding a spot can be difficult, so we advise arriving early or using alternate transit. Rideshare drop-off at the front door is often the easiest solution (
www.pghcitypaper.com ).
What public transit serves SideQuest?
The closest buses are large-city routes along Butler Street: the Port Authority routes #91 and #93 stop within a few blocks of SideQuest (
www.pghcitypaper.com ). Route 61 on Penn Ave (a bit farther west) is also an option. However, these lines do not run late into the night (service typically ends by 11–12 AM). Light rail (T) stations and other bus lines are downtown, about 1 mile south. Because of the limited late-night transit, ride-share services are often recommended for returning home after shows (
www.pghcitypaper.com ).
Is the venue wheelchair accessible?
SideQuest has a ramp at the front entrance and the first (upper) floor is wheelchair-accessible (
www.pghcitypaper.com ). However, there is no elevator to the ground floor show area, so seating at the performance level is only reachable by stairs. Restrooms on the upper floor are partially accessible, but those downstairs are not. In summary: the main entrance and lounge areas are accessible, but the stage level is not ADA-equipped (
www.pghcitypaper.com ).
Does SideQuest have reserved seating?
No. All general-admission: no assigned or reserved seats. Typically the downstairs floor is a standing-room style crowd near the stage, and the upstairs has tables and bar seating you can claim on a first-come basis (
www.pghcitypaper.com ) (
www.pghcitypaper.com ). If you arrive early, you can position yourself where you like (floor or balcony) and stay there for the show.
Are there any good spots to sit or stand for better viewing?
It depends on your preference. Many fans stand on the lower floor close to the stage (front and center) for full sound immersion – just be prepared for loud volume. The upstairs bar level has a balcony that overlooks the stage (
www.pghcitypaper.com ), which is quieter and gives a full view if you prefer space. There are no obstructed-view sections, so you can alternate floors during the show. If you need seats, try the upper lounge, but remember it fills up on big nights so come early to grab a spot.
Is smoking allowed inside?
Yes, as of the last reports SideQuest (like its predecessor) permits indoor smoking (including vaping) unless a specific promoter or event requests otherwise (
www.pghcitypaper.com ). In practice, you may see people smoking in designated areas inside, but some shows (especially late at night or for certain crowd comfort) might prohibit it. Always check signage at the door or ask if smoking policies are in effect for that night.
Are children or pets allowed?
Because SideQuest is primarily a bar and club venue, official policy is 21+ for most events (
www.pghcitypaper.com ). Children are not typically permitted at shows (except certain advertised all-ages events or family matinees, which this venue rarely holds). Pets (service animals aside) cannot be brought in. In short: plan for an adult audience environment.
What is the bag policy?
Security at the door enforces a strict bag check. No large backpacks or oversized bags are allowed; any bag you bring will be searched upon entry (
www.pghcitypaper.com ). We recommend bringing only a small purse or museum bag. This helps keep lines moving and enhances safety. No outside alcohol or glass containers are permitted.
Is there an ATM or do they take credit cards?
Yes – SideQuest has an ATM on the second floor (
www.pghcitypaper.com ), and the bars accept credit/debit cards (
www.pghcitypaper.com ). So you don’t have to pay cash only. However, it’s still wise to carry some cash for tips, cover charges, or if the card machines have technical issues late at night.
What food is available onsite?
The venue offers a late-night bar menu. Typical offerings include pizza slices, sandwiches (gyros, hoagies, chicken plates) and bar snacks (wings, fries, nachos) (
www.pghcitypaper.com ). The kitchen usually stays open until closing (often past midnight on weekends) (
www.sidequestpgh.com ). These are more than just small appetizers – entree prices are generally \$8–\$15 each. No outside food is allowed past security, so plan to eat onsite or before arriving.
What are SideQuest’s typical hours of operation?
SideQuest is open in the evenings, primarily Thursday through Sunday. According to their official schedule, opening hours are usually Thursday 5 PM–Midnight, Friday 5 PM–2 AM, Saturday 5 PM–2 AM, Sunday 12 PM–8 PM, and sometimes Monday 5 PM–Close (
www.sidequestpgh.com ). (They are typically closed Tuesday and Wednesday.) Event times vary by show; always check the specific event listing for door-opening and start times.
