Lara Borrasso, a Pittsburgh bartender who made a lasting impact on the city’s nightlife, passed away on Monday, December 2, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of excellence in bartending. For 15 years, Borrasso wowed patrons and colleagues alike with her speed, precision, and unmatched ability to work the bar efficiently, earning the title of Best Bartender in 2019.
Lara transitioned into bartending from her previous role as a barista after realizing the career offered better financial rewards and more opportunities to develop her skills. What began as a practical decision quickly evolved into a passion, as Borrasso became known for her lightning-fast reflexes and sharp memory. She rarely had to ask customers to repeat their orders or remind her what they were drinking when it was time for a refill. Her skill in managing the busy pace of the bar was unparalleled, and her ability to keep track of multiple tabs without missing a beat was nothing short of impressive.
Lara also enjoyed challenging herself with mental games while working, such as matching patrons to their open bar tabs without asking for their names, an activity that kept her mind sharp while maintaining the speed and precision she was known for.
Born and raised in Pittsburgh, Lara’s bartending style was deeply influenced by her hometown. She was known for her meticulous attention to detail, even rinsing the tops of beer cans before opening them to ensure a clean and refreshing experience for her customers.
The loss of Lara Borrasso is felt deeply within Pittsburgh’s bartending community. Her influence, work ethic, and commitment to providing the best service possible have left a lasting mark on the city. She will be remembered not only for her skill behind the bar but also for her warm personality and dedication to making every patron feel special.
