HALO OPENS IN CHURCH

East Carson Street has a jumping new venue in what once was the Cleaves Temple church at 1005 E. Carson St., South Side. Halo Cafe is the creation of Clint Pohl, who also owns Andora. It's open seven days a week for lunch and dinner. Call 412-431-HALO.

JP'S CLEARS THE AIR

There is good news from Jim McDermott, owner of JP's Cafe at 2516 E. Carson St. The cafe has installed a powerful new ventilation system that assures that none of the tiny kitchen's fumes make it into the dining area. A great spot has gotten better.

BIG ON BURGUNDY

2002 was a banner year for Burgundy wines. Pennsylvania Premium Wine and Spirits Collection Stores are currently featuring a selection of 2002 pinot noirs from Burgundy at interesting prices.

NEW AT NEVILLEWOOD

Pandolfo's Cafe in Nevillewood is excited about its new executive chef, Douglas Noxon. He has worked in kitchens from New York to California and was most recently executive chef at Nemacolin Country Club in Beallsville, Washington County. Pandolfo's Cafe recently became a licensed alcoholic beverage dining venue.

WINE FOR FRIENDS

Bruschetta's restaurant at 1831 East Carson St. will host a wine tasting to benefit Friends of Pittsburgh 50 Finest honoree Lisa Tomasovic and the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation from 7 to 10 p.m. July 21. In addition to wine and food, there will be a martini bar and live jazz entertainment. Cost is $65 in advance, $75 at the door. Call 412-427-5945.

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY

The DeFabo family have been operating Rizzo's Malabar Inn in Crabtree, Westmoreland County, for 70 years. Next week, the fifth generation of DeFabos will celebrate with a drawing for their patrons to win a 70th anniversary gift basket or to order dinner from the Rizzo's menu of days gone by. Call 1-800-794-4323 for the entire program.

NEW TO THE SCENE

Readers report a new cafe and gift shop on McLaughlin Run Road in Upper St. Clair called the Common Ground Cafe. Shadyside also welcomes a new dining spot, La Casa, at 5884 Ellsworth Ave.

SUMMER AT THE GARDEN

Olive Garden restaurants have introduced four new items on their summer menu. Smoked Mozzarella Fonduta sounds particularly yummy.