Discovering Culinary Delights: Our Food Editor’s Adventure at Pittsburgh’s TubClub

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I’m not a fan of the cold (just ask my comfy skull cardigan). But there I was, convinced by Tyler Butler and Eric Tenpas of Pittsburgh TubClub, ready to take a dip in 100 gallons of ice water in the middle of winter, all in public! It sounded crazy, but I was excited.

Surprisingly, it turned out to be refreshing. After enjoying a pint of beer and some guided breathwork, I joined fellow TubClubbers in a sauna for a bonding session. Then came my turn to brave the ice bath. Clad in my “Chiller Theater” T-shirt, I stayed in the icy water for 5½ minutes—longer than recommended, and I had to be told when to get out. Let’s just say I was feeling pretty heroic afterward.

If you’re someone who often experiences hot flashes, like me, ice baths can feel like a mini-vacation. It’s a quick way to cool off both physically and mentally.

Lisa Ray, a veteran member of TubClub and owner of Hammajack Heat Co., filmed my chilly adventure. It felt great to have her support, and it was even better to know that delicious hot food from the Kilimanjaro Flavour food truck was waiting outside.

When I finally emerged from the water, people cheered for me as I made my way to the firepit. With a refreshing Easy Ryeder Rye Lager in hand and the song “Born to be Wild” playing in my mind, I felt on top of the world.

Just a quick note: my mom wouldn’t approve of my ice bath at a brewery.

If you’re not a fan of the cold, don’t worry. Butler and Tenpas regularly host yoga, sauna, and ice bath sessions at their headquarters, which is in an old funeral home in Spring Hill, and it’s always a lively scene. For those of us who enjoy a little adventure, it’s the perfect place to chill out!