Lara Borrasso Death, Obituary Pittsburgh, PA – The city of Pittsburgh is grieving the sudden loss of one of its most beloved figures, Lara Borrasso. Known for her unparalleled skill behind the bar, Borrasso’s death has left an indelible mark on the community, especially those who were fortunate enough to know her as more than just a bartender. Lara’s passing on December 3, 2024, has sent shockwaves throughout Pittsburgh, particularly on the South Side, where she spent many years making Ruggers Pub a staple of the local nightlife scene.
A multiple-time winner of the Pittsburgh City Paper’s “Best Bartender” award, Lara Borrasso was not just a professional behind the stick, but a friend, confidante, and protector to those who frequented her bars. Her sharp wit, quick reflexes, and genuine kindness made her a standout figure in Pittsburgh’s bar scene. Those who shared a drink with Lara or enjoyed the company of friends at Ruggers Pub remember a woman who could simultaneously command the room and make every individual feel valued.
Her impact on the South Side is immeasurable. As Alex Gordon, a close friend and former colleague, poignantly noted in a Facebook tribute, “Ruggers Pub wouldn’t be around today without her, and her memory will live on in our walls forever.” Lara was known for her fierce loyalty to her regulars, her ability to mix a drink with lightning speed, and the mentorship she provided to those just entering the world of bartending. Many, like Gordon, described her as a “mentor, protector, and source of necessary tough love.”
After spending years serving the vibrant South Side community, Lara moved to Key West, Florida, where she continued her bartending career. While her physical presence may have left Pittsburgh, her influence remained. It is clear that Lara’s legacy transcended geography, as tributes from across the country poured in, illustrating the profound effect she had on everyone who crossed her path.
Borrasso’s ability to connect with others was unparalleled. She was tough but fair, no-nonsense yet full of compassion. Her persona was a blend of strength and kindness that made her unforgettable. Whether she was sharing a laugh with patrons or offering tough love, Lara’s authenticity and fierce sense of self made her one of a kind. Pittsburgh and Key West have both lost an irreplaceable individual, and the world is poorer for it.
As the community continues to process the loss, those who knew Lara remember the joy, laughter, and wisdom she brought into their lives. In her memory, they’ll continue to raise a glass to the incredible woman who defined so much of what it means to be part of a neighborhood, a bar, and a family. Her influence will forever remain in the hearts of those who were lucky enough to know her.
