The Commoner, a modern American gastropub adjacent to Hotel Monaco in the heart of downtown Pittsburgh, announced that Wyatt Lash will be its new executive chef effective February 15. With his position at the helm of the kitchen, Lash rolls out a new menu offering seasonal updates to the restaurant’s sophisticated versions of pub classics. 

A Lancaster County native who has been a part of the culinary team since The Commoner opened in January 2015, Lash understands the restaurant’s ties to the city through both its approachable style and lively vibe. He puts his stamp on that experience now with such dishes as Steak and Ale, a play on classic English comfort food, and will debut a fully reworked menu this spring.

“Since day one, The Commoner has been all about enhancing Pittsburgh’s already distinctive culinary culture with creative home-style food and drink in a sociable setting,” Lash explains. “I look forward to guiding that vision and continuing to bring both locals and visitors an energetic all-day spot with a menu to match.”

Another change on the horizon for the restaurant is a refresh in its adjoining carryout offering on Strawberry Way, The Commoner Corner, which will undergo a redesign and menu overhaul later this season. Expect to see a marketplace-style selection of items available through a takeout window, including sandwiches, salads, pre-made meals, smoked meats, handmade breads and pastries, and treats for your pet, all designed by Lash and his team.  

Prior to his work at The Commoner, Lash served as executive chef at The Whip Tavern in Coatesville, Pennsylvania, from 2006 to 2014. He received his certificate of baking and pastry arts from the Lancaster Career and Technology Center in 2004. Born and raised in Lancaster County, he currently lives rural Western Pennsylvania.