The 20 Best Pittsburgh Foods To Try in 2024
If you have yet to explore the many enticing Pittsburgh foods, you are in for a real treat. The Steel City offers culinary options suited for every palate and price point. Some choices originated locally, while others drew inspiration from the Eastern Europeans who migrated here to work in the mills.
Are you hunting for a new restaurant insburgh? Has your standard weekend menu become mundane? Check out some of the finest Pittsburgh foods to discover your next favorite meal.
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20 Best Pittsburgh Foods
1. Pierogies at Pierogies Plus
Pierogies at Pierogies Plus are handmade stuffed dumplings that hold a place near and dear to many hearts across Steel City. This classic Pittsburgh food was initially brought to the region by Eastern European immigrants during the late 19th century. The portable and inexpensive yet filling dish quickly gained popularity with mill workers during the Industrial Age.
The Vibe
Pierogies Plus is a popular spot that serves authentic Polish cuisine, including a wide variety of pierogies. The simple storefront offers a no-frills vibe, friendly service, a take-out counter and a few small outdoor tables for on-site dining.
Why It’s Good
Pierogies Plus is a small business that has been open since the 1990s. During that time, it gained a reputation for serving famous Pittsburgh cuisine and authentic Polish dishes, including pierogies. Eastern European immigrants and Pittsburgh natives prepare the Pittsburgh food dishes. Several variations of pierogies are on the menu, the most popular being classic potato and cheese.
Pierogies Plus | 342 Island Ave., McKees Rocks, PA 15136 | $$
2. Pittsburgh Salad at North Park Lounge
Have you ever considered french fries as a topping on a salad? This choice is a staple in Pittsburgh. Taste it, and you will quickly understand why. This Pittsburgh food classic is called a steak salad on many menus. At the North Park Lounge, look for the grilled chicken salad.
The true origins of this dish are unknown, but it is highly customizable and consists of a bed of lettuce topped with tomatoes, beef steak or grilled chicken, cheese and crispy french fries. Try it with ranch dressing for an authentic flavor.
The Vibe
North Park Lounge is a great place to hang out and watch the game, with comfortable booths and many televisions. The ceiling is low and tiled, the walls have wood paneling and there is lots of colorful décor.
Why It’s Good
The service at North Park Lounge is quick and friendly, and locals call it a Pittsburgh must. While the menu is extensive, the grilled chicken salad, piled high with chicken, cheese and plenty of crispy fries, is a popular Pittsburgh food choice. Portions are plentiful as a main course or to share as an appetizer for two.
North Park Lounge | 8701 Babcock Blvd., Pittsburgh, PA 15237 | $$
3. Chocolate at Sarris Candies
Melt-in-your-mouth chocolate confections are a favorite treat for almost anyone, and nobody does them better than Sarris Candies. For over 50 years, Sarris has been known for its decadent chocolates, the highest standards for quality and impeccable customer service.
The idea was born in Frank Sarris’ basement, grew to a storefront in 1963 and is a chocolate empire today. A visit here is not to be missed if you are a fan of Pittsburgh foods that land on the sweet side.
The Vibe
A visit to Sarris is like stepping inside the game Candyland with décor that is busy in a fun way, detailed and eclectic. Vibrant-painted murals cover the walls, and gumdrop pink is the color of choice for the interior.
Why It’s Good
Sarris Candies is one of Pittsburgh’s original chocolatiers, and they have perfected the art of making Pittsburgh foods that are popular desserts. Their reputation for using only high-quality ingredients and following stringent standards is perhaps what makes them so good. A visit here is almost overwhelming because everything in the store looks fantastic. To sample it all, visit more than once, perhaps with the family or as a first date idea in Pittsburgh.
Sarris Candies | 511 Adams Ave., Canonsburg, PA 153172 | $$
4. Potato Patch Fries at Kennywood Park
An iconic Pittsburgh food, potato patch fries, is found at the city’s historic amusement park, Kennywood. Visiting the park is one of the most fun things to do in Pittsburgh, and many locals consider ordering a basket of these fries a must-do item.
Potato patch fries are piled high with gooey cheese and other toppings, including crisp bacon bits, vinegar or rich gravy. The dish is easy to carry as you walk around the park, and the nostalgic appeal makes it one of the top-pick Pittsburgh foods for your family-friendly day.
The Vibe
Kennywood Park is a famous amusement park. The atmosphere is lively, family-friendly and exciting, with rides and attractions.
Why It’s Good
Authentic potato patch fries are a Pittsburgh food that originated at Kennywood Park. The park has served them for years, and sharing an order is part of the nostalgic appeal of a visit here.
The signature fresh-cut fries are prepared daily from Idaho potatoes. Portion sizes are generous, making this one of the most popular Pittsburgh foods for sharing.
Kennywood Park | 4800 Kennywood Blvd., West Mifflin, PA 15122 | $$$
5. Hotcakes at Pamela’s Diner
Pamela’s Diner has served comfort and breakfast foods in Pittsburgh for over three decades. Their guest list is impressive and includes the likes of President Obama. Everyone talks about this restaurant, and locals often recommend it. Their hotcakes are said to be addictive.
The Vibe
Pamela’s is a no-frills establishment with a bright, airy, modern take on 1950s décor. It is a popular and often crowded spot to grab food in Pittsburgh, so plan to wait for a table.
Why It’s Good
Pamela’s crêpe-style hotcakes are exceptional. The light and fluffy center is perfectly complemented by a crispy edge, creating a unique texture sensation. Fill them with options including sweet brown sugar, juicy blueberries or crunchy walnuts to make the perfect Pittsburgh food choice for breakfast.
Pamela’s Diner | Multiple Locations | $$
6. Chipped Chopped Ham at Penn Mac
Established in 1902, Pennsylvania Macaroni Company, or as the locals call it, Penn Mac, is a well-known, modern Italian specialty store and Pittsburgh foods market. Three brothers turned the dream of owning an Italian food shop into reality. Today, Steel Town locals visit for the fresh Italian ingredients, impressive bakery and well-stocked deli where chipped chopped ham is a hit.
The Vibe
Penn Mac is a place that invites you to step back into history as you browse their selection of Pittsburgh foods and Italian delights. The floors and ceiling are original to the 1902 structure. Glass cases provide an inviting view of fresh loaves of bread, prime cuts of meats and Italian cheeses.
Why It’s Good
Isaly’s chipped chopped ham is thin-sliced daily at Penn Mac, making it difficult to find a fresher selection of this Pittsburgh food classic. The store also sells its famous barbecue sauce in mild and spicy varieties. No chipped chopped sandwich is complete without it.
Pennsylvania Macaroni Company | 2010-2012 Penn Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15222 | $$
7. A Pepperoni Roll From Jimmy & Nino Sunseri Co.
The Sunseri brothers are iconic in Pittsburgh and the owners of Penn Mac. Two brothers branched out to open Jimmy & Nino Sunseri Co. in the Strip District. This Italian food market has developed a reputation for selling the freshest bread in town and high-quality meats and cheese. However, what they are most famous for is their pepperoni rolls. Sunseri’s sells over 400 pepperoni rolls on a typical Saturday as locals and visitors form a line to order this Pittsburgh foods classic.
The Vibe
Sunseri is a hip, small deli on one side with an impressive display case and a little coffee shop on the other. The focus is on the food at this popular Pittsburgh foods counter, and the ambiance is unpretentious.
Why It’s Good
Sunseri pepperoni rolls are a Pittsburgh food classic. They consist of fresh, perfectly crunchy dough packed with spicy pepperoni and gooey cheese. The portions are plentiful, and the prices are reasonable. For added spice, order your pepperoni roll atomic style.
Jimmy & Nino Sunseri Co. | 1901 Penn Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15222 | $
8. Burgers at Tessaro’s
Every town has that iconic burger spot; Tessaro’s is that spot in Pittsburgh. Locals visit for fresh, never-frozen patties. They are hardwood grilled to perfection, and the scent of the burgers is said to waft down Liberty Avenue. This no-frills establishment has been in business for over 25 years, a testament to the quality and appeal of the Pittsburgh foods they serve.
The Vibe
Tessaro’s is your typical neighborhood bar, unpretentious and sticking closely to the original décor of the structure. The walls are brick, the floors are checkerboard patterned, and the bar spans most of the restaurant.
Why It’s Good
Burgers at Tessaro’s are great because they are reliable. In 25 years, Kelly Harrington’s recipe for success has not changed. He serves fresh-from-scratch burgers, hardwood grilled to perfection and delivered with melted cheese and the freshest toppings. The portions are plentiful. This is a Pittsburgh food choice worth trying and sharing.
Tessaro’s | 4601 Liberty Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15224 | $$
9. Moules et Frites at Point Brugge Café
Point Brugge Café opened in the Point Breeze neighborhood in 2005 and quickly became known as a popular gathering spot. The prices are reasonable, the portions are plentiful, and the mussels are the Pittsburgh food to try when you visit. The moules (French for mussels) are steamed fresh daily and perfectly paired with crispy fries.
The Vibe
Point Brugge is a small café, hipster-chic and pulling influences from Belgium. Mosaic tiles cover several tables, and twinkle lights adorn the banisters.
Why It’s Good
Finding great Belgian-inspired foods in Pittsburgh is challenging, but Point Brugge never misses the mark. Guests love the variety of fresh sauces in which the moules et frites are steamed. They range from classic white wine to red curry and paprika-infused romesco. Each dish includes a pound and a half of mussels served with a half pound of crispy fresh-cut fries, perfect for munching and dunking.
Point Brugge Café | 401 Hastings St., Pittsburgh, PA 15206 | $$
10. Tako Taco at täkō
Asian-Mexican fusion is on the menu at täkō. The restaurant creates delightful and unique versions of street food. Established in 2015, täkō restaurant has earned a reputation as a high-end Downtown Pittsburgh foods hot spot with a fantastic vibe and creative menu.
They are most famous for their Tako taco, a Japanese-Mexican fusion taco topped with tender octopus.
The Vibe
This spot is dark and moody, with deep red lighting inside and a Bohemian island feel in the outdoor dining space. Funky octopus murals cover the walls, and large chandeliers adorn the ceiling.
Why It’s Good
The word tako translates to octopus in Japanese, and at täkō, they sous vide the octopus before grilling it and using it as a topping for the taco. This cooking style creates a soft and delicate texture that is unexpected for octopus and is a rich flavor combination. While not your typical Pittsburgh food choice, the tacos are intriguing and worth trying.
täkō | 214 Sixth St., Pittsburgh, PA 15222 | $$$
11. Mac and Cheese at Kelly’s Bar and Lounge
A long-standing East Liberty favorite, Kelly’s Bar and Lounge is known for its great Pittsburgh food and inviting atmosphere. A favorite among many locals is the mac and cheese. The smaller establishment has a neighborhood vibe, and locals have been coming here for years.
The Vibe
Kelly’s Bar and Lounge is your typical neighborhood bar with a 1920s vibe, a dimly lit interior and a small outdoor patio area. The servers always have a smile to offer, and strangers quickly become friends, so it is very inviting.
Why It’s Good
The mac and cheese here is excellent and baked fresh when ordered. Plan to wait about 20 minutes for the dish to leave the kitchen. Expect a slight char on top, a smoky taste and a nice crunch. This one is a favorite Pittsburgh food for locals.
Kelly’s Bar and Lounge | 6012 Penn Cir. S., Pittsburgh, PA 15206 | $$
12. Homemade Tortilla Chips at The Burgh Bites Truck
The Burgh Bites Truck delivers excellent food in Pittsburgh and nearby neighborhoods. Today, what started as a hot dog stand travels for events and to various lunch spots. Their friendly faces are familiar to many, and they serve plenty of Pittsburgh foods, including salads, sandwiches, pasta, tots and torts.
The Vibe
Burgh Bites is a walk-up food truck exclusively offering takeout foods and on-site cooking for local events. You will always find smiling faces behind the ordering and pick-up window.
Why It’s Good
The tortilla chips, or torts, are fresh and crispy and served with a helping of homemade mango or corn salsa. Order this Pittsburgh food favorite loaded with chili, braised pork shoulder, shredded chicken or vegetables. Tortilla chips are ideal for sharing as an appetizer or enjoying as your main course.
Burgh Bites | Traveling Food Truck, Pittsburgh, PA | $$
13. Pastrami at Haskel’s Delicatessen
Haskel’s Delicatessen is a popular Jewish deli on wheels. They serve some of the finest Pittsburgh foods daily, including homemade sandwiches, potato and cheese latkes and crispy pickle spears. The smoked pastrami is melt-in-your-mouth delicious.
The Vibe
You can expect friendly, fast service from this popular Pittsburgh food truck. It is a simple, nondescript blue truck with two ordering and pick-up windows.
Why It’s Good
The pastrami from Haskel’s is fresh-sliced daily, and the texture is perfect. The portions are generous, and the meat is tender, juicy and flavorful.
Haskel’s Delicatassen | Traveling Food Truck, Pittsburgh, PA 15224 | $$
14. Boxty at Piper’s Pub
Piper’s Pub brings a taste of the British Isles to the Pittsburgh food scene. This popular establishment is known for its wide selection of beers and British classics like boxty, fish and chips and shepherd’s pie.
The Vibe
Step into Piper’s Pub and transport yourself to a typical British pub. The ceilings are low, the bar is the focal point, and the lighting is dim. It is a lively establishment, and you will often find soccer games playing on the televisions.
Why It’s Good
Boxty is a traditional Irish potato pancake and a popular Pittsburgh food. Piper’s Pub prepares theirs fresh and packs it full of sausage, ham, egg and cheese. There is also a rotating list of special boxty, unique to the pub. Options include fried chicken, rib eye and brisket.
Piper’s Pub | 1828 E. Carson St., Pittsburgh, PA 15203 | $$
15. Coconut Pie at Grant Bar Inc.
A Pittsburgh food favorite since the 1930s, Grant Bar Inc. serves family-friendly food at budget-friendly prices. They are famous for their homemade pies and were featured on the PBS special “A Few Good Pie Places.”
The Vibe
Grant Bar’s ambiance reminds visitors of an Alpine ski lodge with a German flair. A large bar greets you as you enter, antlers adorn the walls, and the dining room is simple but spacious.
Why It’s Good
Grant Bar’s famous Pittsburgh food choice is their coconut cream pie, prepared and baked fresh daily. The pie includes a healthy serving of fluffy whipped cream topped with crunchy coconut flakes. People drive for miles to taste this pie, so arrive early to get a slice.
Grant Bar Inc. | 114 Grant Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15209 | $$
16. Haluski at S&D Polish Deli
Since 2008, S&D Polish Deli has provided the Strip District of Pittsburgh’s food scene with quality meats, snacks and Middle Eastern and Polish culinary classics. Guests can purchase refrigerated or warm meals from the friendly and knowledgeable staff at the takeout counter.
The Vibe
The deli is your typical neighborhood grocery store with shelves filled with pantry-staple foods and a large deli case of fresh, iconic Pittsburgh foods. There are a few small wooden tables for dining in.
Why It’s Good
The haluski, thick egg noodles with onions and cabbage, is prepared fresh daily at S&D Polish Deli. The noodles are buttery, soft, warm and accentuated with a proprietary blend of herbs and spices. The generous portion makes this a popular Pittsburgh food pick for guests who love authentic Eastern European cuisine.
S&D Polish Deli | 2204 Penn Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15222 | $$
17. Kielbasa at Parma Sausage Products
Established in 1954, Parma Sausage Products is a small family business specializing in producing quality Italian pork products. Their storefront is located in the Strip District of Pittsburgh and makes all the Pittsburgh food products they sell on-site.
The Vibe
Parma Sausage is a cute little Strip District shop reminiscent of an old-fashioned butcher shop. The meat case spans most of the shop, and the staff are friendly and knowledgeable.
Why It’s Good
The kielbasa at Parma Sausage Products is firm, full-bodied and smoked on juniper wood. They use a family recipe passed down for generations, making this a popular Pittsburgh food choice.
Parma Sausage | 1734 Penn Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15222 | $$
18. Gobblerito at Mad Mex
Mad Mex calls themselves “funky, fresh, Cal and Mex.” They have been a Pittsburgh food scene favorite since they opened their doors in the early ‘90s. Their seasonal burritos, including the Gobblerito, are especially popular and pair well with their fresh margaritas.
The Vibe
Mad Mex has mood lighting and is unapologetically loud and visually striking. The décor is vibrant, a fun contrast to the earthy wooden architectural features.
Why It’s Good
The Gobblerito is Thanksgiving comfort food at its finest. The popular Pittsburgh food includes fresh roasted turkey, black bean mashed potatoes, stuffing and corn wrapped in a fresh tortilla. Sweet and tart cranberry sauce makes the perfect complement to this Pittsburgh food favorite.
Mad Mex | Multiple Locations | $$
19. Burnt Almond Torte at Prantl’s Bakery
Prantl’s Bakery has long been a tradition in Pittsburgh. Their burnt almond torte is popular at this favorite Pittsburgh food bakery, named by the Huffington Post as the “Best Cake in America.” The Wall Street Journal and Food Network have also praised this Pittsburgh culinary scene hot spot. Prantl’s serves over 100 French pastries, baked fresh daily, following family recipes.
The Vibe
Prantl’s is your typical French bakery with impressive glass cases that contain over a hundred popular pastries. The staff are knowledgeable and create a welcoming environment.
Why It’s Good
The burnt almond torte is creamy and flaky with a crunchy almond coating. Every bite of this Pittsburgh food favorite is pure bliss. Order yours up to two days in advance to ensure you don’t miss out.
Prantl’s Bakery | Multiple Locations | $
20. Raw Pizza at Beto’s Pizza
Established in 1953, Beto’s Pizza is the spot on the Pittsburgh food scene for fresh subs, pizzas, salads and sides. This place is a bit different than your typical pizza parlor because they cook the pizza crust and sauce first and then add the ingredients — hence, the raw pizza title.
The Vibe
The vibe here is your typical local modern pizza joint. Booths and tables fill the dining room, and plenty of Pittsburgh and Pennsylvania memorabilia are on the walls.
Why It’s Good
Beto’s raw pizza is a Pittsburgh food with that crispy and airy crust that people love but with a flavor infusion on top. Instead of baking all ingredients into the pizza, meats, unbaked cheeses and vegetables are placed on top. The cold cheese perfectly complements the warm sauce. The raw ingredients make for an exciting flavor and texture sensation.
Beto’s Pizza | 1473 Banksville Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15216 | $
Try Cooking Iconic Pittsburgh Foods
One of the most exciting ways to discover iconic Pittsburgh food is by learning to prepare it. Cooking classes in Pittsburgh guide you through the essential steps for creating delicious local cuisine at home. Each interactive class, led by a top chef, teaches you to pick the best local ingredients for your favorite Pittsburgh cuisine and prepare each dish like a pro.
Join 200,000+ Culinary Enthusiasts
The list of Pittsburgh foods includes options to please every palate. From sweet to savory cuisine and simple to eclectic hot spots, check out the city's many flavors and inviting atmospheres in locally owned restaurants.
Whether you have lived in Steel City for years or are a more recent transplant, take some time to act like a foodie and try some of these fabulous options. Your taste buds are sure to thank you!
For even more ways to explore Pittsburgh and beyond, check out other experiences happening on Cozymeal.
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