Pittsburgh's rightfully earned a reputation as a foodie town. Whatever you're craving, you're sure to find at one of the many restaurants in Pittsburgh. But, some of the restaurants just seem to define the city and Pittsburghers themselves, wouldn't you say? Here are nine irresistible restaurants that define Pittsburgh.
1. Altius – 1230 Grandview Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15211
Drink in spectacular sweeping views of the downtown Pittsburgh skyline from your table at Altius. The fine dining restaurant atop Mount Washington features an eclectic menu. Order such scrumptious dishes as Ora King Salmon, Cauliflower Steak, and Colossal Crab Ravioli. Altius welcomes diners Monday through Thursday from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m., and Sunday from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.
2. Grand Concourse – 100 West Station Square Drive, Pittsburgh, PA 15219
Enjoy magnificent views of downtown Pittsburgh - from ground level - at the Grand Concourse. Formerly a majestic train station, the Grand Concourse boasts a menu of scallops, crab cakes, slow roasted prime rib, and filet mignon. The Grand Concourse is open Monday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., and Sunday from 3:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday Brunch is served from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
3. The Original Oyster House – 20 Market Square, Pittsburgh, PA 15222
Experience a meal and a drink at the oldest restaurant and bar in Pittsburgh. The Original Oyster House, nestled in Market Square, is known for its famous huge fish sandwich. (Think so big the fish spills off of the bun.) Order a fish sandwich and fries. Or, opt for the fish boat, Maryland-style crab cakes, or a shrimp basket. Stop by The Original Oyster House Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
4. Joseph Tambellini Restaurant – 5701 Bryant Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15206
Indulge in a delicious, homemade Italian meal at Joseph Tambellini Restaurant. The quaint restaurant features a scrumptious menu with such appetizers as Tambellini's famous fried zucchini, stuffed banana peppers, and signature meatballs. Dinner entrees include handmade cheese ravioli, chicken Marsala, and grilled New York strip steak. Joseph Tambellini Restaurant begins serving dinner at 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday.
5. Butcher & The Rye – 212 6th Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15222
Dine by the light of an oil lantern or by candlelight, depending on which sits on your table, at the Butcher and the Rye. Kick off your meal with a bowl of charred broccoli soup and rustic sourdough bread. Or, order an entree, such as the roasted chicken, scallops, or pan-seared rainbow trout. Butcher and the Rye welcomes guests from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday and from 5 p.m. to midnight on Friday and Saturday.
6. DeLuca’s Diner – 2015 Penn Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15222
Known for its famous breakfast, DeLuca's Diner has been a Pittsburgh favorite since 1950. Of course, the diner boasts a full array of breakfast dishes, including pancakes, French toast, omelettes, and burritos. Or, opt for a popular lunch entree, such as the cheeseburger platter, the BLT, or the chicken basket. DeLuca's Diner is open Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.
7. Penn Avenue Fish Company – 2208 Penn Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15222
It's all about fresh fish at Penn Avenue Fish Company. Treat yourself to a classic fish sandwich like the swordfish, the North Atlantic Salmon, or the English-style cod. Other popular items include the fish tacos, crab cake sliders, and mussels. Visit Penn Avenue Fish Company Monday and Tuesday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Wednesday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Saturday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday's hours run from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
8. Piccolo Forno – 3801 Butler Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15201
Indulge in "Rustic Italian Faire" at the charming Piccolo Forno. Bring Your Own Beer (BYOB) to pair with pizza, lasagna, tortelli, or spinach-filled ravioli. Then, cap off your meal with a delicious dessert: tiramisu, gelato, or sorbet. Piccolo Forno welcomes diners Tuesday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.
9. Meat and Potatoes – 649 Penn Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15222
A hearty meal awaits at Meat and Potatoes. Start your meal with a delightfully delicious appetizer such as fried pickles, grilled bread, or poutine with gravy. Dig into a hearty steak for two for the entree. Or, order from a plethora of entrees, including pot roast, roast chicken, or salmon. Meat and Potatoes is open Monday through Thursday from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 5 p.m. to midnight, and Sunday from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday and Sunday brunch runs from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Reservations are encouraged.
Your turn! Add to this list of restaurants that define Pittsburgh. Which other restaurants would you add to the list? Join the conversation below. Then, click here to read about eight of the best small restaurants in Pittsburgh.
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