Pittsburgh, a city once known for its industrial might, has transformed into a culinary haven, offering an eclectic mix of dining experiences that cater to every palate. From the heights of fine dining to the comfort of local eateries, the city’s food scene is as diverse as its heritage. This post explores the 10 best restaurants in Pittsburgh, taking you on a delicious journey through the city’s most memorable kitchens.
Superior Motors
Nestled in the historic town of Braddock, Superior Motors is a testament to Pittsburgh’s resilience and innovation. This restaurant, born from a Kickstarter campaign, emphasizes community and sustainability, serving dishes that are both inventive and deeply rooted in Pennsylvania’s agricultural bounty. The ever-evolving menu reflects the seasons, ensuring a unique dining experience with each visit.
Moonlit Burgers
Moonlit Burgers has quickly become a must-visit spot in Pittsburgh for burger enthusiasts seeking something beyond the ordinary. This establishment prides itself on crafting innovative and irresistibly delicious burgers using high-quality, locally sourced ingredients. What sets Moonlit Burgers apart is not just the quality of its offerings but also the creativity infused into each burger, making every bite a unique culinary adventure.
Primanti Bros.
No visit to Pittsburgh is complete without a meal at Primanti Bros., a local institution famous for its sandwiches. Stacked high with meat, coleslaw, tomato and french fries, all between two slices of Italian bread, these sandwiches embody the spirit of Pittsburgh: unpretentious, hearty and utterly satisfying.
Apteka
Apteka brings a fresh perspective to Pittsburgh’s dining scene with its focus on Central and Eastern European vegan cuisine. The restaurant’s innovative approach to plant-based dishes results in both comforting and surprising flavors, offering a delightful experience for vegetarians and meat-eaters alike.
Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens
You wouldn’t think to find an incredible restaurant at a botanical garden, but nestled within the lush greenery of one of Pittsburgh’s most treasured attractions, the dining options at Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens offer visitors a unique, plant-based culinary experience that aligns with the institution’s commitment to sustainability and wellness. The café at Phipps is renowned for its dedication to providing a diverse array of vegan and vegetarian options that are as nourishing as they are delicious. The café ensures that every dish is fresh, seasonal and environmentally conscious by sourcing ingredients from local farms and its own edible gardens.
Some of the best vegetarian and vegan food I’ve had in Pittsburgh was in the most unexpected location: Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, located in Schenley Park in Oakland near the University of Pittsburgh and Carnegie Mellon University. Primarily, it’s grab-and-go sandwiches and salads, but you’ll want to stay and enjoy it because they’re so delicious.
— Leah Ingram, Real Sophisticated Consumer
Gaucho Parrilla Argentina
Tucked away in the Strip District, Gaucho Parrilla Argentina offers a slice of South American cuisine with its wood-fired meats and bold flavors. This no-frills establishment prioritizes quality and taste, making it a beloved spot among locals and a must-visit for those seeking an authentic Argentine experience.
Everyday Noodles
Everyday Noodles, right in the heart of Pittsburgh, stands as a testament to the authenticity and complexity of Chinese cuisine. This restaurant specializes in hand-pulled noodles, offering diners a rare opportunity to witness the artistry of noodle-making in action through an open kitchen. The menu is a vibrant showcase of traditional Chinese dishes, from succulent dumplings to rich, flavorful soups, all centered around their signature noodles.
DiAnoia’s Eatery
DiAnoia’s Eatery is a beloved jewel in Pittsburgh’s dining scene, offering a warm embrace of Italian hospitality and cuisine. This eatery seamlessly blends the charm of a traditional Italian trattoria with the dynamism of a modern café, delivering an authentic dining experience that resonates with every visitor. From homemade pasta and freshly baked bread to exquisite espresso and delectable pastries, DiAnoia’s provides a feast for the senses. The restaurant’s dedication to authenticity extends to its carefully curated wine list and inventive cocktails designed to complement the incredible dishes.
Altius
Perched atop Mount Washington, Altius offers more than just a meal; it provides a dining experience with a breathtaking view of Pittsburgh’s skyline. The menu, crafted with precision, showcases elevated American cuisine, featuring the finest locally sourced ingredients. A visit here, at one of the top restaurants in Pittsburgh, is not just about the food but the ambiance and the panoramic city views that come with it.
Salem’s Market & Grill
For an authentic taste of the Middle East in the heart of Pittsburgh, Salem’s Market & Grill stands out. This combination of market and restaurant serves up traditional dishes that transport diners to distant lands, with flavors as rich and varied as the culture itself. From succulent kebabs to flavorful curries, and hummus bowls to veggie platters, Salem’s offers a genuine experience in every bite.
It’s clear that Steel City’s dining scene is as rich and diverse as the cultural tapestry that defines it. In Pittsburgh, every meal is an opportunity to explore new flavors, cultures, and ideas. It’s a city where food is not just sustenance but a form of communication, a way to connect and share in the richness of what the world has to offer. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor, the best restaurants in Pittsburgh promise not just a meal but an experience — a chance to savor the city’s unique blend of history, culture and innovation, one bite at a time.
Shruthi Baskaran-Makanju is a food and travel writer and a global food systems expert based in Seattle. She has lived in or traveled extensively to over 60 countries, and shares stories and recipes inspired by those travels on Rainy City Life.