Pittsburgh, PA, is a vibrant city bursting with culinary delights. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a local foodie, Steel City offers an array of flavors that cater to every palate. In this guide, I’ll take you on a tour of must-visit restaurants that capture the essence of Pittsburgh’s diverse dining scene. Get ready to savor the best eats in town at these 12 places for delicious dining in Pittsburgh.
Tasty Restaurants List
Kelly O’s
Head to Kelly O’s Diner for a hearty breakfast that will wow your taste buds. This spot offers classic American comfort food and is known for its fluffy omelets and delectable biscuits & gravy. Their homemade biscuits are a stand out—soft, buttery, and perfect for soaking up every last drop of delicious sausage gravy.
Whether you’re starting your day or indulging in a late brunch, Kelly O’s delivers a satisfying meal every time. Be prepared to wait; this Pittsburgh hotspot is also suggested by Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives.
Walter’s BBQ Southern Kitchen
Walter’s BBQ is your go-to spot if you crave succulent meats and Southern comfort food. Their pulled pork and brisket are slow-cooked to perfection, offering rich, smoky flavors that melt in your mouth.
Take advantage of their creamy mac & cheese or the buttery cornbread, which was as good as any Southern variety I’ve had. The collard greens are a must-try, balancing the hearty meat dishes with a touch of freshness.
Walter’s BBQ is incredibly dog-friendly, with an excellent outdoor patio and picnic tables, making it a perfect place to relax with your furry friend.
For more things to do in Pittsburgh, check out this post that includes museums, the National Aviary, and much more.
The Melting Pot
For those who enjoy a bit of theatrical dining, The Melting Pot offers an unforgettable fondue experience. Start with their classic alpine cheese (Gruyère, raclette, fontina) fondue before moving on to the meat lover’s platter. The highlight, however, is the Yin & Yang dessert fondue, a decadent mix of white and dark chocolate artfully swirled in the pot.
Perfect for a romantic evening or a special celebration, The Melting Pot turns dining into a memorable experience. My family should be the president of the Melting Pot fan club; we love it so much.
Primanti Bros
No visit to Pittsburgh is complete without a trip to Primanti Bros., a local institution famous for its gourmet sandwiches. What sets their sandwiches apart? It’s the thick white bread, vinegar slaw, and a heaping pile of French fries right between the meat and bread.
This unique twist makes their sandwiches a flavorful, filling meal that’s quintessentially Pittsburgh.
Whether grabbing a quick lunch or enjoying a casual dinner, Primanti Bros. offers a taste of the city’s culinary heritage. This restaurant has been going strong since 1933, quite an accomplishment.
Burgatory
If you’re in the mood for an indulgent treat, Burgatory is the place to be. Their burgers are legendary, offering a variety of mouth-watering options that are sure to satisfy. But what really sets Burgatory apart are their boozy hand-spun milkshakes, which perfectly complement their savory burgers. And don’t forget the sea salt and herb fries.
With flavors ranging from classic vanilla to more adventurous concoctions (Choco’s Tacos is my fave!), these shakes are a must-try. Burgatory promises a dining experience that’s both delicious and fun.
Meat and Potatoes
Part of the DeShantz restaurant group, Meat and Potatoes offers a refined yet approachable menu. Begin your meal with the Parker House rolls, served warm with butter and jam. The wagyu carpaccio is an excellent starter at dinner, while the double-cut pork chop or filet mignon are standout main courses.
This restaurant combines traditional comfort food with a touch of elegance, making it a must-visit for any food enthusiast.
Gepetto Cafe
Gepetto Cafe is a small yet popular eatery that captivates with its eclectic menu. One standout dish is the Love Hate Thing, a delightful mix of turkey, avocado, béchamel, and goat cheese, which I chose for brunch.
Gepetto Cafe also serves sweet and savory crepes, as well as fluffy waffles. If you like a great coffee drink, they have Turkish coffee, a real specialty.
Due to this restaurant’s popularity, it’s best to join their waitlist online to secure a table. Whether you’re in the mood for challah French toast or a savory breakfast crepe, Gepetto Cafe has something to delight every diner.
Pamela’s Diner
Pamela’s Diner has been a staple in Pittsburgh since 1980, known for its nostalgic charm and hearty breakfasts. With three locations, the Strip District is a favorite among locals. Their standout dish is Gail’s Favorite Eggs—lightly scrambled eggs topped with cream cheese and scallions (brilliant), served with Lyonnaise potatoes (be still my beating heart) and toast.
No matter what breakfast you choose, hot cakes, waffles, French toast, or one of the other desirable menu creations, Pamela’s Diner guarantees a fulfilling start to your day.
Condado Tacos
At Condado Tacos, the dining experience is not just about the food, it’s about the fun of customizing your taco bowls with a variety of fresh ingredients and bold flavors. The casual atmosphere and tasty offerings make it a perfect spot for a laid-back meal with friends or family, where everyone can create their own unique culinary masterpiece.
Start with their house horchata, 3 Buds half-size dips or salsas, and homemade chips. Strawberry Fields guac is a great choice if you wish to try something trendy and tasty, but the street corn, blanco queso, and tomatillo salsa satisfied all our needs.
This lively and energetic eatery is so much fun that you may want to eat here daily. We loved everything we tried, and the customer service was primo.
Hofbräuhaus
Hofbräuhaus Pittsburgh transports you to Germany with its authentic Bavarian fare. Mull over the menu as you munch on the potato pancakes, served with applesauce and sour cream.
If you can’t decide between sausages and schnitzel, try the Hofbräuhaus Hot Brown—a unique dish featuring smoked turkey breast and Black Forest ham on a potato pancake, topped with Swiss and bier cheese, tomatoes, smoked bacon, and Parmesan.
Pair your meal with one of their signature beers for a truly immersive experience. Bavarian-style pierogis are another tasty option.
William Penn Tavern
Located in the heart of Pittsburgh, William Penn Tavern is a sports bar restaurant that’s super casual and fun, plus the food is affordable. Need suggestions for what to order? The South Jersey cheesesteak, filled to the brim with tender meat and melted cheese, was most excellent and filling.
They also have great bar food, like wings, offering the perfect spice. Fries make the perfect accompaniment, and the selection of good, cold beer will delight. Whether catching a game or hanging out with friends, William Penn Tavern provides a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
Waffles Incaffeinated
Waffles Incaffeinated offers a creative twist on a breakfast classic. Whether you prefer sweet or savory, there’s a waffle here for you. The Bananas Foster waffle will satisfy your sweet cravings, while the classic eggs Benedict (or Crabcake) over a waffle are excellent savory choices.
Try the Funky Monkey with fudge sauce, peanut butter chiffon, and chocolate chips for something truly indulgent. Each bite at Waffles Incaffeinated is a delightful adventure and provokes a mmm mmm good response. I’m channeling Campbell Soups right there.
Discover Pittsburgh’s Culinary Delights
Pittsburgh’s diverse dining scene offers a culinary adventure that’s hard to beat. From hearty breakfasts and gourmet sandwiches to indulgent desserts and international flavors, there’s something to satisfy every craving. Exploring these 12 restaurants will give you a true taste of the city’s rich culinary heritage.