10 Unique Eats in Downtown Pittsburgh
By Kaitlin Shields
Not only well known for its famous bridges and thriving Cultural District packed with theaters and art galleries, but Downtown Pittsburgh also has an array of eateries with a range of cuisines that catch the attention of foodies throughout the country. Here are 10 restaurants to consider when searching the streets of Downtown Pittsburgh for a mouth-watering meal.
Let’s taco-bout one of downtown Pittsburgh’s hottest spots for all things tacos, tequila, and margaritas. Tako, located on 6th Street, combines Japanese and Mexican cuisines set in a dark and moody vibe. Their menu includes a variety of taco and snack options followed by a hefty selection of tequilas and mezcals.
With three stories of different Italian dining, Sienna Mercato adds a unique experience and a taste of Italy to the Cultural District in downtown Pittsburgh. The first level of the restaurant, Emporio, specializes in meatballs and other snacky items made fresh daily. The second-floor mezzo showcases its wine bar and vast menu of classic and innovative Italian dishes, including pasta, pizza, and charcuterie boards. Il Tetto, Sienna Mercato’s third floor, is home to their rooftop beer garden featuring 32 draft beers, cocktails, wine, and tasty appetizers.
Featuring Neapolitan Cuisine, Pizzaiolo Primo is located in the heart of Market Square in downtown Pittsburgh. Upon arrival, you are given the option to dine on their first or second floors in their relaxing European atmosphere. Their menu consists of classic dishes like Burrata, Penne Vodka, and Chicken Caprese to quench your thirst for an authentic Italian meal.
Also located in Market Square, City Works is the place to eat when you don’t know what you are in the mood for. Their menu includes a combination of bar food, gourmet burgers and sandwiches, tacos, and a variety of entrees that will leave you questioning which flavor route you want to take. As if decisions weren’t hard enough, they offer 90 craft beers on tap, with 30 of them dedicated to local breweries. This classy yet upbeat bar and restaurant will fulfill whatever hunger and thirst need you have.
For all things burgers and beer, August Henry’s Burger Bar bring its own unique twist to specialty burgers, hot dogs, and sandwiches. Their full-service bar provides quality cocktails, beer, wine and a happy hour you cannot beat. Located on Penn Ave, this local bar and restaurant is the perfect place to make your go-to spot.
Bae Bae’s Kitchen is the place to eat when craving an authentic, Korean-inspired meal. Focusing on local, organic, and healthy ingredients, Bae Bae’s Kitchen treats its customers like family and provides them with the most delicious and nutritious meals. This aesthetically pleasing eatery is located on Liberty Avenue and is decorated with hanging plants and vines. Bae Bae’s Kitchen is a great place for veggie lovers and even vegans looking to experience a taste of Korea.
Specializing in fresh chicken and lemon beef mix doners and homemade baklava, Sultan Doner Gyro brings a taste of Turkey to downtown Pittsburgh. Their donors are made from scratch with meat marinated for three days. Located on 6th Street, Sultan Doner Gyro serves Turkish and Mediterranean cuisine.
3 Rivers Restaurant and Lounge
Tucked away in the Wyndham Grand, 3 Rivers Restaurant and Lounge is a clean and modern spot to enjoy a delectable meal in a convenient location. Depending on the time of day, you have a selection of three menus, breakfast, lunch and dinner, add to that a connecting lounge. The lounge has a wide variety of craft beers, wines, and signature cocktails and spirits to satisfy your thirst.
This tasty Thai restaurant located in the heart of downtown Pittsburgh includes a menu full of authentic recipes from Thailand with a modern twist. From different colored curries to various types of soups and rice, and their most popular dishes like Pad Thai and Pad See Ew, Siam Thai Restaurant will blow you away with their desirable menu.
Just like the name, this newly founded restaurant on Penn Avenue has a standard menu with something for everyone. With delicious flatbreads, salads, burgers and more, The Standard provides a range of tastes in a modern and fun aesthetic. Whether you’re looking for mimosas paired with freshly cooked brunch or a specialty cocktail to chase your entree with, The Standard has it all.
Pittsburgh has everything from homemade Turkish baklava to authentic Italian pasta dishes. With a diverse selection of cultures, cuisines, and tastes, Downtown Pittsburgh offers numerous spots to enjoy the flavors you are craving. These 10 restaurants will leave you satisfied and questioning which place to try next.
