Fall for Al Fresco: The Best Outdoor Dining Spots in Pittsburgh to Savor Autumn
Written by John Valentine
Enjoy dining outdoors? With summer winding down don't fret. There are still many options to eat outdoors in the fall. Al fresco dining in the fall can still include a meal in one of Pittsburgh’s sunniest spots. Bring along the pooch if you like.
Worried because it might get cold? Worry no more. Some establishments offer thoughtful outdoor setups – including glass-enclosed chalets and roomy patio umbrellas, street-side picnic tables and heat lamps – along with delightful menu options to entice your appetite.
Alihan's Mediterranean Cuisine
When the weather gets cold this restaurant warms things up by enclosing their space with clear covering and heaters. Enjoy some of the best Turkish food anywhere as you dine in Pittsburgh but feel like you're in the Mediterranean.
Summer is already here in this Liberty Avenue restaurant space, home to a garden’s worth of faux floral arrangements. With fresh-made Korean-inspired fare and quaint-yet-trendy décor, this fast-casual eatery is located across the street from the August Wilson African American Cultural Center. . Outdoor seating is nearly as ample as indoors, thanks to tables on the sidewalk and in the glass-enclosed chalet on the street.
This rooftop on the 9th floor of the hotel Kimpton Hotel Monaco is popular with hotel guests and locals alike on Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings. A large open-air area is first come, first served, though tables can be reserved. Plenty of European-inspired eats abound–house-made currywurst, giant pretzels, tasty pickle and cheese plates – though visitors may be drawn to the large and varied list of beers from Belgian Trappist ales to German favorites. When the warm weather inspires playful vibes, it’s worth the elevator ride because a jumbo Jenga and Giant Connect Four await.
This Market Square sports-bar-turned-gastropub offers an expansive view of the downtown scene from PPG Place. The canopy on the veranda ensures visitors can gather despite rain or winds. Make sure to check out the happy hour specials, then settle in to watch your favorite team playing on one of the 15 TVs.
With a front-row view of the hustle and bustle of Sixth Street, the downtown location opened in 2020 and offers a wood-fired grill, patio courtyard and rooftop dining area, both with heaters to keep you warm while you dine outdoors. Gaucho’s substantial meat-forward menu includes steaks with chimichurri, chef’s selection of fresh seafood, and even a handful of vegetarian options.
Cozy up at one of the long high-top tables under the twinkling lights at this memorable rooftop beer garden in the Cultural District. The retractable glass roof makes Il Tetto a destination for winter fun too, but the crowd really swells during the spring and summer season. The menu includes options such as homemade pork rinds and Buffalo chicken dip.
Want to eat a hearty meal but still dine outside? Enjoy chicken wings, a burger, or any of the other great offerings from this downtown treasure outdoors or inside. Of course if you eat inside you get the option of watching one the 20 televisions Redbeards offers.
A beautiful blending of flavors – Mexican and Japanese – give visitors an exciting, unique experience on 6th Street at täkō. Fresh ingredients and a commitment to supporting local farmers and producers allow chefs to create innovative meals that are sure to delight. Providing an immersive experience, täkō is not only for those seeking culinary excellence, but also terrific libations with their unmatched selection of tequila and mezcal.
