Michael Troiani, Papa J’s Owner, Reactivates Strip District, Downtown
By Nick Razum
Old roots tie Michael Troiani to the region. In 1913, his grandfather arrived in the city, moving into a house on Crawford Street in the Hill District. Michael’s father, Julius, was the youngest boy of twelve children. They would walk to the markets in the Strip District, buy produce and sell it around the city. The family history gives Michael plenty of reason to stay in the area and help activate spaces in the city.
Photo courtesy Michael Troiani
Papa J’s, open on Smallman Street in the Strip District, is an example of Troiani’s commitment to making the old parts of Pittsburgh speak to the new. An open kitchen restaurant with a bar and dining room, Papa J’s is a favorite amongst city dwellers and commuters. The gelato is made from scratch with natural ingredients used to make the assortment of flavors.Try the Roman style pizza. The margherita pizza with a tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella, basil and olive oil is a delicious classic. The “incredible white” pizza with spinach, feta and roasted garlic butter is another delectable choice.
Patrons enjoy pizza and beverages at the bar. Photo by Nick Razum
“When you have twelve kids at the table, you have to have a strategy in feeding them,” said Troiani. “The way we cook here is the way my family cooks at home. And, we offer that to the public.” Italian fare, pizza and gelato will fill any stomach to satisfaction. Stop in for lunch, dinner or a to-go slice. Wth so many great things to eat, a return visit will be on your must do list to try something you didn’t have the first time.
Photo courtesy Michael Troiani
Troiani is excited about the new development of bocce courts coming downtown on Market Street and First Avenue. “Bocce is a cause for assembly!” said Troiani. Creating a recreational space at the location is a great way to have people interacting, revitalizing the area and making it livelier.
Troiani feels proud to be part of the effort to revitalize downtown and surrounding areas of the city. “I love this city! I remember being a kid, going down to Kaufman’s and looking at the windows after going sled riding in the snowfall in December.” Having grown up in the city, Troiani is committed to making the city a lively destination for the people of the region.
Open kitchen. Photo by Nick Razum
