Introduction
Craving a late-night snack with your friends after a long day, or searching for the perfect accompaniment to that craft beer? Pittsburgh’s bar scene is legendary, but it’s not just about the drinks. The city’s bars and pubs are quietly revolutionizing their food offerings, making it a foodie destination in its own right. Forget greasy, uninspired snacks; Pittsburgh’s bars now dish out everything from elevated pub fare to creative gastropub innovations that rival many restaurants. From classic pierogies to gourmet burgers, there’s something to satisfy every palate. This guide dives deep into the city’s best watering holes, highlighting the places where you can find genuinely exceptional best bar food Pittsburgh has to offer. We’ll explore classic Pittsburgh staples, explore the rise of gastropubs, and spotlight neighborhood favorites to help you navigate the flavorful landscape of Pittsburgh’s bars.
Classic Pittsburgh Bar Food: A Staple on Every Menu
Pittsburgh and its surrounding areas are known for some delicious and unique regional foods. These are a must-have at any bar or pub.
Pierogies: A Pittsburgh Tradition
No discussion about best bar food Pittsburgh can be complete without mentioning pierogies. These little pockets of dough, traditionally filled with potato and cheese, are a cultural icon. For the uninitiated, pierogies are boiled or pan-fried dumplings, often served with butter, onions, and sour cream. They are the quintessential comfort food and perfect for sharing with friends. While you’ll find pierogies on almost every menu, some places go above and beyond. Head to S&D Polish Deli in the Strip District for a true taste of tradition, or check out the various bars in Polish Hill, like the historical neighborhood mainstay, Gooski’s, to sample homemade pierogies with a variety of fillings. From the classic potato and cheese to more adventurous options like sauerkraut and mushroom or even jalapeno cheddar, these locations offer the best of the best. What sets these pierogies apart is the quality of the dough – perfectly tender, never gummy – and the generous, flavorful fillings. They are a true representation of Pittsburgh’s culinary heritage.
Wings: The Burgh’s Undying Love
Pittsburgh’s love affair with wings is legendary. Whether you like them spicy, tangy, or sweet, you’re sure to find wings you love at local watering holes. It’s impossible to ignore the ubiquitous presence of wings on Pittsburgh bar menus. Whether it’s a quiet neighborhood pub or a bustling sports bar, wings are a must-have. To navigate the wing landscape, it’s helpful to categorize. There are the classic Buffalo wings, drenched in a vinegary, spicy sauce, dry-rub wings with their savory blend of spices, and the increasingly popular option of wings with unique sauces, like honey sriracha, garlic parmesan, or even a local favorite, Pittsburgh-style honey mustard.
For classic Buffalo wings, you can’t go wrong with The Squirrel Hill Sports Bar or the aptly named Winghart’s Burger and Whiskey Bar. Their traditional sauces deliver the perfect kick. If dry rubs are your thing, Piper’s Pub, in the South Side, offers an excellent selection. For those who want to get creative with their sauces, give Smiling Moose a try.
Primanti Bros. Inspired Sandwiches
Although eating at the original Primanti Brothers in the Strip District is a must-have experience, you may be looking for a spot closer to home. The iconic Primanti Bros. sandwich, piled high with french fries and coleslaw, is a Pittsburgh institution. It’s a messy, delicious, and completely unique creation. While nothing beats the original, many bars throughout the city have taken inspiration from this iconic sandwich. You can find similar creations using high-quality ingredients and unique twists throughout the area.
Look for places that use fresh-baked bread, quality meats, and house-made coleslaw. Many bars put their own spin on the classic, using different cheeses, adding extra layers of meat, or experimenting with different sauces. Fat Head’s Saloon, with multiple locations, is known for their huge sandwich portions served with fries and coleslaw.
Pittsburgh Salad: Not Your Average Greens
The Pittsburgh Salad is a unique, carb-heavy dish that’s sure to fill you up. Typically, it consists of french fries, grilled chicken, steak, or falafel and cheese served on top of a bed of lettuce and tomatoes. This dish is sure to please if you are looking for something different. Many bars around the city offer their unique spin on the dish. Check out Stack’d Burgers and Beer for a great salad rendition.
“Jumbo” Style Hot Dogs
Pittsburgh’s hot dog culture is alive and well, and the “jumbo” style is a local favorite. These oversized hot dogs are typically served with a variety of toppings, from classic chili and cheese to more creative combinations. Local favorite Frankie Bunns offers a unique take on the traditional hot dog, offering unique hot dog creations.
Elevated Bar Food: A Gastronomic Evolution
Pittsburgh’s bar food scene has moved far beyond basic pub fare. Many establishments are now offering elevated dishes that would rival any restaurant in the city.
Burgers: The Reigning Champion
The humble burger has undergone a serious upgrade in Pittsburgh’s bar scene. Gone are the days of dry patties and stale buns. Today, you can find gourmet burgers made with high-quality beef, creative toppings, and artisanal buns. These burgers are a far cry from the average fast-food fare, and they are a testament to the city’s evolving culinary scene.
For a truly exceptional burger, head to Tessaro’s in Bloomfield. Their burgers are cooked over a wood-fired grill, giving them a smoky, unforgettable flavor. The burgers are always cooked to perfection, and their selection of toppings is impressive. Another notable burger destination is The Burghers Bar in Lawrenceville. They are known for their creative combinations and juicy burgers.
Gourmet and Loaded Fries: The Perfect Indulgence
Forget basic fries. Pittsburgh bars are taking french fries to a whole new level with creative toppings and preparations. From classic poutine to truffle fries, there’s a fry for every taste. These fries are perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying as a meal in themselves.
The Yard, with multiple locations around the city, offers the best loaded fries with a variety of options. For a touch of elegance, try the truffle fries at Bar Marco in the Strip District. The fries are crispy, flavorful, and perfectly seasoned.
Shareable Plates: Small Bites, Big Flavor
Many bars in Pittsburgh now offer menus of shareable plates, perfect for sampling a variety of flavors and enjoying a relaxed evening with friends. These plates can range from sliders and tacos to flatbreads and charcuterie boards, offering something for everyone.
Head to Butcher and the Rye in Downtown for a rotating menu of seasonal small plates that highlight local ingredients. Their menu is always changing, and their dishes are always creative and delicious. For a more casual option, check out Round Corner Cantina in Lawrenceville for tacos, queso, and great cocktails.
Vegan and Vegetarian: Options for Everyone
The growing demand for plant-based options has not gone unnoticed in Pittsburgh’s bar scene. Many bars are now offering excellent vegan burgers, appetizers, and other dishes. These options are not just an afterthought; they are carefully crafted to be delicious and satisfying.
Double Wide Grill, with two locations, is a haven for vegans, with an extensive menu of plant-based options, including vegan wings, burgers, and sandwiches. For a more upscale experience, try the vegan options at Apteka in Bloomfield. Their Eastern European-inspired dishes are creative and flavorful.
Neighborhood Hotspots: A Culinary Journey
Pittsburgh’s neighborhoods each have their own unique charm and character, and their bars reflect that. Exploring these neighborhoods is a great way to discover new and exciting best bar food Pittsburgh has to offer.
Lawrenceville: Trendy and Eclectic
Lawrenceville is known for its trendy atmosphere and eclectic mix of bars and restaurants. This neighborhood is a food lover’s paradise, and its bars are no exception. Check out The Vandal for small plates or try Industry Public House for a great meal.
Shadyside: Upscale and Sophisticated
Shadyside is an upscale neighborhood with a sophisticated vibe. Its bars offer a more refined dining experience, with high-quality ingredients and creative menus. Check out the local bar, Mario’s, or get some shareable plates at Umi.
South Side: Lively and Energetic
The South Side is a lively and energetic neighborhood known for its vibrant nightlife. Its bars are perfect for a fun night out with friends, with plenty of options for both food and drinks. Local favorite, The Birmingham Bridge Tavern, offers delicious food with an intimate atmosphere.
Downtown: The Heart of the City
Downtown Pittsburgh is the heart of the city, and its bars reflect that. You can find something to love at every bar. If you want a unique experience, try the famous Burghers Brewery.
North Side: Historic Charm
The North Side is a neighborhood with historic charm, and its bars reflect that. Check out the tasty brews and snacks at Allegheny City Brewing.
Hidden Gems and Underrated Spots
Beyond the well-known hotspots, Pittsburgh is full of hidden gems and underrated bars that deserve recognition for their food. These are the places where you can find surprisingly good wings, fantastic burgers, and other unexpected culinary delights.
Explore the less-traveled streets and discover these hidden treasures. They offer a unique and authentic taste of Pittsburgh’s bar food scene. Check out local favorites for great bar food.
Beyond the Food: Atmosphere and Drinks
While the food is a major draw, the overall bar experience is just as important. The best bar food is even better when the drinks and atmosphere are on point. A well-curated drink selection, a comfortable ambiance, and friendly service can make all the difference.
Look for bars with a wide selection of craft beers, creative cocktails, and a welcoming atmosphere. Live music, sports on TV, and cozy seating can all enhance the experience. Remember, the best bar is the one where you feel comfortable, relaxed, and ready to enjoy good food and good company.
Conclusion
Pittsburgh’s bar food scene is thriving. From classic staples to elevated dishes, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re craving pierogies, wings, burgers, or something entirely new, you’ll find it at one of Pittsburgh’s many bars. So, gather your friends, order a drink, and get ready to experience the best bar food Pittsburgh has to offer!
