When you are in Pittsburgh, you should consume as the locals do.
When visitors arrive in Pittsburgh, one of the most frequently asked inquiries is, “What kind of food is Pittsburgh known for”?
The first is simple, as everyone is familiar with Primanti Brothers. From there, the definition of iconic food in Pittsburgh can vary greatly depending on who you question. Is pierogi a typical Pittsburgh dish? What is the status of Beto’s pizza? Or how about something more unique, such as sliced ham with chips? Or how about renowned desserts, breakfast establishments, and more?
What kind of food is Pittsburgh known for
Pittsburgh is renowned for many things, including its sports teams, yellow bridges, iconic rivers, and, increasingly, its food culture. During your time in the Burgh, be sure to try these delicacies that are exclusive to Steel City.
Here are many famous dishes of Pittsburgh which is represent the taste and culture of Pittsburgh:
1. Primanti Sandwich
No selection of Pittsburgh foods would be complete without Primanti Bros. Primanti’s is arguably responsible for Pittsburgh’s most famous sandwich, which consists of broiled meat, melted cheese, oil-and-vinegar-based coleslaw, tomato, and French fries between two slices of Italian bread.
I suggest sampling one at the original Primanti Bros. location in the Strip District or PNC Park while watching the Bucs play!
2. Pierogies
Pierogies occupy a special place in the hearts of many Pittsburghers. From Pierogies Plus to Cop OutPierogies to the Pittsburgh Pierogi Truck and beyond, there is no shortage of excellent restaurants serving these delectable homemade dumplings.
There is an entire festival dedicated to pierogis at Kennywood, mascots wearing pierogi outfits race around PNC Park throughout all home games, and ravioli t-shirts, earrings, and Christmas decorations are readily available throughout the city.
Let us discuss the Pierogi Pizza. Combining two time-honored favorites, this delectable ‘za must be tasted to be believed. The pizza at Aiello’s Pizza in Squirrel Hill is one of my favorites.
3. Pittsburgh Salad
French Fries in Pittsburgh are not limited to sandwiches alone. One of my favorite dishes is the Pittsburgh Salad, which features French Fries as croutons atop a salad. It is ideal if you’re in the mood for something mild but still want to feel satisfied.
The Grilled Chicken Salad at North Park Lounge is one of my favorites. The original North Park Lounge location is close to McCandless Crossing, but numerous other areas are throughout the city so you can go right.
4. Potato Patch Fries
Then there’s The Potato Patch, famous for its French fries alone, sans sandwich or salad. The fresh-cut Idaho potatoes at Kennywood Park are among a theme park’s most iconic culinary items. The summer isn’t complete without a visit to The Potato Patch, which offers topping options, including cheddar cheese, bacon, vinegar, brown gravy, and seasoning granules.
5. Gobblerito
Here’s a November menu item exclusive to Pittsburgh to be thankful for: the gobbler too. Mad Mex is responsible for this unique dish that packs an entire Thanksgiving dinner into a single burrito, including turkey, potatoes, stuffing, gravy, and cranberry sauce on the side. It is only available seasonally, so take it!
6. Prantl’s Burnt Almond Torte
Pittsburgh bakeries are distinctive! From pastries to paczki and everything in between, our local bakeries can satisfy any sweet tooth craving. Visit Prantl’s Bakery for their world-famous Burnt Almond Torte – you won’t regret it!
7. Turner’s Tea
When I visit out-of-state friends, you can guarantee I’ll fill a cooler with Turner’s for them. One sip of Turner’s product, celebrating 50 years, is enough to convert anyone into an enduring fan. Their iced tea, sold in signature orange and yellow containers, has become a lifestyle and a beverage, with shirts and other Turner merchandise sold throughout the city.
Additionally, they need help to beat local farm-bottled milk. Follow their Instagram, as collaboration or limited-time beverages are frequently released and quickly sell out.
8. Sarris Candies
Always consider Sarris Candies when searching for a gift for someone you care about. This local chocolate manufacturer has been in business for more than 50 years, and their confections are now available in 11 states and shipped worldwide.
9. Smiley Cookies
Smiley Cookies are the most sentimental item on this list. They remind me of family gatherings and rewards for academic achievement. This simple frosted cookie has been a favorite with children at Eat’n Park since 1986 and is given away with every kid’s meal.
10. Oakmonter
Pittsburgh is known for its sweets. Oakmont Bakery’s aptly-named Oakmonter, a vanilla cheesecake and chocolate cake filled with fudge and garnished with cherries, buttercream, and chocolate bars, is comparable to Prantl’s. Everyone instantly becomes your friend when you bring this to a party or gathering.
11. Gobs
I adore cuisine with a narrative. Gobs were established out of necessity and practicality, as miners in the area required a dessert that did not crumble and was simple to consume. The handheld gob, two tiny chocolate cakes with frosting sandwiched between them, became a staple of lunch pails after that. Clumps can be found in bakeries throughout the region in flavors like red velvet and (my personal favorite) pumpkin.
12. Pamela’s Hotcakes
Make your way to Pamela’s Diner and order the crepe-like, paper-thin hotcakes for an unforgettable brunch. Order the pancakes filled with fruit and brown sugar and crowned with whipped cream or syrup.
13. Heinz Ketchup
In 1857, It developed this globally renowned condiment in Pittsburgh. Heinz increased the production of tomato ketchup in the twentieth century. Today, ketchup is no longer produced in the city, but it remains a popular condiment in local restaurants and the residences of residents.
14. Pepperoni Roll
Pepperoni rolls, a basic but immensely delicious and satisfying baked good, were introduced to Pittsburgh in the early 1900s to feed hungry coal miners. Mancini’s Bakery in the Strip District and Colangelo’s Bakery & Café are among the many city bakeries offering pepperoni rolls. Rolling Pepperoni offers traditional pepperoni rolls in addition to vegetarian and vegan options.
15. Beto’s Raw Pizza
Have you ever consumed a pizza with chilly toppings? The only cooked components of Beto’s raw pizza are the crust and sauce, so each pizza is topped with uncooked cheese and various cold, traditional pizza garnishes. It is a style of pizza that all pizza lovers should experience.
Thank you for reading….