A Culinary Journey: Savoring the Local Flavors of Pittsburgh, PA

Written by: Carlo Quisenberry | Blog | Local Flavors

Pittsburgh – A Hearty Delight from the Streets of the Strip District

Pittsburgh is known for its industrial past, beautiful landscapes, and thriving sports scene. However, often overlooked is the fact that Pittsburgh has a thriving culinary scene that any food lover shouldn’t miss. The city boasts a myriad of locally sourced restaurants, family-owned eateries, and a diverse range of cuisines that promises to satisfy any taste bud. Here, we’ll take you on a culinary journey, delving into the local flavors and hidden gems of Pittsburgh, PA.

The Iconic Primanti Brothers’ Sandwich

One of the most famous local dishes in Pittsburgh is undoubtedly the Primanti Brothers’ sandwich. This sandwich originated in the Strip District of Pittsburgh and was created for truck drivers who were looking for a hearty meal that they could easily eat on the go. The sandwich consists of meat (beef, turkey, or ham), cheese, coleslaw, and fresh-cut french fries all served on Italian bread. The sandwich is so popular in Pittsburgh that it’s almost a rite of passage, and you can’t say you’ve been to Pittsburgh without having one.

A Cultural Staple Rooted in Pittsburgh Tradition

Another must-try while in Pittsburgh is pierogies. This dish is so ingrained in Pittsburgh’s culture that the city even has a pierogi race during baseball games. Pierogies are stuffed dumplings that originated in Eastern Europe and are filled with different fillings, including potatoes, cheese, sauerkraut, and even fruit. Pittsburghers love their pierogies, and you can find them on almost any menu in the city.

Dining at Smallman Galley

If you’re looking for a more upscale dining experience, the Smallman Galley is definitely worth a visit. Smallman Galley is a restaurant incubator that supports and nurtures aspiring chefs, giving them an opportunity to showcase their culinary talents. At any given time, four chefs operate their restaurants within the space and offer their unique take on contemporary cuisine. The chefs rotate every 12 to 18 months, so there is always something new and exciting to try.

Farmers’ Markets: A Taste of Local Produce

One of the best ways to experience the local flavors of Pittsburgh is to visit the farmers’ markets. Pittsburgh has a thriving farmers’ market scene, and you can find fresh, locally sourced produce, meats, and cheeses. The Pittsburgh Public Market in the Strip District is a great place to start, offering a wide array of fresh local produce, fresh meats, and bakery items. The Bloomfield Saturday Market is also worth a visit if you’re looking for some delicious prepared foods to eat on the go.

Sweet Treats of Pittsburgh

Finally, what’s a culinary journey without some sweet treats? If you have a sweet tooth and are looking for some delicious desserts, Pittsburgh has got you covered. A must-visit is the Prantl’s Bakery, home of the famous Burnt Almond Torte. This iconic dessert is comprised of delicate layers of yellow cake, custard, and a whipped cream frosting, and is topped off with toasted almonds. Another sweet experience not to miss is the Milkshake Factory, where you can indulge in a variety of milkshakes made with fresh ingredients.

Conclusion

As you can see, Pittsburgh offers an abundance of delicious local flavors that any food lover should not miss. From the iconic Primanti Brothers’ sandwich, to pierogies, to farmer’s markets, and sweet treats, Pittsburgh has something to offer for everyone. So, if you’re planning a trip to the city soon, make sure to indulge in some local flavors and explore the hidden gems of Pittsburgh’s culinary scene.