10 Uniquely Amazing Restaurants in Pittsburgh (2025)

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After exploring Pittsburgh on two different trips, I’ve come to realize that this city is seriously underrated when it comes to unique dining experiences. The Steel City might be known for its industrial history, but its food scene is next-level. Whether you’re digging into a classic sandwich in the Strip District or enjoying elevated cuisine at a trendy spot in Lawrenceville, Pittsburgh knows how to impress foodies.

From creative takes on comfort food to innovative, chef-driven restaurants, this city is full of cool and unique places to eat. Here are 10 restaurants that stand out in Pittsburgh’s vibrant food scene—each offering something fun, flavorful, and totally memorable.

• 👉 Pro Tip: I HIGHLY recommend doing this brewery tour in Pittsburgh. It brings you to the top breweries where you get to taste 12 beers. This tour is an absolute must-do on a Pittsburgh itinerary in my opinion.

Unique Restaurants in Pittsburgh

Are you ready to discover the most unique restaurants in Pittsburgh? There’s a large variety of places to eat in Pittsburgh that will please all palates and budgets. Keep reading as we spotlight where to eat in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

Are you looking for a taste of authentic Argentinean grilling? Or would you prefer a farm-to-table experience that celebrates the freshest local produce? From fiery Mexican street food to innovative dishes that spark global conversations, there’s no shortage of unique places in Pittsburgh to eat that promise a memorable meal. Here’s your in-depth guide to the most unique restaurants in Pittsburgh, PA.

1. Pusadee’s Garden

• 📍 Location: Lawrenceville
• 💲 Price range: $40 – $80 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Upscale Thai
• 🔥 Standout Features: Stunning multi-level garden patio, refined Thai dishes, beautiful cocktails, and sought-after reservations.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Romantic dates, special occasions, upscale Thai fans, gorgeous patio dining, and impressing guests.

Prepare to be wowed at Pusadee’s Garden in Lawrenceville. After a major renovation, this spot boasts one of the most beautiful outdoor dining spaces in the city – a multi-level, lush garden patio. It’s incredibly romantic, especially at night.

The food is equally impressive, offering refined Thai cuisine. Their crispy pig tails are a popular starter. The pumpkin curry with chicken or tofu, and flavorful street noodles like Pad See Ew, are also excellent choices. Getting a reservation can be tough.

2. Altius

• 📍 Location: Mount Washington
• 💲 Price range: $80 – $150+ per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Elevated Modern American / Fine Dining
• 🔥 Standout Features: Breathtaking panoramic city/river views, located atop Mt. Washington, refined dishes, upscale atmosphere.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Stunning city view seekers, special occasion celebrants, romantic dinners, impressing visitors, and fine dining splurges.

For dinner with arguably the best view in Pittsburgh, head to Altius. Perched high above the city on Mount Washington, this fine-dining restaurant boasts floor-to-ceiling windows offering spectacular panoramic views of the downtown skyline and three rivers.

The cuisine matches the elevated setting. Consider their perfectly seared diver scallops with seasonal accompaniments. The tender Pennsylvania lamb loin or their creative vegetarian tasting menu also showcase high-quality ingredients and artistic plating.

3. The Vandal

• 📍 Location: Lawrenceville
• 💲 Price range: $20 – $40 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Contemporary American / Cafe / Brunch Focus
• 🔥 Standout Features: Hip neighborhood cafe vibe, excellent brunch/lunch spot, seasonal menu, often minimalist decor.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Stylish brunch/lunch goers, casual dates, neighborhood gem seekers, seasonal food fans, and Lawrenceville hangs.

The Vandal is that effortlessly cool neighborhood cafe in Lawrenceville. With its minimalist, chic decor and focus on quality, seasonal ingredients, it’s a go-to spot, especially for brunch and lunch. They nail that balance between laid-back and thoughtful food.

Expect creative takes on cafe classics. Their ricotta toast with seasonal toppings is a must-try. The savory breakfast sandwich on a house-made biscuit, or a vibrant grain bowl with fresh vegetables, are also consistently delicious.

4. Federal Galley

• 📍 Location: North Side (Nova Place)
• 💲 Price range: $15 – $35+ per person (Varies by vendor)
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Diverse / Food Hall / Multiple Vendors
• 🔥 Standout Features: Food hall concept with rotating restaurant incubators, large bar, communal seating, outdoor space.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Trying new concepts/chefs, groups with diverse tastes, casual meetups, pre/post-game hangs, and outdoor drinks.

Can’t decide what to eat? Head to Federal Galley on the North Side. This innovative space operates as a food hall and restaurant incubator, featuring several independent kitchen concepts under one roof, showcasing up-and-coming chefs.

The lineup changes, but you might find awesome Detroit-style pizza from one vendor. Gourmet burgers or creative tacos from other stalls are also popular. It boasts a large central bar with a great selection, perfect for groups.

5. Morcilla

• 📍 Location: Lawrenceville
• 💲 Price range: $40 – $80 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Spanish / Tapas Focused
• 🔥 Standout Features: Acclaimed Spanish tapas, focus on Basque cuisine, gin & tonics, lively atmosphere, often busy.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Tapas lovers, sharing plates enthusiasts, lively group dinners, gin & tonic fans, and flavorful date nights.

Get a taste of Spain in Lawrenceville at Morcilla, a highly-regarded spot focused on authentic Spanish tapas, particularly from the Basque region. Prepare to share a variety of flavorful small plates in a lively, bustling atmosphere.

Their patatas bravas with a spicy aioli are a must-try. The gambas al ajillo (garlic shrimp) sizzle with flavor, and their selection of Spanish cheeses and charcuterie, like Manchego and Iberico ham, are perfect for sharing. They’re known for excellent gin and tonics.

6. Gaucho Parilla Argentina

• 📍 Location: Downtown Pittsburgh (Previously Strip District)
• 💲 Price range: $30 – $60 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Argentinian Steakhouse / Parrilla (Wood-Fired Grill)
• 🔥 Standout Features: Wood-fired Argentinian grill (parrilla), focus on grilled meats, chimichurri sauce, often long lines/popular.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Meat lovers, wood-grilled food fans, chimichurri addicts, flavorful casual meals, and trying Argentinian BBQ.

Follow the incredible smell of wood smoke to Gaucho Parilla Argentina. This wildly popular spot specializes in Argentinian-style wood-fired grilling, focusing primarily on high-quality grilled meats. Expect perfectly cooked steaks, sausages, and chicken.

Ordering the asado (flank steak) or the flavorful entraña (skirt steak) is essential, served with their addictive house-made chimichurri sauce. Their grilled sweetbreads (mollejas) are also a unique and delicious choice. Be prepared for its popularity.

7. Apteka

• 📍 Location: Bloomfield
• 💲 Price range: $20 – $40 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Vegan Eastern European / Polish Inspired
• 🔥 Standout Features: Entirely vegan menu, creative takes on Eastern European classics, natural wines, minimalist/chic decor, very popular (expect a wait).
• 🎯 Perfect For: Vegans and vegetarians, adventurous eaters seeking unique plant-based options, fans of Polish/Eastern European flavors, and trying something truly different.

Prepare to be amazed by innovative vegan cuisine at Apteka in Bloomfield. This acclaimed restaurant offers a unique, entirely plant-based take on Eastern European and Polish-inspired dishes. The flavors are bold, surprising, and incredibly satisfying, even for non-vegans.

You should definitely try their famous pierogi, with creative seasonal fillings. Their schnitzel made from celeriac or mushrooms, or hearty vegetable-based stews like bigos, are also fantastic. The minimalist decor and focus on natural wines complete the experience.

8. Casbah

• 📍 Location: Shadyside
• 💲 Price range: $50 – $100 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Mediterranean / Upscale Dining
• 🔥 Standout Features: Long-standing Shadyside favorite, multi-level dining/patio, Mediterranean-inspired menu, wine list focus, elegant yet cozy.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Upscale neighborhood dining fans, romantic dinners, patio lovers, wine enthusiasts, and special occasions.

A fixture in Shadyside, Casbah offers an elegant yet comfortable Mediterranean dining experience. Spread across multiple levels, including a lovely covered patio, the restaurant provides a warm, inviting ambiance. The vibe feels sophisticated but not stuffy.

The menu draws inspiration from across the Mediterranean. Consider their flavorful tagliatelle with lamb ragu. Fresh seafood dishes, like pan-seared branzino or grilled octopus, and their popular Moroccan spiced lamb, are also well-executed.

9. Fig & Ash

• 📍 Location: North Side (Deutschtown)
• 💲 Price range: $50 – $100 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Contemporary American / Hearth Cooking
• 🔥 Standout Features: Wood-fired hearth cooking focus, rustic-industrial decor, seasonal ingredients, craft cocktails, neighborhood feel.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Hearth cooking fans, seasonal food lovers, upscale casual dinners, craft cocktail seekers, and North Side dining explorers.

Experience the magic of wood-fired cooking at Fig & Ash on the North Side. Much of their menu centers around a custom-built hearth, infusing dishes with smoky flavor and showcasing seasonal ingredients in a rustic yet refined way. The decor blends industrial elements.

Expect delicious contemporary American fare. Their wood-fired half chicken is a standout. Charred vegetables like asparagus or carrots, or perfectly cooked pork chops from the hearth, also showcase the starring role of the fire. They offer creative cocktails.

10. The Forge

• 📍 Location: Lawrenceville
• 💲 Price range: $20 – $40 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Mediterranean Lounge / Small Plates / Cocktails
• 🔥 Standout Features: Stylish lounge atmosphere, Mediterranean small plates/mezze, craft cocktails, often outdoor seating/patio.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Casual hangs with small bites, craft cocktail seekers, stylish lounge explorers, sharing plates enthusiasts, and Lawrenceville evenings.

Find stylish sips and Mediterranean bites at The Forge in Lawrenceville. This spot operates more like a chic lounge, offering a cool, relaxed atmosphere perfect for meeting friends. The focus is on shareable Mediterranean-inspired small plates and mezze.

Consider their flavorful dips like hummus or baba ghanoush served with warm pita. Grilled halloumi or lamb kofta skewers are also great for sharing. Their craft cocktail program, alongside wine and beer, complements the food.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Unique Restaurants in Pittsburgh

Are you searching for more information about where to eat in Pittsburgh? Here are some common questions (and answers) I get asked a lot about Pittsburgh’s most unusual restaurants.

What food is iconic to Pittsburgh?

Pittsburgh boasts a rich culinary heritage, with several dishes that have become synonymous with the city. If you’re keen to sample Pittsburgh’s best food, here are some must-tries:

1. Pittsburgh Salad: A hearty salad topped with crispy French fries. It’s a delightful mix of fresh veggies and indulgent fries, making it a favorite among locals and visitors.
2. Pierogies: These delicious dumplings of Central and Eastern European origin have found a special place in Pittsburgh’s heart. Stuffed with various fillings like potato, cheese, and meat, they’re a comfort food staple.
3. Primanti Bros. Sandwich: A legendary sandwich loaded with meat, coleslaw, tomatoes, and, yes, French fries. It’s a full meal between two slices of bread!
4. Chipped Chopped Ham Sandwich: Thinly sliced ham, cooked up with a tangy sauce and served on a bun. Simple, yet oh-so-delicious.

What is the restaurant in Pittsburgh that looks like a castle?

That would be The Grand Concourse. Located in Station Square, this stunning restaurant is housed in a former train station. With its majestic architecture, high ceilings, and elegant decor, it truly resembles a castle. It’s one of the best fine dining restaurants in Pittsburgh, offering a mix of seafood, steaks, and classic American dishes in a regal setting.

Is Pittsburgh a foodie city?

Absolutely! Pittsburgh has rapidly evolved into a culinary hotspot, offering everything from cheap eats to upscale dining experiences. The city’s dining scene reflects its diverse cultural influences, with a range of cuisines available to satisfy any palate. From hidden gem restaurants in Pittsburgh to popular eateries that have garnered national attention, there’s no shortage of delicious options. Whether you’re a fan of traditional American fare, international cuisines, or innovative fusion dishes, Pittsburgh promises a gastronomic adventure like no other. As such, there are so many unique restaurants in Pittsburgh that are worth visiting.

How diverse is the restaurant scene in Pittsburgh?

Pittsburgh’s restaurant scene is a melting pot of cultures and flavors. From vegan restaurants in Pittsburgh to authentic international eateries, the city offers a culinary journey around the world. Whether you’re craving Italian, Asian, Middle Eastern, or Latin American dishes, Pittsburgh has a spot that’ll hit the mark. Plus, with a growing number of fusion restaurants, there’s always something new and exciting to try.

Where can I find themed restaurants in the city?

If you’re looking for themed restaurants in Pittsburgh, PA, you’re in for a treat! The city boasts several establishments that offer more than just food – they provide a complete immersive experience. From retro diners that transport you back in time to quirky spots inspired by pop culture, there’s a themed restaurant to match every mood and preference. Just wander around the city, and you’re bound to stumble upon a unique dining experience that’s both entertaining and delicious.

Are there any must-visit waterfront dining spots in Pittsburgh?

Given its location at the confluence of three rivers, Pittsburgh offers some stunning waterfront dining options. Many of these spots are considered Pittsburgh’s coolest restaurants because of their scenic views. Enjoying a meal while overlooking the water, especially during sunset, is a magical experience.

Pittsburgh’s Most Unique Restaurants: Final Comments

Pittsburgh’s dining scene is nothing short of spectacular. From the smoky flavors of Gaucho Parrilla Argentina to the innovative concept of Federal Galley, the city offers a culinary adventure at every turn. It’s not just about the high-end spots like The Grand Concourse. Places like Primanti Bros Restaurant and Bar prove that delicious doesn’t always mean expensive.

Each restaurant we’ve highlighted brings its own unique charm to the table. Be it the farm-fresh offerings of The Vandal or the vibrant street food vibe of Round Corner Cantina, there’s something for everyone. And the best part? This city caters to all tastes and budgets.

To sum it up, Pittsburgh is a food lover’s dream. If you haven’t explored Pittsburgh’s restaurants yet, you’re in for a delightful surprise. Bon appétit!