The best restaurants to try in the Pittsburgh Metro
Disclaimer: We are not paid to promote any restaurant, hotel, activity, product, or attraction. All opinions are subjective and based on our personal experience. Your experience may be different.
Spice Affair
Location: Aspinwall
What to try: Paneer Tikka Masala
Pittsburgh is not a hotspot for quality Indian cuisine. In fact, most restaurants I have tried have been mediocre at best. Spice Affair is likely your best bet in the Pittsburgh metro. The great location in the charming Aspinwall neighborhood, colorful setting, and diversity of dishes make it the best choice in town. Unfortunately, they no longer offer a lunch buffet. While the food is not top notch, it’s an option to satisfy a craving for tasty Indian food which is near impossible to duplicate at home. From vegetarian classics like Saag Paneer and Aloo Gobi, to Chicken and Lamb based specialities, there is something here for everyone. Do start with fresh garlic Naan bread and a few appetizers (you cannot go wrong with pakoras and samosas!).
My full review of Spice Affair
The Porch at Schenley
Location: Schenley Park
What to try: Quiche of the day
For the best al fresco dining in the city, definitely plan for a spring/summer/fall brunch or lunch date at The Porch at Schenley. They offer the most beautiful patio dining in the city – it’s my favorite place to dine in the summer months. The leafy views of the park can’t be topped. Fresh veggies come straight from their garden and all entrees are made from scratch. Thus, The Porch is one of the better options for health conscious diners. For brunch, enjoy a delicious slice of quiche or a filling breakfast burrito. For lunch, treat yourself to a specialty pizza (try the Spinach Artichoke) or a healthy salad (try the Autumn Harvest).
Choolaah
Locations: Multiple
What to try: Perfect Balance bowl with Veggie croquettes and tikka masala
Although I try to avoid chains, Choolaah deserves a spot on this list. This fast casual Indian restaurant is one of your best choices for fresh, delicious, affordable Indian cuisine. The concept is similar to Chipotle – you build your own bowl with your choice of toppings. Pick your rice (white or brown basmati), protein (paneer cheese, tofu, chicken, lamb), top with a sauce (tikka masala, chickpea masala, and add on extras like roasted veggies and Naan bread. Choolaah first opened in Cleveland in 2014 and has since expanded to include many locations through Ohio and Pennsylvania. The vibe is trendy and modern, food is served quick, and everything is delicious. Note – a bit pricey and portions are quite small.
Iron Born Pizza
Location: Strip District & Millvale
What to try: Veggie Supreme Pie
For Detroit style pizza, look no further than Iron Born Pizza. It’s one of the the few and definitely the best place to enjoy authentic Detroit style pies. Detroit Style pizza is cut into squares and served with the sauce on the top. The crust is thick, chewy, and crusty on the sides with the cheese overflowing. A variety of specialty pies are available, from to Buffalo Chicken Pie, to a White Pie, to a Pineapple Pie. The app selection is great – treat yourself to garlic knots, a half pound of fries, or house chips served with carmelized onion dip. The ambiance is a bit blah, although you are located just steps from many shops, vendors, and the Three Rivers Heritage bike trail.
Sesame Inn
Locations: Multiple
What to try: Buddhist Delight
Sesame Inn is another authentic Chinese restaurant to add to your must-try list. With multiple locations, it’s easily accessible no matter where you go. The Mt. Lebanon location is convenient to many great coffeeshops and local businesses. The interior is clean and inviting, the staff friendly, and the food tasty. The menu is diverse and includes Sichuan, Hunan, Shanghai, Peking and Cantonese specialties, plus a full sushi bar and Thai specials. The lunch special is a great deal, priced at just $10-13 and includes soup, an egg roll, and fried rice.
