Taste the Flavors of Pittsburgh: This is the Famous Pittsburgh Food You HAVE to Try!
Pittsburgh is a city with a long and storied history, and its cuisine is just as unique as its culture. The foods of Pittsburgh are a reflection of its diverse population, with influences from Eastern European immigrants, African-Americans, and the city’s industrial past. From sandwiches to salads to noodles, there’s something for everyone in the Steel City. Here are the must-try Pittsburgh foods you won’t want to miss.
Pittsburgh Cuisine
Pittsburgh is known for its food, with a cuisine that is both rustic and classic. The city’s diversity is reflected in its food, with influences from Eastern European immigrants, African-Americans, and other cultures. Pittsburgh’s industrial past has also had an impact on its cuisine, with dishes like the Primanti Brothers sandwich and city chicken. The foods of Pittsburgh are a reflection of its culture, and a visit to the city would not be complete without trying some of the local fare.
Food from Pittsburgh can be divided into several categories, including sandwiches, salads, and noodles. The city is known for its classic sandwiches, like the Primanti Brothers sandwich, and its unique salads, like the Pittsburgh salad. Noodles are also popular in the city, with dishes like haluski and kluski. These dishes are a reflection of the city’s rich cultural history, and a visit to Pittsburgh would not be complete without trying them.
Pittsburgh is also known for its desserts, particularly the whoopie pie. This classic dessert is a favorite in the city, and it can be found in many local bakeries. Pittsburgh also has a unique beverage, Iron City beer. This beer is a local favorite, and it is a great way to end a meal. So… what is famous Pittsburgh Food?
Foods Pittsburgh is Known For : A Yinzer’s and Visitor’s Guide
Primanti Brothers – Pittsburgh’s Iconic Sandwich
In 1933, Joe Primanti of Wilmerding, Pennsylvania opened up his first restaurant at 46 18th Street in Pittsburgh’s Strip District. This bustling waterfront landmark was at the time a major center for industrial activity, including factories, warehouses, and shipyards. It is believed that Joe invented the iconic Primanti’s sandwich during the Great Depression. His brothers, Dick and Stanley, eventually joined him in the venture. The restaurant still stands at its original location on Smallman Street and 18th Street, and originally catered to folks working the late-night and early-morning shifts who were unloading produce.
The Primanti sandwich is a great way to experience the culture of Pittsburgh. Other than Heinz Ketchup, it may just be the most famous Pittsburgh food. It is a reflection of the city’s industrial past, and it is a great way to start a meal. The sandwich is a classic in the city, and it is a great way to experience the flavors of Pittsburgh.
Pierogis – A Staple of Pittsburgh Cuisine
The pierogi is a classic dish of Pittsburgh, and it is one of the most popular dishes in the city. The pierogi is a dumpling, usually filled with potatoes, cheese, or other savory ingredients. The pierogi is usually served with butter, onions, and sour cream, and it is classic Pittsburgh food.
People from Central and Eastern Europe have a fondness for pierogies, which is considered to be the national dish of Poland and is popular in other Slavic countries such as Ukraine, Slovakia, Lithuania, and Russia. Pittsburgh was exposed to these dumplings by its immigrants. They are sometimes referred to as pirohy or pirogi, and it is thought that the name is derived from the Slavic word for “pie”. Pierogies are made from an unleavened dough that is comparable to the dough used for noodles. The dough is rolled out, then cut into circles. The circles are filled with all sorts of ingredients before being sealed by pinching the ends together. After this, they are boiled in water until coming to the surface.
The fillings for pierogies can be varied and can be used as an appetizer, side dish, main course or dessert. Common ingredients are potatoes, cheese, and sauerkraut. Sweeter fillings may include prunes and apricots.
Haluski – A Comfort Food in Pittsburgh
The haluski is a classic dish of Pittsburgh, and it is a favorite of locals. The haluski is a noodle dish, usually served with cabbage, bacon, and onions. The dish is a great way to experience the flavors of Pittsburgh, and it is a great way to start a meal.
The exact birthplace of Haluski is uncertain, although it does have connections to the Czech Republic and Poland. In addition, there are many variants of this comfort food which are well-known in other Eastern European countries. Some Haluski recipes make use of dumplings or potatoes instead of noodles, while the Polish variety includes cabbage rather than potatoes.
This dish has also become popular in Pittsburgh, where it is regularly consumed. The combination of melted butter, bacon, and boiled noodles is a hard combination to resist, and it is no surprise that it has become a favorite go-to meal for many in Pittsburgh.
Chipped-Chopped Ham – A Unique Dish of Pittsburgh
Chipped ham (also called chipped-chopped ham) is definitely a famous Pittsburgh food, and it is a favorite of locals. Made famous by Isaly’s, it is usually served with a variety of condiments, including mayonnaise, mustard, and pickles. The dish is a great way to experience the flavors of Pittsburgh, and it is a great way to start a meal.
Pittsburgh has a special connection to Chipped Ham BBQ sandwiches. It was Isaly’s that first made the dish famous in the area, with their ‘Chipped Chopped Ham’ lunch specials. You can still find this type of sandwich at eateries in western Pennsylvania, as well as in Ohio and West Virginia.
Kielbasa – A Flavorful Polish Sausage
Kielbasa is a classic Polish sausage, and it is a favorite of Pittsburgh locals. The sausage is usually served with a variety of condiments, including ketchup, mustard, and pickles. The dish is a great way to experience the flavors of Pittsburgh.
Kielbasa, which first began in Poland, is a very tasty food that is now consumed globally. Almost everyone has encountered this type of sausage at some stage, either as part of a meal or cooked on the barbeque. It is an enjoyable word to pronounce and has a very captivating history.
City Chicken – An Unusual Dish of Pittsburgh
Does the dish “City Chicken” have its origins in the city of Pittsburgh?
Research has shown that the recipe, which has its roots in Polish-American cooking, dates back to the start of the 20th century and has spread to other cities located in the Great Lakes region, such as Detroit, Michigan, Buffalo, New York and Cleveland, Ohio. This dish has become a type of comfort food, especially in the Rust Belt region.
City chicken is a unique dish to Pittsburgh, and it is a favorite of locals. The dish is made with cubes of chicken and pork, usually served with a variety of condiments. City Chicken is now considered a classic food from Pittsburgh.
Pittsburgh Salad – The City’s Signature Salad
At first glance, a salad in Pittsburgh can be quite confusing. When travelling outside of Pittsburgh, you are usually met with “yeah… they have french fries on their salads in Pittsburgh, right…” when telling someone where you are from. The salad is made with lettuce, tomatoes, onions, and cucumbers, usually topped with a variety of condiments. The salad is a great way to experience the flavors of Pittsburgh, and it is a great way to start a meal.
The exact source of the Pittsburgh salad is uncertain, but according to one narrative, it was first made at Jerry’s Curb Service in Beaver, Pennsylvania in the early 1960s. It is said that one evening, a patron requested a steak sandwich without the bun, but with added french fries and salad dressing. Jerry’s wife, Donna Reed, then fused the components and created a different dish, which was served on a bed of lettuce. Regardless, the Pittsburgh salad has become a famous icon of Pittsburgh Food worldwide. Ask almost anyone what is a Pittsburgh Salad and they’ll tell you it has french fries.The exact source of the steak salad is uncertain, but according to one narrative, it was first made at Jerry’s Curb Service in Beaver, Pennsylvania in the early 1960s. It is said that one evening, a patron requested a steak sandwich without the bun, but with added french fries and salad dressing. Jerry’s wife, Donna Reed, then fused the components and created a different dish, which was served on a bed of lettuce.
Kluski – A Classic Noodle Dish
The Polish term for “noodle” is what we refer to as kluski, a type of straight and thick egg noodle. These noodles are especially delicious when put into soup or served as a side dish with nothing more than butter and parsley sprinkled on top.
Whoopie Pies Or Gobs – A Sweet Treat of Pittsburgh
If you’re looking for a dessert or snack when it comes to Pittsburgh food, then the Gob, or Whoopie Pie, is perfect for you! The whoopie pie is usually made with a chocolate cake-like dough, filled with a creamy filling.
A whoopie pie, also known as a black moon, gob (a term used in the Pittsburgh area), black-and-white, bob, or “BFO” (which stands for Big Fat Oreo and has also been referred to as “Devil Dogs” and “Twins” in 1835), is a popular sweet treat in the United States. Commonly either classified as a cookie, pie, sandwich, or cake, it is made with two round mounds of cake, usually chocolate flavored but occasionally pumpkin, gingerbread, or other flavors, with a creamy filling or frosting sandwiched between them.
Sarris Candies
Every city has its iconic chocolate shop, and in Pittsburgh, that title goes to Sarris Candies. Founded in 1960 in Canonsburg, this specialty store has become a local favorite for its delicious chocolates, candies, and ice cream. Sarris Candies products can be found at over a thousand stores throughout Pennsylvania and neighboring states, but a visit to their flagship store in Canonsburg offers the full experience.
Prantl’s Burnt Almond Torte
Another sweet treat that Pittsburgh is known for is the burnt almond torte from Prantl’s Bakery. This delectable dessert features a white cake covered in icing and generously topped with almonds on every square inch. The torte’s popularity has led to it being served by the slice, as wedding cakes, and in various other formats at Prantl’s and other bakeries around the city.
Heinz Ketchup
When you think of famous Pittsburgh food, Heinz Ketchup is undoubtedly one of the most iconic condiments in the world, and it all started in Pittsburgh. H. J. Heinz began his venture into the food industry in the mid-1800s with the production of horseradish and introduced the now-famous Heinz Tomato Ketchup in 1875. The company’s signature “57 varieties” slogan was introduced in 1896, and Heinz Ketchup has remained a global staple ever since.
Although Heinz Ketchup production has since moved out of Pittsburgh, the city’s history with the brand ensures that any establishment serving anything but Heinz Ketchup will likely be met with disapproval from locals.
Pamela’s Diner’s Hotcakes
Pittsburgh has no shortage of beloved breakfast spots, but Pamela’s Diner stands out with its signature hotcakes. These large, crepe-like pancakes are thin and crispy around the edges, making them a simple yet decadent breakfast option. For an extra touch of indulgence, order your hotcakes with a fruit filling, brown sugar, sour cream, and whipped cream on top.
Pennsylvania Rye Whiskey
While Kentucky may be famous for its bourbon, Pennsylvania Rye Whiskey has deep roots in the Pittsburgh region. The Monongahela Rye dates back to the late 1700s, and its unique mash bill and sweet mash processing technique set it apart from other whiskeys. To get a taste of this historic spirit, try Old Overholt, one of America’s longest-running whiskeys, or sample locally-produced options from Wigle Whiskey and Liberty Pole. While whiskey is not really “food”… one cannot deny that it’s popularity and origin make it a candidate to be included in a list of famous Pittsburgh food.
Eat’n Park Smiley Cookies
The Smiley Cookie from Eat’n Park is a simple yet beloved treat in Pittsburgh. Introduced in 1986, these smiley-faced cookies have become an enduring symbol of the city. The cookies are made fresh daily at Eat’n Park restaurants, and their cheerful appearance is sure to brighten any day.
Kennywood’s Potato Patch Fries
Pittsburgh’s historic amusement park, Kennywood, boasts its own iconic food: Potato Patch Fries. These monstrous fries are topped with cheese (and optionally, bacon), and their nostalgic appeal ensures that they remain a popular choice for park visitors.
Klondike Bar
The Klondike Bar, a well-known ice cream treat, was introduced by the Isaly Dairy Company in 1922. While the Klondike Bar was technically created in Ohio, it was quickly adopted by Pittsburgh as a local favorite.
Pepperoni Rolls
Pepperoni rolls, which consist of pepperoni and sometimes cheese or other ingredients wrapped in dough and baked, were introduced to feed hungry coal miners in the early 1900s. Although the dish originated in West Virginia, it has become a popular meal in Pittsburgh, especially in the Strip District.
The Banana Split
Finally, the Banana Split, a classic ice cream dessert, is said to have been created in Latrobe, PA, at Tassel Pharmacy in 1904. This sweet treat has since become a favorite dessert in the Pittsburgh metro area and beyond.
Tessaro’s Cheeseburger
Tessaro’s, located in Bloomfield on Liberty Avenue, is infamous for its delicious burgers. Kelly Harrington, the owner, wanted to make an “honest hamburger” when he bought the place over two decades ago – and he did not disappoint. Whenever you hear someone in Pittsburgh mention burgers, Tessaro’s inevitably comes to mind. This eatery has its own butcher who creates the patties, and then they are cooked on the restaurant’s signature hardwood grill. It’s simple, yet incredibly mouthwatering – one of the best burgers you’ll ever have.
Moules et Frites at Point Brugge Cafe
Since its inception, Point Brugge has been a beloved part of East End’s dining experience. Many menu items are worth commending, especially the chocolate cake. However, the mussels (moules) hold a special place as the favorite. These moules come steamed in a variety of sauces, such as red curry and classic white wine, and are served with a half pound of delicious fries. An ideal meal for dunking and munching!
Mac & Cheese at Kelly’s Bar and Lounge
It is highly recommended to order the Mac & Cheese at Kelly’s Bar and Lounge right away when you sit down. Then, get yourself a beer and prepare to wait for the dish. Baking the delicacy requires about 20 minutes and it must be given time to cool down when served. Despite the period of time it takes for it to be ready, it is totally worth it. The small portion is quite cheesy and comes at only $5.
The Gobblerito at Mad Mex
The arrival of Mad Mex’s renowned “Gobblerito” marks the start of fall in Pittsburgh. This unique and delicious tortilla wrap is bursting with all the traditional tastes of Thanksgiving — house-roasted turkey, mashed black bean potatoes, stuffing, and corn, all smothered in gravy. And, just to add an extra zing, there’s also a side of tart cranberry sauce for the perfect finishing touch. But you’d better be quick if you want to try it, as the Gobblerito is only around for a short time after the holiday.
Fried Zucchini
Whether you choose to enjoy it as an appetizer or make it your main dish, you’ll soon understand why fried zucchini is a beloved Pittsburgh food staple. This dish can be found at pizzerias, casual dining spots, and high-end restaurants in various forms, including fried zucchini sticks and breaded zucchini slices.
Iron City Beer
Is beer food? In Pittsburgh, at times, it can be! Iron City Beer, a staple in the city since 1861, is widely recognized as one of the pinnacle symbols of the city of Pittsburgh. So… yes… it is a famous Pittsburgh food, especially when consumed with Mineo’s Pizza.
Pittsburgh is a city with a unique and vibrant culture, and its food is just as unique as its culture. From sandwiches to salads to noodles, Pittsburgh food has a variety of dishes to offer. Famous Pittsburgh food is a reflection of its culture, and a visit to the city would not be complete without trying some of the local fare. So if you’re looking to experience the flavors of Pittsburgh, make sure to sample these must-try foods. Whether you’re looking for a classic sandwich or a unique salad, Pittsburgh has something for everyone. So come and taste the flavors of Pittsburgh and experience the city’s unique cuisine.
