We all have that time where a diner will hit the spot—after a fun night out, a brunch with friends, or maybe when you just want a big juicy burger and fries or a hearty sandwich. We put together this list of the most delicious diners in Pittsburgh. If you know more, we want to know about them! Leave us a comment for a possible future post. There are great diners all over the Pittsburgh region, so let us know about your favorite spot for breakfast or brunch in Pittsburgh.
As the city of Pittsburgh continues to grow and evolve, so does its food scene. Among the many culinary delights in the city, diners hold a special place in the hearts of locals and visitors alike. These establishments offer comfort food and a warm atmosphere, making them the perfect place to enjoy a satisfying meal. In this article, we will guide you through some of the best diners in Pittsburgh that you must try. From classic, old-school establishments to trendy, modern eateries, these diners showcase the city’s diverse food culture.
Pamelas P&G Diner
Your quintessential diner in Pittsburgh, Pamela’s serves up its signature killer pancakes. For those interested in trying something different, fan favorites include a Tex-Mex omelet and lots of homemade hash items—the Pittsburgh hash isn’t for the faint of heart. It’s served with lyonnaise potatoes, kielbasa and sauerkraut and sprinkled with Swiss cheese. Pamela’s has six locations around Pittsburgh… The Strip District, Shadyside, and Mt. Lebanon.
Kelly O’s Diner
Kelly O’s in the Strip is quiet and unassuming, serving up standouts like a hearty steak omelet. For those with a sweet tooth, chocolate chip pancakes and the very hungry will adore a bacon, egg and cheese biscuit. This summer, head down for a red, white and blue patriotic waffle just in time for the 4th of July. Kelly O’s also has another location on Perry Highway in the North Hills.
After receiving praise from Guy Fieri on Diner’s Drive-Ins and Dives, Kelly O’s Diner in the Strip District has become a popular spot for both locals and tourists. Although there might be a wait for a table, it’s worth it to enjoy delicious dishes like the O.M.G Breakfast, which features two eggs, home fries or hash browns, and your choice of hot sausage, ham or kielbasa. The vibrant, colorful restaurant also has locations in North Hills and Warrendale. All locations are open daily for breakfast and lunch until 3:00 p.m., offering Triple D-approved dishes like halushki and fried mush with bacon. This is a diner in Pittsburgh worth the wait!
The Strip District original and its Robinson outpost have just enough quirkiness to them to make them unique diners in Pittsburgh. Their “Beam Me Up” Cosmic burger baskets are a must-try. If you aren’t terribly hungry, Deluca’s even offers a slider basket of three mini cheeseburgers on soft butter rolls and a special sauce. The Strip’s location has also been used as a movie set!
Dor-Stop
Dor-Stop is located in Dormont and was featured on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives. Current specials include a spicy Buffalo chicken hoagie, Lenten specials like crab benedict, a four-cheese grilled cheese, pierogies and more. Also, it’s worth it to go back for a second time for any of their eight different types of pancakes.
Gab & Eat
Gab & Eat truly lives up to their tagline—”Mouth-watering homemade food in Carnegie, PA.” There’s so many egg combinations it can be almost overwhelming, but the steak and eggs, toast and home fries are a good choice. They also offer an incredible lunch menu with sandwich choices for everyone, from grilled cheese with bacon, to fried salami, turkey and bacon and more.
Chev & Rachel’s Family Diner
This little Emsworth neighborhood favorite serves up delicious concoctions like a steak, goat cheese, spinach and sun dried tomato omelet or a decadent black bean and chicken soup perfect for the damp and chilly weather. Chev’s is open for breakfast and lunch Tuesday through Saturday from 7 a.m.-1:30 p.m. and Sundays they open at 8 just for breakfast.
Don’s Diner
This family-friendly establishment along Ohio River Boulevard serves up simple and delicious food. Nestled under a bridge in the Woods Run section of the North Side, Don’s Diner is a hidden gem that offers friendly service and generous portions. The extended breakfast menu includes classic diner dishes like omelettes and pancakes, while the lunch menu features cheeseburgers and club sandwiches. Don’t let its obscure location deter you – Don’s Diner is a must-visit diner in Pittsburgh.
Nancy’s Revival
With a phone number like 412-242-EGGS, you know the place has to be pretty amazing. Nancy’s in Wilkinsburg serves up breakfast with fun names like “The Fat Cat,” with two eggs, bacon, sausage, ham, grits or home fries, two pancakes or French toast and a slice or toast. Lunch includes a killer tuna sandwich and a “build yinz own” grilled cheese.
Cherries Diner
Located right off of Market Square in the heart of down town Pittsburgh, Cherries Diner is a classic joint serving all american food, savory and filling. The Kitchen Sink omelet, a favorite, is a massive 3 egg beast that contains peppers, onion, cheese, hash browns, and your choice of meat. You’ll leave this classic diner in Pittsburgh feeling wonderfully satisfied!
Ritter’s Diner
Ritter’s has been serving the Bloomfield and Shadyside areas of Pittsburgh since 1951. A late night staple, this classic diner in Pittsburgh serves everything from steak and eggs to french toast, burgers and spanikopita. A Pittsburgh tradition, Pittsburgh Beautiful can personally attest to the incredible atmosphere. To add to the ambiance, be sure to select a great tune from the old-time jukeboxes in some of the booths!
Breakfast at Shelly’s
Breakfast at Shelly’s in Allentown has quickly made a name for itself since opening in 2016. The cheerful diner, which formerly housed Pittsburgh mainstay Michelle’s Diner, offers breakfast and lunch platters and daily house specials. With affordable prices and a welcoming atmosphere, Breakfast at Shelly’s is a delightful addition to the Pittsburgh diner scene.
Valliant’s Diner
Open seven days a week, Valliant’s Diner in Ross Township serves up generous portions of breakfast and lunch options in a charming retro dining room. Enjoy classic breakfast dishes like bacon, eggs, and French toast, or opt for a filling lunch with two-handed burgers and old-fashioned favorites like fried bologna sandwiches. Don’t forget to check the daily specials board for unique offerings!
Johnny’s Diner
Johnny’s Diner in the West End has a long history and has gone through several iterations over the years. However, it has always maintained the true spirit of a diner with huge, no-frills breakfast platters of eggs, sausage, bacon, pancakes, and more. Open Monday through Saturday and cash-only, Johnny’s Diner is worth a visit for its delicious food and historical charm.
Bob’s Diner
With three locations in the Pittsburgh area (Castle Shannon, Kennedy Township, and Carnegie), it’s easy to find a Bob’s Diner near you. This popular chain offers all-day breakfast, as well as lunch and dinner options. Menu highlights include Mancini’s Raisin French Toast, Corned Beef and Hash, and a daily rotating quiche selection.
Barb’s Corner Kitchen
Barb’s Corner Kitchen in Upper Lawrenceville is a bright and cozy breakfast spot that places an emphasis on egg dishes. The menu offers a variety of egg sandwiches, eggs over easy, poached eggs, and omelettes, along with pancakes and waffles. For lunch, you’ll find classic fare like burgers and sandwiches, as well as a unique hot dog menu featuring several different styles of dogs.
Totin’s Diner
Totin’s Diner, previously an automobile shop, has been welcoming guests to its Wexford location seven days a week since 2009. Breakfast options range from Cinnamon Swirl French Toast to Kielbasa & Eggs. At lunch and dinner, patrons can select from a variety of hoagies, burgers, and homemade soups. As an added bonus, the restaurant has daily dinner specials, like Liver & Onions.
These diners in Pittsburgh offer a diverse range of flavors, atmospheres, and experiences, ensuring that there is something for everyone. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, be sure to explore these must-try diners in the city. From classic, old-school establishments to trendy, modern eateries, these diners are an essential part of Pittsburgh’s vibrant food culture. Of course, these are not the only great diners in Pittsburgh… if you have one you’d like to see on the list, leave a comment or shoot us an email! We’ll be happy to expand our list of Pittsburgh diners!
