If you’ve been away from Pittsburgh’s dining scene over the past two years, now’s a great time to check out all the new food concepts that have popped up during the pandemic. In 2022, there are more than a dozen hot spots opening where you can drink up. Now here’s our list of places to chow down.
NOW OPEN
Barcadia, 25 Market Square, Downtown
Located above The Market Exchange, Barcadia features 35 arcade games, signature cocktails at the bar, DJs every Friday and Saturday night, and a full menu from Market Square neighbor Slider Vibes.
BB & Burr Pastry Kitchen and Bakery, 317 S. Trenton Ave., Wilkinsburg
Got a hankering for Little Debbie treats, but want to support a local business? Indulge your sweet tooth at BB & Burr. Married couple Ben Fine and Will Marrow make desserts reminiscent of famous snack cakes, but with all-natural ingredients. You can also get made-to-order cakes, brownies, tarts and coffee from Mechanic Coffee Co. in Verona.
Bob’s Diner, 1815 McKees Rocks Rd., Kennedy Township
Bob’s recently closed its cramped Kennedy Township location and moved a few feet away to a larger, brighter storefront. Reintroduce yourself to one of Pittsburgh’s most beloved breakfast spots by ordering Bob’s Bountiful Breakfast: two eggs any style, home fries, toast and your choice of meat.
Driven at Federal Galley, 200 Children’s Way, North Side
Detroit-style pizza is taking over the Burgh and Driven is the latest local maker specializing in the thick-crust, rectangular pies. Enjoy traditional toppings or stop by the food hall early for a brunch pizza, such as the Big Country with sausage, ham, bacon, cheddar cheese and two eggs.
Echt Coffeehouse, 107 Penn Ave., Mount Oliver
Echt is a lot of things: a coffee house with a micro-roastery, a bistro and a distillery. Look for a full story on the place soon. In the meantime, explore the website to see all the wonders the converted fire station holds.
Gussy’s Bagels, 3606 Fifth Ave., Oakland
After a long career in fine dining, Scott Walton is now up at the crack of dawn making New York City-style bagels and deli soups, sides and sandwiches.
The Halal Guys, 3621 Forbes Ave., Oakland
Launched in 1990 to meet the demand for halal (an Arabic word that means lawful or permitted) food in New York City, The Halal Guys chose to open their 100th location in Pittsburgh. The fast-casual concept serves baba ghanoush, hummus, gyros, sandwiches and platters.
M.A.D. Bar, 736 Bellefonte St., Second Floor, Shadyside
An evening at M.A.D. is sure to improve your mood. The music and dance bar is open Thursday through Sunday for DJ-fueled fun.
Shorty’s Pins x Pints, 353 North Shore Dr., North Shore
The former Tilted Kilt Pub is now a grownup playground. Play duckpin bowling, bocce, corn hole and classic arcade games while enjoying beers, signature drinks and handheld bites served out of a modified shipping container. Shorty’s Tap x Taco, which will feature different activities and a larger menu, is coming to The Waterfront in June.
Viva Los Tacos, 3901 Forbes Ave., Oakland
Hot dog! Viva Los Tacos is now open in the iconic “O” building. You’ll find a variety of MexiCali street tacos, margaritas and tequilas. Still hungry? Try Capriotti’s Sandwich Shop upstairs.
Wild Ninja Asian Grill, 210 Oakland Ave., Oakland
The former Uncle Sam’s Subs is now your destination for hibachi entrees, spring rolls, cheese wontons, tempura shrimp and more tasty Asian cuisine.