We are all familiar with the restaurants in Oakland, and they are all amazing in their own way. However, if you want to get out of the area, here are some of the best restaurants in a few surrounding Pittsburgh neighborhoods.
Downtown
Burgatory
While we hold Stack’d near and dear to our hearts, Burgatory’s burgers are incredible! You fill out order slips like you would at Stack’d to create your ultimate burger. They have endless burger options, toppings, sauces, sides, and milkshakes. There are two downtown locations, conveniently next to Heinz Field and PPG Paints Arena. After enjoying a great sports game, head over to Burgatory with your friends!
Proper Brick Oven and Tap Room
Proper Brick Oven and Tap Room is the best place in the ‘burgh to devour quality Italian eats. The menu includes pasta dishes, brick oven pizzas, fresh salads, desserts, and more! The pizzas are cooked to perfection and toppings are endless such as their Ocean pizza, covered in seafood, or the Carnivore. When you go to Proper, you must try the Bacon candy: Smoked strips of bacon are coated with a brown sugar glaze, the perfect combo of sweet and savory. Mason jar lights, warm tones, wooden tables, and brick walls create a cozy yet trendy space to dine in.
Proper is near the corner of 7th and Penn Ave. If you are taking the bus, the 61A is your best bet. Prepare for a wait on the weekends, but it is definitely worth it. It is a little pricey so round up your friends to share pizza and salad, making the bill affordable for everyone.
Diamond Market Bar and Grill
If you are craving some comfort food in a casual, fun atmosphere, head on over to Diamond Market Bar and Grill! This restaurant is located in Market Square, a short walk away from any of the 61 and 71 bus stops. You can eat inside or enjoy your food on the patio in the square. Pricing is very reasonable for your college budget and for the quality of food that you are getting. I recommend their sandwiches, especially the BBQ brisket sandwich!
Lawrenceville
The Abbey on Butler Street
There’s something for everyone at the Abbey, as it is part coffeehouse, part pub, and part bistro. The menu has unique items, like shepherd’s pie and a chicken and waffle sandwich. However, they also serve burgers and mac n’ cheese, so there’s something for everyone. Plus, they do Sunday brunch! The Abbey also has a great atmosphere and lots of seating options, including a sunroom and an outdoor patio when it’s nice out. Make sure to save room for dessert, because their brownies are warm, rich, and topped with ice cream. You can get to the Abbey by taking the 93 from campus.
Tessaro’s
This is a restaurant with a fun atmosphere and delicious, classic food. Tessaro’s is best known for their massive, unique burgers, like the “Breakfast Burger,” or the “Bacon and Bleu Burger.” They also have an impressive selection of sandwiches. Either the 54 or 93 will get you there.
Southside
Hofbräuhaus
Located right behind The Cheesecake Factory in SouthSide Works is Hofbräuhaus, modeled after the famous beer hall in Munich, Germany. Go to Hof for some classic German cuisine and $6 pints for those 21+ on Thursday nights. My personal favorites are the spaetzel and apple strudel. There is also live entertainment in the beer hall, which is always fun. The 75 will take you to the SouthSide Works.
Mallorca
If you’re in the mood for Mediterranean, try out Mallorca, which is right across the street when you get off the Birmingham Bridge (the 54 and 75 will take you there). On the more on the expensive side for college students, this place is great for date night or when your parents come to town.
There you have it; these are some of our favorite restaurants when you want to get out of Oakland and try something new.