Earlier this year, Pittsburgh-born actor Joe Manganiello boldly claimed that “pizza in Pittsburgh is better than New York” on David Chang’s Netflix Show “Dinner Time Live.”
That’s a hot take we’d be foolish to debate. But it’s no secret that Pittsburgh has some standout pies — including a new spot that’s, ironically, based in New York City and now located in Manganiello’s hometown of Mt. Lebanon.
Renowned chefs Frank Falcinelli and Frank Castronovo, known as “The Franks,” said they wanted to open F&F Pizzeria in Pittsburgh because of the city’s thriving pizza culture and their connections to local culinary friends.
It’s The Franks’ first location outside of their Brooklyn-famous eatery, and word is they’re already planning a second location in the Burgh.
Try one of these new and coming-soon pizza spots (including my personal favorite).
The Franks transformed the former Bado’s on Beverly Avenue into a stylish restaurant and bar, serving their Brooklyn-famous pizza known for its naturally fermented crust. The pies feel fresh yet traditional, taking inspiration from both Neapolitan and NY styles. Go for the pizza, but don’t skip the small plates like arancini, greens and beans, and vodka rigatoni.
Take it from the experts: Falcinelli told City Cast Pittsburgh his favorite is the Tomato Pie. “I love the simplicity,” he said. Castronovo loves the Partanna with red onions and calabrian chili. “It's the perfect amount of cheese, vegetables, and spice. It's a balanced bite.”
The next time you’re seeing a show at this Lawrenceville venue, plan some extra time to grab pizza beforehand. With an entrance at the back of the house, it feels like a hidden speakeasy. Get a cocktail or nonalcoholic drink at the bar, slide into a cozy booth, and dig into a classic white pizza topped with caramelized onion.
The Oaklander Hotel on Bigelow Boulevard will soon have a new restaurant serving Neapolitan pies and an impressive wine selection. Executive Chef Kristin Butterworth, formerly of Nemacolin's Lautrec, will lead the team with her fine dining chops and roots in Italian cooking. It’s anticipated to open this month.
The pizza pop-up known for its deep square slices is getting a brick-and-mortar on Butler Street in Lawrenceville, and it’s expected to open in spring 2026. Their building has a clever sign that says “your new favorite corner” because everyone gets a corner slice at this new corner spot. Keep an eye out for pop-ups at Field Day.
Dan Tomcik parks his electric oven outside of Allegheny City Brewing in East Allegheny every second Monday of the month — or what I like to call “Munsday.” His “yinzerpolitan street pizza” has a crust that’s perfectly chewy, airy, and crispy, and the tomato sauce strikes a great balance between sweet and savory. Lucky us: Muns Pizza is working to open a brick-and-mortar on the North Side.
