Pittsburgh’s Best New Restaurants, Bars, Cafes, and Bakeries

Stay tuned as we update you on the newest places to grab a bite or bev in the Burgh 🤤📌 We organized these newest to oldest!

Loving what you read here? The City Cast Pittsburgh podcast publishes dedicated food shows every Thursday.

December 2025

The Strip District’s newest restaurant and nightlife lounge features a fusion of Mediterranean flavors and Asian cuisine. Get cozy in a plush velvet booth, sip on a themed cocktail, and vibe out to DJ sets on Friday and Saturday nights.

November 2025

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.

October 2025

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.

Sharpsburg's Dancing Gnome closed its old digs when it opened a big production facility and taproom down the street, but now the original spot is back open with a new name and look. “Nine Two Five” serves house-made cocktails with spirits produced in PA and tasty bites from Blue Sparrow.

September 2025

The Glenshaw bagel shop is on a roll. Catch Three Brothers Bagels’ new food truck around town serving breakfast sandwiches, smash burgers, and more on hand-rolled sourdough bagels. Tip: stop in the brick-and-mortar from 1-2 p.m. on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays for a dozen bagels at half-price. (They carry 13 varieties!)

This contemporary Latin restaurant in Sewickley takes inspiration from traditional Central and South American dishes. You can’t go wrong with the bright Peruvian ceviches or tamalitos made with stewed chicken and salsa roja. They both pair well with the rich flavors of Torogoz’s “Negroni Morada.”

This Bellevue shop is serving nostalgic comfort food with a Japanese twist. Order a corn dog coated in crispy ramen, potatoes, or (if you’re feeling brave) Hot Cheetos! The savory treat is begging to be paired with one of their boba teas. Don’t leave without a box of colorful, flower-shaped mochi donuts, made perfectly chewy with glutinous rice flour.

After years without a coffee shop in the neighborhood, Homestead finally has some fresh brews with the addition of Arabica Robusta Coffee House on Eighth Avenue. Stop by for a latte or espresso made with their special “Homestead Blend” beans roasted by Commonplace Coffee.

August 2025

Big Springs Spirits’ new six-story complex on the South Side has a rooftop bar with arguably the best view in the city. The Finch, named after the building’s original owner, offers small plates, signature cocktails, and panoramic vistas overlooking the Monongahela River. The complex also includes a huge dining and event space, a snazzy cigar bar, and room for possibility — future ideas include a music venue, a tasting room, an education space, and a food hall.

Keep your eyes peeled, or you just might miss it! This new coffee shop is on Stevenson Place, an alleyway on the border of Shadyside and East Liberty. Stop in for specials like a chocolate banana bread latte or ginger beer matcha.

The Forbes Avenue spot that was once home to Jian’s Kitchen and Northeastern Kitchen is bursting with flavor again. Tasty Noodle serves dishes from northwestern China and specializes in chewy, hand-pulled noodles. Order a comforting dish like spicy and sour pork noodle soup or green pepper stir fry over noodles.

July 2025

The owners of Everyday Noodles in Squirrel Hill have a new spot right down the street on Forbes Avenue, serving Shanghainese dishes like wonton soup, pan-fried pork buns, Yang Zhou fried rice, and stir-fried rice cakes. The menu is packed with veggie-friendly dishes!

The classic Pittsburgh brand opened its first brick-and-mortar in Moon. Order soups, salads, and breakfast items featuring their beloved breads — like a sausage, egg, and cheese on cinnamon swirl bread French toast.

The Vietnamese eatery and cafe now has a second location inside the new Enson Market in Point Breeze, so you can fuel up with a banh mi and iced coffee while you go shopping for your favorite Asian ingredients and snacks.

Whether you're craving hot pot or Korean barbeque, this new South Side spot has you covered. They have an exciting variety of meat and seafood options for Korean barbecue, and there are great hot pot options for vegetarians too. It's an all-you-can-eat joint, but there's a two-hour time limit for dining in and the restaurant can add a surcharge for food waste, so make sure you don't order more than you can handle!

East Carson Street is now home to a new Italian restaurant with some deep Pittsburgh ties — the chef's grandfather founded Sammy's Pizzeria in Sheraden. Snag some Italian classics like chicken parmesan and cacio e pepe or get adventurous with their parmesan beignets. Bonus: it's open on Mondays (unusual in Pittsburgh)!

June 2025

Step inside the historic YMCA building on Whitfield Street in East Liberty to find a chic neighborhood lounge with gorgeous crown molding, elegant chandeliers, velvet booth seating, and colorful stained glass-style windows. The menu features craft cocktails and zesty seasonal bites — like kimchi mac & cheese with five-spiced pork belly, a silken tofu rice bowl, and crispy eggplant.

The folks behind Fig & Ash in East Allegheny are now slinging burgers on E. Ohio Street, just a skip from their popular sit-down spot for seasonal dishes and craft cocktails. Get a classic smash burger with caramelized onions and “Shack Sauce” or a “Yinzer Cowboy” loaded with BBQ pulled pork.

Broad Street in East Liberty is now home to Pittsburgh’s first indoor-outdoor off-leash dog park, café, and bar with over 10,000 square feet of play space. Grab a cinnamon roll and coffee or a beer and sandwich to enjoy while your pup scampers off with new friends. Become a member or purchase a guest pass to bring your doggo, and make sure they’re up-to-date on vaccinations.

The popular sushi, sashimi, and poke bowl truck now has a permanent spot on South Highland Avenue in East Liberty. Get a taste of the ocean in Pittsburgh with the Jack ’n Yellow roll filled with yellowfin tuna, yellowtail, avocado, jalapeño chips, greens, and wasabi mayo — all wrapped in fresh nori.

Sink into a comforting bowl of curry or drunken noodles at this Thai spot on Broad Street in East Liberty — an expansion of their original location in Dormont. When the sun is out, order something refreshing like a spring roll, Thai iced coffee, or matcha cheesecake to enjoy on the patio.

May 2025

Bring some friends to Oakland so you can try all the buns and dumplings on the menu. The shrimp and chive cakes and crystal shrimp dumplings are stuffed with plenty of juicy seafood, and you can customize your bowl of noodles by choosing between ramen or udon, then picking a soup base. Don't skip out on the tea! Whether you order a pot or a fresh fruit tea, your meal's not complete without it.

The juicery and smoothie bar has locations in Homestead, Allegheny West, Regent Square, Robinson — and now Downtown. Their “Gold Rush” juice (orange, pineapple, carrot, ginger, and turmeric) is the perfect fix when you’re feeling under the weather.

Liberty Avenue in Bloomfield just got sweeter with the addition of this gluten-free bakeshop. Stop in for an oatmeal creme pie, brownie, cookie, gob, or cheesecake bite. You can preorder here, and pick up on Tuesdays, Fridays, or Saturdays.

Come hungry to the new Japanese eatery inside of the old Harris Grill on Fourth Avenue in Downtown. Look for a stacked menu with sushi, appetizers, hibachi, fried rice, and more. Oh, and did we mention they have rooftop dining?

This long-awaited pizza joint moved from White Oak and is now slinging classic and specialty pies on S. Braddock Avenue. We can’t wait to try the yellow margherita, made with Northern Italian cherry tomatoes, or a super stacked hoagie.

April 2025

Cap off your night in the Cultural District with sips and sweets at this bar on Penn Avenue — or go for dessert first (we won’t judge!). The menu has an extensive wine selection, perfect to pair with a fancy treat like lemon ricotta doughnuts with black pepper and rosemary pastry cream.

Craving a taste of comfort? Grab a natural-casing hot dog, juicy burger, or salty fries and onion rings inside this Bloomfield spot filled with retro charm. '70s paneling? Check. Orange diner booths? Check. Steel City memorabilia? Check. Milkshakes and root beer floats? Check, check!

March 2025

Head to North Oakland to get specialties like a pistachio latte, Qishr (light coffee with cardamom, ginger, cinnamon, and coffee husk), or Sanaai (classic black Yemeni coffee infused with cardamom). Don’t skip out on sweet treats like milk cake or pistachio basbosa, a syrup-soaked semolina cake topped with edible flowers.

The sandwich and sweet shop on East North Avenue in Central Northside has all of your lunchtime cravings, like caesar salad, a fig and smoked gouda chicken panini, a pastrami sandwich, and sides like potato salad and coleslaw. Don’t forget a cookie or cinnamon roll for the road!

The Chinese, Thai, and sushi restaurant moved from its former North Hills location to inside The Block Northway. Stop in after a day of shopping for dumplings, eggrolls, fried rice, curry, and more. We loved the Buddhist Delight, a mixed vegetable dish with garlic sauce.

February 2025

This food truck has been rolling around town for awhile, but they’ve added a new stop to their roaster. Find their Chz Burgher Egg Rolls and Blackened Gold Mac at New Amsterdam in Lawrenceville, Wednesday through Sunday. You can also find them at Velum Fermentation, Trace Brewing, and soon, Jackworth Ginger Beer.

January 2025

Check out this East Liberty spot for ramen made with homemade noodles and rich broth — plus savory sides like chili garlic edamame, pork bao buns, and purple sweet potato fries. Pair your meal with bubble tea or smoothie from the attached TBaar.

Enjoy a spread of Uzbek food at this Brookline eatery — juicy dumplings, smoky kebab, earthy borscht, and samsa, a flaky dough filled with savory ingredients like spiced lamb or pumpkin. Tip: It’s open until midnight!

It’s all pierogi all the time at this charming Sharpsburg cafe. Look for classic flavors like potato with cheddar or sauerkraut, plus new favorites like chicken pop pie pierogi. Pair these heavenly dumplings with kielbasa or house-made soup.

Don’t sleep in! This new bagel shop in Castle Shannon usually sells out by 11 a.m. on Fridays and the weekends. Pick from fun bagel flavors like asiago, seven seed, za’atar, and jalapeño cheddar, and slather it in cream cheese. (They have vegan options, too!) Stop in Wednesday through Sunday.

The Warhol’s Pop District on the North Side just got a boost with the addition of this veteran-owned coffee roaster, based out of Pitcairn. And it’s caffeine for a cause! A portion of Brave Bean’s sales goes to the Wounded Warrior Project.

December 2024

Fans of coffee and local baked goodies have a new favorite spot north of the city in Seven Fields. Look for all the classic Mediterra flavors like their decadent baked French toast (currently served with cinnamon apples!) and one of our all-time favorites — a lavender latte with oat milk.

Christian Frangiadis, executive chef and owner of Spork in Garfield, has a new vision for the restaurant that’s “designed to surprise and delight with each visit.” Instead of ordering à la carte, diners pay $275 to experience an eight-course tasting menu including wine and cocktail pairings. Be sure to budget a bit more for tax and tip!

A rotating buffet menu means that each visit to this new Oakland spot brings new flavors. But if you’re just looking for a quick bite, try the empanadas or a Cuban sandwich. Plus, enjoy beer, cocktails, and imported juices like passion fruit, guava, and mango.

November 2024

Normally you can find this New Mexican-inspired cuisine at events around town, but now they have a semi-permanent pop-up at Fat Cat in East Allegheny. Stop in on a live music night and get tacos with your choice of red chile chicken or green chile pork — or pack in all the goodness with a “bowlacosta.”

Head to Mt. Lebanon to try the hearty flavors of Uzbek cuisine — a blend of Turkic and Persian traditions — known for dishes like plov (rice pilaf), samsa (puff pastry stuffed with meat or vegetables), pemeni (crispy mini dumplings), and lagman (made with hand-pulled noodles).

Sharpsburg’s Main Street just got jazzed up with the new wine and music bar, open Wednesday through Saturday. Bring your friends for upscale tapas paired with carefully selected wines.

October 2024

Sarah McAlee has been serving bowls of comfort to Pittsburghers since her early days of selling soup on Instagram — and now she finally has her own shop on Liberty Avenue in Bloomfield. Snag a salad, sandwich, or soup — and don’t skip a bowl of sausage tortellini (her mom’s recipe) when it’s on the menu!

With creamy pasta dishes, meaty handhelds, and BOGO wing nights, Nothingman might be everything we need. The dinner-only restaurant fills the former Station spot on Penn Avenue in Bloomfield. We can’t wait to try their dressed up SpaghettiOs.

Bloomfield’s beloved Trace Brewing expanded with a new collaborative brewery and coffee shop in Uptown (aka the Bluff). Expect the same cozy taproom vibes and an outdoor space — but with the addition of a full espresso bar by Ghost Coffee Collab.

The old Hambone’s on Butler Street is now a new destination for casual American food, social life, and entertainment. Grab a drink at the full-service bar on the patio, then head inside to catch a show. (It can fit 500 people!) Not into nightlife? Brunch and lunch are coming soon!

Pups must be on their best behavior to roll over to this new full-service bar and off-leash “bark park” in the Strip District. Expect wine, beer, cocktails, and coffee, plus wifi and space for local food trucks. Drop in for a day or check out their monthly and yearly memberships.

An iconic local café originally founded in historic Harmony is now serving in Bellevue, too. Along with delicious coffee and their classic Wunderbar Mocha, look for savory, gluten free crepes like portobello or chorizo and gourmet sandwiches like the brisket brioche and “fried jumbo” — thick cut bologna with cheddar, tomato, and a dippy egg on sourdough. We’re especially fond of the havarti grilled cheese!

Bakery Square’s adding another restaurant to its lineup: a takeout sushi spot. Golden Gai is part of the Richard DeShantz Restaurant Group, which also owns Meat & Potatoes, Tako, and Coop De Ville. For now, customers can grab sushi and rice bowls as a preview of the full restaurant, and in the upcoming months, Golden Gai will be opening its space for dining in.

Butler Street has a new spot for small bites and wine by the bottle or glass — created by Aaron Gottesman and Tyler Borne, formerly of Meat & Potatoes. Find your favorite blend (or cocktail) to sip at the bar or on the patio!

September 2024

The beloved South Side cafe has a second location in Shadyside, offering favorites like gourmet grilled cheese, fruit smoothies, and special coffees — like a perfectly balanced honey oat latte. We hear they’re looking for local art!

There’s a new Mediterranean spot on Penn Avenue in Bloomfield where you can nosh on cold apps like hummus, baba ganoush, and grape leaves; hot apps like falafel; and entree kebabs with lamb, chicken, and veggies. We loved the haydari (thick homemade yogurt with chopped walnuts, garlic, dill, and mint) and piyez (white beans, red pepper, parsley, red onion, tomatoes, olive oil, and vinegar).

The French-inspired bakery café is whipping up cakes, pastries, donuts, and savory baked goods at the Block Northway in Ross Township. Another location is planned for Walnut Street in Shadyside.

Grab a Brew Gentlemen beer alongside Japanese and Hawaiian-inspired snacks, sandwiches, and shareables, right across from the U.S. Steel’s Edgar Thomson Works and inside the former Superior Motors.

The Mexican bakery in Mount Lebanon moved just a few doors down from its previous spot on Beverly Road. Now there’s space to serve sit-down breakfast, like concha toast and poblano omelets, in addition to their self-serve bakery.

This coffee shop brings fresh brews and baked goods to the Edgewood/Swissvale corridor. Order a latte made with Redhawk coffee and a treat by Wild Rise Bakery, then soak in the sunshine on the chic checkered patio.

This reopening is a true love story. After the iconic ice cream shop announced they were closing, Jason and Laura Kasten, along with their daughter Sara, reached out to the owner to reopen the shop that was the site of the couple’s first date. In the name of love, head to the Oakland shop and enjoy more than 200 flavors.

Find Mexican pastries at this new Monroeville bakery, meaning “sweet love” in Spanish. Enjoy a coffee and pan dulce (sweet bread) in the cafe lounge, or make a special cake order to-go.

August 2024

If you love browsing vintage clothing while sipping on a freshly brewed bev, this Shadyside spot is a must-visit. Head to the second floor above lululemon to find both fresh styles and flavors from the Heat Check’s thrift shop and The Boredom Set’s micro-roastery.

This new shop on Penn Avenue has a lovely patio where you can enjoy one, or many, of their tasty dishes, such as the Southern Pimento Cheese BLT or Mama’s Buttermilk Chicken Salad along with a coffee or matcha beverage. And a treat for educators: 10% on Teacher Tuesdays.

Bring your own bottle of wine when you sit down to enjoy Chef Ray’s family recipes in Upper St. Clair. The menu is inspired by his Italian-Irish-American heritage and fresh, local ingredients. You won’t want to miss the upcoming Supper Club — featuring rotating, family-style meals — where you can break bread with neighbors.

The Colombian-sourced coffee and cacao vendor known for his kiosk in the Strip District has moved into the old Adda Coffee & Tea House in Allegheny West. Their signature Mocha and “drinking chocolate” look especially tasty, and they have lots of coffee-brewing tools and merch so you can keep the flavor brewing at home.

Beetlejuice fans will dig this new burger, milkshake, and pinball spot in the basement of the Lawrenceville Market House. Grab a lavender vanilla boozy shake and play a game of Kickback Pinball!

Pull up a plush chair in sleek black-and-white surroundings at Speer’s, the latest offering from the same ownership group behind Kaufman Tavern in Zelienople and Breakneck Tavern in Mars. Sit at the bar for happy hour or dine by the wine caves on perfectly marbled steaks and fresh seafood, plus upscale surprises like caviar, oyster, and bacon tastings.

Have you fueled up at this coffee bar on wheels? The former owner of “Lil Blue” sold the truck last year, and it’s back on the road under new ownership, serving handcrafted tea, espresso, and coffee. Try seasonal flavors like the salted maple latte!

Head to Market Square and sit at the black-and-white tiled bar while you sample a cantaloupe aperol chronicle with a dozen wings in your choice of sauce. Don’t sleep on the bao buns or the chicken sandwiches!

July 2024

After seven years slinging wood-fried pies from a food truck, Alberta’s Pizzeria finally found a permanent home on Western Avenue in Allegheny West. Grab a seat at the bar or slide into a booth with friends to ‘salute’ with wine, share appetizers (highly recommended the fried zucchini frites!), and devour a perfectly crispy-yet-chewy slice of pizza.

The “pig rig,” aka food truck, is being parked, and the folks who dish out those delectable sandwiches and more are finally settling down. A new brick-and-mortar StuntPig restaurant opens its doors Thursday, June 27 at 1707 Murray Ave. in Squirrel Hill with all the fixings, including its celebrated cut, cured, and smoked meats — plus veggie options! Look for them Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays as they gradually expand to five days a week.

It’s not just a food truck anymore! Besides the Garfield and South Side locations, you can now get tasty tacos, burritos, and tostadas at a brick-and-mortar in Millvale. Don’t skip the adorable mini $1 street tacos!

With its two bars, main stage, patio, rooftop, and dining room, about 400 people can fit into the country music star’s new North Shore location. Aldean says he chose Pittsburgh because the city loves country, and he pays homage to our sports heritage with a television in nearly every corner. Look for comfort food like pot roast and Nashville hot chicken, as well as sweet summer flavors in cocktails named for his most popular songs.

Go to Allentown’s 70s time-capsule bar, Bottlerocket Social Hall, for comedy or music, then stick around for a pierogi dog from their new hot dog cart — and find it parked around town, too!

June 2024

The juicery and smoothie bar has locations in Homestead, Allegheny West, Regent Square, and Oakland — and now in Robinson. Their “Gold Rush” juice (orange, pineapple, carrot, ginger, and tumeric) is the perfect fix when you’re sick!

This national chain just opened its first location in Pittsburgh! Head over to Squirrel Hill to beat the heat with dessert bowls filled with fruit, ice cream, and other toppings like sago, lychee jelly, and rice balls. Mango Mango also serves up mille crepe cakes, mousse cakes, and waffles, or you can take a smoothie or a fruit tea to-go.

Get a taste of modern Indian cuisine over colorful communal tables in East Liberty. Start with chaat, the hors d'oeuvre of Indian food, like a samosa. Then order an entree, like a marinated lamb or chicken biryani, lentils, or vegetable curry.

May 2024

Co-owners Jack Smith and Tyler Lewis have built an historic respite on Hamilton Avenue in Larimer, right along the same path Jack’s grandfather — and the bar’s namesake — once drove a streetcar. The creative pair brew and serve three main products: a classic ginger beer and a spicy habanero alternative, plus an alcoholic fermented ginger beer. But don’t sleep on the cocktails! We love the Texas medicine, dark and stormy, and Moscow mule, and Jack says the daiquiri is the best thing on the menu.

Pittsburgh’s new Peruvian fusion restaurant is now operating inside City Kitchen. They have classics like ceviche, empanadas, and the legendary “pan con chicharrón,” a breakfast sandwich with pork belly, sweet potato, and salsa criolla.

Ever have a wood-fired pizza sandwich or “panuozzo”? It’s life changing. The couple behind the ‘77 Club pops up at breweries and events around town. Follow them to get your hands on the “Luana” with smoked tomato, mozzarella, arugula, and basil.

Prantl’s purchasing this Bellevue staple hasn’t changed much, and for that we are grateful. The classic baked goodies — especially those cookie assortments! — are just as good as ever, and they remain at the perfect height for kiddos crowding close to the glass. And good news: this means Pittsburgh’s favorite burnt almond torte now has another home.

April 2024

“Truck around and find aht,” say the folks slinging sandwiches from a black and yellow wagon. These aren’t just your run-of-the-mill sammies, as you might gather from glancing at the menu. You can find their schedule online.

You can choose your adventure at Shadyside’s “cocina del sur” (kitchen of the south) with gobs of build-your-own options and especiales including carne asada, tortas, tacos, and the classic chimichanga, plus ceviche and a margarita and cocktail menu sure to pack a punch. For wine lovers, try a Spanish red courtesy of Spill Wine Bar in Bloomfield.

The 6,000-square-foot food hall inside of an old 1890s warehouse brings fresh flavors to Lawrenceville with five food destinations. LOADED has burgers, corn dogs, and — what else? — loaded fries. TOMA plates up modern Italian fare. La Palapa, which has a location on the South Side, specializes in Mexican street food. And Cuddy’s Soul Food of Homewood gets a new home for its BBQ ribs, mac and cheese, collard greens, and more. Don’t forget dessert! Leona’s Ice Cream is scooping up your favorite (lactose free) flavors!

A fast casual spot with build-your-own bowls, salads, and wraps. They have three meat shawarma choices and a falafel option that you can top with up to five toppings, a good spread of sides, and even smash burgers.

Green tea fans will love this new drink and dessert menu in Squirrel Hill. Cool off with matcha soft serve, make your own parfait with mochi and red bean, or get a classic latte with flavors like strawberry, black sesame, and lavender.

You can get breakfast, lunch, coffee, and a variety of baked goods — like tahini brownies or buttermilk scones — at the new spot on Penn Avenue. Plus, order a specialty cake for your next occasion! But it isn’t just a cafe and bakery; it’s a co-op and teaching kitchen with classes like “Sourdough 101” and “Cook the Cookbook: Recipes of the Barefoot Contessa.”

Smallman Street has a new coffee shop, a North-Carolina-based chain that hires people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Grab a pastry, coffee, or smoothie to-go for your next shopping trip in the Strip District.

No more boring coffee for your commutes through McCandless — not when you can customize your caffeine order with cold foam and boba and pair it with a burrito-bagel. Chillin’ also serves up frozen coffee shakes (“chillers”), Italian cream sodas, and lotus energy drinks.

March 2024

The Terminal in the Strip District doesn’t have just one new Asian restaurant, but seven dining concepts with everything from Korean delicacies to Vietnamese street food. The Novo Asian Food Hall is home to Sumi’s Cakery, Teachana, Korea Garden 2, Kung Fu Chicken, Tan Lac Vien, Mola, and Lolo’s Kusina.

If you’re shopping on McNight Road, stop for Chinese food in McIntyre Square — homemade dumplings and bao, cold and hot noodle dishes, noodle soups, rice bowls, and more.

On the South Shore, OTARU is serving up boxes of chef selections and, if you’re feeling interactive, handroll sets you make yourself. They’ve also got “Specialty Sips” for sitting back and enjoying the earth-toned ambiance and view of the city.

Mt. Oliver Borough has a new bar. Co Z Tavern moved into the old Hofbrau building earlier this year. Hit up this spot on Brownsville Road for those days you want to “chillax” with a cold one, free popcorn, tunes on the jukebox, and great sports on the tube.

The beloved pop-up from James Beard-nominated chef Nik Forsberg and Sarah LaPonte landed a permanent home in Bloomfield back in March, and it’s just hitting its stride. Fill yourself with oysters and Nordic-inspired creations, or invite a friend to come sip through the impressive wine list under the scarlet light.

February 2024

The beloved Dormont breakfast joint is under new ownership. Now, when you step inside you’re greeted by a giant Guy Fieri mural. (Dor-Stop was featured on “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives.”) Enjoy massive plates of hot cakes and French toast with specialty flavorings — think raspberry, apple walnut, and pumpkin. Or, sleep late and add an egg to one of their burgers, which clearly makes it a breakfast item.

Senza Bakeshop and Cafe is the brainchild of former Bar Marco chef Jessie Manowski and her husband, Matthew. They opened their intimate cafe in Etna earlier this year. Senza means “without” in Italian, and according to the owners, they’re creating a restaurant without boundaries for their menu. While their eclectic offerings are subject to Jessie’s creative whims, Senza’s delicious pastries are a constant. Senza is open Fridays from 12 to 8 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The new Middle Eastern and international foods market in Centre Heldman Plaza gives the Hill District its first grocery store in five years. Stop in for fresh produce, halal meats, and global ingredients or head to the Market and Grill in the Strip District for samosas, burgers, and hot home-cooked meals to-go.

This East Carson Street spot is sure to become a late-night hangout; it’s open until 11 p.m., Sunday through Thursday, and 2 a.m. on Friday and Saturday. Grab a drink, sit on the patio, and dig into some wings, smash burgers, or a classic Pittsburgh salad.

January 2024

You’ll want to spend a morning at this Brentwood pancake haven. Order a flight of pancakes — flavors include pineapple upside down, peach cobbler, and cinnamon swirl — or get a custom omelet stuffed with meat and veggies.

Sometimes you simply require a garbage plate. PileZ in Oakland delivers on the pile o’ food promise — you can even design your own pile of ingredients — as well as serving up “sandoz” of chicken sliders and the “only burger” if you’re in the mood for something more basic.

Spanish-style tapas fans have a new go-to place at Barcelona Wine Bar, a rustic and cozy eatery serving Mediterranean, Spanish, and South American cuisine and an impressive selection of nearly 400 wines. I’ve tried all but four of their charcuterie & cheese platters and have yet to be disappointed.

December 2023

Imagine you want an all-you-can-eat sushi meal but you’re also conscious of food waste. The solution: the made-to-order Pacific Experience at KuJiRa Sushi & Bar. This Shadyside restaurant isn’t just for testing our sushi-limits though, it also has the rolls and tempura plates for every pallet, and Japanese soups you can tailor to your preferences.

In the center of Coraopolis, Queen Beans Cafe is bright and spacious, and even offers a drive-thru if you’re in a rush. They’ve got sweet rolls and great bagel options, and also offer custom sugar cookies and gourmet variety boxes for your next cookie table.

Thinking about hitting up a plant store? Or maybe grabbing a drink? At the Greenhouse Co-Op in Greenfield, you can do both! Browse the verdant market while you sip on cider fermented from local products — or nonalcoholic sweet cider and juice spritzers.

November 2023

This isn’t just any space-themed bar, it’s an immersive cocktail destination designed by two sci-fi lovers. Drink highlights include The Fifth Ele-Mint, a smokey gin and sake combo, and Dark Side of the Moon, a dessert bourbon cocktail with dulce de leche ice cream. They also have cider, beer, and wine.

Zhelyazko “Jak” Latinov brings a taste of Bulgaria to Main Street in Bloomfield. Try Kifla, a traditional yeasted roll in flavors like rosehip, cinnamon sugar, nutella, and halva or the Banista, a flakey and buttery phyllo-based pastry in flavors like pumpkin or apple walnut.

Come to Fox Chapel’s Curbside for the breakfast sammies with house-made bang bang sauce, and then come back again, braving the high-energy rush hours, to try the seasonal smoothies with names like “Guavacado” or “Morning Commute” and to sample each month’s specialty lattes — July’s are pie themed.