Pittsburgh’s Ethnic Eats: A Culinary Tour of the City’s Diverse Food Scene

Pittsburgh is a city rich in history, culture, and most importantly, flavor. The Steel City’s food scene is a melting pot of ethnic cuisines, each bringing its own unique taste and traditions to the table. From Italian and Polish to Middle Eastern and Asian, Pittsburgh’s culinary landscape is a reflection of its diverse communities. Whether you’re craving hearty pierogies or spicy pho, Pittsburgh offers a world of flavors waiting to be explored.

Join us on a culinary tour of the city’s ethnic eats, and discover the best spots for authentic and delicious global cuisine.

1. Italian Cuisine: A Taste of the Old World

Pittsburgh’s Italian roots run deep, with a large Italian-American community that has shaped the city’s food scene for generations. Italian cuisine in Pittsburgh is all about tradition, family recipes, and hearty, comforting dishes.

Must-Try Spots:

• Lidia’s Pittsburgh: Located in the Strip District, Lidia’s is a popular spot for traditional Italian fare. From homemade pasta to rich risottos, this restaurant offers a true taste of Italy. Don’t miss their famous pasta trio, where you can sample three different pastas made fresh daily.
• DiAnoia’s Eatery: This modern Italian eatery in the Strip District is known for its delicious house-made pasta, creative cocktails, and cozy atmosphere. Whether you’re in the mood for classic spaghetti and meatballs or a more adventurous squid ink pasta, DiAnoia’s has something for everyone.

Dishes to Try:

• Pasta Fagioli: A comforting soup made with pasta, beans, and vegetables in a savory broth.
• Cannoli: A classic Italian dessert featuring a crispy shell filled with sweet ricotta cheese and chocolate chips.

2. Polish Cuisine: A Taste of Tradition

Pittsburgh has a strong Polish heritage, and you can taste it in the city’s delicious Polish cuisine. From pierogies to kielbasa, Polish food in Pittsburgh is all about hearty, flavorful dishes that are perfect for any occasion.

Must-Try Spots:

• S&D Polish Deli: Located in the Strip District, S&D Polish Deli is a go-to spot for authentic Polish food. Their pierogies are legendary, and they offer a variety of fillings, from classic potato and cheese to sweet fruit-filled options.
• Bloomfield Bridge Tavern: A beloved spot for Polish comfort food, this tavern offers a menu full of traditional Polish dishes, including kielbasa, haluski, and stuffed cabbage rolls.

Dishes to Try:

• Pierogies: Doughy dumplings filled with various ingredients such as potatoes, cheese, or sauerkraut, often served with sautéed onions and sour cream.
• Kielbasa: A type of Polish sausage, typically made from pork, seasoned with garlic and other spices.

3. Middle Eastern Cuisine: A Fusion of Flavors

Middle Eastern cuisine has found a warm welcome in Pittsburgh, offering a fusion of flavors that are both exotic and comforting. From hummus to shawarma, the city’s Middle Eastern restaurants serve up dishes that are rich in spices and steeped in tradition.

Must-Try Spots:

• Kaya: Located in the Strip District, Kaya offers a vibrant atmosphere and a menu inspired by the flavors of the Caribbean and Middle East. Their lamb shawarma and falafel are crowd favorites.
• Salem’s Market and Grill: Also in the Strip District, Salem’s is known for its delicious halal food, including kebabs, shawarma, and gyros. Their fresh, flavorful dishes are perfect for a quick lunch or a casual dinner.

Dishes to Try:

• Hummus: A creamy dip made from blended chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic, often served with pita bread.
• Falafel: Deep-fried balls made from ground chickpeas or fava beans, typically served in a pita with salad and sauce.

4. Asian Cuisine: A Journey Through the East

Pittsburgh’s Asian food scene is as diverse as it is delicious, offering everything from traditional Chinese dishes to trendy sushi spots and authentic Vietnamese pho.

Must-Try Spots:

• Banh Mi & Ti: Located in Lawrenceville, this Vietnamese eatery is famous for its banh mi sandwiches and pho. The flavors are fresh, vibrant, and packed with the authentic taste of Vietnam.
• Everyday Noodles: In Squirrel Hill, Everyday Noodles specializes in hand-pulled noodles and dumplings. The open kitchen allows diners to watch as their noodles are made fresh to order, adding an element of excitement to the dining experience.

Dishes to Try:

• Pho: A traditional Vietnamese soup consisting of broth, rice noodles, herbs, and meat, typically beef or chicken.
• Sushi: A Japanese dish featuring vinegared rice accompanied by various ingredients, such as seafood, vegetables, and sometimes tropical fruits.

5. Eastern European Cuisine: Comfort Food at Its Best

Pittsburgh’s Eastern European food scene is full of comforting, hearty dishes that are perfect for the city’s cold winters. From Hungarian goulash to Russian borscht, these dishes are rich in flavor and history.

Must-Try Spots:

• Kaya’s Eastern European Night: This special event at Kaya features dishes inspired by Eastern European cuisine, offering a taste of Hungary, Poland, and Russia in one meal.
• Apteka: This vegan restaurant in Bloomfield offers a modern twist on Eastern European dishes. Their menu features creative plant-based versions of traditional dishes like pierogi and schnitzel.

Dishes to Try:

• Goulash: A Hungarian stew made with meat, typically beef, and seasoned with paprika and other spices.
• Borscht: A beet soup that is popular in many Eastern European countries, often served hot or cold, and topped with sour cream.

6. African Cuisine: A World of Bold Flavors

African cuisine is a lesser-known but growing part of Pittsburgh’s food scene. With its bold spices and vibrant flavors, African food offers a taste of the continent’s rich culinary traditions.

Must-Try Spots:

• Tana Ethiopian Cuisine: Located in East Liberty, Tana offers a taste of Ethiopia with its traditional dishes served on injera, a sourdough flatbread. The restaurant’s warm atmosphere and communal dining style make it a perfect spot for trying something new.
• La Gourmandine: This French-African bakery in Lawrenceville offers a variety of pastries and breads, as well as savory dishes influenced by African cuisine. Their meat pies and savory pastries are a must-try.

Dishes to Try:

• Injera with Doro Wat: A traditional Ethiopian dish consisting of injera (a spongy flatbread) served with doro wat (a spicy chicken stew).
• Jollof Rice: A popular West African dish made with rice, tomatoes, onions, and spices, often served with meat or fish.

Conclusion

Pittsburgh’s food scene is a vibrant tapestry woven from the many cultures that call the city home. From Italian and Polish comfort foods to the bold flavors of Middle Eastern and African cuisine, the city offers a world of culinary experiences. Whether you’re a lifelong resident or just visiting, exploring Pittsburgh’s ethnic eats is a delicious way to experience the city’s rich cultural diversity. So next time you’re looking for a meal that’s both flavorful and full of history, consider trying one of these ethnic cuisines—you won’t be disappointed!