Pittsburgh’s Hidden Gems: Unique Food Trucks and Street Eats
Pittsburgh is a city that’s constantly evolving, and nowhere is that more evident than in its food scene. While the city is famous for its traditional dishes like the Primanti Brothers sandwich and pierogies, there’s a whole world of culinary creativity happening on the streets. Food trucks and street vendors across Pittsburgh are serving up unique, mouth-watering dishes that are worth tracking down.
In this post, we’ll explore some of the city’s hidden gems in the world of food trucks and street eats—perfect for anyone looking to taste the more adventurous side of Pittsburgh’s food culture.
1. PGH Pierogi Truck: A Modern Twist on a Classic
Pierogies are a beloved part of Pittsburgh’s culinary heritage, but the PGH Pierogi Truck takes this classic dish to new heights. This food truck offers traditional pierogies with a modern twist, serving them with a variety of creative fillings and toppings. From the classic potato and cheese to more adventurous options like buffalo chicken or jalapeño popper, the PGH Pierogi Truck is a must-visit for pierogi lovers.
Why It’s a Hidden Gem: The PGH Pierogi Truck is a perfect blend of tradition and innovation, offering familiar flavors with a modern twist. Their pierogies are handmade and cooked to perfection, providing a comforting yet exciting culinary experience. The truck often parks at popular events and neighborhoods around the city, making it a fun and accessible way to enjoy one of Pittsburgh’s most iconic foods.
2. BRGR Truck: Gourmet Burgers on the Go
For those who crave a juicy, flavorful burger, the BRGR Truck delivers gourmet quality in a mobile format. Known for their creative burger combinations and top-notch ingredients, BRGR offers everything from classic cheeseburgers to more inventive options like the “Fire in the Hole,” which features spicy pepper jack cheese, jalapeños, and sriracha aioli. They also serve up crispy fries, milkshakes, and more, making this food truck a one-stop shop for comfort food lovers.
Why It’s a Hidden Gem: The BRGR Truck is all about quality and creativity. Each burger is made with care, featuring locally sourced ingredients and house-made sauces. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic or want to try one of their inventive creations, the BRGR Truck offers a gourmet experience that’s hard to beat. Plus, following their truck on social media is half the fun, as you never know which neighborhood they’ll pop up in next.
3. La Palapa: Authentic Mexican Street Food
If you’re craving authentic Mexican flavors, look no further than La Palapa’s food truck. Specializing in traditional Mexican street food, this truck serves up everything from tacos and quesadillas to tamales and elotes (Mexican street corn). The flavors are bold, fresh, and true to their roots, making La Palapa a favorite among Pittsburgh’s food truck enthusiasts.
Why It’s a Hidden Gem: La Palapa stands out for its commitment to authenticity. The ingredients are fresh, the recipes are traditional, and the flavors are vibrant. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic carne asada taco or want to try something new like their cactus quesadilla, La Palapa offers a taste of Mexico right in the heart of Pittsburgh. The truck can often be found at local farmers’ markets, festivals, and popular neighborhoods.
4. Mac & Gold Truck: Gourmet Mac and Cheese
Mac & Gold takes the ultimate comfort food—mac and cheese—and elevates it to gourmet status. This food truck offers a variety of mac and cheese dishes with creative toppings like bacon, crab meat, and truffle oil. Whether you’re a purist who likes your mac and cheese classic and cheesy or an adventurer looking to try the “Pittsburgher” with kielbasa and sauerkraut, the Mac & Gold Truck has something for everyone.
Why It’s a Hidden Gem: The Mac & Gold Truck is all about indulgence. Each dish is rich, creamy, and packed with flavor, making it a go-to for comfort food lovers. The truck’s creative twists on mac and cheese keep the menu exciting and cater to a wide range of tastes. It’s a food truck that takes a beloved classic and makes it even better.
5. Franktuary: Pittsburgh’s Gourmet Hot Dog Haven
Franktuary is a food truck that specializes in gourmet hot dogs, offering a menu that goes far beyond the usual ketchup and mustard. Their hot dogs are made with high-quality meats and are topped with everything from avocado and salsa to bacon and bleu cheese. They even offer vegan options, ensuring that everyone can enjoy their creative takes on the classic American hot dog.
Why It’s a Hidden Gem: Franktuary combines the familiarity of a hot dog with gourmet ingredients and inventive toppings. Each hot dog is a unique creation, offering bold flavors and unexpected combinations. Whether you’re a traditionalist or looking to try something new, Franktuary delivers a delicious experience in every bite. It’s a food truck that redefines what a hot dog can be.
Conclusion
Pittsburgh’s food truck scene is thriving, offering a diverse array of flavors and culinary experiences. From modern twists on traditional dishes to gourmet comfort foods, these hidden gems on wheels are a testament to the city’s creativity and passion for great food. Next time you’re in Pittsburgh, keep an eye out for these food trucks—they’re serving up some of the best bites in the city, one street at a time.
