Dining: From formal to casual
Many of these local restaurants were reviewed either by the Post-Gazette dining critic, Elizabeth Downer, or the PG's Munch, an anonymous critic of food fare of a more modest, less expensive sort. Where the restaurants were reviewed by staffers, there's a Web link to the review. Most franchise and fast-food restaurants, pizza places, delis and other establishments are not included, and neighborhoods listed are relatively close to PNC Park. Menus and prices are subject to change. Also, some bar-restaurants can be found under the "Nightlife" heading.The menu offers an array of pasta dishes, sandwiches, burgers and wraps, along with rather typical appetizers, including shrimp cocktail and Buffalo wings.
24 Market Square, 412-471-1902. Read review
ASIAGO
Euro Cuisine explores the world through extensive wine and carte du jour selections. Asiago Express, in the plaza at One Oxford, is a takeout version of Asiago Euro Cuisine.
One Oxford Centre, 412-392-0225.
AUGUST HENRY'S
Tavern staples like onion rings and chicken wings lead off the appetizer menu, which includes Pittsburgh pierogies. Comfort food is the main entree fare. (August Henry Mathias is the great-grandfather of the bar's owners.)
946 Penn Ave., 412-765-3270. Read review
BIGELOW GRILLE
A modern American menu focusing on Pittsburgh ethnic fare and local fresh ingredients. A talented chef and friendly wait-staff team up to make this a special dining experience.
One Bigelow Square, Doubletree Hotel, 412-281-5013.
BOSSA NOVA
The night spot near the Benedum Center and other cultural hot spots serves tapas with a noteworthy assortment of cocktails, martinis and specialty drinks
123 Seventh St., Downtown; 412-232-3030. Read review
BRAVO FRANCO
Italian fare in the heart of the Cultural District and just across the street from Heinz Hall. Last dinner orders are at midnight Fridays and Saturdays.
613 Penn Ave., 412-642-6677.
BUON GIORNO CAFE
Buon Giorno's cooks up Italian-style homemade foods, such as pastas, focaccia sandwiches, mixed greens salads and more.
5 Market Square (412-471-9158), 6 Smithfield St. (412-471-9048) and 20 Stanwix St. (412-281-2980).
CAFE MILANO
Cafe Milano's huge menu lists 20 hoagies, lots of calzones, wedgies and pastas, plus a variety of pizzas.
134 Sixth St, 412-281-3131.
CAFE ZAO
The latest restaurant from Pittsburgh chef Toni Pais features Portuguese cross-cultural cuisine for lunch and dinner. The upscale restaurant provides a sophisticated setting in the heart of the theater district.
649 Penn Ave., Cultural District's Theater Square; 412-325-7007.
CAFFE AMANTE
At the top of the escalator and separated from the Fifth Avenue Place food court is an quiet Italian restaurant that serves lunch and dinner.
Fifth Avenue Place, 412-391-1226.
THE CARLTON
A Pittsburgh institution for great service and an amazing wine list in a clubby atmosphere. The menu changes daily, and the noise level is comfortable. Entrees can run $10-$16 at lunch, $25-$37 at dinner.
One Mellon Bank Center, Downtown; 412-391-4099. Read review
CIAO BABY
A happening place for lunch and a quiet retreat for dinner, serving exceptionally well-prepared Italian cuisine. Service fluctuates from totally professional to ultra-friendly, a bit on the casual side, depending on who you get. Comfortable noise level and vegetarian friendly.
435 Market St., 412-281-7400. Read review
CHINATOWN INN
Full range of Chinese dishes, with emphasis on Cantonese cuisine.
522 3rd Ave., 412-261-1292. Read review
CHRISTOS' MEDITERRANEAN GRILL
All you need to know about this gem and its Greek specialties is that Christos Melacrinos' signature dessert, vanilla cake topped with honey syrup, custard and whipped cream, was a favorite of Jackie O's.
130 Sixth St., 412-261-6442.
THE COMMON PLEA
Continental cuisine with a heavy Italian influence served in elegant surroundings. Interesting wines by the bottle or the glass.
308 Ross St., 412-281-5140. Read review
FOOD COURTS: Most convenient are Fifth Avenue Place, on Stanwix Street between Penn and Liberty avenues, and PPG Place, between Market Square and PPG Plaza (depending on the season, there's a computer-operated fountain or ice rink at its center).
THE GARDEN CAFE AT HEINZ HALL
Lunches of soups, salads, club sandwiches, a veggie wrap, grilled burgers and freshly brewed iced tea and lemonade, all served weather permitting.
Sixth and Liberty, 412-392-4879.
GREEN MANGO
A fusion of traditional Thai ingredients and modern grilling.
410 First Ave., 412-261-4166.
THE GRILLE ON SEVENTH
Convenient to the Benedum Center and other Cultural District theaters and featuring moderately priced fare.
130 Seventh St., 412-391-1004.
JIMMY'S POST TAVERN
Famous fish sandwich and more.
110 Smithfield St., 412-562-0238.
LEMONGRASS CAFE
Cambodian-Chinese cuisine in pleasantly decorated surroundings.
124 Sixth St., 412-765-2222. Read review
MANDARIN GOURMET
Extensive Chinese menu.
305 Wood St., 412-261-6151.
MAX & ERMA'S
Chain restaurant in featuring burgers, sandwiches, pasta and other entrees. There's a great view of PNC Park right at the front door.
630 Stanwix Street, 412-471-1140. Read review
MORTON'S, THE STEAKHOUSE
Upscale dining featuring, as the name says, steak, in a chain restaurant; the average check for a full dinner for two is about $170, according to www.mortons.com.
625 Liberty Ave., 412-261-7141.
NINE ON NINE
A sophisticated menu offering an amazing array of appealing appetizers worthy of being considered entrees.
900 Penn Ave., 412-338-6463. Read review
OLIVE OR TWIST
Martini bar serves sandwiches and entrees.
140 6th St., 412-255-0525.
OPUS
Opus is a great pre- or post-theater or concert dinner choice. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner daily.
Renaissance Pittsburgh Hotel, 107 Sixth St., 412-992-2005. Read review
THE ORIGINAL OYSTER HOUSE
No fuss, just fish, and a popular fish sandwich at that.
20 Market Square, 412-566-7925.
PALAZZO RISTORANTE
A family-owned restaurant serving classic Italian specialties.
144 Sixth St., 412-434-6244.
PALOMINO RESTAURANT
Chain restaurant with popular after-work bar area. Features European-inspired regional American cuisine.
444 Liberty Ave., 4 Gateway Center. 412-642-7711.
POMENADE CAFE AT HILTON PITTSBURGH
A pleasant view and some appetizing dishes make this worth a visit. A nutritional analysis of some of the dishes is a nice touch.
600 Commonwealth Place, 412-391-4600 Read review
PRIMANTI BROTHERS
When is a sandwich not your average sandwich? When it's piled high with the sides inside -- including the French fries.
2 S. Market Place, 412-261-1599.
RUTH'S CHRIS STEAK HOUSE
It might seem odd, but some of the city's best non-meats can be had at this venerable Downtown establishment, part of a nationwide chain. Although famous for their great, prime grade beef, they deserve top marks also for their baked potatoes, potatoes au gratin, fresh spinach, asparagus, sauteed mushrooms and salad of tomato and bleu cheese.
6 PPG Place, 412-391-4800.
SIX PENN KITCHEN
The casual Downtown restaurant on two levels has a bar on each and a menu of American dishes made with local fresh ingredients by a talented kitchen staff.
146 Sixth St., 412-566-7366. Read review
SONOMA GRILLE
An attractive restaurant serving modern grill cuisine with Asian and Latin twists. An extensive wine list of primarily West Coast American wines with 65 wines by the glass. Vegetarian friendly.
947 Penn Ave., 412-697-1336. Read review
THE STEELHEAD GRILL
Upscale casual dining with white linens serving California-American cuisine and an emphasis on seafood.
112 Washington Place, Marriott Hotel, 412-394-3474. Read review
F. TAMBELLINI RESTAURANT
Italian specialties and other fare are a theater-night tradition in this Pittsburgh mainstay.
139 Seventh St., 412-391-1091.
THE TERRACE ROOM
This posh dining room offers contemporary American cuisine served in sumptuous surroundings. Professionally trained wait staff, low noise level and changing menu.
Omni William Penn Hotel, 530 William Penn Place, 412-553-5235. Read review
TONIC BAR AND GRILL
A happening place with a menu of foods from different regions of the world, served in small portions at fair prices by an efficient staff.
971 Liberty Ave., 412-456-0460. Read review
TRILOGY
Contemporary American cuisine using local and sustainable ingredients. Handsome interiors and a good location for a pre- or post-theater stop. The wine list is extensive.
PNC Plaza, 620 Liberty Ave., 412-697-2800. Read reviewP>
Potentially one-stop shopping for any appetite, just across the Smithfield Bridge from Downtown. Some highlights and the rest:
GRAND CONCOURSE
Historical Landmark building with awesome interior and extensive fresh fish and seafood menu. The Sunday brunch (10 a.m.-3 p.m.) is a Pittsburgh standard. Well-spaced tables allow for comfortable conversation. There's also full bar service from the adjoining Gandy Dancer.
Station Square, 412-261-1717. Read review
THE MELTING POT
Pittsburgh's only fondue restaurant, this is a tasteful setting that's quiet, comfortable and entertaining.
Station Square, 412-261-3477. Read review
ALSO AT STATION SQUARE:
Bar Louie, 412-394-0500.
Buca di Beppo, 412-471-9463.
Buckhead Saloon, 412-232-3101.
Hard Rock Cafe, 412-481-7625.
Hooters, 412-261-9464.
Houlihan's, 412-232-0302.
Joe's Crab Shack, 412-690-2404.
Kiku Japanese Restaurant, 412-765-3200.
Margarita Mamas, 412-434-8100.
Red Star Tavern, 412-394-0100;.
Ref's Sports Bar & Game Room, 412-594-7337.
Sesame Inn, 412-281-8282.
ABRUZZI'S
A longtime Pittsburgh favorite in a new venue. This authentic family-style Italian cuisine is served in a spacious and elegant new dining room with panoramic views of Downtown's skyline.
20 S. Tenth St., Holiday Inn, 412-431-4511. Read review
BRUSCHETTA'S
Bruschetta's spotlights veal and pasta dishes in a casual setting.
1831 E. Carson St., 412-431-3535.
CAFE ALLEGRO
Mediterranean cuisine with pristine fresh ingredients prepared by a talented chef.
51 S. 12th St., 412-481-7788. Read review
CAFE DU JOUR
A storefront cafe featuring American food with fresh ingredients.
1107 E. Carson St., 412-488-9695.
THE CAMBOD-ICAN KITCHEN
The Cambod-ican Kitchen is a little ethnic joint with a Far Eastern flavor to the modest decor.
1701 E. Carson St., 412-381-6199. Read review
CARSON CITY SALOON
Mediocre food and worse service mars this fantastic space.
1401 E. Carson St., 412-481-3203. Read review
DISH OSTERIA AND BAR
Cuisine of southern Italy; small menu, but with added daily specials, usually including a fish, pasta and soup of the day.
128 S. 17th St., 412-390-2012. Read review
FATHEAD'S
Famous for their "head"wiches.
1805 E. Carson St., 412-431-7433.
EAST WIND ASIAN BISTRO
Traditional and contemporary Japanese specialities.
2122 E. Carson St., 412-431-7874. Read review
HALO
A hot and hip cafe and lounge in a historic de-consecrated church. The modern American cuisine is produced by two talented chefs who enjoy working with unusual ingredients.
1005 E. Carson St., 412-431-4256. Read review
LE POMMIER
Classic French dishes reveal the magic of elegant ingredients. Upscale Le Pommier is one of Pittsburgh's finest, merriest and most original restaurants.
2104 E. Carson St., 412-431-1901. Read review
NAKAMA
Japanese steak house and sushi bar.
1611 E. Carson St., 412-381-6000.
2557 E. Carson St., 412-488-8000. Read review
PRISCILLA DINING IN ART
A spacious dining room with well-spaced tables and walls covered with original oil paintings. Although the owners are Philippine natives, the menu covers the world. Service is friendly and casual. Noise is not a factor.
2557 E. Carson St., 412-488-8000. Read review
AUSSOM AUSSIE BOOMERANG BBQ
Boomerang's "Sauceroo" is fruit-based. The meat is flavored in a way not common to the American smokemeister: using apple and cherry woods instead of mesquite or hickory.
2701 Penn Ave., 412-434-1220. Read review.
BENKOVITZ SEAFOOD
Fish sandwiches, crab cutlets, tuna burgers and sushi, plus chowders, cold selections and more.
2300 Smallman St., 412-263-3016.
DELUCA'S RESTAURANT
Serving diner-style and known for its big, hearty breakfasts, the crowds roll in early on weekends.
2015 Penn Ave., 412-566-2195.
ELEVEN
The most creative contemporary American menu in Pittsburgh, serving top-quality food prepared by a team of top chefs in an elegantly casual environment. Intriguing wine list. Wines available by glass up to $21.
1150 Smallman St., 412-201-5656. Read review
KAYA
Kaya is a fun venue with a serious kitchen. Chef Brandy Stewart loves to work with unusual vegetables and exotic taste combinations Kaya is also justifiably recognized as the favorite dining spot for vegetarian "foodies."
2000 Smallman St., 412-261-6565.
KLAVON'S ICE CREAM PARLOR
Take a step back in time at this 1920s ice cream parlor.
2801 Penn Ave., 412-434-0451.
LIDIA'S OF PITTSBURGH
Lidia's has an expansive menu for brunch, lunch and dinner that won't break the budget and an appealing list of Italian wines.
1400 Smallman St., Strip District, 412-552-0150.
ROLAND'S SEAFOOD GRILL
Featuring fish with an oyster bar downstairs and a good bar upstairs. Second-floor balcony over Penn has tables and umbrellas.
1904 Penn Ave., 412-261-3401.
SPAGHETTI WAREHOUSE
Part of a national chain, the Spaghetti Warehouse offers pasta classics served in large portions at a reasonable price.
2601 Smallman St., 412-261-6511.
SUSHI KIM
Sushi Kim in the Strip has consistently been chosen among the 25 top restaurants in Pittsburgh by City Paper. It has a loyal following especially in the Korean community. The sushi bar is the largest in Pittsburgh, with 14 seats.
1241 Penn Ave., 412-281-9956. Read review
WHOLEY'S FISH MARKET
A lunch counter at the popular market serves seafood sandwiches, fried scallops and more.
1711 Penn Ave., 412-391-3737.
For a roundup of some of the Mount Washington restaurants along scenic Grandview Avenue, visit Read article.
BELLA VISTA
This is a pleasant interior with nice service and a kitchen and management that strive to please.
1204 Grandview Ave., 412-431-1660
CLIFFSIDE
Two levels for added views, this restaurant features traditional American cuisine in a romantic setting. Main courses center around steaks, veal and seafood.
1208 Grandview Ave., 412-431-6996.
GEORGETOWNE INN
American cuisine, less expensive than most Grandview restaurants. Known for its big fried fish sandwich.
1230 Grandview Ave., 412-481-4424.
ISABELA ON GRANDVIEW
Isabela tops the scale for an ultra-romantic experience. Even if you can't get a table for Valentine's Day, come with your Valentine date at another time.
1318 Grandview Ave., 412-431-5882.
LE MONT
Palatial surroundings and formal, Old World ambience accompany awesome views of Pittsburgh's skyline and the three rivers. Live entertainment Tuesdays through Saturdays. Entrees up to $72.
1114 Grandview Ave., 412-431-3100.
MONTEREY BAY FISH GROTO
A casual fish restaurant with a phenomenal view, friendly service, good kitchen staff, a pastry chef and an impressive wine list. What's not to love?
1411 Grandview Ave., 412-481-4414.
THE SHILOH INN
Located in a Victorian home built in the late 1800s, this tends to be a place where locals stop en route home to have a brew and visit with the neighbors. A Pittsburgh experience not to be missed, especially on a night when local musicians inject the old house with new life.
123 Shiloh Ave., 412-431-4000 Read review
THE TIN ANGEL RESTAURANT
American and Greek cuisine in a small, dark and attractive dining room with a superb view and good service.
1200 Grandview Ave., 412-381-1919.
ATRIA'S RESTAURANT & TAVERN
The third Atria's Restaurant in the Pittsburgh area, Atria's in PNC Park features good food, good wine and weekend entertainment in Johnny Angel Lounge.
115 Federal St., 412-322-1850.
CLARK BAR & GRILL
The Clark Bar & Grill is housed in the historic Clark Candy Factory across from Heinz Field and serves up happy hour and sandwiches in a fan-friendly atmosphere.
503 Martendale St., 412-231-5720.
FINNEGAN'S WAKE
The shepherd's pie is also called the Gene Kelly, as most of Finnigan's Wake's specialties and sandwiches have been named after legendary Pittsburghers or Pittsburgh places.
20 E. General Robinson St., 412-325-2601. Read review
LEGENDS OF THE NORTH SHORE
Featuring Italian cuisine.
500 North Ave., North Shore, 412-321-8000.
MAX'S ALLEGHENY TAVERN
Authentic German cuisine and Bavarian beer in a festive setting.
537 Suismon St., 412-231-1899.
MONTEREY PUB
Beyond the decent food, impressive libations, cold, clean drafts and a jukebox with good, diverse tunes, Monterey Pub is a joint that exudes true pubbishness. As in Ireland, people of all ages gather there. People who know each other head there to connect, conduct neighborhood business, take a load off.
1227 Monterey St. in the Mexican War Streets, 412-322-6535. Read review
NEW MOON FUSION RESTAURANT
Elegant surroundings and fine food with an Asian flair are featured in an exciting new venue.
20 E. General Robinson St., 412-321-3525.
OUTBACK STEAKHOUSE
The important thing to know is that this franchise is located just beyond the glass in PNC Park's left field, giving diners a view of the game while they munch on there meal.
For information on Outback Steakhouse at PNC Park, call the Pirates at 1-800-BUY-BUCS.
PENN BREWERY RESTAURANT
Located in the historic Eberhardt and Ober Brewery in the Troy Hill section of Pittsburgh, Penn Brewery is an authentic German microbrewery and pub house.
800 Vinial St., Troy Hill; 412-237-9402. Read review
PEPPI'S
One of several local sites for the bustling sandwich shop. Note: "The Roethlisburger" sandwich is made of ground beef, hot sausage, fried onions, scrambled egg and American cheese. It goes for $7, matching its namesake's number.
927 Western Ave., 412-231-9009.
ROXOLANA'S GARDEN
A family-run restaurant serving Ukrainian specialties in addition to burgers and salads.
856 Western Ave., 412-231-7696. Read review
SOHO
In another context, SoHo would fall somewhere in the solid middle of the dining spectrum. However, on the North Shore, SoHo offers a pleasant, upscale alternative to the existing sports bars.
203 Federal St., 412-321-7646 Read review
UGLY
The menu is bar food but with a few creative additions and a guarantee that all the ingredients are fresh and food is prepared from scratch.
208 Federal St., 412-323-8459. Read review