Published by Angie. Last Updated on December 13, 2020.
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Penn Avenue Fish Company is my idea of a perfect brunch spot in the Strip District. We love to skip right past the mile-long lines outside of restaurants like Pamela's and head straight here for a relaxing weekend brunch. (Don't get us wrong, there is a time and a place for Pamela's, but sometimes you're just too hungry to wait in line!)
Not only is Penn Ave Fish Co. a beautiful fish market with very trained and knowledgeable staff, it's got a surprisingly delicious casual seafood menu, too.
Getting Better With Age
Just a few years ago the dining space was small and a bit awkward as you were practically eating right next to the raw, whole fish for sale. But with the recent expansion of the dining area, there is plenty of room for everyone now and a little more ambiance, too.
If you come for weekend brunch, bring some champagne and they'll provide the OJ for DIY mimosas.
Order at the counter, sit down, and have a drink. Or peruse the insanely good looking fish market portion of the restaurant, or take a gander at the freezer section for some unique seafood delights you probably won't find anywhere else in Pittsburgh.
Simply Seafood
The thing I love most about this place is that it's simple food done right. Everything starts with the freshest fish prepared in simple but gourmet ways to highlight the true taste of the seafood- how can you say no to that?
As you'd probably expect, there is plenty of sushi on the menu- sashimi and nigiri, maki, sushi platters, and all kinds of specialty rolls.
If sushi isn't your style, there are dozens of sandwich options as well that are served on flavorful ciabatta bread and with unique side salads. One of our favorite sandwiches is the crab cake sandwich full of sweet crab meat, creamy cheddar cheese, and a spicy remoulade sauce.
Pretty much anything you could think to do with seafood is also on the menu- fish tacos, seafood pizzas, salads topped with seafood, or even just a nice cut of fish pan fried and served with veggies.
Our typical order is something like one or two sushi rolls and a sandwich or brunch special so that we can try a little bit of everything.
Penn Avenue Fish Co. is located at 2208 Penn Avenue in the Strip District. The restaurant is closed during dinner hours on select days of the week.
Looking for more great food in the Strip District? Check out our neighborhood guide at the previous link!
