Restaurants

Cork and Crust Review – Premium Italian in Oakland

Cork and Crust is a high-end Italian restaurant inside The Oaklander Hotel in Oakland, featuring shareable dishes, pasta, and flavorful pizzas made by a James Beard-nominated chef, plus a large cocktail and wine program to go along with it.

We were fortunate enough to check this one out as a guest of the restaurant shortly after they opened (partially hosted), and had a pleasant evening out with some delicious pasta and pizza.

But while we enjoyed this one and are particularly glad to see more chef-driven hotel restaurants opening in Pittsburgh, the menu prices gave us pause. This one really is premium dining in Pittsburgh through and through.

Read more

8 Star Cuisine Review – All You Can Eat Asian Buffet

In recent years, there has been a rise in higher-end, themed all-you-can-eat Asian buffets opening in the Pittsburgh metro area.

In Gibsonia, 8 Star Cuisine came onto the scene with immediate popularity, and naturally, we had to go check it out with our friends Alex Eats Too Much and The Indian Somm for a lunchtime feast.

Although this one doesn't stray too far from the popular buffet mold, the ample variety of cuisines and a reasonable lunchtime price point made for a delicious meal out, with a few dishes standing out as favorites.

Read more

Fry Bar Review – Killer Wings and Loaded Fries in North Side

Fry Bar in the North Side is a bit of an unassuming restaurant on Galveston Ave- just a few blocks north of the Western Avenue business district.

Although its name suggests that the restaurant is a spot to visit for French fries, which they do have in abundance, this one offers a rather large menu beyond that, including fried and smoked wings, sandwiches, and more that you absolutely should not miss.

To say this one surpassed all expectations is an understatement, and their wings may be our very favorite we've had in the city to date.

Yes, they're the real deal.

Read more

Senza Review – Wine Bar and Restaurant in Etna

Senza in Etna is an intimate wine bar and restaurant with a focused menu of plates perfect for sharing. You may remember the original Senza in this location – we loved the former Senza concept and were sad to hear the owners left the area for a new opportunity elsewhere.

But, we were thrilled to learn the folks behind Bar Marco swooped in, keeping the vibe true to the intent of the original concept, while bringing all the best things we love about Bar Marco.

Read more

Park House Review – Historic Bar Returns to the North Side

Park House in Pittsburgh's North Side is a historic bar in the city as it is often thought to have received one of the first licenses to serve alcohol after Prohibition ended.

For many years, Park House was a favorite neighborhood bar of many thanks to having food, regular live music, and more. But, sadly, like many businesses, this one closed in 2020 and only reopened in late 2025 after a several-year hiatus.

Naturally, we were thrilled that this staple bar has returned, and have visited a few times since reopening.

Park House is back and better than ever!

Read more

Yaba’s Middle Eastern Street Food Review – Fast Casual Downtown

When looking for a new restaurant to visit downtown before a Pittsburgh Penguins game, Yaba's Middle Eastern Street Food, just across the street from PPG Paints Arena, caught our attention.

A fast casual, build-your-own bowl and wrap concept focusing on Middle Eastern flavors? All at a reasonable price? Sign us up!

As it turns out, this restaurant, tucked away on the second floor of an assuming building near the stadium, packed a punch. If you're in the mood for a quick and reasonably priced Middle Eastern meal while downtown, Yaba's is worth the stop.

Read more

The Vandal Review – A Gem in the Heart of Lawrenceville

The Vandal is an intimate spot in the heart of Lawrenceville with trendy bistro vibes, a focused seasonal menu utilizing local ingredients, and helpful, friendly service. Although the restaurant's concept has grown and evolved over the past decade of its existence, we feel like it's really hitting its stride now.

It's the kind of cozy spot perfect for a date night or friend's night out- just be sure to make a reservation since seats are limited.

Read more

Reva Modern Indian Review – Delicious Indian in East Liberty

Reva is a casual restaurant in East Liberty serving up modern Indian cuisine. The communal tables and huge menu are perfectly suited for bringing a group of friends and ordering tons of dishes for family style dining.

On our visit it was just the two of us, but we still tried several appetizers and entrees and loved it. The dishes were customized with our spice preference, and everything was packed with flavor.

Read more

A Sneak Preview of Butler County’s 2026 Restaurant Week

We love going out to new restaurants in the area, and we are always blown away by how many great spots there are. Even after exploring for 10+ years, we always find something new in the local food scene that blows us away.

For those who are looking to try something new, Restaurant Weeks offer a great opportunity to try a new-to-you restaurant or to sample menu items that you haven't had before.

Butler County's Restaurant Week is taking on a slightly different format from the traditional model, and participating restaurants are showcasing one signature dish from January 23rd to February 1st in 2026. Guests who try menu items will be entered to win gift cards as well!

In this one, we wanted to share a bit more about the features you should try during the upcoming Restaurant Week.

Note: This article was sponsored by Experience Butler County PA. As always, all opinions are our own.

Read more

JJ’s World Review – Delicious Fare in Chicora

Every now and again, we find a restaurant that offers delicious food in a location we would not have expected.

JJ's World in Chicora, PA, in northeast Butler County (about 75 minutes from Pittsburgh) is one such restaurant. With a focus on smoked meats plus sandwiches, pastas, and other entrees, this one delivered a delicious meal in an unexpected spot.

So if you're north of the city looking for a tasty bite, consider this one!

Read more