Restaurants

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.

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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.

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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!

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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!

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9 Spots Great to Enjoy Dry January in Pittsburgh in 2026

Oh dry January, you are always fun.

This annual celebration has become something of a global phenomenon, as many of us look to use the somewhat slow month as a chance to detox and get a break from indulgences (especially after the holidays).

Whatever your reason for participating in dry January is your own. But if you are looking to enjoy the flavors of your favorite beverages without alcohol, a number of restaurants, bars, breweries, and distilleries are starting to offer great options for dry January in Pittsburgh!

In this one, we thought we'd share some of the spots with the finest assortment of products. While this one is not comprehensive, we wanted to include places that have larger menus, share a variety of products, and more to give you a great cross-section of alcohol-free beverages in the city to consider if you are abstaining.

Please note: This article focuses on offerings for Dry January specifically and may not necessarily be accurate year-round. While many of the bars, restaurants, and breweries featured have great non-alcoholic products at all times, some increase their offerings for January. Likewise, cocktails, beers on draft, and other beverages are always liable to change. Please reconfirm directly with any business prior to visiting. Finally, some drink photos in this article may be alcoholic and are for illustration only.

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Union Brothers Brewing Review – Brews and Food

We've been fans of Union Brothers Brewing since they first opened in Harmony. Since then, they've gained quite the popularity, expanded into a new location down the road, all while offering the same great food and beer since day one.

We recently revisited this one for a night out, with beer and food all around, and had quite the great time. So if you're north of the city looking for food, beer, or perhaps both, this one is a great stop!

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