Travel to Pittsburgh

[RabidBadger]

I actually checked out Lincoln Avenue Brewery for my first time this Saturday. My friend was visiting from Erie and I repaid him the favor of driving to a bunch of breweries. I liked my small sample, he liked his three, and the food I saw looked good. Cool little venue.

Nice little strip in Bellvue. Our Airbnb host said Tom Hanks is shooting a film there currently. We didn't try the libations but the food was pretty good (homemade kraut on the reuben was a nice touch).

As an aside, the Utz's extra dark pretzels are seriously kick-ass! Everyone that tried our stash agreed. Utz needs to expand their shipping route to Michigan!

 

[newfiejesus]

Keep us posted with your experience, newfiejesus!

We had a ball. Never stopped. Only missed one stop due to holiday closure.

let's see, drive from Buffalo was great, stayed at the Wyndham Grand, went to Grille 36 (where our server couldn't comprehend why Canadians weren't at the Pens/Devils game), Andy Warhol Museum and Phipps Conservatory. Next day we hit the strip after an exciting stop at Dunkin Donuts, loaded up on souvenirs then went to the Ballet for the Nutcracker. That took us to Christmas Eve night and businesses were closing so we ordered Giovanni's (i think they were called) and bought some booze to make merry and call home at the hotel.

Christmas morning we walked across to the Duquese Incline. During the walk, the few cars that were out kept honking at us. I thought it was the Christmas spirit and people being friendly, but then I realized I was wearing a Mean Joe Greene shirsey and it was GAME DAY.

The incline was great fun, it was also fun to see the Ravens convoy heading to Heinz Field with police escort. Then it was tailgate time. All the pics, all the food, all the camaraderie Then the GAME! Bell and Brown went off! Two comebacks! DOUBLE RENEGADE! THE IMMACULATE EXTENSION!!! I got to see James Harrison lead the team in tackles, and Lawrence Timmons flying through the line for a sack. Shazier! Too bad about Brown and his issues and misdeeds since, but WHAT A DAY! Division title and I WAS THERE! Things get a bit hazy then but I recall a very content stroll to the hotel after being in a nearby bar. I messaged Xavier Grimble on Instagram years later to say thanks for the memories and he messaged back with some nice, appreciative words

Anyway, great weather, friendly people, great hotel, a fantastic memorable Christmas. Can't wait to go again. Reminded me a bit of some cities I visited in Ireland, minus the tall buildings of course. Nice place you got there. I'll go again but not during holidays, might try some nicer restos and gastropubs then.

 

[newfiejesus]

We had a ball. Never stopped. Only missed one stop due to holiday closure.

let's see, drive from Buffalo was great, stayed at the Wyndham Grand, went to Grille 36 (where our server couldn't comprehend why Canadians weren't at the Pens/Devils game), Andy Warhol Museum and Phipps Conservatory. Next day we hit the strip after an exciting stop at Dunkin Donuts, loaded up on souvenirs then went to the Ballet for the Nutcracker. That took us to Christmas Eve night and businesses were closing so we ordered Giovanni's (i think they were called) and bought some booze to make merry and call home at the hotel.

Christmas morning we walked across to the Duquese Incline. During the walk, the few cars that were out kept honking at us. I thought it was the Christmas spirit and people being friendly, but then I realized I was wearing a Mean Joe Greene shirsey and it was GAME DAY.

The incline was great fun, it was also fun to see the Ravens convoy heading to Heinz Field with police escort. Then it was tailgate time. All the pics, all the food, all the camaraderie Then the GAME! Bell and Brown went off! Two comebacks! DOUBLE RENEGADE! THE IMMACULATE EXTENSION!!! I got to see James Harrison lead the team in tackles, and Lawrence Timmons flying through the line for a sack. Shazier! Too bad about Brown and his issues and misdeeds since, but WHAT A DAY! Division title and I WAS THERE! Things get a bit hazy then but I recall a very content stroll to the hotel after being in a nearby bar. I messaged Xavier Grimble on Instagram years later to say thanks for the memories and he messaged back with some nice, appreciative words

Anyway, great weather, friendly people, great hotel, a fantastic memorable Christmas. Can't wait to go again. Reminded me a bit of some cities I visited in Ireland, minus the tall buildings of course. Nice place you got there. I'll go again but not during holidays, might try some nicer restos and gastropubs then.

oh and the omelet chef who served us at the hotel on boxing day was really struggling. he told us he had a really bad Christmas. I wont go into details out of respect for privacy but I hope he's doing better and best nowadays. the omelets were delicious.

 

[Rodgerwilco]

We had a ball. Never stopped. Only missed one stop due to holiday closure.

let's see, drive from Buffalo was great, stayed at the Wyndham Grand, went to Grille 36 (where our server couldn't comprehend why Canadians weren't at the Pens/Devils game), Andy Warhol Museum and Phipps Conservatory. Next day we hit the strip after an exciting stop at Dunkin Donuts, loaded up on souvenirs then went to the Ballet for the Nutcracker. That took us to Christmas Eve night and businesses were closing so we ordered Giovanni's (i think they were called) and bought some booze to make merry and call home at the hotel.

Christmas morning we walked across to the Duquese Incline. During the walk, the few cars that were out kept honking at us. I thought it was the Christmas spirit and people being friendly, but then I realized I was wearing a Mean Joe Greene shirsey and it was GAME DAY.

The incline was great fun, it was also fun to see the Ravens convoy heading to Heinz Field with police escort. Then it was tailgate time. All the pics, all the food, all the camaraderie Then the GAME! Bell and Brown went off! Two comebacks! DOUBLE RENEGADE! THE IMMACULATE EXTENSION!!! I got to see James Harrison lead the team in tackles, and Lawrence Timmons flying through the line for a sack. Shazier! Too bad about Brown and his issues and misdeeds since, but WHAT A DAY! Division title and I WAS THERE! Things get a bit hazy then but I recall a very content stroll to the hotel after being in a nearby bar. I messaged Xavier Grimble on Instagram years later to say thanks for the memories and he messaged back with some nice, appreciative words

Anyway, great weather, friendly people, great hotel, a fantastic memorable Christmas. Can't wait to go again. Reminded me a bit of some cities I visited in Ireland, minus the tall buildings of course. Nice place you got there. I'll go again but not during holidays, might try some nicer restos and gastropubs then.

Damn that update was hella delayed, lol.

 

[newfiejesus]

Keep us posted with your experience, newfiejesus!

Damn that update was hella delayed, lol.

...but it was made, that's the main thing. Request fulfillment, all part of being a professional.

 

[Rodgerwilco]

...but it was made, that's the main thing. Request fulfillment, all part of being a professional.

I fully appreciate it. Well done. Glad you enjoyed your time in Pittsburgh. It's a great city!

 

[Swervin81]

Hey guys.

Me and my parents are driving down from Toronto for the Jays/Pirates series this weekend. I've been to Pittsburgh twice before for Leafs/Pens games, but I drove in day of, stayed the night, and drove back the next morning both times, so I never really got a chance to see much outside of the Carnegie Science Centre and eating at Primanti's. I love Primanti's - I'll take my parents there for sure - but since we're gonna be in town for 3 days, I'd like to do the city a little more justice.

We're just gonna ditch the car (staying at the hotel across the street from PNC) and mostly be on foot and relying on the T (the free parts, at least). Any suggestions for some activities and some non-Primanti's food? Especially Mexican and Pizza - it's the family go-to for comfort food. Also, best diner for some Saturday morning breakfast?

Thanks!

 

[Randy Butternubs]

Hey guys.

Me and my parents are driving down from Toronto for the Jays/Pirates series this weekend. I've been to Pittsburgh twice before for Leafs/Pens games, but I drove in day of, stayed the night, and drove back the next morning both times, so I never really got a chance to see much outside of the Carnegie Science Centre and eating at Primanti's. I love Primanti's - I'll take my parents there for sure - but since we're gonna be in town for 3 days, I'd like to do the city a little more justice.

We're just gonna ditch the car (staying at the hotel across the street from PNC) and mostly be on foot and relying on the T (the free parts, at least). Any suggestions for some activities and some non-Primanti's food? Especially Mexican and Pizza - it's the family go-to for comfort food. Also, best diner for some Saturday morning breakfast?

Thanks!

Would you be open to Uber or Lyft? Driving or riding will give you more options as there aren't that many free T stops. Anyway, the suggestions below will be within walking distance of PNC Park or near a free T station.

What I consider to be more "traditional" breakfast:

Lindo's Restaurant​

Allegheny Sandwich Shoppe​

Cherries Diner​

Waffles Incaffeinated (they have multiple locations)​

Fancier breakfast:

fl2​

Speckled Egg​

For breakfast I'd either pick Allegheny Sandwich Shoppe or Speckled Egg.

Mexican (PGH isn't really known for Mexican food... sorry):

Las Velas​

Pizza:

Cafe Milano (sit upstairs)​

Proper Brick Oven​

Sienna Mercato (first floor is just meatballs, you'll have to go to the second for the pizza place)​

Pizzaiolo Primo​

Activities:

Andy Warhol museum​

Mattress Factory (modern/installation art -- wasn't for me)​

National Aviary (to get your money's worth be sure to talk to the workers and to attend the scheduled showings/activities)​

just walk around the Mexican War Streets/former Allegheny City neighborhood to look at the architecture​

​

edit to add: For other types of food I'd rely on a Google Maps search. Anything above a 4.5-star rating should be pretty good. From 4.0 to 4.4 you may be disappointed but take a peak at the pictures and review. Below a 4.0 I would just avoid.

 

[Randy Butternubs]

@Swervin81 how was your visit?

 

[Swervin81]

@Swervin81 how was your visit?

Awesome! PNC Park was every bit as gorgeous as it looks on TV and the drone show they had for Saturday's game.

We got in Friday, had lunch at Primanti's, went to the ballgame, and then since my parents went back to the hotel, I just ditched them for the rest of the night to go grab a bite to eat at Cafe Milano.

Saturday, we went to Allegheny Sandwich Shoppe for brunch, did the Warhol museum, a bit of walking through North Shore, went to the game, then a ditched my parents after (again) to go partying at Howl at the Moon (off Wood St station). the scene inside was basically a bachelorette party surrounded by a f*** on of happy Blue Jays fans lol

Sunday, we pretty much just got packed, went to the game, and left so we could get home at a reasonable time.

All in all, I had a ton of fun again in Pittburgh and my parents enjoyed it as well. everyone was super friendly to us and it was a great time.

 

[td_ice]

Awesome! PNC Park was every bit as gorgeous as it looks on TV and the drone show they had for Saturday's game.

We got in Friday, had lunch at Primanti's, went to the ballgame, and then since my parents went back to the hotel, I just ditched them for the rest of the night to go grab a bite to eat at Cafe Milano.

Saturday, we went to Allegheny Sandwich Shoppe for brunch, did the Warhol museum, a bit of walking through North Shore, went to the game, then a ditched my parents after (again) to go partying at Howl at the Moon (off Wood St station). the scene inside was basically a bachelorette party surrounded by a f*** on of happy Blue Jays fans lol

Sunday, we pretty much just got packed, went to the game, and left so we could get home at a reasonable time.

All in all, I had a ton of fun again in Pittburgh and my parents enjoyed it as well. everyone was super friendly to us and it was a great time.

Nice, glad you and the family had a good time.

 

[Randy Butternubs]

Saturday, we went to Allegheny Sandwich Shoppe for brunch, did the Warhol museum, a bit of walking through North Shore

Well I hope those parts didn't suck since that's what I suggested!

 

[Rivet52]

Hey, everyone!

About a year ago, I started a journey around the League with an end goal of visiting every NHL rink for a game, rooting for each team at home. I'm really trying to put myself in a spot to see what it's like being a fan at every stop, while also seeing cities I've never visited before, as well as learning the history of each team and scoping out each rink.

Pittsburgh's my next city and first of this season. I'm driving in from Buffalo next Saturday for the game against the Kraken. I just had a few questions about recommendations.

First, I've never been to Pittsburgh before, so can anyone recommend anything worth seeing for someone going there for the first time? I like to try to check out anything famous or what a city's known for while I do these trips if I can. Someone already told me of a spot I can go to get a good view of the city, but I'm wondering if there are any other must-sees in the city that I could stop at in the hours before the game.

Second, when do the Pens start warmups, and can fans get close enough to the benches to see the players come out? I know some rinks have gone full plexiglass since COVID, but I'd like to get down there for warmups and take some photos if possible. I'm just wondering what the protocol is.

Last, can anyone recommend somewhere well-known or a staple in Pittsburgh to eat (probably lunch)? I'd like to go somewhere Pittsburgh might be noted for if you have any suggestions.

The Penguins have always been one team I've rooted for when my team (Sabres) isn't in the playoffs, which has been often the last decade, so I'm more excited for this one than I've been for other teams. I'm hoping for a good game and at least a few goals so I can hear the horn and goal song in person.

If you have any ideas, I'd appreciate them. Go Pens!

 

[Randy Butternubs]

Hey, everyone!

About a year ago, I started a journey around the League with an end goal of visiting every NHL rink for a game, rooting for each team at home. I'm really trying to put myself in a spot to see what it's like being a fan at every stop, while also seeing cities I've never visited before, as well as learning the history of each team and scoping out each rink.

Pittsburgh's my next city and first of this season. I'm driving in from Buffalo next Saturday for the game against the Kraken. I just had a few questions about recommendations.

First, I've never been to Pittsburgh before, so can anyone recommend anything worth seeing for someone going there for the first time? I like to try to check out anything famous or what a city's known for while I do these trips if I can. Someone already told me of a spot I can go to get a good view of the city, but I'm wondering if there are any other must-sees in the city that I could stop at in the hours before the game.

Second, when do the Pens start warmups, and can fans get close enough to the benches to see the players come out? I know some rinks have gone full plexiglass since COVID, but I'd like to get down there for warmups and take some photos if possible. I'm just wondering what the protocol is.

Last, can anyone recommend somewhere well-known or a staple in Pittsburgh to eat (probably lunch)? I'd like to go somewhere Pittsburgh might be noted for if you have any suggestions.

The Penguins have always been one team I've rooted for when my team (Sabres) isn't in the playoffs, which has been often the last decade, so I'm more excited for this one than I've been for other teams. I'm hoping for a good game and at least a few goals so I can hear the horn and goal song in person.

If you have any ideas, I'd appreciate them. Go Pens!

"Must see" spots around downtown include:

The Strip District [this is one of the very few level elevation places in PGH. It's essentially the local market. You could walk around and check out a bunch of yinzer stores while getting some good food and drink]​

Andy Warhol Museum [a pop art museum if you're into that. I like it way better than the Mattress Factory which is "installation" art]​

Carrie Blast Furnace [this is an old steel mill. I'm not sure if they'll have tours the day you'll be in but some cool Pittsburgh and steel history. Dress warm if you do go.]​

Phipps Conservatory [plants]​

I haven't been to a game since preCOVID so perhaps someone else can weigh in here.

The most yinzer answer would be Primanti's for a lunch spot. Though my choice on a Penguins game day would be Souper Bowl since it's so close to the arena. Primanti's has multiple locations so that'd probably work out better for you if you're not near the arena. Peppi's also has a few locations in Pittsburgh which looks like it'd be a good spot.

 

[Rivet52]

"Must see" spots around downtown include:

The Strip District [this is one of the very few level elevation places in PGH. It's essentially the local market. You could walk around and check out a bunch of yinzer stores while getting some good food and drink]​

Andy Warhol Museum [a pop art museum if you're into that. I like it way better than the Mattress Factory which is "installation" art]​

Carrie Blast Furnace [this is an old steel mill. I'm not sure if they'll have tours the day you'll be in but some cool Pittsburgh and steel history. Dress warm if you do go.]​

Phipps Conservatory [plants]​

I haven't been to a game since preCOVID so perhaps someone else can weigh in here.

The most yinzer answer would be Primanti's for a lunch spot. Though my choice on a Penguins game day would be Souper Bowl since it's so close to the arena. Primanti's has multiple locations so that'd probably work out better for you if you're not near the arena. Peppi's also has a few locations in Pittsburgh which looks like it'd be a good spot.

Thanks for the thorough post! I appreciate it.

I talked to a Pens fan I know who doesn't live in Pittsburgh but has gone there for games, and they also recommended the Strip, as well as Primanti's. It looks to be only a few minutes away from the arena, so I think I'll definitely go there before the game. I'll also keep your other food suggestions in mind. It'll be a long day.

 

[Gurglesons]

Thanks for the thorough post! I appreciate it.

I talked to a Pens fan I know who doesn't live in Pittsburgh but has gone there for games, and they also recommended the Strip, as well as Primanti's. It looks to be only a few minutes away from the arena, so I think I'll definitely go there before the game. I'll also keep your other food suggestions in mind. It'll be a long day.

The Primanti’s in Market Square is IMO one of the best ones and also close enough to walk to the arena (20ish minutes).

Capicola and egg is the jam if you eat meat, otherwise just cheese is always good.

 

[The Old Master]

Gotta go to the South side bars at night, ride the incline, and have a Primani Bros sandwich while drunk.

if your on the southside skip primani and go straight to fat heads. they are much better.

 

[Ugene Magic]

if your on the southside skip primani and go straight to fat heads. they are much better.

If you want a real original Primanti's sandwich the strip is a must anyways. So Fat Heads on the Southside is a pretty safe bet.

 

[Zbynek]

My go-to was always Blues burger + cheese sticks at Fatheads before the game, and a Pitts-Burger (with Red Devil hot sauce) at Primantis afterwards for late night grub. Capicola or pastrami are also solid

 

[Ulf5]

Anyone try Con Alma yet? Was going to try the whole fish last time in town but ended up elsewhere. They changed the menu already but still looks like some tasty choices, especially the brunch menu.

 

[Pens x]

Con Alma’s food was mehhh. I’ve only been there for dinner one time, maybe an off night.

 

[Ulf5]

Con Alma’s food was mehhh. I’ve only been there for dinner one time, maybe an off night.

Thank you Pens x.
The shrimp and grits looked amazing on Revel's website. Talk about disappointing. The most bland thing I've ever eaten in my life. Not an ounce of flavor other than the coarse salt I added.

 

[JTG]

Just dropping some suggestions in here. I live/work/entertain myself in the city -

NORTHSIDE (PIRATES/STEELERS)​

Monterrey Pub is probably my favorite bar in the city. It's on Monterrey Ave off of North Ave in Northside. I think it has the best burger in town and it has a small scratch made menu of some really awesome food and my style of beer (nitro Guinness, Eichenberg, Smithwicks)

Western Ave in Northside has some good bars restaurants. Allegheny Sandwich Shoppe is meh, but you can get breakfast and lunch there during the week. If you want breakfast, Lindo's on Western is really solid. My favorite Peppi's in the city is also on Western. There are now breweries (Four Points and 412) and a wine tasting room (Refucilo) on Western. Across the street you'll have Nicky's Thai (which is probably the most popular Thai spot in Pittsburgh) along with Modern Cafe (great drinking bar) and a new bar going into called Tony's Pub.

Legends on North Ave is a great place to get a good meal.

If you are in town on a Wednesday, the most underrated event in the city is Banjo Night at the Allegheny Elks on Cedar Ave. It's a ton of fun. Drinks are cheap and the old timers play music. The vibe is awesome. You can also drink there without a membership 4 hours before games on Sunday's.

Penn Brewery is also an underrated place to go before any game. The food is really good and I love the beers.

UPTOWN (PENS)​

I'm a season ticket holder/Duquesne graduate, and Souper Bowl is my go-to like many others. It's where EVERYONE drinks before the game. What may people don't know is that their food is actually really good. If you want to grab dinner after a game to let things calm down, I recommend stopping here.

Cafe on 5th is just like Souper Bowl. Great place to drink at before a game. I'm not a fan of their food - it's been miss well more than it has been a hit.

Parking hack - There is a lot through the alley way next to Mitchell's on Ross St. The alley way doesn't have a street name that I know of, but parking back there is $10 and it gives you the quickest access to the highway after the game.

STRIP DISTRICT/DOWNTOWN​

I think Roland's is a really fun place to take in a game and though I'm not a gigantic fan of their food, their munchies are pretty good. Roland's is a spot I have taken in many Steelers games, and the environment is always fun.

Luke Wholey's has great food. Their menu changes, so check it out before you go in.

Ciopino has great food for a nice dinner out, and a bonus if you're a cigar smoker. They have a nice selection of bourbon and their cigar prices won't kill you. Hack - you can also pick cigars up at Leaf and Bean if you want a larger selection.

Eleven/Kaya - I lump these together because they are both Big Burrito restaurant group and things are similar - good happy hour and really solid food, IMO. Eleven is upscale, Kaya is Carribean.

I think Cinderlands Warehouse is a gem. I love their beers, and their food is quirky but always awesome. I'd recommend this place to anyone that comes into the city.

Coup Deville is probably a great place to pregame or take in a game, I'd imagine. I haven't done so yet, but the couple times I have gone in, it seems like it could be really fun.

DOWNTOWN​

The Eagle is probably one of my favorite spots in the city right now. Awesome food.

The Warren is my favorite cocktail bar in the city. Super pro bartenders. Really nice place to have a couple of really high quality drinks and their food is really good too.

Scarpino's - just ate there for the first time. Really great Italian food.

LAWRENCEVILLE/BLOOMFIELD
​

Not going to really give a breakdown because Lawrenceville is superior to the Southside, and is where I would recommend anyone go aside from Southside. Aside from Mike and Tony's there isn't a whole lot of redeemable qualities of the Southside.

My favorite spots in Lawrenceville are 11th Hour Brewing, Stinky's, Hop Farm, Condado Taco, Round Corner Cantina. I admittedly don't do a ton of drinking in Lawrenceville - I actually try to avoid it, but if you want concentrated wining and dining, this is where you should go.

In Bloomfield, I would recommend Lot 17 and Tessaro's.

MISC.
​

Sharpsburg - Dancing Gnome; Hitchhiker Brewing

Millvale - Grist House Brewing; Sidelines; Caesar's; Grant Bar; Strange Roots

​

 

[drwpreds]

Hello- we are traveling to Pittsburgh soon for a couple of Penguins games- we have done the trip a few times before and have always stayed close to PPG arena. This time we were thinking about staying somwhere else/different location. Wondering if there is a good area/suburb to stay in that has good hotels/shopping/restaurants close by? Still want to be fairly close to PPG, preferably no more than 20 minutes or so.

If anyone has any recommendations it would be greatly appreciated- thanks! (Restaurant recs also welcomed!)

 

[Rudy Russo]

Hello- we are traveling to Pittsburgh soon for a couple of Penguins games- we have done the trip a few times before and have always stayed close to PPG arena. This time we were thinking about staying somwhere else/different location. Wondering if there is a good area/suburb to stay in that has good hotels/shopping/restaurants close by? Still want to be fairly close to PPG, preferably no more than 20 minutes or so.

If anyone has any recommendations it would be greatly appreciated- thanks! (Restaurant recs also welcomed!)

You can stay in Robinson Township. It's very close to Pittsburgh international airport, and there are a lot of restaurants, a mall and hotels. Another option is to stay in Cranberry right by the penguins practice facility. Hope this helps.