The sizzle of burgers and hot dogs on the grill just sounds like summer. If you’re in the mood for a truly great hamburger or hot dog to satisfy your summer barbeque cravings, Pittsburgh is home to some local restaurants that know how to do these favorites justice.
Here are four places where you can find the best burgers and dogs in the greater Pittsburgh area.
Stoke’s, North Hills
Who else loves Stoke’s in Ross Township? Their burgers are crafted from fresh Angus beef, and everything on the menu is made fresh in-house with items sourced from local vendors like Breadworks. Stoke’s is known for specialty burgers — they have a unique Beefmaster, a famous burger tribute called Animal Style, and a classic combination known as the Ringamala. Your burger will go perfectly with their homemade mac and cheese or daily soup.
Beyond burgers, Stoke’s offers pizza, wings, grilled sandwiches, hoagies and wraps. Plus they offer one of the best local craft draft beer lists around with 24 fresh rotating taps. They have a can and bottle list with over 100 varieties, including local breweries. Stop by for the best happy hour in the North Hills with half-off all drafts to pair with your burger.
Stoke’s newly remodeled expansive bar and dining room provides plenty of room to spread out considering today’s new normal.
Burgh’ers Brewing, Zelienople and Lawrenceville
Fans of the ‘Burgh and burgers, unite! Burgh’ers Brewing is a chef-driven smash burger joint and craft brewery located in Zelienople, PA and a second location in Lawrenceville. The burgers and beer are inspired by and honor Pittsburgh’s unique neighborhoods, history, and culture. With a “Platinum” designation from Sustainable Pittsburgh, you know this eatery offers high-quality meals. Burgh’ers chili dogs are locally sourced and smothered in chili, onion, mustard and cheese. Kids will love the hot dog with fries or a mini burger that’s the perfect size.
Focused on local, ethical and sustainable food and drink, the majority of what is prepared at Burgh’ers is sourced from farmers within a 200-mile radius of Pittsburgh. They’re known for honest food, neighborly beer, and sustainable practices. Burgh’ers Brewing will quickly become your favorite farm-to-hand burger and beer joint.
Hoffstot’s Cafe Monaco, Oakmont
As one of the oldest family-owned and operated restaurants in Allegheny County, Hoffstot’s Cafe Monaco has been creating high-quality Italian food since 1971. The restaurant was completely renovated earlier this year. Hoffstot’s Cafe Monaco has over 15 beers available on draft with an assortment of locally brewed craft beers.
This cafe specializes in traditional Italian cuisine with a creative influence. In addition to burgers and sandwiches, Hoffstot’s has a robust pasta and seafood menu. And right now, they have a family meal menu that offers 4 dinners to simplify your weekly meal scheduling
Chelsea Grille, Oakmont
Speaking of sizzling burgers, Chelsea Grille in Oakmont offers 10 oz. all-beef burgers that can be fire-grilled to your preference. With beef fresh from a local butcher in Penn Hills, these juicy burgers are served on a toasted brioche bun with lettuce, tomato, pickle and onion.
Stop in for a lunch platter with french fries and coleslaw. The sides are available a la carte for dinner. And for a lighter meal, try Chelsea Grille’s 5 oz. burger.
You can customize your burger with assorted cheeses and toppings. Burger connoisseurs may want to try The Ragin’ Cajun, grilled with Cajun seasoning, melted American cheese, and a Creole chili pepper sauce coleslaw.
Still hungry? Check out our list of hidden BBQ gems around the city and the best places to get an Impossible burger.
This content was provided by a local, independent contributor to Made in PGH, a lifestyle blog.
You can experience the splendor of Burgh’ers Brewing in both Zelienople (as mentioned) and Lawrenceville (as was not mentioned).