Let’s be serious, every meal whether it’s brunch, lunch or dinner, is always going to taste better with your favorite boozy beverage. Pittsburgh BYOB scene is popping (pun intended) with many different types of restaurants offering this perk. Here are some of our favorite eateries where we can bring our favorite drink of choice. With the list of Pittsburgh BYOBs going up so are our uber tabs. Cheers to getting boozy while always eating well.
Arpino Trattoria
If you’re not looking for it, you might miss it! Aprino is tucked away in the Manor Oak Village of the South Hills. When you step into this cozy Italian eatery you will feel like you are right at home. Here you can enjoy homemade pasta, made with local and fresh ingredients. We about fell out of our chairs when we tried their Arancini. Arpino is the perfect place to get your friends and family together for a delicious authentic meal, or go to enjoy a romantic date night. Either way we cant wait to go back!
Pizza Taglio
We are no strangers to Pizza Taglio. Here is where you can enjoy things like hand tossed Roman styled pizzas and creamy homemade Ricotta. (We drool over the ricotta) Everything served at Taglio is made with nothing but pure love. Enjoy everything they have to offer while being able to pop your own bottles! Honestly what could be better than that!
Gaucho Parrilla
It’s hard to imagine anything being better than Gaucho’s Steak Burger. Who are we kidding, it’s hard to think up a meal that tops anything on the menu at this place. So then, how do you upgrade a meal that has it all? You add booze, of course. Luckily, Gaucho allows for the addition of alcohol with their BYOB policy. And thanks to their new, expanded dining area you can hang out while you eat and drink your way through everything on the menu
Duncan St
Duncan St officially opened their doors earlier this month and we can hardly contain our excitement. This BYOB is a casual setting while serving up specialty housemade salads, sandwiches and more. Their menu will make your mouth water just reading it. Be sure to check out their website to learn about their five course dinner opportunities hosted in the shop! Not only is Duncan bottle friendly, but they also welcome dogs in the back! Grab your pup and your drink and prepare for a meal to remember.
Sarafino’s
If you haven’t noticed yet, there is a pretty common pattern with BYOB restaurants in Pittsburgh. A large portion of them are italian, but hey, we aren’t complaining because we LOVE Italian! Sarafino’s is a classic Pittsburgh restaurant serving traditional Italian cuisine with recipes passed down to generations. We highly suggest you try the “Rita” which is a penne vodka dish which is classic but for some reason better at Sarafino’s.
La Tavola
Dining in or taking out La Tavola has something for everyone. This byob sits on top of Mount Washington. Come for the traditional italian food stay for the delicious dessert. (we love the tiramisu) Looking for a fun date night? La Tavola even offers cooking classes! Grab your honey and your favorite wine, and get ready to have the time of your life!
Legends of the North Shore
This Pittsburgh BYOB has been a local favorite since they opened their doors in 2002. PIttsburghers come from near and far to enjoy this fine Italian eatery. From fresh baked bread, (we can smell it now) to your favorite italian classics like penne vodka and spinach ravioli, anyone can be satisfied with what they have to offer. This traditional Italian restaurant is anything but ordinary.
Noodlehead
This neighborhood noodle joint keeps it super simple. No nonsense. Just noodles, folks. No telephone. No reservations. Cash only. BYOB. $6 soups. $9 noodles. Place your order, choose your spiciness level 1 – 5 (FYI, 5 = crazy). Do yourself a favor, order the steamed buns. Then, kickback and enjoy the trendy, wood + metal industrial design that contributes to a stellar atmosphere, while you slurp down your street-eats inspired noodles.
Coca Cafe
Known as the go-to brunch spot on Butler Street, Coca Cafe also does breakfast, lunch and dinner. Best of all, you can bring your own bottle to any meal. Yes, even breakfast. No judgement here. While we never pass judgement for day (or morning) drinking, skipping this spot is frowned upon. Although skipping the full-on brunch frenzy is acceptable. But no matter when you stop by you’ll find a menu complete with options that upgrade the same old eats you’re used to.
Nicky’s Thai Kitchen
With two locations, Downtown and North Side, Nicky’s brings a double dose of traditional Thai cuisine to Pittsburgh. They’re spicing up the restaurant options in the Cultural District, making this the perfect place for pad Thai prior to a play or performance. And on Western Avenue, the house turned restaurant couldn’t be more cozy. But you can’t go wrong dining at either location. Especially if you come ready with your favorite bottle (or two) of wine to pair with your meal.
Cafe du Jour
Somehow this spot manages to surprise, delight and fly under the radar all at once. Those in the know seek out this small South Side eatery with a bottle or beverage in tow. The food and atmosphere will have you convinced you’ve been transported to Paris via Pittsburgh. And the outdoor seating area will make that you’ll never want to leave. If you bring an extra bottle of wine and ask your server to bring on the dessert menu you won’t have to. At least not any time soon.
Piccolo Forno
There’s a lot to love about this place. Especially if you enjoy Italian food. Feast on any one of their pasta dishes. Or have a panini. But know that the best decision of all would be to order a wood fired pizza. Pair your pizza with a bottle of wine and great company to make this night one to remember. Make this evening unforgettable by indulging in the homemade tiramisu for dessert.
Smiling Banana Leaf
The restaurant is small, but the traditional Thai food is satisfying. In fact, it’s so good you’ll be left with an empty plate, full stomach and a smile on your face. It won’t put a dent in your wallet, either. Every entree on the menu is under $13 and there’s no corkage fee if you BYOB. Nestled in Highland Park, this spot is unlike anything in the neighborhood. Which makes it worth checking out. When you do, reservations are encouraged. As is trying one of everything on the menu.
This content was provided by a local, independent contributor to Made in PGH, a lifestyle blog.