We all know Pittsburgh has a loooooong list of iconic cravings — Primanti Bros., Heinz, Wigle, Iron City, Mancini’s, Millie’s, Penzeys, Sarris, Fiori’s Pizzaria, Islay’s, Turner’s Dairy, Wholey’s and other heavy hitters.
But what about the small(er) yet mighty ones that have a tasty reputation for travelers and locals alike? Here are just a few of these small business food icons (in no particular order) that Pittsburgh can’t live without on its plate, too.
Steel City Salt Company
Steel City Salt Company helps to bring Pittsburgh cooking to a whole new level with its out-of-the-box flavors and combinations of infused salts, blends, imported gourmet salts, herbs and spices, and more.
Plus, these make great gifts! Just add a pinch of salt to your loved one’s life and try a variety of flavors including Dill Pickle Salt, Black & Gold blend, Siracha, Black Truffle Sea Salt, and more. (Psst… they also have a NEW Pierogi Salt!)
Mi Empanada
Take your taste buds on a flavor adventure with the addicting and astonishing Mi Empanada, a self-acclaimed authentic Argentinian bakery that creates empanadas and other delicacies.
Roasted lamb, chicken, spinach, sweet potato, and even buffalo chicken — the options fit every type of craving when it comes to empanadas. We suggest just trying them all!
Miller’s Banana Pepper Sauce
Located in Gibsonia, Miller’s banana pepper sauce is the go-to condiment for any occasion when repping the City of Champions.
Need to add to a fancy charcuterie? Want to spice up grill time? Looking for a loungeable, casual-eating companion with a bowl of pretzels? Miller’s perfect balance of sweet and tangy (that also brings a little heat) is the smart choice for all.
A519 Chocolate
Suave and eye-catching, the color-blasted brilliance of A519 Chocolate by chocolatier and owner Amanda Wright is always a #1 while exploring more of Pittsburgh’s food scene.
Art meets delectable function with these whimsical chocolates that come in a pack of 2, 9, or 15. They are debuted seasonally, along with A519 Chocolate’s ever-present signature collection. It’s time to treat yourself — snag the fall collection right now, and cozy up to melt-in-your-mouth greatness.
Apteka
Named one of the United States’ best restaurants by The New York Times last year, Apteka is certainly not underrated. But its unique approach to light, yet filling, flair for vegan food makes us want to come back again and again…and try our best to get one of each on the menu!
Focused on Central and Eastern European fares and cocktails, this restaurant should be ‘wowing’ everyone due to its verve in every ingredient. They will be closed from September 25th – October 8th for a fall break, so walk-in now or wait patiently!
Moonlit Burgers
Simple and satisfying, Moonlit Burgers serves the ultimate smash burgers in Pittsburgh. With locations in Dormont and Duquesne, the elegant joint serves up thin patties on fresh buns and homemade ingredients.
Get the perfect pairing of shoestring fries, bean salad and cabbage & jalapeño slaw, plus more. Look out for their first food truck, The Patty Wagon, making its mark this fall!
Our Other Favorites
Other favorites include People’s Indian Restaurant, Iron Born, Kingfly Distillery, Rolling Pepperoni, Grist House, Gosia’s Pierogies, Maple Street Jam Co., Uncle Jammy’s, Sugar Spell Scoops, Deli on Butler, Abeille Voyante Tea Co., and Live Fresh Juicery.
YUM! This list can’t stop and shouldn’t stop — let us know your favorite(s) and why in the comments below. Thanks for sharing!
This content was provided by a local, independent contributor to Made in PGH, a lifestyle blog.