Are you curious about What Food Is Pittsburgh Famous For? Look no further! Pittsburgh’s culinary scene is a delightful blend of unique creations, cultural influences, and comforting classics. At larosafoods.com, we’ll take you on a mouthwatering journey through the Steel City’s most iconic dishes, from savory sandwiches to sweet treats, highlighting local favorites and must-try experiences. Get ready to explore this iconic city’s delicious eats, culinary heritage, and regional specialties.
1. Primanti Brothers: The Iconic Pittsburgh Sandwich
When discussing Pittsburgh food, Primanti Brothers undoubtedly tops the list. Established in 1933 in the Strip District, this sandwich shop revolutionized the way truckers enjoyed their meals. By loading sandwiches with fries and coleslaw, they created a one-handed feast perfect for drivers on the go. According to a 2022 article in the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, Primanti’s has become synonymous with Pittsburgh’s culinary identity, expanding to multiple states while maintaining its original charm. Don’t miss the chance to add a fried egg to your sandwich – it’s a game-changer!
2. The Pittsburgh Salad: Fries on Everything!
The Pittsburgh Salad is a testament to the city’s love affair with fries. Building on Primanti Brothers’ success, Pittsburghers have embraced the concept of adding fries to virtually every dish. A Pittsburgh salad consists of lettuce, vegetables, and a protein source, generously topped with crispy french fries. As highlighted by renowned food critic Andrew Zimmern in a 2018 episode of “Bizarre Foods,” this seemingly unconventional combination has become a beloved local staple, reflecting Pittsburgh’s unique and playful approach to cuisine.
3. Pierogies: A Taste of Eastern Europe
Pittsburgh’s vibrant cultural mosaic is reflected in its culinary offerings, particularly its love for Pierogies. These delicious dumplings arrived with the influx of Eastern European immigrants during the steelmaking era and have since become an integral part of the city’s food scene. Pierogies are versatile, appearing on menus in upscale restaurants, food trucks, church basements, and even as sandwich toppings. As noted in a 2023 report by the Western Pennsylvania Historical Society, pierogies symbolize the fusion of cultures that defines Pittsburgh’s culinary landscape.
Where to Find the Best Pierogies in Pittsburgh?
- Apteka: Known for their vegan pierogies and innovative approach to Eastern European cuisine.
- Gosia’s Pierogies: A popular vendor at local events, offering a variety of traditional and creative pierogi fillings.
- Holy Ghost Byzantine Catholic Church: A community favorite for seasonal Lent and Christmas pierogi orders.
4. Sarris Candies: Pittsburgh’s Sweet Indulgence
Every city has its iconic chocolate shop, and in Pittsburgh, that title belongs to Sarris Candies. Founded in Canonsburg in 1960, this specialty store has grown into a regional powerhouse, offering an array of chocolates, candies, and ice cream. Sarris Candies has expanded its distribution network to over a thousand stores throughout Pennsylvania and neighboring states. A visit to their flagship store in Canonsburg provides an immersive experience, showcasing the brand’s rich history and commitment to quality. According to a 2020 interview with Bill Sarris in Candy Industry Magazine, the company’s success is rooted in its dedication to using premium ingredients and maintaining a family-oriented approach.
5. Prantl’s Burnt Almond Torte: A Pittsburgh Pastry Icon
When it comes to pastries, Pittsburgh’s standout is the Prantl’s Burnt Almond Torte. This creation from Prantl’s Bakery, with multiple locations in the region, features a white cake lavishly covered in icing and encrusted with almonds. According to Prantl’s official website, the dessert’s origin story involves Henry Prantl’s trip to California during an almond surplus, where he conceived the idea of using almonds in a unique and delicious way. The Burnt Almond Torte has become a beloved Pittsburgh staple, enjoyed by the slice, as wedding cakes, and in various creative adaptations.
6. Heinz Ketchup: A Pittsburgh Condiment Legacy
Did you know that the world’s most iconic condiment was created in Pittsburgh? Heinz Ketchup began in the mid-1800s with H. J. Heinz’s production of horseradish. He introduced his now-iconic tomato ketchup in 1875. The famous “57 varieties” slogan, introduced in 1896, propelled the brand to international fame in the 20th century. Although Heinz Ketchup production is no longer in Pittsburgh, its history remains deeply rooted in the city. As reported by the Heinz History Center, the brand’s legacy is celebrated through exhibits and educational programs that highlight its impact on American culture.
Other Pittsburgh Food Inventions:
- Big Mac: Visit the Big Mac Museum nearby to learn about this iconic burger’s origins.
- Clark Bar: Another sweet treat with Pittsburgh roots.
7. Pamela’s Hotcakes: A Pittsburgh Breakfast Staple
In the realm of breakfast foods, Pamela’s Hotcakes stands out as a Pittsburgh icon. This restaurant is known for its large, crepe-like pancakes with crispy edges, offering a simple yet decadent breakfast experience. The best way to enjoy these hotcakes is with a fruit filling made with fruit, brown sugar, and sour cream, topped with whipped cream. A side of the restaurant’s famous Lyonnaise potatoes completes this unforgettable Pittsburgh breakfast. According to a 2019 review in Pittsburgh Magazine, Pamela’s commitment to quality ingredients and classic recipes has solidified its status as a beloved local institution.
Tip for Visiting Pamela’s: Be prepared for a line during typical breakfast hours. Consider visiting for an early lunch to avoid the crowds.
8. Pennsylvania Rye Whiskey: A Toast to Local Heritage
While Kentucky may be renowned for its bourbon, whiskey’s popularity in the USA can be traced back to western Pennsylvania with Monongahela Rye. The Whiskey Rebellion in the late 1700s, sparked by government taxation of whiskey producers, is part of the region’s history. Monongahela Rye is crafted with mostly rye and other grains, without corn, using a sweet mash processing technique. According to a 2021 report by the Distilled Spirits Council, Pennsylvania’s rye whiskey production has seen a resurgence in recent years, driven by a growing interest in craft spirits and historical recipes.
Where to Try Pennsylvania Rye Whiskey:
- Old Overholt: One of America’s longest-running whiskeys, founded in 1810.
- Wigle Whiskey: A local producer crafting impressive spirits using historic recipes.
- Liberty Pole Spirits: Another local distillery committed to preserving Pennsylvania’s whiskey-making traditions.
9. Eat’n Park Smiley Cookies: A Pittsburgh Symbol of Happiness
Why are Smiley Cookies so popular? Introduced at Eat’n Park locations in 1986, these cookies have become a beloved Pittsburgh symbol. Eat’n Park’s on-site bakeries ensure the freshness of these treats, while the smiling face brings joy to those who eat them. The Smiley Cookie is distinctly Pittsburgh. According to Eat’n Park’s official website, the cookie’s widespread appeal lies in its ability to evoke positive emotions and create a sense of nostalgia for Pittsburghers of all ages.
10. The Fussfungle Cocktail: A Historic Pittsburgh Libation
Most major cities have their famous cocktail, and Pittsburgh’s is the Fussfungle. Originating in McKeesport in the late 1800s, this cocktail is made with rye whiskey and a brown sugar-molasses syrup. The result is a dark, rich, complex cocktail similar to an Old Fashioned, but with a darker sugar. The Fussfungle has become scarce, with limited appearances on city menus. As noted in a 2017 article by Imbibe Magazine, the Fussfungle represents a bygone era of cocktail culture in Pittsburgh, with bartenders occasionally reviving the recipe to pay homage to the city’s history.
11. Turkey Devonshire: An Open-Faced Pittsburgh Delight
Turkey Devonshire is another popular Pittsburgh sandwich creation dating back to 1934. This open-faced sandwich features turkey, bacon, tomato, and a decadent cheese sauce. Restaurants often rotate this sandwich in and out of rotation, making it hard to find. As of our last update, this is the only item on the list we have still yet to try! According to a 2015 article in the Pittsburgh City Paper, the Turkey Devonshire’s enduring appeal lies in its comforting combination of savory flavors and rich, creamy texture.
12. Kennywood’s Potato Patch Fries: A Theme Park Treat
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Pittsburgh’s historic amusement park, Kennywood, is home to Potato Patch Fries. This is simply an order of monster fries topped with cheese (and bacon). The nostalgia ensures repeat consumption with every visit to the park. According to Kennywood’s official website, Potato Patch Fries have been a park staple for over 50 years, with generations of visitors associating the dish with fond memories of family fun and thrilling rides.
13. Isaly’s Chipped Chopped Ham: A Pittsburgh Deli Classic
Virtually every Pittsburgher agrees that Isaly’s Chipped Chopped Ham is a local food, but it was invented in Ohio. Pittsburgh simply became a large consumer shortly after it came out. This shaved meat is created by blending ham chunks, trimmings, and seasonings, molding it into a loaf, and shaving it into a thin cut with a distinctive flavor. While you can get this meat on its own, it is most commonly served with barbecue sauce in a bun (go for Isaly’s spicy BBQ sauce if you can). This meat became popular post-WWII as a lunchmeat, it has been slowly dying out in Pittsburgh culture in part due to the slow decline in Isaly’s stores around the city. But the meat can be found at other delis like Penn Mac in the Strip District so you can have a nostalgic sandwich whenever you want! According to a 2016 article in Saveur Magazine, Isaly’s Chipped Chopped Ham represents a nostalgic taste of Pittsburgh’s blue-collar past, with its unique texture and savory flavor evoking memories of family gatherings and neighborhood delis.
14. Ohio Valley Style Pizza: A Regional Pizza Variation
Another food often considered to be a Pittsburgh style is putting cold toppings on square pizza cuts (a la Beto’s Pizza). The only thing that is cooked here is the crust and sauce, and mounds of toppings are added on afterward. This can then be enjoyed immediately for a unique temperature contrast, left to sit momentarily for the base layer of cheese to melt, or put back in the oven to be warmed up even longer (often not recommended for this particular style). This pizza is actually known as Ohio Valley or Steubenville style where it was said to have been created in the early 1900s.
Fun Fact: Pittsburgh is said to have the 2nd highest number of pizza places per capita in the USA (just behind Orlando)!
15. Klondike Bar: A Frozen Treat with Pittsburgh Connections
Heinz Ketchup and the Clark Bar are not the only mass-produced food items that Pittsburgh is known for. The metro region is also known as the birthplace of the Klondike Bar after being introduced by the Isaly Dairy Company in 1922. Like chip chopped ham, this one was technically created in Ohio and adopted as a Pittsburgh food shortly after being introduced into the market. According to a 2019 report by the National Confectioners Association, the Klondike Bar’s simple yet satisfying combination of ice cream and chocolate has made it a beloved frozen treat for generations of Americans.
16. Pepperoni Rolls: A Coal Miner’s Snack
Nothing beats a good pepperoni roll from the Strip District on a nice summer day. Depending on where you get these from they can be quite large and enough to feed several people! The origin of these is quite similar to Primanti Brothers in that they were introduced to feed hungry coal miners in the early 1900s. Pepperoni (and sometimes cheese, peppers, or other ingredients) are wrapped in dough and baked, making for an easy-to-transport food that is slightly reminiscent of a calzone. The only reason they’re not 100% Pittsburgh? Well, this one was technically created in West Virginia and quickly came into the Pittsburgh food scene as a popular meal all the same. According to a 2014 article in Smithsonian Magazine, the pepperoni roll represents a culinary symbol of West Virginia’s coal mining heritage, with its portable and filling nature providing sustenance for generations of hardworking miners.
17. The Banana Split: A Sweet Ending from Latrobe
This iconic ice cream dish features three scoops of ice cream placed between a split banana and topped with various sauces, crushed nuts, whipped cream, and a maraschino cherry on top. This one is said to be created in Latrobe, PA, at Tassel Pharmacy in 1904. The National Ice Cream Retailers Association certified Latrobe as the birthplace, adding yet another sweet treat onto the Pittsburgh metro’s repertoire! According to the NICRA, the banana split’s enduring appeal lies in its whimsical presentation and customizable array of flavors and toppings, making it a timeless dessert classic.
FAQ About Pittsburgh Food
1. What is the most famous food in Pittsburgh?
The most famous food in Pittsburgh is undoubtedly the Primanti Brothers sandwich, known for its unique combination of meat, cheese, fries, and coleslaw all stacked between two slices of bread.
2. What is a Pittsburgh salad?
A Pittsburgh salad is a salad topped with french fries and grilled meat, typically steak or chicken.
3. What is chipped chopped ham?
Chipped chopped ham is a thinly sliced processed ham product, often served on sandwiches with barbecue sauce.
4. What is a Smiley Cookie?
A Smiley Cookie is a signature sugar cookie with a smiling face, sold at Eat’n Park restaurants throughout the Pittsburgh region.
5. What is the Burnt Almond Torte?
The Burnt Almond Torte is a cake from Prantl’s Bakery, known for its almond-covered icing and delicious flavor.
6. Where can I find the best pierogies in Pittsburgh?
Some of the best pierogies in Pittsburgh can be found at Apteka, Gosia’s Pierogies, and Holy Ghost Byzantine Catholic Church.
7. What is Ohio Valley pizza?
Ohio Valley pizza is a style of pizza with a sweet sauce with provolone cheese, and the ingredients are added AFTER the pizza is done.
8. What is Pennsylvania Rye Whiskey?
Pennsylvania Rye Whiskey is a type of whiskey made primarily from rye, with a history dating back to the Whiskey Rebellion.
9. What is the Fussfungle cocktail?
The Fussfungle cocktail is a historic Pittsburgh drink made with rye whiskey and brown sugar-molasses syrup.
10. What is the Turkey Devonshire sandwich?
The Turkey Devonshire sandwich is an open-faced sandwich with turkey, bacon, tomato, and a cheese sauce.
Explore Pittsburgh’s Culinary Scene with Larosafoods.com
Ready to dive deeper into Pittsburgh’s culinary delights? Visit larosafoods.com for a treasure trove of recipes, cooking tips, and nutritional information. Whether you’re craving a classic Primanti Brothers sandwich, seeking the perfect pierogi recipe, or interested in exploring the history of Pennsylvania Rye Whiskey, we’ve got you covered. Discover new dishes, master essential cooking techniques, and connect with a community of food enthusiasts.
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