Pittsburgh’s rivers aren’t just for scenic views; they’re home to some of the city’s most delightful dining spots. Whether we’re craving fresh seafood, a juicy steak, or a vegetarian feast, the waterfront restaurants offer something for every palate.
Imagine savoring a delicious meal while watching the sun set over the Allegheny, Monongahela, or Ohio River. These dining experiences combine the best of Pittsburgh’s culinary scene with breathtaking vistas, creating unforgettable moments for locals and visitors alike. Let’s explore the top waterfront dining destinations that make Pittsburgh a true gem for food lovers.
Pittsburgh’s Best Waterfront Dining Experiences
The Grand Concourse
The Grand Concourse offers an upscale dining experience with a rich history. Located in the beautifully restored Pittsburgh & Lake Erie Railroad Station, it provides a unique atmosphere. Diners can enjoy seafood dishes, steaks, and classic American fare while overlooking the Monongahela River. Signature meals include the Crab Cakes and Filet Mignon. The Sunday Brunch is particularly popular, featuring an extensive buffet.
Redfin Blues
Redfin Blues is a more casual option located on Washington’s Landing. This waterfront restaurant specializes in seafood, offering dishes like Lobster Rolls and Grilled Salmon. Its outdoor deck provides stunning views of the Allegheny River. During warmer months, it’s a great spot for happy hour with friends, offering a variety of appetizers and refreshing cocktails.
The Foundry Table & Tap
The Foundry Table & Tap combines locally sourced ingredients with a riverside setting. Situated along the Allegheny River, it serves an array of craft beers and farm-to-table dishes. Highlights on the menu include the Charcuterie Board and the Foundry Burger. The restaurant’s patio is ideal for a relaxed meal while enjoying the scenic river view.
Hofbräuhaus Pittsburgh
Hofbräuhaus Pittsburgh brings a German twist to waterfront dining. Located on the South Shore of the Monongahela River, it delivers an authentic Bavarian experience. The menu features German classics like Pretzels and Schnitzel. Hofbräuhaus also brews its beer on-site, providing fresh options such as the Hofbräu Dunkel. The beer garden is perfect for enjoying a meal outdoors.
Sienna Mercato
Sienna Mercato offers a rooftop dining experience with views of the Allegheny River. Known for its Italian cuisine, the restaurant features a rooftop beer garden called Il Tetto. Menu favorites include Meatballs in various styles and Wood-Fired Pizzas. Il Tetto’s retractable glass roof allows for year-round dining with a panoramic city view.
The Wheelhouse
The Wheelhouse, located inside the Rivers Casino, offers casual dining with views of the Ohio River. Patrons can enjoy American comfort food, including Burgers, Wings, and Sandwiches. The restaurant’s large windows provide a direct view of the water, making it a nice spot for dining any time of day. Additionally, it’s an excellent choice for those looking to combine dining with entertainment.
Altius
Altius delivers a fine dining experience with an unparalleled view from Mount Washington. Overlooking all three rivers, it offers a modern American menu crafted with locally sourced ingredients. Dishes such as the Roasted Duck and the Scallops showcase the chef’s culinary expertise. The restaurant’s position provides breathtaking views of Pittsburgh’s skyline and rivers, especially at sunset.
The Point Brugge Café
Point Brugge Café, located in the Point Breeze neighborhood, provides a cozy dining setting with outdoor seating near the Monongahela River. It’s well-known for its mussels prepared in various styles and Belgian-inspired dishes like Stoofvlees, a traditional Belgian beef stew. The café’s beer selection includes Belgian favorites that complement the menu perfectly.
Eddie Merlot’s Pittsburgh
Eddie Merlot’s, situated along the banks of the Monongahela River, is known for its prime cuts of steak and extensive wine list. This upscale restaurant offers a sophisticated dining experience with dishes like the Bone-In Filet Mignon and Lobster Bisque. Floor-to-ceiling windows provide diners with an elegant view of the river, creating a perfect dining ambiance.
Southern Tier Brewery
Southern Tier Brewery offers a unique combination of brewery and dining near the North Shore, adjacent to the Allegheny River. Their menu includes brewery favorites like BBQ Pulled Pork and a variety of craft beers brewed on-site. With a spacious outdoor seating area, it’s an excellent place for group gatherings and casual meals while enjoying the river view.
Iconic Waterfront Restaurants
Pittsburgh boasts many iconic waterfront restaurants. These dining venues offer scrumptious food, stunning views, and memorable experiences.
The Duquesne Incline Restaurant
The Duquesne Incline Restaurant provides a unique dining experience. As diners enjoy their meals, they also get panoramic views of Pittsburgh from Mount Washington. The menu includes classic American dishes like steak, seafood, and vegetarian options. The setting is ideal for private events due to its spacious dining areas and beautiful backdrop.
The Grand Concourse
The Grand Concourse offers upscale dining in a historic setting. Located at Station Square, this restaurant captures the grandeur of the past with its opulent decor and high ceilings. Guests can savor a variety of dishes, including fresh seafood, steaks, and poultry, all while overlooking the Monongahela River. The Sunday brunch is particularly popular, featuring a wide selection of dishes and live music.
The Rivers Club
The Rivers Club provides an exclusive dining experience within the Oxford Center complex. This private club offers a sophisticated atmosphere along with diverse menu options. Executive chefs create contemporary American cuisine with an emphasis on fresh, local ingredients. Members and their guests can enjoy views of the Allegheny River while dining in a refined setting perfect for both business and social gatherings.
Casual Waterfront Eateries
Pittsburgh offers a range of casual waterfront eateries for those seeking relaxed dining experiences with picturesque views. Here’s a closer look at some popular options.
Redfin Blues
Redfin Blues, located on Washington’s Landing, provides an inviting casual seafood dining option. Guests can enjoy a variety of seafood dishes while relaxing on the outdoor deck overlooking the Allegheny River. Signature dishes include fresh catch specials and crab legs, making it a go-to spot for seafood lovers.
The Foundry Table & Tap
The Foundry Table & Tap offers a unique farm-to-table dining experience along the Allegheny River. This establishment focuses on using locally sourced ingredients to craft their menu, which includes options like artisan pizzas and gourmet burgers. Their selection of craft beers complements the rustic yet modern ambiance, offering an ideal setting for both meals and drinks by the water.
Unique Waterfront Dining Experiences
Pittsburgh’s waterfront dining scene offers unique experiences that go beyond traditional restaurants. These dining spots combine exceptional cuisine with distinctive settings that make every meal memorable.
Gateway Clipper Fleet Dining
The Gateway Clipper Fleet provides an exceptional dining experience on the water. Its riverboat cruises offer both lunch and dinner options with stunning views of Pittsburgh’s skyline. Guests enjoy a variety of themed dinners, including Italian Night and Captain’s Dinner. The menu features a range of dishes, from fresh seafood to hearty steaks, ensuring there’s something for every palate.
The Floating Restaurant
The Floating Restaurant gives diners a truly unique experience, as it is one of the few floating dining establishments in the area. Situated on the Allegheny River, this restaurant specializes in seafood but also offers an array of steak and vegetarian dishes. The ever-changing view as the restaurant gently moves with the river’s current adds an extra layer of charm to the dining experience.
Each establishment in Pittsburgh’s waterfront dining scene brings its own flavor and setting, making Pittsburgh a go-to destination for food lovers seeking scenic dining. Whether on a riverboat or a floating restaurant, these unique venues elevate the city’s culinary appeal.
Seasonal and Pop-Up Waterfront Options
Pittsburgh’s waterfront dining scene isn’t just about year-round establishments. Seasonal and pop-up options add a dynamic element, offering fresh and diverse experiences by the river.
Farmer’s Markets by the River
Farmer’s markets by the river provide a refreshing way to explore local produce and artisanal goods. Market Square Farmers Market, held every Thursday from May to October, features over 30 vendors offering a variety of sustainably sourced fruits, vegetables, and handmade crafts. The Strip District is another hotspot, where vendors set up along the Allegheny River, attracting those seeking fresh ingredients or unique snacks. These markets provide a communal atmosphere while supporting local businesses.
Food Truck Festivals
Food truck festivals along the waterfront present a fusion of flavors in a casual setting. The Pittsburgh Pierogi Festival occurs annually at Kennywood Park in September, featuring a plethora of food trucks serving everything from classic pierogis to avant-garde takes on the dish. Another notable event is the Picklesburgh Festival, held on the Andy Warhol Bridge each July. It celebrates all things pickled with an array of food trucks offering innovative pickle-themed dishes. These events allow us to sample diverse cuisines while enjoying the scenic river views, enhancing the city’s vibrant food culture.
Conclusion
Pittsburgh’s waterfront dining scene offers a unique blend of culinary excellence and breathtaking views. From upscale establishments to casual eateries and seasonal pop-ups, there’s something for every palate. Whether you’re savoring fresh seafood, enjoying a farm-to-table meal, or indulging in prime steaks, the city’s rivers provide a stunning backdrop that enhances the dining experience.
Exploring these diverse options allows us to appreciate Pittsburgh’s rich culinary landscape while enjoying the beauty of the Allegheny, Monongahela, and Ohio Rivers. So next time you’re looking for an unforgettable meal, consider one of these waterfront gems. Happy dining!