Best of Pittsburgh
With how much I travel, some people may think I dislike Pittsburgh as a city. While it‘s true that ignoring my personal connections, there are cities I prefer, Pittsburgh does have some pretty cool things. Here‘s what I recommend:
1. Tram‘s Kitchen
As a kid, I hated Trams for some reason, but have since grown to love it, and it is now my favorite place to eat in Pittsburgh. They serve Vietnamese food that is absolutely outstanding although to be fair, I have not yet been to Vietnam. (4050 Penn Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15224, USA)
2. Aladdin‘s Eatery
Aladdin's serves fresh, healthy, mediterranean cuisine. Their hummus falafel rolled pita is a favorite, as is the raspberry smoothie. Great to take to the park on a nice summer day. (Multiple locations)
3. Waffallonia
Offering Belgian waffles made with imported pearl sugar, Waffalonia is a great place to try Belgian waffles, which are much stretchier and sweeter than their American counterparts. (1709 Murray Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15217, USA)
4. Schenley Plaza
On a comfortable summer or spring day there are few things better than getting some takeout and relaxing in Schenley Plaza. In the University of Pittsburgh's campus, Schenley plaza offers a great view of the Cathedral of Learning. (4100 Forbes Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15260, USA)
5. Mad Mex
If you're craving something spicy but don't want your standard Mexican type restaurant, Mad Mex's "funky-fresh cal-mex" is the perfect option. Their blue cornbread is especially good. (Multiple locations)
6. The Bayernhof Museum
By far my favorite museum in Pittsburgh, and one of my favorite in the world, the Bayernhof offers an experience like no other. Somewhere between a mansion and amusement park, you can take a guided tour through the rooms and secret passages, while enjoying the world-class automatic music machines and views of the Allegheny River. Reserve ahead, and more information here.
7. Wood Street
As the last street in Pittsburgh paved with wood, Roslyn Place is a sight to see. I didn't know about it until last year, despite spending the majority of my life in Pittsburgh. It is quite short, and easiest to park nearby and walk over to see the wood blocks up close. (Roslyn Pl. Pittsburgh, PA 15232, USA)
8. Steepest street
Speaking of unique roads, Canton Avenue is the steepest street in the US, and by some measures, the world. There's even a bike race that goes up it...Once again, I recommend parking nearby and walking up it. (Canton Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15216, USA)
9. North Park
In all my travels, I have yet to come across anything that rivals North Park. While it is a very average park in many regards, it has it all: a lake front walk/bike path, hills, flats, paved and single track trails, a public pool, countless playgrounds, and plenty of geocaches. While there's not much flashy about it, if you are in the region and looking for a place to get outside and enjoy nature, North Park is worth the trip.
10. The Andy Warhol Museum
As one of the famous people to emerge from Pittsburgh, the Andy Warhol is on the top of many visitor's lists. Although most famous for his Campbell's soup and similar works, the full diversity of Warhol's achievements are showcased quite well in this standalone museum. (117 Sandusky St, Pittsburgh, PA 15212, USA)
11. The Mattress Factory
Another modern art museum, the Mattress Factory is a bit funkier than the Warhol, although that is a close call. The layout is a bit awkward, but they have some great exhibits as well as highlighting up and coming artists. (500 Sampsonia Way, Pittsburgh, PA 15212, USA)
12. El Burro
The only place I know which serves vegan Mexican food, El Burro has some unique options. I usually get the chile relleno burrito, but have yet to be disappointed by any of their entrees. (1108 Federal St, Pittsburgh, PA 15212, USA)
13. Gaucho Parilla Argentina
I first went to Gaucho three years ago when the Argentinian Exchange Student at my school took us there when his family came to town for a visit. I was blown away both by the quality of meat and the sauces. You usually have to wait quite a while, but it is well worth it. I also recommend their empanadas. (1601 Penn Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15222, USA)
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Photo is a stained glass skylight at the Bayernhof.
