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Squirrel Hill is on the rise to become Pennsylvania’s coolest, lowkey dining spot. It’s a quiet, residential neighborhood, home to a growing culinary scene and flavors from all around the world. From Lebanese cuisine, through to Italian classics, here are the best Squirrel Hill Restaurants:
1. Silk Elephant
Silk Elephant offers delicious Thai tapas and is one of the most popular spots in Squirrel Hill. It’s a chic restaurant that would be a great spot for a date or for a birthday gathering, and the food is truly excellent. The menu changes weekly and on the specials board you can find options such as Thai pumpkin soup, spicy crab bisque, and papaya salad. Some of the staple menu choices include dumplings, spring rolls, satay chicken, and tofu wedges. It’s easily some of the best food in Pittsburgh.
2. Ramen Bar
Ramen Bar is a small, no-frills restaurant offering steaming hot bowls of ramen. You can build-your-own-ramen or opt for staple ramen options, such as ramen with roasted pork and an egg, or vegetarian selections featuring spring greens and mushrooms. Sides include coconut shrimp, edamame beans, and shrimp gyoza.
3. Aladdin’s Eatery
If you’re looking for the mouthwatering flavors of Lebanese and Middle Eastern cuisine, look no further than Aladdin’s Eatery. It serves up Middle Eastern classics, such as falafel, hummus, fresh Lebanese salads, and stuffed pittas. Be sure to order its baba ghanoush dip too. The menu is well-labeled with gluten-free, vegetarian and vegan options, so it’s a great spot if you have a restricted diet. They also offer Middle Eastern desserts and cakes.
4. Talia Cucina
For delicious Italian dishes, Talia should be your first stop. It’s a modern twist on a traditional Italian charcuterie. The menu offers homemade pasta dishes, pizzas, and delicious meat boards. They also have over 40 Italian wines to pair with your dish. Some of the best dishes include shrimp pizza, ricotta gnocchi, and grilled octopus.
5. Aiellos Pizza
Aiellos Pizza is a restaurant that serves pizzas and other Italian-American options. Try the zucchini sticks with marinara dipping sauce or the pepper cheese bites as a side. As for pizzas, there’s a whole range of options and something to suit everyone.
While you’re passing through the state, check out some other great things to do in Pensylvania, such as the best amusement parks or fall festivals.
6. Murray Avenue Grill
Murray Avenue Grill is home to comfy booths and a vast menu for all palates. It’s best known for its gourmet burgers that will leave you feeling very full until your next meal, alongside a range of fresh salads. Some of the top options include Mahi Mahi fish tacos or the famous salmon burger. If it’s a big meaty burger you’re after, the options are plentiful.
7. Chaya Japanese Cuisine
Chaya Japanese Cuisine serves up delicious Japanese and sushi plates under the watchful eye of experienced chef Fumio Yasuzawa. There are almost 100 sushi options on the menu, alongside good-value complete dinners that include appetizers, sashimi, tempura, sukiyaki, rice, soup, and desserts. You won’t be going home hungry!
8. Coriander Indian Grill
Serving up Indian cuisine classics such as naan bread, popadoms, tandoor meats, biryanis and much, much more, Coriander Indian grill is your slice of India in Pittsburg. Order the super spicy vindaloo curry, if you dare!
9. NU Jewish Bistro
NU Jewish Bistro, close to Squirrel Hill, is one of the area’s most up-and-coming restaurants. The menu features cured and smoked meats, pastrami sandwiches, bagels, and warming soups. Be sure to sample the shakshuka, which is an Israeli dish made from tomatoes, peppers, and eggs.
10. Point Brugge Cafe
Point Brugge Cafe offers a slice of Europe in Squirrel Hill, It’s a Belgian-style bistro that serves European classics such as cheese boards, cured meats, Moules Frites, and fresh salads.