Pittsburgh, known for its rich history and industrial roots, has a food scene reflecting diverse cultural influences. From traditional foods brought by European immigrants to updated takes on classic dishes, the Steel City offers some of the best foods in the country. Whether you’re visiting PNC Park, strolling through the Strip District, or looking for a great place to eat, these Pittsburgh iconic foods define the city’s top food choices in 2025.

Table of Contents – For Pittsburgh iconic foods

1. The Primanti Brothers Sandwich – A Pittsburgh Classic

Primanti Brothers Restaurant &Amp; Bar — Primanti Brothers Restaurant & Bar – Google Maps

No food represents Pittsburgh better than the Primanti Brothers sandwich. This famous sandwich, stacked with French fries, coleslaw, and various meats, has become synonymous with the city’s rich history and blue-collar roots. Originating in the Great Depression, this unique sandwich was created as a convenient, all-in-one meal for truckers who needed something hearty they could eat on the go.

The Origins and Evolution

The Primanti Bros. sandwich was first served in the Strip District, an area known for its bustling markets and vibrant food culture. Joe Primanti started selling these sandwiches out of a cart in the early 1930s before opening the first Primanti Bros. restaurant. The idea was simple: create a meal that combined portion sizes big enough for hungry workers with the convenience of a sandwich.

Over the years, the sandwich has evolved. Originally made with just grilled meat, coleslaw, and fries on thick slices of Italian bread, it has expanded to include various proteins such as pastrami, capicola, and even fish. While the sandwich was once exclusive to Pittsburgh, it has since expanded beyond Western Pennsylvania, with Primanti Bros. locations now found in New York City, Florida, and beyond. However, its true taste of Pittsburgh remains best experienced in its hometown.

Why the Fries?

One of the most distinctive features of a Primanti Bros. sandwich is the French fries inside the sandwich. Unlike a typical side dish, the fries are deliberately stacked inside the sandwich to enhance the texture and provide a satisfying crunch. This unique twist has helped the sandwich become an internet sensation, frequently trending on TikTok, with food influencers showcasing its huge portion sizes and messy, yet delicious, composition.

Where to Try It

To get the full Primanti Bros. experience, head to:

The Original Primanti Bros. – Located on near Liberty Avenue on 18th Street in the Strip District, this is where it all began.
PNC Park – Grab a Primanti sandwich while watching the Pittsburgh Pirates play.
Other locations – While the chain has expanded, locals agree that nothing beats the original locations in Pittsburgh’s general area.

The Cultural Impact

Beyond being a great place to grab a meal, the Primanti Bros. sandwich has become a symbol of Pittsburgh itself. It embodies the city’s steel industry past and its working-class heritage. The sandwich is not just food—it’s part of Pittsburgh’s sports team culture, a staple at tailgates, and a must-try for visitors wanting to experience the Pittsburgh food scene firsthand.

Over the years, the sandwich has received accolades from major publications, including the Huffington Post, which ranked it among the best foods in America. It has been featured on television shows such as Man v. Food and Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives, further cementing its status as a food city icon.

What’s Next?

While Primanti Bros. has stayed true to its roots, the chain has also introduced updated takes on its classic sandwich, offering variations with different meats and even vegetarian options to appeal to a broader audience. No matter how it evolves, the famous sandwich remains a symbol of Pittsburgh history and one of the most iconic foods in the Steel City.

Source: Primanti Bros. Official Website (primantibros.com)

2. Pittsburgh Salad – A Local Twist on Greens

Pittsburgh takes salads to a new level by adding one simple but delicious twist: French fries on top. This quirky dish, known as Pittsburgh Salad, combines mixed greens, grilled chicken or steak, shredded cheese, and crispy French fries, making it a hearty meal.

The origin of this dish is often debated, but it’s believed that restaurants in the Steel City started topping salads with fries as a way to add more flavor and texture. Unlike traditional salads, the Pittsburgh Salad is meant to be eaten as a meal, rather than as a side.

Best Places to Try It:

Mad Mex – A popular spot serving an updated take on this Pittsburgh staple.
Local shops and restaurants in Squirrel Hill and the Strip District.

3. Pierogies – A Polish Favorite with a Pittsburgh Flair

One of Pittsburgh’s most beloved traditional foods is the pierogi—a dish brought to the city by Polish immigrants in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. These dumplings, stuffed with ingredients such as potatoes, cheese, sauerkraut, or meat, have become a staple in Pittsburgh’s local cuisine and remain one of the most iconic foods in the region.

The History and Rise in Popularity

The arrival of Polish and Eastern European immigrants during the early 1900s played a crucial role in shaping Pittsburgh’s food industry. Many of these immigrants settled in areas such as Squirrel Hill and the Strip District, where they opened small bakeries and eateries that specialized in the foods of their homeland. Pierogies quickly became a household favorite, with families making them from scratch and passing down recipes through generations.

During the steel industry boom, pierogies provided a filling, inexpensive meal for workers who needed sustenance after long shifts. Over time, they evolved beyond home kitchens and became a celebrated part of the Pittsburgh food scene.

Where to Find the Best Pierogies in Pittsburgh

S&D Polish Deli (Strip District) – A staple for authentic Polish pierogies featuring a variety of traditional and modern fillings.
Pierogies Plus – This local favorite, operating out of a former gas station, serves some of the best homemade pierogies in Western Pennsylvania.
Church Festivals and Street Vendors – Many Pittsburgh churches hold pierogi sales, offering delicious, hand-crafted pierogies that rival restaurants.
Pittsburgh Pierogi Festival – this event annually brings together some of the best places to try unique and innovative pierogi flavors.

Modern Takes on Pierogies

While the classic potato-and-cheese pierogi remains the most popular, modern chefs across the city are experimenting with updated takes on this dish. Some of the more creative versions include:

Buffalo Chicken Pierogies – A spicy twist featuring shredded buffalo chicken and blue cheese crumbles.
Dessert Pierogies – Filled with sweet ingredients like Nutella, ricotta, or fresh berries.
Vegan Pierogies – Made with dairy-free and plant-based ingredients to cater to the growing demand for alternative diets.

The Pierogi and Pittsburgh Sports Culture

The pierogi has become so deeply ingrained in Pittsburgh’s culture that even its sports teams have embraced it. The Pittsburgh Pirates hold the beloved Great Pierogi Race during home games at PNC Park, where costumed pierogies race around the field in a fan-favorite event.

The pierogi’s presence in Pittsburgh’s history and culture is undeniable, making it a must-try dish for locals and visitors alike. Whether enjoyed at a family-run deli or from a street vendor in the Strip District, pierogies remain a true taste of Pittsburgh.

4. Potato Patch Fries – Kennywood’s Most Famous Treat

Located in Kennywood Park, Potato Patch Fries are legendary. These hand-cut fries, smothered in cheese, barbecue sauce, or classic Heinz ketchup, have been a staple for decades.

Where to Get Them:

Only at Kennywood Park, making them a must-try for visitors.

5. Burnt Almond Torte – A Pittsburgh Bakery Staple

The Burnt Almond Torte is perhaps the most well-known dessert associated with Pittsburgh, offering a perfect balance of nutty crunch, creamy frosting, and delicate sponge cake. This sweet treat has been a favorite of Pittsburgh natives for decades and is often served during special occasions, from birthdays to weddings.

The History of the Burnt Almond Torte

The origins of the Burnt Almond Torte can be traced back to Prantl’s Bakery, a treasured Pittsburgh institution that has been crafting this dessert for over 50 years. The torte was created as a local adaptation of European almond cakes. Still, Prantl’s unique approach of layering moist sponge cake with silky buttercream and encrusting it with caramelized almonds set it apart.

Prantl’s success with the Burnt Almond Torte led to its national recognition, with publications such as the Huffington Post and the James Beard Foundation listing it as one of the best foods in America. Its popularity continues to grow, making it a must-try dessert for visitors exploring the Pittsburgh food scene.

What Makes It Special?

The Burnt Almond Torte stands out due to its perfect combination of textures and flavors:

Moist sponge cake that is light yet rich.
Creamy buttercream frosting that provides a luscious contrast.
Caramelized almond coating that gives a satisfying crunch and deep, nutty flavor.

The balance of sweet and nutty flavors makes it an irresistible treat, with the almonds adding depth to every bite.

Where to Try It

Prantl’s Bakery – The original home of the Burnt Almond Torte, located in Walnut Street, Shadyside, as well as additional locations across Pittsburgh.
Local specialty stores and bakeries – Many Pittsburgh-area bakeries have started crafting their own versions, though purists insist that Prantl’s remains the best.
Grocery stores – Some major Pittsburgh-area grocery chains offer pre-packaged versions of the torte, making it easy to take home.

How the Torte Has Evolved

While the traditional Burnt Almond Torte remains the most popular, recent years have seen modern adaptations, including:

Chocolate Burnt Almond Torte – A twist on the classic, featuring layers of chocolate sponge cake.
Cupcake versions – Single-serving sizes that maintain the signature crunch and creaminess.
Gluten-free variations – Made to accommodate dietary restrictions while preserving the authentic taste.

A Dessert with Cultural Significance

If you have a sweet tooth, the Burnt Almond Torte is a must-try dessert when visiting Pittsburgh. Its combination of rich history, unforgettable flavor, and cultural significance makes it one of the most iconic foods in the Steel City. Whether you grab a slice at Prantl’s Bakery or try a variation at another specialty store, this legendary dessert is sure to leave a lasting impression.

6. The Big Mac – A Pittsburgh Invention

The world-famous Big Mac was invented by Jim Delligatti in Western Pennsylvania in the 1960s. Delligatti was a McDonald’s franchise owner in the Pittsburgh area. Today, it’s still a globally recognized fast-food favorite.

Fun Fact:

You can visit the Big Mac Museum in North Huntingdon, PA.

7. Smiley Cookies – Eat’n Park’s Most Famous Dessert

Few desserts in Pittsburgh are as widely recognized and beloved as Smiley Cookies. Created by Eat’n Park, these cheerful, colorfully frosted sugar cookies have been a staple for locals since their introduction in the 1980s. Designed as a treat for children dining at the restaurant, these sweet treats quickly became a signature item and a source of nostalgia for generations of Pittsburghers.

The Origins of Smiley Cookies

Eat’n Park, a family-friendly restaurant chain that started in Western Pennsylvania, introduced Smiley Cookies as part of their effort to make dining a fun and welcoming experience for families. Initially given out for free to young diners, the cookies became an instant hit and a symbol of the brand’s commitment to hospitality. Over time, they grew into one of Pittsburgh’s most iconic foods.

What Makes Them Special?

Bright and cheerful design – Each cookie is topped with vibrant icing in a variety of colors, featuring a simple, friendly smile.
Soft, cake-like texture – Unlike traditional sugar cookies, Smiley Cookies have a soft and tender consistency, making them perfect for all ages.
Customizable for holidays and special occasions – Seasonal variations include Halloween-themed jack-o’-lanterns, Christmas trees, and Valentine’s hearts.

Where to Get Them

Eat’n Park locations – The best place to experience these cookies fresh.
Online ordering – Eat’n Park offers nationwide shipping so Pittsburghers who have moved away can still enjoy this nostalgic treat.
Grocery stores and specialty shops – Some local supermarkets and bakeries sell packaged versions.

The Cultural Impact

Smiley Cookies are more than just a dessert—they have become an essential part of Pittsburgh’s history and local identity. Many Pittsburghers associate them with childhood memories, Saturday morning breakfasts, and family outings. The cookies have even been featured on TikTok, where their playful design and vibrant colors make them highly shareable.

Eat’n Park has used the popularity of Smiley Cookies to support charitable efforts, including donations to local hospitals and schools. This community-oriented approach has only strengthened its position as a beloved Pittsburgh tradition.

Expanding Beyond Pittsburgh

While Smiley Cookies originated in Pittsburgh, their appeal has spread beyond Western Pennsylvania. Eat’n Park now offers nationwide shipping, and the cookies have appeared in gift baskets and corporate events across the country.

For anyone visiting Pittsburgh, trying a Smiley Cookie is a must. Whether enjoyed fresh at an Eat’n Park location or delivered to your door, these cookies capture the city’s friendly, welcoming spirit in every bite. They’re not just a dessert; they’re a piece of Pittsburgh’s food history and a true taste of Pittsburgh.

8. City Chicken – A Pittsburgh Polish-American Favorite

Artist Rendition Of City Chicken — Artist rendition of City Chicken

Despite its name, City Chicken contains no chicken. This traditional food, popular in early 1900s Pittsburgh, consists of breaded and fried pork skewers that mimic chicken drumsticks.

Where to Try It:

Found at grocery stores and specialty stores in Squirrel Hill.
Often featured in Pittsburgh food scene festivals.

Source: Local Pittsburgh (localpittsburgh.com)

9. Clark Bar – A Pittsburgh Candy Icon

Candy Clark Bar Wrapper Small — Picture taken by Evan-Amos

The Clark Bar is one of Pittsburgh’s most treasured confections, representing the city’s long-standing presence in the food industry. This sweet treat, first created in the early 20th century, remains a symbol of Pittsburgh’s innovation in candy production.

A Historic Chocolate Legacy

The Clark Bar was invented in 1917 by David L. Clark, an Irish immigrant who founded the D.L. Clark Company in the heart of Western Pennsylvania. The candy bar quickly became popular for its unique crunchy peanut butter core, coated in smooth milk chocolate. Unlike other chocolate bars of the era, the Clark Bar had a distinctive crispy texture, setting it apart from softer confections.

During World War II, the Clark Bar was included in military rations, boosting its popularity nationwide and cementing its reputation as a great place snack among soldiers. Over the decades, the candy changed ownership multiple times, but it remained a Pittsburgh staple.

The Decline and Revival of the Clark Bar

Despite its long-standing popularity, the Clark Bar faced setbacks in the early 2000s when the New England Confectionery Company (NECCO), which had acquired the brand, went bankrupt. This led to uncertainty about its future, leaving many Pittsburgh natives wondering if they’d ever see their beloved candy bar again.

However, in recent years, the Clark Bar has made a sweet comeback thanks to Sarris Candies, a local specialty store known for producing high-quality chocolates. The company revived the Clark Bar, restoring its original flavor and texture while keeping production within the Pittsburgh region. This resurgence has brought renewed excitement for the classic treat.

Where to Find Clark Bars Today

Sarris Candies – One of the most prominent specialty stores in the Pittsburgh area, now producing the Clark Bar.
Local shops and grocery stores – Various food city retailers stock the revived Clark Bar for candy lovers.
Online ordering – Fans across the country can order Clark Bars directly from Sarris Candies and other Pittsburgh-based retailers.

A Cultural Symbol of Pittsburgh

For many locals, the Clark Bar is more than just a chocolate bar—it’s a nostalgic connection to Pittsburgh history. Its rich history in the food industry makes it a symbol of the city’s ability to adapt and thrive, even in changing times.

Today, the Clark Bar is often featured in Pittsburgh-themed gift baskets and continues to be celebrated at specialty stores and local events. Its revival through Sarris Candies showcases the importance of preserving Pittsburgh’s food culture and ensuring that future generations can enjoy this true taste of Pittsburgh.