Pittsburgh, a city steeped in history and brimming with cultural diversity, offers more than just pierogies and Primanti’s sandwiches. Look a little closer, and you’ll discover a vibrant and delicious German food scene, a testament to the city’s rich immigrant heritage. From cozy restaurants serving up hearty classics to bustling delis stocked with authentic ingredients, Pittsburgh provides a genuine taste of Germany right here in the Steel City. This guide will navigate you through the best German restaurants, delis, and markets Pittsburgh has to offer, showcasing the variety and authenticity of the cuisine available, from traditional sausage and schnitzel to lesser-known delicacies and delightful German beer.
A Taste of Bavaria in the Burgh: Restaurant Spotlights
Finding a truly authentic German meal can be an adventure. Fortunately, Pittsburgh boasts several establishments dedicated to preserving and celebrating German culinary traditions. Let’s explore some of the top spots where you can enjoy a hearty taste of Deutschland.
Hofbrauhaus Pittsburgh: A Slice of Munich on the South Side
Located on the South Side, Hofbrauhaus Pittsburgh provides an immersive German experience that goes beyond just the food. Modeled after the famous Hofbräuhaus in Munich, this lively establishment features long communal tables, oompah bands, and, of course, a wide selection of authentic German beers brewed on-site.
The menu is a veritable feast of German classics. Start with a giant pretzel, freshly baked and served with obatzda, a creamy cheese spread. For your main course, indulge in the Schweinshaxe, a crispy-skinned pork knuckle that is both impressive and incredibly flavorful. Alternatively, sample their diverse sausage selection, from classic bratwurst to spicy knackwurst, all served with sauerkraut and mustard. Don’t forget to pair your meal with a liter of their signature Hofbräu Original beer.
Hofbrauhaus Pittsburgh is perfect for large groups and anyone looking for a festive and energetic atmosphere. It’s a bit on the pricier side, but the experience and the portion sizes make it worthwhile.
Max’s Allegheny Tavern: A North Side Staple with German Roots
Nestled in the historic Deutschtown neighborhood of Pittsburgh’s North Side, Max’s Allegheny Tavern is a beloved local institution with deep German roots. Serving the community for over a century, this cozy tavern exudes old-world charm and a welcoming atmosphere.
While the menu offers a variety of American comfort food, the German specialties are the stars of the show. The sauerbraten, a traditional German pot roast marinated in vinegar and spices, is a must-try. The schnitzel, available in several variations, is perfectly crisp and tender. Their potato pancakes are also a local favorite, served with applesauce and sour cream. Be sure to check out their daily specials, which often feature other German delicacies.
Max’s Allegheny Tavern provides a more relaxed and intimate dining experience than Hofbrauhaus. It’s an excellent choice for a casual lunch or dinner with friends and family, offering a glimpse into Pittsburgh’s German heritage. This location is also known for its reasonable prices, allowing you to try a diverse array of dishes without breaking the bank.
The Golden Pig: Authentic Flavors in Bloomfield
The Golden Pig brings the flavors of Germany and Hungary to the Bloomfield neighborhood. With a focus on authentic recipes and fresh ingredients, this restaurant offers a unique culinary experience.
The menu features a range of traditional dishes, including goulash, a hearty stew made with beef, onions, and paprika, and stuffed cabbage, filled with ground meat and rice. Their sausages are also a standout, crafted with quality meats and spices, providing a delicious and authentic taste.
The Golden Pig’s ambiance is cozy and inviting, making it a great spot for a relaxed meal. Prices are reasonable, allowing you to enjoy a variety of dishes without overspending. The restaurant’s commitment to using fresh, local ingredients ensures that every bite is full of flavor.
Delis and Markets: Bring the Taste of Germany Home
Sometimes, you want to enjoy German food in the comfort of your own home. Fortunately, Pittsburgh is home to several excellent German delis and markets where you can find everything you need to create an authentic German meal.
Strip District Meats: A Meat Lover’s Paradise
While not exclusively German, Strip District Meats in the historic Strip District offers an impressive selection of German sausages, cold cuts, and smoked meats. From classic bratwurst and knackwurst to landjäger and black forest ham, you’ll find a wide variety of options to satisfy your cravings. They also carry German cheeses, mustards, and other specialty items.
Strip District Meats is a bustling and lively place, especially on weekends. Be prepared for crowds, but the quality and selection are worth it. It’s the perfect place to stock up on ingredients for a German-inspired barbecue or to create a delicious charcuterie board.
Pennsylvania Macaroni Co. (Penn Mac): More Than Just Pasta
While primarily known for its Italian products, Penn Mac in the Strip District also boasts a surprisingly good selection of German cheeses, sausages, and condiments. You can find everything from imported German pickles to Obatzda and Leberkäse.
Penn Mac is a feast for the senses, with aisles overflowing with cheeses, meats, olives, and other delicacies. It’s a great place to browse and discover new ingredients. The prices are generally reasonable, and the staff is knowledgeable and helpful.
A Toast to Tradition: Exploring German Beer in Pittsburgh
No German meal is complete without a proper German beer. German beer culture is deeply rooted in tradition, with the Reinheitsgebot (German Beer Purity Law) ensuring that beer is made only with water, barley, hops, and yeast. This dedication to quality and tradition has resulted in some of the world’s most beloved beer styles.
Many of the restaurants mentioned above offer a wide selection of German beers. Hofbrauhaus, of course, is known for its own brewed-on-site beers. However, other establishments throughout the city also offer impressive German beer lists. Look for classic styles like pilsner, helles, dunkel, weizenbier (wheat beer), and bock.
Some specific German beer brands to look for include Paulaner, Ayinger, Weihenstephaner, and Augustiner. Many local bars and restaurants also carry seasonal German beers, such as Oktoberfestbier in the fall and Maibock in the spring. Be sure to ask your server for recommendations and explore the diverse world of German beer.
Beyond Bratwurst: Discovering Unique German Dishes
While bratwurst and schnitzel are staples of German cuisine, there’s so much more to explore. Consider venturing beyond the basics and trying some of these less common but equally delicious German dishes:
Rouladen: Thin slices of beef rolled with bacon, onions, pickles, and mustard, then braised in a rich gravy.
Spaetzle: Soft egg noodles, often served as a side dish or with cheese and gravy.
Käsespätzle: Spaetzle with lots of melted cheese and usually some fried onions
Sauerbraten: A traditional German pot roast marinated in vinegar and spices, resulting in a tangy and flavorful dish.
Apfelstrudel: A classic German apple strudel, made with flaky pastry and a sweet apple filling.
Some of the restaurants mentioned above, particularly those with a focus on authentic German cuisine, may offer these dishes as specials or on their regular menu. Don’t be afraid to ask!
Pittsburgh’s German Food Scene: A Culinary Gem
Pittsburgh’s German food scene is a testament to the city’s diverse cultural heritage. From lively beer halls to cozy taverns and bustling delis, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re craving a hearty plate of schnitzel, a perfectly poured German beer, or authentic ingredients to create your own German feast at home, Pittsburgh has you covered.
So, grab your friends, raise a stein, and explore the delicious tastes of Germany right here in Pittsburgh! Discover the hidden culinary gems, savor the authentic flavors, and experience the warmth and hospitality of German tradition. You won’t be disappointed. Prost!
