You have to eat, so why not make dining destinations a part of your travel?
One of the most difficult parts of dining in Pittsburgh is choosing from the numerous establishments the city has to offer. One way to proceed is to explore the city through its smaller neighborhoods, where restaurants quickly gain or lose a reputation among locals. These restaurants are considered affordable fine dining options: selections where customers pay a slightly higher price, but avoid the premium of fine dining.
Point Brugge Cafe
When the grilled cheese sandwich is created on rye, with a blend of cheeses and roasted red peppers added, you can tell the restaurant takes its food a step beyond. A feature menu item is one pound of mussels, which come with sauce options from a classic white wine and cream to coconut curry or tomato and seafood broth. The cheese platter is made for sharing, with a wide range of cheeses and accompaniments. Vegetarian options include a marinated tofu sandwich in the Banh Mi style. Steak and seafood entrees are supported by alternatives such as mustard crusted salmon, chicken Milanese and charcuterie of chop and beer braised sausage. This Point Breeze restaurant is closed on Mondays. It serves lunch and dinner Tuesday through Friday, and brunch and dinner on Sunday. Reservations are not taken at this location.
Point Brugge Cafe
401 Hastings St.
Pittsburgh, PA 15206
412-441-3334
pointbrugge.com
Melting Pot
Around the Station Square area, diners can try fondue dining with cheese blends from traditional to those that offer Mexican spice, cook their selections in oil, or try one of many seasoned broths. Protein combinations of seafood, shrimp and sirloin or Pacific Rim-inspired options are among the many meats available. Vegetarian entrees include marinated tofu and portobello mushrooms. Couples looking for a romantic experience can try late night service that includes cheese and chocolate fondue, plus a bottle of wine. The restaurant serves a wide variety of wine and specialty drinks. A gluten-free menu is available.
Melting Pot
125 W. Station Square Drive
Pittsburgh, PA 15219
412-261-3477
meltingpot.com
Pangea
In the Shadyside neighborhood of the city's East End, Pangea delivers international cuisine, live music and free wi-fi service. The restaurant features an in-house pastry chef and flights--a sampling of three variations on a theme of food or beverage. Customers can keep to the lighter menu selections--such as poached pear with arugula and Belgian endive--or delve into decadent appetizers like the Brie and mushroom pastry. Lunch brings trenne Provencal and filet mignon sandwiches. Entrees include free range chicken with a black bourbon glaze, handmade pici pasta gratin and cumin crusted pork tenderloin with organic wild black rice. The drink menu is as deep as the regular menu, featuring an array of coffee drinks, wine, beer and liquor.
Pangea
736 Bellefonte St.
Shadyside, PA 15232
412-621-3152
pangea-shadyside.com
Tags: Brugge Cafe, fine dining, include marinated, include marinated tofu, marinated tofu, Point Brugge
