Pittsburgh, PA
Pittsburgh is an outstanding college city, full of outdoor activities, cultural attractions, sporting events and an eclectic restaurant scene. From Caribbean to Indian to German cuisine, the city offers many options, and students can easily find affordable spots beyond the well-known Primanti’s or Quaker Steak’s. Below is a curated list of wallet-friendly bars and restaurants popular with students across Pittsburgh. These picks are spread throughout the city, so whether you live on campus or off, you’ll have plenty of accessible places to grab a meal or a drink.
Off-Campus Restaurant Listings
Big Jim’s Restaurant – 201 Saline Street, Greenfield
Price: $3–$16 – Highlights: Classic burgers, pizza and generous half-pound sandwiches—simple, satisfying and budget-friendly.
Buffalo Blues – 216 S. Highland Avenue, Shadyside
Price: $4–$20 – Highlights: Ribs and wings with a lively atmosphere and plenty of TVs to catch Pitt games.
Conflict Kitchen – 221 Schenley Drive, Oakland
Price: Varies – Highlights: A unique rotating menu featuring food from countries the U.S. is in conflict with — a thoughtful, ever-changing concept.
Church Works – 3525 Liberty Avenue, Lawrenceville
Price: $7–$30 – Highlights: Award-winning food and a strong focus on handcrafted beers. A great spot for beer lovers.
Fat Head’s Saloon – 1805 Carson Street, Southside
Price: $6–$12 – Highlights: Known for wings and a rotating selection of 42 beers on tap.
Fuel & Fuddle – 212 Oakland Avenue, Oakland
Price: $8–$15 – Highlights: Half-price menu after 11pm and house-brewed beers—ideal for late-night dining on a budget.
Hemingway’s Cafe – 3911 Forbes Avenue, Oakland
Price: $8–$15 – Highlights: Half-price menu after 9pm and $1.50 beer specials; a dependable late-night option.
Joe Mama’s Italian Italian Deluxe – 3716 Forbes Avenue, Oakland
Price: $8–$15 – Highlights: Late-night specials including half-price pasta—also suitable for family visits.
Lulu’s Noodles – 400 S Craig Street, Oakland
Price: $1.50–$8 – Highlights: Inexpensive, reliable noodle dishes that are perfect for students on a tight budget.
Mineo’s Pizza House – 2128 Murray Avenue, Squirrel Hill and 713a Washington Road, Mt. Lebanon
Price: $1.57–$30 – Highlights: Widely regarded as some of the best pizza in the area, with options to fit different budgets.
Nied’s Hotel Bar and Restaurant – 5438 Butler Street, Lawrenceville
Price: $4–$13 – Highlights: Famous for what many call the best fish sandwich in the city.
Original Hot Dog Shop – 3901 Forbes Avenue, Oakland
Price: $4–$10 – Highlights: A longstanding favorite since 1960, known for its extensive selection of micro and craft beers and low prices.
Pamela’s Diner – 4 locations
- 60 21st Street, The Strip District
- 3703 Forbes Avenue, Oakland
- 5527 Walnut Street, Shadyside
- 5813 Forbes Avenue, Squirrel Hill
Price: $5–$10 – Highlights: Famous crepe-style hotcakes—a must-try staple for breakfast lovers.
Red Oak Cafe – 3610 Forbes Avenue, Oakland
Price: $5–$8 – Highlights: Strong breakfast menu and one of the best vegetarian-friendly spots near Pitt.
Ritter’s Diner – 5221 Baum Blvd., Bloomfield
Price: $5–$10 – Highlights: Classic diner experience with jukeboxes and all-day omelets.
Shiloh Grill – 123 Shiloh Street, Mt. Washington
Price: Varies – Highlights: Fun specials like all-you-can-eat bacon on Tuesdays, $5 wine on Wednesdays, and daily happy hour deals.
Sorrento’s Pizza – 233 Atwood Street, Oakland
Price: $3–$10 – Highlights: Late-night $5 pizza from 8pm to 3am—great for after-hours cravings.
Spice Island Tea House – 253 Atwood Street, Oakland
Price: $3–$14 – Highlights: A lesser-known Thai and Burmese spot worth checking out for flavorful, affordable dishes.
Tessaro’s – 4601 Liberty Avenue, Bloomfield
Price: $5–$25 – Highlights: Known for serving some of the best burgers in town.
Union Grill – 413 S. Craig Street, Oakland
Price: $8–$15 – Highlights: Casual favorite for burgers, waffle-cut fries and solid happy hour deals.
If you want more dining options, the University of Pittsburgh maintains a detailed list of local places to eat. And if living closer to your favorite spots is a priority, consider checking local off-campus rental listings to find housing near the restaurants and bars you frequent.
Written By Albert Costill