If You Haven’t Eaten These 10 Foods, You Haven’t Lived In Pittsburgh Long Enough
By Beth Price-Williams|Published August 20, 2018
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Beth Price-Williams
Author
A professional writer for more than two decades, Beth has lived in nearly a dozen states – from Missouri and Virginia to Connecticut and Vermont – and Toronto, Canada. In addition to traveling extensively in the U.S. and the U.K., she has a BA in Journalism from Point Park University (PA), a MA in Holocaust & Genocide Studies from Stockton University (NJ), and a Master of Professional Writing from Chatham University (PA). A writer and editor for Only In Your State since 2016, Beth grew up in and currently lives outside of Pittsburgh and when she’s not writing or hanging out with her bunnies, budgies, and chinchilla, she and her daughter are out chasing waterfalls.
Mmm…mmm…Pittsburgh sure does know a thing or two about good food, wouldn’t you say? That’s probably why, in recent years, Pittsburgh has earned the title of “foodie city.” Part of what makes Pittsburgh foods so great is their uniqueness. Some of these popular Pittsburgh foods you’ll find in other places. But, many are a true Pittsburgh original. See how many you’ve tried (and absolutely love).
When’s the last time you’ve had a chipped ham (or chipped-chopped ham, if you prefer) sandwich? Most Pittsburghers grew up with Isaly’s chipped ham in their fridge. It was the go to lunch sandwich, perhaps even more popular than PB&J.
Chances are if you ask for a jumbo sandwich, you’re from the Burgh. And, if someone gives you a funny look when you say "jumbo," they’re definitely not from Pittsburgh. What are you favorite toppings on a jumbo sandwich? (Jumbo’s just Pittsburgh’s term for bologna.)
We, Pittsburghers, have our own way of doing things, especially when it comes to food. And, nothing illustrates that better than the Pittsburgh salad. Order a hearty salad – topped with your favorite veggies and French fries. Yep, French fries might just be able to compete with Heinz ketchup (made in the Burgh, of course) for Pittsburgh’s favorite topping.
The Primantis Brothers sandwich seems to be a hit or a miss with Pittsburghers. That is, you either love it or you hate it. But, if you haven’t tried it, how will you know which side you fall on? Here’s a sneak preview of what to expect. A generous helping of meat topped with fries and coleslaw, sandwiched between two slices of fresh, Italian bread.
Sure, you can get pierogis pretty much anywhere in the U.S. But, the popular Polish dish really has found its home in Pittsburgh. Here’s a hint as to just how much we, Pittsburghers, love our pierogis. Every September means the annual Pierogi Festival at Kennywood. And, you can find the popular dish everywhere from local food trucks to PNC Park.
Haven’t had a burnt almond torte yet? Then, head straight to Prantl’s Bakery for a taste of what’s been called the best cake in America. Invented by Harry Prantl, the burnt almond torte comes in a full-size cake and bar size. So, you can enjoy it no matter how hungry you are.
What’s the best way to top off a delicious meal? Why, with a Smiley from Eat ‘N Park, of course. The Smiley Cookie is as big a part of Pittsburgh as the Steelers. Pittsburghers, who have moved away from the Burgh, will even have dozens of Pittsburgh’s favorite cookie delivered to them, fresh from the Eat ‘N Park oven.
If you haven’t tried Sarris Candies yet, you don’t know what you’re missing. Sure, you can find Sarris’s chocolate-covered pretzels, peanut butter meltaways, and other chocolate goodies in stores around the Pittsburgh area. But, for the most amazing, delicious experience, journey to nearby Canonsburg – a half an hour from downtown – to visit Sarris Candies factory. And, after you’ve sufficiently stocked up on chocolate, stop by Sarris’ old-fashioned ice cream parlor for a delicious ice cream treat.
People fry just about anything these days – pickles, Oreos, you name it. But, for Pittsburghers, fried zucchini is a favorite. Order it at your favorite restaurant – as an appetizer or as the main meal.
Potato Patch fries and summer in the Burgh go hand-in-hand. Kennywood is the place to get Potato Patch fries. The only question is: How do you like your fries? Topped with cheese and bacon? Or, drenched in ketchup or mustard?
Which of these uniquely Pittsburgh foods are your favorite? Or, are there others that aren’t on the list? Let us know in the comments below. Then, click here to read about the seven food faux-pas no Pittsburgher should ever commit.
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