The Pittsburgh Restaurant With Local Roots That Dates Back To The 1800s
By Beth Price-Williams|Published February 16, 2022
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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.
We all know that Pittsburgh’s a foodie city – and for good reason. The city lays claim to a long list of restaurants that have been around for decades. When we’re craving a good meal, we know we can turn to any of those eateries to fill us up. One Pittsburgh restaurant, however, stands above the rest as the oldest and most historic in the city. It is well worth a visit, whether it’s your first or your 100th time.
A trip to Market Square, whether you’re heading out to eat or not, inevitably leads past The Original Oyster House, a beloved Pittsburgh institution since 1870.
A few things have changed in the years since the beloved restaurant first opened. Oysters that once sold for a penny cost a bit more, and you can’t find a beer anywhere for a dime these days.
Yet, despite those changes, much has remained the same in this restaurant that’s figured prominently in a few Hollywood films – The Night of the Living Dead, for example.
When it comes to food, The Original Oyster House may be best known for its delicious coating found on its oysters and fish. An original recipe by the wife of one-time owner Louie Americus, the coating has been a favorite since it was introduced in the early 20th century.
Since 1970 the popular restaurant has been owned by the Grippo family, a lifelong dream fulfilled by Louis Grippo who famously tells of once being kicked out of the restaurant. A rebellious teen at the time, he swore he would buy The Original Oyster House when he was older.
The only thing that really rivals the rich history of The Original Oyster House is the food – served in absolutely huge portions. Make sure you go hungry.
The Jumbo Fish Sandwich earns props as perhaps one of the most popular meals on the menu. If the jumbo simply isn’t big enough, order the Monster Fish Sandwich.
Have you been to this historic Pittsburgh restaurant? What’s the verdict? Share your experience in the comments! Pittsburgh’s all about good food. If you love a good pizza, make your way to Bado’s Pizza Grill. Its pizza recipe hasn’t changed since 1984.
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