Experience Over 145 Years Of History When You Visit The Old-School Restaurant In Pittsburgh
By Beth Price-Williams|Published July 28, 2020
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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.
Arguably one of the busiest spots in town, Market Square is the place to go to sit and relax midday, to shop at Christmastime, and to grab a bite to eat from one of the eclectic eateries. The Original Oyster House, an old-school restaurant in Pittsburgh, is the cornerstone of the square, feeding Pittsburghers for nearly a century and a half.
Sat on a corner in Market Square, The Original Oyster House has a long and storied history that dates back 150 years. While the old-school restaurant in Pittsburgh is known for its jumbo fish sandwich...
It's equally well-known for its vibrant history that began in 1870. In those early days, you could get a hearty meal of oysters (just a penny each) and a beer (only 10 cents) for less than a quarter.
It wasn't until the early part of the 20th century that The Original Oyster House became synonymous with its massive fish sandwich, covered in a delicious batter created by Mrs. Americus, the wife of owner Louis Americus.
You might recognize the interior of the old-school eatery from several Hollywood films. The Original Oyster House has starred in more than 25 movies, including Night Of The Living Dead and Three Rivers.
While you can dine outdoors, you'll definitely want to check out the photos of a slew of famous faces and names that adorn the restaurant's walls. The popular Market Square restaurant has been owned by the Grippo Family since 1970.
The history of The Original Oyster House will definitely grab your attention, and your mouth will undoubtedly start watering when you take a peek at the menu.
You'll definitely want to try the fish sandwich. If you're really hungry, order the famous jumbo fish sandwich. If you're really, really hungry, you can't go wrong with the monster fish sandwich. Eat it solo or pair it with a hearty helping of fries, onion rings, or coleslaw.
What’s your favorite old-school restaurant in Pittsburgh? Join the conversation in the comments! If you like exploring historic spots, drive to the oldest covered bridge in the area. Erskine Covered Bridge in West Alexander, in fact, dates back to 1845.
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