Pittsburgh, PA
Whether you’re a new freshman or a senior who’s learned the ropes, Pittsburgh is one of the best college towns in the country. Between the parks, cultural venues, sports events and diverse dining options, the city has something for every student. Restaurants in Pittsburgh span global cuisines—from Caribbean and Indian to German—but when you’re on a student budget, you don’t always want to spend a fortune. Here’s a curated list of affordable local bars and restaurants that are popular with students and located across the city, so you can find good food and a friendly atmosphere no matter where you live off campus.
Off-Campus Restaurant Listings
Big Jim’s Restaurant – 201 Saline Street, Greenfield
Price: $3–$16. Highlights: Classic burgers, pizza and generous half-pound sandwiches. Great for a filling, inexpensive meal.
Buffalo Blues – 216 S. Highland Avenue, Shadyside
Price: $4–$20. Highlights: Hearty ribs and wings, plus many TVs for catching Pitt games with friends.
Conflict Kitchen – 221 Schenley Drive, Oakland
Price: Varies. Highlights: A unique concept that features food from countries the U.S. has political conflicts with—great for trying dishes you might not see elsewhere.
Church Works – 3525 Liberty Avenue, Lawrenceville
Price: $7–$30. Highlights: Craft beer selection paired with thoughtfully prepared dishes; a solid spot for beer lovers.
Fat Head’s Saloon – 1805 Carson Street, Southside
Price: $6–$12. Highlights: Popular wings and an extensive rotating tap list—ideal for after-class hangs.
Fuel & Fuddle – 212 Oakland Avenue, Oakland
Price: $8–$15. Highlights: Late-night crowd pleaser with a half-price menu after 11pm and house-brewed beer.
Hemingway’s Cafe – 3911 Forbes Avenue, Oakland
Price: $8–$15. Highlights: Friendly late-night menu with half-price items after 9pm and inexpensive beer specials.
Joe Mama’s Italian Deluxe – 3716 Forbes Avenue, Oakland
Price: $8–$15. Highlights: Late-night pasta deals, including half-price options—also a comfortable choice to take visiting family.
Lulu’s Noodles – 400 S. Craig Street, Oakland
Price: $1.50–$8. Highlights: Honest, reliable noodle spot that fits tight budgets without sacrificing flavor.
Mineo’s Pizza House – 2128 Murray Avenue, Squirrel Hill and 713a Washington Road, Mt. Lebanon
Price: $1.57–$30. Highlights: Frequently praised for solid, classic pizza—easy to share with friends.
Nied’s Hotel Bar and Restaurant – 5438 Butler Street, Lawrenceville
Price: $4–$13. Highlights: Known for a standout fish sandwich and a relaxed neighborhood vibe.
Original Hot Dog Shop – 3901 Forbes Avenue, Oakland
Price: $4–$10. Highlights: A longtime staple offering a wide beer selection and budget-friendly menu items.
Pamela’s Diner – Multiple locations
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—simple, filling and beloved by students and visitors alike.
Red Oak Cafe – 3610 Forbes Avenue, Oakland
Price: $5–$8. Highlights: Excellent breakfast choices and strong vegetarian options, popular with the campus crowd.
Ritter’s Diner – 5221 Baum Blvd., Bloomfield
Price: $5–$10. Highlights: Classic diner experience with round-the-clock omelets and a nostalgic atmosphere.
Shiloh Grill – 123 Shiloh Street, Mt. Washington
Price: Varies. Highlights: Known for themed nights—like all-you-can-eat bacon—and affordable happy hour offerings.
Sorrento’s Pizza – 233 Atwood Street, Oakland
Price: $3–$10. Highlights: Late-night $5 pizza specials make this a go-to for inexpensive slices after evening classes.
Spice Island Tea House – 253 Atwood Street, Oakland
Price: $3–$14. Highlights: Considered an underrated Thai and Burmese option that’s both different and affordable.
Tessaro’s – 4601 Liberty Avenue, Bloomfield
Price: $5–$25. Highlights: Well-regarded burgers and a welcoming neighborhood feel.
Union Grill – 413 S. Craig Street, Oakland
Price: $8–$15. Highlights: Classic burgers, waffle-cut fries and solid happy hour deals close to campus.
If you want more dining ideas or official listings, check the dining resources provided by your university or student groups. When choosing where to live, consider neighborhoods that keep your favorite spots within walking distance—living near the places you enjoy most can make campus life much more convenient and fun.
Written By Albert Costill