June marks many things: the halfway point of the year, the month where summer begins, and, for me personally, the month I was born. I am truly a Gemini through and through: I love changing my mind, I love having a lot of opinions, and I have high taste for the things that I like.
Speaking of which, as you probably noticed throughout this series, I have a long list of favorites that have a few hurdles to jump over. My recommendations for ambiance need great lighting and seating. My favorite bites? Those need to “WOW!” me, which is hard to do. My birthday is always a great excuse to combine all of the above and turn it into an endless celebration.
While I treat most days like a celebration (and, of course, it’s my job to dine out often), this is a unique hotlist that combines many of my favorite specific bites, seatings, and spaces in the city. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday or not this month, this list will serve as a great guide for any night out on the town.
Highlighting Hungry Jess’ Favorite Pittsburgh Restaurants to Explore in June
Hungry Jess’ Favorite Bites
Mexican Street Corn Hand Pie
350 Bakery, South Side
If I could eat one of these a day, I would. Don’t even get me started on their breakfast sandwiches…
Miso Torched Salmon Nigiri
Umami, Lawrenceville
While these are only available during happy hour, I think I could easily eat 20 of these as a meal and be beyond happy.
Caviar
Balvanera, Strip District
It wouldn’t be a birthday without a little caviar, right?! These fried potato cakes topped with a heaping of caviar, crème fraîche, and dill live rent-free in my mind.
Gotabki
Polska Laska, Sharpsburg
This is one of the most pleasantly surprising dishes I’ve had, ever. I think of it often and will use my birthday as an excuse to order it (along with all the pierogi). For those not familiar, this is a dish of beef, pork, and rice stuffed into cabbage, topped with tomato gravy and sour cream. DIVINE.
Bacon, Egg, and Cheese with a Hashbrown
Dad’s Dog & Burger, Bloomfield
On a roll? And a side of hashbrown? Already dreaming of this combination for my post-birthday celebrations recovery meal.
Speaking of Celebrations… Jess’ Favorite Venues for Dining in Pittsburgh
Cabana at Round Corner (Esquina) Cantina
Lawrenceville
You already know I will be outside this year for my birthday, starting with my favorite outdoor bar! This is truly the spot to celebrate everything and anything.
Back Patio at Cafe Du Jour
South Side
If you want a space that transforms you without ever leaving the city, this is IT. I can’t put into words just how special this place is.
Front Wine Bar at Senza
Etna
One of my favorite moody spots: the front wine bar at Senza: the candlelight, the wines, the food… ideal for birthday dessert.
The Bar at Floor 2
Downtown
If you’re looking for an iconic birthday photo with an equally as iconic martini list, this is your spot.
And… Jess’ Favorite Cocktails
Martinis
The Vandal, Lawrenceville
While the Post-Kiss Martini is one of my favorite drinks ever, you can’t go wrong with anything you order.
Martinis (Again)
Jillian’s Restaurant, New Kensington
The Pickle Martini lives rent-free in my head (can you sense a theme here?!), and I’d gladly make every birthday cheers with one.
Bartender’s Choice
Acacia, South Side
A speakeasy with stellar cocktails is always calling to me, but especially on a birthday. Plan to stay awhile (and try a few different cocktails).
Paloma
Kelly’s, East Liberty
Straightforward and no frills, plus a solid food menu if you find yourself needing a snack.
Plus, learn about Jess’ opinion on Pittsburgh pizza in her best of the best round-up.
Story and Photos by Jess Iacullo (Hungry Jess)
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