When blogger and TABLE contributor Sophia Chang moved to Pittsburgh in 2011, she searched for community. As a Californian, she was accustomed to access to many types of Asian cuisine. Finding options in the Pittsburgh made her feel less homesick and helped develop her passion for food. Sharing her food heritage through her Instagram account, and supporting local businesses (especially BIPOC, AAPI, and women-owned restaurants, food trucks, and more) is her way of giving back to Pittsburgh.
Asian Food in Pittsburgh
Mola
6018 Penn Ave, East Liberty
Mola specializes in fresh Japanese dishes with quality seafood like uni, sea bream, otoro, and more. Wagyu beef is on the menu, too. Every nigiri/handroll/chirashi is made with love, and you’ll find some amazing dishes you can’t find elsewhere.
Jian’s Kitchen
5824 Forbes Ave, Squirrel Hill
Yes, Jian’s is located in a basement, but don’t let that scare you away: the homestyle Chinese cooking is worth the trek down the stairs. You must try the Salt & Pepper Pork (N3), as well as the Crispy Fish with Hot Chili & Filet Cumin Powder (S12).
Pusadee’s Garden
5319 Butler St, Lawrenceville
Pusadee’s is my go-to recommendation for people visiting Pittsburgh. With a stunning ambiance, and amazing Northern Thai dishes that you won’t find elsewhere in Pittsburgh, this should be at the top of your list always for special occasions.
Banh Mi & Ti
4502 Butler St, Lawrenceville
Banh Mi & Ti not only has the best boba in the Burgh, they also have amazing banh mis, fresh rolls, and (little known!) pho. They are take-out only, but eating on their patio in Lawrenceville is one of my favorite summer things to do.
The Parlor Dim Sum
4401 Butler St, Lawrenceville
The Parlor Dim Sum is one of the few places in Pittsburgh to taste Cantonese and Cantonese-inspired dishes, like dim sum, roasted duck, congee, and more. With special events like their Lunar New Year celebrations, they’re sharing Chinese culture with Pittsburgh in a special way.
Umami
202 38th St, Lawrenceville
Umami is like Pittsburgh’s best nightclub– except instead of a club, they serve amazing grilled food, sushi, sashimi, and drinks. The vibes are so fun, and they’re open late.
Bombay to the Burgh
814 South Braddock Ave, Regent Square
Bombay to the Burgh is one of my favorite spots in the city. While the building facade may be unassuming, the space inside is adorable and cozy, and the food is even better. With fragrant dishes like Korma, Biryani, and more, it’s worth the visit.
Bae Bae’s Kitchen
951 Liberty Ave, Downtown
Bae Bae’s Kitchen serves amazing fusion Korean food. Using fresh local ingredients, their kimchi, dumplings, and Korean fried chicken are out of this world. They’re starting to do more pop-ups, so keep your eye out for fun events.
Story by Sophia Chang / Photography by Dave Bryce
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