March, we’re ready for you! Cheers to seeing glimpses of spring on the horizon and celebrating bright flavors in the process.
If you’re reading this, I’m manifesting that the worst of the brutal winter is behind us. Fortunately, this means the sun sets later, the days are less grey, and it sets the tone for exploring the city’s current dining scene. I don’t know about you, but I tend to be a happier version of myself knowing we have more sunlight in the day.
This month, I’m focusing on restaurants in Pittsburgh that transport you. No, I don’t mean I want you to feel far away from Pittsburgh, but more so, being able to celebrate our beautifully diverse cuisine landscape that we’re so lucky to have in the Steel City. Read that one more time!
From tiki cocktails to a collision of concepts crafted into a single dumpling, I want this article to get you excited, inspired, and, dare I say, influenced to try something new this month.
Hungry Jess Shares What’s Hot on Pittsburgh Restaurant Menus This March 2026
1708 Shady Ave, Squirrel Hill
Hungry Jess Approved Order: Man O’War mocktail, rotating tacos, Pupu Platter.
I don’t believe I could craft a better description than what’s on their website: “Tucked away in Pittsburgh’s eclectic Squirrel Hill neighborhood, Hidden Harbor offers shelter from life’s stormy seas with an array of tropical cocktails & island eats, served in the Aloha spirit.” I truly couldn’t have said it better myself!
With a menu that also doubles as a work of art, it also contains an endless array of tropical cocktails meant to appeal to everyone, from bright and bracing to dark and dangerous. If you’re a rum fan, this is the spot for you.
On my last visit, my cocktail came in a tiki head and came with a pearl bracelet… yes, I still have it. And it was non-alcoholic.
The Parlor Dim Sum
4401 Butler St, Lawrenceville
Hungry Jess Approved Order: Rotating Juicy Dumplings, Cha Siu Bao, Congee
While planning this article, I knew The Parlor would be at the top of my list of places to include. In full transparency, this spot is another client of mine, but it is truly one of my favorite places in Pittsburgh, regardless. Working with Chef and Owner Roger Li has been a highlight, and also seeing his creativity come to life through every dish is inspiring.
While it’s hard for me to pinpoint just a few dishes to order, one dish definitely stands out to talk about: the Juicy Dumplings. Not to be confused with any other style of dumpling, these are designed to reflect the epitome of Chef Li’s skills: honoring tradition, with his own flair. And, since I’m in charge of posting the weekly, rotating flavors, I more often than not influence my next visit with every post.
Recent flavors have included Korean Beef BBQ, Pork Katsu with curry broth, Chicken Tom Yum… I am salivating just typing about them.
Alberta’s Pizzeria
917 Western Ave, North Side
Hungry Jess Approved Order: Caesar salad, Zucchini Frites, Jabroni (ask for a side of arugula for an extra vegetable)
This is one of my favorite spots I’ve tried so far in 2026. As I said in the recent Best Pittsburgh Pizza Round-Up: “…really cozy energy, moody lighting, an awesome staff, great cocktails and wine. For the pizza, I was pleasantly surprised and impressed: crispy crust, depth of flavor, and a wide array of classic yet elevated topping options. Grab a friend and split everything.”
Emphasis on this being an amazing spot for a GNO moment. Or first date. Or a solo moment at the bar! I already look forward to heading back and trying every pizza on the menu… I mean it.
They do super fun weeknight specials on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, which they drop day-of on their Instagram page. Be sure you’re following before planning your visit!
Soju
4923 Penn Ave, Garfield
Hungry Jess Approved Order: Killer Tofu, Kimchi Caesar Salad, Spicy Chicken Sandwich
Soju is by far one of the places I daydream about the most… and then tell everyone about as a result. One of the many things I love about Soju is that there are zero frills: no reservations, call for takeout, and know that the wait is worth every second.
The Killer Tofu may be the best tofu dish I’ve ever had: saucy, crispy, and you’ll want to dip everything into the remaining saucy goodness.
Chef and Owner, Simon Chough, also weaves in traditional dishes into both the staple menu and daily specials. The Gimbap, Kimchijeon, and BiBimBap are just a few to note. If you’re a soju drinker, this is also the spot for you (and there also may be a cocktail they serve in a can).
I’m already daydreaming about a very near future solo visit to Soju… proof that my own writing easily influences me.
What’s currently on your own hot list? Send me a note to jess@hungryjessbigcity.com!
Plus, learn more about Jess’ opinion on Pittsburgh pizza in her best of the best round-up.
Story and Photos by Jess Iacullo (Hungry Jess)
Subscribe to TABLE Magazine‘s print edition.
