Hidden Gems for Food and Drink

[honeychile]

Mostly in south suburban Pittsburgh:

Ice Cream: Bruster's. I'm at the point where it's Brusters, or do without. There about 8 locations.

Chinese: Sesame Inn. It's a local chain, and people have their favorites, but it's always good, no matter where or which cuisine you prefer.

Italian AND Fish: Pasta Too. You know how every city seems to have one food that just has to be right, or you may as well close the restaurant? In the 'burgh, it's the fish sandwich. It's easily a pound of fish, with an English style batter. Their other menu items are great too (their wedding soup is to die for!) - my two complaints are that it's always crowded, and the front door is much too hard to open. It's on Library Road (Rte. 88), at South Park.

Mexican/Tex-Mex: Jose and Tony's. On McFarland Road, just off of Banksville, it's been a staple for years, and is much more authentic than the chains.

German: Max's Allegheny Tavern. They have an incredible "beer and spirits" list, to compliment a very well mixed menu of mostly German food. I never considered myself a fan of German food until I went there - now, I'm hooked! It's on Suissmon Street, on the North Side.