Best Tapas In Pittsburgh
Tapas are traditional Spanish appetizer-size small plates that are typically served as a compete dinner, Tapas have grown in popularity in recent years, and small plate menus can now be found at bars, restaurants and brewpubs throughout the city of Pittsburgh, each with a different twist according to the restaurant's style. Although these dishes are small in portion, they are usually packed with flavors, making them a delightful culinary experience. Tapas are perfect for enjoying with friends over happy hour or for enjoying a light meal on date night. Here are some great places to enjoy tapas in Pittsburgh.
Pallantia Tapas De Espana
810 Ivy St.
Pittsburgh, PA 15232
(412) 621-2919
www.pallantiapgh.com
Located in Shadyside, Pallantia is a traditional Spanish tapas restaurant. The eatery uses ingredients imported from Spain to maintain the authenticity of the dishes offered. Dishes change seasonally to ensure the freshest ingredients are used. The menu features cheese and meat plates, apples and blue cheese, beets and quinoa. In addition, richer tapas dishes such as lamb meatballs, PEI mussels and braised rabbit are available.
Perle
25 Market St.
Pittsburgh, PA 15222
(412) 471-2058
www.perlepgh.com
Perle is a European-style champagne lounge located in Market Square. The menu features a wide variety of champagne and cocktails, with small dishes to complete the tasting experience. At Perle, you can enjoy small plates such as catfish fingers, pork kebabs and blackened fish tacos. If your party is feeling adventurous, try the crispy fried alligator. Or for something a little more traditional, order a cheese and charcuterie plate.
The Livermore
124 S Highland Ave.
Pittsburgh, PA 15206
(412) 361-0600
www.thelivermorepgh.com
If you are in Lawrenceville, you can enjoy a fun happy hour with friends at The Livermore. From 5-6 pm Tuesday through Saturday, the food menu is half price along with a revolving selection of $6 cocktails. Enjoy small plates such as bruschetta with anchovy, salami, beet salad and select cheeses. The Livermore also features a fairly new concept as a no-tip restaurant, specifying that the staff is paid a salary, so tipping is not necessary.
Insurrection Ale Works
1635 E Railroad St.
Heidelberg, PA 15106
(412) 276-2030
www.insurrectionaleworks.com
Located in Heidelberg, Insurrection Ale Works features a menu of craft beers in a comfortable atmosphere. Enjoy beer flights with your friends while also creating a custom board of cheeses and meats to enjoy. Select your favorites from a rotating menu of cheeses and meats, such as flavored goat cheeses, blue, Asiago, Gouda, salami and soppressata. Other small pates include prosciutto-wrapped cantaloupe, stuffed pork meatballs and hummus.
Spoonwood Brewing Company
5981 Baptist Road
Pittsburgh, PA 15236
(412) 833-0333
www.spoonwoodbrewing.com
If you are a fan of craft beer, Spoonwood Brewing Company in the South Hills is also a great option for tapas. This casual brew pub features a small plate menu to perfectly compliment its beer offerings. Try a plate of mussels, barbeque bacon wrapped shrimp, hummus or a cheese and charcuterie board. If you want to try something a bit different, order the roasted bone marrow served with garlic crouton bits on crostini. The dish is full of sensational flavor and texture.
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Jennifer Stockdale is a native of the greater Pittsburgh, PA area. She is a restaurant marketer and wine enthusiast and one of the hosts of the East Coast Wine Geeks Podcast. Her work can be found at Examiner.com.