Squirrel Hill South, nestled in the eastern heart of Pittsburgh, isn’t just a hub for leafy streets and unique boutiques—it’s a culinary playground that reflects the neighborhood’s vibrant, diverse spirit. Whether you’re craving hand-pulled noodles, a warm bagel on a Sunday morning, or a sweet treat from a beloved bakery, this neighborhood spoils food lovers with variety and quality. Here’s your ultimate guide to the best dining in Squirrel Hill South, including well-loved staples, exciting newcomers, and secret hideaways locals can’t get enough of.
Where the Food Scene Thrives: Murray and Forbes Avenues
Everything delicious in Squirrel Hill South radiates from the intersection of Forbes and Murray Avenues. This bustling corridor is home to an almost dizzying array of eateries—perfect for restaurant-hopping, casual hangs, or lengthy, laughter-filled dinners.
Standout Restaurants: Global Flavors at Your Fingertips
- Everyday Noodles (5925 Baum Blvd, just off Forbes Ave)
- *Cuisine*: Taiwanese/Asian
- *Price*: $$
- *Why Go*: Watch chefs hand-pull noodles through the open kitchen window as you savor soup dumplings or steaming beef noodle soup. Everyday Noodles is a perennial favorite for its authenticity and lively atmosphere—perfect for small groups or solo diners seeking comfort food.
- Bangkok Balcony (5846 Forbes Ave)
- *Cuisine*: Thai
- *Price*: $$
- *Why Go*: Upstairs above the street bustle, Bangkok Balcony offers an extensive menu of flavorful curries, noodles, and vegan-friendly options. Their lunch specials and garden rolls are neighborhood legends.
- How Lee Chinese Restaurant (5884 Forbes Ave)
- *Cuisine*: Szechuan/Chinese
- *Price*: $$
- *Why Go*: Szechuan peppercorns, wok hei, and the kind of heat that fans of authentic Chinese food crave—How Lee is lively, accessible, and never disappoints on classic dishes like Mapo Tofu or Dry Chili Chicken.
- Pigeon Bagels (5613 Hobart St, near Murray Ave)
- *Cuisine*: Bagel Café
- *Price*: $
- *Why Go*: A morning staple, Pigeon Bagels crafts New York-style bagels with creative schmears and sandwiches. Their airy yet chewy bagels draw lines out the door, and with good reason—try the lox, a classic for good reason.
Beloved Bakeries & Sweet Stops
- Five Points Artisan Bakeshop (6520 Wilkins Ave)
- *Cuisine*: Bakery & Pastry
- *Price*: $
- *Why Go*: Just steps outside the main drag, Five Points is a pilgrimage-worthy destination for rustic breads, buttery croissants, and pastries. Arrive early for the best selection, especially on weekends.
- Waffallonia (1707 Murray Ave)
- *Cuisine*: Belgian Waffles
- *Price*: $
- *Why Go*: A whimsical hole-in-the-wall, Waffallonia specializes in Liege-style Belgian waffles—crispy, caramelized, and loaded with toppings from Nutella to whipped cream. A must for dessert lovers or breakfast adventurers.
- Gaby et Jules (5837 Forbes Ave)
- *Cuisine*: French Pastry
- *Price*: $$
- *Why Go*: This patisserie imports Parisian flair to Squirrel Hill with jewel-toned macarons and elegant cakes. It’s the perfect spot for elevating an afternoon or buying a special-occasion treat.
Cozy Cafés for a Perfect Pitt Stop
- Commonplace Coffee (5827 Forbes Ave)
- *Vibe*: Chill, studious, community-oriented
- *Why Go*: Local coffee roasted to perfection, paired with flaky pastries and comfy seats, makes Commonplace one of the best places to work, read, or catch up with friends. Their cold brew is a summertime staple.
- Dobra Tea (1937 Murray Ave)
- *Vibe*: Bohemian, peaceful
- *Why Go*: For tea enthusiasts, Dobra is a world-tour in a cup. Their extensive menu lets you travel from Japanese matcha to Moroccan mint, all enjoyed in a serene, floor-cushion-clad space.
Hidden Gems & Unique Spots
- Chaya Japanese Cuisine (2032 Murray Ave)
- *Cuisine*: Japanese/Sushi
- *Price*: $$$
- *Why Go*: Blink and you’ll miss it, but this family-run spot is arguably the city’s best sushi and izakaya-style plates. The omakase (chef’s choice) is exceptional for those seeking a gastronomic adventure.
- Aladdin’s Eatery (5878 Forbes Ave)
- *Cuisine*: Lebanese/Mediterranean
- *Price*: $$
- *Why Go*: Fresh, healthy Middle Eastern food—hummus, pita, falafel, shawarma—Aladdin’s delivers vibrant flavors in a cozy, family-friendly space. Their vegetarian combo platters are loaded with color and nutrition.
- Silk Elephant (1712 Murray Ave)
- *Cuisine*: Thai Tapas
- *Price*: $$
- *Why Go*: Silk Elephant introduces Thai food in small, shareable plates—perfect for groups or adventurous eaters who want to try a bit of everything. Their mango sticky rice is a local legend.
Food Trucks & Quick Bites
While Squirrel Hill South doesn’t have a designated food truck park, the area’s events and weekend gatherings often feature appearances by local favorites, such as PGH Pierogi Truck or Pita My Shawarma. Keep an eye out near the Forbes/Murray intersection during street fairs or summer Saturdays.
For a quick bite, check out:
- Smallman Street Deli (1912 Murray Ave)
- *Cuisine*: Jewish Deli
- *Why Go*: House-made matzo ball soup, overstuffed sandwiches, and knishes—this local outpost earns rave reviews for its authenticity and fast, friendly service.
- Teppanyaki Kyoto (5808 Bryant St, just outside Squirrel Hill South)
- *Cuisine*: Japanese/Okonomiyaki
- *Why Go*: A short stroll from the heart of Squirrel Hill brings you to one of Pittsburgh’s only okonomiyaki (savory pancake) specialists.
Local Flavor: Jewish and Asian Culinary Heritage
Squirrel Hill South is shaped by its rich immigrant and Jewish heritage. You’ll find some of the best kosher groceries, delis, and bakeries in the city here, especially clustered around Murray Avenue. The Asian food scene is equally vibrant, from bubble tea shops dotting the avenues to specialized restaurants offering everything from Korean bibimbap to Taiwanese shaved ice.
Squirrel Hill South: Dinner Plans for Every Mood
Whether you’re seeking a small family-run eatery, a major crowd-pleaser, or a totally unique culinary experience, Squirrel Hill South fits the bill. The neighborhood’s diversity is reflected plate by plate, and with new spots opening regularly, food exploration here never really ends.
Bring your appetite, your curiosity, and maybe a few friends—no matter how many times you visit Squirrel Hill South, there’s always something mouthwatering waiting around the next corner.