More than just black and gold and breathtaking inclines, Pittsburgh is a city brimming with culinary delights, offering a diverse array of flavors perfect for sharing or indulging in yourself. From iconic sandwiches piled high with fries to sweet treats that melt in your mouth, the Steel City’s food scene is a treasure trove waiting to be explored. Whether you’re searching for a unique souvenir, a thoughtful present for a loved one, or simply a delicious way to celebrate a special occasion, the best Pittsburgh food gifts capture the essence of this vibrant city. This guide will navigate you through the must-try edible treasures, offering suggestions for every palate and purpose, ensuring you find the perfect taste of the Burgh to bring home or send afar.
Pittsburgh’s culinary landscape is a testament to its rich history and diverse cultural influences. Generations of immigrants, particularly those from Eastern Europe and Italy, have shaped the city’s food traditions, resulting in a unique blend of hearty, flavorful dishes that are both comforting and innovative. Forget mass-produced trinkets; food is the most authentic way to experience the heart and soul of Pittsburgh. This article will guide you to the best and most unique Pittsburgh food gifts for various occasions and recipients, helping you share a true taste of this incredible city.
Iconic Pittsburgh Food Treasures
When people think of Pittsburgh food, one name invariably comes to mind: Primanti Bros. This iconic sandwich shop is a Steel City institution, famous for its sandwiches piled high with grilled meat, French fries, coleslaw, and tomatoes, all nestled between two thick slices of Italian bread. The beauty of a Primanti’s sandwich is its all-in-one convenience – no need for side dishes when everything is stacked together. While shipping a fully assembled Primanti’s sandwich across the country might present a logistical challenge, you can easily create a do-it-yourself Primanti’s experience for a memorable and delicious gift.
The key to recreating the Primanti’s magic lies in sourcing the essential ingredients. Look for good quality Italian bread, your choice of grilled meat (capicola, pastrami, and kielbasa are popular options), fresh coleslaw, crisp French fries, and ripe tomatoes. You can assemble these ingredients yourself or seek out a local market specializing in Pittsburgh staples, such as a neighborhood deli or Italian grocery store. Package the ingredients in a festive box with instructions on how to build the perfect Primanti’s sandwich, and you’ll be giving the gift of a true Pittsburgh culinary adventure.
No discussion of Pittsburgh food would be complete without mentioning pierogies, those humble yet delicious dumplings that have become a symbol of the city’s Eastern European heritage. Pierogies are traditionally made with a filling of mashed potatoes and cheese, but variations abound, including sauerkraut, meat, and even sweet fillings like fruit. These little pockets of goodness are a staple at Pittsburgh restaurants, festivals, and family gatherings, and they make a wonderful and comforting food gift.
For an authentic pierogi experience, consider sourcing your pierogies from a local Pittsburgh institution. S&D Polish Deli in the Strip District is a beloved spot known for its traditional Polish fare, including handmade pierogies in a variety of flavors. Apteka, a vegan restaurant in Bloomfield, offers plant-based pierogies that are just as delicious and satisfying as the traditional version. Many local grocery stores also carry frozen pierogies from regional producers, making it easy to stock up and ship them to friends and family. Whether you choose frozen pierogies for easy shipping or fresh pierogies for local delivery or pickup, these dumplings are sure to bring a taste of Pittsburgh comfort to any occasion.
And, of course, no Pittsburgh food gift list would be complete without mentioning Heinz. The H.J. Heinz Company, a Pittsburgh icon, has been producing ketchup and other condiments for over a century, and its products are a staple in kitchens around the world. While ketchup may seem like a humble gift, Heinz offers a range of other products that are perfect for adding a touch of Pittsburgh flavor to any meal.
Explore the Heinz History Center gift shop for a selection of unique and gift-worthy Heinz products, such as specialty sauces, relishes, and even Heinz-branded merchandise. Look for limited-edition flavors or gift sets that showcase the company’s rich history and commitment to quality. A bottle of Heinz ketchup may be a classic, but a collection of Heinz condiments is a truly thoughtful and versatile Pittsburgh food gift.
Sweet Treats from Pittsburgh
Beyond the savory delights, Pittsburgh offers a wealth of sweet treats that are sure to satisfy any sugar craving. One of the most iconic desserts in the city is the Burnt Almond Torte from Prantl’s Bakery. This decadent cake features layers of moist vanilla cake, creamy custard filling, and a generous coating of caramelized almonds.
The Burnt Almond Torte is a Pittsburgh institution, beloved for its rich flavor and elegant appearance. It’s the perfect centerpiece for any celebration and a truly memorable food gift. Prantl’s Bakery has multiple locations throughout the Pittsburgh area, making it easy to pick up a torte for local delivery or pickup. Check their website for shipping options if you want to send this Pittsburgh classic to someone far away. The Burnt Almond Torte is a taste of Pittsburgh elegance that is sure to impress.
For chocolate lovers, a trip to Sarris Candies is a must. This family-owned candy store has been delighting Pittsburghers for generations with its wide selection of chocolates, candies, and ice cream. Sarris Candies offers a variety of gift-worthy treats, from chocolate-covered pretzels and peanut butter meltaways to chocolate bars and seasonal specialties.
Sarris Candies is known for its high-quality ingredients and its commitment to traditional candy-making techniques. Their iconic ice cream parlor is a must-visit for anyone with a sweet tooth, but their chocolates are equally impressive. Whether you’re looking for a small token of appreciation or a lavish gift basket, Sarris Candies has something to satisfy every taste. Visit their locations in Canonsburg or online to browse their extensive selection and find the perfect Pittsburgh chocolate treat.
If you’re looking for a fun and unique snack, look no further than the Pittsburgh Popcorn Company. This local company offers a wide variety of gourmet popcorn flavors, from classic buttered popcorn to more adventurous options like the Yinzer Mix (a blend of sweet and savory flavors) and caramel pretzel.
The Pittsburgh Popcorn Company takes popcorn to the next level with its creative flavor combinations and high-quality ingredients. Their popcorn is perfect for snacking, sharing, or giving as a gift. They offer a variety of gift-worthy popcorn flavors and packaging, including specialty tins and gift boxes. Visit their locations throughout Pittsburgh or shop online to find the perfect popcorn treat for any occasion.
Savory and Spicy Pittsburgh Delights
Pittsburgh-style barbecue is a unique culinary experience, characterized by its tangy, vinegar-based sauces and its slow-smoked meats. While barbecue styles vary across the country, Pittsburgh barbecue has a distinct flavor profile that is all its own. If you’re looking for a savory and spicy Pittsburgh food gift, consider bottling up some local barbecue sauce.
Many local Pittsburgh restaurants known for their barbecue offer their signature sauces for sale in bottles. Look for sauces that are tangy, vinegary, and slightly sweet, with a hint of spice. A bottle of Pittsburgh-style barbecue sauce is the perfect way to add a touch of Steel City flavor to any backyard barbecue. Check with your favorite local barbecue restaurant to see if they sell their sauce bottled, or visit a local market specializing in Pittsburgh products.
Pennsylvania Macaroni Company, affectionately known as Penn Mac, is a Pittsburgh institution that has been serving the city’s Italian community for over a century. Located in the heart of the Strip District, Penn Mac is a treasure trove of Italian groceries, from olive oils and aged cheeses to cured meats and balsamic vinegars.
Penn Mac is the perfect place to find high-quality, authentic Italian ingredients for a unique and flavorful Pittsburgh food gift. Consider putting together a gift basket filled with Penn Mac staples, such as a bottle of extra virgin olive oil, a wedge of aged Parmesan cheese, and a selection of cured meats. During the holiday season, Penn Mac is also known for its delicious Panettone, a traditional Italian sweet bread that makes a wonderful gift. A visit to Penn Mac is a culinary adventure in itself, and their products are sure to impress any food lover.
Pittsburgh’s craft beer scene has exploded in recent years, with a growing number of local breweries producing high-quality and innovative beers. A selection of local craft beers paired with complementary snacks is a perfect way to showcase Pittsburgh’s vibrant brewing culture.
Visit local breweries like East End Brewing, Dancing Gnome, or Hitchhiker Brewing to find a variety of craft beers in different styles. Pair the beers with snacks like pretzels, cheese, or jerky for a complete and satisfying gift. Local bottle shops often carry a wide selection of Pittsburgh craft beers, making it easy to put together a curated gift basket. A Pittsburgh craft beer and snack pairing is a perfect way to celebrate the city’s thriving brewing scene.
Experiences and Unique Gift Ideas
Beyond tangible food items, consider gifting a Pittsburgh culinary experience. A cooking class focused on Pittsburgh cuisine is a unique and memorable way to learn about the city’s food traditions.
Many local cooking schools and culinary centers offer classes on making pierogies, haluski, or other Pittsburgh specialties. A cooking class is a gift of learning a new skill and experiencing Pittsburgh’s food culture firsthand. Check local listings for cooking classes focused on Pittsburgh cuisine.
A gift certificate to a local Pittsburgh restaurant is a versatile and thoughtful gift that allows the recipient to choose their own culinary adventure. Pittsburgh boasts a diverse range of restaurants, from fine dining establishments to casual eateries, offering something for every taste and budget.
Consider highlighting restaurants with a strong Pittsburgh connection or a focus on local ingredients. A gift certificate to a local restaurant is a perfect way to support the city’s culinary scene and give the gift of a delicious meal.
For a comprehensive taste of Pittsburgh, consider gifting a Pittsburgh food tour. Several companies offer guided food tours of Pittsburgh neighborhoods, such as the Strip District and Lawrenceville, allowing participants to sample a variety of local foods and learn about the city’s culinary history.
A Pittsburgh food tour is a great way to explore the city’s diverse food scene and discover hidden culinary gems. It’s a perfect gift for both locals and visitors alike.
Packaging and Presentation Tips
When giving Pittsburgh food gifts, pay attention to the packaging and presentation. Emphasize Pittsburgh-themed packaging by using wrapping paper, ribbons, or gift bags featuring the city skyline, the Steelers colors, or other Pittsburgh icons.
A handwritten note adds a personal touch to any gift. Express your appreciation and share a memory related to Pittsburgh or the specific food item you’re giving.
Consider creating a Pittsburgh-themed gift basket by combining multiple food items from different categories. A gift basket filled with pierogies, Heinz ketchup, Sarris Candies chocolates, and a local craft beer is a perfect way to showcase the diversity of Pittsburgh’s food scene.
Pittsburgh offers a wide variety of delicious and unique food gifts that are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a souvenir, a present for a loved one, or simply a way to celebrate a special event, the Steel City’s culinary treasures are sure to impress. Explore Pittsburgh’s food scene and find the perfect gifts to share with your loved ones, and give a gift that brings a true taste of the Burgh. So, next time you’re looking for a truly special gift, look no further than the flavors of Pittsburgh. It’s a taste of the Burgh they won’t soon forget!
