Growing up in Pittsburgh, the game of football—and the Steelers—was synonymous with the city itself. From thousands of Terrible Towels whirling around between quarters, a legendary symbol of Steelers loyalty, to the cheers echoing through Heinz Field (now Acrisure Stadium), the team’s presence in Pittsburgh has always been impossible to ignore. And from April 23 to 25, Pittsburgh will be stepping onto the national stage as host of the 2026 NFL draft, for the first time since 1948.
After spending the past two years preparing for the over 500,000 attendees expected to flood the city this week, Pittsburgh has undergone major infrastructure upgrades, expanded event programming and citywide coordination efforts. But it’s not just about the picks—it’s also about planning where to eat and drink. From time-honored local institutions to buzzy dining destinations and draft weekend specials, consider this your culinary companion to navigating Pittsburgh during the NFL draft and beyond.
The City’s Signature Sips
To kick off the busy week, fuel up with rich espresso and flaky pastries, courtesy of some of the best coffee shops the city has to offer: La Prima Espresso Co, Espresso a Mano and Commonplace Coffee.
A Pittsburgh tradition since 1988, La Prima Espresso is both a coffee roaster and caffè, now with locations in the Strip District, Downtown and Oakland. Be sure to snag a bag of small-batch roasted beans to go. In Lawrenceville, Espresso a Mano is an espresso bar and coffee shop with industrial interiors, a homey atmosphere and a loyal neighborhood following—for good reason. Pittsburgh’s coffee scene wouldn’t be complete without Commonplace, born out of a desire to foster community through coffee, with multiple locations across the city so you’re never far from a well-crafted cup.
When day turns to night, explore Pittsburgh’s craft beverage scene, perfect for fans of local brews and elevated cocktails. Grist House Craft Brewery is known for its incredible variety of craft beers and local food trucks; Cinderlands Beer Co. for its ales and sours; Trace Brewing as a coffee shop by day and brewery by night; Allegheny City Brewing for its well-rounded tap list; and finally, Dancing Gnome for hop-forward styles and Hitchhiker Brewing Company for adventurous flavors in Sharpesburg. For cocktail enthusiasts, head to The Warren Bar and Burrow, or if you’re after panoramic skyline views, stop by The Finch at The Distillery Complex.
Haute Cuisine And Noteworthy Restaurants
In terms of the city’s dining scene, Pittsburgh has no shortage of diverse offerings, ranging from contemporary American restaurants to Polish eateries and everything in between. Start at Piccolo Forno, a charming Tuscan Italian restaurant in Lawrenceville known for its wood-fired pizzas, handmade pastas and tiramisu. Alternative—but equally delicious—Italian options are Mercurio’s, DiAnoia’s Eatery and Dish Osteria Bar.
For hidden gems, look to Pusadee’s Garden and Alihan’s. The former serves Thai plates and cocktails in a striking glass-enclosed dining area and lush garden, while the latter boasts an oasis of Turkish cuisine with top-notch service downtown. For elevated American cuisine, swing by Scratch & Co., Lilith or Fig & Ash. Each puts its own fresh spin on seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients and classic American flavors.
And if your group can’t decide what you’re in the mood to eat, head to Federal Galley, Lawrence Hall or the Strip District Terminal—sleek food halls with a variety of delicious restaurants under one roof.
Local Legends And Iconic Pittsburgh Dishes
Drawing upon the city’s deep Polish and Italian roots, hearty comfort foods are often the first dishes visitors think to sample in Pittsburgh. These waves of immigrant, working-class cooking traditions have shaped the city’s culinary identity over the past century and remain central to its food culture today.
Begin with the iconic Primanti Bros. sandwich—Italian bread stuffed with grilled meat, melted cheese, coleslaw, tomato slices and the signature addition of French fries. First served to hungry truck drivers and shift workers in the Strip District, Primanti Bros. has since become a Pittsburgh institution and a rite of passage for locals and visitors alike.
For some of the city’s best pierogies, head to Polska Laska or S&D Deli. Craving a sweet treat? Try Prantl’s iconic burnt almond torte, a cake layered with rich custard and buttercream and coated in candied toasted almond slivers.
For a quick bite in between picks, explore Pittsburgh’s storied pizza history. Head to Mineo’s for a classic, old-school slice or Beto’s for its distinctive, Ohio Valley-style pie: cold toppings sprinkled over a crispy square cut. And for a memorable brunch before leaving the city, stop by Pamela’s, a classic diner that’s known for its signature hotcakes, lyonnaise potatoes and long list of famous visitors.
NFL Draft Week Specials
Sprinkled throughout the week’s football celebrations are culinary-driven draft events. From 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, April 22, visitors can experience the “Taste of the Draft,” a culinary and philanthropic extravaganza bringing together celebrated chefs, Steelers legends and philanthropic partners—all with the goal of expanding access to 13.5 million school meals, with a focus on at-risk communities. As a more upscale, charity-centric evening, ticket prices run on the pricier side, upwards of $500, but there are plenty of low-cost and free events throughout the city as well.
One such event, deemed “the NFL’s ultimate fan festival,” is the 2026 NFL Draft Experience, taking place from April 23 to 25 in the North Shore. Alongside food vendors highlighting a range of cuisines and iconic Pittsburgh restaurants, this free fan experience includes participatory games and clinics on Acrisure Stadium’s field, current NFL player appearances, immersive exhibits and more.
For another celebratory kickoff, pop by Pittsburgh Brewing Company on April 23 for the city’s Official Pittsburgh Draft Watch Party. General admission tickets start at $15 per person. With doors opening at 5:00 p.m., the event promises a live broadcast, massive outdoor screens, fan zone activities and most importantly, a celebratory evening of football, food and hometown pride.
Throughout the week, across neighborhoods like the Strip District, Lawrenceville and North Shore, restaurants and bars will be leaning into the excitement with extended hours, themed menus and game-day specials. Expect packed patios and all-day watch parties as the city’s dining scene turns into an extension of the draft itself.
