Whether you’re from Pittsburgh or a thousand miles away, being a first-time college student in a new city is the perfect time for exploration and discovery. But, what about the restaurants, cafes and venues off the beaten path? The following spots may not be on your RA’s welcome week board, but they sure are worth a stop as you discover the city. 

Local places to grab a bite

Green Pepper, Squirrel Hill

Take any of the PRT route 61s down Forbes until you hit the Murray Avenue stop, then avoid Squirrel Hill’s ever enticing “main street” area for a sharp right turn down Murray. Let your hunger drive you up and down the hill until you land at the welcoming arms of Green Pepper Korean food.

There’s no better way to get to know some new friends than bonding over their classic bibimbap topped with a fried egg or exploring its perfectly curated menu. The restaurant feels homey and welcoming, great for any homesick first year or those just looking for a hearty meal as a break from The Eatery. While Green Pepper is definitely pricier than some of the cheaper chain spots on Forbes or Fifth, it’s worth it for its food.

Ritter’s Diner, Shadyside 

There’s nothing like a classic diner breakfast, especially at Ritter’s. The restaurant has been serving hungry Pittsburghers since 1951 with a variety of American staples from hearty breakfasts to sweet desserts to filling lunches and more. 

There’s no going wrong with Ritter’s french toast — or any of the breakfast choices. If you’re looking for a bite of dinner, their stuffed green peppers have a great review on the website. Ritter’s is cash only, so be sure to bring appropriate payment when you visit.

Great cafe stops

Margaux, East Liberty

With a neon sign on the front of their facade, Margaux is pretty hard to miss when walking by on Penn and Highland avenues, yet newbies don’t tend to stop in. A cafe by day and cocktail bar by night for those 21 and up, Margaux is a stylish addition to a great day of exploring the city.

Stop by Margaux on a slightly chilly Saturday morning when it’s cool enough to order a large, steaming mug of their chai — perfectly frothed with a sprinkle of cinnamon on top. Treat yourself with one of their flaky croissants and you have the start to a perfect day, fueled by warm spices and a chic atmosphere.

Bantha Tea Bar, Bloomfield

While Pittsburgh is filled with great coffee shops, the tea lovers can also find their home here with Bantha. This spot feels like a warm hug — with its clay-like interior and convenient location on Penn Avenue, Bantha is a great addition to any shopping day.

Bantha has a loose-leaf brew for every tea lover, whether you prefer green, black, iced or hot. Their herbal tea blends offer cures of some of the many “freshman flus” that plague the Pitt first-year community including their “Rest + Digest” and “Phlegm, No More!”. If tea isn’t for you, they also have coffee and lemonade among a number of other speciality drinks. 

Where to hang

West End Overlook, Elliott

If you have some time to kill or an accessible car, make the trip out to the West End Overlook Park. Nothing puts Pittsburgh in perspective like seeing the entire thing from afar, and it makes for great scenic pictures with your new friends.

The view is courtesy of Pittsburgh’s West End, far from the college chaos of Oakland. As the Ohio River chugs below, looking out onto one of the City’s famous yellow bridges can be tranquil and grounding. Take some friends up there for a great bonding moment or go by yourself to reflect on your college experience and the City.

Mr. Roboto Project, Bloomfield

It can be a struggle for first-year’s to find an 18+ space to hangout that doesn’t involve eating or RAs. Luckily, Mr. Roboto Project is a sober space and a great method of finding new music outside of Oakland.

Part art gallery and part show space, Roboto is the perfect way to discover local bands and get into the DIY scene. Their zine library hosts “several thousand” different issues and is accessible inside the show space, making it a great place to explore Pittsburgh’s creative past and future. Find your new favorite local band and play some retro video games on a Friday night.