TP
The Porch
Campus-side dining with indoor-outdoor vibes and a varied American menu.
4.8
american-traditional
$$
Campus-side dining with indoor-outdoor vibes and a varied American menu.
Located at 221 Schenley Dr on the University of Pittsburgh campus, The Porch offers modern American fare with a varied menu that includes pizza and brunch options. Guests praise the indoor and outdoor seating overlooking a bright green field, a clean, welcoming space, and friendly, attentive service. The lively spot is noted for fair pricing and a versatile dining experience for individuals or groups.
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Enjoy a varied menu with modern American dishes, including steaks, burgers, and seasonal specials in a clean, friendly setting.
Savor fabulous brunch options with seasonal flavors, perfect for weekend gatherings, featuring items like salmon wraps and Bloody Mary pitchers.
Delight in delicious, handcrafted pizzas, praised as some of the best in Oakland, ideal for sharing or a casual meal.
Relax with craft drinks, including beer, wine, and cocktails, in a bar atmosphere that complements the dining experience.
Host gatherings of up to 20 people with attentive service, private tables, and a buzzing yet conversational environment.
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Overall rating
Lloyd Baker
Decent food for a good price. The cashier seemed put out while incorrectly charging us for an item we decided against. Overall, a good college campus locale.
Juju
Alexandra Pickle
Everyone we came across in Pittsburgh recommended this restaurant, but the foos was honestly less than mediocre. We ordered a chicken dish and a burger dish and we couldn’t finish either one of them. They were just not good.
Alex Revelo
If you're hunting for a standout burger in Pittsburgh that goes beyond the standard pub fare, make a beeline for **The Porch** and order the **Porch Burger** (sometimes highlighted as the Porch Truffle Burger on the menu). This isn't just another beef patty on a bun—it's a juicy, thoughtfully crafted indulgence that highlights why The Porch has built such a loyal following in Schenley Plaza. The star is the high-quality **American Wagyu beef** (or prime Angus in some descriptions), ground in-house for that perfect balance of richness and tenderness. Cooked to a flawless medium-rare, it delivers a deeply flavorful, succulent bite that stays moist without feeling greasy. The toppings elevate it into something special: sweet-savory **bacon marmalade**, soft **caramelized onions**, and a luxurious **truffle aioli** that adds an earthy, aromatic depth without overpowering the meat. Fresh lettuce, tomato, and red onion on a soft **brioche bun** complete the package, with a crisp pickle spear on the side for that classic contrast. I paired mine with the **crispy taters** (highly recommended over basic fries), which come with a house-made **curried ketchup** that brings a subtle, addictive spice. The combination is addictive—the burger's richness plays beautifully against the potatoes' crunch and the ketchup's gentle heat. What sets The Porch Burger apart is the attention to quality ingredients and scratch-made elements. You can taste the care: nothing feels mass-produced, and the portions are generous without being ridiculous. At around $19–23 (depending on location and any add-ons like extra cheese), it's priced like a premium burger but delivers value through flavor and satisfaction. It's hearty enough for a full meal, especially if you're fueling up before or after exploring nearby attractions like the Carnegie museums or Pitt campus. The setting enhances the experience too—bright, airy indoor seating with plenty of natural light, or outdoor tables in Schenley Plaza when the weather cooperates. Service is typically friendly and efficient, even during busy times. If I had one minor nitpick from various visits and reports, it's that occasional menu tweaks or substitutions (like truffle vs. other sauces) can happen in a busy kitchen, but when it hits as described, this burger is easily one of the better ones in the city. It's not overly fussy or gimmicky—just elevated American comfort food done right. **Verdict:** Highly recommended. Whether you're a local, a student, or just passing through Pittsburgh, the Porch Burger is a must-try. Pair it with a craft beer or one of their refreshing cocktails, and you've got a winning lunch or casual dinner. I'll definitely be back for another round. 9/10 — docked only because perfection is rare, but this comes impressively close.
Terence Coughlin
Everything we ordered was great ! Really there were no dishes we didn't have about.
Paul Cook
We visited for the first time. Hailey's service was excellent. Very friendly and attentive. She made fantastic food recommendations. Can't wait for a return visit.
