Showing posts with label food. Show all posts
Showing posts with label food. Show all posts

Friday, May 9, 2025

Vietnam 9 Vietnam now open in Oakland.


New Vietnamese restaurant Vietnam 9 Vietnam has recently opened in Oakland. Signage went up for the new place in February at 338 S. Bouquet St. (map), in what was most recently Beta Bytes. Vietnam 9 Vietnam, also stylized Vietnam Vietnam 9, has online ordering set up, and its menu features an assortment of pho, banh mi, bun bo hue, com dia, bun, chao, heo kho, and bo kho.

Kpot now coming to Pittsburgh . . . never.


The "coming soon" sign has come down from the former Eat n' Park in Squirrel Hill, where the highly-anticipated Kpot was supposed to open a while ago. It has been replaced by a For Lease sign. I actually had a post set to publish on May 28 to mark the second anniversary of "coming soon" signage with absolutely no updates or movement, so I've needed to modify that now.

While driving to work on May 28, 2023 I passed by workers putting up a "Kpot Coming Soon" sign on the old Eat n' Park in Squirrel Hill. (You may have seen the photo when other local news sites lifted it without attribution.) Over the last two years, however, almost no activity has taken place in the large Murray Avenue restaurant space, which led most people to doubt whether Kpot would ever open at all.

The "Pittsburg" location was long listed as "coming soon" on the website as well, but all my inquiries to Kpot always received the same response:
At this time we do not have a definitive date as to when this location will be open. All new location openings will be announced on our FB and IG, stay tuned!

In 2023 and 2024, a number of all-you-can-eat Hot Pot and Korean BBQ places were announced with great fanfare: besides Kpot there was Hong Hot Pot & BBQ on McKnight Road, Korean BBQ in Oakland, Top Pot Hotpot & Korean BBQ on the South Side, Running Dish at the Waterfront, and Shabu Shabu Hot Pot and Grill in McCandless and Robinson, plus a couple others announced this year. Hong Hot Pot & BBQ is the only one to open so far, while the others remain in various stages of (in)completion, months and sometimes years after initial target opening dates. To editorialize for a moment, I have to wonder if the growing costs of construction and ingredients---which will only continue to climb under Trump---paired with adminsitrative delays have made owners second guess the feasibility of these restaurant concepts. While Korean BBQ is of course popular throughout the US, one of the appeals to these places in Korea is how cheap and ubiquitous they are; families may bristle at spending $150-$200 for a night out, particularly as we enter an economic recession or depression.

Thursday, May 8, 2025

HK Dim Sum holds Grand Opening in Oakland today, May 8.


HK Dim Sum, also stylized Hong Kong Dim Sum, has officially grand opened today in North Oakland. It soft opened back on April 15 and is located at 4520 Centre Ave. in North Oakland's One on Centre complex (map). The menu features a variety of dumpling, dim sum, and dessert dishes in addition to more commonly-found rice and noodle entrees, and the space features a large dining room plus three private rooms for events. Announced back in September 2023, HK Dim Sum was aiming to help fill in one of the remaining gaps in Pittsburgh's Asian food scene. Its hours are currently 11:00 am to 10:00 pm.

Tuesday, May 6, 2025

Taste of Asia Asian Food Festival, May 11 at Heinz History Center.


The third annual Taste of Asia Asian Food Festival will take place on May 11 at the Heinz History Center. The three-hour festival will feature food from numerous restaurants plus cultural performances and other attractions. 

Experience Asian culture and flavors at the Taste of Asia program.

Join the History Center on a cultural and culinary journey to celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month at Taste of Asia.

Presented in partnership with the Japan-America Society of Pennsylvania and the Asian American Chamber of Commerce of Pittsburgh, the program will highlight Asian American contributions of the past and present in Pittsburgh.

Indulge in delicious bites from an assortment of local Asian restaurants, explore the history of Pittsburgh’s Asian American community with the Detre Library & Archives, and watch live performances to learn about cultural celebrations.

Engage with local chefs and expand your palette by sampling food from participating restaurants, including:

  • Chengdu Gourmet 2
  • Sushi Fuku
  • Senyai Thai Kitchen
  • 1:11 Juice Bar
  • Bombay to Burgh
  • Charm Thai Pittsburgh
  • Grapow
  • Hungry Panda
  • Kung Fu Chicken
  • Mango Mango
  • Modern Filipino Cuisine
  • Nan Xiang Dumpling
  • Nepali Community of Greater Pittsburgh
  • Sumi’s Cakery
  • Sushi Too
  • WeiLai Dim Sum
  • Yotea Yoka Kitchen

Restaurant vendors will also have takeaway food available to purchase.

Don’t miss the chance to discover and celebrate the incredible diversity of Asian food culture in Pittsburgh!

The event runs from 12:00 to 3:00 pm, and the Heinz History Center is located at 1212 Smallman St. in the Strip District (map).

Top Pot Hotpot & Korean BBQ prepares to open soon in South Side.


Top Pot Hotpot & Korean BBQ is preparing to open soon in the Southside Works, according to management. Top Pot is a chain with nine locations currently open---three in Pennsylvania, two in Ohio, and one each in Florida, Maryland, New Jersey, and Utah---and four under development, including this Pittsburgh spot first announced in December 2023.
Top Pot & K BBQ is an AYCE restaurant franchise that offers a unique and satisfying dining experience with a combination of hot pot and Korean BBQ. The menu features a wide range of ingredients, spices, and sauces to cater to different tastes, with options for meat, seafood, vegetables, and more. Customers can enjoy cooking their food at the table with a simmering pot of soup stock or grilling meat on the table with personalized dipping sauces. The restaurant also offers a well-rounded meal with a lot of delicious small side dishes, which provide a diverse array of flavors and textures. These side dishes, along with the option of both hot pot and Korean BBQ, make for a unique and satisfying dining experience.

In addition to the delicious food, Top Pot BBQ is committed to providing quality service at affordable prices. This means that customers can expect to receive not just a great meal, but also attentive service and a welcoming atmosphere. And with the restaurant's focus on using fresh ingredients, customers can be assured that they are eating high-quality food that is both delicious and nourishing.

For those looking for a unique and satisfying dining experience, Top Pot BBQ is the perfect choice. With its combination of hot pot and Korean BBQ, and commitment to quality, service, and affordability, it's sure to leave a lasting impression on all who visit and we have something for everyone regardless of your preferences.
It will open at 2829 East Carson St. (map), and will be one of three new-ish Asian chains, along with Kura Sushi and Nan Xiang Xiao Long Bao, helping to make Southside Works a dining destination for lovers of Asian food.

Saturday, May 3, 2025

10th Pittsburgh Chinese Culture Festival (第十届匹兹堡中华文化节), September 13.


Advance notice for the 10th Pittsburgh Chinese Culture Festival, scheduled for Mellon Park on September 13. Presented by the Pittsburgh Chinese Cultural Center, the annual event features food, cultural performances, local vendors, and more.

Monday, April 28, 2025

Togyu Asian Barbecue and Bar in Cranberry eyes June opening.


Togyu Asian Barbecue and Bar, coming soon to the Cranberry Mall spot formerly occupied by Lumberjaxes Axe Throwing (map), is aiming for a June opening. Ownership has recently opened an online survey to help inform the Togyu loyalty program.

Togyu is Pittsburgh’s newest destination for premium Korean and Japanese barbecue.

We’re opening this June, and as we prepare to launch, we’re building a loyalty program inspired by the spirit of community, ritual, and discovery — and we want your input.  

Share your thoughts below to help us create rewards, challenges, and experiences that you’ll actually be excited about.

Your feedback will directly influence the Togyu Scroll and the Togyu Warrior journey🔥(Only takes 5 minutes!)

Bonus: One lucky respondent will win a free appetizer and early access invite during our opening month!

Friday, April 25, 2025

8 Star Cuisine opening May 1 in Gibsonia, with Japanese, Chinese, sushi, and buffet menu options.


8 Star Cuisine is planning to open soon in Gibsonia's Richland Mall on Route 8 (map). The menu includes Japanese, Chinese, and Asian staples, in addition to sushi, sashimi, and rolls. It also offers an all-you-can-eat sushi and seafood buffet. Owners are aiming for a soft open on April 28 and a Grand Opening on May 1.

Wednesday, April 23, 2025

New sushi restaurant Sushi I delays soft opening until April 28.

Sushi I, a new sushi place coming soon to downtown Pittsburgh from the Hong Kong Dim Sum, has pushed its soft opening from April 25 to April 28. It will be located at 245 4th Ave., a short distance from Market Square in the former Harris Grill (map).

Cranberry's Kyuramen and TBaar soft opened on April 22.


Kyuramen, the national ramen chain, announced its Grand Opening set for April 25, but quickly followed with a soft opening announcement yesterday, April 22.
🚨 Cranberry Township, we’re officially soft opening now! 🚨
KYURAMEN is ready to serve you with delicious Japanese ramen, fluffy Omurice, mouthwatering appetizers, refreshing drinks, and sweet desserts! 🍜✨
Come visit us at our cozy, welcoming space—perfect for hangouts, celebrations, or a solo treat! ❤️
We're open and excited to welcome you! Stay tuned for more updates as we get ready for our grand opening! 🎉

Kyuramen, also stylized as KYURAMEN and Kyu Ramen, opened its first Pittsburgh location in East Liberty in December. Both spots are also paired with TBaar, a chain of bubble tea places. The Cranberry location was first announced in September 2024, and is located at 20430 Route 19, Suite 105, in the "Streets of Cranberry" development, between Condado Tacos and Rally House (map).

Kyuramen is one of several large national and international Asian chains to come to Pittsburgh in recent years---in addition to Paris Baguette, Tous Les Jours, Fresh International Market, Yi Fang, Kura Revolving Sushi, among many others---and though some may look askance at chains, it also represents the growth of Pittsburgh's food landscape that companies that ignored Pittsburgh for the last decade or two are recognizing its appetites.

Tuesday, April 22, 2025

Cranberry's Kyuramen and TBaar to open April 25.


Kyuramen will open its second Pittsburgh-area restaurant later this week when the Cranberry location holds its Grand Opening on April 25.
The wait is finally over!!
Kyuramen Grand Opening in Cranberry Twp, PA, is on April 25th! Come experience our modern interior, innovative ramen flavors, fluffy omurice, and much more🍜🍳✨Bring your friends and family to savor delicious food and create unforgettable memories together!🥢❤️

Kyuramen, a national chain of ramen restaurants also stylized as KYURAMEN and Kyu Ramen, opened its first Pittsburgh location in East Liberty in December. Both spots are also paired with TBaar, a chain of bubble tea places. The Cranberry location was first announced in September 2024, and is located at 20430 Route 19, Suite 105, in the "Streets of Cranberry" development, between Condado Tacos and Rally House (map).

Kyuramen is one of several large national and international Asian chains to come to Pittsburgh in recent years---in addition to Paris Baguette, Tous Les Jours, Fresh International Market, Yi Fang, Kura Revolving Sushi, among many others---and though some may look askance at chains, it also represents the growth of Pittsburgh's food landscape that companies that ignored Pittsburgh for the last decade or two are recognizing its appetites.

Friday, April 18, 2025

New sushi restaurant Sushi I aims to open downtown on April 25.


Sushi I, a new sushi place coming soon to downtown Pittsburgh from the Hong Kong Dim Sum, aims to open on April 25 according to the ownership team. It will be located at 245 4th Ave., a short distance from Market Square in the former Harris Grill (map). The development team sent a few photos earlier this month:

Sunday, April 13, 2025

Hong Kong Dim Sum in Oakland eyes April 15 soft opening.


Hong Kong Dim Sum management confirms it is working on some finishing touches and aiming for an April 15 soft opening. It will be located at 4520 Centre Ave. in North Oakland's One on Centre complex (map). The space features a large dining room plus three private rooms for events. Announced back in September 2023, Hong Kong Dim Sum was to help fill in one of the remaining gaps in Pittsburgh's Asian food scene, though dim sum offerings have expanded around town since then.

The management team shared a few additional photos of dishes and sauces its working on.

Monday, April 7, 2025

Gold Ladle in Greenfield temporarily closed due to fire.


A printed sign recently went up at Gold Ladle (金汤勺·蜀道香) in Greenfield to announce its temporary closure.
To our valued customers:

We regret to inform you that Gold Ladle will be temporarily closed for renovations due to a recent fire incident at our location. Thankfully, no one was hurt, but the damage requires immediate attention to ensure the safety and comfort of our staff and guests.

Our team is already hard at work to restore and improve the space, and we plan to reopen as soon as we can.

We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience this may cause and deeply appreciate your patience, support, and understanding during this time. We can't wait to welcome you back with a refreshed space and the same delicious food you love.

Stay tuned for updates and thank you for being part of the Gold Ladle family.

Warm regards,
The Gold Ladle Team
Gold Ladle is located at 4219 Murray Ave. in Greenfield (map), across from the Giant Eagle. It opened in October after a few months of Wai Wai, which took over that spot after China Star was shut down in February 2024 due to repeated health violations.

Friday, April 4, 2025

Sushi I coming soon to downtown Pittsburgh, from team behind forthcoming Hong Kong Dim Sum.


Work is nearly complete on Sushi I, a new sushi place coming soon to downtown Pittsburgh from the Hong Kong Dim Sum. It will be located at 245 4th Ave., a short distance from Market Square in the former Harris Grill (map). Sushi I anticipates an opening date roughly around April 18 through 23, after finishing touches to hiring and inventory. The development team sends a few photos:

Wednesday, April 2, 2025

New photos from Hong Kong Dim Sum, set to open in Oakland in the next two weeks.


The development team shares new photos from inside Hong Kong Dim Sum, aiming to open in the next two weeks in Oakland.


It will be located at 4520 Centre Ave. in North Oakland's One on Centre complex (map). The space features a large dining room plus three private rooms for events. Announced back in September 2023, Hong Kong Dim Sum was to help fill in one of the remaining gaps in Pittsburgh's Asian food scene, though dim sum offerings have expanded around town since then.

HK Dim Sum is hiring ahead of its planned opening, and is recruiting server/waitstaff, host, dishwasher, busser, and line/prep cook positions. Those interested may text 917-618-7307 or 718-415-0546 to apply.

Work continues on Pittsburgh's Fresh International Market past latest target opening date.

Photo taken the morning of April 2.

Work continues on the eagerly-awaited Fresh International Market coming soon to Pittsburgh in Point Breeze's Rockwell Park development. The US-based chain of Asian grocery stores was first announced for Pittsburgh in March 2023, and the 23,000 square foot store would be among the largest Asian groceries in the region. It was initially aiming for a Summer 2024 opening, then announced a February 2025 opening, then April 1. From a February 2025 Pittsburgh Magazine article:
Known for its unique selection of international ingredients and authentic Asian cuisine, Fresh International Market imports products from more than 28 countries. This will be the 10th location, with stores located in Illinois, Nebraska, Texas, Michigan, Indiana, North Carolina and Florida. The first store was founded in Lansing, Michigan in 2011 by Bowen Kou; the company is now headquartered in Raleigh, North Carolina.

Also opening at Rockwell is the second location of Ineffable CaPhe, a Lawrenceville coffee shop offering a variety of Asian items such as bubble tea, banh mi sandwiches and rice bowls, Al Lardo, Rockwell Park’s principal, said in an interview. It will operate out of the grocery store rather than being a separate tenant at Rockwell.

He noted his family’s roots are in Wilkinsburg, where his wife’s family had a business for 80 years and his father owned rental properties. He told the Business Times that he looks forward to the new opportunity that the store will bring to residents in Wilkinsburg as well as Homewood to be able to buy healthy and fresh foods that are affordably priced.

“The location [of the Fresh International Market] is especially good because of the busway,” Lardo said in an interview. which is just a half-mile walk from Rockwell Park. “There’s a lot of people who don’t have cars in Wilkinsburg.”
The store will open at 7511 Thomas Blvd. (map), located roughly a block from the East End Food Co-op and Construction Junction. While this will be the region's first Fresh International Market, though the chain was loosely linked to Pittsburgh in 2021 as a finalist for the former Hill District Shop n' Save location that was later occupied, and vacated, by Salem's Market. Its proposal was admittedly the weakest of the four for the site, and was reportedly submitted after the deadline, which were among two of the reasons it was not selected to move into Uptown.

Tuesday, April 1, 2025

Dang Poke & Boba Tea soft opens in Cranberry.

Dang Poke & Boba Tea soft opened yesterday, March 31, in Cranberry. Signage went up for the new spot a few weeks ago at 20018 US-19 Suite 500, in the Oak Tree Plaza next to Jimmy John's (map).

"Proudly family owned and operated since 2025," it has eight varieties of poke bowls, a build-your-own-bowl menu, a selection of Asian appetizers---spring rolls, tempura, edamame, among others---and an assortment of drinks and bubble teas: options generally missing from the food scene north of the city.

Dang Poke & Boba Tea is open 11:00 am to 8:00 pm Monday through Saturday, and 11:00 am to 7:00 pm on Sunday.

Wednesday, March 26, 2025

Taste of Asia Asian Food Festival, May 11 at Heinz History Center.


The third annual Taste of Asia Asian Food Festival will take place on May 11 at the Heinz History Center. The three-hour festival will feature food from 15 restaurants plus cultural performances and other attractions. The restaurant and vendor line-up includes, so far: Bombay & Burgh, Chengdu Gourmet, Hungry Panda, HK Dim Sum, Kung Fu Chicken 2, Nan Xiang Soup Dumplings, Pho Van, Szechuan Spice House, Sushi Fuku, Tous les Jours, Yujian Bao, and 1:11 Juice Bar, with a few others set to be announced soon.

The event runs from 12:00 to 3:00 pm, and the Heinz History Center is located at 1212 Smallman St. in the Strip District (map).

Thursday, March 20, 2025

Dang Poke & Boba Tea opening in Cranberry in April.

via its Facebook page

Dang Poke & Boba Tea will be opening soon in Cranberry. "Proudly family owned and operated since 2025," Dang Poke & Boba Tea will have eight varieties of poke bowls, a build-your-own-bowl menu, a selection of Asian appetizers---spring rolls, tempura, edamame, among others---and an assortment of drinks and bubble teas. It is located at 20018 US-19 Suite 500, in the Oak Tree Plaza next to Jimmy John's (map).

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