Is the strain of school, assignments, and student-debt getting to you? Has the recent politically tumultuous week got you stressed out? Looking for a new place to eat and endure a carb-induced coma? Do you love grilled cheese sandwiches?!
Well do I have a place for you!
The Yard – An American Gastropub may just be what you’re missing in life.
I moved to Pittsburgh almost 6 months ago, and since then one of my favorite past times is to explore all the cool restaurants of the city. I first heard of The Yard when I met my next-door neighbor, who actually happens to be a chef there. From what he told me, the food sounded so good, I had to go.
Let me tell you, I was not disappointed.
First of all, the atmosphere at the restaurant is fun. Depending on the day and time you go, you can find avid sports fans crowded around the bar and cheering for their favorite teams. You can find loads of college students hanging out in groups, laughing, and having a good time. If you’re not into big crowds, the restaurant is also a chill hang out spot, any time after or before the prime dinner rush.
OK and now to the good stuff… the food!
The Yard has every possible variation to the original grill cheese sandwich you could imagine, all given punny names like: The Blarney Stoner, The Big Che-Bowski, Wang Chung Tonight, Its Always Sunny in Philadelphia, and Bluffy the Mac Attack Slayer. I love the names and I always try to get a different one when I go.
The last time I was there I had the Pierogis N’At, and let me tell you I almost couldn’t hold the whole sandwich in my hand. It was SO GOOD! Along with cheddar and gouda cheese, as the name says, it also had pierogis, slices of kielbasa, caramelized onions, and sauerkraut.
Mmmmm… I’m slightly lactose intolerant and I don’t care; gimme all the cheese!
All of the sandwiches are served with a cup of tomato soup and your choice of house chips, salad, French fries, or sweet potato fries. They are also categorized between types of meat which include: chicken, beef, turkey, seafood, and pork. There is also a couple of vegetarian options!
Oh! How could I forget to mention, the appetizers are the bomb diggity—I either get the wings or the Mac Attack Balls, which are fried mac ’n’ cheese ball heaven.
Finally, for those of you who are of legal drinking age, The Yard has a huge selection of craft beers as well as cocktails.
Honestly, could you ask for more? Good sandwiches and beer can really make you feel better after a long, hard day.
If you have the time, I definitely recommend going. The restaurant has two locations: one in Shadyside the other in downtown Market Square. I’ve been to both, and I love both of them.
From a fellow foodie to you, I can assure you won’t be disappointed.