If there’s one thing that almost every Sunday morning consists of (besides the Sunday Scaries), it’s brunch. Whether you’re just really craving a Bloody Mary or you literally need bacon to absorb your headache-induced hangover, brunch is always a good idea. Luckily, I’ve spent the past almost four years brunching my way around Pittsburgh with and without hangovers, so I think I can call myself (and my hungry alter ego) a brunch expert, aka a Brexpert (I just made that up). So get yourself a glass of water, some Advil, and pick one of the following God-gifted and @hungrygrl_bigcity approved brunch spots that also serves up yummy hangover cures.
Pamela’s Diner (more commonly referred to as Pam’s)
I’m going to start with an oldie but a goodie. If you don’t know about their Lyonnaise Potatoes and/or have never experienced them then you should probably do that ASAP. They have two locations: one conveniently on Forbes on campus and one on Walnut Street in Shady Side.
Primanti Bros
Though this might seem like a little odd of a choice, you can’t judge this pick until you’ve been blessed with the bacon, egg, and cheese sandwich. Pile on the ketchup and hot sauce and thank me later. There are locations all around Pittsburgh, including the OG Primanti’s in Market Square.
Diamond Market Bar & Grill
If you are into Bloody Mary’s the size of your head, this is a spot you must check out. They make a “Bloody Yetti,” which is 32 ounces of Bloody Mary goodness and topped with in-house smoked jerky that is to-die for. Also be sure to try some of their classics, such as their unique twist on a Pittsburgh classic, pirogies. Diamond Market is located in Market Square and features outside seating when it’s nice out, so you can experience brunch with a view.
The Yard
What’s better than a mac and cheese grilled cheese? A mac and cheese grilled cheese accompanied by bottomless mimosas or bottomless bloody marys. Plus, they even have a special brunch menu equipped with all kinds of ~funky~ breakfast-inspired grilled cheeses. They have easily accessible locations in Shady Side and Market Square.
Coca Cafe
This is by far one of my go-to brunch spots in Pittsburgh. Located on Butler Street in Lawrenceville, Coca Cafe is serving up all of your favorites with local ingredients, such as an avocado omelette with brown sugar bacon and fried eggplant eggs benedict with green tomatoes. Plus, their coffee is by far some of the best I’ve ever had, especially their iced vanilla latte.
The Porch
The Porch is serving up a very underrated brunch, which is constantly changing based on what local ingredients are available. They have a quality bloody mary and have blessed their menu with a brunch burger and homemade cinnamon buns. Licking the icing off of the skillet is encouraged. Plus, it’s located right on campus in Schenley Plaza, so it’s an easy walk.
Local Kitchen + Bar
Local is known for their rooftop seating and bloody mary bar. Their menu offers a wide variety so everyone can get exactly what they want. Plus, they’re located on East Carson in South Side, so it’s only a short bus ride away.