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Best Contemporary American Restaurants in Waterfront

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18 restaurants available nearby

How are Featured results ranked

A photo of Ritual House restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(1873)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Downtown
Booked 55 times today
Ritual House in Downtown Pittsburgh is a true gem for those seeking exceptional American cuisine with a modern twist. Nestled in the historic Union Trust Building, this vibrant eatery offers an experience that delights the senses. Guests rave about the "delicious food and extraordinary service," with innovative dishes that reflect global influences while staying true to American roots. Whether it's brunch or dinner, every meal is "thoughtfully prepared and bursting with flavor." The atmosphere, described as "stunning and perfect for pictures," enhances the dining experience, making it ideal for celebrations. Ritual House is a must-visit for anyone craving authentic and creative American cuisine.
A photo of Spirits & Tales restaurant
4.3
Awesome(670)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Oakland
Booked 2 times today
Spirits & Tales, perched atop The Oaklander Hotel in Pittsburgh's vibrant Oakland neighborhood, offers an exceptional French American dining experience that beautifully marries tradition with innovation. The restaurant reimagines classic French all-day plates using inspired vegetables, locally sourced meats, and expertly prepared seafood, delivering a menu that is both authentic and inventive. Diners rave about the “phenomenal food” and “impeccable service” that make every visit memorable. With sweeping panoramic views that enhance its elegant atmosphere, Spirits & Tales is a hidden gem where “classic and contemporary converge.” Guests consistently praise the “reliably delicious food” and the “beautiful, inventive cocktails,” making it a must-visit destination.
A photo of Palm Palm restaurant
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Shadyside
Booked 11 times today
Palm Palm is a modern American restaurant inspired by the bright, fresh flavors of the coasts and elevated by a thoughtful cocktail program. Our philosophy is rooted in genuine hospitality — creating a warm, engaging atmosphere where every guest feels welcomed, cared for, and made to feel special
A photo of One by Spork restaurant
5.0
Exceptional(1059)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary american • East Liberty
Booked 4 times today
One by Spork in East Liberty, Pittsburgh, offers a truly exceptional Farm-to-table experience that has captivated diners with its commitment to quality and authenticity. The restaurant's seasonally driven chef’s tasting menu ensures that guests are treated to the freshest ingredients sourced directly from local farms. As one delighted diner remarked, "This was an event not just a meal," highlighting the meticulous care put into every dish. The culinary adventure is complemented by "spectacular drinks" and a service that goes "above and beyond" to accommodate diners' needs. One by Spork is a must-visit for anyone seeking an unforgettable Farm-to-table dining experience.
A photo of Morcilla restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(1939)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary american • Lawrenceville
Booked 22 times today
Morcilla in Lawrenceville, Pittsburgh, offers a delightful twist on Contemporary American cuisine with a Spanish influence that leaves diners raving. The restaurant's menu, filled with an array of pintxos and shareable plates, creates a "perfectly curated explosion of flavors" that has impressed many. Guests often comment on the "fantastic meal from start to finish," highlighting the exquisite balance of flavors and the impeccable service. Whether you're enjoying the intimate dining room or the lively bar area, Morcilla ensures a memorable dining experience. The consistent "amazing service and amazing food" make it a must-visit for those seeking unique and authentic Contemporary American cuisine.
A photo of The Cafe Carnegie restaurant
4.4
Awesome(438)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Oakland
Booked 1 time today
The Café Carnegie brings approachable cooking using responsibly-sourced ingredients to Pittsburgh’s favorite museums. The bright space features a comfortable full-service dining area with seasonal outside seating, and a walk-up espresso bar for a relaxing break on a museum visit.
A photo of Tupelo Honey - Pittsburgh restaurant
4.4
Awesome(1153)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Mt. Washington
Booked 35 times today
Tupelo Honey - Pittsburgh is a shining gem in American cuisine, offering a delightful revival of Southern food traditions rooted in the Carolina Mountains. This charming eatery in Mt. Washington, Pittsburgh, is celebrated for its fantastic brunches, lunches, and suppers that invite diners to linger over "phenomenal" food and "outstanding" service. As one guest raves, "The Whisky and Onion Smash burger is easily in my top 3 burgers I've ever had!" From the "amazing, authentic food" to the "very friendly & attentive service," Tupelo Honey consistently delivers an unforgettable dining experience. For anyone seeking genuine Southern hospitality and flavors, this restaurant is a must-visit!
A photo of Frick Park Tavern restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(701)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Point Breeze
Booked 22 times today
Frick Park Tavern, nestled in the heart of Point Breeze, Pittsburgh, is a standout destination for authentic American cuisine. With a commitment to "scratch food and beverages," this inviting neighborhood gem offers a warm, homely dining experience. Reviewers rave about the "exemplary mussels" and "the best cheeseburger" they've had in years, underscoring the quality and deliciousness of its menu. Guests appreciate the attentive and friendly service, with servers like Sarah and Lemon frequently mentioned for enhancing the dining experience. Frick Park Tavern is praised for its vibrant yet cozy atmosphere, making it a cherished spot for locals and visitors alike.
A photo of Cafe Momentum - Pittsburgh restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(169)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Downtown
Booked 1 time today
Café Momentum is more than just a restaurant—it’s a nonprofit culinary training program transforming the lives of justice-impacted youth. Our locally sourced, chef-driven menu provides the backdrop for hands-on learning, where young people rotate through every aspect of the restaurant, from front-of-house service to kitchen prep, all under the guidance of award- winning Chef Robert "RC" Carter. Don't miss our signature smoked fried chicken, served with mashed potatoes, collard greens, a southern buttermilk biscuit, and black pepper gravy. Plus, we’re BYOB! Enjoy your favorite beverage with dinner for a $5 per person corkage fee.
A photo of The Rebel Room restaurant
4.2
Awesome(65)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Downtown
Booked 2 times today
The Rebel Room in Downtown Pittsburgh offers a stellar showcase of Contemporary American cuisine, bursting with authenticity and quality. Diners rave about its "fabulous tomato bisque" and the "deliciously char-grilled salmon," highlighting the restaurant's knack for perfect seasoning and cooking. With an inviting atmosphere inspired by the city's trailblazing spirit, The Rebel Room combines creative American fare with an eclectic design. From the generous burrata appetizer to expertly crafted cocktails, every dish and drink promises an exceptional dining experience. Guests are greeted warmly and enjoy attentive service, ensuring The Rebel Room remains a favorite for both locals and visitors alike.
‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • KimberlyVIP
    Raleigh / Durham / Chapel Hill •47 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    A beautiful location with fantastic cocktails and food and wonderful service. Highly recommend!
    More info
    Ritual HousePrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Downtown
    4.7
  • Robert
    Greater Boston •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    The food and service were both amazing and exceeded all expectations. I will be going back very soon.
    More info
    MorcillaPrice: Very Expensive• Spanish• Lawrenceville
    4.9
  • AaronVIP
    Pittsburgh / Western PA •2 reviews
    4.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    It was ok. The drinks were very good. I tasted a few of our tables dishes. I thought some was over seasoned (one with too much garlic (and I am no garlic hater)) some under seasoned and all generally not up to par at the price charged. Scallops were over cooked. Steak was under cooked (but fixed perfectly upon sending back so kudos to the kitchen for that). It seemed like maybe they were trying to make up for quality by giving larger quantity so if you are looking for large dishes you may be pleased. Had breakfast here the next day. Coffee was very nice. The spinach and artichoke scramble read like it'd be great but the artichokes were very acidic which threw off the whole dish - disappointing at $20. Great views of Oakland and staff was very attentive. It's nice place to eat a meal; not a destination for fine dining.
    More info
    Spirits & TalesPrice: Expensive• Contemporary French / American• Oakland
    4.3
  • AdamVIP
    Pittsburgh / Western PA •153 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 6 days ago
    What great evening. Beautiful place, great service and the dinner was one of if not the most beautifully presented and delicious vegetarian meals. Each course a work of art. The courses were diverse, but delicious. You knew it was vegetables, but the flavors were amazing. The N/A accompaniments were good, but the wine pairings were perfect. Definitely go that route. We’ll be back.
    More info
    One by SporkPrice: Very Expensive• Contemporary American• East Liberty
    5
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