Dish Osteria & Bar
Dish Osteria & Bar
By: Lily Cope
Since 2000, Dish Osteria & Bar has been a cornerstone of Pittsburgh’s Southside dining scene. Housed in a historic bar from 1885, Dish combines old-world charm with contemporary Sicilian flavors, thanks to Chef-Owner Michele Savoia. Born in Brooklyn and raised in Sicily, Savoia brings his rich culinary heritage and a deep passion for food to this beloved restaurant.
The name “Dish” was suggested by Savoia’s wife, reflecting its many meanings in English while also staying true to its roots as a classic Osteria. Originally envisioned as a neighborhood bar with a small menu, Dish evolved into a cozy, sophisticated dining destination. Its minimalist décor, candlelit ambiance, and handcrafted copper bar create a vibe inspired by the hidden gems of New York City, filling a void in Pittsburgh’s restaurant landscape.
A Seafood Lover’s Paradise
Seafood is the heart of Dish’s menu, reflecting Savoia’s southern Italian and Mediterranean influences. He sources the freshest ingredients, including French anchovies, cuttlefish, and razor clams, often adding seasonal variety.
Signature dishes include:
• Grigliata Mista di Pesce: A daily selection of grilled fish and shellfish, such as swordfish, scallops, and shrimp, served with saffron risotto and Sicilian eggplant caponata.
• Cozze al Vapore: Bangs Island mussels from Maine steamed in white wine, garlic, and parsley, accompanied by grilled ciabatta.
• Gamberi in Padella: Wild-caught Texas shrimp sautéed with olive oil, garlic, cherry tomatoes, and parsley.
• Spaghetti ai Frutti di Mare: A seafood lover’s dream, featuring spaghetti tossed with clams, scallops, shrimp, and calamari, sautéed in white wine, garlic, and extra virgin olive oil.
For fans of Sicilian tradition, Dish also serves grilled sardines and Maccu, a rustic fava bean soup with fennel, onion, and garlic.
Simple Philosophy, Exceptional Quality
Savoia’s culinary philosophy is simple: focus on great ingredients and let their natural flavors shine. He uses high-quality extra virgin olive oils, including Partanna, Olio Verde, and Frantoia, all imported from Sicily.
Warm Hospitality and Timeless Appeal
Dish is known not only for its food but also for its exceptional service. Guests are welcomed like family, and the staff’s ability to balance attentiveness with discretion keeps diners coming back. The restaurant’s low staff turnover ensures consistency and familiarity.
Dish serves dinner five nights a week, staying open until 10:30 p.m., offering a rare late-night option in the post-COVID dining landscape. For Valentine’s Day and other special occasions, Savoia crafts unique dishes like pasta in saffron cream sauce with jumbo lump crabmeat or bucatini with lobster and cherry tomatoes.
Reservations are highly recommended and can be made up to 30 days in advance. Whether savoring a classic Sicilian dish or indulging in seasonal seafood, every visit to Dish Osteria & Bar is a celebration of tradition, flavor, and hospitality.
