Pittsburgh Food Critic Shares Top Spots to Eat During NFL Draft

Local eateries gear up to feed hungry fans flocking to the Steel City for the big event.

Apr. 16, 2026 at 11:22pm

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A dynamic, colorful painting in the style of LeRoy Neiman, featuring bold brushstrokes and neon hues that capture the lively energy of a bustling Pittsburgh restaurant during the NFL Draft.Pittsburgh's food scene comes alive as local restaurants welcome hungry NFL Draft fans with their signature dishes and energetic atmosphere.Today in Pittsburgh

As the NFL Draft descends on Pittsburgh next week, local food critic Hal B. Klein has compiled a list of 30 top-recommended restaurants and cafes for fans to check out. Among the highlights are Wise County Biscuits, known for its fried chicken biscuits and desserts, as well as Badamo's Pizza and other spots offering a taste of the city's vibrant food scene.

Why it matters

The NFL Draft is a major event that brings thousands of visitors to the host city, providing a significant boost to local businesses and restaurants. Pittsburgh's food scene is a point of pride for the city, and these recommendations give fans a chance to experience the city's culinary diversity and community-driven establishments.

The details

Klein's list includes a mix of longtime local favorites and newer additions to the Pittsburgh dining landscape, all within easy reach of the draft venue. Wise County Biscuits, for example, is excited to welcome new customers and showcase its popular fried chicken biscuits and homemade desserts. Other spots like Badamo's Pizza, Alberta's, The Warren, and Con Alma are also highlighted for their proximity and unique offerings.

  • The NFL Draft will take place in Pittsburgh next week.
  • Wise County Biscuits will be open during its regular hours of 7:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. during the draft.

The players

Hal B. Klein

A food critic for the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette who compiled a list of 30 recommended restaurants and cafes for fans to check out during the NFL Draft.

Jenny Hamilton

A representative from Wise County Biscuits Café, one of the restaurants featured on Klein's list.

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What they’re saying

“It's super flattering and we're super excited to meet new people and show everyone what we are and show everyone the neighborhood.”

— Jenny Hamilton, Representative, Wise County Biscuits Café

“We're excited, we're ready, we're good to go, got some extra staff, we figured it's going to be similar to a Steelers game. So it'll be nice to show everybody from near and far away what we offer.”

— Jenny Hamilton, Representative, Wise County Biscuits Café

What’s next

Fans attending the NFL Draft in Pittsburgh next week can check out the list of recommended restaurants and cafes to find the best local dining options during their visit.

The takeaway

Pittsburgh's vibrant food scene is ready to welcome NFL Draft attendees with a diverse array of community-driven, locally owned restaurants and cafes that showcase the city's culinary pride and hospitality.