Introduction
Squirrel Hill, a vibrant Pittsburgh neighborhood known for its diversity and thriving food scene, boasts a rich tapestry of culinary experiences. Among the many tempting options, Chinese food holds a special place. From steaming bowls of noodles to expertly crafted dumplings and fiery Sichuan dishes, the selection can be overwhelming. So, where do you start? Which restaurants truly stand out? This guide, crafted by a Squirrel Hill local, will navigate you through the best Chinese food options the neighborhood has to offer, catering to a variety of tastes and preferences. We’ve considered quality of ingredients, authenticity, flavor profiles, service, and overall value in our search for the very best. Prepare your taste buds for an adventure!
Sichuan Gourmet: A Fiery Culinary Journey
Nestled on Forbes Avenue, Sichuan Gourmet is a Squirrel Hill institution for those seeking authentic Sichuan cuisine. This isn’t your typical Americanized Chinese takeout; Sichuan Gourmet offers a deep dive into the bold and complex flavors of the Sichuan province. The ambiance is casual and bustling, often filled with a lively mix of students, families, and food enthusiasts, creating a welcoming and energetic atmosphere.
What truly sets Sichuan Gourmet apart is its unwavering commitment to using high-quality ingredients and traditional techniques. Their chefs masterfully balance the signature Sichuan flavors of numbing peppercorns, fiery chilies, and savory fermented bean paste, resulting in dishes that are both intensely flavorful and surprisingly nuanced.
If you’re a first-timer, the Dan Dan Noodles are an absolute must-try. The springy noodles are coated in a rich and spicy sauce made from sesame paste, chili oil, and ground pork, creating a symphony of textures and tastes that will leave you wanting more. The Mapo Tofu is another standout dish. Silken tofu is simmered in a vibrant and aromatic sauce with fermented black beans, ground pork, and, of course, plenty of Sichuan peppercorns. It’s a dish that’s both comforting and exhilarating. For something a little different, explore their wide variety of cold dishes like the sliced beef and ox tongue in chili sauce.
Sichuan Gourmet earns its spot as one of the best Chinese food options in Squirrel Hill because of its dedication to authenticity. The restaurant imports many of its key ingredients directly from China, ensuring that each dish captures the true essence of Sichuan cuisine. The skillful chefs, combined with a commitment to quality, makes this restaurant a must visit.
Address: 5718 Forbes Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15217
Everyday Noodles: Hand-Pulled Perfection
For a truly unique and mesmerizing dining experience, head to Everyday Noodles on Murray Avenue. This unassuming restaurant is renowned for its incredibly skilled noodle makers, who can be seen through the glass window at the front, deftly pulling and shaping dough into perfect strands of noodles. The focus here is on Northern Chinese cuisine, with a particular emphasis on noodles and dumplings.
The hand-pulled noodles are the star of the show at Everyday Noodles. The texture is unlike anything you’ve ever experienced – perfectly chewy, delightfully springy, and able to hold onto sauce with remarkable tenacity. The restaurant offers a variety of noodle dishes, from hearty beef noodle soup to stir-fried noodles with vegetables and protein.
The beef noodle soup is a customer favorite. The rich and savory broth is simmered for hours, resulting in a deeply flavorful and comforting soup. The tender slices of braised beef and the perfectly cooked noodles create a truly satisfying meal. Another must-try is the Zha Jiang Mian (noodles with ground pork in a soybean paste sauce). The slightly sweet and savory sauce, combined with the chewy noodles and fresh cucumbers, is a delightfully balanced and flavorful dish. Do not forget to try their handmade dumplings either! These are filled with flavorful fillings and are the perfect complement to any noodle dish.
Everyday Noodles stands out because of its unwavering commitment to craftsmanship. The dedication to making noodles by hand is a testament to the restaurant’s passion for authentic Chinese cuisine. The quality of ingredients and the skill of the chefs are evident in every bite, making Everyday Noodles a true gem in Squirrel Hill’s Chinese food scene. When seeking the best Chinese food, handcrafted excellence should be top of mind.
Address: 5879 Murray Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15217
Rose Tea Cafe: Cantonese Charm
If you’re in the mood for classic Cantonese cuisine, Rose Tea Cafe is a delightful option. Tucked away on Murray Avenue, this cozy restaurant offers a warm and inviting atmosphere, perfect for a casual lunch or a relaxing dinner. Rose Tea Cafe provides a Cantonese experience in a neighborhood already full of great Chinese food.
Rose Tea Cafe boasts a menu filled with familiar Cantonese favorites, from crispy wontons and fragrant fried rice to succulent roast duck and comforting congee. What sets it apart is its consistent quality and attention to detail. Each dish is carefully prepared with fresh ingredients and a generous helping of Cantonese culinary expertise.
The Roast Duck is a must-try. The skin is perfectly crispy and the meat is incredibly tender and flavorful. The Honey Garlic Spare Ribs are another popular choice, glazed with a sweet and savory sauce that’s simply irresistible. For something lighter, consider the Shrimp with Lobster Sauce. The delicate shrimp are bathed in a creamy and flavorful sauce, making for a truly elegant and satisfying dish. Their dim sum is also a popular pick with the locals.
Rose Tea Cafe earns its place among the best Chinese food options in Squirrel Hill because of its consistent quality, classic Cantonese flavors, and warm and welcoming atmosphere. It’s a reliable choice for a satisfying and comforting meal.
Address: 5870 Murray Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15217
HowLee Chinese Restaurant: Squirrel Hill Staple
For those looking for a more American-Chinese restaurant and who crave something quick and affordable, HowLee Chinese Restaurant is the place to go. HowLee has become a staple in the neighborhood for a good reason. Conveniently located in the heart of Squirrel Hill, HowLee has served quick and delicious Americanized Chinese options for many years.
HowLee’s offers the classics. From General Tso’s Chicken to Shrimp Fried Rice to Beef with Broccoli, HowLee’s always serves it hot and with large portions. The value and convenience is unmatched. Looking for a quick lunch? HowLee’s has you covered. Want an easy weeknight takeout option for the whole family? Look no further.
HowLee offers everything one would expect from this type of restaurant and does so with efficiency. While it may not have some of the fine details of the other restaurants, it earns its place in the guide for providing a neighborhood staple and excellent takeout option.
Address: 1719 Murray Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15217
Category Breakdown
Here’s a quick breakdown of the best restaurants by category:
Best for Sichuan
Sichuan Gourmet
Best for Hand-Pulled Noodles
Everyday Noodles
Best for Cantonese
Rose Tea Cafe
Best Budget-Friendly
HowLee Chinese Restaurant
Best for a Casual Meal
All of the above!
Best for Takeout
HowLee Chinese Restaurant
Other Notable Mentions
While the restaurants above represent our top picks, there are other excellent Chinese food options in Squirrel Hill worth mentioning:
- Amazing Dumpling: Known for its diverse selection of dumplings and other Northern Chinese specialties.
Navigating Squirrel Hill’s Chinese Food Scene
Navigating Squirrel Hill can present a few challenges:
Parking: Parking in Squirrel Hill can be tricky, especially during peak hours. Metered street parking is available, but it can be competitive. Consider using a parking garage or taking public transportation.
Reservations: For popular restaurants like Sichuan Gourmet and Everyday Noodles, reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends.
Dietary Restrictions: Many Chinese restaurants in Squirrel Hill are willing to accommodate dietary restrictions. Be sure to inform your server of any allergies or dietary preferences. Some restaurants can adjust for Gluten-Free, Vegetarian, or Vegan.
Explore: Don’t be afraid to try new things and step outside your comfort zone. Squirrel Hill’s Chinese food scene is diverse and exciting, so there’s always something new to discover.
Conclusion
Squirrel Hill’s Chinese food scene is a vibrant and diverse culinary landscape, offering something for every taste and budget. From the fiery flavors of Sichuan Gourmet to the hand-pulled perfection of Everyday Noodles and the classic Cantonese dishes of Rose Tea Cafe and American Chinese Staples from HowLee, there’s no shortage of delicious options to explore. So, next time you’re craving Chinese food, head to Squirrel Hill and embark on a culinary adventure. Let us know in the comments which restaurant is your favorite! Happy eating and enjoy the delicious diversity of Squirrel Hill!
