The Best Grub

Best bagel shop | Best breakfast | Best on-campus eatery | Best Chinese food | Best… Best bagel shop | Best breakfast | Best on-campus eatery | Best Chinese food | Best coffee | Best deli | Food to cook in a dorm | Best french fries | Best half-price menu | Best ice cream | Indian food | Best Italian food | Best juice vendor | Meal under $5 | Best Mexican food | Best Middle Eastern Food | Best pizza | Best place for a date | Best Sandwich shop | Best sub shop | Best Sushi | Best Thai/Asian food | Best Vegetarian | Best vending truck | Wings |

Best bagel shop: Bruegger’s Runner-up: Panera

The newly remodeled Bruegger’s can claim the best bagels in Oakland. As the company proudly boasts, their bagels are always fresh and available. Besides the bagels, the breakfast sandwiches are second to none. Along with the culinary delights, Bruegger’s can also claim the friendliest staff, as well.

John Nigro, staff writer

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Best breakfast: Pamela’s Runner-up: Panera

Let no one instruct you otherwise; you must head over to Pamela’s for a hangover helper breakfast. Greasy sausage, eggs, hotcakes and their famous lyonnaise potatoes will cure you of the “too-much-weekend blues.”

The recent renovations at Pamela’s may have changed the old-fashioned restaurant into a hip, ’50s-inspired diner, but the face lift has provided extra seating for college students, and the food is just as great.

Many favor the chocolate chip-banana hotcakes, which can be prepared traditionally or crepe-style. Cooked with chocolate chips, stuffed with bananas and loaded with whipped cream, these cakes prove that Pamela’s sure knows how to make breakfast unhealthy. But it’s oh so good.

Kaitlin Wingard, staff writer

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Best on-campus eatery: Cathedral Cafe Runner-up: Schenley Cafe

Let’s face it, when it comes to campus dining, there aren’t too many desirable places. However, one place clearly stands above the rest in quality and atmosphere: the Cathedral Cafe. No, they do not take meal blocks, but their food is worth the potential inconvenience. The Cathedral Cafe offers both the best sandwiches and best sushi, not to mention a pleasant atmosphere.

John Nigro, staff writer

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Best Chinese food: Lulu’s Noodles Runner-up: Szechuan Express

With the “arty” photographs of hip, multi-cultured looking people doing all manner of non-eating-related things with noodles and quite possibly the cheesiest piped-in music in all of Pittsburgh, barring maybe the Women’s section of Kaufman’s Downtown, some might wonder why Lulu’s Noodles was your choice for best Asian cuisine in Pittsburgh.

Well, those wonderers obviously haven’t tasted the impressive array of Asian-style delights Lulu’s offers. From the Spicy Szechwan noodle bowl to the General Tso’s chicken, to “Dr. Fu’s Special,” along with a selection of appetizers called “small eats” and many options for vegetarians, Lulu’s menu offers something for anyone craving something savory and reasonably priced on Craig Street.

Diane McMartin, Assistant Copy Chief

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Best coffee: Starbucks Runner-up: Kiva Han

It may not be as hip as Kiva Han, have a funky name like Crazy Mocha or roast its own beans like the Coffee Bean, but in our crazy, modern world, Starbucks is a constant. It will be there, at the airport, in Paris, in London and right here in Pittsburgh, with its seasonal drinks and froufy whipped cream, snappy service and ubiquitous green and white logo. Many think themselves too cool for Starbucks, but not Pitt students. So, have a gingerbread latte, and don’t apologize! With Oakland locations on Craig Street and on the corner of Atwood and Forbes, Starbucks is your choice for best place to get coffee in Pittsburgh.

Diane McMartin, Assistant Copy Chief

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Best deli: Campus Deli Runner-up: Jock’s

Now, think for a second. When your stomach is growling and you’re in the mood for a good-quality, delectable meal, Eddie’s, the Schenley Cafe and the Cathedral are the last places you want to go, considering you’ve probably eaten there every day for the past week. But then there’s the whole not-having-any-money issue, you being a college student and all, and you don’t want to spend a fortune on one meal. What is the answer to what seems to be an unsolvable problem? It’s quite simple – the place to go is Campus Deli, located on the corner of Bates and Semple streets.

This cozy, New York-style eatery is open until 11 p.m. on weeknights and features a large menu of hot and cold sandwiches, side dishes, deli salads and desserts. Not in the mood to eat in? Order meats, cheeses or salads by the pound and take them home to create your own meal! Campus Deli carries more than 10 kinds of Boar’s Head deli meats, eight different kinds of cheeses and more than 10 fresh, homemade deli salads.

Oh, and the money dilemma – solved! Campus Deli is delicious, yet very affordable, and accepts all major credit cards and Panther funds. So when you’re starving and need a quick and inexpensive place to eat with delicious food and convenient hours, drop by Campus Deli.

Sarah Kaufman, contributing editor

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Food to cook in a dorm: Ramen Runner-up: Easy Mac

So you’ve smuggled the hot plate into your dorm, and the RA is none the wiser. So what happens now? Well, the brightest minds of the previous generation came up with a type of quickly made soup that not only tastes not bad, but almost good. Its name is Ramen, and at 65 packs for a dollar at your local giant box food store, it’s hard to pass up.

Next time you tear open the package and you see those dry noodles and tiny pack of whatever seasoning, think about ways to spice it up, college style. You can mix Ramen with a microwave hot dog by chopping the processed meat into little bits. You can throw in pretty much leftover whatever. But the one thing Ramen doesn’t seem to mix with too well is the runner up.

Andy Medici, Assistant News Editor

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Best french fries: The ‘O’ Runner-up: McDonald’s

They certainly are not the healthiest, but they are the best tasting. The Original Hot Dog Shop’s french fries are the best in Oakland for good reason. Their famous greasiness only adds to the taste, not to mention their ability to fill one up quickly. Where else can French fries in and of themselves create an entire meal?

John Nigro, staff writer

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Best half-price menu: Fuel and Fuddle Runner-up: Joe Mama’s

At about 10:50 on any given night, you can see tons of salivating mouths and eager eyes waiting outside for the next free table inside Fuel and Fuddle. It’s so consistent, you could set your watch to it. Fuel and Fuddle not only has sports, music and beer (about 100 selections), but it also serves a savory, half-pound ground buffalo steak burger, along with other burgers, for about $4 after 11 p.m.

Besides these burgers for the bovine friendly, Fuel offers options for the “veg’ heads,” like their walnut avocado salad with roasted red peppers and artichoke hearts. For the omnivorous, though, Fuel has four types of wildfire wings, 11 kinds of personal, brick oven pizzas and other finger foods. With all these choices for less than $5 a meal, it’s no wonder that seven days a week there’s bound to be a crowd awaiting the late-night special.

Bilal Muhammad, Assistant News Editor

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Best ice cream: Dave and Andy’s Runner-up: Cold Stone Creamery

Dave and Andy’s sits rather inconspicuously, wedged tightly between two stores along a busy street. However, even in its cramped location, every college student has heard of this Oakland landmark. The waiting line often stretches far down the street, speaking to the high demand for their ice cream. Despite its small storefront, this ice cream shop has made a big name for itself in the city.

John Nigro, staff writer

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Indian food: India Garden Runner-up: Star of India

To graduate without ever experiencing the majesty of half-off food at India Garden might just be one of the cardinal sins of being at Pitt. The dining room is decked out in woodsy colors and interesting Indian art. Straight-outta-Bollywood music videos play from the television sets at all hours, mesmerizing viewers with their elaborate choreography and flat-out awesomeness. Dazzling as the atmosphere might be, though, it doesn’t outshine the menu, which is full of dozens of dishes for carnivores and vegetarians alike. Whether you like the classics or things a bit more adventurous, and no matter what your spice-tolerance is, you’ll have plenty of satisfying options. India Garden is no secret, though – it gets crowded once 11 o’clock hits, so don’t be surprised if the wait-staff is a little harried. Just sit back, order a glass of wine, turn your attention to the nearest TV screen and enjoy.

Emily Kaufman, Assistant Opinions Editor

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Best Italian food: Joe Mama’s Runner-up: Bruschetta’s

Linguine with shrimp and broccoli, extra spicy in a garlic and butter sauce. This tasty concoction of vegetables and seafood can be yours after 11 p.m. for half-off or before 11 p.m. and be worth every penny. Joe Mama’s is practically the only place in Oakland where you can satisfy a craving for Italian food and pay less than $10 to $15 for a meal.

Joe Mama’s definitely has the flavor you’re looking for. With a dressing that’s to die for and a potato soup that will warm you up on any Oakland winter night, stop by Oakland and Forbes avenues and charge it to the game – of Panther funds – you will not be disappointed.

Rose Afriyie, Opinions Editor

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Best juice vendor: GNC Runner-up: Freshens

GNC is often thought of as only a vitamin and nutritional supplement store. While they do have all of these things, they also have some of the best juices and nutritional smoothies in the area. With products including Whole Leaf Aloe Vera Juice, coming in flavors such as wild berry and cranberry, GNC offers a healthy alternative to fruit juices that are only 10 percent fruit. Their products are all natural and often are aimed at improving the health of the consumer. So, if you are after a healthy alternative to the usual soda at Eddie’s, GNC is the place to go.

Nick Lucca, Layout Editor

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Meal under $5: McDonald’s Runner-up: Antoon’s

Two all-beef patties special sauce lettuce cheese pickles onions on a sesame seed bun – Na na na na na, I’m lovin’ it. You readers have picked your favorite place to eat under $5, and its name is delicious. You’ve thought about your choice and demanded a Dollar Menu with a selection worthy of this University. You are bold – it takes guts to take a date there and even more to restrict them to under $5, but its worth it. So remember, when you are eating your four double cheeseburgers and ice water, or your rare splurge on a Big Mac value meal, just remember-

We love to see you smile.

Andy Medici, Assistant News Editor

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Best Mexican food: Mad Mex Runner-up: Qdoba

Anyone who thinks Pittsburgh restaurant culture consists of nothing but bars filled with mullet-sporting Steelers fans and sandwiches with french fries on them has obviously never experienced any of the Big Burrito restaurant group’s fine dining establishments. This company brings the hip, and Mad Mex is no exception.

Your choice for best Mexican in Pittsburgh, beating out a plethora of other options like the venerable VeraCruz and newcomer Baja Fresh, Mad Mex serves Mexican food with a modern twist and seriously strong margaritas. It’s a little dark and crowded on weekends, but when you’re stuffed full of their excellent guacamole and drunk on one of those fantastic, fruity, designer margaritas, who cares if you can’t see the person across from you?

Diane McMartin, Assistant Copy Chief

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Best Middle Eastern Food: Aladdin’s Runner-up: Salim’s

This exotic restaurant is easily accessible to Pitt students, located on Forbes Avenue in Squirrel Hill. The spicy foods are authentic, while the prices are affordable. What’s even better is that Aladdin’s offers hearty portions, making this Middle Eastern restaurant a must for anyone with an adventurous palate. Along with the great food, the interior is filled with interesting Middle Eastern decor.

John Nigro, staff writer

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Best pizza: Antoon’s Runner-up: Papa John’s

It’s 2 a.m. on Saturday, you’ve left the party and you and your friends are starving. Fortunately, you’ve got the number for Antoon’s in your cell phone. One phone call and $4.80 later, you’ve got a delicious large cheese pizza to feed you and your crew. You won’t be alone either, because lots of other students will be getting their Antoon’s fix at the same time.

Conveniently located at 247 Atwood St., Antoon’s is open during the day too, selling subs, hoagies, calzones and salads, although its main draw is definitely the yummy pizza.

Anna Kissell, contributing editor

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Best place for a date: Joe Mama’s Runner-up: Union Grill

If booths could talk, quite a few of us would be in a lot of trouble. Your relationship is not official until you’ve dined at the only Italian place to be in Oakland, Joe Mama’s. For most of us, our annual spending budgets are neck-in-neck with the disposable income of an Oakland panhandler. Ask any respectable man and he will school you that loving somebody isn’t cheap.

But you can count on Joe Mama’s to give you and your special somebody an atmosphere that deviates from the crowded environments in which we often find ourselves dining. Whether you are arguing over a check, meeting someone for the first time or just watching the Pitt game over drinks, with great food and comical autographed photographs, you’ll be in more than good company.

Rose Afriyie, Opinions Editor

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Best Sandwich shop: Primanti Brothers Runner-up: Campus Deli

Grab an ‘Arn and n’at and head down to Primanti’s, where the more you can fit on your sandwich, the better.

Primanti’s sandwiches come complete with coleslaw and fries slopped right on top of whatever meat you choose. You can ask for them on the side, but you’ll get a side of dirty looks that you definitely did not order.

This shop is truly Pittsburgh and is the one place you need to take your out-of-town visitors. The food is delicious and not too expensive, while the atmosphere screams Pittsburgh.

Geoff Dutelle, Sports Editor

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Best sub shop: Subway Runner-up: Quizno’s

It’s difficult to resist the lure of the smell of Subway’s fresh bread when passing by its Forbes Avenue location. During lunch time, this classic sub shop is always packed with hungry customers seeking their famous healthy lunches. But the reason this is one of the most popular places to dine in Oakland is that its delicious first, healthy second. Though the lines are often long, it’s worth the wait.

John Nigro, staff writer

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Best Sushi: Sushi Boat Runner-up: Ginza

Simplicity at its finest: rice, seaweed, seafood and vegetables – the sushi essentials.

In their Makizushi selection, Sushi Boat prepares these simple but delicious rolls, which range from the standard California roll (avocado, crabstick and cucumber) to the more exotic Dragon roll (eel, avocado and smelt roe) for those who have developed a taste for this Japanese culinary classic. On the cheaper side of their menu, customers can find Sushi Boat’s nigiri and sashimi sushi, which require hand-rolling techniques or a wooden mold to press the sushi and usually comes with two pieces per order.

The menu does not end at sushi, though. The Boat also has traditional rice and noodle bowls for other cravings. But, when your sushi urges tempt, Sushi Boat will surely appease you with their diverse and creative selections of sushi, always made with the barest of ingredients.

Bilal Muhammad, Assistant News Editor

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Best Thai/Asian food: Thai Place Runner-up: Spice Island

Sitting unobtrusively on South Craig Street, Thai Place has won countless Pittsburgh awards for its authentic, delicious cuisine. Not an especially large restaurant, Thai Place has a quiet, low-key atmosphere – its dishes, though, are anything but subdued. The kitchen will make anything as mild or spicy as you’d like; either way, the flavors are fresh and bright. Even better, if you get a craving for a bowl of tom kha gai (chicken coconut soup) or a plate of pad thai, Thai Place has locations in Fox Chapel, Wexford and also one Shadyside, which will deliver right to your door if you’re lucky enough to live in the neighborhood.

Emily Kaufman, Assistant Opinions Editor

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Best Vegetarian: Maggie’s Mercantile Runner-up: Panera

If you’re craving a big, thick, bloody steak, Maggie’s Mercantile is NOT for you. This vegan, deli-style restaurant offers its customers an ever-changing menu of dishes made from organically grown ingredients. Food is delivered to Maggie’s Oakland restaurant from their Stahlstown’s restaurant and farm throughout the week. Food is sold by the pound and you can mix and match dishes. Customers can dine in Maggie’s hip, chic atmosphere or get food to go. Maggie’s also has a variety of vegan desserts.

Sarah Bingler, staff writer

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Best vending truck: Scottie’s hot-dog stand Runner-up: Leena’s Food

Haiku for a Dearly Departed Friend

Scottie, your hot dogs

They were so fresh and juicy

Leaf falls on bare concrete

Diane McMartin, Assistant Copy Chief

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Wings: Wing Zone Runner-up: Fuel and Fuddle

If you ever do happen to fall into the Wing Zone, you’ll have lots of company. You can hang out with honey mustard or spicy lemon pepper. Why not chill with barbecue or mild, cajun or nuclear, or any of the 25 flavors that this busy buffalo business has to offer.

Wing Zone is built upon the basic principle that the only thing better than an order of wings is several orders of wings. So give them a call, order 100 or so and sit back and wait for the good times and freeloading friends to come rolling in.

Andy Medici, Assistant News Editor

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