Il Valletto

4626 Forbes Ave.

(412) 621-3550

$$$

For large… Il Valletto

4626 Forbes Ave.

(412) 621-3550

$$$

For large helpings of garlic-heavy Northern Italian cuisine, the intrepid Pitt student need travel no farther than the Panther Hollow Bridge.

Right before the chasm separating Pitt from CMU, Il Valletto is nestled in the auspicious setting of an old row house. But don’t let the decor fool you; the food at Il Valletto is some of the best that Italian-lovers can find. Pastas that cover all of the plate and crisp, refreshing insalate are two of Il Valletto’s trademark dishes.

With a lunch menu mostly less than $11 and a dinner menu mostly less than $20, Il Valletto also makes a great place to take a date, especially on a warm night when you can dine beneath the patio set up on Forbes Avenue. The leisurely service and careful preparation will give you ample time to discuss classes or gaze into your date’s eyes, and the food will be sure to put love in both of your hearts.

– Greg Heller-LaBelle

Joe Mama’s

3716 Forbes Ave.

(412) 621-7282

$$

Accepts PittFunds

Marilyn Monroe loved it, Clint Eastwood raved about – or at least they did according to the signed pictures around Joe Mama’s rooms. You too can sit among their faces and see exactly what they were raving about.

With the yellow and red lighting, complete with small cozy booths and red-checkered tablecloths, there is a certain “amore” running through the rooms. The theme is complimented by the lively Italian music or jazz that constantly echoes throughout the restaurant. Because of the way the rooms are split into many different compartments, every part of the restaurant feels intimate and inviting.

Enjoy a crispy slice of fried mozzarella that is a step above the typical cheese stick or try one of the homemade pizzas. The pizzas are big enough for sharing and feature dough that is made fresh daily.

Or, if you are tired of the typical breakfast locations, try Joe Mama’s style of brunch on Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

– Lauren Unger

Lucca

317 S. Craig St.

(412) 682-3310

$$$$

This upscale restaurant may be a bit pricey but offers full meals including specialties such as seasonal seafood, Black Angus beef and authentic pan-tossed pastas. Lucca also has one of Pittsburgh’s largest and most extensive wine cellars.

Outdoor seating is available but plan ahead – the hours of operation are somewhat unusual – the restaurant closes in the middle of the day between lunch and dinner from 2:30 p.m. – 5 p.m. Lucca is also a place for jazz performers to showcase their talents.

– Karen Bielak