
The Pittsburgh Dish
Doug Heilman
Do you really know the food scene of Pittsburgh?! The Pittsburgh Dish introduces you to the people, places, and recipes that make our regional cuisine so special. By sharing personal stories, weekly recommendations, and community recipes, we aim to inspire you to connect with local taste makers and experience the unique flavors that shape our city.
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Top 10 The Pittsburgh Dish Episodes
Goodpods has curated a list of the 10 best The Pittsburgh Dish episodes, ranked by the number of listens and likes each episode have garnered from our listeners. If you are listening to The Pittsburgh Dish for the first time, there's no better place to start than with one of these standout episodes. If you are a fan of the show, vote for your favorite The Pittsburgh Dish episode by adding your comments to the episode page.

009 Guiding Local Food to Grocery Aisles with Paul Abbott
The Pittsburgh Dish
03/31/24 • 43 min
Paul Abbott from Giant Eagle Market District joins our table, and he's not coming empty-handed. He's here to unpack the journey of local food producers, from crafting their unique flavors right through to the moment their products hit the shelves. From the delight of tasting Pittsburgh's own Leona's Ice Cream Sandwiches or savoring La Familia's pasta sauce, knowing you're supporting the heartbeat of our food community. Our conversation with Paul reveals the dedication behind Market District's role in partnering with these culinary gems and how the relationships enrich our local food culture.
Get ready to pull back the curtain on what it takes for a product to go from concept to consumer. Through stories like a local salsa brand's rise to fame, we highlight the intertwined paths of personal dedication and community support that mark the success of Pittsburgh's food artisans. Learn how feedback and relationships are crucial in navigating the retail landscape, and discover the surprising ways that store leaders and team members scout for potential products that might just be the next big thing on your dinner table.
Finally, because we believe the soul of Pittsburgh is best experienced through many voices, food enthusiast Raquel Holiday and listener Eric P share notable food favorites – from comforting White Spaghetti with Breadcrumbs to the delectable mix of Mexican cuisine and frozen custard. Pull up a chair and prepare to indulge in the stories and tastes that define our vibrant culinary scene.

010 Culinary Bonds and Community with Shayla Penn
The Pittsburgh Dish
04/07/24 • 40 min
(00:58) Shayla Penn of Burgh Eats and Treats! graces our podcast with tales that extend beyond the plate, spotlighting the undeniable truth that food is the golden thread in the fabric of our communities.
(14:28) This episode isn't just a tasting menu; it's a celebration of places and faces that define our culinary landscape. You'll hear about the 'Burgh Eats and Treats!' Facebook Group's dramatic influence on local eateries like Gabriella's, where the perfect fish shout-out can make all the difference. And as palates expand, so do our connections, with Shayla's story underscoring how a shared meal can turn strangers into family.
(31:30) As we plate up the final course, we'll talk about the art of pairing the perfect wine with succulent dishes, specifically lamb chops. Catherine brings her expertise to the table, discussing the harmony found in a bottle of Bordeaux blend.
(37:42) To sweeten the send-off, Jeff's peach bread recipe promises to turn your kitchen into the most beloved bakery on the block. So, ready your forks and tune in for an episode that's as rich and satisfying as the perfect bite.

012 Artie's Hot Sauce: A Tale of Beats to Bottled Heat
The Pittsburgh Dish
04/21/24 • 39 min
(00:59) In this fiery episode of The Pittsburgh Dish, we sit down with the Spice King himself, Arthur Pitt, and learn about his unexpected journey from music, to cannabis private equity, to the hot sauce hustle. Artie dishes out the spicy beginnings of Artie's Hot Sauce, which started as a simple kitchen 'brain exercise' and has now blossomed into a full-blown passion project.
(20:27) Every entrepreneur has a story, and Artie's is a melody of twists and turns, from music mogul to hot sauce artisan. We reminisce about the lessons learned and connections made throughout his dynamic career path, that ultimately led to his current symphony of spice.
(34:46) As the summer sun beckons, we check in with the co-founder of Pittsburgh Foodies, Ashley Cesaratto, who gives her top recommendation for a daytime dining experience. It's a unique tuna melt that steals the show for her.
(36:55) And for those listeners looking to get their grill on, Eric P's grilled naan recipe will surely impress at your next backyard bash. Pull up a chair and enjoy!

014 Vines to Virtuosos: Unveiling Pittsburgh's Palate of Passions
The Pittsburgh Dish
05/05/24 • 18 min
(1:06) When a wedding gift evolves into a lifelong passion, it's a story worth uncorking. Join us as we raise a glass with Catherine Montest, who takes us on a spirited journey from receiving her first bottle of fine wine to diving deep into wine clubs and vintner adventures. Her insights remind us that, like a fine wine, relationships and palates mature beautifully over time. Our conversation isn't just about the bouquet of a good Bordeaux; it’s a toast to the connections we cherish and the moments we share.
(7:48) On a different note, we're squeezing in some melodious charm with Kevin Solecki, Pittsburgh's own accordion virtuoso, who brings his tunes and tales to our ears. Kevin's fingers dance over the keys, telling a story of tradition and triumph, from his performances at Wholey's Fish Market to his thriving Carnegie Accordion Company.
(13:44) And if your taste buds are tingling for more local flavor, Abby O'Connell is your guide to the culinary landscape of Spirits and Tales, from divine brunches to dinners that dazzle against Pittsburgh's Oakland skyline. Plus a party sandwich recipe that will have locals drooling. Don't just listen—become part of the narrative by sharing your own recipes and revel in the rich flavors of our region.

015 Korean Cuisine with the Bamboooyah Touch
The Pittsburgh Dish
05/12/24 • 42 min
(01:02) Embark on a flavorful journey with KT, also known as Bamboooyah, as she brings her Korean-inspired fusion cooking to our table, spicing up our culinary repertoire with inventive dishes and vibrant flavors. Her Korean heritage bubbles through each recipe, from the hearty army stew budae jjigae, a symbol of resourcefulness, to the intricate layers of fermentation that define Korean cuisine's soul. With KT's unique presentation style, where the food takes center stage in her content creation, we discover that silence can be just as powerful as storytelling in hooking an audience's fascination.
(16:11) Serving as wellsprings of inspiration, KT recounts local favorite shops like WFH and Sambok for her ingredients. For those yearning to dabble in Korean cooking, we share pantry staples and local spots where you can savor authentic experiences, including the delights of Soju in Garfield and the Golden Pig in Cecil.
(34:31) Finally, we wrap things up with Raquel Holiday, who points us towards the best bagels in Beaver County, while Rachel Rennebeck from the YaJagoff podcast serves up a tantalizing teaser for her family's secret Italian meatball recipe. So tune in, and let your taste buds be your guide.

043 A Culinary Year in Review with Doug Heilman
The Pittsburgh Dish
12/15/24 • 8 min
(01:14) Join Doug Heilman, as he shares a heartfelt, behind the curtain 'year in review' of The Pittsburgh Dish, with you as an essential part of our success story.
(04:35) Plus, get ready for an enticing culinary recommendation from our friend Kanika, with the unique diner experience at the Chop Shop in Butler, where traditional American classics meet creative twists, like roasted strawberry milkshakes and duck confit.
(06:15) We’re keeping the flavors coming with a final recipe of the year, a personal family favorite of Chef Ben D'Amico: Great Aunt Rose's braised calamari, a simple yet cherished holiday dish that carries rich emotional ties and versatility.
We'll be taking a short winter break. But rest assured, we’ll return soon in 2025, ready to continue celebrating the rich and diverse food culture of our region.

019 Kristy Graver's Culinary Stories
The Pittsburgh Dish
06/09/24 • 50 min
(00:54) Ever wondered how a food editor curates a list of the top 25 restaurants in a bustling city? Get an insider's perspective with Kristy Graver, food editor at Pittsburgh Magazine, as she shares her unique journey into food journalism, including the magical moment she received her job offer at her grandparents' grave. From the high-end elegance of LeMont to the cozy charm of Lawrenceville’s sandwich shops, Kristy provides a guided tour of Pittsburgh's diverse and vibrant culinary landscape.
(12:24) In this episode, we dive deep into Kristy's daily life, uncovering how she balances personal storytelling with larger feature pieces like the "burger bracket," which saw her sampling an impressive 32 cheese burgers. Learn about her discoveries, from beloved local institutions like Frankie's Extra Long to the artisanal delights of the Pittsburgh Pickle Company. As a Pittsburgh native, Kristy’s connection to the local food scene lends authenticity to her reviews and articles, further evidenced by her dedication to producing fresh weekly content for the Pittsburgh Eats newsletter.
(25:08) We also explore some of Pittsburgh's hidden culinary gems, including a Brookline bar known for its exceptional chicken fingers and the best Reuben she found at Marshall Cigar, a surprising gas station treasure.
(38:41) The episode wraps up with a sparkling summer wine guide from Catherine Montest, aka Your Fairy Wine Mother, and an enticing history of Mapo Tofu presented by listener Mae Chandran. Come along for a feast of flavors.

047 Chef Jonathan Homer's Culinary Journey
The Pittsburgh Dish
02/22/25 • 38 min
(00:53) Chef Jonathan Homer, the executive chef at Pizzaiolo Primo in Market Square, takes us on an exhilarating journey through his career and aspirations. Transitioning from a successful stint at Blue Sky, Chef Homer immerses himself in Primo's world of Neapolitan-style cuisine, celebrated for its made-to-order pastas and irresistible wood-fired pizzas. We rave about the iconic crab limon and ragu bolognese with tagliatelle, and the art behind crafting a perfect margherita pizza that has sold thousands.
Jonathan's story is one of resilience and passion, tracing back to family roots in Uniontown and Cleveland, where Polish and Italian community traditions first sparked his culinary dreams. Jonathan's journey is filled with personal challenges, including his father's illness and recovery, which propelled him toward his dreams in St. Louis. His time at Favazza's Italian restaurant taught him the finer points of fresh pasta making, cementing his dedication to the craft.
(19:48) This chapter of his life paints a vivid picture of a chef who constantly evolves, learning from each experience and mentor he encounters, which continues with his return to Pittsburgh.
(26:37) Later in the show, we explore the warmth and wings of Bigham Tavern in Mount Washington with Autumn Pawelec, and get a cherished family tradition of making homemade gnocchi from the Costanzo family. Join us for an episode filled with passion, perseverance, and flavor.

000 Introducing The Pittsburgh Dish
The Pittsburgh Dish
01/25/24 • 1 min
Welcome to The Pittsburgh Dish, Pittsburgh's newest regional food show. Join us each week for profile interviews, recommendations, and recipes. We aim to inspire our listeners to connect with their local food scene and learn more about the unique flavors that shape our city. Thanks for checking out The Pittsburgh Dish!

008 Wheeling in Warmth and Flavor with Chef Janet Loughran
The Pittsburgh Dish
03/24/24 • 38 min
When Chef Janet Loughran wheels her way into our hearts, she's not just pulling along a red wagon filled with culinary delights; she's carting a lifetime of poignant stories and robust flavors. Her journey from distributing home-cooked comforts during the throes of a pandemic to becoming the private chef every Pittsburgher would want—it's a testament to genuine passion and a hearty wedding soup.
Transitioning from a clerical assistant to a culinary artist is no easy feat, but with a pinch of courage and a cup of determination, Janet found her true calling amidst the sizzle and chop of the kitchen. The journey has been as flavorful as it has challenging, from navigating the dynamics of team collaboration in a high-pressure culinary environment to becoming the food and beverage director at a local golf course, and now serving as your friendly kitchen fact finder on her Instagram, @Chef.Life.Hacks!
Later in the show... Looking for some soul in your food. We spotlight the soulful A&E Eatz where every dish promises a story as rich and satisfying as the flavors on your plate. Plus we share a halushki recipe, where the noodles never mush out , and plenty of butter is the key. All this week!
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FAQ
How many episodes does The Pittsburgh Dish have?
The Pittsburgh Dish currently has 57 episodes available.
What topics does The Pittsburgh Dish cover?
The podcast is about Society & Culture, Cooking, Pittsburgh, Local, Human Interest, Eating, Podcasts, Arts and Food.
What is the most popular episode on The Pittsburgh Dish?
The episode title '001 Savoring the City with Ana Eats Pittsburgh' is the most popular.
What is the average episode length on The Pittsburgh Dish?
The average episode length on The Pittsburgh Dish is 36 minutes.
How often are episodes of The Pittsburgh Dish released?
Episodes of The Pittsburgh Dish are typically released every 7 days.
When was the first episode of The Pittsburgh Dish?
The first episode of The Pittsburgh Dish was released on Jan 25, 2024.
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