Estimated to be the fifth-largest population of Italian Americans in the United States, Pittsburgh is home to close to 315,000 Italians. While many of the enduring Italian establishments finally closed their doors, you can still find pieces of Pittsburgh’s Little Italy throughout the city. Here is a short list of some of the oldest Italian establishments still thriving in the Steel City.
Immaculate Conception Parish (1901)
When Italian immigrants started calling Pittsburgh home in the early 1900s, they needed a gathering space to worship. In 1905, the Italian population boom in Bloomfield sparked the need for a church and the community built Immaculate Conception Parish. In 2001, the city of Pittsburgh merged St. Joseph's Church, a historic church for German immigrants, and Immaculate Conception Parish to form a single parish.
Don Cercone’s Barber Shop (1931)
Don Cercone’s has been a landmark in Pittsburgh since it opened in 1931. Mr. Cercone immigrated to the United States from Abruzzo, Italy, and established a place where men and boys could gather together, get a fresh haircut, and catch up on the local happenings. The Cercone family has been active members of the community since opening the barbershop.
The Pleasure Bar (1941)
One of the oldest surviving Italian eateries in Pittsburgh, The Pleasure Bar has been serving authentic Italian cuisine since 1941. They also serve some of the best spirits in all of Pittsburgh. The staff works hard to make sure that it remains one of the finest establishments in the city.
Groceria Italiana (1958)
Opened by the same owners of The Pleasure Bar, Groceria Italiana is operated by Rose Marie Rossi who oversees the Italian store. The small corner grocer offers freshly made sandwiches, soups, and salads. Although the original Groceria Italiana closed in 2015, Rich Trocchio has kept the tradition alive by reopening the business as “Bloomfield Groceria.”
Groceria Marente (Late 1950s)
Opened by brothers Italo and Salvatore Marente in the late 1950s, this grocery store has had multiple locations throughout Pittsburgh. Here you’ll find fresh local and imported ingredients, quality cuts of meats, and delicious deli sandwiches. In 1979, they settled at the same location where you can find them today on the corner of Bates and McKee.
AJ Forrisi
Assistant Editor for America Domani, AJ Forrisi is a Brooklyn-based writer and photographer. His work focuses on food, travel, sports, landscapes, and urban scenes. You can find him on Instagram @aj.photo.works.