15 Ways to Have the Best Date Night Ever in Downtown Pittsburgh 🍽️ 💑

Once known for its steel mills and sports teams, Pittsburgh is now a bustling cultural hub with plenty of unique venues any couple would love to explore. This guide to date night spots in downtown Pittsburgh has something for everyone, including:

• Date night classics like the theater and opera
• Quirky bars and restaurants that are sure to please your favorite foodie
• High-end steakhouse dinners for when you want to sit back, relax, and enjoy the finer things in life

Once you find your new favorite downtown Pittsburgh date night destination, be sure to grab a egift card for your honey. GiftYa cards link with your debit card, which eliminates the need to carry a physical gift card in order to enjoy the gift. Going card-free makes it easier than ever to plan a spontaneous evening out, so get out there and see where the night takes you!

1. Heinz Hall for the Performing Arts

For a special night in one of Pittsburgh's premiere concert venues

📍 600 Penn Ave. Ste 2 | Downtown | pittsburghsymphony.org

Since 1929, the gorgeous concert venue Heinz Hall for the Performing Arts has been bringing breathtaking cultural events to downtown Pittsburgh.

Heinz Hall is home to the non-profit Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra and Pittsburgh Youth Symphony Orchestra.

If classical music isn’t really your jam, you can also catch a wide variety of other events at Heinz Hall-- from comedians to lecturers to more modern musical acts. Regardless of what show you decide to see, the gorgeous backdrop of Heinz Hall is sure to make your date night feel truly special.

“Heinz Hall is one of my favorite venues of all time. The scale and scope of the venue and ornamental designs is breathtaking. Drinks and theater snacks are a bit pricey; however, the variety of ticket options makes up for it. I've been to concerts, symphonies, and special events - and have a blast whenever I visit!” – Yelp Review

2. Byham Theater

For some of the best plays, musicals and other entertainment in Pittsburgh

📍 101 6th St. Pittsburgh, PA 15222

‍The Byham Theater is another gorgeous and historic building located in the heart of downtown Pittsburgh.

When it was built in 1903, the Byham theater was known as The Gayety Theater, but it was renovated and renamed in 1990. While the name of the theater has changed, its breathtaking architecture and dedication to providing an intimate cultural experience has not.

The Byham Theater is your best choice for a classic date night at the theater–whether you prefer plays or musicals–in downtown Pittsburgh.

“Byham Theatre in the cultural district is smaller than other places but you get an intimacy not found elsewhere.  The orchestra pit, if you sit close, is available visually. The performers manage an entire show from the sound angle and do it very well. All the attention for plays is on the stage and performers." – Yelp Review

3. Olive or Twist

Creative cocktails and a lively atmosphere

📍 140 6th St | Downtown | olive-twist.com

If the literary play on words isn’t enough to grab your attention, the food at Olive or Twist should be!

This trendy spot is right in the middle of downtown Pittsburgh, making it a great place to grab food and drinks before a show or an amazing date night destination on its own.

Be sure to sample their creative cocktails–the Ruby Red Bellini and Chocolate Covered Pretzel Martini are local favorites.

“Last night I was lucky enough to try out many of the new items on their menu and wow! Everything is made fresh and the martinis were yummy‼ The general manager made sure everything was to my liking and I could tell the passion from the chef my favorite was the scallops risotto dish and the mussels appetizer. Looking forward to my next stop at Olive or Twist.” – Yelp Review

4. Butcher and the Rye

Stop into one of Pittsburgh's favorite cocktail spots

📍 212 6th St | Downtown | butcherandtherye.com

Another nod to a great work of literature, Butcher and the Rye is one of a kind restaurant serving up new American cuisine and delicious cocktails.

Butcher and the Rye’s location makes it an ideal stop before a Penguins, Pirates, or Steelers game, or you can simply pop in to try out their amazing drink and appetizer options after a long day at the office.

Pittsburgh locals love Butcher and the Rye’s romantic, rustic feel and creative cocktails. Be sure to try the Salinger’s Sling, created in honor of the author whose chef d’oeuvre inspired the restaurant’s name.

“I can't say enough good things. The funky decor, the waitress was descriptive on the whole menu.  The perfect cocktails and food. True chefs and mixologists there!!!!  We got the filet and the large plate scallops for dinner.  Everything melted in your mouth.  It was amazing. Cocktails we got Hey, The Gardens, and the Salinger's Sling. Amazing experience.” – Yelp Review

5. Täkō

Creative flavors for a Taco Tuesday date night

📍 214 6th St | Downtown | takopgh.com

If Taco Tuesday is your favorite night of the week, then do we have the perfect restaurant for you!

Täkō is a unique destination in downtown Pittsburgh, and it’s perfect for a date night you and your significant other will remember forever.

With creative flavor combinations both in their menu and in their cocktails, Täkō has delicious dinner and late night options to fit every palette.

Buy a GiftYa To Täkō when you follow the link!

“Really took me by surprise how good this place is. The tacos are amazing combinations of fusion Asian and Mexican, great flavors really well put together. The atmosphere is also wonderful with it's interior balcony, iron railings and old fashioned dim wire bulbs, almost a New Orleans atmosphere. Definitely recommended If you fancy something just a little different with great flavors and interesting atmosphere.” – Yelp Review

6. Howl at the Moon

Let loose with your other half in the late hours of the night

📍 125 7th St | Downtown | howlatthemoon.com

While Pittsburgh has plenty of historic theaters and unique cocktail bars, there are also plenty of places to party. For a date night full of drinks, dancing, and fun, be sure to check out Howl at the Moon.

Howl at the Moon is only open later in the week (Wednesday-Saturday), and it’s a great place to go let loose with your favorite person at the end of a long week!

“Howl at the Moon is on our list of go-to places when we want to dance and have fun drinks! We have gone at various times on weekends and have had various experiences. Each have been enjoyable and tons of fun!” – Yelp Review

7. Redbeard’s Sports Bar & Grill

Great food, great sports — catch all the action at Redbeard's!

📍 144 6th St | Downtown | redbeardspgh.com

Like many Pittsburgh couples, you and your date may find yourself in downtown Pittsburgh to attend a sporting event. Even if you weren’t able to snag those Pens or Steelers tickets in time for the game, you can rest assured that when you get to Redbeard’s Sports Bar & Grill, you’ll be able to catch all of the action.

Redbeard’s is considered a sports bar, but it’s much more than just drinks and TVs. Be sure to check out their pretzel stick appetizer and fish sandwiches.

“Great food. Great environment. We had a few beers and a bunch of appetizers. We went with the deep fried pickles, chicken quesadillas, buffalo chicken pitas, and pulled pork nachos ... I'd say the buffalo chicken pitas were the best! The pulled pork nachos were good, but nothing special. Kyle was our waiter and provided excellent service. I would definitely come back again!” – Yelp Review

8. SPACE Gallery

An experience that is truly out of this world in downtown Pittsburgh

📍 812 Liberty Ave | Downtown | trustarts.org

Pittsburgh is home to several incredible museums, including The Mattress Factory, The Andy Warhol Museum in Pittsburgh’s North Side, and the Carnegie Museums of Art and Natural History in Oakland-- but it also has plenty of smaller scale galleries to explore. SPACE Gallery is a date night must for Pittsburgh art lovers.

SPACE presents five or six exhibitions every year, and each one features unique, multidisciplinary pieces that take advantage of contemporary technologies to create an experience unlike any other.

“Space is just that a space but it's what fills this Space that makes it special. Its a large room that hosts some interesting artwork. My favorite is a piece of installation art. It's tree limbs that are in the shape of Guns. Very interesting. The exhibits change regularly and if you like art this is a place to check out.” – Yelp Review

9. August Wilson Center for African American History

Get educated on African American culture and history 

📍 980 Liberty Ave | Downtown | awaacc.com

Named after famous playwright and Pittsburgh native August Wilson, the August Wilson Center for African American History is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for the perfect date night activity in downtown Pittsburgh.

The August Wilson Center is a beautiful piece of architecture, and you can catch live performances-- often including Wilson’s plays-- as well as explore their art galleries.

“I've been a member here for 2 years, and I am proud to support the wonderful programming that takes place ... There's not a bad seat in the theater and I have been overwhelmed by the talent I've seen on display.” – Yelp Review

10. Eddie Merlot’s

Perfect down to the very last detail

📍 444 Liberty Ave | Downtown | eddiemerlots.com

Pittsburgh may be known for its casual fare–like Primanti’s enormous sandwiches and Kennywood’s iconic Potato Patch fries–but if you’re looking for something more formal, there are plenty of more refined options in downtown Pittsburgh as well.

Eddie Merlot’s is a world class steakhouse located right in the heart of the Burgh. Their mission is to provide guests with the finest service and highest quality foods, so if you’re looking for a date night destination that truly takes care of every little detail for you, Eddie Merlot’s is the place to go.

Buy a GiftYa To Eddie Merlot’s by following the link!

“Love Love Love!!! I've probably eaten here at least 10 times and they have yet to disappoint! They're stuffed shrimp is sooo delicious. I've have my filet Oscar Style and it was absolutely delicious! My favorite side is the Lobster Mash and the service is always on point! Would definitely recommend!” – Yelp Review

11. David L. Lawrence Convention Center

The perfect place to spend a full day out with someone you love

📍 1000 Fort Duquesne Blvd | Downtown | pittsburghcc.com

From an oddities and curiosities expo and auto shows to an anime convention that lasts multiple days, the David L. Lawrence Convention Center is home to all sorts of events in the cultural district of downtown Pittsburgh. This massive venue is the perfect place to host an event of pretty much any type, and it makes for an excellent destination to bring your date for a day packed full of fun. Plus, you get to indulge in award-winning food and beverage services while attending your favorite events, so you don’t even have to travel far for good food!

“This is an extremely large convention center. It's very spaced out, so be prepared for lots of walking. Multiple floors in separate buildings connected by bridges and Parkways. It is extremely clean. It's a great place to have a convention/conference.” – Yelp Review

12. Walk the Burgh Tours

Get ready to get acquainted with the city in whole new ways

📍 1049 Penn Ave | Downtown | walktheburgh.com

Feel like walking around with your partner through the various neighborhoods of the city of Pittsburgh? Want to get educated as you do so? You’ve come to the right place via Walk the Burgh Tours, where you can get your fill of physical fitness and knowledge all at the same time. 

This tour operator makes exploring all that the city has to offer a truly unique and fun experience. You’ll learn about Pittsburgh’s rich history, its iconic architecture, and even whiskey history themes. There is an exciting and thrilling ghost tour that takes place throughout downtown Pittsburgh, where you and your boo can get scared together while learning all sorts of fun facts. 

“I had the best time on a recent "Walk The Burgh" Black & Ghost Tour. It was a chilly night, but we had tea and hot chocolate along the way. Honestly, the tour was just fantastic. I brought my family back to almost every place afterwards the next day to explore some more. Excellent storytelling and historical references. I would highly recommend this experience.” – Yelp Review

13. Meat & Potatoes

A cozy spot to socialize and enjoy New American comfort meals

📍 649 Penn Ave | Downtown | meatandpotatoespgh.com

Craving some American comfort food while out exploring all the fun things that downtown Pittsburgh has to offer? Lucky for you, there’s plenty of food options littering the streets of downtown, including a fantastic gastropub by the name of Meat & Potatoes. 

Serving up New American cuisine, Meat & Potatoes focuses on delivering the simplicity of American comfort food with a distinguishable flare. A rustic atmosphere paired with innovative dishes that recall comforts from childhood come together to make Meat & Potatoes an especially social and reflective space, one where folks can seek out company in one another and strengthen genuine bonds.

“If you're into comfort food with a fancy twist, this spot is a must-try. The vibe is super cozy--dim lighting, modern decor, and just the right amount of fancy without feeling over the top.” – Yelp Review

14. Heinz History Center

Step back in time when you walk through the history center’s doors

📍 1212 Smallman St | Strip District | heinzhistorycenter.org

On the cusp of the Strip District and near the edge of the downtown border rests the Senator John Heinz History Center. An affiliate of the Smithsonian, this six-floor building is packed full of historical exhibits, archives, and even includes a separate sports museum detailing the rich sports history of the city of Pittsburgh. 

If history is your thing, then the Heinz History Center will mark itself as an absolute must-see destination. With floors dedicated to certain themes throughout the years, from World Wars to the Heinz company itself, you will get lost in the assortment of memorabilia and knowledge. 

“This is one of the nicest history centers I have ever been to. They have so much on display. Each floor is filled with so much stuff. You will easily spend a few hours walking around looking at everything. If you have time I would highly recommend adding this place to your list of things to do.” – Yelp Review

15. PPG Place

A gorgeous skyscraper that stands out above all the rest

📍 1 PPG Pl | Downtown | ppgplace.com

A gorgeous skyscraper resembling the turret of an old castle is home to PPG Industries, a global company that manufactures and supplies paints, coatings, optical products, and specialty materials. Covered in reflective glass and set on a plaza with fountains, this iconic building is a great downtown destination to hit up if you want to soak in the amazing sights that Pittsburgh has to offer. 

Often described as the crown jewel of the Pittsburgh skyline, PPG Place is nestled in the heart of downtown and only a short trek away from Market Square, where tons of delicious restaurants are located. A definite highlight of downtown during the holiday season, PPG Place is a must-see destination that will warm the hearts of any couple searching for beautiful sights. 

“Beautiful building. Beautifully decorated for Christmas this year. From the outdoor ice skating rink to the immense Ginger Bread House collection inside.” – Yelp Review

Downtown Pittsburgh has something for everyone, making it the perfect place for your next date night. Whether your evening out includes a relaxing drink, pushing yourself through a multi-mile long walking tour, or a fine steak dinner, GiftYa egift cards are a great way to go. You can discover even more great digital gift card options for Pittsburgh by checking out all of the other options available on GiftYa!

What’s the best date you’ve been on in downtown Pittsburgh? Share your stories in the comments below-- we’d love to hear from you!