Where To Eat And Drink In Pittsburgh During The 2026 NFL Draft

LifestyleDiningWhere To Eat And Drink In Pittsburgh During The 2026 NFL DraftByCarinne Geil Botta,Contributor.Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. Carinne Geil Botta is a food writer and food policy researcher.Follow AuthorApr 21, 2026, 05:00am EDTSunrise over the Point State Park fountain in Pittsburgh, PennsylvaniagettyGrowing up in Pittsburgh, the game of football—and the Steelers—was synonymous with the city itself. From thousands of Terrible Towels whirling around between quarters, a legendary symbol of Steelers loyalty, to the cheers echoing through Heinz Field (now Acrisure Stadium), the team’s presence in Pittsburgh has always been impossible to ignore. And from April 23 to 25, Pittsburgh will be stepping onto the national stage as host of the 2026 NFL draft, for the first time since 1948. After spending the past two years preparing for the over 500,000 attendees expected to flood the city this week, Pittsburgh has undergone major infrastructure upgrades, expanded event programming and citywide coordination efforts. But it’s not just about the picks—it’s also about planning where to eat and drink. From time-honored local institutions to buzzy dining destinations and draft weekend specials, consider this your culinary companion to navigating Pittsburgh during the NFL draft and beyond. The City’s Signature Sips To kick off the busy week, fuel up with rich espresso and flaky pastries, courtesy of some of the best coffee shops the city has to offer: La Prima Espresso Co, Espresso a Mano and Commonplace Coffee.A Pittsburgh tradition since 1988, La Prima Espresso is both a coffee roaster and caffè, now with locations in the Strip District, Downtown and Oakland. Be sure to snag a bag of small-batch roasted beans to go. In Lawrenceville, Espresso a Mano is an espresso bar and coffee shop with industrial interiors, a homey atmosphere and a loyal neighborhood following—for good reason. Pittsburgh’s coffee scene wouldn’t be complete wit...