Zarra's Restaurant

Tucked on Bigelow Boulevard in Pittsburgh’s vibrant Squirrel Hill neighborhood, Zarra's Restaurant offers a warm, family‑run atmosphere that feels like stepping into a Southern Italian kitchen. The dining room features rustic wooden tables, soft amber lighting, and walls adorned with vintage Italian photographs, creating a cozy backdrop for the aromas of fresh garlic and simmering tomato sauce. The menu is a tribute to the chef’s lineage: Great‑Grandmother Filomena’s Ricotta Dumpling Soup, a comforting broth brimming with spinach, carrots, and hand‑shaped ricotta pillows, and the near‑legendary Tirami‑suzy, a playful twist on the classic tiramisu. Signature plates such as Aglie e Olio “Tuttu Cosa” combine extra‑virgin olive oil, artichoke hearts, roasted red peppers, and kalamata olives for a bright, peppery bite, while the Pollo Romano (Chicken Parmesan) delivers a crisp, cheese‑laden crust with a tangy marinara finish. Seafood lovers can savor Linguine with Seafood in White Wine Garlic and Butter, and meat enthusiasts enjoy a full Rack of Lamb marinated in Southern Italian herbs. Chef Judy’s homemade balsamic vinaigrette, available by the bottle, doubles as a gift and a salad dressing. Open nightly from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m., the restaurant offers a moderate price range, with entrees typically $18‑$35. Reservations are encouraged and can be made by calling 412‑682‑8296. A curated wine list highlights Italian reds and whites, and the friendly staff are happy to recommend pairings. Whether you’re a local craving a taste of Calabria or a visitor exploring Pittsburgh’s culinary scene, Zarra's promises an authentic, heartfelt Italian experience.