In this episode, Jess explores the flavor, language, and grit of Pittsburgh — from the Steel City’s immigrant roots to the diner counters and hospital halls that still define it today. Featuring stories from the Glassport Diner, deep dives into local food staples like Primanti Bros. and Turner’s Tea, and reflections on resilience, healing, and finding home in a city that never stops rebuilding.
Visit Pittsburgh – Official city tourism board for events, attractions, and local guides.
https://www.visitpittsburgh.com
Pittsburgh History & Landmarks Foundation – Preserving and documenting Pittsburgh’s architectural and industrial heritage.
Heinz History Center (Smithsonian Affiliate) – A detailed look at Pittsburgh’s cultural, sports, and industrial history.
https://www.heinzhistorycenter.org
Pittsburghese Dictionary (Carnegie Mellon Project) – A linguistic deep dive into the region’s most famous accent.
Primanti Bros. (Est. 1933) – Home of the original Pittsburgh sandwich, born in the Strip District during the Great Depression.
https://primantibros.com/our-story
Turner Dairy Farms / Turner’s Premium Tea (Est. 1930) – The local dairy that created Pittsburgh’s beloved orange-and-white iced tea carton.
Mancini’s Bread Co. (Est. 1926) – Family bakery in McKees Rocks, known for its signature twist bread and century-long tradition.
Woley’s Fish Market (Strip District) – Historic fish market supplying fresh seafood to Pittsburgh homes and restaurants for decades.
Eat’n Park Restaurants – A Pittsburgh staple for family dining and home of the iconic smiley cookie.
Bombay to Burgh – Beloved Indian restaurant offering a Sunday buffet experience that has become a local favorite.
Pascual’s Pizza (Glassport) – A community favorite known for classic pies and local flavor.
https://www.facebook.com/pascualspizza
Mama Pepino’s (Clairton & Elizabeth) – Family-owned pizzeria serving traditional pizza and Italian comfort food.
Bottoms Up Grill & Bar (Glassport) – Neighborhood bar famous for its buffalo chicken pizza and laid-back vibe.
https://www.facebook.com/BottomsUpGlassport
La Gourmandine Bakery & Pastry Shop – Authentic French bakery offering pastries, croissants, and artisan bread across Pittsburgh.
https://lagourmandinebakery.com
Hazelwood Café – Cozy community café serving locally roasted coffee and seasonal fare in Pittsburgh’s Hazelwood neighborhood.
UPMC (University of Pittsburgh Medical Center) – One of the nation’s leading healthcare systems, headquartered in Pittsburgh.
University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine – Academic partner to UPMC and a hub for groundbreaking medical research.
https://www.medschool.pitt.edu