Only in Pittsburgh will you find a salad topped with hot, crispy french fries — and locals wouldn't have it any other way.
The legendary Pittsburgh Salad layers crisp greens, grilled chicken or steak, melted cheddar, and creamy buttermilk ranch, then crowns the whole thing with a generous pile of fresh-fried fries. It's indulgent, it's unapologetic, and it is entirely Pittsburgh.
Born in the early 1960s at Jerry's Curb Service in Beaver, PA, this Steel City staple has spread to over 60 restaurants across the 412. The origin story is pure Pittsburgh: a hungry customer asked to "hold the bun" on a steak sandwich, requesting extra fries and dressing on top instead. Owner's wife Donna Reed tried it over fresh lettuce — and it became an instant hit.
Pittsburgh's love for fries-on-everything was also inspired by Primanti Brothers, who bundled meat, coleslaw, and fries together inside sandwiches for busy Strip District workers since the Depression era. The Pittsburgh Salad is the natural evolution — all that flavor, no bread required.
Where to Try the Best Pittsburgh Salad This Summer
Waffle fries, grilled chicken, cheddar & buttermilk ranch — the definitive classic version. Order it with a cold draft on the patio.
The OG fries-on-everything since 1933. Order the steak & cheese, Pittsburgh-style. The Strip District location is the original.
Locally-sourced greens, avocado, corn & crispy fries. The fresh, lighter take on the Pittsburgh Salad tradition.
Build-your-own bowl with fresh herbs, avocado & hot fries on top. Great for a quick lunch in the heart of the city.