Slice of the Steel City

The Breeze of Summer

2010-01-26T08:45:00.003-05:00

Nestled in the Station Square foodies is a new place: Island Cafe! They took over the old Starbucks place and it looks awesome.

I discovered this place one afternoon while doing my job hunt with my friend. We walked in to apply and got swept up in the atmosphere. The place is cafeteria style where you can see them prepare your food (which I think is pretty cool!).

Now I have to say I didn't get time to try anything but they have EVERYTHING there and its all cheep! So I really want to go back and think you should all check it out too. Tell me what you think and we can collaborate.

I has paninis for $6.50, Sandwiches from $2.35 - $5.50, Wraps for $6, Wins from $4.25 - $10.75 (6 pieces to 20!), Soups and Salads, Sides, Beverages Platers and Breakfast!!! What more could a Pittsburgher want? I also noticed its the hot spot for students and workers over in Station Square to eat lunch at.

Hours:
Sunday 8am-6pm
Monday-Thursday 6am-9pm
Friday 6am-11pm
Saturday 7am-11pm

224 W. Station Square Drive (412) 281-6201 or (412) 281 - 6202

So rustle me up a BBQ Best Panini and I'll see you there soon!

American Red Cross Pledges Initial $1 Million to Haiti Relief

2010-01-13T23:35:00.000-05:00

American Red Cross Pledges Initial $1 Million to Haiti Relief

Let's follow suit and help out Haiti in their time of need! Text "Haiti" to 90999 to donate $10 to the Red Cross' effort to help Haiti - It charges the $10 to your phone bill.

Healthy Chinese from College Lifestyles Blog!

2010-01-12T20:50:00.004-05:00

So one of my fellow interns at College Lifestyles posted these AMAZING recipes for healthy Chinese food earlier this month and I just HAVE to share them with you. Check out Katy's article in her original format and the rest of our articles on the site!

Here is just ONE of THREE of her recipes - go to her article for the rest!

Sweet and Sour Tofu (serving size: 1 ½ cups)

Ingredients:

1 20-ounce can pineapple chunks or tidbits, packed in juice

3 tablespoons rice-wine vinegar

2 tablespoons ketchup

2 tablespoons reduced-sodium soy sauce

1 tablespoon brown sugar

1 14-ounce package extra-firm water-packed tofu, drained, rinsed and cut into 1/2-inch cubes

2 teaspoons cornstarch

2 tablespoons canola oil, divided

2 tablespoons minced garlic

1 tablespoon minced ginger

1 large red bell pepper, cut into 1/2-by-2-inch strips

1 large green bell pepper, cut into 1/2-by-2-inch strips

Directions:

1. Drain and set aside pineapple, reserving 1/4 cup of the juice. Whisk the reserved pineapple juice, vinegar, ketchup, soy sauce and sugar in a medium bowl until smooth. Place tofu in a large bowl; toss with 3 tablespoons of the sauce. Let marinate for at least 5 minutes and up to 30 minutes.

2. Meanwhile, add cornstarch to the remaining sauce and whisk until smooth.

3. Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat.

Transfer the tofu to the pan using a slotted spoon; whisk any remaining marinade into the bowl of reserved sauce. Cook the tofu, stirring every 1 to 2 minutes, until golden brown, 7 to 9 minutes total. Transfer to a plate.

4. Add the remaining oil to the pan and heat over medium heat. Add garlic and ginger and cook, stirring constantly, until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add red and green peppers and cook, stirring often, until just tender, 2 to 3 minutes. Pour in the reserved sauce and cook, stirring, until thickened, about 30 seconds. Add the tofu and pineapple and cook, stirring gently, until heated through, about 2 minutes more.

NutritionPer serving: 255 calories; 12 g fat (1 g sat, 5 g mono); 0 mg cholesterol; 32 g carbohydrates; 10 g protein; 4 g fiber; 368 mg sodium; 537 mg potassium.

*Picture courtesy of Katy's Original Article

A Little Healthy Reading

2010-01-10T13:03:00.004-05:00

Bethenny Frankel Book Signing from Boca Raton magazine on Vimeo.

Since I'm on my health kick for 2010, I thought I'd share my inspiration. I came across this book in my college's bookstore before Christmas Break and, though I'm not finished reading, this book has some really great ideas!

Naturally Thin by Bethenny Frankel (you know her as the star to "Real Housewives of NYC")

She gives you simple rules to follow like "your diet is a bank account" and "taste everything, eat nothing" but doesn't tell you to starve yourself, skip meals or eat super healthy - cardboard tasting food. It's real life advice for real people!

Healthy 2010

2010-01-08T16:31:00.003-05:00

If you are looking for a way to kick the 2010 off in a healthy way (like me!) I've got your back!

Just today I figured out a cheep, simple and healthy meal for ya'll college students to make (and it's tasty!).

Grilled Chicken Salad
- Grilled chicken
- Tomatoes
- Cucumbers
- Carrots
- Cheddar Cheese (Optional)
- Ranch Dressing (Optional)
- Hot Sauce (Optional)

Each variation is shown below:

#1 - Loaded!

#2 - No Cheese

#3 - Bare Minimum

Cheep Chili

2010-01-06T20:05:00.003-05:00

When the wind is a-roaring and the temperature is low the best food is chili! And I have the simplest recipe for you guys.

Recipe:

2 lbs (or however much you like/need) lean ground beef or turkey (or go Vegan and take it out!)
1 can Red Kidney Beans
1 can Pinto Beans
1 small bag of carrots (chips or shredded or cut your own)

1 large Green Pepper, sliced and diced
1 small jar Minced Garlic
Minced Onions
1 large can Crushed Tomatoes
1 small can Tomato Sauce

1. Brown the meat. Season as you like.
2. Throw in veggies and beans (including liquid). Cook together
3. Pour in all tomato products
4. Cook down till everything is as you like.

An Erie Special

2010-01-02T12:38:00.003-05:00

While on Christmas Break I thought I'd do a special post for my Erie people - or if you are going to travel to Erie anytime soon.

If you are looking for some good Chinese food for lunch or even dinner, look no further than Happy Garden located on 418 State Street.

View Larger Map

I went there New Year's Day with a friend and ordered the General Tso's Chicken with fried rice and an egg roll with a Wild Cherry Pepsi. All of that only costed about $6 so price is pretty good here too. They have a huge menu as well so if something else tickles your fancy...

My only issue was the actual place is sort of grungy looking and the employees don't talk unless you are ordering or needing something...you might just want to use this place for take out!

Legendary Cheesecakes

2009-12-18T22:32:00.004-05:00

If you are looking for a nicer restaurant to go for a special occasion - or you are looking to dive into the best cheesecake outside of New York City, there is no better place then The Cheesecake Factory!

With two locations in our great city of Pittsburgh (Ross Park Mall and South Side Works) you can't go wrong!

Their menu offers appetizers, entrées and desserts (and NOT just cheesecake). And for you 21 year olds, they got a great big menu of tasty drinks just for us (I love being 21!). They make a mean Peach Bellini.

They are a little pricer, so save up or plan a special event when going here. Their food makes up for the price though - so don't feel bad when you spend $20 or more for one dinner.

Eat Fresh!

2009-12-16T11:32:00.006-05:00

If you are looking for a quick, inexpensive and healthy lunch - look no further than Subway (Eat Fresh)!

It has the catchy "Five - Five Dollar - Five Dollar Foot long" jingle (and the funny commericial with the construction men trying to remember how it goes) but it goes way farther than just $5 for a foot long. That foot long will be tasty, cheap and healthy too!

My favorite has to be the buffalo chicken (yea, yea - if you know me this isn't something new) on Italian Herbs and Cheese with Provolone cheese (toasted) with tomatoes, cucumbers, olives and just a little Ranch Dressing. Talk about Bon Appétit (watch "Julie & Julia, seriously).

They also do breakfast now (oooo) and pizzas (ahhhhh) and even soup! And please don't forget their meal deals! A 6-inch sub with (choices: yogurt, chips, cookies or apple slices) with a medium drink is only $7! Aren't WE healthy?

Find your Subway Restaurant.

Update on the Dozen!

2009-12-14T00:41:00.006-05:00

So I did after writing the post on Dozen Bakery go visit it on Liberty Ave with a friend. It was outstanding - though the downtown shop is much smaller than I assumed. There is no sitting room and they unfortunately can not warm their foods up.

They have such interesting and delicious foods though. From breakfast to dessert you can not go wrong with Dozen!

This is what's up for the Holidays at Dozen!

And their cupcake menu

And here is their daily menu

'Dozens' of Cupcake Dreams

2009-12-10T00:00:00.000-05:00

I have heard about this place in reverent whispers through friends in classes. I have also walked past this place on Liberty Ave. numerous times and have drooled at the deliciousness I saw through the windows.

Let's welcome to the center stage: Dozen Bake Shop, cupcake specialists! This place supposedly serves up the best cupcakes in downtown Pittsburgh with their cozy atmosphere calling to weary, chocolate-craving travelers outside on these mean streets of PIttsburgh.

Could a cupcake be all that good? It is the question on my mind when I heard of this place and honestly I can not answer why THEIR cupcakes are the best, it's just what I have heard. Someone want to go and find out? And bring me back a triple chocolate cupcake as well?

"At the Bake Shop we encourage you stay for a bit, enjoy your coffee and pastry. Heck, why not sit all day! Enjoy the company, the free WiFi, and the yummy made-from-scratch desserts. Our kitchen is wide open so you can see all the desserts being made! And who doesn't want to watch a baker frosting cupcakes? And guaranteed, you'll get the friendliest service from our staff."

I wouldn't mind sitting in there with a cup o' joe, chocolate cupcake piled high with icing and use up the free WiFi!

They do other things besides desserts too! Breakfast, brunch and lunch is advertised on their site too! Mmmm next time I walk by I'm going to have to check this place out!

A 21st Birthday Wish

2009-12-02T11:43:00.002-05:00

So for all of you who haven't known, I turned 21 yesterday (December 1st)! And where would a 21 year old hit up on a Tuesday night? BAR LOUIE!

I planned a little dinner shin-dig at Bar Louie over in Station Square for me and my friends. Coincidentally it was Dollar Burger night too - so it was so much cheaper and delicious too.

Every Tuesday night from 5 pm till close Bar Louie serves dollar burgers (that includes lettuce) with extras ranging from bacon (yum!), buffalo sauce to fresh jalapenos. The bacon and cheeses and things are only 50 cents extra and the sauces are only 25 cents extra. And you can get a HUGE basket of tater tots or french fries for like a couple of bucks (and share it with the whole table, because we never finished all of ours still).

Also, to inform everyone my first legal alcoholic drink was a S'mores Martini (looks great, very strong though) from my best friend. But I ended up with a Naughty Irish School Girl which is like heaven on earth (thanks to my friend Danielle for getting her's first!)

They're other foods are not badly priced either and taste really good. Watch out for the alcoholic drinks, they are like $9 each - so just be careful you have a big enough budget for multiples (or have a friend with one).

FYI: Bar Loui will be open Christmas Eve and Christmas Day!

Pumpkin Pie Sarcasm

2009-11-27T00:00:00.000-05:00

This is a sarcastic, how-to video on pumpkin pie, from scratch! Thought this would be a good time since Thanksgiving just happened and Christmas is coming.

Now you can gear up to either help your ma bake some pies (!) or at least appreciate the work that went into them before you devour them! ENJOY!

Happy Thanksgiving

2009-11-25T00:00:00.000-05:00

Well, can you tell this guy was trying to make you laugh enough so that you didn't invite him to be the MAIN guest to your Thanksgiving Dinner? Since it is the day before our sacred TURKEY DAY (I'm so getting my grub on!) I thought I'd shed a little light on the origins of turkey and Thanksgiving.

Thanks to Wikipedia (us College students' savior) I got the 411 on Thanksgiving Dinner:

- President Lincoln nationalized Thanksgiving in 1863

- Turkey only became the center piece after 1800

- 1857: Turkey FINALLY became a staple in New England

- Thanksgiving dinner similar to Christmas dinner

- TURKEY, TURKEY, TURKEY!

- Alternatives: goose, duck, turducken (Links to Wiki's thoughts on this newly formed creation), tofurkey (Links to Wiki's explanation of this... delicacy).

And for you cooks out there, take this story into thought: Last year my aunt visited for Thanksgiving and helped cook dinner with me and my sister. Well my sister and her put the turkey in - and I was the one helping her take it out. When we took it out she said "I KNOW this bird had wings and legs! Where did they go?" We thought we had a defective bird! Then she realized it was UPSIDE DOWN when we cooked it. Made for some delicious white meat. *hint* *hint*

HAPPY TURKEY *GOOBLE* *GOOBLE* DAY!

A Dorm-Style Thanksgiving

2009-11-23T00:00:00.000-05:00

Stuck at school for Thanksgiving? No problem, I got you covered! Well actually, Associated Content does.

If your school doesn't offer Thanksgiving dinner (or you know it will suck) you have a few options here. First, beg your parents to send you food. Second, go home with a friend. Or THREE - host your own Thanksgiving Dinner!

Or you could have great parents like mine when I was stuck in Texas one Thanksgiving. My mom baked a whole Thanksgiving dinner (with some substitutes in place) and FEDEXed me my Thanksgiving dinner!

Associated Content gives these tips (and check out their post for in depth details!):

- Invite Friends/Classmates/Sorority or Fraternity Members

- Assign the food to the guests, have them each or a couple bring the food and utensils. For the Turkey buy a precooked one from the store

- Find a big enough area to set up dinner if your dorm will not work: common area, lounge, or the Point Park University lobby (have you seen that place?)

- And finally, Entertainment! Once the food is over do something: touch football, movie, board games, Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade/Boscov's (for you Philly residents), or watch a football game.

HAVE A HAPPY THANKSGIVING TO ONE AND ALL!

Einstein Did More Than Just Math

2009-11-20T00:00:00.000-05:00

If you are looking for a great breakfast place downtown then look no further than Einstein Brothers! They carry the best bagels in the business for a price that doesn't put moths in your wallet.

Their cute little atmosphere makes you feel right at home when you go in to order a bagel and SHMEER! Yes that is right I said SHMEER and it is darn good shmeer if you ask me too. No longer are the days with just a bagel and cream cheese, no Einstein Brothers have given us SHMEER for our bagels. (If you can not tell that word makes me smile - and makes you feel that much more important. Cream cheese is so five seconds ago.)

But never fear, they do other things besides bagels and shmeer too. If you like your eggs this place piles them up for you; they've got them on sandwiches, paninis and even wraps! Mmm...aren't you getting hungry for breakfast?

If you aren't a breakfast person, Einstein's has you covered too. They serve up sandwiches, wraps, pizza bagel meals, bagel dogs (those tasty creations where a wiener is wrapped inside a bagel!) and even soup and salads. For their full menu at your fingertips click here. For their fun interactive menu click here.

In any event Einstein Brothers has your food-loving cravings covered. And for Point Park and AIP students all you have to do is walk to PPG plaza to get your fix!

A Taste of of the South East

2009-11-18T00:00:00.000-05:00

If you have ever wanted to try your taste buds at different foods, then look no further than The Spice Island Tea House.

With the "flavors of South East Asia" on your plate you won't want to go back to the old fast food place for lunch.

Located at 253 Atwood Street, The Spice Island Tea House serves scrumptious food with a good price. Most items don't go over $11. Take a look at their menu.

And for you 21 + (2 weeks for me!) they have a great selection of wine and beer. And for you minors (or non-alcoholics) they have a handful of exotic teas (unless you are like me who hates teas).

Hours: Monday-Thursday 11:30am to 9pm and Friday - Saturday 11:30am to 10pm

And the Top Ten Are.....

2009-11-16T00:00:00.000-05:00

Ever wanted to know where the "cheep eats" are in Pittsburgh?

Check out what Urban Spoon thought!

1. Peppi's (Ooo fun name upfront- let's hope the food is fun too!)

2. Primanti Brothers -Strip District (Well duh, they had to get up here at least ONCE!)

3. D's Six Pax & Dogz (Sounds like a bad version of a gang ... )

4. Primanti Brothers - Market Square (...and they made it TWICE!)

5. Cambod-Ican Kitchen (Hmmm sounds interesting...what do you think?)

6. Smiling Banana Leaf (I want a smiling banana leaf! Wait, do banana leaves smile?)

7. Thai Me Up (Sex reference? Hmm kinky and tasty I hope)

8. Five Guys Famous Burgers and Fries (Well this just makes me hungry)

9. Dor-Stop (I'm not sure what to think with this one)

10. Don Campiti's Pizzeria (Do you have to wear a suit and carry a uzi to get through the door?)

Get all the links for these places here!

Bee-licious Coffee

2009-11-11T00:00:00.000-05:00

If you are looking for a great place to hang, to grab a coffee (or other delicious drink) and to soak up the creative vibes you need not look any further than South Side's very own Beehive.

Located on East Carson Street the Beehive has been home to foodies and artists since it open in 1994.

They serve coffee, cookies, smoothies (some of the best I have EVER had), ice cream and tons of other scrumptious snacks that will fill your belly for a perfect price.

You will also feel right at home with their mismatched furniture and decor that is so crazy it's comforting.

And the best thing is that it is opened late! Monday through Thursday they are open till 1am and on Fridays and Saturdays it's open till 2am. You can't go wrong while walking the streets of South Side with a cup o' joe from the Beehive.

Check out their website for more information here.

College Lifestyles To the Munchy Rescue

2009-11-09T00:00:00.000-05:00

We all get study cravings at college - but do we know what is healthy and tasty to grab for?

College Lifestyles did the work for us! Check out their post about the 5 Healthy, Crunchy Snacks to grab for.

1. Rice Cakes

2. BAKED Tortilla Chips and Salsa

3. Carrots

4. Almonds

5. Yogi Granola Crisps

Round of applause for College Lifestyles!

Survey Time!

2009-11-04T12:13:00.001-05:00

Quizzes by Quibblo.com

Find Out What Kind of Cook You Are

2009-11-04T12:05:00.001-05:00

Quizzes by Quibblo.com

3 Minute Chocolate Mug Cake

2009-11-04T00:00:00.000-05:00

Craving Cake? Stock up on these ingredients and you can have cake ANY time you please.

Let's Test Your Knowlege

2009-11-02T12:45:00.002-05:00

Quizzes by Quibblo.com

2009-11-02T12:33:00.001-05:00

What is your favorite kind of pie for Thanksgiving?(surveys)

2009-11-02T12:28:00.000-05:00

* Halloween Howl *

2009-11-02T12:11:00.000-05:00

South Side Steaks

2009-11-02T00:00:00.000-05:00

If you lived in Pittsburgh for any amount of time you know the best food resides in South Side. But did you know some of that tasty food you can get pretty cheap too? Well this is what I'm here to show you.

South Side Steaks reins supreme for the cheap but delicious food. They are the typical Philly cheese steak kings that twist it to fit us Pittsburghers. How you might ask? By the big taste, cheap prices and Pittsburgh atmosphere.

Their Original Steak costs only $6.31 and you get to pick from 4 types of cheese for them to lay on your steak.

My personal favorite is their Buffalo Chicken Steak (if you know me, you know I die for anything buffalo chicken - but theirs is the best!) and it only costs $6.78 and you get to pick your cheese AND get blue cheese with it on the side.

Fountain drinks are refillable and it only costs you $1.87.

Check out their full menu here!

The best thing about them is they accept cash or debit card. So walk on up to their counter and grab yourself a steak and drink and watch the game!

Grab a Bite!

2009-10-28T00:00:00.000-04:00

If you are looking for a quick bite to eat then you don't have to go any further than Wendy's. Yes it is fast food but it's the best out there that I've found.

Wendy's grilles their food and keeps it as fresh as can be. They also give costumers selections on their side dishes. No longer are people stuck to "do you want fries with that?" No! Now the bonds are free from our wrists and we can CHOOSE! You can order mandarin oranges, fries or chili as your side now.

It's also pretty cheap and fast once you get through the lines. The lunch lines at the downtown one can be horrendous because so many people like Wendy's (go figure). But once you order it normally doesn't take to long to get your food.

They also have these great new Frosty drinks. You can mix them with things or make frozen Mocha Frosties. They are so good!

As a plus they have an incentive with their receipts. Keep your receipt and go home with it. You can either call the costumer service line on the back or go on the web to fill out a short survey. At the end it'll give you a access code to write on the receipt and you can get a free frosty or burger or other food items. There's lunch for the next day!

Coffee King More Like Prince

2009-10-26T00:00:00.002-04:00

Everyone has heard of Starbucks, if you haven't you must have been living under a rock. They are the coffee tycoons of the globe. And if you live downtown there are about a handful of them all in walking distance to each other.

Beyond stating the obvious (which is Americans REALLY have a coffee addiction problem) I'm telling you that you should NOT buy into their products.

Not only are they over priced and arrogant their drinks can be beaten easily by local Pittsburgh coffee shop Mocha Marianne's.

I have been a dedicated costumer to Marianne's since I met her and tried her amazing selection of drinks and snacks, but I was recently told that my most favorite Marianne drink, Hot Apple Cider with Caramel Sauce and Whipped Cream could not stand up to Starbucks' Caramel Apple Spice drink.

So, being the reporter that I am I recently bought a Starbucks Caramel Apple Spice drink. While not being throw-up worthy the coffee tycoon was not able to breath the same air as Mocha Marianne's Hot Apple Cider. And what is with the fancy names Starbucks? Are we paying for those too?

And let me actually bring up the PRICE on this Apple Spice drink... it was $2.70 for a "short" aka small. I could get an 18 oz/large Hot Apple Cider with the caramel sauce and whipped cream for about the same at Marianne's and get better TASTE and more DRINK.

So you all decide- pay for a name and nasty drinks, or get what you really want at Mocha Marianne's on Wood St. where she gives you the tastiest drinks for less.

The Big Pittsburgh Pizza Challenge

2009-10-23T00:00:00.001-04:00

If you live downtown you understand the diliema in that title... pizza... where though??? It is almost worse than the Chinese choice. If you want pizza, where do you go?

The Top 5 Pizza Places (in Downtown)

#1 - R&B's Pizza Place (107 Smithfield) is the BEST pizza in the area, and just a short walk for Point Park and AIP - TOP WINNER

#2 - Domino's Pizza (300 6th Ave.) is the traditional big chain winner - best deal? Home Alone Special: Medium pizza, bread sticks and 12 oz pop for $13.58

#3 - Giovanni's Pizza & Pasta (123 6th St.) takes home the Stromboli Award! Try the Buffalo Chicken (and make sure you have your milk ready!)

#4 - Vocelli Pizza (524 Penn Ave.) wins the CHEAPEST college special award: XL 12-cut 1 topping pizza for, get ready for this....$8.99

#5 (but CERTAINLY not least) - Pizza Fiesta (219 Smithfield) carries cheap pizza in a great distance between AIP and Point Park

So where does pizza stand in your life? TELL ME!

Should one of these be switched around (or you have something to add)? TELL ME!

Ode to Remi

2009-10-19T11:25:00.000-04:00

Top 5 Dorm Groceries

2009-10-19T00:00:00.000-04:00

While "surfing" the web (while watching Food Network) I thought of this great idea that all college students should know. WHAT KINDS OF FOODS TO BUY FOR YOUR DORM ROOM - and what you could do with them. Now I certainly didn't do this research all on my own, I found this awesome article on the web that came up with the main items.

I'll show you the 5 that I thought most important:

1. Instant Rice - its fun its fast and its cheep! My favorite way to mix this is adding some hot sauce (yes I know, I mention hot sauce a lot - but what can I say this girl likes her spices!) You can pop in some butter and salt too.

2. Frozen Pizza - the site suggests Totino's, but I say anything cheep. And for you with only a microwave I suggest Bagel Bites or Pizza Bites (those pocket things that taste MMMM MMM good).

3. Flavored Ice - those nice long popsicles that all you have to do is throw them in the freezer. You can buy BOXES of these for cheep at the right stores.

4. Ramon Noodles - the dreaded and the revered. It's what saves you and makes you sicks. But they are cheep. To put your own style on it - throw in your favorite seasoning or maybe some veggies you grabbed from the cafeteria.

5. Canned Chicken - cheep, tasty and easy to fix up. Mix it with the rice from earlier or add it on top of your frozen pizza (with some hot sauce).

College Lifestyles Shout Out

2009-10-18T23:03:00.004-04:00

I just read this from one of MY favorite blogs (since I know mine is YOUR favorite :) ) and I just thought it deserved a shout out here too.

College Lifestyles (on my blog roll peeps!) wrote this short and simple dinner idea for Sunday nights for the upcoming fall nights. Click the link - Check it out - and continue to follow College Lifestyles! They are great girls.

College Lifestyles - Lazy Sunday Din-Din to Fall For

A CVS Dinner

2009-10-16T00:00:00.002-04:00

MICROWAVABLE NACHOS

Tostito Corn Chips

Tostito Queso

Ground Beef

Hot Sauce

Break the Ground Beef up into smaller piece in a microwavable-safe container. Nuke it till its 3/4 the way cooked. Continue to break the meat up if you need too and season it (generously) with hot sauce.

Warm up Queso.

Toss a bunch of Corn Chips in a bowl or on a plate. Pile the Meat on top of the chips. Pour warm Queso over everything.

EAT.

___________________

This is a little trick I figured out on my own actually very recently.

I was walking to CVS (downtown one for you Point Parkers/AIP-ers - or ANY CVS [or type store would work]) this past Sunday thinking "what am I to have for dinner?" I was considering this closely considering our on-campus cafe isn't open on Sundays at all (I know! Isn't that shocking?) and the hours in our cafeteria are weird.

So I'm thinking about what to make. I'm luckier than most at Point Park on-campus residents because I've got an apartment with a full kitchen - but I figure you can make this in a microwave too, so don't worry!

I walk into CVS and start shopping still considering my options. Did pizza Friday night, had left over spaghetti Saturday afternoon and chicken Saturday night. Only thing left in my freezer was ground beef. GROUND BEEF! It was my savior (and yes, if you buy in bulk and freeze it in sections its a MIRACLE!)

This whole meal costed about $5 to make and only about 10 minutes to cook. Make your own variations and post them here!

Anyways this is what I made for dinner that I think you should too.

A Steel City Tribute

2009-10-14T01:18:00.004-04:00

What would the home of the Steelers (and PENGUINS) be without Primanti Brothers? Nothing, that's what.

So I've dedicated today's post to them - the hometown heroes of the sandwich world.

They have delicious sandwiches where the whole meal is on the bun: meats, cheeses, veggies, cole slaw and fries (though if you are like me you ask for no cole slaw - yuck!). Depending which restaurant you go to they also serve pizza, wings and some other delicacies.

Also, let's not forget to give a shout out to their number one seller - Iron City Beer (for you 21+ year olds - only 2 months for me!)

Check out the whole menu HERE

Prices are very reasonable - sandwiches run between $5 and $7 and drinks are $1.50 or less!

Taste is amazing (if you haven't figured out I love this place - Pittsburgh tradition after all.) you won't steer your taste buds wrong if you take them out to Primanti Brothers.

Some of their locations are: Market Square, South Side, Oakland, Strip District, and Cherry Way - they even have a shop open up down in sunny Florida! (Could use some of that sun up here - I've been freezing my tail off lately!)

So grab a stool (or table) at your local Primanti Brothers and watch the Steelers games and eat some really fantastic cheep grub.

PRIMANTI BROTHERS RESTUARNT

Merry Moe's

2009-10-12T00:00:00.001-04:00

Ever get a craving for some burritos, tacos or nachos? Tired of hearing people say "You like Taco HELL?" Well, now we have a SECOND option. Moe's Southwest Grill.

It's Mexican prepared right before you and served with a friendly smile.

As their website says, "its a story about a man..." who opened up MOE'S!

The food is delicious (even though they have funny names) and prepared hot and ready right in front of you. It's an assembly line style restaurant where you choose what you want, order it and the person you order it from goes down the line with you as YOU decide what to put in your burrito, taco or nachos.

The whole menu can be found: here.

Price Checker! Price Checker! Moe's prices are UNbelievable. A burrito meal costs $8, and that includes a burrito made YOUR way with chips, queso (cheese/salsa) and a drink! How amazing!

So come check it out. They're located downtown in Market Square and out near The Mall at Robinson.

Visit Moe's for more details! P.S. they CATER too - so if you're thinking party, think Moe's.

Money Chart

2009-10-07T12:15:00.008-04:00

Ever curious about how much money you spend at the local restaurants I've blogged about? Check here!

Should have MICROWAVED with V8

2009-10-07T00:00:00.001-04:00

I scour the web to try to find the easiest, TASTIEST, simply-cooked meals for YOU all to make out of your dorm rooms. We've gone to Mexico with Salsa Chicken and even made Crème brûlée in the microwave. Now its DINNER TIME (or whenever you'd all feel like making this, haha).

I got this recipe from Cajun Cooking Recipes' site. Check it out for WAY more microwavable dishes!

Easy V8 Casserole

1 lb Lean ground beef
Salt and pepper to taste
1 pk Frozen mixed vegetables; 10 Oz.
1 1/2 c Noodles; uncooked
1 cn V-8 juice 12 oz.

Crumble beef into a 3 quart casserole. Salt and pepper to taste. Place frozen vegetables over meat. Sprinkle uncooked noodles over vegetables. Pour V-8 juice overall. Cover with plastic wrap. Microwave at high (100%) until noodles are tender, 18 to 19 minutes, stirring twice during cooking time. Let stand 5 minutes. Makes 4 servings.

Network of Chinese Restaurants

2009-10-06T18:10:00.002-04:00

Ever wonder just how many Chinese restaurants there were in JUST the downtown area? Well take a gander for yourself...

View Downtown Chinese Restaurants in a larger map

Extra! Extra! Eat all about it!

2009-10-05T00:00:00.001-04:00

Special occasions are sure to come up in the future where you want to take a friend out for her birthday (like my 21st coming up soon!) or a friend who performed in a concert or something. Or maybe you just got a check from your 'rents that you want to spend a little of on some GOOD food for once. So you think you'll go somewhere a little nicer than Wendy's.

Well, I suggest Max & Erma's! Great food (and an assortment of it) that have decent prices.

Check out their menu here.

Max & Erma's downtown has amazing service (friendly and smiles) and food is delivered as quickly as they can, hot and ready to devour (and you WILL want to devour it!)

Prices here are a little more expensive, hence why I suggest going here for special occasions or when you have a little more cash to spare. Anywhere you go though you can't go wrong with Max & Erma's!

Mandarin Horror

2009-10-02T00:00:00.000-04:00

So this is more for my downtown colleges, like Point Park (shout out!), and AIP.

We all like our Chinese food, right? We want it hot, fast and tasty (and for you dexterously talented people - with chopsticks!). But we want it reasonably priced with out so much attitude!

Well I'm here to tell you where NOT to go this time. This hit home a few times since I, myself, go to Point Park University and not till recently did I know there were any other decent Chinese restaurants around downtown.

Mandarin Gourmet on Wood Street is a place you do NOT want to go everyone! Even though it is a nice-looking restaurant with professional type staff I highly suggest going somewhere else (like Hong Kong Express II by AIP)!

Mandarin Gourmet is expensive like no other. A regular dinner meal will cost AT LEAST $10.50 plus more if you want an appetizer and/or soda. Compared to Hong Kong Express II which is ALSO nearby these two campuses, Gourmet is the WOREST choice out of the two.

The atmosphere is nice here but should you really be paying double the price for it? And that is were the "nice" things end. The service, while courteous, is quite rude and demanding. They EXPECT you to leave a tip in one form or another. I'll give you an example...

I went there one night with some friends. Besides being appalled at the prices and the quality of food I was disappointedly surprised when the cashier REQUIRED us all to leave tips and got thoroughly upset when one tried to not leave one. She started shouting and screaming at him to come back and leave a tip. This is NOT what service is supposed to be. Tips are OPTIONAL if the service is GOOD!

Simply put: DON'T GO TO MANDARIN GOURMET.

But I'll let you make your own choices....

Cury-licious!

2009-09-30T00:00:00.003-04:00

I have a new food obsession... INDIAN!

Though I have not completely gone out on a limb yet with this new nationality of food, I have fallen in love with their cuisine. This spicy international delight will open your taste-buds and mind to the delectable art that is Indian.

And the best place for Pittsburgh students to try it out... India Palace on Fifth Avenue.

India Palace is located in the heart of downtown where it's lunch buffet is the best around. I discovered this alcove of perfection with a friend and can not get enough of it. It is happiness on a plate.

I suggest going for the lunch buffet because you get a chance to taste all they have to offer with one low price. For the lunch buffet and a pop it only costs your wallet $9.62!!! And you get as MANY helpings as you want at the buffet!

Chicken Curry is my favorite there and their flat bread. You will want to dive into a pool of the curry and float on the bread. And the service is SO nice and the atmosphere is modern Indian.

Why wouldn't you try it then?

Located at 1 Fifth Avenue, between Liberty and Penn Avenue.

Go to Mexico in a Microwave!

2009-09-28T00:00:00.001-04:00

Late night munchie cravings? Then try this microwavable MEAL that will cook up in just about 10 minutes.

Found at our fantastic friends at About.com, you can find this recipe with comments, other dorm worthy recipes (and just about everything else you need help with - any range of topics too!)

MEXICAN CHICKEN

Prep Time: :15

Cook Time: :10

Ingredients:

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

2 tsp. taco seasoning mix
1/2 cup chunky salsa
1 cup shredded Pepper Jack cheese
2 Tbsp. sour cream
Preparation:
Sprinkle chicken with the taco seasoning mix, making sure to coat both sides of each piece. Place chicken in a square microwave safe dish and pour salsa over.

Cover and microwave on HIGH for 5-8 minutes, turning dish once halfway through cooking time. Make sure chicken is thoroughly cooked. Juices should run clear when pricked with a fork. Sprinkle chicken with cheese and return to microwave. Cook for 45 seconds until cheese is melted. Top with sour cream to serve. 2 servings

Full article at http://busycooks.about.com/od/chickenbreastrecipes/r/mexicanchicken.htm

The Revolution is ICE CREAM

2009-09-25T00:00:00.001-04:00

Forget Ben & Jerry’s, Pittsburgh’s got Dave & Andy’s!

Located in the heart of Oakland this mom and pop shoppe has got it all. Ice cream, pops, floats... any kind of ice cream mixture you could dream about.

I encountered this delectable place when I was up in Oakland with the friends to visit the Carnegie Art Museum. After we hit The "O" (from the last post!) we scoured the streets for ice cream. We thought it would be the perfect treat to end this hot day.

Low and behold we found Dave & Andy's, an old style ice cream place where ice cream reigns supreme. They have flavors from vanilla to apple pie.

When I was there I tried their root beer float (you can actually have several kinds of floats). A large cup of any flavor ice cream you want (I chose vanilla) filled with IBC Root Beer. Wow, all I can say is I fell in love, with the float, ice cream AND IBC root beer.

You can also get cones: homemade waffle cones (with an M&M at the bottom!) or sugar and cake cones. One scoop or two... Dave & Andy's serves up service with a smile (and the best ice cream in the city).

Floats cost $3.64

Waffle cones - single scoops are $3.27 and doubles are $4.30

Sugar/Cake cones - single scoops are $2.34 and doubles are $3.46

The only thing I should warn you about is seating is minimal, inside and out. But the ice cream is so good you'll want to walk around and show it off.

Located on 207 Atwood Street, you cannot beat Dave & Andy's.

The Outstanding "O"

2009-09-23T00:00:00.002-04:00

I recently visited the Carnegie Museum of Art (and Natural History - yey Dinosaurs!) for a class with some friends. After spending an educational few hours there (and buying another monkey for my growing collection) we decided to hit Oakland's food scene for some linner (lunch + dinner).

Oakland has a very diverse neighborhood of restaurants from big-name chains to small holes in the walls. All in walking distance for you Pitt students (Point Park can hop the shuttle for free and go up for the day).

The Original Hot Dog, or more affectionately called The "O", is a hot dog place where you place your order and they pull it off the grill right before your eyes. It's a hot box of smells with sticky floors but their food is pretty darn good ya'll!

The Chicken "O" Club is a delectable piece of fried chicken with lettuce, tomato, bacon and mayonnaise on a bun. Order it up with fries and a large Chocolate shake and it only costs $11. This is enough food for two (or maybe even three.)

Other delicious orders are an Original dog anyway you like with a small drink for $5.07. And their dogs are BIG people, so no worries on getting some scrawny little wiener.

HollyEats.com gives details on where The "O" is and some spicy pictures on what to look forward to.

Wait for the next posting on what came for DESSERT after we visited The "O".

CHOW Blog produces Dorm-worthy Crème Brûlée

2009-09-21T00:00:00.000-04:00

So I found this amazing site that you all might be interested in. It's called CHOW and it certainly has a section for the college crowd.

A super amazing recipe I found on this site for your dorm rooms is Microwaveable Crème Brûlée:

The whole story and the recipe is here at the ORIGINAL site: http://www.chow.com/recipes/10479

Game plan: Do not put custards in the refrigerator immediately after broiling, because the caramel tops will liquefy. Also, the timing used in this recipe is based on our averages from multiple tests. Since each microwave and toaster oven operates differently, you may need to adjust the times slightly.

This recipe was featured in our 2007 dorm cooking story.

INGREDIENTS

1 1/2 cups heavy cream
3 large egg yolks
1/4 cup granulated sugar, plus 5 tablespoons for topping
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Hot water

INSTRUCTIONS

In a large microwaveable mixing bowl, microwave cream uncovered for 3 minutes. Meanwhile, whisk together egg yolks, 1/4 cup sugar, andvanilla extract in a separate large mixing bowl until well combined.
Whisking constantly, pour heated cream in a thin stream down the side of the bowl of egg mixture. Once combined, divide custard among four 1/2-cup ramekins (or any ovenproof or microwaveable container, like a mug).
Place custards in a shallow microwaveable dish, making sure they don’t touch one another. Pour hot water between the ramekins until it reaches two-thirds of the way up the sides. Microwave until center of custards is just set, about 3 to 5 minutes. Remove from the microwave and let completely cool in the water. When cool, refrigerate covered for at least 1 hour.
Once custards have rested, heat toaster oven to broil and, once heated, sprinkle about 4 teaspoons sugar on each custard. Place custards under broiler for about 5 minutes, or until the tops arecaramelized and golden brown; watch carefully to avoid burning. Remove from oven and serve. (Alternatively, heat a conventional oven to high broil and arrange the rack in the upper third of the oven. Once the broiler is heated, sprinkle sugar on each custard and place under the broiler until tops are caramelized and golden brown, about 2 minutes; watch carefully to avoid burning.)

All Aboard the HONG KONG EXPRESS II

2009-09-18T00:00:00.000-04:00

Downtown Pittsburgh is the home of the best Chinese food you will end up CRAVING for every time:

HONG KONG EXPRESS II

529 Court Place

(Between Ross & Grant St.)

They have all the traditional favorites that one could ever want. And they give them to you in the BIGGEST portions I've ever seen (lunch and dinner for the next day ya'll!).

Also, their service is amazing. The lady in the front is SUPER nice and the coolest person you will meet. She is friendly and get your orders fast and out to you hot! She is also hilarious, I'll tell you a story.

Last time I was there, two friends and me went to HKE2 for dinner at 9:00pm (so they are open late too!) We ADORE (I'm not kidding) their fortune cookies, they are the best ones in downtown that I've had (I don’t know why but they are!). Well the lady gives us a BAG of cookies and the three of us start to play-fight over them. My friend stuffed a ton in her purse while me and the other friend fight over the rest. The lady, laughing and playing along, pushed all the rest to the friend... I was shocked!

But then the funniest thing happened. As we're all laughing hysterically she comes out and stuffs my SHIRT full of cookies!!!! Needless to say I am STILL eating fortune cookies now.

Pricing is perfect there too. For a normal meal you get charged between $5-$10 (more expensive stuff is the more intricate dinners). I suggest the Kong Po Chicken, it costs around $6 and you get fried/steamed rice or lo mien. The food is also produced fast and cooked to perfection.

I’ll warn you here, it looks like a little hole in the wall. But do not let that deter you. Hong Kong Express II has the best Chinese in downtown Pittsburgh.

I TOTALLY suggest going there or calling in (they deliver!). Tell them Liz sent you.

Hong Kong Express II: (412) 281-7288

P.S. They take debit and credit (Visa and Master card)

Please leave a tip! Their place is great and they deserve it!

The Madness that is Mocha Marianne's

2009-09-16T11:00:00.000-04:00

This is a long time overdue, but I feel the need of informing the public more to the deliciousness that is Mocha Marianne's on Wood Street!

A new location but the same Marianne; she has truly outdone herself in her drink expertise. She's been around the espresso machine a few times and only knows how to perfect your favorite drink even more.

Her new coffee shop (which is the old downtown Mexico City - which moved NEXT DOOR people!) has terrific style and perfect curb appeal.

Now onto the drinks! Not only can she top Starbucks’ espresso she puts a spin on old favorites. Her smoothies are to die for (try the Very Cherry with Chocolate Sauce! It's sinful!)

For the fall season try her Hot Apple Cider with Caramel Sauce (and/or whipped cream!) Also, her Hot Chocolate is the tastiest around and will warm your winter-chilled heart.

Now let's talk prices. Her drinks are a steal! She has the best prices ever on everything. A regular smoothie costs around $4 and the Hot Apple Cider is about $3.

Service is friendly, and Marianne really gets to know you. If you repeatedly come in she’ll start remembering your name and what your major is.

As an added bonus she isn't just a coffee shop! She has pastries and desserts and other foodstuffs: salads, some sandwiches, and produce at times! Also, she sells her teas and coffee mixes and has this crazy brand of pastas you can cook yourselves!

Just tell her Liz sent ya! :)

A Simple Slice

2009-09-14T15:04:00.000-04:00

Welcome everyone to my blog! I hope you all enjoy food as much as I do (no wonder why I am undertaking the privilege of writing this).

A Slice of the Steel City, originally started out as "Our Slice of the Steel City" a blog concept started with a friend because we continually ate out and were trying new places in Pittsburgh after classes. But now the NEW and refurbished blog will contain the same idea but so much more. Restaurant reviews that entail pricing, great menu ideas, some comparisons and atmosphere will be posted here for the COLLEGE student to use. Also recipes able to be cooked in dorm rooms and apartments will be posted up.

I willingly accept comments, ideas and even the reader's input on maybe a recipe THEY have tried out in their dorm room. It is a free food (don't we all wish we had that in college?) GUIDE to eating in the Steel City a.k.a PITTSBURGH!

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