From the glow of the neon sign outside the restaurant, the Mediterranean Grill doesn't catch the eye right away, but this Squirrel Hill eatery is a true diamond in the rough. Inside the Mediterranean Grill you'll be greeted by an intimate downstairs dining room classically decorated with mirrors, iron wall art and plants. The menu is made up predominately of Lebanese fare and features a variety of options such as hummus, shish kabob, falafel wraps, filet mignon and baklava. Along with the wide menu selections and prices, the Mediterranean Grill is inviting for patrons of all budgets and tastes. - Corinne Kenna

When going to Taste of India for the first time, it is helpful to know that it is across the street from the new UPMC Children's Hospital and has a green awning. The cozy dining room has recently been updated with a white chair rail, maroon walls and spotlighted traditional Indian paintings. The servers are polite and unobtrusive; they will season any order to taste and are quick to refill empty water goblets. There are extensive choices of vegetable, chicken, shrimp, lamb and beef dishes. Start with samosas, have naan with the entrée to temper the heat and finish with chai. It is the perfect place to go for Tandoori Chicken and Navratan Curry. - Corinne Kenna

The trendy strip of restaurants, shops and pubs on Walnut Street is always abuzz. Yet above Ann Taylor, in the Hartwell Building, My Thai is a serene and romantic alcove apart from the bustle. Draped metallic fabric decorates the ceiling and complements the gold and black tables. A wall of windows overlooks South Aiken Street at the intersection of Walnut. Even for those who are not accustomed to Thai cuisine, the menu makes it easy to order a suitable dish. The spice level of each option is clearly identified. From Pad Thai to Pepper Steak, the menu includes something for everyone. This is a great restaurant for an introduction to the tastes of Thai food. - Corinne N. M. Kenna

Bootleggers is located on the corner of Bates Street and Semple Street in the southern section of The University of Pittsburgh campus. It is usually filled with college students, and is busy even on weeknights. In fact, Wednesday is an especially busy night because it is karaoke night and Thursday brings crowds in for the wings. There are two main rooms. One is made up of a huge bar with surrounding seating. The second room is outfitted for billiards and darts. They serve inexpensive bar food (fries, wings, etc), drinks, and are well-known for their specials such as the Saturday night $1 well drinks from 9p-11p. It is a great place to go for a motley mix of people. -Corinne N. M. Kenna

Fuel and Fuddle is one of the more interesting bar restaurants in Oakland. It exudes a lot of energy, and the atmosphere is very hip. On the wall, a huge chalkboard lists the available beers. The beer selection changes often and to promote experimentation, they have plaques on the walls honoring those who have consumed obscene amounts. Many of the meals are made in the open-fire brick oven and come with a side of skinny fries, a mix of potato and sweet potato fries. The menu is amusing offering entrees and appetizers with names like, Big Fat Jerk and Rosemary's Breasts. The music is not too loud to talk but too loud for romance. Go with a group of friends and enjoy the scene. -Corinne N. M. Kenna

This lunch spot is easy to find. Located at 6th Street, Olive or Twist is apt for a lingering drink or a romantic evening. Tasty appetizers, tenderloin filets, salads, lobster ravioli, tilapia, and interesting sandwiches make mealtimes highly satisfying. The muted lighting, minimalistic decor, and a fun-loving crowd are also appealing. Walk in during the Happy Hour after 5p for a wide selection of wines and martinis. Private parties are welcome. It is open from Monday to Friday 11,30 am onwards, and on Saturdays from 5pm. 

Buca di beppo offers traditional Italian cuisine with some innovative inputs. The portions are really large and more than enough for groups. The menu includes Neapolitan pizza, fresh salmon with pesto, penne Arrabbiata, spaghetti marinara and more. A wholesome beverage list with different kinds of wines and martinis topping the chart is also available. If you want to gift your foodie friend something special then go for the gift cards they offer.

The Café transforms food into an art form, with unique soups and salads, delectable specialties, and divine desserts. The menu varies according to the season, as it uses herbs and vegetables grown on-site. This charming eatery has twice won the 'best lunch' honor, awarded by the Pittsburgh Magazine. This joint is quite possibly Pittsburgh's best kept secret.

Piccolo Forno is a modest Italian eatery located at Butler Street along the 38th Street intersection. A sparse set of toppings accompany the pizzas with anything slightly indulgent being firmly avoided. Despite the number of dishes on the menu being less, few complains can be had about the food on offer. Along with the pizzas, the salads, sandwiches and paninis also come highly recommended. Top the meal off with some nice tiramisu.

Rated as the number one burger by the Washington Magazine, Five Guys is a famous burger chain across US. The cheese burgers and French fries made in peanut oil is very addictive! Stuff your burger with as much topping you want with no extra charge. Really cool music is played at this joint. Prices of these generously sized burgers are very affordable. Cajun Fries are a must try. Enjoy your burgers and fries with chilled coke which can refilled again and again without any extra cost!