The Original Oyster House

"A Pittsburgh TRADITION SINCE 1870"

At 137 years old, The Original Oyster House is Pittsburgh's oldest bar and restaurant. Located in the heart of downtowns Market Square, near the courts and just across the river from the new stadiums, the unique tavern has been designated by the Pittsburgh History and Landmarks Foundation. The present owner, Louis J. Grippo, purchased the Oyster House in 1970. He is only the fifth proprietor of the tavern which has attracted politcians, judges, attorneys, sports figures, entertainers, newsmen and hundreds of thousands of others as customers. Since purchasing the Oyster House, Grippo has completely refurbished the exterior and interior, retaining and enhancing the best features of the bar's illustious past. When the Oyster House first opened in 1870, oysters sold for a penny and beer was 10 cents a glass. The enormous fish sandwiches, which require a special bun, were introduced by Louis Americus, who was the proprietor from 1916 to 1970. The delicous coating on the fish and oysters, a recipe of Mrs. Americus, is still utilized today by the kitchen staff. Mr. Americus was also the originator of much of the interior decor. He attended all the Miss America Pageants, returning each time with pictures of the contestants which he used to grace the wall of the tavern. It has been a favorite location for the movie industry having had 25 films shot at the location. The most recent of which are " Innocent Blood" starring Bob Loggia, "Three Rivers" starring Bruce willis, "Cemetery Club" satrring Danny Aiello and the most famous film " Night of the living Dead" written and directed by local Pittsburgh talent. It is the oldest union bar in the city, and even during the Prohibition when only buttermilk and soda were sold, union bartenders were on the job at the Oyster House. When in the "Steel City" don't miss The Original Oyster House!!