Speaking of flavor

I have come to realize that I have lived downtown for almost a year and I really haven't taken advantage of exploring the area or even going to the Strip!

Two weeks ago, a few of my sorority sisters (Pama and Asak) decided to go explore the Strip District on a Saturday morning to get some fresh produce and grab a quick lunch. I personally have only gone a handful of times (to go to the asian market to buy spam musubi ingredients- haha) and really, I should go more often. ITS SO FUN!

After a day of grocery shopping (popcorn eating) and exploring all the different markets in the Strip, we decided to stop at Enrico's for some lunch. Enrico's is a small little hole in the wall restaurant that is actually really easy to miss if you don't look carefully. It's right next to The Enrico's Biscotti Company bakery (duh), and is a great place for lunch!

Eric and I actually tried to go there the one and only time we went to the strip together but it was closed (and then we ended up going to kaya instead). I've only been to Enrico's once before, and I remember the food being so simple yet so delicious.

Located on Penn Avenue, Enrico's has a small, selective menu consisting of a fusion of italian and southern cooking. Ranging from homemade margarita pizza to homestyle grits, Enrico's menu is truly unique. Asak got the margarita pizza while Pama and I decided to explore some southern dishes and try the frogmore stew and the shrimp grits.

Although Asak preferred more cheese on her pizza, she still enjoyed it very much and could tell that the pizza was definitely homemade with fresh tomatoes. The crust was crispy while the sauce and mozzerella cheese was light and full of flavor.

Margarita Pizza

Speaking of flavor, the frogmore stew and grits had plenty of it! I must warn you though that if you don't like spicy foods and/or can't handle the heat- you should probably stick to their pizzas and other italian dishes (I hear the spaghetti and meatballs are also delicious). Me and Pama's dishes were also delicious and hearty and perfect for that rainy day. Pama's grits were creamy and rich and had a kick at the end that hits you by surprise.

Shrimp and grits

Frogmore stew

My frogmore stew was also amazing. Unlike the grits, you can see the crushed red peppers in the dish as well as in the spicy sausage so you know the heat is coming! Although it ISN'T as spicy as the grits- it still was packed with lots of heat and the potatoes and shrimp were great additions. I highly recommend the frogmore stew (if you are looking for some spice) and the pizza (if you want to keep it on the safe side).

Although it is not ideal for a fancy date, Enrico's is full of life and is a great place to stop by for a casual lunch. Also make sure to stop by their bakery next door for a yummy dessert!

With Eric being in California, I can't really experience dining in Pittsburgh with him as often but I LOVE going out with my sisters and they are great. I may even like them better than Eric!