Pittsburgh — or “Steel City,” thanks to its industrial roots dating back to the 1700s — is thriving and stronger than ever with more than 86,000 students from all over the world calling it home. International students attending nearby Robert Morris University or Washington & Jefferson College will find a wide variety of authentic ethnic eateries, grocers, shops, community centers, and other businesses peppered among the city’s 90 distinct neighborhoods.
Thanks to the wide variety of cultural businesses, international students combatting homesickness won’t have to go far to feel at home.
Pittsburgh’s International Neighborhoods
Though there are ethnic businesses throughout the city, the neighborhoods of Squirrel Hill, the Strip District, and North Oakland are particularly known for their diversity and cultural cuisines. Chinese, Indian, and Latin American students will find familiar flavors at their restaurants, shops, and markets. Shadyside neighborhood is also worth a visit for a variety of ethnic food, including Indian, Thai, Japanese, Mexican, and others.
Squirrel Hill
Located in the East End, the Squirrel Hill neighborhood (which includes Squirrel Hill North and Squirrel Hill South) boasts more than 1,100 acres of public parks, the Squirrel Hill Night Market (inspired by Asian pop-up night markets), and the popular Lunar New Year PGH.
The neighborhood has a strong Jewish community, but Chinese and Latin international students will also find familiar scents, sounds, and goods in shops and eateries along Forbes, Murray, and Forward avenues. The eclectic mix of cultures is what makes this neighborhood unique and a great place to find a little piece of a far-off home.
Squirrel Hill is constantly changing, but here are a few spots to check out:
Chinese Restaurants and Markets
Chengdu Gourmet: Sichuan restaurant
Jian’s Kitchen: Restaurant with a focus on Northeastern Chinese cuisine
Panda Supermarket: Large Asian grocery store
Pink Box Bakery: Asian baked goods
Taiwanese Bistro Cafe 33: Serving Taiwanese cuisine
Latin Restaurants and Shops
The Colombian Spot: Colombian restaurant
La Feria: Peruvian restaurant with art on display
Paititi inti: South American goods and souvenirs
The Strip District
Spanning one-half square mile that runs along the Allegheny River, the Strip District is the place to go to find food from around the world. The neighborhood’s converted warehouses and historical buildings are now home to international eateries and specialty shops. Walk along Smallman Street and Penn Avenue to find a wide variety of ethnic grocers, as well as produce stands and sidewalk vendors. International students are certain to find familiar flavors in this neighborhood.
Top international spots in the Strip District:
Asian Restaurants and Markets
Little Bangkok: Thai restaurant
Sambok Korean: Market with Korean ingredients
WFH Oriental Food Market: Asian grocer
Latin Restaurants and Markets
Reyna Foods: Latin grocery store
North Oakland
Located within Pittsburgh’s Oakland area, North Oakland spans all of Craig Street and falls between Neville and Bouquet streets. The neighborhood has a variety of small, cozy eateries serving Indian cuisine, as well as cuisines from other cultures. Indian students will find two markets that sell authentic ingredients, snacks, and spices.
Best places to go in North Oakland for Indian flavors:
All India Restaurant: North and South Indian Eatery
Bombay Market: Indian grocery store
Chaai and Chaatwala: Indian takeaway restaurant
Kohli’s Indian Imports: Grocery store and import shop
International Events
As the second-largest city in Pennsylvania, Pittsburgh hosts many international festivals and holiday celebrations throughout the year. Some not-to-be-missed cultural events include:
Pittsburgh Chinese Cultural Festival
International Community Centers
Though international students can find a taste of home throughout Pittsburgh, a cultural center can provide a sense of community. Many host a variety of events and activities to help people acclimate to and engage with the American culture. Some centers to check out include:
The Indian Cultural Association of Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh Metropolitan Area Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (PMAHCC)
Feel at Home Without Leaving Campus
Robert Morris University
Just 16 miles from downtown Pittsburgh, Robert Morris University invites students from all over the world to study on its 230-acre campus. Spring 2023 welcomed international students from 27 countries.
The Center for Global Engagement (CGE) provides support for incoming international students, as well as offers “Global SET programs like Global Ambassadors, Conservation Exchange Partners, and the Global Village Living Learning Community.”
Thanks to more than 100 on-campus student clubs and organizations, students can find shared cultures or interests including the Asian American Association, Black Student Union, and Indian Student Club, among many others.
Washington & Jefferson College
Located on 65 acres in a small town just 45 minutes outside the city, Washington & Jefferson College is an ideal place for international students to live and study. The liberal arts college has been educating world leaders since 1781, and is ranked #48 in Best Value Schools by U.S. News & World Report (2024).
The Office of Global Education is a great resource for “country to college support,” and also encourages students to participate in college life through activities, sports, events, and excursions throughout the semester.
Student clubs and organizations are another great place for international students to find support while navigating their new surroundings, including the International Club, Asian Culture Association, LatinX Culture Association, Sister 2 Sister, and others.
Finding a Home Away from Home
With culturally diverse neighborhoods and ethnic businesses abundant throughout the city, Pittsburgh provides international students with a feeling of home. Head to western Pennsylvania for a prestigious degree — and an unforgettable study in the US experience.
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