By Carrie Nolan-Robson | Northside North Shore Chamber of Commerce Executive Director

*Editor’s note: Due to a copy and paste error, the online edition of this column is different from the version that appeared in print. This version is considered the correct iteration.

Pittsburgh foodies and neighborhood enthusiasts have a new reason to explore the city’s vibrant Northside: ‘Burgh Bits and Bites Food Tours is unveiling an exciting new culinary and cultural experience along Western Avenue, in collaboration with the Northside | North Shore Chamber of Commerce.

The tour made its debut with a soft launch and ribbon cutting on May 30, offering guests a taste of the Northside’s eclectic charm. The event celebrates the official kickoff of the Western Avenue Food Tour, which will run once monthly on Fridays from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. starting this summer.

As the Chamber looks to grow its Northside Cultural Collaborative — a 501(c)3 focusing on tourism, culture and dining — Executive Director Carrie Nolan-Robson reached out to Sylvia Emmenger-McCoy, owner of ‘Burgh Bits and Bites, to build a partnership that highlights the richness of the Northside. Together the two focused on Chamber members who are a part of this industry and what area of the Northside had the most concentration of history and food combined. They targeted three areas of the Northside, but ideally Western Avenue was determined to be the first tour to launch. The vision was to build this tour in preparation for the Northside | North Shore’s national debut in April 2026, with the NFL Draft coming to Pittsburgh and then to also highlight the America250PA celebration that will draw visitors all summer long across the state for America’s birthday on July 4, 2026. We know the North Shore establishments would see high volumes of foot traffic during the NFL Draft, but also offering other establishments within walking distance of the event, the opportunity to prosper as well, aligned with the Chamber’s mission of connecting, promoting, and supporting the businesses within the footprint of the Northside.

This two-hour walking tour promises a flavorful mix of bites, local history bits, and beverages highlighting a dozen diverse stops.

The tour will kick off at Babb Insurance, a historic fixture on Ridge Avenue. Founded in 1895, Babb has deep roots in the Northside, offering a glimpse into the neighborhood’s longstanding business legacy.

From there, guests will head to Wise County Biscuits, where Southern comfort meets Pittsburgh charm. Known for their hearty biscuit sandwiches and scratch-made sides, this stop brings a taste of Appalachia to the heart of Western Avenue.

Just a short walk away is the Gertrude Stein House, the former childhood home of the famed writer and art patron. It’s a stop that blends cultural history with architectural beauty, connecting visitors to Pittsburgh’s literary past.

The next bite comes courtesy of Fry Bar, where guests can indulge in gourmet loaded fries and crispy comfort food with creative toppings that reflect the city’s bold food scene.

At the intersection of Western Avenue and Rope Way, guests will encounter a site steeped in Pittsburgh’s industrial heritage. This location was once home to the Irwin family’s rope factory, established in the early 19th century. The factory featured a “ropewalk” — a long, straight path where hemp was laid and twisted into rope — a critical component in rope manufacturing of the era. The Irwin rope factory became one of Pittsburgh’s first major industries, according to an article by WESA titled “Rope Magnate Mary Irwin Operated One Of The City’s Largest Industries,” contributing significantly to the city’s early economic development.

Today, the area has transformed into a vibrant part of the Allegheny West neighborhood, known for its beautiful Victorian architecture and local businesses. The Rope Way boutique, situated here, offers visitors a chance to explore unique local crafts and goods, reflecting the neighborhood’s blend of historical significance and contemporary culture.

Health-conscious visitors will love the next stop at Live Fresh Juicery, offering cold-pressed juices, smoothies, and wellness shots. The business was founded with a mission to promote healthy living in underserved communities.

Then it’s off to Colombino, a charming café serving up Latin-inspired flavors and house-made empanadas. It is a flavorful nod to Pittsburgh’s growing international food culture.

Guests will satisfy their sweet tooth at Happy Day Dessert Factory, a family-run dessert shop known for its creamy ice cream, inventive flavors, and welcoming atmosphere.

Giorgio’s Pizza adds a classic touch to the tour, serving up slices from a neighborhood pizzeria that’s been a staple for locals craving authentic, oven-baked pies.

Next, visitors will step into Pandora 7, an elegant boutique and gift shop offering curated fashion and home décor with a creative flair that reflects the spirit of the Northside.

After the final tour stop, guests are encouraged to kick off their weekend with a happy hour visit to relax and toast the day at one of two adult-friendly venues: Refucilo Winery, known for its Argentinian wines and cozy tasting room, or Late Addition Brewing and Blending, a local craft brewery with a rotating tap of inventive beers perfect for a late afternoon wind-down.

This new experience comes on the heels of national recognition for ‘Burgh Bits and Bites, which was recently ranked #8 in the country on USA Today’s list of the 10 Best Food Tours, standing proudly alongside tours from Los Angeles, Las Vegas, and Sedona.

Owner Sylvia Emmenger-McCoy expressed her gratitude and excitement: “We are thrilled to be featured as a USA Today top 10 US food tour. A special thank you to our outstanding team and to all who voted for us.”

The company’s mission goes beyond food and fun. As a recognized Tourism Cares partner, ‘Burgh Bits and Bites is committed to responsible travel and community engagement.

“By engaging travel companies and professionals in meaningful travel, we can create an industry that benefits host communities, protects cultural and environmental assets, and inspires guests to travel in a deeper, more responsible way,” added Emmenger-McCoy. 

Tourism Cares is a nonprofit organization that brings together the travel and tourism industry to advance social, environmental, and economic sustainability. Founded in 2003, the organization facilitates meaningful travel experiences and industry-wide partnerships that focus on giving back to the communities that tourism touches.

The Chamber is so proud to partner with ‘Burgh Bits and Bites to offer to the community a showcase of our heritage and cultural diversity. The official tour will launch June 27, so get your tickets now to be one of the first to experience this culinary and cultural journey. Registration for the Western Avenue tour can be found at burghfoodtour.com.

With delicious stops, rich storytelling, and a strong commitment to community impact, the Western Avenue tour is shaping up to be a must-do for locals and visitors alike.