Cafe Zinho
Located at 238 Spahr St, Pittsburgh, PA 15232, Cafe Zinho is a charming and cozy restaurant that offers a unique dining experience you won’t forget. Whether you're a local resident or just passing through, this restaurant is an ideal spot to enjoy delicious meals, unwind with friends, or indulge in a romantic dinner. Let’s take a closer look at what makes Cafe Zinho stand out and why it should be at the top of your list the next time you're craving a meal in Pittsburgh.
A Culinary Journey at Cafe Zinho
At Cafe Zinho, every dish is crafted with love and care. The restaurant specializes in a fusion of Mediterranean and European-inspired cuisine, featuring a blend of bold flavors and fresh ingredients. From their signature seafood dishes to the hearty and flavorful steaks, there’s something to satisfy every palate.
One of the restaurant's standout features is its commitment to using only the finest, locally sourced ingredients. You’ll taste the difference in every bite, whether it's the fresh herbs, seasonal vegetables, or hand-picked seafood. Each dish is designed not only to fill you up but to leave a lasting impression.
A Cozy and Inviting Atmosphere
Walking into Cafe Zinho, you’re immediately greeted by a warm and inviting atmosphere. The interior features rustic yet contemporary decor, combining soft lighting with comfortable seating. Whether you’re here for a casual meal or a special celebration, the ambiance is perfect for every occasion.
The restaurant’s intimate size adds to its charm, making it an ideal venue for both small gatherings and private dining. Cafe Zinho offers an atmosphere that’s perfect for long conversations over a glass of wine or a cozy dinner with friends and family.
Impressive Menu Options
Cafe Zinho takes pride in offering a menu that caters to a wide range of dietary preferences. Whether you're a vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free, the restaurant provides plenty of options that ensure everyone leaves satisfied. Some of the popular dishes that frequent diners rave about include:
- Grilled Octopus: A Mediterranean favorite, this dish features perfectly grilled octopus served with a rich, lemony sauce and a side of crisp vegetables.
- Braised Short Ribs: Tender and flavorful, these short ribs are slow-cooked to perfection and served with mashed potatoes and seasonal vegetables.
- Vegetarian Paella: Packed with a colorful array of vegetables, this dish is a favorite among those looking for a delicious yet plant-based option.
Additionally, their extensive wine list and cocktail menu complement each meal perfectly. Whether you’re sipping a glass of crisp white wine or enjoying a handcrafted cocktail, Cafe Zinho has just the drink to accompany your meal.
Exceptional Service and Attention to Detail
One of the most praised aspects of Cafe Zinho is its exceptional customer service. From the moment you walk in, the staff makes sure that you feel like part of the family. They’re attentive without being intrusive and always ready to offer suggestions based on your preferences. It’s clear that the team is dedicated to creating a memorable dining experience for every guest.
The attention to detail extends beyond the food and service. The restaurant’s atmosphere, lighting, and overall aesthetic contribute to a sense of care and passion that makes dining here a unique experience.
Reviews
Superb small restaurant. I went with a group and ever dish was excellently prepared and tasted amazing. Outside & inside dining with a small private room in the back which seats 4. parking may be a bit difficult, but worth walking a bit if need be.
A hidden gem in Shadyside! Very quaint, cozy and off the main path, so you get the neighborhood feel. We had the perfect night to enjoy our dinner outside. We got mussels to start and then ravioli and langostino cakes. Each dish was delicious and the sauces made them even better! This spot is BYOB & cash only. Definitely recommend calling to make reservations, it gets busy! They don't post much on social media or have a website so you don't know what the menu will be, but we were not disappointed with what it was!
Just love the quaint and cozy feel of the restaurant. The have some tables out front and along the side of the building for outdoor dining. We sat at one of the tables at the side of the building. It is a slender space and the table is next to a fence covered in green vegetation, so it is almost like you are there by yourself. Plus it is a no corkage fee BYOB. It is cash or check only. Our waitress was great. There when she should have been to check on us and helpful in giving the menu and descriptions. The menu us primarily Portuguese with quit a few seafood options. We shared a wonderful roasted beet salad and some tasty bread was served with it. The portobello mushroom ravioli and the langoustine cakes were both great choices for our entree. Deserts looked and sounded great but we did not have room, next time.
Nothing has changed in the past two years at Cafe Zinho. It's a funky, eclectic place, with outstanding food and service, cash only, BYOB (no corkage). The menu is Portuguese primarily, always well executed. We shared the beet salad, and selected the salmon and langostino cake mains. There's cornbread to start and an interesting assortment of vegetables served with the entrees. We also splurged on the chocolate soufflé desert. Cafe Zinho is a local treasure.
Another local gem that has been around for awhile. I had the chicken panne and it was delicious. We had an early reservation which was good cause it was very busy when we were leaving.