Located in the vibrant Station Square of Pittsburgh, the Gandy Dancer Saloon offers a unique dining and drinking experience steeped in history. Adjacent to the renowned Grand Concourse restaurant, this saloon provides a more casual yet equally captivating atmosphere, drawing both locals and visitors alike. The name itself, “Gandy Dancer,” evokes images of railroad workers, connecting to Pittsburgh’s rich industrial past and its pivotal role in American rail travel. For anyone seeking a memorable experience in a Pittsburgh landmark, the Gandy Dancer is a must-visit destination.
Gandy Dancer Saloon Logo Pittsburgh at Station Square
A Pittsburgh Landmark in Station Square
The Gandy Dancer Saloon is perfectly situated at 100 West Station Square Dr, Pittsburgh, PA 15219, making it easily accessible and a central point within the bustling Station Square. Its location along the Monongahela River adds to its charm, offering scenic views and a lively atmosphere. Sharing its address and historical roots with the Grand Concourse, the Saloon benefits from the grandeur of the former Pittsburgh & Lake Erie Railroad Station. This connection provides guests with a sense of stepping back in time while enjoying contemporary dining and drinks. For those navigating Pittsburgh or planning a visit, the Gandy Dancer’s location is both convenient and iconic.
Step Back in Time: History of the Gandy Dancer Saloon
The story of the Gandy Dancer Saloon is intrinsically linked to the history of rail travel in the United States and Pittsburgh’s significant role in it. In the early 20th century, Pittsburgh emerged as a major national city, necessitating a grand railroad station to connect it to the Eastern Seaboard. The Pittsburgh & Lake Erie Railroad Station, constructed in 1901, was a testament to this booming era, designed with opulence and attention to detail. Features like vibrant brass, rich mahogany, and ornate marble, topped with soaring stained-glass cathedral ceilings, conveyed the station’s importance and luxury.
The Gandy Dancer Saloon, while established later, draws inspiration from this historical context. The term “Gandy Dancer” itself is a nod to the railroad workers who maintained the tracks, playing a vital, though often unseen, role in the golden age of rail. This name and the saloon’s location within the restored station serve as a tribute to this era. Since opening its doors in 1978, alongside the Grand Concourse, the Gandy Dancer has continued to offer a high standard of hospitality in Pittsburgh, preserving the historical essence of its location while providing a modern saloon experience.
Menu Highlights: From Happy Hour to Saloon Classics
The Gandy Dancer Saloon boasts a diverse menu catering to various tastes, with options ranging from happy hour specials to classic saloon fare. Guests can enjoy the Happy Hour promotions in the bar/lounge and patio areas, Monday to Friday from 3:30 PM to 6:30 PM. The Happy Hour menu features attractive deals on both food and drinks, including $8 appetizers like Shiitake Dumplings, Crispy Calamari, and Raw Oysters, and $10 options such as Crab & Shrimp Quesadilla and Island Fish Tacos. For heartier appetites during happy hour, there are also $12 and $15 selections like Crab BLT Sliders, Bacon Cheeseburger, Lobster Mac & Cheese, Prime Rib Sliders and New England Seafood Roll. Drink specials include $7 Cocktails and Premium Spirits, and deals on select wines and draft beers.
Beyond Happy Hour, the Saloon menu extends to encompass classic pastas and handhelds, and notably, the entire Grand Concourse menu is also available in the Gandy Dancer Saloon (except during Sunday Brunch). Saloon Pasta specialties include Linguine With Clam Sauce, Shrimp & Artichoke Pasta, Pasta Diablo, and Linguine Primavera, ranging from $15 to $18.50. Saloon Handhelds feature options like the New England Seafood Roll, Bacon Cheddar Burger, Crab Cake Sandwich, and Island Fish Tacos, priced from $16.50 to $21. This extensive menu ensures that visitors to the Gandy Dancer Saloon can find something to suit their preferences, whether for a light snack, happy hour drinks, or a full meal.
Accolades and Recognition
Both the Grand Concourse and, by association, the Gandy Dancer Saloon have received numerous accolades over the years, highlighting their commitment to quality and service. These awards reflect the dedication of the team and enhance the reputation of the establishment as a top dining destination in Pittsburgh. Notable accolades include being named Best Dessert at Savour Pittsburgh, Open Table Diner’s Choice Award for Best Ambiance, TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence Recipient, Named Best Brunch in Pittsburgh by Pittsburgh Magazine, Named Top 100 Brunch on Open Table, and Named Best Breakfast at Savour Pittsburgh. These consistent honors underscore the high standards maintained at the Gandy Dancer Saloon and Grand Concourse, making them trusted choices for diners.
Visit the Gandy Dancer Saloon: Hours, Location, and More
To experience the Gandy Dancer Saloon firsthand, plan your visit to 100 West Station Square Dr, Pittsburgh, PA 15219. They can be contacted at (412) 261-1717 for inquiries or reservations. The operating hours are Sunday from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM, Monday to Thursday from 11:30 AM to 9:00 PM, and Friday to Saturday from 11:30 AM to 9:30 PM. For a detailed look at the menu options, you can View Saloon Menu. Directions are easily accessible via Get Directions.
The Gandy Dancer Saloon in Pittsburgh offers more than just a meal; it’s an experience rooted in history and complemented by a contemporary and inviting atmosphere. Whether you are a local Pittsburgh resident or a visitor to the city, the Gandy Dancer Saloon provides a unique glimpse into Pittsburgh’s past while offering a delightful present-day dining and social experience. Make sure to include this Station Square gem in your Pittsburgh itinerary.
