Last week this time, was my very first time in the great city of Pittsburgh. Now that I’ve experience it first hand, I can definitely say that Pittsburgh is indeed great. Fresh off the plane, after checking into my hotel, I headed to Smallman Galley for lunch with a few fellow writers. This place was the perfect introduction to the culinary scene in Pittsburgh. It definitely set the mood to my entire stay there.
Smallman Galley is a food hall style incubator for undiscovered local chefs. Every 18 month, 4 new aspiring restaurant owning chefs are housed in Smallman Galley to receive a one-of-a-kind training experience. Here they fine tune their business and culinary capabilities.
Banhmilicious ~ Chef Hoa Le
Modern Vietnamese
Inspired by the cuisine of her homeland, Chef Hoa Le brings a taste of Vietnam to Pittsburgh. Her menu is centered around healthy, organic, and locally sourced ingredients. This was beautifully reflected in her Chicken Noodle Soup. The broth was perfectly seasoned with an added spiciness to make it quite interesting. I really enjoyed it.
Instagram @bmiliciouspgh
Facebook @Banhmilicious
Colonia ~ Chef Jesse Barlass
Latin American Cuisine
Featuring the beautiful cuisines of Latin America, Chef Barlass introduced the us to his Pupusa. A Pupusa is a thick corn tortilla stuffed with a savory filling. It reminded me of a tamale, but in a patty form. It was filled with pulled pork and topped with fermented slaw, shaved jalapenos, and whey salsa. I appreciated the uniqueness in this dish. 
Hand Forged Pizza
Chef Tolman presented his signature White Pizza to us and I was quite excited. The aroma coming off of it was to die for. I’ve had some amazing pizzas in my lifetime, but I can definitely say this one is definitely in my top 3. Cooked in cast iron pans, the crust is crisp, airy, and delicious. Nearly perfect. Described as Detroit Style Pizza, the toppings were fresh and the seasoned thoughtfully.
Instagram: @IronBornPizza
Facebook @IronbornPgh
Brunoise ~ Chef Ryan Peters
Progressive American Cuisine
Chef, you had me at s’mores! This version of the classic treat will have you plotting your next visit to the Smallman Galley for another taste. It’s beautifully presented with a rich flexible chocolate beneath an adornment of smoked meringue. Beside it a mound of graham cracker crumbs topped with a bit of ice cream. This dessert is everything.
Instagram @brunoisepgh
Facebook @brunoisepgh
From the Bar
Sandlot Themed Cocktails
Imagine how excited I was when we were told that Smallman Galley’s cocktail menu is inspired by the movie The Sandlot. AND the menu is presented in a Sandlot VHS clamshell. Very cool. These amazing craft cocktails are not only fun but unique. I had the opportunity to try two selections from the menu, the Wendy Peppercorn and The Great Spambino. Both well deserved of several thumbs up.
#LovePGH #ShanaWasHere
*I receive this experience complimentary as part of a press trip with Visit Pittsburgh. All opinions are that of my own.
Shana Was Here 
Lucky you! Looks like an amazing restaurant!