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It is a must-see for tourists and locals alike. It’s surrounded by shops and restaurants and boasts year-round activities in the center of the space. From summer concerts to Christmas Village. With a rich history, Market Square certainly has something for everyone in the family.
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Market Square is a public space located in Downtown Pittsburgh at the intersection of Forbes Avenue (originally named Diamond Way in colonial times) and Market Street. The square was home to the first courthouse, first jail (both in 1795) and the first newspaper (1786).
George Woods and Thomas Vickroy, created the city block plan for Pittsburgh. Market Square was created in 1784. It was known originally as “Diamond Square” or “Diamond Market” for the Scotch-Irish idiom “Diamond” representing a public commons or square.
By the mid-1790s, the first Allegheny County Courthouse was constructed in Market Square. It was occupied until 1836.
On July 8, 1794, the newly formed “borough” of Pittsburgh established a “Public Market House and Stalls” on the eastern half of the square. It also was the site of the original city hall for the borough and then city of Pittsburgh until May 22, 1872
Restaurants
Restaurants in Market Square
Tap into the history of Market Square by visiting Nicholas Coffee & Tea Co., an institution since 1919 or the iconic Primanti Bros., serving the ultimate Pittsburgh sandwich stacked with french fries and coleslaw since 1933.
Pizzaiolo Primo serves handmade pizzas and pasta and if you’re looking for craft beer, City Works Eatery & Pour House has over 90 selections on tap. Stop into Market St. Grocery for fresh breakfast, lunch and dinner or to shop a range of local food products and goods. Looking for a sweet treat? Be sure to check out Millie’s Homemade Ice Cream using only local and real ingredients to bring you delicious and flavorful ice cream, including vegan and dairy-free options!
On the outskirts of Market Square is the Harris Grill where Tuesday is Bacon Night, and free bacon is served at the bar. Many of the Market Square restaurants turn into a hub for nightlife, including Las Velas, which turns into one of the best dancing destinations in the city during the weekends.
5 Restaurants Near Market Square | OpenTablehttps://www.opentable.com › landmark › restaurants-ne…1. Pizzaiolo Primo-Pittsburgh · 2. The Market Exchange · 3. Ruth’s Chris Steak House – Pittsburgh · 4. McCormick & Schmick’s Seafood – Pittsburgh Downtown · 5.