Hyeholde Restaurant

This was the wife's first time at the Hyeholde, and probably my sixth or more (best if company is paying!). I knew she would like it, but I was waiting for a special occasion, as it's not the cheapest place in town. As we both have our birthdays around the same time we decided to splurge. First, I have to mention the ambience, which is really the main draw. Built in 1930 by a man who promised his wife a castle, when I say built, I mean he hand-built it. It's not really a castle, more like an Arts & Crafts style house with lots of rooms, levels and some castle-like features, like round towers, oak timber trusses, fireplaces and lots of wood. We'd driven by it so I could show her the outside, and she was looking forward to seeing the inside. We started with glasses of wine and appetizers. She had the special, a portion of Mahi Mahi, while I went for the sherry bisque, a Hyeholde staple since 1937. The wife was a bit concerned, as often the starter course fills her up and she can't enjoy the dinner. Not really a problem here, as portions are more continental, not huge American portions. For our main courses, she went for the Elysian Fields rack of lamb, but did substitute mushroom fricasse for the Moroccan lentils (not due to a lentil aversion, to the contrary, she did not think they would be as good as ones she has had in the Middle East). I'm a steak guy, but usually I go for filet mignon, as I prefer very little fat, and I tend to waste a lot on other cuts. I decided to go for the 12oz prime beef strip steak, as the other steak dish, the special, was described as being higher in fat content. For dessert we shared a blood orange tort and the creme brulee. So, the review. I confess I wasted some of the steak, as there was some fat and a portion was too underdone for my tastes. Maybe I should have tried the ostrich, as the server said that was a very lean cut of meat. (They also had elk, but neither of us were experimental enough to try either). The portion size was more than sufficient, as I said they could butterfly it for a more even cook. It covered my whole plate, although as a result it tended to crowd the other items, resulting in a messier appearance. The rack of lamb was very nice, and the portion size more than enough for the wife, who bagged half to bring home. Desserts were very tasty, particularly the blood orange tort, which was the special. Overall it was a very pleasant experience. The food is very good, as is the service, and the atmosphere is unlike any other in the area. That said, be prepared for some sticker shock with the bill. In my opinion, there are other places with equally good food at lower prices, such as Ditka's or Monterrey Bay, but the atmosphere is completely different. That is partly what you're paying for, and if you accept that going in, you won't be disappointed. It's hard to say if Hyeholde is a great value, as much of what you pay for is subjective. How much is the atmosphere worth? Only each person can say for themselves.

Hyeholde provided us a table in the back that was semi private, rustic, and our party of four really enjoyed it. We ordered from a special Valentines menu which was six course, and impeccably served. The food was good, but food the only reason this establishment wasn’t rated a five. I would definitely come here again. The Maitré D did ask us nicely that they had to reseat the table at the end, which was a weird dismount. That said, they were busy. Bottles of wine and dessert was had.

I have eaten at Hyeholde Restaurant a couple of times in the past several years. Previously, I ate inside the main dining room. During my most recent visit, I ate outside on a blanket for a private picnic with my husband. The food tasted delicious, and we greatly enjoyed the castle-like atmosphere. The employees' service was very professional.

My husband and I HIGHLY recommend to dine at the Hyeholde. We got married there 8 years ago and every time we go back the food just keeps getting better and better. The service is top notch. The location is beautiful. And grounds of the Hyeholde are so serene and relaxing. Each year we go we always say “this is the best food we have ever had.” If you like history this is the place to go. The Hyeholde is a must for the Pittsburgh area. We actually drive over an hour just to get there. Please go and enjoy the entire experience! You’ll be SO GLAD you did!!!!

We had our wedding reception here. The location is gorgeous! Both the grounds and the building are breathtaking. You would never know it was so close to the airport. Everyone we interacted with there was professional and friendly. Highly recommend for an event or a nice dinner out. Can I give it six stars??