The Vandal - Pittsburgh

We came here on a date night and it was accidentally a restaurant week in pittsburgh. I knew the menu when I booked the reservation and the options did not take into account. we've never been to the vandal. it was super tiny and intimate that I liked, but also with it a loud noise level, so they have. we sat at the bar because our other option was a tiny two-seat table in the middle of a cramped room, where my arc had met the person next to me. the bartender waited for us, and she didn't talk to us unless it was time for a drink or eat. kinda seemed as if she was in a bad mood that is strange for a bartender, as she actually conversing with people at the bar and perhaps appearing rather inviting. the kitchen is an open concept, so the four cooks pushed into a small place that evaluates the dining room, as it was not busy enough to be busy. the food was unimpressive. I was somehow shocked for restaurant week, they would think they would want to impress the people who come and try to want new places to go back too. the salmon, although well cooked, had no season and was bland. the “side dish” under the fish was mostly crispy and a few small carrots halved. again nothing that someone would wear or think of eating again. the drinks were the better part of dinner and even those were simply in order. only a disappointing dinner experience and so much we love lawrenceville, we will not try this place again with their normal menu.

They had no regular menu. nothing on the special menu was what we were looking for. unfortunately we went without order.

The duck and swordfish entrees were delicious, but the steak was chewing, which was especially for how expensive it was. service was great and the recommendations of the server were perfect. burrata with the beet was delicious and so was the tartare, but I would rather have a finer cube on the wetare personally

The Vandal was great as always. Glad I had the pork chop for the first time as the server told us it was coming off the menu for the winter menu. It was luscious! I am not a big fan of Creme Brulee, but the Vandal's version was a revelation. The service was perfect.

Pre-Fixe menu for NYE was incredible. Awesome place for a date night.