"We wanted to try a new place and came across the Pittsburgh Magazine review of Legume. This is a fantastic find and was a fantastic experience from beginning to end.
The service is among the best I've ever had. We arrived early, but were seated immediately. There was never a wait for anything, but it wasn't rushed. Our server was the perfect mix of attentiveness and transparency.
Everything was incredibly good. We had the raclette appetizer (I'd hold the gherkins and just stick to bread next time), entrees, a side of the sweet potatoes (amazing) and dessert. You have to try the carrot cake with cream cheese ice cream. They serve press coffee, too, which is a perfect end.
A definite keeper."
Dined on 03/08/2013
2012
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies
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"One of Pittsburgh's finest. The owners, with their capable staff, source, butcher, cure, cook, bake, pickle and can. The food is memorable, sometimes surprising, and always, always better than good. Suggest a cocktail at Butterjoint, just walk through the arch, before dinner where the buzz is terrific, service brisk and drinks both classic and creative."
Dined on 01/31/2013
2011
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, late-night find, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, special occasion, hot spot
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"Legume did not disappoint. Bartenders & Server - Great Cocktails / very knowledgeable about the food and wine list. Pork & pistachio pate - tender and savory.
Followed by an excellent Wild Dandelion Green salad topped with a fried duck egg & pork jowl bacon vinaigrette the savory sweet cured bacon was a great contrast to the bitter greens.
Entree we enjoyed the Goat which was served three ways, braised, sliced and as a sausage complimented with greens, rice and a sweet Rhubarb Chutney. The braised goat was perfect, melt in your mouth short-rib texture & made a great vehicle for the sweet rhubarb. The sliced meat was tender like nice center cut of steak... the kitchen really took my opinion of goat as a main course feature up a notch!"
Dined on 5/10/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, vibrant bar scene, notable wine list, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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"My fiance and I love Legume. We enjoyed everything from the wonderful service, to the ambience, which was soothing and inviting, to our meals, which were flawless. The portion sizes were perfect. I had the salmon which melted in my mouth and my fiance had the farmers cheese ravioli with nettle pesto, mushrooms and pea shoots. It was scrumptious! For dessert we ordered baked Alaska (which I've never even heard of). What a nice surprise! They use homemade vanilla bean and pistachio ice cream along with the rest of its usual ingredients. It was a tasty combo of flavors. The coffee was the best we've ever had at a restaurant. They use a french press so it's fresh every time. We love the local ingredients menu and we will be back! Our new fav!"
Dined on 5/11/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, vibrant bar scene, romantic, neighborhood gem, hot spot, special occasion
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"Whenever I take someone new to Legume, I can't help but talk it up before we go... then fear perhaps it won't meet the expectations. But it ALWAYS exceeds. Absolutely our favorite place to eat in the 'burgh! The mix of flavors are always so delectable. And for what you get, and the care taken with the food and service, I feel that the restaurant is a bargain."
Dined on 5/11/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, special occasion
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"Legume is one of my favorites--I'm almost always really pleased by my evenings there. I had a great goat chefs sformato with salad (yum) and a very tasty pork three ways entree. The latter is very heavy, fatty, so I probably won't repeat that--but what was I expecting with pork belly included?!
Wait staff is warm and friendly and very attentive. I'll be back (again and again)"
Dined on 5/10/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, special occasion
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"The chef here is incredibly creative, using local fresh produce (ramps!) and meat and coming up with absolutely delicious food. The waiter wasn't pretentious but seriously into good food and was great at describing where ingredients came from and how the food was cooked--making the entire experience a real pleasure. We've been here many times and it never fails to be a great evening--including New Year's Eve two years in a row. Highly recommended."
Dined on 5/10/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, vibrant bar scene, romantic, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, special occasion
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"Delicious, beautiful food; great cocktails; knowledgeable, friendly service. Loved it and can't wait to return. But funeral home-y dining room and DIY-ish lighting & decor could use a redesign."
Dined on 5/01/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, hot spot, special occasion
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"We didn't get off to a good start when we were initially seated at arguably the worst table in the house (next to a serving area). I thought Open Table was at least worth a decent seat. After we were re seated, things improved. The menu is quite small, but we still managed to find good choices. The chicken was quite moist, and the ham main course very tasty. Service was impeccable. The atmosphere is a bit strange--not sure what they're going for. If you can find something on the menu, and get a decent table, give Legume a try. Given its small menue, I'm not sure I'll be back."
Dined on 5/04/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies
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"After a 2nd visit, a little less positive than the 1st time. The menu seemed "precious"--too intent on being "special" and "different," to the point that we had trouble finding entrees that we wanted, as offered. On our 1st visit, there seemed to be more choices for eaters who prefer plainer food; there are still some of us left! This time just about everything featured ramps (leeks), which is fine if one loves leeks, but I don't. When I asked whether I could have one dish without the ramps, the waiter said, somewhat grudgingly, "Well, I guess so. I'll ask Chef." I don't want to see what seemed to be a good neighborhood restaurant become one with a condescending attitude, especially when the web site does't give the menu of the day."
Dined on 5/04/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies
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"I don't understand all the hoopla. The food is OK, the service mixed and ambiance not great.
The dinner started badly. We had a 7:15 reservation on a Wed evening, arrived a few minutes early, were told that the table would be ready at 7:15 and we could wait in the bar. This was surprising in that the restaurant was half empty. After more than a 20 minute in the bar, we checked in again and were seated at the table that had been opened when we first arrived.
The waiter tried to make up for the wait with a complimentary app of a fish pate. Fortuantely for him, and unfortunately of the restaurant this was the highlight of the evening. The entrees were uninspiring at best. This was our second and last time to Legume."
Dined on 04/24/2013
2007
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"After having read reviews as this being #1 on trip advisor I had to try it for myself. Restaurant is open and decor is simple but light and elegant. Bar is small and packed and smells more like sweat mixed with smell of burgers so we opted to wait in foyer on bench before being seated. Our waitress Sarah was wonderful at explaining all the 'weeds' that are grown locally and in season that are used in many of the evenings menu. The menu this particular evening had lamb, veal, goat, salmon and one pasta dish. My lamb was good but I've had better and my husband's veal was not cooked as ordered. Food was good but not as exceptional as one would expect for 1st place ranking on another website. The ambience and service made the evening"
Dined on 04/26/2013
2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
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"I love Legume, their philosophy about food, and the refined, adventurous cooking. I've sat in the front room and felt as if I were having a luxurious experience. My most recent visit, we were seated near the intersection of the (open) kitchen entry, two larger groups, and another entrance to the bar. The chatter and music didn't bother me, but there was a lot of pot-banging, dish-related noise coming from the kitchen that intruded on a special occasion. Our server, Tate, was terrific, had a great sense of humor. The meal was lovely, special cocktails were tasty, and although we were too full for a birthday dessert, Tate brought a lit candle in a small bowl of rich whipped cream. One of my favorite places in Pittsburgh!"
Dined on 04/25/2013
2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, special occasion, hot spot
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"My second time there with a group and both has been terrific. The menu is unique and tasty. Initially went there because of the "vegetarian" options but found that the menu is much more diverse. It is a white tablecloth restaurant without the formality, very comfortable. For example, there was a wine spill at the table and the staff was beyond helpful. The bar next door is an excellent way to ease into the dining experience with some different adult beverages in a pleasant environment; I had a "Blood and Sand"."
Dined on 04/22/2013
2012
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"Everyone loved their dishes and all the food was locally sourced; right down to the freshly butchered goat! Only draw back was having our party's cocktails arrive half way through dinner instead of before the meal. This was likely due to the incredibly busy bar scene. The drinks were mixed quite well."
Dined on 04/20/2013
2011
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion
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"Fresh food prepared creatively. It had been a year and a half since the four of us dined there and we were looking forward to it. However, we were disappointed because our experience fell short. While the restaurant's core mission remains--serving the freshest food in expressive ways, we were disappointed because the choices are so limited and the price is so expensive. None of us would order the same thing again or felt that we got our money's worth. However, that was not the case the first time we dined there. We, in fact, spent more the first time and ate "new" things, but enjoyed it immensely. We are not neophyte diners or afraid to spend on meals. In fact, the first time we dined there we had the most expensive items the menu"
Dined on 04/20/2013
2011
Special Features: fit for foodies, hot spot
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"Love this restaurant! Everything is from local farms and fresh as can be. the chef is so creative. my second visit and not disappointed in any way. Looking forward to going back the next time I am in Pittsburgh."
Dined on 04/19/2013
2013
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, special occasion
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"Meal was excellent! Interesting food choices. What we had was very well crafted and delicious! Plus, the meal was less expensive thatn I expected. With a very nice red wine (only $38 for the bottle)and a tip over 20%, the bill was $100 a couple. Will return in the near future!"
Dined on 04/18/2013
2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion
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"The cocktails where amazing.We order to share the patè delicious but small.we didn't order soup or salad and the entree was delicious but we wish we have a little free advice from the waiter in order to get a side dish cause was too little.We will be back for sure and order appetizer soup salad entree and desert this time.Maybe was our first time the main reason why we leave the restaurant still wanting more."
Dined on 04/17/2013
2013
Special Features: special occasion
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"Excellent meal. Limited selections, but we knew that, and didn't mind. Everything was delicious! Had a drink in the bar next door first as we were early (a small, casual, lively bar). Only negative was the length of time we had to wait for a taxi to our hotel after the meal."
Dined on 04/15/2013
2008
Special Features: fit for foodies, special occasion
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"I had a wonderful meal starting with the country pate served with a great mustard and conichons. My entree was mackeral over lentils. I ordered a special side of bok choy kimchee and must admit that this was too vinegary and spicey for me. I would NOT order this side again. THe dessert was extremely tasty--rice pudding with caramel sauce, a dab of whipped cream and a flavor reminiscent of chocolate which was subtle but definitely added to the tastiness of the dessert. I would definitely order the dessert again. My wine was riesling from the 'wines by the glass' list and it was a good accompanyment to my meal."
Dined on 04/15/2013
2008
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list
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"One of the best meals I've had in a long time. I had stinging nettle soup, braised house made tempeh with many accoutrements, and carrot cake with cream cheese ice cream. My husband had a goat cheese sofrata salad with beets, pork and quince with polenta and spiced prunes, and rosemary caramel rice pudding with granola. It was all beautifully presented, made with local ingredients, and extremely tasty. The server was very friendly, knowledgeable, and prompt. I look forward to my next meal at legume."
Dined on 04/13/2013
2011
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, special occasion
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"Each dish was wonderful. LOVED our sformato appetizer. The tempeh entree was so savory and interesting. And the baked alaska with vanilla and pistachio ice cream was DIVINE. My Allegheny cocktails were a terrific suggestion from our darling server when she learned I'm a bourbon drinker. Can't say enough about Legume -- fresh bread, drinks, food -- delicious. And by the end of the evening I wanted to be friends with my charming and knowledegeable server (who is actually a pastry chef!). I would absolutely go back to Legume on my next visit to Pburgh."
Dined on 03/30/2013
2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
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"I've never had a bad meal here. As a small eater, I often order a soup, a small plate, and a side. My husband always goes for an entree. We are both happy."
Dined on 04/06/2013
2011
Special Features: fit for foodies, special occasion
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"The menu was creative with the ingredients that are currently available, the food was very well-prepared, and the service was exceptional. The location makes it a reasonable walk from Oakland, Squirrel Hill, or Shadyside. My wife and I have a new favorite restaurant in PGH! We will certainly return."
Dined on 04/06/2013
2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic
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"My new favorite restaurant in Pittsburgh. The tempeh dish was incredible while my husband had a steak & mushroom risotto that he loved also. Perfect!!!!"
Dined on 04/06/2013
2010
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"One of the best and most innovative meals I have had in Pittsburgh. Food was tasty and very well prepared. Limited menu, but my choice was outstanding. Our waiter was very knowledgable and efficient. Will most definately come back and have already recommended Legume to several people."
Dined on 04/05/2013
2007
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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"Excellent pairings of flavor and textures. Very creative without ever being a stretch or trying to be trendy. Presentations are nicely done and portions are perfect. Street parking or valet across the street."
Dined on 04/02/2013
2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic
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"Legume is one of the top five restaurants in Pittsburgh. The local, seasonally appropriate ingredients are put together in innovative (but not annoyingly trendy) ways. Even standards such as short rib ravioli are exquisitely prepared...it felt like the paper-thin wrapper literally melted, leaving an explosion of rich meat flavor. I'd recommend the chef tasting menus with wine pairings when available. The service is excellent. All of the servers have been knowledgeable and helpful but never hovering or pushy. The former More restaurant space is comfortable large with enough nooks for a romantic dinner but enough space to hold a large family party."
Dined on 03/30/2013
2011
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, good for groups, kid-friendly, late-night find, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion, hot spot
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"The restaurant was a little bit crowdy. I guess becouse of its location. But the food was outstanding and the service exellent! We had a great time there!"
Dined on 03/30/2013
2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, notable wine list
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"I recently dined at Legume for an anniversary. It was perfectly romantic and our food was amazing! The server had great recommendations and we were both extremely happy with our experience!"
Dined on 03/23/2013
2011
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, romantic, special occasion
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"Wife and I travel and dine extensively in NAFTA and overseas. Legume has graduated nicely to the big-city leagues. Exceptional, innovative dishes that are both familiar and surprising. Cheers!"
Dined on 03/21/2013
2008
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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"exellent food, service and ambiance. always enjoy an evening at Legume. Would highly recommend to anyone looking for a special dinner or works for week night business, early dinner, whenever and whatever, always a great spot."
Dined on 03/16/2013
2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, romantic, special occasion
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"The restaurant ambience was warm and inviting and we liked the many small rooms that woud be great for private parties. However, the food did not live up to our expectations. having booked several days in advance, we did not know what woud be on the menu unti lthe evening of our reservation, and when we went online and reviewed it, there was not much that appealed to us. So, we ordered the two entrees that our waitress recommended highly (sausages and quail) and found both of them disappointing. We are foodies and appreciate culinary creativity, but in this case the entress were a little to "tricked up" for us and some of the flavors did not blend well."
Dined on 03/16/2013
2009
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups
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"Dinner at Legume was a bit disappointing. Service was a rather slow, as we waited about 15 minutes before someone came to our table and another 15minutes before our wine was served. The menu was extremely limited so choosing was difficult. I also have a problem with the use of small plates for the first and second courses. Everything on the plate is "squished" together which makes for a rather poor presentation. What we had was good, but not great. The new space is very nice, but is very plain and could use a bit of decent artwork."
Dined on 03/15/2013
2005
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"A very uninteresting space detracted from what could have been a fine dinner. I tried the tempeh (since it was the only "legume" on the menu) which was OK. Fine bok choy kimchee. Why did everything come with the same rice? Excellent panna cotta for dessert. The mostly bare walls, unispired lighting and few decorative elements made the space look cheap. Come for the food, not the ambience."
Dined on 03/16/2013
2007
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"Three of us went for dinner before a concert. The appetizers were interesting, and the entrees were good, but unremarkable, with the exception of the sausages--they were spectacular. The baked Alaska was more theater than dessert."
Dined on 03/16/2013
2012
Special Features: fit for foodies
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"The best part of the evening was that they printed "Happy Birthday ------" on our menus for my daughter's birthday celebration. Though the service was very detailed and attendant, the lackluster enthusiasm of our waiter detracted significantly from the experience. He seemed bothered and strained by the slightest req. The food was very good but not great. My wife had the quail, which she thoroughly enjoyed, and I had the house-made tempeh with mushroom ragout. I almost never order vegan but the mood struck me and I quite enjoyed it. The rest of the table (6 diners) had mixed reviews.Three had the house-made sausage plate which sounded fantastic but didn't live up. Only 1 out of 3 sausages were excellent. Lastly, the draught beer menu rocked!"
Dined on 03/15/2013
2004
Special Features: fit for foodies
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"First class food + zero pretentiousness. Service was perfect, knowledgeable, attentive. We really appreciated the locally sourced and high quality products on the menu."
Dined on 03/13/2013
2008
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
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"You can tell it is in a lobby/bottom floor of an apartment/office building. I do not understand how people say the atmosphere and ambiance is so comforting/warm?
The food was good and the pate we had beforehand was fantastic. I would recommend to have a cocktail at Butterjoint before or during dinner because the drinks are both classic and creative. Overall it was a solid night, but nothing to brag about."
Dined on 03/01/2013
2011
Special Features: good for groups, neighborhood gem
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