Fat Head’s on Carson Street is a name synonymous with hearty portions and a fun, laid-back atmosphere in Pittsburgh. For many, like myself, memories of Fat Head’s stretch back years, perhaps even to childhood. While my early appreciation might have been fueled by their then-stock of Jones Soda, a trendy cane-sugar pop of the ’90s and 2000s, Fat Head’s has proven its staying power far beyond sugary drinks.
My initial fondness for Fat Head’s as a kid stemmed from simple pleasures. Family outings often led us to this Carson Street spot, drawn in by the promise of a lively atmosphere and substantial food. While the adults enjoyed the diverse draft beer selection, my 12-year-old self was easily pleased with a Jones Soda – a brand that instantly elevated any establishment in my youthful eyes.
Years passed, and despite Fat Head’s expansion with new locations and its own brewery, my visits became infrequent. However, a recent suggestion from my girlfriend to revisit for their famed Bumble Berry ale sparked a necessary return. Paired with my choice of Dortmunder Lager, the beers were a solid start. Her Bumble Berry, a honey-blueberry ale, stood out, garnished with fresh berries and boasting a delicious flavor that warranted a second look at Fat Head’s, beyond nostalgic soda memories.
This revisit led me back for lunch, where the menu’s sheer volume of sandwich options became immediately apparent. Sandwiches are clearly a cornerstone here, categorized into sandwiches, burgers, and the aptly named “Headwiches” – the super-sized sandwich tier. I opted for the Southside Slopes, a menu item touted as nationally recognized by Maxim magazine. While a quick search revealed a slight inflation of this claim (it was featured in a 2004 Maxim list of top “meat hog” sandwiches, not recent top sandwich rankings), the anticipation was set for a substantial meal.
The Southside Slopes lived up to the “gigantic” descriptor. Essentially a kielbasa hoagie piled high on a bun and topped with pierogies, it was undeniably filling. While perhaps not a culinary masterpiece, it delivered satisfying, hearty flavors, especially when paired with their Starlight helles lager. The accompanying house-made chips were also noteworthy, despite the menu’s firm stance against potato substitutions – chips with sandwiches, fries with burgers, no exceptions.
What truly distinguishes Fat Head’s on Carson Street is its welcoming and unpretentious vibe. On a street known for its vibrant and sometimes chaotic energy, Fat Head’s provides a surprisingly relaxed and positive experience. The service is attentive yet unobtrusive, and the staff and patrons exude a genuine friendliness. The soundtrack, a mix of classics from “Mother and Child Reunion” to “Folsom Prison Blues” and “Heroes,” perfectly balances background music with recognizable tunes that enhance the atmosphere without overpowering conversation. Curating such a throwback playlist is a delicate art, and Fat Head’s executes it flawlessly.
Beyond the food and drink, the overall operation of Fat Head’s is impressive. It functions as a well-oiled, welcoming neighborhood restaurant, complete with a somewhat oddly placed but functional gift shop. They consistently deliver mountains of food and reliably good beer. While Fat Head’s might not contend for the title of Pittsburgh’s best bar or restaurant – you might find trendier spots nearby – it excels in providing exactly what many seek: a relaxed, family-friendly dining experience with generous portions and quality brews. It’s the perfect spot for suburban families venturing downtown, seeking a satisfying meal and a couple of beers in a casual environment – downtown without the stuffiness, South Side without the frenzy. Fat Head’s is simply a solid, dependable restaurant that delivers on its promise of good times and big flavors.
And while they may no longer stock Jones Soda, Fat Head’s on Carson Street continues to offer plenty of reasons to visit, solidifying its place as a Pittsburgh mainstay.
