The Story
Or, The Whale opened in East Liberty in 2019 as a neighborhood wine bar and small-plates restaurant, and quickly established itself as one of Pittsburgh's most thoughtful dining experiences. Chef-owner Mitchell Henry crafts menus that change with the seasons, built around whatever is freshest from local farms combined with influences from across the Mediterranean.
What Makes It Pittsburgh
The wine program is the heart of the operation. The list is curated, affordable, and designed to introduce diners to producers and regions they might not have encountered before. The atmosphere is warm and intimate, with exposed brick, soft lighting, and a bar where solo diners can eat comfortably.
East Liberty's dining scene has grown significantly in recent years, and Or, The Whale represents the neighborhood at its best: a place where quality and unpretentious hospitality come together.