You might not expect to find a BBQ joint alongside the Montour Trail, but the Bike Shop Grille is no ordinary restaurant. It’s a hidden gem with delicious and affordable food INSIDE the Tandem Connection Bike Shop.
Started by John Kosko, who has owned and operated various restaurants/catering businesses around the Pittsburgh area for over 25 years, Bike Shop Grille should be on everyone’s BBQ bucket list. “This place has a really good vibe,” Kosko said. “We are still Roadside Ribs, but everyone kept asking where our new restaurant was, so we decided to promote the location — Bike Shop Grille.”
BBQ is the specialty, but the restaurant also offers large fresh salads, soups, interesting wraps and more. Plus it sells many of the sauces by the jar for take-home. There are lots of options for where to sit down and enjoy your food at the Bike Shop Grille. There’s plenty of counter seating overlooking the Montour Trail, two fireplaces, and a cozy indoor dining room. When the weather obliges, there are several al fresco dining spots on the front patio or alongside the building on decorated picnic tables.
Outdoor dining gives customers the atmosphere that was made for BBQ. Because a good portion of the Bike Shop Grille’s customers come straight off the Montour Trail, there’s always plenty of free, onsite parking available. And if you have trouble finding the place, Kosko said to just follow the smell of BBQ — your nose won’t let you miss it. Many diners are on the go, so they opt for takeout instead. All products are easily packaged for takeaway and enjoyment.
“We welcome a lot of Southpointe employees during the workweek lunch hours, and during the summer months, our goal is to be your go-to destination for take-home caterings/dinners. We offer Baby Back Ribs, Pulled Pork and Grilled Chicken, homemade sides, and a variety of different spice/heat levels to specifically fit your needs,” said Kosko.
A popular menu item is the Jumbo Chicken Wings — they are roasted and grilled, never fried, and come in a variety of different sauces. At the end of your meal, there are 16 flavors of ice cream to satisfy your sweet tooth with.
Catering comprises a good chunk Bike Shop Grille’s business. They can accommodate any size group ranging in size from graduation parties, reunions, company picnics and weddings to a simple dinner for your family. They offer superior quality for the pricing.
It’s a pretty eclectic place, a cool spot,” Kosko said. “On one side of the dining room, you may see a group of business professionals in suits enjoying their meals, and one other side you may see a group of cyclists with helmets fluorescent cycling pants. But no matter what they’re doing, everyone is in a good mood, because they’re savoring time off with some of the best comfort food around.”
For more information on the Bike Shop Grille, go to the Facebook page, where you can find daily specials, the catering menu, and more. Hours can vary so check ahead. Kosko adds that pre-orders can always be taken to accommodate a customer’s schedule.
To place a take-out order for your next party, picnic or event, or to order a dinner that can’t be beat, call 412.292.8156 or email bikeshopgrille@gmail.com.