Moonlite Cafe

Mamma mia! If you've been in search of a bona fide Italian experience without the hefty price tag, buckle up, foodies, because I've found the place. That's right, we drove cross town to dine at Moonlite Cafe and it was worth every mile.

First off, let's talk portions. Moonlite Cafe knows the meaning of generosity. We're talking about mountains of food, literally. Their Zucchini Mountain is a delectable tower, generously portioned to serve four, although in my case, it was a delicious battle for two. The zucchini was tender, stacked sky-high, and accompanied by a sauce that screamed 'mangia'! (Leftovers for 2 meals)

SAUCE: Moonlite Cafe's marinara is the real MVP—authentic, zesty, and giving me all the "just like Nonna used to make" vibes. Seriously, can we have a moment of silence for all the other places that mess this up with a marinara that tastes like brown sugar or, even worse, green peppers? Not here!!!

When it came to the side salad, we were floored by its sheer size and ridiculously reasonable price—only $4! Compare that to other places where you'd easily drop $8-10. But the crown jewels? Italian roasted peppers and a duo of olives! However, a tiny word of advice: ****The house dressing is on the vinegar-forward side. So, perhaps, drizzle don't drown. But hey, if that's the only hiccup, I'd say we're in pretty great shape.****

Now, if you're hesitating over their slushies, don't. With a dash of alcohol, this drink won me over instantly. I mean, if Moonlite Cafe can make a slushy skeptic say 'Damn, that's good,' they're clearly onto something.

Ah, but life isn’t perfect—even in foodie paradise. The absence of Eggplant Parm on the menu left me a tad disheartened, but hey, we can't have it all, right? On the vegetarian front, the menu might leave you wanting for more variety, but their pasta sans meatballs hit the spot for me. Shrimp options are also available for pescatarians out there.

My husband opted for the Chicken Parm and let’s just say, the portion was large enough to stretch into a second meal. His verdict? More marinara would've been the cherry on top, but taste-wise? Chef's kiss.

Now, for the jaw-dropping grand finale: all this indulgence—two side salads, a Zucchini Mountain, pasta, Chicken Parm, a Stella Artois, and a slushy—came to a shockingly reasonable under $50. Are you kidding me?

Oh, and about the dinner pace: 0ur dishes rolled out faster than you can swipe right on a dating app or a Ferrari on an open road, take your pick. The dining area was weirdly chill, but that's a one-off; this place usually pops. Even the regulars were like, "What's the deal? Where's the crowd?" Servers shrugged it off as an oddly slow night.

But don't sleep on this—the bar side was straight-up busy.

***So, with two more hours till closing time (restaurant side), the rapid-fire courses seemed more like Moonlite Cafe being super eager to impress us. No biggie, but a little breathing room between dishes would have been the cherry on top.****

If you’re seeking an eatery that marries affordability with authenticity, Moonlite Cafe is your sanctuary. Generous portions, authentic flavors, and prices that won't make you sob into your spaghetti. Bellissimo!

Yes we will be going back!

Wether you are looking for a bite to eat or a place to take guests from out of town. You can't go wrong. Great food, excellent value too. The only way to get more authentic Italian is to go Italy.

I knew this place ever since I was a child it's a great atmosphere, the bartenders are fantastic especially Eugene, Ashley and Alyssa and they are always polite and welcoming and they are awesome!!!

Yeah, this place definitely lives up to the hype. Wings were a solid 9/10, cheap beer, friendly wait staff, and a variety of what appears to be loyal long term customers. Perfect neighborhood bar.

We came on Thursday for the chicken parmesan special. Not only was dinner delicious the portions were generous. For dessert it was tiramisu. This was made from a family recipe, the owner's family. This was delicious, rich cream you could taste the expresso.

Service was excellent and it always is.

Moonlite has the best meatball sub I’ve had in ages! Paired that with their zucchini and a cold brew and I was a very happy woman. Cheers.

Finally! In 2022, naaaaa . . . Any year for the past ten years. An unmolested Pittsburgh bar the way it ought to be. Sparse crowd at seven pm , growing to a full group of an eclectic variety. I had the chu chu sandwich with veal because I was told it's their signature sandwich. It should be the signature sandwich of black and gold nation, not the overrated french fry and coleslaw sandwiches that wear the badge. My wife had the chicken parmigiana. It was a large helping and cooked to perfection with a side of penne in garlic butter sauce. I want to write about the fries too but my wife wants me to put my phone down now. You're going to have to find out for yourselves, think McDonald's!

Always a great experience! We did not eat, but had a wonderful time with Marcy and the regulars!!

My dad and I came for dinner and we felt very welcome. Our food was great and we will come back!

Food was fantastic. Loved the atmosphere and staff, they were all accommodating and awesome. Highly recommend this place.

My favorite place in Pittsburgh! Authentic Italian food, great drinks, and atmosphere. It is a family owned business. I love coming to visit this place when we are in town.

Moonlight is awsome! Fish special, white pizza, and the FAMOUS fried zucchini! Can't go wrong!

Excellent wings!! I have to add to this review because i must say it is not just the food but the awesome bartender/server lady who always makes us feel comfortable and cares about her customers experience!

Wings are soooooo good! Chicken Parm and veal Parm also and wedding soup very very good!

Good drink specials and amazing food. The wings are really good.
Everyday there is a different special.
The service is really good and friendly.

Moonlight is a great place to relax,have a beer and watch a game. It has a neighborhood (everybody knows your name) kinda of vibe. Jack & Coke runs around 5 Bucks. (Normal) It also has a great food menu.

We absolutely love The Moonlight. The food is always amazing especially the Chicken Salad! We have been going there for years and have been impressed with the taste of all the dishes we have ordered. You can bring your family here as well & watch the kids play pool while you wait for your food to come out. (Its in a separate area in the back) Can't wait to go again.

Food is AMAZING! bar tenders are friendly and quick. End up here at least 2-3 times a week. Brought out of town family here, and they couldn't say enough about how incredible the moon Light is!

Great place with quality people. Lou and his family are the best. You feel right at home with homemade food and a fantastic selection of beer. Seasonal beers on tap are the best! Highly recommended checking this out if you haven’t been

Buffalo garlic and Carolina. Wonderful wings. I would have thought this was a dive but I was suprised with how new this establishment felt!