Welcome to Golden Gai, a hidden gem nestled in the vibrant heart of Pittsburgh’s East End, conveniently located in Bakery Square. Step inside and embark on a culinary journey to the bustling streets of Japan with our Izakaya-style dining experience.
As you enter Golden Gai, you’re greeted by the warm ambiance of traditional Japanese decor fused with modern touches, creating an inviting atmosphere that is both chic and cozy. The soft glow of our stunning light fixtures over the intimate dining space, where the wooden bar top that spans the length of the space, and slate accents evoke the charm of Tokyo’s iconic Golden Gai district.
At the helm of our kitchen is Executive Chef Michael Taylor, a master of Japanese cuisine renowned for his innovative approach to flavor and presentation. With a background honed at the esteemed Gi-Jin, Chef Taylor brings his passion for culinary excellence to every dish, infusing each bite with creativity and precision.
Golden Gai reviews from people who’ve dined at this restaurant. Based on recent rating.
Overall ratings and reviews
Reviews can only be made by diners who have eaten at this restaurant
4.8
4.8 based on recent ratings
4.8Food
4.8Service
4.7Ambience
4.4Value
Noise • Moderate
Loved For
Pittsburgh / Western PA
Hot spot
Pittsburgh
Hot spot
Review summary
AI-generated from verified diner reviews
Golden Gai, a sister restaurant to Gai Jin, dazzles with its vibrant ambiance and "amazing" service. Praised for its "awesome food and drinks," it offers a unique dining experience with an open kitchen and bar seating. Highlights include the "spicy tuna rice cake" and "miso cod," making it a "must try in Pittsburgh."
118 Reviews
OT
OpenTable Diner
Washington DC3 reviews
5.0
Dined 1 day ago
Overall 5
Food 5
Service 5
Ambience 5
The food is wonderful and they have the best service I’ve had in the city.
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melissa VIP
Pittsburgh16 reviews
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
Overall 5
Food 5
Service 5
Ambience 5
I was super excited to try Golden Gai since it’s the sister restaurant of Gai Jin. It did not disappoint. The food and ambiance were a total vibe. We will definitely be back!
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M
Michael VIP
Pittsburgh13 reviews
5.0
Dined 4 days ago
Overall 5
Food 5
Service 5
Ambience 4
Awesome food and service. Not just our waiter, but the servers bringing the food and drinks
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D
Debbie VIP
Pittsburgh34 reviews
5.0
Dined 4 days ago
Overall 5
Food 5
Service 5
Ambience 3
First time dining at Golden Gai. Our server was excellent and made the experience a good one.
Food was wonderful, so many flavors - and very fresh. We shared everything.
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O
Olivia
Pittsburgh3 reviews
5.0
Dined on March 22, 2025
Overall 5
Food 5
Service 5
Ambience 5
Always great food and service at Golden Gai. Love the ambience !
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M
Moussia
San Francisco2 reviews
5.0
Dined on March 21, 2025
Overall 5
Food 5
Service 5
Ambience 5
Absolutely love my experience here! Wish more places were like this spot. The mocktails are a must try and the I’m still thinking about the branzino (fod)
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T
Tracey VIP
Pittsburgh15 reviews
5.0
Dined on March 19, 2025
Overall 5
Food 5
Service 5
Ambience 5
First time visit tonight. Loved the decor and vibe. Everyone from the staff was friendly from the host, waiter, sushi chef. Food was some of the best I’ve had in Pittsburgh lately. Especially loved the spicy tuna rice cake appetizer and spicy cucumbers- don’t miss either of those! And the sashimi plate (be sure to add the scallops and otoro! My step dad is a bourbon connoisseur and was impressed by the drink selection including orphan whisky and the cocktail with Weller full proof! Make your reservation now! Visit this gem! :)
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C
Clayton VIP
Pittsburgh29 reviews
5.0
Dined on March 18, 2025
Overall 5
Food 5
Service 5
Ambience 4
First time for me at this restaurant. Nicely decorated. Only 2 4-person tables, the rest at bar or sushi counter level. Much much more than a sushi bar with some creative riffs on traditional dishes. The Gyoza were exceptional all around, great display, taste and tasty dipping sauce. The Hamachi "collar" special was without compare.
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OT
OpenTable Diner
Chicago1 review
5.0
Dined on March 12, 2025
Overall 5
Food 5
Service 5
Ambience 5
Great experience for our first time here! The service was impeccable from our waiter, but also from all staff that we interacted with.
The food was incredible. And the drinks!? The drinks!!! Splurge!!
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C
Cathy VIP
Pittsburgh16 reviews
5.0
Dined on March 11, 2025
Overall 5
Food 5
Service 5
Ambience 5
Excellent food and exceptional service from our server.
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FAQs
Golden Gai is rated 4.8 stars by 118 OpenTable diners.
Yes, you can generally book this restaurant by choosing the date, time and party size on OpenTable.
