Tessaro's Restaurant   

In a world increasingly populated by vegetarians and fad dieters, it's a relief to know not everyone is watching his or her waistline. Good food is a given in Bloomfield, but Tessaro's is the unapologetic black sheep of Little Italy. Instead of the neighborhood's famous pasta, this joint serves burgers -- big, juicy burgers fit to rival any in the city. Pittsburghers crowd into booths and belly up to the bar for the beefy magic of Tessaro's half-pound, hand-slapped patties, all prepared at a fully visible hardwood grill. Fresh meat allows for the medium-rare grilling most other restaurants won't indulge, while non-burger fans can slice into a massive pork chop or a prime cut of tender sirloin. The recipient of dozens of local awards, Tessaro's balances the smoky, low-lit informality of a neighborhood saloon with the high quality of a solid family restaurant. These days, such burger joints are on the rare side.