Banksville - Pittsburgh, PA Area Guide

European colonist Isaac Sellers first settled in the Banksville area in 1773 and sold the land to David and Agnes Carnahan about 10 years later. David’s three sons each inherited a parcel, and one of them, Alexander, named the area Banksville after his wife, Eliza Banks. He laid out the community just after the Civil War, and it quickly became known for agriculture and coal mining.

Starting in 1901, streetcars began transporting residents to and from downtown Pittsburgh, and before long Banksville outgrew its rural character. The city annexed Banksville in 1907, which, along with construction of highways and bus lines, further contributed to expanding the neighborhood. Through the 20th century, Banksville earned a reputation for quality schools and a suburban feel, despite lying within the city limits. This location gives residents easy access to the cultural institutions of Pittsburgh, such as the Fort Pitt Museum on Commonwealth Place.

Diners have options in Banksville. Restaurants, many of which lie on or near Banksville Road, represent a wide range of cuisines and tend to have a casual ambiance. Fast food options, such as Subway and Arby’s, do exist, but family-owned businesses have a better reputation here. After the sun sets, head south to nearby Dormont, where several neighborhood bars and lounges provide a laid-back atmosphere for night owls.

On Banksville Road just north of Crane Avenue, Pittsburgh Barbecue Company serves Carolina-style barbecue in a no-frills dining room. In addition to the classics, such as ribs and brisket, the restaurant makes legendary pulled chicken, juicy and seasoned to perfection. Make sure to save room for dessert. The baked apples, sweet and saucy, end a meat-centric meal right.

Cheese lovers, take note. Farther south, near Goldstrom Avenue, Beto’s Pizza & Restaurant specializes in classic pizza with a twist. Instead of baking the entire pizza, Beto’s bakes the crust and sauce to piping hot, then adds cold cheese and toppings, resulting in a flavor circus of textures and temperatures, and pizza like you’ve never had it before. Order extra cheese at your own risk. The normal slice has more than enough.

For a taste of India, head to The Mintt at the southern end of the neighborhood. You can’t go wrong with the buffet, where colorful food awaits at all hours of the day. Regulars rave about the tandoori chicken, with a crispy roasted exterior that tastes zesty from a yogurt, garlic and ginger marinade. The Mintt hosts private parties and caters off-site events as well.

After dinner, head to Broadway Avenue in nearby Dormont, where Albert’s Lounge carries the torch as the best neighborhood bar in the area. Clean and casually decorated, Albert’s features a full liquor selection and more than 20 craft beers on tap. Check the daily specials to guide your ordering, and relax with friends by shooting some pool in the back.

Banksville residents have plentiful transportation options, both public and private. The mature trees and suburban pace of life make recreational walks and bike rides popular. Commuters tend to make use of the public bus system, operated by the Port Authority of Allegheny County. Route 36 and 38 carry riders to the city center in about 40 minutes, with buses arriving every 15 minutes from 6 a.m. to 9:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. The red line of the city’s light rail system runs just east of the neighborhood. Trains run as early as 4:30 a.m. and as late as 1 a.m. and reach downtown in 30 to 40 minutes.

Driving remains popular, particularly for running errands and other short trips within the area. Some street parking exists, though commercial lots are more common. Most homes and apartment complexes have driveways or designated parking spaces. Banksville lies between Highway 30 and Highway 19, both of which lead to the city center and, in the opposite direction, the greater metropolitan area. With light traffic, the journey downtown can take as little as 10 minutes. Given the neighborhood’s central location, private car services can provide convenience at a reasonable cost. Just use your smartphone to reserve a ride via Uber.

Outdoor life in Banksville revolves around Banksville Park at the north end of the neighborhood. Operated by the city of Pittsburgh and free to enter, the park features tennis courts, a baseball field and a children’s playground. An outdoor swimming pool, open during the summer months, offers further opportunity for exercise. Given the park’s focus on recreational facilities, dog owners should plan to exercise their pets at home.

Each summer on a weekend afternoon, the park plays host to the Banksville Community Festival. Attendees sample local foods, listen to live music and learn about the history and heritage of the community.

Given its location, urban but at the outskirts of the city, Banksville’s cost of living runs 8 percent lower than the national average, which in turn is 5 percent higher than the Pittsburgh average. Landlords in Banksville collect an average monthly rate of $795.

One-way bus and light rail fares start at $2.50, with some transfers requiring additional costs. Set aside about $4 to order a beer at a local bar, and plan for prices at the pump to be about 17 percent above the national average.

Large chain stores dominate the shopping scene in Banksville. Many line Banksville Road, especially near the southern end of the neighborhood, where shoppers find businesses such as Staples, Goodwill and Rite Aid. For smaller, independent stores with more distinctive goods and services, head a few miles south to Dormont.

On Liberty Avenue in the middle of Dormont, Moonstones provides a cleansing environment for Reiki and reflexology enthusiasts. From incense and candles to crystals and jewelry, Moonstones aims to grant you reprieve from the bustle of city living. Check the calendar because many local organizations hold regular meetings here, and don't forget to say hello to the store cat.

Just across the street, Dormont Floral Designs beautifies the neighborhood with flower arrangements for any occasion. Set the budget and describe your personal taste with one of the experts behind the counter, and watch as floral magic unfolds. The store specializes in delivery, and even lets you set up long-term recurring deliveries for a friend or loved one.

Kuhn’s Market, a local chain, serves as the neighborhood grocery store. If you crave local fare, head south to Mt. Lebanon, where a Wednesday evening farmers market operates between June and October.