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| - "Meh. I've experienced better." is actually a pretty good description; thanks Yelp. I have just never been impressed by Steel Cactus, and more often than not, let down. I really try not to go here, however, this place is popular amongst a group of people I spend some time with that work close by... so most of the time its me trying to persuade them into going somewhere else.
Being that it is in Shadyside, and on Walnut specifically, I'd expect it to be one of the best not only in taste, but also service. I honestly have to say Mad Mex is way better. I would expect this place to be better even if it weren't on Walnut.
My first time there I had the blackened mahi mahi with edamame succotash, cilantro rice, and a grilled lime... sounded fantastic on paper, but in reality it was quite bland and forgettable. I thought the lime would have at least enough juice left to squeeze on the fish, but it was just a piece of dry green pulp, so its inclusion was quite pointless. Sad to say, it was probably the most boring meal I've ever had. Same with the house chips, salsa, and guac, they are just lacking flavor and don't keep me wanting to eat them (and trust... I love me some chips & guac). On another occasion, I had their tacos - carne sarteneada. Containing: carne, guajillo pepper salsa, red onion confit, chipotle ranch, bleu cheese, & scallions. While a step up from the mahi mahi, it was nothing to write home about.
To their benefit, they do have a great space. I like the layout, everything looks nice. They have a great outdoor patio area, and I like their sangria. Their mixed drinks and margs I've found to be prettttty weak on the pour.
In all, I think Steel Cactus is out of place in this area, it belongs in the Southside or maybe some suburb where multiple good options are less prevalent.
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