This review is for Emporio.
I came here on a double date on a Thursday night. We arrived at 6 and the place was busy but not filled to capacity. They told us a 20-30 minute wait (which I didn't understand b/c I could clearly see 2 open tables that would have fit us) but it ended up being more like a 5-10 minute wait.
I was able to try a decent amount of menu items:
Poutine: I opted for the tater tots (you can also get regular fries) topped w/ mushroom gravy (other options were chicken gravy and any of the sauces they put on their meatballs) and cheese curds. This was a decent sized portion for $7. It was pretty tasty though on the salty side.
Pepperoni Fritters: Meh. I couldn't taste any pepperoni in these fritters which was super disappointing. Why are these named pepperoni fritters if there is ZERO pepperoni flavor. It tasted like fried cheese w/ a side of marinara.
Fried Pickles: Yummy and huge portion but you can only eat so many pickles in one sitting :P
Meatball Grinders: I got the turkey meatballs topped w/ almond pesto sauce and smoked gouda. My boyfriend got the spicy pork meatballs topped w/ creamy parmesan sauce and provolone. I thought the turkey meatballs were on the dry side and lacked flavor, and that the pork meatballs were decent but not mindblowing. There were 3 meatballs in each sandwich. The bread was bland and boring. It was a very average meatball sandwich.
My boyfriend and I also got 2 glasses of beer for him ($7.50 each) and a glass of sauvignon blanc for me ($10). Prices to be expected for a downtown restaurant.
Also, I had contemplated getting the 4 meatball option but unfortunately they don't allow mixing so you're stuck w/ 4 of the same meatballs/sauces. Sucks b/c it would be a great way to try all 4 of their meatball options. I don't think you can mix on the sandwiches either. If you want to try all 4 meatballs you would have to order 4 individual sliders which are $3.50 each.
Overall, the food was underwhelming. In all honesty, if it were closer to where I live, I may revisit...but it just isn't worth the trip to downtown Pittsburgh.