I had such high hopes for Sal's, I really did. And I was hoping the few reviews I saw were not typical. Unfortunately, the reviews are all too accurate. My first negative about Sal's was the fact that I had to call to find out what their hours are. The website is all fancy smancy yet somehow, unless I missed it, the hours of operation are not included anywhere. Not that I mind making the phone call, but if it can be avoided by adding some simple business information on your website....
I only ordered take out and did not call ahead. They have a separate entrance for take out orders where you can see into the kitchen and watch your sandwich being made. That was pretty cool. I ordered a Muffaletta but asked them to go light on the olive tapenade which they did. The sandwich itself was okay, could have used some more meat. It came with a pickle which was a nice touch. But for $10? Hardly worth it. And maybe it's just me, but I feel like the staff could be a bit friendlier. Especially if you're a new business trying to make an impression.
I guess I can appreciate what they're trying to do. If what they are trying to do is create a New York Deli-type environment. I don't know that Pittsburgh really wants or needs it, though, as I personally feel there are just way too many other better and/or cheaper options around.