Cancel

Open app

Search

Muddy Waters Oyster Bar

4.4 (848 reviews)
Closed • 4:30 pm - 10:00 PM

Muddy Waters Oyster Bar Reservations

Order Muddy Waters Oyster Bar Takeout or Delivery

Muddy Waters Oyster Bar Photos

MUDDY WATERS OYSTER BAR ATMOSPHERE

What's the vibe?
Hipster
Casual
Trendy
Loud

You might also consider

More like Muddy Waters Oyster Bar

Recommended Reviews - Muddy Waters Oyster Bar

Your trust is our priority, so businesses can't pay to alter or remove their reviews. Learn more about reviews.
Yelp app icon
Browse more easily on the app
Review Feed Illustration

Reviews With Photos

LOUISIANA LOBSTER ROLL
Brandywyne D.

Always good. Best oysters in Pittsburgh and amazing blood marys. Had my first étouffée and I'll probably get it everytime now. (Forgot a photo of the oysters). Small interior so be sure to make a reservation!

Fried green tomatoes
Kate S.

I had only been here for brunch previously and it was ehh. However, this experience made me want to make this one of my regular spots. We stopped after the Poe speakeasy just to grab some bites and I'm a huge fan of oysters they had west coast and east coast styles. My fav oysters always come from PEI which they had two or three options of. Our service was spot on. Our waitress was super friendly and helped us make some determinations on oysters based on our tastes. The restaurant was busy but not over crowded and I loved that we got a last minute reservation to ensure table versus bar seating. If you love oysters and a good vibe this is your place! I also loved my drink which I can't recall but it was like a lemonade but better!

French onion soup
Kristine S.

We went on a Sunday for lunch and sat at the bar. We made a reservation, but our table was very small and one of the chairs backed up to another guest chair which made it very uncomfortable. We asked to move and were told we couldn't, so decided the bar was better. The bartender wasn't the friendliest, but she was helpful with recommendations. The oysters were awesome, the drinks were great--we even tried some oyster shooters, which were zesty! I had chicken with biscuit gravy and it was so tasty. I'd go back for sure. Parking was challenging. Finding a spot on the street was a pain.

Whiskey wonderland
Dan K.

What a great place! It's quaint and gives a southern New Orleans feel with the cafe du mond cans for the napkins and silverware. The staff was amazing and very attentive. The food was absolutely delicious. They also had live jazz music, which you don't find in the Pittsburgh area much. The music was perfect for the vibe of the restaurant.

Loving the alligators in the porthole decoration!
Andrew S.

From the start, the name alone screams awesome! Muddy Waters, yes please. Warmly greeted when we arrived early, they accommodated us and sat us 15 minutes before our reservation. The decor was so much fun as was the music selection! The food? Oh boy, the food was soooo good! Our server Monica was on point all night, as was the rest of the staff. I don't live in Pittsburgh, but I would definitely return if I'm back in town.

Shrimp and grits (4/5)
Ryan S.

I got chargrilled oysters (4/5) and the shrimp and grits (4/5). I don't like raw oysters and haven't had cooked before, but I thought the chargrilled oysters were good, although I don't think I'm the biggest fan of oysters either way. The shrimp and grits were pretty good, although the grape tomatoes being cold was a little weird for me. The grits were also kind of room temperature and would have been better a bit warmer. However, the presentation and flavor were great! The service was good and quick (4/5), and the restaurant has a nice interior (4/5).

East coast oysters
Alyssa K.

East coast oyster selection was great. Enjoyed with a bloody mary + shrimp and grits as the entree. Service was great. The restaurant itself had such a fun cajun vibe. Music was also spot on!! We will 100% be back soon.

Chargrilled Oysters
Denise T.

The charbroiled oysters are my draw to this place. They were delicious and highly recommend although this time they were smaller than in the past. The waiter Steve was terrible and will make me think of other options before dining there anytime soon. When a member of our party asked for the waiter and mentioned how hard to get his attention as he was just moving so fast Steve came over and said "I do have other customers I'm busy" That did it for me. The other waiter & waitress were so nice and gives me hope for this place to return. The atmosphere is a dim cozy vibe and usually smooth times not happy with today's service at a place with such good food.

Rum punch
Alicia O.

Sooooo good. This tiny little cozy spot in my neighborhood is my official favorite Pittsburgh oyster place. It rivals Fet Fisk. There is a great selection of seafood options. The cornbread texture was a little different than I'm used to but they give you healthy portions. The mac n cheese was great and enough for 4. Drinks specials were good. My rum punch was strong and tasty, just how I like it. Service was fine, we were assisted as expected. The oysters were obviously the star of the show. A little pricey but worth it.

Oyster tasting notes
Tiffany H.

Came here specifically for happy hour oysters and was not disappointed! They offer three choices of raw oysters - Grindstones, featured East Coast, and featured West Coast - available by the half or full dozen. Everything was super fresh and clean. Oysters were the perfect size and plumpness. I really appreciated the oyster tasting note cards that were displayed on the table! Our server took the time to explain each variety, which made it a fun and flavorful tasting experience. Loved comparing the different textures and finishes, especially between the east and west coast ones. I also ordered the Louisiana Lobster Roll, which came with Cajun fries. It was buttery, generous with lobster and crawfish, and absolutely delicious. The fries were crisp and seasoned just right too! Great food, fresh oysters, and friendly service -- this spot definitely delivered! Will be back for another happy hour round soon.

Chardae J.

I was being adventurous and tried the oysters and I love them with a little texture. Their happy hour is one of the best in the city. It's giving a little New Orleans but in the city. I love their hushpuppies. Their service is always so friendly and the vibes are never off.

CLASSIC PO BOY with Oysters
Natalie H.

It's been one week since Mardi Gras, and one week since returning from New Orleans. As such, I couldn't stop myself from craving some seafood & Louisiana cookin. After searching online, we found Muddy Waters. We showed up at around 5:10 ish and the place was empty. However, we were told that the only seat available was a two seater near the door which we would have to give up in 50 min or to sit at a bar. That worked for us! The wait staff came promptly, took our order. Chargrilled oysters x 6, Oyster Rockefellar with no bacon or breadcrumbs x 6, Oyster Po Boy, French Onion soup with extra cheese & no bread & 6 charbroiled oysters. When I asked if we could do the Rockefeller without bacon and breadcrumbs. She said maybe. The waitress didn't write any of this down. I was very clear that I wanted no bacon, no breading, that was it and if Rockefeller was too complicated to just go for 12 chargrilled oysters. Multiple staff came to our table on separate occasions confused about our order. We clarified again and after back and forth, we said we will just go for 12 chargrilled oysters at this point. Because of the miscommunication and misunderstanding amongst the staff, the food took a while to come out. It was during a time that the restaurant wasn't busy--5:40ish at this point. The po boy came out, it was great and satisfied the craving. The French onion soup didn't have cheese - even though I asked for extra cheese. At this point, I was frustrated because I clarified multiple times with the wait staff. The oysters came out and it was only 6 and we were confused why only 6 oysters. Then when we were almost done with our meal, the other 6 came. I hope the team can improve on the customer service and internal communication. I highly recommend that the staff uses a note pad to take the order instead of trying to memorize it and mix things up. I hate to provide low rankings to local businesses but this experience was a flop. 2 stars for the service. 4 stars for the food.

Seafood gumball
Mike T.

Muddy Waters doesn't play around. That shrimp po'boy? Loaded. Shrimp falling out, still stacked. No skimping--just straight Southern generosity. The Hurricane during happy hour? $6. I added a Gosling's float on top--smooth, bold, just like it should be. Seafood gumbo was rich and full of flavor, light on rice (so if you're a rice-heavy type, ask for more). Oysters? Fresh. Service? On point. They serve food like they mean it. If you're in the mood for real Creole with no shortcuts, this is where you go.

See all

2 days ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

4 months ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 1
Love this 0
Oh no 1

5 months ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

9 days ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

10 days ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 1
Love this 1
Oh no 0

3 months ago

Helpful 2
Thanks 2
Love this 3
Oh no 0

3 months ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

3 months ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

6 months ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 0
Love this 1
Oh no 0

27 days ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

8 months ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

3 days ago

Food was just alright. Service was subpar but could've been worse. Cute bathroom though.

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

10 months ago

Helpful 2
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

10 months ago

Helpful 2
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

5 months ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 1
Oh no 0

3 months ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

13 days ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0
Photo of Mike T.
124
36
27

11 months ago

Helpful 2
Thanks 0
Love this 1
Oh no 0

7 months ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 1
Oh no 0

1 year ago

Helpful 2
Thanks 0
Love this 1
Oh no 0

29 days ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

1 year ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 0
Love this 1
Oh no 0

8 months ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 1
Oh no 0

1 year ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

1 year ago

Helpful 2
Thanks 0
Love this 1
Oh no 0

2 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 1
Oh no 1

1 year ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

1 year ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

2 years ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

2 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

5 months ago

The food, especially jambalaya, the service, and music are all great! We go every few weeks.

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

6 months ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

1 year ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

2 years ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 0
Love this 1
Oh no 0

3 months ago

I'm not a fan of the food. Love the oysters and the cocktails. A nice place for happy hour.

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0
Photo of Andrew M.
176
44
3

11 months ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

2 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

7 months ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

8 months ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

2 years ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 0
Love this 1
Oh no 0

Page 1 of 22

Muddy Waters Oyster Bar Reviews in Other Languages

Ask the Community - Muddy Waters Oyster Bar

How do you cancel a reservation?

You can call them or cancel online. I believe they use open table.

Where is it?

130 S Highland Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15206

The restaurant’s website says they don’t take reservations, but Yelp says they do. Which is correct?

No they don't take reservations currently, it is just first come first serve

I get you're open late, but what time do you stop serving food?

Tuesday Wednesday and Thursday kitchen is open till 11 PM Friday and Saturday till midnight and Sunday till 10 PM. And the bar stays open one hour after

Hi-What's the parking situation like? Any suggestions on where to park? Thanks!

You'll have to find street parking around the block or the surrounding blocks

Don’t See Your Question? Ask Away!

You might also consider

Unspeakable - Entrance to the bar!

Unspeakable

5.0(20 reviews)
1.8 mi•Lawrenceville

We've been here 4+ times now. Unspeakable has such an incredible vibe--cozy, intimate, and dimly…read morelit in a way that feels perfect for a date night or catching up with a close friend. The atmosphere alone is worth a visit. The drinks are definitely crafted with care and have a lot of complexity, but with only two bartenders working, it took quite a while to get ours. Not the place to go if you want quick service or are grabbing a drink before another event. My biggest downside is the price point--most cocktails are around $17. They're good, but at that price I can really only justify having one. Note: They do not have food, just snacks like peanuts. Overall, amazing ambiance and well-made drinks, just expect slower service and a higher bill.

This is my new favorite cocktail bar in Pittsburgh. Every single drink I've had here has been…read morefantastic. I've been twice so far, I've tried six different drinks. Very impressed by their craftsmanship and experimental flavors. There's not many places in this area that even attempt to do that. I love the speakeasy vibe. Super cool entrance and fun comfortable lounge upstairs. It's a fantastic place to go as an intimate group. But it's kind of small to take a group of more than 4 friends. Cocktails were made surprisingly quick even on a busy night. Everything is just really great about this place. Except for maybe the price lol but at least you're getting what you pay for in a good way

Photos
Unspeakable - Upstairs fireplace

Upstairs fireplace

Unspeakable - Violet desert

Violet desert

Unspeakable

See all

Le Mardi Gras - Hurricane cocktail

Le Mardi Gras

4.2(80 reviews)
0.8 mi•Shadyside
•$

If you are interested in a genuine, laid back bar experience, look no further! Le Mardi Gras is…read moretruly special. Not only did the bar tender go above and beyond to find out what kind of drink would suit me best but the drink itself was also spectacular. I still have dreams about this martini. Be prepared to only drink a few though because they are quite strong. I would not expect to drive here and be able to drive home. The atmosphere is dark and intimate with a totally rad and almost New Orleans-ish flare to it. They allow smoking which is a bad thing if you don't like smoke hanging in the air, but it does add to the authentic old-timey bar feel if you're up for it. We came here for pre-dinner cocktails before heading over to Girasole (an amazing little old world Italian place) right next door. A fantastic pairing and the perfect night out. All in all, I would go here every weekend if I lived near. Since I have to make the trip by car service, it's saved for special occasions, which may just add to its overall charm for me.

I'm unsure why low reviewers complain about the smoke- this is a cigar bar. If you go to a cigar…read morebar, then expect smoke. It was exactly what my friends were looking for after dinner down the street. The cigars, drinks, were well-priced (although it is cash-only). The laid back vibe and tucked in booths were appreciated because we were in our own little world talking away. I don't have much to say about the bartenders because I didn't really interact with them. I think the only recommendation I have is to put the cigars in a humidor rather than a plastic bin. That was a bit off-putting.

Photos
Le Mardi Gras - Entry way sign

Entry way sign

Le Mardi Gras
Le Mardi Gras - Bar area

See all

Bar area

Margaux - Liège waffles all day!

Margaux

4.4(184 reviews)
0.1 mi•East Liberty
•$$

I know it's more expensive than other coffee shops, but I have to say it's worth it!…read more This space is so pretty and with a great vibe, huge open area with lots of windows and cozy seating. They have a full bar for a boozy brunch, but their classic cafe is great! The spring special tangerine latte was one of the bets over had! The chicken salad toast was also delicious, with a pretty good portion size and some of the best chicken salad honestly had. It's a super great place to hang out, do some work, or read, really love it!

What a cool spot in East Liberty! Margaux has both a cafe portion and a bar in the same location. I…read morecame here when it was later at night, so I didn't get to see the cafe in all its glory. But, from what I had at the bar, I can tell it's a nice spot. I don't drink alcohol, so I just got a mocktail. I can't quite recall what it was called, but I thought it was awesome. It was sparkling and had a nice fruity and herbal flavor to it. Really good mocktail. My buddy got a cocktail and said it was quite good as well. The service is nice, the views are pretty cool if you're sitting by the windows, and the overall vibe of the place is super cool. I would definitely recommend this spot, and would like to come back for small plates or pastries and coffee in the morning!

Photos
Margaux - All of Margaux's permanent artwork was created by local artists.

All of Margaux's permanent artwork was created by local artists.

Margaux - Waffles served all day!

Waffles served all day!

Margaux - Bargaining Chip cocktail

See all

Bargaining Chip cocktail

Muddy Waters Oyster Bar - cocktailbars - Updated May 2026

Loading...
Loading...
Loading...