Smash-burger fans just scored a new spot to camp out at the Waterworks. Beef Graffiti, a smash-burger concept from chef Mark Mammone, has opened a casual storefront inside the Giant Eagle Market District at the Waterworks. The counter-service cafe began serving customers on Saturday and brings the chef's bold, over-the-top burgers into a grocery-anchored dining space, with a handful of booths, tables, and a small bar pouring beer and wine.
According to WTAE, Mammone signed a three-year lease for the cafe space across from the store's Starbucks, and Beef Graffiti will be open Tuesday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. The outlet also reports that the setup includes a self-order counter along with a common dining and lounge area that is separated from the main grocery floor.
Pittsburgh Magazine reports that Mammone rebranded after two food-truck stints, The Smashery and Bridge City Brinery, and he recently wrapped a residency at Federal Galley on the North Side. The magazine adds that Mammone plans to grow Beef Graffiti into additional Market District kitchens in the future.
Where It Sits
The shop occupies the Market District Waterworks cafe area on Freeport Road inside the Waterworks shopping plaza, according to the store's listing. Per Market District and county business records, the Giant Eagle Market District at Waterworks is listed at the same Freeport Road address.
What To Order
Pittsburgh Magazine highlights menu standouts such as a Double Beef Smash stacked with beef bourguignon and comté, a Seoul of Pittsburgh topped with bulgogi and chili-garlic mayo, and a croissant-wrapped Chipped Chopped Smash. The story also notes that Mammone's Bridge City Brinery pickles will appear on Market District shelves in June, and Giant Eagle executives praised his commitment to local sourcing, according to Pittsburgh Magazine.
Grocery-Kitchen Trend
The move is part of a broader trend of grocery chains pairing prepared-food partners with supermarket footprints to give shoppers quick dining options. Market District's site describes the Waterworks location as a full Market District with in-store amenities and a separate cafe area; the model Beef Graffiti is now joining, according to Market District.
