🍕 National Pizza Day in Pittsburgh

Local Man Released from ICE Detention

José Flores, an asylum seeker with legal status in the U.S., reunited with his family on Saturday after more than a week in ICE custody. Flores was taken outside his home on Jan. 29 without a warrant. ICE did not give an explanation for his detention or their decision to release him.

• Flores’ employer, Oakmont Bakery, thanked several local lawmakers for helping to secure his release.
• Protesters marched in the South Side on Sunday, demanding ICE “stop terrorizing our community.” Organizers say legislators should require ICE to be unmasked, provide ID, wear body cameras, and have judicial warrants for arrests. [TribLive]

Western PA Athletes Compete in Olympics

Watching the Winter Olympics in Milan? Several hometown athletes are participating, like hockey goaltender Ava McNaughton of Seven Fields, bobsledder Jasmine Jones of Greensburg, and hockey center Vincent Trocheck, who grew up in Upper Saint Clair and currently plays for the New York Rangers. See the full list and when to watch. [WESA]

Hoffman Family Interested in Buying PG

The same company that’s agreed to buy the Pittsburgh Penguins is interested in acquiring the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, which is set to close down May 3. The Hoffman Family of Companies currently owns around 120 newspapers through a subsidiary. The PG's current owner, Block Communications, announced plans last month to shut down the paper. [KDKA / 🎧 City Cast Pittsburgh]

• Could there be another model for the paper? Members of the Newspaper Guild of Pittsburgh are researching cooperative and nonprofit business models. [CWA]

Gainey Appointed to PA Gaming Control Board

Former Mayor Ed Gainey got a new gig on the state board that regulates gambling at casinos, sports betting, and online gaming. As a commissioner, he’ll earn $145,000 per year. [WPXI]

Whether you like thin crust or deep dish, there’s a local slice for you. Satisfy your cravings with recommendations from Pittsburgh’s favorite pizza journalist Dan Tallarico on today’s City Cast Pittsburgh podcast.

Then scroll for five tasty spots that are open TODAY, National Pizza Day ⬇️

Iron Born

Millvale & Strip District

The crispy, caramelized crust is the star of Iron Born’s Detroit-style pizza. Order their signature spicy pie with hot honey, sopprasata, and banana peppers, or have a perfect Pittsburgh moment with their slice topped with garlic cream and house-made pickles.

Spirit Pizzeria

Lawrenceville

You might’ve been to Spirit for a concert or event, but their pizza joint is worth visiting on its own. Get a cocktail or nonalcoholic drink at the bar, slide into a cozy booth, and dig into a classic white pizza topped with caramelized onions. Looking for a late-night bite? They have special happy hours for $5 off pies.

F&F Pizzeria

Mt. Lebanon

Did you know you can get Brooklyn-famous pizza in the Burgh? F&F Pizzeria, led by “the Franks,” is known for its naturally fermented crust. The pies feel fresh yet traditional, taking inspiration from both Neapolitan and NY styles. I recommend buying a bottle of their Calabrian olive oil!

Mercurios

Shadyside

Transport yourself to Italy at Mercuiro’s, a Neopalitian-style pizza and gelato shop. Get toppings like Italian mortadella, prosciutto, eggplant, and more. Just be sure to save room for dessert. There are all kinds of seasonal gelato flavors, but you can’t go wrong with classics like a nutty, creamy pistachio or decadent “Death by Chocolate.”

Slice on Broadway

South Side

This local pizza chain is kind of famous. They took home an award for "World’s Best Cheese Slice" at the 2025 International Pizza Expo & Conference in Las Vegas. Their New York-style pie has crispy thin crust, a balanced tomato sauce, and just the right amount of cheese. Tip: There are six locations in town, but only the South Side location is open on Mondays.