Madison Kwiecinski – Editor-in-Chief

Mvk5945@psu.edu 

Pineapple Eddies Southern Bistro is a unique Erie stable with a creative culinary style that fuses Southern regional dishes with Caribbean cuisine. The restaurant is a family-owned business located at 1402 W 10 Street. 

The restaurant building was not what I would typically expect. Arriving at the location, the building looks like a house with large business signs. The house-like feel continues inside as the first floor is broken into small rooms, giving a cozy feel. Walking in, you feel welcomed. It is like you have entered a homey environment for dinner.

However, I do have two criticisms about the set-up of the restaurant. The first is parking, as there is no parking lot and limited street parking at their current location. Also, because of the unorthodox style, while it feels inviting and cozy, it occasionally becomes quiet. This issue can make the experience of chatting over dinner awkward. 

Now, when discussing food, there is so much to talk say. Starting with appetizers, their wings are delicious and come as a six-piece for nine dollars. They also come in various delicious sauces, my favorite of which is brown sugar bourbon due to the uniquely sweet flavor. Although they have numerous appetizers, I recommend the wings or their seasonal hushpuppies. 

The entrees are also varied and diverse. The Chicken Marsala comes smothered in a delicious sauce and includes mashed potatoes. Other options range from Chicken and Waffles to Jerk Chicken. 

There are also several burgers, including a jerk burger and a more traditional option. My personal favorite is the Pineapple Eddies burger. A beef patty with lettuce, tomato, onion, grilled pineapple, bacon, and barbeque sauce on a delicately toasted bun. The pineapple slice on the burger adds a unique flavor that is complimented very well by the BBQ. 

Some of the larger entrees offered include a 13 oz Ribeye, Griyo, which is cubed pork shoulder flash fried with pickles, a half slow roasted chicken, pan seared or fried catfish, and brown sugar bourbon fried chicken. 

Overall, the menu has very diverse options, offering unique cuisine that would be difficult to find elsewhere. Additionally, all dishes have a home-cooked feel that exemplifies the care each one took to craft. 

Pineapple Eddies has been open for a decade and is a popular Erie restaurant. Earlier I criticized the location and feel of their current location. It is worth noting that sisters Adrienne Paul and Karen Thomas, who own Pineapple Eddies, have recently purchased a new piece of real estate. This new location is at 461 and 463 W Eighth Street. 

However, the new restaurant will need to be fully renovated and likely will not open until the end of 2023. Even with the upcoming move, the sisters have stated that their current location will not close during the renovations. 

Truly, Pineapple Eddies have a unique feel and delicious cuisine that is worth checking out the next time you need a bite to eat.