There will never be another Butya’s Tavern

For more than six decades, Butya’s Restaurant and Lounge – also known as “Bootchas” – was a Robinson Township icon. Built during World War II, it sadly gave way some 15 years ago to yet another Sheetz. But the legends of Butya’s live on.

The establishment was probably best known for its huge fish sandwiches that many claimed were hands-down the best in the area. Pair it with a pile of french fries and a cold brew and what could be better? Other favorites on the Butya’s menu were wings (celebrated on wings nights), hot meatloaf sandwiches, fried shrimp (remember peel and eat shrimp nights?) and more.

Rosie, a famed Butya’s cook, could do it all to perfection. So could Anna, a cook/waitress who was always impeccably dressed in a white uniform and starched apron. Paulie of Moon Township was a beloved bartender who knew the patrons by name and enjoyed engaging in entertaining banter.

The bar’s interior was rather unique. From the gridiron carpet to the Wheaties box – supposedly signed by a Pittsburgh Steeler – its vibe was Pittsburgh through and through.

Events at Butya’s were always crowd-pleasers. There were Coyote Ugly nights, Jack Daniels parties and Saturday Night Karaoke, to name a few.

Jeff Butya would occasionally pour a line of alcohol on the bar and light it – always a hit! After a hot ball game, you could step into Butya’s heavenly air conditioning and be treated to an ice-cold soft drink on the house.

If you still crave Butya’s fish sandwiches, you’re in luck. After the family establishment closed, Jeff Butya opened two more, called the All-Star Sports Bar and Grill. There is one in Robinson and another one in South Pointe. Both offer the very same fish sandwiches that magically bring back the taste you loved.

According to Lisa, granddaughter of Anna, the cook/waitress and a loyal customer at the old Butya’s, “Everyone raves about the food, but it was the people who worked and visited there that made Butya’s so special.”

There will never be another bar like it.