New Pittsburgh Taqueria: Eat Mexican Food, Learn A Little Spanish

PITTSBURGH, PA — What started out as a takeout window last year becomes a full-service restaurant and bar Tuesday with the opening of Duo's Taqueria on Penn Avenue in East Liberty.

The eatery is a venture of language learning platform Duolingo, which is headquartered next door, and chef Marcella Ogrodnik. In addition to Mexico City-inspired food, the restaurant also will boast immersive Duolingo-powered language experiences.

Duo's takeout favorites, such as taco al pastor, remain on the menu. But the offerings have been expanded to include sharing plates, main courses and desserts. There's also a full-service bar

featuring classic Mexican drinks like margaritas and palomas, as well as modern cocktails from the heart of Mexico City’s bar culture, such as the tres leches punch.

The waitstaff is bilingual, and flippable drink coasters let guests signal whether they’d like to order in English or Spanish. Guests can also receive animated language learning tips by scanning tokens (using near-field communication technology) mounted throughout the restaurant.

Guests also can play a quiz at the table with friends.

“After the success of our takeout window, we’re so excited to re-open Duo’s Taqueria as

a full restaurant and bar,” Duolingo CEO Luis von Ahn said.

“Our goal with this restaurant is to give back to the Pittsburgh community by providing the best Mexican food in the city. And we know food is a wonderful way to get people excited about learning and speaking Spanish. At Duo’s Taqueria, practicing a little Spanish can be delicious and rewarding.”