Graze Craze in O'Hara offers twist on charcuterie trend

Nutrition and art have converged at a new eatery in O’Hara.

Graze Craze, at 1153 Old Freeport Road, offers creatively arranged finger foods in a twist on the popular charcuterie trend.

“We can cater to your needs, from vegan to keto to a healthy mix of proteins and veggies,” said owner Dawn Landman, a nurse anesthesiologist who recently changed her diet to include more plant-based options.

It is the second Pittsburgh-area franchise to open since 2022, with the other in the North Hills area.

Landman, a Shaler resident, was drawn to the restaurant concept for its focus on healthier options.

“We’re perfect for giving kids healthier lunches during the school year and a great alternative for adults looking for more nutritious midday snacking,” Landman said.

In recent years, charcuterie has been among the hottest food trends, largely for its artisan appeal and ability to keep meals ever-changing.

According to the National Restaurant Association, no two arrangements are the same because ingredient lists are endless.

From figs and jams to sausages and cheese, plates can be fine-tuned for any palate.

“The Fox Chapel area has a sophisticated food scene so there are endless opportunities for us to innovate and share something special with the community,” Landman said.

Founded in 2018 in Oklahoma, the company has opened stores in 16 states across the country.

Cory Hibbard, Graze Craze president, said it’s exciting to anticipate 100 locations in the company’s first couple of years.

Dubbing it an upscale food experience, company officials said Graze Craze boards feature an array of premium meats and cheeses, fresh fruits and vegetables, homemade sweets, nuts and house-made jams.

The boards, curated by on-site “Grazologists,” are perfect for nibbling or hearty meals, Landman said.

Flavors vary from the fan-favorite “Gone Grazey” with meats, crackers, cheese and nuts to the “Vegegrazian,” designed with a focus on fruits and veggies.

Anyone with a sweet tooth might enjoy the “Sweet and Grazey,” with small but indulgent desserts, gourmet chocolates and dips.

Sizes also vary, from the Grab and Graze for $12, which offers enough for a single patron to the Large Board, which feeds up to 10 for $165. For a snack, the restaurant offers an $8 grab-and-go Char-Cutie-Cup with items such as soppressata, rosemary crackers and berries.

Graze Craze is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays and 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sundays.