On June 17, 1972, at 8PM Agnes and Mikhail opened Khalil's restaurant on 414 Semple Street in South Oakland. That night, a neighbor came to collect $20 that Agnes borrowed. Unable to pay it back, she opened her doors, served a table that night, paid her neighbor back... and the rest is history!
Khalil's opened our doors just 3 years after the first moon landing, and we are still here today because of you! Our deepest gratitude goes out to our all our guests for making us a legacy in Pittsburgh --including those who have been coming here since 1972, and who still do (this time with their children & grandchildren) -- as well as those who are discovering us for the very first time​. Thank you!
Read more about our unique family history in the Pittsburgh Post Gazette Odessey’s Profile, by Steve Mellon
Be sure to check out this video of Mikhail Khalil ... It will melt your heart
Our Story
Khalil’s is a seed planted in the earth of this great city, Pittsburgh.
Like so many immigrants who’s hard work and determination laid the groundwork which built this city, its DNA runs right through it’s veins. Like the city itself, made of hardened steel, but full of heart, Khalil's has its roots solidly planted in a firm foundation - able to withstand the challenges life may throw its way.
In 1972, Mikhail and Agnes Khalil started with humble beginnings, and through hard work, perseverance, and good old-fashioned grit to get through the worst of times - created an institution that has sustained change for over 47 years.
Like Pittsburgh, no matter how drastic the changes, our restaurant has not only maintained its core values of strong character, integrity and honesty, but has evolved into a more magnificent and thriving establishment.
From the heart of founders Agnes & Mikhail Khalil, we welcome you to our humble establishment, Khalil's - those who have been with us for 47 years, as well as those who are just discovering us for the first time - we say with a hearty welcome...
he Krak des Chevaliers sits atop Wadi al Nasara (The Valley of the Christians, Syria) overlooking roughly 30 Antiochian Orthodox Christian villages, including Miklos & I'mabara, where Mikhail & Agnes are from.
It is one of the most well preserved medieval castles in the world & a UNESCO World Heritage Site