At 137 years old, The Original Oyster House is Pittsburgh's oldest bar and restaurant. Located in the heart of downtowns Market Square, near the courts and just across the river from the new stadiums, the unique tavern has been designated by the Pittsburgh History and Landmarks Foundation. The present owner, Louis J. Grippo, purchased the Oyster House in 1970. He is only the fifth proprietor of the tavern which has attracted politcians, judges, attorneys, sports figures, entertainers, newsmen and hundreds of thousands of others as customers. Since purchasing the Oyster House, Grippo has completely refurbished the exterior and interior, retaining and enhancing the best features of the bar's illustious past. When the Oyster House first opened in 1870, oysters sold for a penny and beer was 10 cents a glass. The enormous fish sandwiches, which require a special bun, were introduced by Louis Americus, who was the proprietor from 1916 to 1970. The delicous coating on the fish and oysters, a recipe of Mrs. Americus, is still utilized today by the kitchen staff.