She definitely meant Pamelas. There's one on Forbes in Oakland near Towers, one on Forbes in Squirrel Hill and one on Walnut Street in Shadyside.
Welcome to Pamela's Diner: Pittsburgh
Best pancakes/ hotcakes anywhere. President Obama liked them so much he had Pamelas come cater a Memorial Day breakfast at the White House.
President flips over Pamela's flapjacks Obama takes a liking to Pamela's pancakes
This might not be such an attraction to parents but East Carson Street on the Southside (between Southside Works and Station Square) has probably the longest strip of bars in the US. There's plenty of restaurants and shops too. (Fatheads or Marios have good college student friendly food.)
Check out the top of Mt. Washington for the view and some good restaurants - Monterey Bay Fish Company is pricy but good for a special occasion dinner.