Chain coffee shops are a dime a dozen; they’re crowded, generic, and owned by corporate executives. Thankfully in Pittsburgh, there’s a collection of small and locally owned shops and roasteries providing an escape from the basic, chain-coffee experience.
Speaking of which, here they are, our current favorite Pittsburgh coffee shops combining community, atmosphere and carefully crafted coffee (and espresso, and tea) to make every visit worthwhile.
Redhawk
Go to Redhawk coffee in Oakland, or have them come to you. Redhawk offers their very own coffee truck to take your event to the next level, an idea we’re completely obsessed with. When booking, you get the chance to create your own menu and personalize the options.
Espresso A Mano
New location alert!! What you could’ve only found on Butler Street, Espresso A Mano recently opened their second location on East Carson Street on the South Side. Offering up many different brands of coffee and goodies, you can always find gluten free and vegan friendly options.
Allegheny Coffee and Tea Exchange
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The heart of the Strip District is where Allegheny Coffee and Tea calls home. This is not your average coffee shop, and saying we love it is an understatement. Pick out your favorite coffee and tea blends to create your own unique flavor. At Allegheny Coffee you say what goes. Fill up a growler with Nitro coffee on tap for yourself or give it as a unique gift. Pick up teas from all over the world or coffee that you can take home in bulk. Either way we promise you will leave satisfied.
California Coffee Bar
California Coffee in the North Side is the perfect place to feel at home while getting work done, or just cozying up and enjoying a great cup of organic brew. This coffee bar has something for everyone, from coffee and tea to protein shakes and raw juices. Feeling hungry? They’ve got you covered. Enjoy a hearty and healthy breakfast, delicious pastries, or a quick warm lunch (seriously, try the chicken salad).
Fort Pitt
Fort Pitt Coffee can be found on the edge of all the hustle and bustle of downtown on Market Street, and is a perfect location for those who work downtown. Don’t work downtown? That’s A-Okay – this crew wants to take care of you. Find free thirty minute parking right across the street.Not only can they brew a mean cappuccino, Fort Pitt also has their own bottle iced tea that is nothing short of delicious.
Big Dog
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A coffee shop that has a wood burning fireplace, patio, eye-popping art on the walls, an oatmeal bar AND serves Intelligentsia? This must be a dream. No, that’s a standard day at Big Dog. The lengthy list of teas, plenty of pastries, stellar staff and cozy atmosphere truly put this place over the top and is perfect for escaping the bustle over at South Side Works.
La Prima
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What began as a plan to sell and service commercial espresso machines has transformed into a cultural gathering place in the Strip District, a keystone for the community. Now La Prima is the place for culture, character, and a shot of espresso that will transport you to the old world. Grab a cupito to stay warm while you stroll Smallman and Penn Ave.
Constellation Coffee
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The answer to your caffeine cravings may be written in the stars. Enter Constellation Coffee located on Penn Avenue in Lawrenceville. The space and espresso are like something out of a dream. Beans from Ceremony Coffee Roasters and massive windows make for a stellar espresso sipping experience.
Delanie’s Coffee
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If you’re not looking for it, there’s a good chance you’ll miss this spot along East Carson Street, which is a total shame. Their open-air storefront, art gallery vibes, and second floor loft make for a unique environment. But it’s the variety of food options, like waffles, sandwiches and salads, that really set this place apart from other grab and go coffee spots.
Coffee Buddha
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This spot is less of a coffee shop and more of a coffee house, literally. Near the North Side, the coffee laden drinks are on point. But it’s the atmosphere that truly sets this place apart – including great big rooms upstairs that make you feel like you’re working from home (without the distractions), a pet friendly porch and patio, plus regular food truck roundups.
Tazza D’oro
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“Cup of gold.” That’s what Tazza D’oro means in Italian. And in Pittsburgh, Tazza D’oro means quality, community and great coffee. Tazza has become a staple in the Highland Park neighborhood and newly in Millvale by focusing on barista training, preparing the best coffee available and sourcing food and milk locally. Head here to hideaway on a snowy day and warm up.
The Commonplace Coffeehouse
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A roastery and coffeehouse combo, the Commonplace Company serves coffee and espresso by the cup, as well as beans by the bag. The good news is, you’re probably pretty close to one right now, with locations inside Smallman Galley, on the Mexican War Streets, in Garfield, and in Squirrel Hill. Whichever location you choose, we promise your coffee and espresso will be exceptional.
Biddle’s Escape
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This eclectic coffee shop is funky, groovy and puts the hip in hipster. It’s also an art gallery, performance hall and literary workshop. Sure, they’ve got all of the caffeinated essentials and tea to boot. Plus the huge outdoor deck, pinball machine in back and recurring food truck Wednesday add to the growing list of reasons people are electing to escape to Biddle’s.
Lili Coffee Shop
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Since opening in 2010 Lili has become a centerpiece of Polish Hill. At the same time this place remains a relative unknown to the rest of the city. No more, we say! Next time you’re going between the East End and Downtown, stop in Polish Hill. You can grab a coffee, healthy eats (including vegan and vegetarian options) browse a comic book store and vinyl records all in the same building.
Zeke’s
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Zekes is definitely taking over the PGH coffee scene in the best way possible. Thanks to Pittsburgh’s supportive community, Zeke’s completed a successful crowdfunding campaign that helped them beat the bulldozer! Aside from the eclectic, open space in East Liberty, you can find them at a variety of shops and cafes around the city.
Carnegie Coffee Company
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For all of the Burghers out there who aren’t afraid to cross a bridge, and are willing to take on a tunnel, be sure to stop by this outside-the-city spot. It’s a short trip to this former post office, turned coffee shop. Once inside you won’t want to leave. The stunning two story windows, detailed architecture, rich wood floors and, of course, carefully brewed coffee can easily turn a quick stop into a day trip.
