Nestled just three miles from Downtown, the Bloomfield and Garfield neighborhoods can be found along and around Liberty Avenue and Penn Avenue. Bloomfield was settled by the Italians from the Abruzzi region and is known by some as “Pittsburgh’s Little Italy.” Garfield, on the other hand, has been known as a creative arts district for almost 25 years. These days the area has evolved into a bustling community full of small, family-owned businesses and restaurants. Here are our favorite spots for you to try!

Novakowski Photography

Are you recently engaged, getting married, family and group shots, or even photos of your beloved pet? Novakowski Photography is the perfect place to look! This Pittsburgh-native believes that high-quality photos that you love should still be affordable. Once you’re finished, Novakowski can even turn your prints into things like calendars or a coaster to make a one-of-a-kind keepsake! 

American Discount Uniform

Whether you’re starting a brand new job or just ready for a refresh, American Discount Uniform is your one-stop-shop for all of your uniform needs. This family-owned business services hospitals, nursing facilities and medical offices with scrubs, lab coats, shoes and accessories. Fan-favorite brands like Grey’s Anatomy, Healing Hands, IRG, Cherokee, Dickies and more can be found here. They offer customized embroidery as well. In 2019, American Discount Uniform was awarded Retailer of the Year! 

Arts & Crafts Botanica Occult Shop

Feeling witchy this fall season? Head to Arts & Crafts Botanica Occult Shop for all of your spiritual needs. With over 100 types of incense, crystals, herbs, and candles this shop has become known as the “Target for Witches!” You can find products for VooDoo, Santeria, Traditional Witchcraft, and Wicca. Their staff also offers tarot readings, home and spiritual cleansings, and reiki. 

Senseless

Established in 2016, this black-owned and operated business has become a popular cultural hub for those in the area. They have been curating streetwear fashions and pride themselves on their unique selections of products ranging from sneakers to vintage tees. Senseless guarantees to provide a unique experience for all of their customers. 

Yoga Hive

The Yoga Hive believes in creating an authentic community of teachers and students where everyone feels welcome. Whether you’re stepping on the mat for the first time or a seasoned yogi, the teachers at The Yoga Hive will meet you where you are. The specialize in power + vinyasa, meditation + prayaama, and yoga as therapy. Currently, class sizes are limited and pre-registration is required to ensure safe social-distance practices. 

Comfort Keepers

Nominated as 2019 Top Workplace by employees at the Pittsburgh Post Gazette, Comfort Keepers provides essential in-home care for seniors. Their high-quality, compassionate care will provide the peace of mind needed for you to know that your loved ones are in good hands. Comfort Keepers will build lasting relationships with your family members while helping with tasks like picking up prescriptions and groceries. All caregivers are specially trained to provide the utmost quality of companionship and care. 

Taquitos

The bold flavors of Mexico can be found at Taquitos. Their delicious cuisine is a blend of pre-Hispanic and Spanish influences and has been perfected over generations. Taquitos began as a small family-owned cart to their brick and mortar in Garfield. You can still find them at local food-truck roundups and local events throughout western PA. Order online, hire their catering team for your next celebration, or try some of their fast-service sit down. 

Los Sabrosos Dance Co.

This dance and fitness organization is dedicated to helping people find the freedom of self-expressions through dance. Build your confidence through their specialized workshops and classes. Los Sabrosos Dance Co. offers Latin, Kids Classes, Ballroom, Yoga, Bellydance, Ballet, Wedding classes and more! They give back to the community by offering discounted prices for student-youth, low-income individuals, veterans, and seniors. All people of all ages are encouraged to attend! 

Leone’s Florist

Located in the heart of Bloomfield, Leone’s Florist has been serving the community for over 32 years with their home-grown flowers. Many of their stems come straight from their gardens in Shadyside or they source specialty flowers from local farms, Holland, California, and Ecuador. Leone’s Florist offers wedding and event options along with funeral and memorial services. Their quality customer service and deliveries will ensure that you have nothing to worry about on any special occasion. 

This content was provided by a local, independent contributor to Made in PGH, a lifestyle blog.