10 local coffeeshops to check out in Pittsburgh
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Pittsburgh is home to a growing lineup of independent coffeeshops. Since relocating here, Mike and I have been enjoying at least one local shop per weekend we are in town. We have lived in a lot of cities around the country, and this is no doubt one of the best overall cities for coffee lovers. There are so many diverse options and a lot of them (the city has one of the highest per capita rate of coffeeshops according to this article).
No longer are Starbucks and Dunkin’ Donuts your only options when it comes to enjoying one of life’s greatest simple pleasures outside of the house. Sipping a cup of joe in a cozy local coffeeshop on the weekend is a great budget friendly activity to enjoy anytime of the year.
With various options spread throughout the city’s diverse neighborhoods, there is an option for you, no matter your personal style or where your day’s adventures may take you. We love sipping on an Americano or mocha before exploring the city’s great attractions like The Carnegie museums, the PPG Zoo and Aquarium, and the Duquesne Incline.
We have tried out the majority of local options during our time living here, and while most were decent, there are those we come back to time and time again. My guide features 10 of these local gems, with each offering a different scene, and style. Best of all, I tried to include those located within close proximity to some of the city’s top attractions so you can cut down on your driving time.
1. La Prima Espresso
- Locations: Strip District
- What to try: Americano
- What to do nearby: Pick up a sweet treat at Colangelo’s Bakery, Explore The Strip District
La Prima serves high quality Italian espresso and coffee. They offer over 20 varieties of locally roasted beans, including blends, single origin, seasonal and decaf options for purchase. They operate several cafes throughout the city, my favorite location being The Strip District.
This cafe features outdoor seating and is located nearby many Strip attractions like local restaurants, bakeries, and ethnic grocers. We like to enjoy a drink here and then take a walk or bike ride on the nearby Three Rivers Heritage Path down to historic Point State Park.
Although they serve no food, you can order a delicious pastry next door at Colangelo’s Bakery. I recommend treating yourself to an authentic Italian cannoli, a chocolate croissant, Danish, or Sfogliatella. They are pricey, but worth a splurge. Unfortunately, many smokers gather here which is the only negative thing I have to say. If smoking bothers you (I hate it!), visit the AC Hotels location (near the Heinz History center).
2. Commonplace Coffee
- Location: Mexican War Streets
- What to try: coffee cake, morning Glory muffin, americano
- What to do nearby: Take a walk and enjoy the lovely architecture – it’s one of the city’s most historic neighborhoods (Allegheny Commons park across the street is gorgeous). If you are into funky attractions, check out Randyland, a colorful outdoor art exhibit open free to the public.
What started as a single cafe in the small community of Indiana has now blossomed into 8 shops including 4 in the ‘ Burgh region. Commonplace serves specialty coffee plus local pastries in a beautiful historic space. Although the food selection is limited, everything we have tried is quite good especially the coffee cake. Plus, the presentation is quite fancy compared to other options in the region, making this one of our favorite weekend date spots.
We visit the charming Mexican War Streets cafe in one of Pittsburgh’s oldest neighborhoods. The attractive setting amongst old Victorian row houses is quite nice. The quaint outdoor patio is perfect for relaxing during the milder spring and fall season. This one tends to stay pretty quiet and is mostly populated by older adults and couples.
On one negative note, the interior can get way too sunny during the summer months (I need to wear sunglasses inside) due to the large windows. If the sun bothers you, I recommend visiting on an overcast day for the most comfortable experience.
3. Mediterra
- Location: Sewickley
- What to try: House coffee, blueberry muffin, chocolate croissant, artisan bread, shakshuka
- What to do in the vicinity: Check out the local shops of downtown Sewickley. This charming tree-line Main St. is lined with independent businesses.
This wonderful Mediterranean cafe offers 2 convenient locations: historic downtown Sewickley and Mt. Lebanon. Update: They opened new cafes in Lawrenceville & Cranberry (this does not surprise me – they are so busy all the time).
At this wonderful cafe, you can enjoy fresh artisan bread, specialty pastries, great coffee, and delicious healthy breakfast and lunch entrees all in the same place. They serve the best coffee and offer the nicest ambiance anywhere in the metro. I’m willing to wait for the food and drinks as they are so good (that being said, I tried to get to the Sewickley cafe right when it opens).
First off, their homemade bread is amazing – do try the Ref Fife or sprouted spelt. Entrees to try include Milk Bread French Toast, Shakshuka, Avocado Toast, and Quiche. The pastry selection is amazing – seriously, I’ve never seen a better selection anywhere. This is my favorite bakery of all time. Everything from the fresh blueberry muffins, to the chocolate croissants, to homemade pop tarts and cinnamon rolls are worthy of the caloric splurge! We have tried so many goodies and everything is perfect. Mike really loves their cinnamon rolls and I love their seasonal danishes.
Bonus: you receive points for each visit. After 10 points, you will receive a free loaf of bread, a coffee, or pastry! Let’s just say, I have racked up many free pastries and loaves of bread!
My guide to the best Mediterra pastries.
4. Convive Coffee
- Location: McCandless, Mars, North Shore, Lawrenceville
- What to try: Banana chip muffin, house dark roast
- What to do nearby: Shop, see a movie, and eat at McCandless Crossing
Convive, a family run business, offers 4 locations so it’s easy to get to no matter what part of the ‘Burgh you are exploring for the day. I usually end up at the McCandless location before shopping at Trader Joe’s which is conveniently located in the same plaza. I love sipping on endless dark roast coffee in the quiet setting and getting to Trader Joe’s right at opening! This place is usually pretty deserted in the morning so we enjoy the quiet time before a full day of stress on the computer.
The coffee here is really strong (but not burnt) and I love that you can get your own refill via self service. The only negative thing I have to say is that the food selection is a bit limited and on the pricey side, however, I do enjoy their muffins.
5. Defer
- Location: Strip District
- What to try: Matcha tea cake, americano
- What to do nearby: Shop for authentic Italian goods at Pennsylvania Marconi Company.
Defer is a wonderful local coffeehouse with 4 ‘Burgh locations including Market Square downtown and the Strip District. The vibe is trendy and hipster and the decor colorful and eye catching. The Strip District location features beautiful brick walls for the ultimate historic touch in an old neighborhood. The eccentric artwork and diverse crowd always keeps things interesting.
What sets this cafe apart from others for me is the wonderful assortment of healthy menu items. Recent healthier fare I’ve seen include: chia seed pudding, raspberry lemon poppy seed oatmeal, sweet potato and chickpea hand pie, and toast with avocado/hummus or cashew butter.
One time I tried the most delicious green tea Matcha cake topped with orange lime buttercream and pistachios. It’s packed with powerful green tea antioxidants so at least it’s a little bit healthier. They always offer something different so you will have something new to look forward to.
6. Redstart Roasters
- Location: East Liberty
- What to try: Drip
- What to do nearby: Visit The National Aviary. It’s a cool place for any bird lovers out there and one of my top picks during the long cold winter season.
This artisan small batch roaster is quite unique in that they have received the Smithsonian Migratory Bird Center Bird-Friendly coffee certification. They source beans from sustainable farms which preserve bird habitats. One of their partners in sustainability is top rated attraction, The National Aviary. If you are a bird lover, you might want to put this one on your bucket list. It’s a perfect complimentary activity.
Numerous roasts are available, light or medium with different tasting profiles. I love the flavor of the medium roasts. The ambiance here is beautiful and spacious with an airy, clean, and well-maintained appeal. With lots of chargers, lamps, and a large table, it’s also a great place to read or work. They don’t offer much food which is the only downside.
7. Big Dog Coffee
- Location: Southside Flats
- What to try: Everything bagel with cream cheese, house coffee
- What to do nearby: Shop and dine at Southside Works
This spacious, quiet coffeeshop is a great place to work, meet up with friends, or just relax on a leisurely weekend morning. Unlike more cramped and rowdy coffeeshops, the ambiance here is inviting and tranquil. This is one of the places I go to when I want a more lowkey experience.
There are plenty of places to enjoy a seat all to yourself by a cozy fireplace, as well as a shady patio for the milder months. The decor is colorful and eclectic (I love the unique artwork!) giving you something to look at while you sip your drink.
They serve premier Intelligentsia coffee and offer a variety of pastries. Also, there’s smoothies and juice drinks for anyone avoiding caffeine. It’s also one of the few coffeshops to offer bagels, so definitely a plus for me.
Note: on one negative note, the coffee is served a bit too lukewarm (I like mine really hot!).
8. Delanie’s
- Location: South side
- What to try: Veggie Quiche
- What to do nearby: Check out Station Square, an entertainment complex home to several popular chains (Tupelo Honey, Melting Pot), the Gateway Clipper cruise, and the iconic Duquesne Incline (I love the city view here!).
Delanie’s is one of the better options for those seeking a cozy setting away from the university and tourist areas. The attractive 2 floor layout really sets it apart from other local coffeehouses. The brick walls and eccentric art make the vibe totally unique. You know you are not in a Starbucks as soon as you walk in!
This place is definitely cozy, inviting, and local. The drinks are excellent, as are the pastries which come from a variety of local businesses. The best item I’ve tried here is their delicious veggie quiche – a bit pricey, but worth the splurge.
9. Margaux
- Location: East Liberty
- What to try: Almond croissant, Americano, house coffee
- What to do nearby: Take a stroll around beautiful Highland Park, featuring walking trails, a seasonal water fountain, and flower gardens
One of the newest to the scene is also the best for anyone seeking a high end coffeehouse experience. This European style cafe in the East Liberty neighborhood serves specialty coffee, desserts, a decent sized breakfast menu, and pastries, in a gorgeous setting.
The vibe is tranquil and refined and the space is big, open, filled with plants, and bright. I like visiting this one during the winter season when the skies are gloomy.
I also love the cozy couches and relaxing chairs as opposed to stiff tables – this is a place where you can lounge for a bit. They serve specialty espresso drinks but I come here for the extravagant pastries (I recommend the almond croissant!). Service is great and refills on house coffee is a big perk!
10. Cafe Conmigo
- Location: Wexford
- What to try: Americano
- What to do nearby: U-pick at Soergel’s Orchards, Enjoy homemade soup and sandwiches at Zuppa’s (it’s the best deli in the metro).
This newer addition is my top choice if you love plants – I’ve never seen so many jam packed into a small space. If you love plants and greenery, then you will definitely want to place a visit to Cafe Conmigo high on your bucket list. I love coming here during the winter months when the trees are barren – it’s a real pick me up to see so much fresh greenery.
This is a wonderful cafe to relax or meet up with friends in the most tranquil and zen setting in the metro. There are lots of cozy seats where you can kick back and enjoy a great cup of joe (beans come from local roaster Commonplace so this is plus). As a bonus, they serve treats from local bakery Mediterra (and also offer a number of GF and vegan treats) and have a ton of plants available for sale. Bonus: leashed dogs are welcome!
A few more local gems I recommend
I wouldn’t necessarily put these cafes on the top of your list or go out of your way to visit, however, they are an okay choice if you happen to be in the vicinity.
Carnegie Coffee – This spacious coffeehouse is located in an old post office in downtown Carnegie. They serve Lavazza, a well respected brand which I often brew at home. The spacious layout and eclectic decor make this one worthy of a visit. I love the old time telephone booth and colorful furniture.
Redhawk (Sharpsburg) – While I am personally not a fan of the atmosphere, the drinks here are quite good. The historic building is nice, but the vibe feels a bit bleak and depressing. On a positive note, the staff is very nice.
Orbis – Cute local coffee shop and cafe in downtown Mt. Lebanon. The space is attractive and very clean. They offer a nice selection of pastries, great bagels, and tasty breakfast food (including delicious veggie quiche). The setting is quaint, the drip very good (although sadly no refills), and location convenient. We usually stop here before shopping at Trader Joe’s or visiting a local park for ice skating in the winter.
Yinz (N. Ave) – Popular local coffee chain with 8 locations. Drinks are great and the sports decor is a nice bonus at the North side location. Food options are limited and drip coffee is unfortunately only served in paper cups.
Coffee Tree Roasters – Locally owned coffeeshop with numerous locations. Serves single farm sourced coffee from around the world. Be on the lookout for seasonal specials including a delicious White hot chocolate. The downside is the food is sub par and wrapped in plastic. The Shadyside location is particularly spacious and attractive.
*For anyone who loves traveling for great coffee, you will want to browse my Local Coffeehouses Guide where I have spotlighted my awesome finds after years of traveling and moving around the US. There are hidden gems pretty much everywhere.
In addition to this coffeehouse guide, I also recommend taking a look at my best restaurants in the ‘Burgh guide. I had a hard time finding vegetarian fare at first, but the entrees I’ve tried have all been pretty delicious. This is a great city if you love sports bars, hearty sandwiches, and pierogies.
Also be sure to check out my Pennsylvania Travel Guide for detailed info on the best city attractions. If you are up for a roadtrip, I also have a lot of advice on the best things to do in Philadelphia.
