Amazing coffee shops in Pittsburgh that aren’t Starbucks
Cause we’re all over that shit at this point
Coffee is the fuel of all students everywhere. It’s what makes the world go round, the GPA stay put. We all love it, we all need it and we crave it…constantly. The issue is, we have decided to pretty much rely solely on the goodness of Starbucks. Yes, the holy grail of coffee and the machine that eats up all our cash. What if I told you there are other options to quench your caffeine thirst that won’t cost you an arm and a leg and are actually tastier than your pumpkin spice latte with three pumps of straight sugar?
Zeke’s Coffee
Located on Penn Avenue, this little shop won’t break your bank and is friendly to all diets and dietary restrictions. It’s a small local business with house-made ingredients.
Redhawk Coffee
Right on Meyran, this shop is great for grab-and-go, as there is little seating. Oakland residents will tell you the coffee is amazing, as is the staff. The shop got five-star reviews on yelp from literally everyone.
Crazy Mocha
On the corner of Oakland Ave and Forbes (next to Fuel and Fuddle) is one of a few in the area, but this location is a favorite of many students. Easy accessible when on campus, it is student friendly with seating next to outlets. The coffee is also amazing, and made by an expert barista who everyone loves.
61C Cafe
This cafe located on Murray Avenue only takes cash, but also has low prices. It is a quieter place with outdoor seating and is a good stop before heading to the theatre or going shopping. “61C is one of my personal favorites because it has a very 90’s vibe to it,” junior anthropology and psychology major Kelly Schenk told us. “The staff that works there are warm and inviting, as is the store. It’s perfect for studying because the tables are only big enough to fit about one person.”
Coffee Tree Roasters
This place on Fox Chapel road is a really local coffee shop. Schenk, says, “the staff that works there are the “usual” crew, such that if you go often enough, they will recognize you.” The coffeehouse also has a lot of loyal customers, so the usual crew will recognise each other. If you’re looking for a place to meet locals and drink great coffee, this is the location for you!
Commonplace Coffee
Schenk tells us that this cafe is also a local chain, and has the best espresso in Pittsburgh. “It is extremely earthy and relaxing, and the owners seem to care an extreme amount about where they source their products from,” Schenk told us. It is located on Julius Street and is known for chatting with customers about their locally sources coffee beans and the process of roasting. They also share a space with East End Brewing, so visitors can try some beer with their coffee!
Add Coffee & Tea House
This shop is perhaps the most unique and authentic of all the coffee shops in Pittsburgh. Students can get a great cup of coffee and study in the quiet atmosphere along with very fast wifi. It is a great environment to get work done in because of its brightness. “It has a very international feel, mixing notes from all over the world in one place. It is the epitome of a small neighborhood café,” Schenk said. With an eclectic menu and space to work or chat, this is the perfect place for students to get work done whether alone or in a group!