The Best Independent Coffee Shops in Downtown Pittsburgh
By Layla Joseph
Sometimes the hardest part about getting your caffeine fix is choosing where to go Downtown! These eight caffeine kingdoms are privately owned by Pittsburghers and are DNA’s favorite places to recharge:
Gasoline Street Coffee: Gasoline Street Coffee is a great place to refuel. The traffic themed coffee joint has the ambiance of a vintage gas station but instead of gasoline fumes, you can inhale the smell of fresh coffee, pastries and sandwiches made locally everyday. For about the price of a gallon of diesel you can choose the fuel that’s right for you. Whether you need to charge up on frozen matcha, a house-made chai latte or one of their signature sips, you are sure to find something that fills your tank.
We recommend Tropic Thunder: while coffee is a great source of energy provided by Gasoline Street, the smoothies will give you a head-start on your day. Tropic Thunder is a tropical fruit smoothie featuring banana, strawberry, mango and pineapple; when mixed with agave and cider the consistency and flavors are hard to beat. For just a dollar more, add Whey Protein to any smoothie to ensure you never run out of steam.
Nicholas Coffee: This coffee shop remains a staple to Pittsburgh locals for over a century and accredits their success to sticking to their roots. The shop has a classic aesthetic and features gourmet coffees and teas that are sure to knock your socks off. You can either buy a cup of joe for an on-the-go pick me up or grab a bag of beans to brew at home. No matter how you like your coffee, you are sure to find something that gives you a great wake-up call.
We recommend Blueberry Coffee Cake: this spring seasonal latte can be served hot or cold, but no matter the temperature, will allow you to sip nostalgia. Espresso mixed with blueberry flavors, spiced brown sugar and your choice of milk will transport you to simpler times.
Creative Coffee and Supply: Get your creative juices flowing in a minimalistic environment with pops of plants and color. Creative coffees that are brewed in house are anything but ordinary. Energizing your afternoon has never been more fulfilling with a variety of hot and cold beverages perfect for any occasion. Whether you are yearning for a traditional cup of joe or want to venture outside your comfort zone, you are sure to enjoy every sip.
We recommend Jalapeno Agave Matcha: one of the spring specials this year is a spicy take on a classic caffeinated concoction. This iced drink brings the heat with hints of sweet, making it the perfect afternoon boost. Take your coffee to go and skip the disposable cup when you bring your own!
Bae Bae’s Cafe: Located right next to its sister-store, Bae Bae’s Cafe creates a whimsical atmosphere with maximalist decor. The vibrant colors that decorate the walls are just as energetic as the stimulating sips and Korean inspired food. The establishment focuses on feeding the community local, organic ingredients in their eccentric dishes and fun drinks. Whether you just need a boba drink to bring you back to life or want a unique sandwich to get you through the day, Bae Bae’s is a great place to grab a seat, take a picture or two for Instagram and recharge downtown.
We recommend Affogato: perfect for summer days that bring the heat, grab this sweet treat to recharge mid-day. Affogato features two scoops of vanilla ice cream capped with a single shot of fresh espresso.
Adda Coffee and Tea House: The atmosphere in Adda perfectly reflects the meaning of its name. The Bengali word represents a friendly place to meet people while enjoying conversation (and in this case, coffee). The menu varies each month as the shop showcases a different region around the world. Adda raises funds for two charities every month; allowing you to get a hand-crafted cup of joe while also making a difference to an organization in the month’s featured region and a Pittsburgh organization closer to home!
We recommend Shadyside Sunrise: a layered pick-me-up that looks as refreshing as it tastes. Sit inside and enjoy fresh pineapple juice topped with a double espresso, or take a walk around the block and explore with your rejuvenating refreshment.
Rock ‘n’ Joe: Rock ’n’ Joes allows their customers to experience high quality, hand crafted caffeinated beverages with the company of good vibes. This shop allows you to get a rock solid start on your day, providing a variety of house-made food and drinks in a cozy environment. Even though the atmosphere is relaxed, the appreciation for rock ’n’ roll is evident by the decor and the music that welcomes you when you enter.
We recommend lavender cold foam: to feel like a rockstar, grab a cold brew coffee (or iced drink of choice) and request lavender cold foam for a creamy, layered drink. Pair it with an iced lemon pound cake to get the party started.
La Prima: This cafe on Smallman Street features local roasted beans with over 20 varieties of brew to choose from. With a full espresso bar, you can achieve flavors of Italian-style without a plane ticket to Italy. What makes La Prima stand out other than their caffeinated creations is their online store that allows you to buy beans to brew at home while also offering a sales experience so you can open a fully-equipped espresso bar in the comforts of your kitchen.
We recommend Cocoa Powder, Lemon, Hazelnut: from Central America to your morning cup, this medium roast will captivate your senses. This coffee will start your day off with a sweet sip incorporating rich chocolate notes and a balance of hazelnut followed by a refreshing splash of citrus.
Soluna: A one-stop-shop for latin american cuisine, artisanal coffee and handcrafted cocktails: Soluna cultivates a Honduran coffee experience with their handcrafted caffeinated cups of coffee and tea. Surround yourself with a welcoming environment that embraces passion within their menu. Their drinks are as appealing to the eye as they are the taste buds, with vibrant flavors showcased within their seasonal drinks, frosties, frappes and teas.
We recommend Matcha and Berries: this drink is sure to give you a mental refresh. Witness your barista crush fresh blueberries and strawberries before they are engulfed with an in-house take on traditional matcha. The flavors are embraced with a mixture of sparkling lemonade and enhanced with a peppermint syrup.
