A guide to Pittsburgh: Check out what Shadyside has to offer
On Pittsburgh’s East End sits a neighborhood with an abundance of sights, stores and places to grab a bite. Shadyside was labeled “Our Greenwich Village” by the Pittsburgh Press in the 1960s and ‘70s.
A former railroad town, its name is derived from a Pennsylvania Railroad station’s “shady” lanes in the area during the 1800s, and also housed an oil refinery and iron furnace. Shadyside’s historic value is still seen through the architecture of its houses, churches and buildings, many of which date back to the late 1800s and early 1900s.
Shadyside Presbyterian Church was built in 1889 and Rodef Shalom in 1906, both of which still stand strong today. The artsy feel remains prevalent in the area and is enjoyed by people of all ages. Its main shopping districts are found on Walnut Street and Ellsworth Avenue, chock full of independent establishments and boutiques. There are also a handful of chain stores: an Apple store, Banana Republic, Patagonia, Lululemon, Williams-Sonoma and Gap are all on Walnut Street.
“It’s easy walking, easy parking and a good exposure for retail,” said Sara Hargreaves, who owns the stationery and printing store Scribe in Shadyside. “It’s a destination for families, especially on weekends.”
Hargreaves is a board member of the Shadyside Chamber of Commerce.
“We have a wide variety of offerings from casual food and upscale dining to specialty goods, women’s clothing stores and jewelers,” she said. “Personally, I would not want to be anywhere else but the Shadyside retail district.”
Here are some things to check out:
Landmarks
Pittsburgh Center for Arts & Media – A non-profit organization with many opportunities for someone looking to pick up a new skill or hobby, Pittsburgh Center for Arts & Media is a hub for Pittsburgh artists. The center offers a wide variety of classes in media arts, ceramics, painting and drawing, and much more to choose from. They host artist exhibitions, offer residencies and summer camps. They also typically hold an annual “yART Sale” on the front lawn in the summer, described as half yard sale, half art show for vendors and artists to sell original works.
Mellon Park Spray Park – On a hot, summer day bring little ones to run around and splash. This beautiful park and garden also has a playground and a basketball court and baseball diamond.
Roslyn Street – This historic street is one of the last wooden paved streets in the country, and likely the last in Pennsylvania. Built in 1914, the street is difficult for through traffic to maneuver since it was originally intended for horses and carriages. It is a great place to stop and take a stroll.
Food and drink
Mercurio’s – This authentic pizza and gelato spot offers a fresh taste of Italian cuisine with a family-owned feel. Two years ago, the restaurant expanded and opened a secondary location in the Fox Chapel area.
Prantl’s Bakery – If you’ve tried a burnt almond torte, it had to be from Prantl’s. The renowned bakery offers Pittsburghers an array of tasty sweets for every season. The flagship location in Shadyside has been operating for more than 100 years.
Cappy’s Café – This pub offers a wide variety of beers on tap and in cans, as well as unique cocktails like the Lavendar Taquini and Elderflower Fizz. With an abundance of food options to match, Cappy’s also serves breakfast on weekend days.
Cafe Moulin - Sweet and savory crepes are a hit at this Filbert Street French cafe.
Girasole (733 Copeland St.) – Tucked away on Copeland Street, right off of Walnut, is another authentic Italian spot. Girasole offers pasta dishes with a seasonally rotating menu. Bring family or friends and peruse the extensive wine list.
Adda Coffee & Tea House – The bright ambiance and quality of this coffeehouse makes it a great place to sit, study or work, and enjoy a pick-me-up. The store also puts on a weekly “Sunday Showcase” live stream featuring Pittsburgh-based artists. The proceeds of the event go to a local charity.
Pamela’s Diner – One of Pittsburgh’s affectionately loved breakfast spots, Pamela’s in Shadyside is located on Walnut Street. For 93 years, Pittsburghers have sipped on warm coffee and enjoyed hearty breakfasts – they’re known for their hotcakes and home fries.
Noodlehead (242 S. Highland Ave.)– This beloved Thai and street noodle spot is cash only, but many say it’s worth the extra hassle. Pork belly steamed buns are a popular item. Be prepared to wait in line.
Casbah (229 S Highland Ave.) – Owned by big Burrito Restaurant Group, Casbah has an extensive wine list and specializes in Mediterranean food.
Mario’s East Side Saloon – This watering hole used to be Doc’s Place. Now, it’s Mario’s. It’s got a deck upstairs, bar food, plenty of televisions and 20-somethings.
Shady Grove – Come for the outdoor seating. Stay for the tasty appetizers, beer list, wraps and sandwiches. The sidewalk tables are to be seen and people-watch outside in the summertime.
Soba (5847 Ellsworth Ave.) – Another big Burrito restaurant, Soba boasts Asian fusion, small plates and swanky decor.
William Penn Tavern – Dubbed as an “eclectic sports tavern,” this spot is a favorite among the area’s young professionals.
Related:
• A guide to Pittsburgh: Check out what Lawrenceville has to offer
Stores
Four Winds Gallery – If you’re looking for a handcrafted piece of jewelry, this gallery offers artisan pieces made by Native American artists. Specifically, the gallery holds many turquoise pieces along with artwork, pottery and more.
Kards Unlimited – The hole-in-the-wall gift and card shop has been serving Walnut Street since 1968. It’s more than easy to get lost browsing here. The store offers everything from fun, eclectic knick-knacks, artisan jewelry and countless books to choose from.
Petagogy (5880 Ellsworth Ave.) – Shopping local isn’t just for humans. Petagogy on Ellsworth Avenue has everything from food, toys, treats and accessories for dogs and cats.
Scribe (731 1/2 Filbert St.) — This Filbert Street shop specializes in printing, stationery, invitations, letterhead, business cards, penmanship.
Shadyside Variety Store – On the corner of Walnut and Copeland Street, shoppers come across a whimsical toy store. Many varieties of toys and novelty gifts can be found for children and families alike.
Synthesis – This modern, desert-style boutique offers a wide variety of succulents, cacti and plants, as well as ceramics and other goods.
Interesting places
The Inn on Negley (703 S. Negley Ave.)– This quaint, eight-bedroom inn brings visitors back to the colonial period as one of Shadyside’s earliest buildings, originally built in 1884. According to their website, the chaplain who built and sold the building resided there with his family for 70 years, and it incorporates Italianate, Victorian and emerging Queen Anne elements. The design still shines through today, as visitors travel to enjoy high tea or a bed and breakfast stay.
Steel City Improv Theater (5950 Ellsworth Ave.) – This fun group located on Ellsworth offers opportunities to pick up a new hobby or catch a show. Steel City, or SCIT, even offers free sample classes for individuals looking to get involved. Performances are typically in the evenings with an admission of $5.
Ellsworth Avenue – Walnut Street isn’t the only hangout destination in Shadyside. Ellsworth Avenue is walkable with a bevy of shops and food spots.
Events
Shadyside Arts Festival – The neighborhood opens its blocks during the summer to support artists and vendors. With an outdoor gallery feel, visitors browse tents and exhibits for unique finds. This year, the event is slated for Aug. 27-28 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The upcoming festival marks its 25th anniversary.
Jam on Walnut – This highly anticipated outdoor concert series is traditionally held in the area’s core, Walnut Street, during the summer. Live music and people flood the street to enjoy the street party. The 2021 event benefitted Animal Friends and Bow Wow Buddies Foundation.
Pupwalk – Since 2013, dog lovers can visit Shadyside with their pup. Participants take part in a 1-mile walk around the area and enjoy dog-friendly restaurants and stores to follow, many of which are accustomed to allowing dogs in the walkable neighborhood.
Jordan Schmitt is a Tribune-Review digital producer. You can contact Jordan by email at jschmitt@triblive.com or via Twitter .
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