There’s a certain kind of magic you only find in small businesses in Pittsburgh. The kind that welcomes you by name on early mornings, posts handwritten signs in their windows, and greets you like an old friend even if it’s your first visit. Rather than just providing goods and services, these shops are shaping neighborhoods and caring for the community. In honor of National Mom and Pop Business Owners Day on March 29, we’re turning our attention to the independent shops and family-run favorites that give our region its distinctive personality.
We asked our staff here at TABLE Magazine and Shady Ave to share the local businesses they return to again and again, supporting them not just on March 29, but year-round.
Shop Local in Pittsburgh to Celebrate National Mom and Pop Business Owners Day
Keith Recker, Editor-in-Chief
Leona’s puts an adventurous take on ice cream. Where else can you get a scoop of black sesame ice cream? Sometimes you just want a little flavor-adventure for something new. Then, The Farmer’s Daughter also has a great retail point-of-view. There’s always a gift to buy that’s often both affordable and pleasurable, in addition to florals. It’s one of those classic main street businesses with flair. Downtown, Larrimor’s alterations department is truly skillful and they know exactly what they’re doing. They won’t let you make a mistake and you end up walking out with something that truly suits you.
Lauri Gravina, Associate Editor Shady Ave
Husband and wife Barney and Amy McGinley own Three Little Birds Café and SoMe Jewelers, a colorful shop and café combination just down the street from Hartwood Acres, a perfect stop off after a walk. The café offers homemade soups, paninis, breakfast sandwiches, a full coffee program, and fresh juices. I love the Jedi Juice with beets, spinach, kale, apple, and ginger. The large, covered porch is welcoming with cozy games on the tables, fresh flowers, and plants. I love that they also play cool music both indoors and on the porch. Wife Amy also runs the adjacent shop that sells her custom designs, jewelry from other local artisans, and an array of cool and unexpected gifts.
Ethan Chmura, Advertising and Editorial Coordinator
If you want authentic Mexican food then Las Palmas is the place to go. The staff always deliver big, comforting flavors that feel straight from the south. Plus, it’s also a grocery store where you can get essentials as well as specialty Mexican products you won’t find elsewhere. The shop has such a personal feel whenever you’re there.
Star Laliberte, Director of Operations
Family is key at John and Gerry’s Quality Fruit Market, owned and operated by Kevin and Heidi Bair. Heidi’s parents opened the fruit market long ago so it still holds that old-fashioned, small town feel. The people who shop there have shopped there for years and have become a part of the family themselves. It’s an intimate and personable experience where everyone knows your name just from picking up their excellent, fresh produce. They also have the most beautiful flower baskets available around Mother’s Day.
Kylie Thomas, Online Editor
The city of Pittsburgh has so many wonderful local book stores but Caliban Book Shop and Blythe Books are two of my favorites for their abundant stock of used books at a value price and in great condition. The corridors of Caliban are perfect for finding hidden gems while the open space of Blythe is home to author signings and other special events. Both of these shops bring readers of all ages and backgrounds together in heartfelt ways. Not to mention supporting local beats out giving money to billionaire Bezos every time. Plus, I want to give an honorable mention to KSD Tattoo for their Tiny Tat Tuesdays where special small designs are on a discount at an amazing price and completely professional quality.
Sean Collier, Editor-in-Chief Shady Ave
While the Flavor of Puerto Rico is known for their empanadas, I promise you any choice is a winner. The entrees are just as good as the empanadas such as the crispy fish that’s tasty and really reasonably priced. It’s my first choice for take-out in the city.
Evan Okun, Associate Art Director Shady Ave
The Government Center is the place to be for someone who likes music. There are live shows, plenty of new and used records, and even a cafe that turns into a bar when the sun sets. It’s also a great hub to meet people with the same interests since it has a lot of cool things all in one spot.
Janet Wizig, Director of Advertising
Each visit to Girasole is SO entertaining. Not only is the food delicious but the space and atmosphere are fun in general. It’s like being with a classic, big Italian family. Antiquarian Shop is another really great family-owned establishment. Both Jay Miller and his daughter work together to run their two locations and it’s clear to see their passion.
Mark Chutko, Associate Publisher
Eighty Acres is a well-run family-owned establishment that is off the beaten path. Not everyone knows about this restaurant but they should. Chef Don has a great resume and pulls flavors from all over the United States. Rollier’s Hardware is my go-to for a smaller, locally-owned hardware and home store. They have literally everything you could need and knowledge on hand.
Stephanie Cravotta, Director of Digital Advertising
The trip to Greensburg is absolutely worth it for The White Rabbit Cafe and Patisserie alone. Everything there is amazing no matter your taste. Their pastries are phenomenal and the oatmeal they carry exclusively in fall and winter seasons is my favorite.
Featured Photo Courtesy of Laura Petrilla
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