Because busy people drink coffee, we have a well informed point of view to share with our readers about sources of this essential drink during Pittsburgh Coffee Week. Ramp up your productivity with a cup of twelve of ‘Burgh-brewed Joe, but be quick about it: we may well be just behind you in line!!!
All Week
October 15 to October 21, Oatly and La Marzocco will be running special events at shops across the rivers.
Sunday, October 15
The week starts with Colombino Coffee and Cacao in Bethel Park. The shop celebrates its newest location with its second annual AeroPress Competition. You can watch baristas compete while enjoying live music and cocktails. Sunday also brings Oliver’s Donuts to Row House Cinema for a night of films and treats titled “Before The Coffee Gets Cold.” The theater will show the Japanese film Café Funiculi Funicula in the spirit of Coffee Week.
Monday, October 16
Have you ever wondered what coffee drink matches your soul? Wonder no longer. At Field Day in Lawrenceville, you can fill out a short questionnaire, and a barista will pick out a drink that suits your personality. Anita Buzzy-Prentiss will be available for portrait sessions, plus all the proceeds will go to SisTers.
Even if you’re not thirsty, you can head over to Bellevue Beans to learn all about the history of espresso. Learn how it has evolved throughout the years to become a key ingredient in many dishes. Baristas will also give a live demonstration of espresso’s use in espresso martinis and affogato desserts.
Tuesday, October 17
If you’ve wanted a chance to become a barista, join the coffee prep competition at 19 Coffee Company in South Hills. Whether you’ve never made a cup of coffee before or you’re a pro, you can try your hand at winning various prizes.
After all that hard work, take a break at Maxine’s Fall Fest at Maxine’s Coffee. Enjoy the patio in Cranberry Township into the night, accompanied by live music. Get a fall-themed beverage, then join friends around the fire for s’mores and raffle prizes.
Wednesday, October 18
Looking to enjoy the spooky side of Halloween? Reginald’s Coffee in Bethel Park is ready to bring you the frights. The cafe is located inside an old schoolhouse that’s rumored to be haunted. Learn about these ghost stories and dress your best to win coffee-themed prizes in the costume competition.
Keep the party going with Victoria Arduino and Espresso Analyst’s night of cocktails and coffee. Guests can try the new Pure Brew technology from the Black Eagle Maverick. This technology brews at a high quality with on-demand extraction. It’s an excellent opportunity for those looking to expand their brewing machine collection.
Thursday, October 19
Another shop supporting a local non-profit during Coffee Week is Redstart Roasters at Square Cafe. Indulge in coffee cocktails to help support The National Aviary, just one of Redstart Roasters’ sustainability efforts after receiving the Smithsonian Bird-Friendly Coffee Certification. Make sure to try their coffee flights, mocktails, and lattes all for a good cause.
Friday, October 20
Books and coffee go together like peanut butter and jelly. White Whale Bookstore in Bloomfield combines these two with readings by Pittsburgh barista writers. These baristas write several different genres and forms for a variety of stories. The cafe will have drinks available, themed after books by local authors.
After a relaxing week, the weekend brings high-energy competitions to close the holiday. De Fer Coffee and Tea in the Strip District hosts the first event, a Coffee Cocktail Competition. The shop will provide contestants with coffee and locally distilled spirits to create the best signature drink. Audience members can watch the showdown while tasting food and beverages.
Saturday, October 21
Finally, Pittsburgh Coffee Week finishes with the biggest contest of the week, the Latte Art Throwdown with La Marzocco. It takes place at Commonplace Coffee in Rockwell Park. Sign-ups for the 32 participants start at 5:30 p.m. for $10, with the throwdown at 6:30 pm. Onlookers can sip on cocktails by Kingfly Spirits and try bites by Mana Meals. It’s the big end party to a week of celebration.
Story by Kylie Thomas
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