Article Updated April 13, 2026 by Amanda Reed
Lawrenceville is one of the best areas in Pittsburgh to shop locally, whether for the holiday season or beyond. When you buy local, you support our local economy, which creates jobs, boosts investment in our streetscapes, and builds greater economic resilience.
Shopping small also gives you better, more personal service than Amazon could ever deliver, pun intended. Shopkeepers tend to get to know you: They see you when you’re out to dinner; they wave to you at the grocery; plus, they know what’s important to you. All of that comes into play every time you enter their spaces.
You’re also more likely to find a host of special and unique products. Outfox the algorithms that direct your online buying with fresh, original choices! Look for the unique, the unusual, the handmade — all of the things you won’t find in big-box stores.
Even better, visiting your local stores is healthier for the planet and for you! All those blue delivery vans and their cardboard boxes take an environmental toll. Reduce carbon emissions and packaging waste… and get your steps in by walking around town. You’ll feel better, and you’ll know you’ve done just a little for the planet as well as for our community.
Shop Lawrenceville
Shoppe B / Brenda Friday Design
A curation of art, home accessories, furniture, and more, all put together by designer Brenda Friday and her team. You’re sure to find something “now,” something timeless, and something you’ve never seen before. The store is also a hub where local artists show their work and has become known for carrying hard-to-find small-batch and vintage pieces.
Otto Finn
Get your hands on a one-of-a-kind piece that’s only available when the owner releases a drop. Otto Finn, founded by Rona Chang, takes inspiration from Asian street style to create these works of art. Kids’ sizes make an adorable, fun statement, and adult options bring some whimsy into your wardrobe. The best part is that each piece is made by transforming old kanthas that would otherwise go to waste.
Rosie’s Workshop
Discover your imaginative side with Rosie’s decor, lighting, and more. Pick from a functional lamp made out of an old film camera, colorful retro clocks, or funky-shaped checkered vases. They also carry hand-poured candles, pop-culture coffee table books, and fun mugs that make good gifts.
Morrow and Dean
Itching for a new outfit for the holiday season and its many get-togethers? Morrow and Dean carry seasonal edits that are on-trend every year. Aside from their evergreen stock of elevated basics and put-together sets, find velvet minis, metallic tops, and an expanded accessories section this season.
Vestis
If you need a hand choosing a new outfit or accessory, Vestis is happy to help with personal styling. This men’s contemporary boutique opened in 2015 and continues to provide innovative, quality pieces. Think high-quality denim and knitwear, timeless outerwear, and hybrid workwear-casual options.
Dragonfly Castle Toys
Give the kids in your life a reason to ditch the screens. Instead of guessing online what to order, walk through shelves of handmade stuffed animals, books, pull toys, and even craft sets for preteens. They’ve added more sensory play and STEM options to keep pace with the latest learning and play.
Trim
Adorn your closet with men’s styles from around the world at Trim…and also your underwear drawer. Slip on a warm plaid coat for winter, a pair of swim trunks for vacation, or pick up some elevated basics for everyday wear. If you don’t feel like shopping in-store, you can order online to get your favorite sweater delivered right to your door.
Lawrenceville Pet Supply
Lawrenceville Pet Supply carries a huge variety of pet food, toys, treats, and accessories. Whether it’s a new leash to make walking easier for you, a special toy to bring joy to them, or treats that follow the specific diet your furbaby needs — find it here.
Alma Mercantile
No matter what type of gift your loved one would like, you can find them a home decor piece, apothecary product, or piece of apparel at this chic accessory store where everything is aesthetically pleasing. Sip a loose leaf green tea, add a gorgeous woven throw blanket over the couch, choose from ceramic and basket collections, and make sure to put this spot on your “to-gift” list.
Hippie and French
Give yourself a self-care day thanks to the relaxing atmosphere of Hippie and French. They are a cannabis boutique that carries CBD, THC Delta, topical, and edible selections. If you’re not into that, find other wellness trends like functional mushroom products. Everything is over-the-counter approved, so there’s no medical card needed.
Asian Influences
It’s not a museum, but you may get that glow of authority, rarity, and history as you walk through the wonderful groupings of porcelain, stoneware, furniture, and more. You’re sure to find a gorgeous antique or vintage treasure from Asia for your home. As unique home items surge in popularity, this shop will have something that can match any trend cycle.
Franklin and Mercer
Do you have a capsule wardrobe kind of guy in your life? At Franklin and Mercer the man in your life can feel confident in a new, modern style or a staple for day to day. Here, you can browse knowing that each brand brings quality and high aesthetic. A great spot for a simple man who wants to take dressing up a notch.
Party on Butler
If you’ve ever used “extra” to describe yourself or the person you’re celebrating, this one’s for you. Impress party guests with wild balloon displays customized for your event. Party on Butler helps bring celebrations to life with party planning help and supplies available for purchase.
Contemporary Craft
The Store at Contemporary Craft supports small-scale artists from all around the country by making their art available to you to buy. Check out pieces such as jewelry, ceramics, blown glass, handmade fiber art, and heirloom quality furniture. Functional items like cutting boards can be found there too and there are options within many price ranges so don’t hesitate to stop in thinking that art might be out of reach.
Mix Candle Co.
Have you ever wanted to make your own candle? Here’s your chance with the Mix and Pour Candle Experience. Choose from over 120 high-quality fragrance oils then select the perfect jar for your creation and even design your own label. It’s a great way to make something custom for a loved one, too. Or just take home one of their many pre-made aromatic scents.
Mello and Sons
If you want to make sure you own a piece of clothing that no one else does, Mello and Sons is the place to be. This vintage denim shop has overalls, jeans, shorts, jackets, and a variety of other unique items. You can find vintage tees, kids clothing, and pieces by coveted vintage enthusiasts such as Ralph Lauren’s RRL.
Wildcard
Aptly named, Wildcard has been providing the area with unique cards, handmade gifts, stunning gift wrap & creative crafts, t-shirts, baby & kids’ gifts, original art and much more since it opened in 2009. They carry many items by local artists and have been recognized as “Best Card Shop” and “Best One-of-A-Kind Store.”
Phoenix Boutique
If you’re looking for some investment pieces, Phoenix Boutique is your place. This high-end consignment store offers Chanel, Comme des Garçons, Kooples, and other brands you won’t always find secondhand. It may be pricier than a traditional consignment store, but you’ll save massively on sought-after designer finds.
Rosie’s Records
Named after the owner’s (very adorable) French Bulldog, Rosie’s Records is a haven for music lovers of all ages. The store’s selection is massive, and you can even shop for a new set of speakers or a turntable if yours are on their last legs. Rosie’s also hosts listening parties to get in early on new releases, and will buy your records and CDs if you want to give old tunes a new home.
Boheme
Why visit one vendor when you could shop 20 at once? Boheme brings together the city’s best artisans and curators to sell handmade items, art, or vintage without the expense of a full retail store. You get to shop extra local and support super-small sellers at the same time. Talk about a win-win.
For A Relaxing Bite While You Shop Locally in Lawrenceville
Umami
Hit Umami’s bar for a cool atmosphere complimented by delicious food. Umami is a Japanese pub that specializes in sake alongside sushi, small plates, skewers, and noodle or rice bowls. The kitchen is open and uniquely situated at the back center of the space and they often have a DJ playing tunes.
Pusadee’s Garden
The dining area at this Thai restaurant is simply magical. The glass walls looking into a central courtyard garden set the mood for a warming dish in a comfortable space. Try their Jungle Curry featuring chicken, kabocha squash, banana peppers, and fresh basil that’s perfect for a cold day. For extra comfort in the colder months, try their slow-cooked pork belly or their pumpkin curry. Or both.
Piccolo Forno
Craving a bowl of rustic Italian pasta? Piccolo Forno finishes off your long day with wood-fire pizzas, handmade pastas, and desserts like tiramisu. If you just want to graze and chat, it’s a great spot to choose from cheeses, meats, bruschetta, salads, and a cappuccino. Plus, if it happens to be a warm day out you can take advantage of their outdoor seating in the heart of Lawrenceville.
Grapperia
If you’re too tired for a sit-in dinner after shopping, stop by Grapperia for a quick cocktail instead. Sip on glasses of Italian wines, birra, grappa all while you bask in the completion of a productive day. This tiny bar offers an intimate, calm environment and allows you to order food from Piccolo Forno.
Butterwood Bake Consortium
Not your grandmother’s bakery. In fact, this one’s decor is inspired by brothels of the old west. It’s even open till 11 p.m. (yes, seriously). What makes Butterwood Bake Consortium so great is on top of the hours you can indulge in espresso drinks, made-daily cakes, and pastries all in a peaceful atmosphere. They stand out for using clean, local, and organic ingredients.
Allegheny Wine Mixer
Forget the stuffiness of a traditional wine bar. The casual atmosphere here paired with a large menu featuring wine, cocktails, beer, and food (think charcuterie heaven) is unbeatable. Note: They don’t open till 5 p.m., so make sure you save it for evening shopping adventures or the very end of your afternoon.
Vandal
Warm sourdough and Amish butter bread service. Hamachi crudo. Duck confit. Treat yourself to a celebratory dinner at the Vandal with food by Chef and Owner Joey Hilty. At this restaurant, the menu changes seasonally to always include the freshest, local ingredients.
Lawrence Hall
If you truly cannot decide on one restaurant, why not have the luxury of enjoying four different ones instead? At Lawrence Hall you can grab Kazoku’s sushi, LOADED’s comfort food, La Palapa’s Mexican cuisine, and Cuddy’s soul food. Plus, you can even grab ice cream from Scoops & Cones or a cocktail at the Dear James bar after your meal.
Happenstance Cafe
Happenstance Cafe makes sure there’s something for everyone with coffee, wine, and beer options. Their menu also includes vegan options like their L’Ville’s Vegan handheld with avocado, hummus, tomato, greens, pickled red onions, and vegan pesto on sourdough bread. Fun seasonal drinks, themed events, and rotating charities often show up on the calendar here.
Mediterra
Step in for a bite of fresh local cuisine and take home the luxe ingredients that make their food so delicious while you’re there. Think fine olive oils, pastas, and sauces, and a fromagerie. Don’t forget to order a cup of their in-store brewed coffee with special touches like a Deconstructed Latte or Cereal Milk Latte. Seasonal drink menus and monthly pastry changes make your typical coffee run something to look forward to.
Espresso a Mano
This low-fi coffee shop right on the main drag is a perfect stop to try during a shopping trip since you won’t need to connect to a computer for work. They have a straightforward, high-quality menu of all your staples, a chill atmosphere, and a cozy seating area.
Caffe di Amore
Make your dollar go the extra mile by grabbing a coffee at this woman-owned cafe that prides itself on quality, sustainability, and intention. They’re incredibly mindful of who they partner with, tapping trusted micro-roasters and local partners for high-grade beans, milk, food, and ingredients. The cafe also makes the majority of its syrups and shrubs in house, their handpies are perfect for snacking while walking, and the coffee is so darn good.
Pita My Shawarma
What began as a food truck is now a full brick-and-mortar offering wine, shareables, small plates, and, of course, shawarma: rotisserie-cooked meat shaved and served on fresh pita with lettuce, tomato, and turnip fixins. Check out the Shawarma Pack, which includes enough pita wraps, fries, hummus dip, and baklava to feed at least for people. Like its humble beginnings, you’ll still catch the food truck at events.
Story by Kylie Thomas
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