A Local’s Go-To Coffee Shops in Pittsburgh
Last Updated on April 2, 2025
Let’s be clear. This isn’t some official roundup of “the best” coffee shops in Pittsburgh. These are just the places I actually go. Some are quiet and cozy, some are a little chaotic, and a few just make the kind of mocha latte that makes you stop mid-sip. Whether I’m editing, meeting a couple, or in between shoots, these spots are part of my rhythm. And as I fall in love with more of them, I’ll keep adding to this list.
Kaibur Coffee
Kaibur Coffee is dangerously close to my house—like, I can smell the vegan muffins when I walk my dogs close. It’s tucked into Polish Hill with a little patio out front that’s almost always full of regulars, including one gentleman whose black golden doodle sits at his own table waiting patiently for his treat. It’s the kind of place where you’ll recognize the same faces every morning, and maybe even end up chatting with a neighbor you didn’t know you had.
Inside has gritty wood floors, a partial brick wall, Star Wars decorations, and more tables tucked in the back if you know to look. It’s got that lived-in Pittsburgh feel—no frills, a little funky, and full of charm.
Adam and Sarah own the place, and they’re the kind of people who make the space what it is. Sarah often pops out to give my dogs some love when she sees us passing by. They brew Elixr coffee, and it’s always on point. I’m pretty much ride-or-die for the mocha latte, but they’re always switching things up—lavender lattes, random seasonal specials, even a cayenne-spiked drink called the Doomed Mocha. Not my thing, but hey, someone’s gotta be into it. And those vegan donuts and muffins? Straight-up dangerous.
Espresso a Mano
Espresso a Mano sits right on Butler in Lawrenceville and has that effortlessly cool vibe without trying too hard. I think they’ve got a couple other locations, but this one’s the only one I know—and luckily, it’s right across the street from my girlfriend’s place. She’s on a first-name basis with the crew, I’m more of a “hey, I know your face” regular. That said, every time she shows up with a coffee in hand, it’s from here, and it never misses.
The shop itself is super spacious, with tons of seating inside and a nice outdoor setup when the weather cooperates. It’s perfect for meeting a friend, posting up with a laptop, or just people-watching on Butler. I stick to my usual—mocha, always—but they also make a killer spiced chai if that’s more your speed. Honestly, even if I don’t hang out here as much as other spots, it’s solid every time, and that mocha’s enough to earn its spot on this list.
Espresso a Mano
Espresso a Mano sits right on Butler in Lawrenceville and has that effortlessly cool vibe without trying too hard. I think they’ve got a couple other locations, but this one’s the only one I know—and luckily, it’s right across the street from my girlfriend’s place. She’s on a first-name basis with the crew, I’m more of a “hey, I know your face” regular. That said, every time she shows up with a coffee in hand, it’s from here, and it never misses.
The shop itself is super spacious, with tons of seating inside and a nice outdoor setup when the weather cooperates. It’s perfect for meeting a friend, posting up with a laptop, or just people-watching on Butler. I stick to my usual—mocha, always—but they also make a killer spiced chai if that’s more your speed. Honestly, even if I don’t hang out here as much as other spots, it’s solid every time, and that mocha’s enough to earn its spot on this list.