Pittsburgh is filled with countless neighborhoods that house a unique array of shops from a cozy bookshop to a darling miniature store to a tasty candy shop. Shopping at local stores is the perfect way to support small businesses this holiday season. We’ve highlighted three bustling neighborhoods filled with shops worth checking out.
SEWICKLEY
Penguin Bookshop
Penguin Bookshop is one of Sewickley’s oldest stores, founded in 1929 by Isabelle Adams and Eleanor Gilchrist. The current owner, Susan Hans O’Connor, has owned it for over 10 years and has created a book lover’s paradise with a diverse selection of fiction, cookbooks, memoirs and more. They have a large children’s collection as well. If you’re not looking for a specific book, ask whoever’s working what they recommend. You might find a new favorite book in the process.
Mediterra Café
Mediterra Café is a delicious restaurant offering breakfast and lunch fare, but they also have a curated selection of food items that would make the perfect host gift for the foodie in your life. Their dried goods selection is impressive with pasta, nuts, and other accoutrements, such as honey, jam and mustard. You could buy a loaf of freshly baked bread, tasty pastries, or a tantalizing dessert too. They also sell a variety of cheeses, including local favorite Goat Rodeo, which anyone would be happy to receive. Mediterra also has a monthly cheese club that will send the recipient three handpicked cheeses each month for $65 which would make the perfect gift for any cheese lover.
Three Dog Bakery
Your furry friends deserve some love too! Three Dog Bakery offers handmade dog treats that they make in-store. Their goods range from beautifully decorated, dog-friendly cookies to 7” round cakes made with peanut butter or carob. Besides their homemade treats, they sell dog food, chews, and other treats sourced from around the U.S. and Canada. You can also pick up a new toy for your kitten or pup or a new collar or leash for a new look!
ASPINWALL
Lynlott Miniatures Dollhouse Junction
Lynlott Miniatures has everything you could ever need to create the perfect house from furniture to rugs to books—if you’re no more than 5 inches tall. The range of items at Lynlott is impressive with everything you could think of in miniature form. There are mini Nancy Drew novels, a breakfast plate with eggs and bacon, and a pink hairdryer. They also sell parts needed to build your own dollhouse, and if that’s not in your wheelhouse, they also build custom-made dollhouses.
Nouveau Designer Consignment
Nouveau Designer Consignment sells elegant vintage, designer clothes at affordable prices. You can find a variety of items, including women’s and children’s clothes, shoes, jewelry and more. “Nouveau will never be the same shop twice,” according to their website, which makes it all the more fun!
Nota Bene Fine Paper Boutique
If you’re looking for the perfect thank-you card or party invitation, Nota Bene has you covered. They sell beautifully crafted cards and stationery, and they also create custom invitations for every life celebration, including weddings and birthdays. You can also find assorted gifts such as candles, stuffed animals and decorative matches.
BUTLER
Cummings Candy and Coffee
Cummings Candy and Coffee is 110 years old and the oldest family-run business in Butler. They have four locations, including the original store located in downtown Butler. The original store whips up coffees, milkshakes, and traditional soda fountain drinks, while the other three stores offer only espresso and tea. At all four locations, you can purchase their gourmet, homemade candies, such as peanut brittle, hand-dipped chocolates and other seasonal sweets. It’s the perfect place to satisfy your sweet tooth this holiday season!
Appalachian Rock
Discover the magic of nature at Appalachian Rock Shop! This shop specializes in all kinds of geological treasures. Appalachian Rock offers a stunning selection of crystals, gemstones, fossils and mineral specimens, perfect for collectors and enthusiasts alike. You can find a striking statement piece, a healing crystal, or a beautiful geode for your desk.
Playthings Etc.
Playthings Etc. is a delightful toy store that sparks creativity and imagination in children of all ages. Located in a silver, spaceship-like building, this store offers an extensive selection of over 7,000 toys, games and educational resources. Many spend hours wandering the aisles and playing with all of the toys and novelties. It’s truly a fun experience for the whole family.
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