Pittsburgh is home to a wealth of small businesses, ranging from crepe-cafes to niche comic book shops. The culture staff writers have rounded up their favorite local spots as a reminder to shop local and explore all that Pittsburgh has to offer.
Phantom of the Attic Comics, Megan Barron
Nestled between the Pitt and CMU campuses is a haven for comic nerds and gaming geeks. Phantom of the Attic Comics has served the Oakland area as the go-to spot for all your comic book needs for over 40 years. Up the store’s staircase entryway is a treasure trove of comics and graphic novels, from big names like DC and Marvel to lesser-known indie titles and manga. On one wall, they stock lines of new releases and monthly publications available to purchase the day they are released.
For people who have never lived near a comic shop — a store becoming increasingly uncommon — it means no more waiting for Amazon orders of a single comic or perusing the very limited selection available in retail book stores. Right on campus, you’ll find not only a variety of comics and compendiums, both new and old, but a devoted staff to help you navigate their vast selection.
With the prevalence of Superhero movies, fans are becoming increasingly interested in the source material that inspired their favorite films. Determining where to start when reading content with over 80 years of publication can be difficult, but the kind and knowledgeable staff of Phantom of the Attic is ready and willing to set you on the right track. From curious new fans to devoted comic readers, Phantom of the Attic is the perfect place to nerd out.
Caliban Book Shop, Maxine Van Nortwick
Last Thursday, I went into the Caliban Book Shop hoping to find a nice gift for my mom’s birthday. Though I left without the one thing I needed, I left with something I wanted —, I found the perfect book, “Sigmund Freud” by Ralph Steadman, for 15% off. If Caliban Book Shop can be summarized into one experience, I believe this perfectly encapsulates the Oakland gem. If you love to explore old books and new topics, leaf through old records or chat with friendly bookkeepers, Caliban is the place for you. It’s nestled in the heart of North Craig, making it a great date spot or place to wander into on a rainy day. Their prices are more than reasonable, and books are 15% off every Thursday evening until 8:30 p.m.
Caliban is one of the lucky spots that you wander into not knowing what you want and leave finding exactly what you need. I’ve gotten everything from a book on Manhattan art galleries in the ‘90s to a mystery novel about the world ending in 2012. You could spend hours indulging in every nook and cranny of the wooden shelves, learning about Buddhism and the Revolutionary War or the adventures of Sherlock Holmes. They also have eclectic stickers, vintage matches and other knickknacks, if you love small knickknacks like I do. If you’re looking for your next favorite spot in Oakland, I can’t recommend Caliban enough.
Love, Pittsburgh, Kelly Kowalewski
Tourist or not, Love, Pittsburgh is a go-to local shop. As a Pittsburgh native who moved to California, then back again for college, this women-owned store has remained at the forefront of my mind. When I think of my hometown, I long for the warm greetings from the Love, Pittsburgh staff while browsing their wide selection of comfort items. From little knickknacks to sentimentally-packaged candles to Kennywood stickers and Pittsburgh-themed merchandise, I don’t mind breaking the bank to prove my love for this city.
Even when I’m not shopping, I still find my eyes lighting up when I see the business at pop-up events, festivals or outdoor markets. I am even more joyful knowing that Love, Pittsburgh items are stocked on the shelves at Pitt’s University Stores, where I shop often. With the store carrying over a hundred Pittsburgh-based artisans and creators, it is the perfect representation of what the city has to offer.
Geppetto Cafe, Anna Montesanti
A short drive or bus ride from Pitt’s campus is Geppetto Cafe in Lawrenceville — a longtime favorite of mine for delicious food, incredible coffee and charming atmosphere. Whether you want to grab coffee with friends, study in a cozy environment or a place to go and relax, Geppetto Cafe is good for any occasion.
While Geppetto offers salads, paninis and breakfast foods, they’re most known for their crepes. It’s difficult to go wrong ordering anything from here, but if you’ve never been, I highly recommend getting a crepe at least once. With a range of sweet and savory options, including customizability, everyone can find a favorite.
The inviting, whimsical atmosphere perfectly enhances the dining experience. It’s quaint enough to feel cozy, but there’s enough space for it to not feel crowded. The lighting is warm, decor is charming and there are books hanging from the ceiling. The location is great as well. Right in the heart of Lawrenceville, it’s surrounded by cute novelty and vintage-inspired shops great for casually exploring and taking advantage of on upcoming warmer days.