Bloomfield is known as Pittsburgh’s Little Italy. And that nickname is not a nod to the past; it is still an integral part of its present. Just stroll down any side street on a Sunday afternoon, and the aroma of marinara sauce will hit your nose and wake up your taste buds.
Walking down any block of Liberty Ave, you pass 80-year-old businesses next to new and inventive restaurants. From the traditional to the trendy, here are some of our favorite spots in Bloomfield.
What to Eat
Tessaro’s American Bar & Hardwood Grill
On a clear day, the smell of the hardwood grill of Tessaro’s wafts over the entire neighborhood, but there’s nothing to complain about. That fire, combined with their in-house butcher and custom iron grill, make for some of the best burgers in the city and the country. (But don’t sleep on the potato salad!)
Location: 4601 Liberty Avenue
For over 20 years, this family-owned restaurant has been serving up authentic curries and noodles.
Location: 4627 Liberty Avenue
A few blocks down from Linea Verde Green Market is Merante’s Bloomfied, owned by Gina’s sister Maria Merante Palmeri. Merante’s is a shop with imported Italian ceramics, decor, and gifts. While you’re browsing, your nose may lead you to the back half of the store to find the daily menu of delicious traditional food. Not ready to eat just yet, check out their ready-made meals, soups, and sauces. And, of course, you should finish it with one of their famous biscotti, cannoli, or both! They even have catering and can help you create a memorable cookie table for any event.
Location: 4723 Liberty Avenue
You can’t talk about Bloomfield without some good Italian food, and Pleasure Bar has been serving pasta since 1941. Or hang out at the bar during a Steelers or Pens game.
Location: 4729 Liberty Avenue
Paddy Cake is the place to go if you need a cake for a special occasion or just a donut for your morning. They have delicious desserts, breads and rolls. But we wish they sold a candle that smells like the sweet and tasty aroma that hits you as soon as you open the door!
Location: 4763 Liberty Avenue
What to Do
Start your weekend by attending this fantastic farmers market from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. every Saturday from May to November. Local food, produce, cheese, flowers, and more are all fresh and waiting for you.
Location: 5050 Liberty Avenue
Boxheart exhibits contemporary art and fine craft of emerging and established artists. It is easy to get lost wandering the gallery.
Location: 4523 Liberty Avenue
This Bloomfield staple has kept people looking fly, groovy, cool, fetching, or whatever the popular slang of the era since 1931. Stop in to have Dan’s grandson give you a shape-up and marvel at the decades of awards and memorabilia.
Location: 4720 Liberty Avenue
You don’t have to wait for the Saturday Market when Linea Verde Green Market is right on Liberty. Owned by Gina Merante, this store is chock full of fresh produce. The bright colors of the fruits and vegetables are sure to inspire your next great meal. Get what you need for your family’s favorite recipes, or pick up something you’ve never tried before.
Location: 4619 Liberty Avenue
White Whale is a great place to browse the shelves and find your next favorite read. The comfy space has a cafe bar with coffee and beer and often hosts book signings and readings by local and visiting authors.
Location: 4754 Liberty Avenue
Where to Live
These pet-friendly apartments have contemporary finishes, high ceilings, in-unit laundry and fireplaces.
Location: 5250 Liberty Avenue
Live in a modern slice of history in this turn-of-the-century warehouse. In 2018, this cool building was converted into one and two-bedroom units with vaulted ceilings and balconies.
Location: 622 Gross Street
This post is a part of our #PittsburghProud blog series, highlighting local organizations, businesses, and hidden gems that make Pittsburgh a vibrant and beautiful place.
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