As the weather outside becomes frightful, the fire sure is delightful. There’s nothing like lounging in the warmth of your home on a cold winter day. Take your comfort to the max by embracing 2020’s loungewear trend at these Shadyside shops.

Apricot Lane Boutique, 5533 Walnut Street

Image from @apricotlanepgh on Instagram

The Shadyside location of this women’s boutique brand opened up in 2018 and is run by a mother and daughter duo. Walk in with a pair of sneakers and leave with a pair of warm slippers you’ll never want to take off. Prefer browsing online? There’s a whole loungewear section on their website!

Apricot Lane is open for in-store shopping Monday – Saturday from 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM and Sunday from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM.

MODA, 5401 Walnut Street

Image from @modapittsburgh on Instagram

Nothing says loungewear quite like sweatshirts and sweatpants. Stock up on these classic garments at this fashionable store. You’ll find styles for men and women, so load up on some of your favorite work-from-home attire. Browse their inventory online or pay a visit to their Shadyside location.

MODA’s hours of operation are Monday – Saturday from 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM and Sunday from 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM. In-store and online shopping are both available.

Feathers, 5408 Walnut Street

Image from @feathers_shadyside on Instagram

Sometimes you just don’t want to shed your pajamas when you get up in the morning. Feathers has a selection of comfy women’s pajamas you can wear all day long. They really are the cat’s pajamas. Be sure to check out their nightshirts and gowns as well.

Feathers is open for in-store shopping from 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Monday – Saturday.

Fill in your wardrobe with comfortable staples in solidarity with this year’s work from home lifestyle. These shops are all within three blocks of each other in the heart of Shadyside, and they’re only a two-minute walk from some of Franklin West’s Shadyside apartments. Shop at your leisure and hit them all in one go. Remember to wear your mask and check these stores’ websites for updates to hours of operation.

Sending holiday greeting cards is a timeless tradition, and during the 2020 holiday season finding creative ways to stay connected is more important than ever. Elevate your correspondence this year by sending handwritten cards or unique gifts your friends and family will surely cherish. Everything you need to get started is available from local stationery retailers right within Shadyside. 

Kards Unlimited, 5522 Walnut Street

Whether you’re looking for the perfect witty card for the comedian in your family or a new journal to jot down your goals for the new year, Kards Unlimited on Walnut Street has you covered. This store has been a family-owned Shadyside staple for more than 50 years; it’s a one-stop-shop for all your holiday gift needs. You’ll find an assortment of cards, books, games, mugs, puzzles, and more.

Image from Kards Unlimited on Instagram

Kards Unlimited is open for in-store shopping and curbside pickup from 9:30 AM – 9:00 PM Monday – Saturday, and 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM on Sunday. Double-check hours on their website for any updates before visiting.

Scribe Fine Papers, 731 ½  Filbert Street

For the artists and calligraphy lovers, Scribe Fine Papers on Filbert Street carries letterpress goods, stationery, and printing products from various designers and local artists. This stationery shop fulfills custom orders and also sells beautiful calendars, journals, ribbons, and calligraphy pens. In addition to finding quality cards for your friends and family, this is the perfect spot to pick up any supplies you’ll need for your next rainy day weekend project.

Image from Scribe Fine Papers on Instagram

Scribe Fine Papers is open from 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM on Wednesday, 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM Thursday – Saturday, and 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM on Sunday. Look to their website for any updates to these hours of operation.

Pennhollows, 244 S. Highland Avenue

This local shop has been a Shadyside favorite since it opened in 2007. Come for the selection of beautiful cards suiting various occasions, and stay for the assortment of rare books and unique home decor. Your card recipients will love a warm message enclosed in one of Pennhollows’ delightful illustrations.

Image from Pennhollows on Instagram

Pennhollows is open from 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM Tuesday – Saturday, and 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM Sunday & Monday. Refer to their website for updates to hours of operation.

Kawaii Gifts, 738 Copeland Street

Kawaii means “cute” in Japanese, and cute is exactly what you’ll find at Kawaii Gifts on Copeland Street. This shop sells Japanese letter sets, notebooks, pens, and other items adorned with animals and charming illustrations. The items here provide a lighthearted tranquility people can appreciate in this challenging year. A gift from Kawaii is sure to spread cheer.

Image from Kawaii Gifts on Instagram

Kawaii Gifts is open every day from 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM. Visit their website for any updates or to schedule a private shopping appointment.

Bring some cheer and a personal touch into this holiday season. No need to stray far; all these Shadyside shops are easily walkable. Whether you send a simple, handwritten thank you note or your annual batch of Christmas cards, your loved ones will appreciate you thinking of them.

 

Image from Think Shadyside

The busiest shopping season of the year is approaching, and planning ahead is more important than ever. Before you purchase all the items you need online from big brand retailers, head into Shadyside and support the many fantastic local businesses that help enrich this beautiful neighborhood. If you’re shopping for great deals, then mark your calendar for this year’s Small Business Saturday.

Small Business Saturday will take place on November 28 from 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM and will include shops along Ellsworth Avenue, Walnut Street, S. Highland Avenue, and many stores in between.

While you make your way from shop to shop, admire the holiday decor in storefronts participating in the Holiday Window Decorating Contest. Holiday window decorations are a familiar site during this time of year, but this year the Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership has upped the ante by sponsoring this festive contest. Local businesses have paired up with talented local artists listed on the Pittsburgh Artists Registry in order to bring the public these spectacular, creative displays.

Pittsburgh Parking Authority (PPA) metered street parking and metered lots will be free for this event, so you’ll only need to pay for the great deals you discover. PPA lots in Shadyside include Shadyside Garage on 714 Bellefonte Street as well as the Ivy/Bellefonte lot at 726 Ivy Street. PPA parking is also free on Thanksgiving, Black Friday, and every Sunday. No matter where you choose to park, Shadyside is easily walkable and pedestrian-friendly.

We hope to see you out and about supporting the many treasured businesses Shadyside has to offer. Stay tuned to the event’s official Facebook page for updated info on participating businesses.

Many thanks to PNC and UPMC for sponsoring this event and to Think Shadyside and Pedagogy for hosting.

The tree-lined streets of Shadyside, along with the many parks throughout this charming neighborhood, make for a spectacular fall season. Journey with us for a walk along S. Highland Avenue where we’ll pass by wonderful eateries, historic sites, and some Franklin West apartments available to rent today.

We’ll start our tour at Howe Springs on Fifth Avenue where the road meets the southernmost end of S. Highland Ave. What you see today is the 1912 neoclassical redesign where the spring’s structure first stood in 1892. When Thomas Howe sold the land featuring the spring,  he stipulated that the spring would remain free for public use.

Photo credit: Google Street View

As you cross Fifth Avenue and follow the sidewalk on the right side of S. Highland Avenue, you’ll soon arrive at one of Franklin West’s S. Highland Avenue apartment buildings.

509 S. Highland Ave

This location offers peaceful seclusion while providing the ideal proximity to all the city’s amenities. You’ll notice just how close it is to Fifth Avenue, which can easily bring you all the way downtown in only minutes. Whole Foods, Trader Joe’s, and Market District are all within walking distance, so you can run your errands without the carbon footprint.

For rent now: Apt. 33

This 2-bed, 1-bath residence features a private balcony where you can sip your morning cup of coffee and get a dose of fresh air. When it’s too cold to go outside, enjoy the natural light flooding in through the large windows while you stay nice and warm. The kitchen includes a refrigerator, range, and dishwasher. Laundry facilities are available within the building, so you can knock out your chores without darting all over town.

Let’s continue about three and a half blocks further up S. Highland Avenue. Cross S. Highland Avenue at a crosswalk on your way up, and you will be met by the historic Highland Towers. 

Highland Towers

You’ll find this historic residential gem conveniently situated in the heart of Shadyside’s East End. This urban neighborhood with a suburban feel is just minutes from downtown Pittsburgh and the city’s most prominent universities, such as Carnegie Mellon University and University of Pittsburgh.

Highland Towers has been a fixture of Shadyside since 1913, and the building was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1976. The building’s architect, Frederick G. Scheibler, Jr., began his career as an apprentice in 1888 at age 16 and was a lifelong Pittsburgher. This beloved example of Modern American architecture takes direct inspiration from the Vienna Secession art movement; it is a superb example of Scheibler’s natural talent.

Two fourth-floor residences are currently available.

For rent now: 340 S. Highland Ave, Apt. 8A

This 2-bed, 1-bath apartment can be all yours. Enjoy the spacious living room where you can immerse yourself in a good book and decorate to your heart’s content. The wall-to-wall carpet in this space will keep your feet cozy all winter long, and the decorative fireplace provides a warm accent to this interior. The large dining room will keep you from getting stir-crazy while working or studying at home.

For rent now: 342 S. Highland Ave, Apt. 16B

Take full advantage of the inclusions in this 2-bed, 1-bath unit. A built-in chest of drawers in the living room checks off some of your furniture needs, while the dishwasher will allow you to focus more on the art of cooking rather than the aftermath.

Ready for a delicious hot meal after this stroll through the crisp air? Continue up S. Highland Avenue to the next block and stop in at Noodlehead. This restaurant centers its menu around popular dishes from Thailand’s many street markets. With plenty of vegetarian and gluten-free options, there’s something here for everyone. Noodlehead is currently available for takeout, delivery, or outdoor seating. Bring your face covering as well as cash, because they do not accept credit cards.

If you decide on the takeout route, or you wish to continue up S. Highland Avenue, make your way up to the South Highland bridge and have a seat on one of the built-in benches on this award-winning bridge. The $2.9 million project wrapped up toward the end of 2013 and spans Ellsworth Avenue, the Martin Luther King, Jr. Busway, and the Norfolk Southern Railroad. Take note of the glass panels highlighting various pieces of the area’s history; you’ll truly find a window into the past.

Photo credit: Google Street View

This brief stretch through Shadyside is just a small portion of what makes this neighborhood so charming. We hope you enjoyed your tour, and we encourage you to request a tour or more info regarding our current availability.

This Halloween season we’re seeing a lot more masks. Not the kinds we usually see at this time of year, but fall is coming in full force regardless. Luckily we have all sorts of events we can look forward to in the weeks to come. 

We’re going over some favorites you can enjoy with friends or family all while practicing social distancing.

ZooBoo Drive-Thru Fundraiser

If you haven’t been to the Pittsburgh Zoo, then add it to your list for October 17th, 18th, 24th, & 25th. Pack up the car with your favorite people and head over for a unique trick or treating experience with ZooBoo Drive-Thru Fundraiser. 

Tickets are timed and you’ll need them in advance. Drive through the zoo seeing all the animals celebrating the fall festivities with you. They’ll get some tasty fall-themed treats as will any trick or treaters you bring along with you. There are various candy stops along the driving route and a Trick-Or-Treat Trail sponsored by Allegheny Health Network. 

If you love going all out for Halloween, decorate your car for part of this year’s CAR-stume parade. The ZooBoo Drive-Thru is happening rain or shine, so get your tickets here.

Photo credit: Pittsburgh Zoo and PPG Aquarium Zoo Boo event

Owl-O-Ween

The National Aviary houses a variety of owls, falcons, sloths, penguins, and other amazing creatures. Owl-O-Ween is included with regular admission and takes place on October 24 from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. 

Kids will receive a fun, trick or treat bag filled with goodies and crafts they can assemble at socially distanced tables. Get to know the Spectacled Owl or the Eurasian Eagle Owl with one of the Aviary’s experts. Tickets are timed, so book them online in advance.

Family Days at the Carnegie Museum of Art

Whether you’ve long been an art connoisseur or simply enjoy the occasional stroll through a gallery, the Carnegie Museum of Art will never disappoint. This museum is home to paintings from van Gogh, Monet, and Gauguin and also holds an archive of over 70,000 negatives from photographer Charles “Teenie” Harris. 

There will be a series of Family Days with the next occurring on October 17 between noon and 4:00 PM. There will also be Family Days on November 15 and December 13, so get your tickets in advance. Bring your kids aged 3-18 and they’ll receive an Art Cat bag including some drawing materials, fun activities pertaining to the various galleries, and fun ideas they can use at home.

Super Science Saturday: Booseum Trick or Treat

Attached to the Carnegie Museum of Art is another favorite: the Carnegie Museum of Natural History. Learn about the natural wonders of the past in the many engaging exhibits in this beloved museum. 

For the Booseum Trick or Treat event, children can wear their Halloween costumes while hunting for stamps. Then, in the end, kids can redeem those stamps for goodie bags filled with fun, non-food treats. These goodie bags will only be available while supplies last, so head over and get started on your hunt. 

Also, safety masks must be worn in addition to any costume related masks for the safety of all patrons of the museum. Just like Family Days at the museum, this event will occur on Saturday, October 17 from noon to 4:00 PM. Make the most of the day by visiting both museums back to back for double the fun.

Photo Credit: Carnegie Museum of Natural History via Instagram

Pints For Paws at the Urban Tap Shadyside

Pets do so much for us and they just have a way of making the world a better place. Pay it back by supporting our furry, four-legged friends with a donation to Furkid Rescue at the Pints For Paws event. 

This indoor & outdoor patio event at The Urban Tap Shadyside will be a great opportunity for enjoying crisp October air with pooches aplenty. $15 will get you your own embossed Yuengling pint glass, beer included with three different choices of brews, and event-specific “Pints For Paws” koozie, some yummy tater tots, a ticket for the Chinese auction during the event. While $5 of your admission price will go directly to Furkid Rescue in support of all they do for animals in Pittsburgh.

Haunted Pittsburgh Downtown Ghost Tour

You may already know of Pittsburgh’s rich history as the Steel City, but this tour will steal your attention with spooky stories of the city’s darker side. Haunted Pittsburgh leads 90-minute walking tours on weekends through early November. 

If you enjoy scary thrills and historical walking tours, then this tour is for you. Tours commence at 7:00 PM in front of the City-County Building and tickets are only available online at $18 per adult and $10 for kids 12 and under. Get ready for a spooktacular tour of Pittsburgh.

 

There’s plenty of spooky fun we can all enjoy this Halloween season, so enjoy the best of fall in Pittsburgh with these exciting attractions and events fun for the whole family!

Summer is winding down and Fall is making itself known. It’s the time for bouts of perfect weather between sporadic showers, and all the lovely things the season brings. Fall evokes images of pumpkin patches, apple picking, changing foliage, and even a few ghosts and ghouls later in the season.

It’s no wonder many festivals and events take full advantage of this time of year. Although options are more limited than in years past, here are some fall-themed events you can look forward to.

Phipps’ Fall Flower Show.

If you haven’t made it over to Phipps Conservatory yet, do yourself a favor and reserve a time you can wander around the displays. They host all sorts of themes and events throughout the year, and this year’s Fall Flower Show: The Poetry of Nature begins on October 10.

Photo Credit: Phipps Conservatory

You’ll see chrysanthemums aplenty here as they’ve been training all year for the event. Grab a few friends, bring a camera, and capture the beauty for your autumn photo collections. On the other hand, take a relaxing stroll by getting lost in the colors and scents of the many eloquent displays comprising Phipps. The event is going for only three weeks, so be sure to buy your tickets in advance.

The Frick

Henry Clay Frick is one of the prominent steel magnates who shaped Pittsburgh into the city it is today. Museum displays are once again open, but timed tickets are necessary. Visit his elaborate home and stroll the vast grounds.

The grounds sit on the edge of what is now Frick Park, so you’ll surely see beautiful fall colors as you make your way around the premises.

Photo Credit: the Frick Pittsburgh via Instagram

Pittsburgh Zoo and PPG Aquarium

The Pittsburgh Zoo and Aquarium are open year-round, but if you’re planning a visit before it gets too chilly, now is the time. The Zoo always hosts fun events the entire family will enjoy, and fortunately, these events are continuing with social distancing measures in place.

Spot the Dots Scavenger Hunt

This amusing challenge is brought to you by Chick-fil-A Pittsburgh and is inspired by the 5 new cheetah cubs at the zoo. Make your way through the zoo’s many exhibits and solve 6 riddles for prizes including Chick-fil-A meals and a mini plush cow. The six riddles will culminate in one winning word you can enter into this site when you’ve completed the hunt. The hunt ends on September 30, so get out there.

photo credit: Pittsburgh Zoo via Instagram

Pumpkin Palooza

Also at the Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium, this year is the Pumpkin Palooza. It’s a true fall kickoff with pumpkin decorating, sweet treats, and a visit with the zoo’s education animal ambassadors. This event takes place on Sunday, October 4 from 10 to 11 AM. Bring your camera and watch the animals enjoy some fall treats too.

Make your way out and see the seasons change. When things really cool down, go ahead and grab a hot drink from one of your favorite Shadyside cafes before heading to your fall events.

Over the last few years, Pittsburgh’s cycling scene has blossomed. In fact, the city drafted a plan in which 120 miles of new bike paths will be added in the next decade!

There has never been a better time for cycling around town. Whether you’re interested in leisurely exploring your neighborhood, using your bike to get you to work, or trying out cycling as a new exercise routine.

Get started and join the cycling community by visiting these bike shops in and around Shadyside. Then once you’re all geared up, check out some of Pittsburgh’s best bike trails.

Bike Shops around the Shadyside Community

Trek Bicycle Pittsburgh Shadyside

If you’re partial to Trek bikes, then this is where you should shop. Be it a road bike, mountain bike, electric bike, or kid’s bike – Trek in Shadyside has it all.

They have rentals available if you’re just looking for a one-off ride or if you’re with a friend without a bike. Already have a bike, but looking for an upgrade? Trade-in a bike for store credit and just pay the difference. Are kids growing too fast? Trek has a program for trading up bike sizes according to your kids’ needs. How cool and convenient is that!

Free Ride Pittsburgh

This Point Breeze spot is another DIY oriented bike shop so you can learn your way around your bike. The Free Ride Pittsburgh shop is community-run, so hours will depend on volunteer schedules. Check their website and Facebook page for hours.

Hours may be especially limited due to COVID-19, but keep an eye out for donation drives and used bike sale events. These donation drives result in tons of donated bikes and parts people can buy when the used bike sales come around. Check it out and find some great deals.

Photo Credit: Free Ride Pittsburgh Instagram

BikeTek

This Squirrel Hill shop carries bikes from a few different brands. You’ll find bikes here in addition to your standard mountain, road, and hybrid bikes. Speaking of hybrids, BikeTek has a great selection you can find online or in-store during their hours. See their website for up-to-date info on hours of operation.

Kraynick’s Bike Shop

This shop is a Pittsburgh staple. It’s not your traditional bike shop where you find what you want, pay, and be on your way. Kraynick’s Bike Shop is a one-stop-shop for learning all about the mechanics, maintenance, and repairs of your bike.

You’ll find die-hard bike mechanics volunteering and sharing knowledge with patrons looking for new assemblies and repairs. There are 10 work stations with all the tools you need for getting your bike up and running. It’s free of charge, but patrons are encouraged to buy replacement parts from the shop.

Photo Credit: Kraynick’s Bike Shop Instagram

Healthy Ride PGH

Healthy Ride has bike-share locations all over town where you can pick up bikes and drop them off at any of the 113 designated stations. Head over to their website or download the app and register, then you can grab a bike whenever and virtually wherever you please. You can pay as you go for $2 for every 30 minutes, pay $12 per month for unlimited 30-minute rides, or pay $20 per month for unlimited 60-minute rides.

Now you know where you can get your wheels, so hit one of these excellent bike routes.

Bikeable Areas Near Shadyside and More

Frick Park Trails

If you like immersing yourself in nature, then don’t miss Frick Park’s trails. You’ll find miles of bike trails suited for different experience levels and biking styles. Try Roller Coaster Trail for thrilling downhill mountain biking or head down to the Monongahela River on Nine Mile Run Trail for a longer ride. Frick Park info and maps here.

Great Allegheny Passage

Want an even longer ride? The Great Allegheny Passage is a 150-mile path stretching from Pittsburgh to Cumberland, Maryland. From there you can connect to the C & O Canal Towpath which stretches another 184.5 miles until you find yourself in our nation’s capitol. Much of the Great Allegheny Passage follows what were once railroad routes, so you can count on mostly flat riding. This picturesque trail takes you through many of Pennsylvania’s scenic gems. For a nice day-ride, park on the Waterfront and take the trail down to Boston, PA. Explore to your heart’s content before heading back. Great Allegheny Passage info and maps here.

Three Rivers Heritage Trail

For Pittsburgh city-centric cycling, check out this series of trails lining the three rivers. You’ll see superb views of the point from various angles as well as spectacular sunsets if you time it right. Ride for leisure or as part of your work commute on the 24 miles this trail offers. Three Rivers Heritage Trail info and maps here.

Our Shadyside Community

We can’t forget to mention our very own neighborhood. This scenic, tree-lined community is one of the most bikeable areas in Pittsburgh!

Plus, with hundreds of local shops and eateries, there’s always a unique place to stop for rest or to grab a bite to eat. Here at Franklin West, many of our apartments have bike storage available for our residents, too.

Whether you’re looking for bikes used or new, road or mountain, for rent or for sale, you’ll surely find a nearby shop or trail that fits your needs. Visit BikePGH’s website for a comprehensive map of biking trails throughout Pittsburgh.

Our Shadyside community and local businesses are finding creative ways to enjoy some of our favorite events this summer. Restaurants are making space on sidewalks or parking lots, vendors are moving inventory outside, and more transactions are becoming cashless.

We do miss our usual concerts, sports, restaurants, and museum outings, but fortunately, other things are popping up. In particular, Think Shadyside is coming in clutch with a brand new summer event: the Shadyside Summer Sampler.

It’s the community celebration of the summer that’s set to take place on August 12 – 16 all throughout Shadyside from 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM each day. You can expect participation from over 40 businesses right here in Shadyside for the Sidewalk Sale. Shopping for excellent deals and supporting small businesses is bound to work up an appetite. Many local eateries will have food and drink specials for you to enjoy.

This summer celebration doesn’t end there. The Shadyside Summer Sampler will also host several fun games. Plus, whenever you need a little break, you can relax and listen to live Jazz performances. Feeling lucky? This inaugural Shadyside Summer Sampler is sponsored by UPMC and the URA and includes various promos and giveaways.

Think Shadyside calls The Summer Sampler the “first, socially-distanced event of the summer”, so hopefully there will be more like it coming soon. Keep in mind, the entire event is subject to state safety regulations, so carry on practicing social distancing, hand washing/sanitizing, and wearing your mask. Help keep Shadyside safe and support this terrific community event!

Save this event in your calendar or head over to the official Facebook event page where you can mark going or interested. Either way, Facebook will send you a reminder about the event. Share it with your friends and neighbors too so they know all the details. Visit the Think Shadyside website for more announcements and for the full schedule of events!

Photo Credit: Think Shadyside

Your weather app may promise sweltering sunshine, but there are plenty of ways you can stay cool right here in Shadyside. 

Enjoying the air conditioning indoors is one way to go about it, but a sweet treat is always welcome. Ice cream is a summertime staple, and there are a few places you can get your fix. If you prefer different types of confections, then look no further because we have those too.

Millie’s

This ice cream shop has quickly become a go-to in Pittsburgh. If you haven’t been yet, then it’s time you gave it a try. You’ll find some classic flavors as well as some unique seasonals you’ll love. There are even dairy-free flavors for your enjoyment. Load up a scoop or two with your favorite toppings, or grab a pint to go.

Photo credit: Millie’s via Instagram

Sub Zero Nitrogen Ice Cream

It doesn’t get much cooler than nitrogen ice cream on a hot day. You’ll get a treat and a show here. Sub Zero has tons of flavors you can mix up with a variety of cream bases and toppings. Vegan, lactose-free, dairy-free, and reduced sugar are all options you’ll enjoy here. Did you know liquid nitrogen cools ice cream at -321 degrees Fahrenheit? Although liquid nitrogen will keep your cone cool, these are hot days so don’t let it melt!

Photo credit: Sub Zero via Instagram

Salúd Juicery

Already got your ice cream fix? Salúd has juice and smoothies for a refreshing summer beverage. Get all your veggies in with a healthy drink and add your favorite fruits for your sweet tooth. It doesn’t stop there – nuts, spices, supplements, and so much more is available and ready to order.

Photo credit: Salud via Instagram

Kahuna Poke & Juice Bar

Kahuna serves up some tasty dishes in Shadyside. While Poke does hit the spot on a summer day, we’re highlighting their juices. Cold-pressed juices here encompass everything from green concoctions made with cucumber, celery, and kale to carrot, orange, and ginger. Still, want something sweeter? Their smoothies will do the trick!

Photo credit: Kahuna via Instagram

Prantl’s Bakery

This one may not cool you down in the same way, but it won’t satisfy your sweet tooth any less. Prantl’s Burnt Almond Torte has been called the greatest cake in America by the Huffington Post. If you enjoy almonds, then do yourself a favor and try the original Burnt Almond Torte at its home in Shadyside. But, we can’t forget to mention, there’s a “walking torte,” and Prantl’s just announced a new pina colada-flavored torte. 

Photo credit: Prantl’s Bakery via Instagram

Let’s continue to show our support to local eateries any way we can. Go ahead friends, we deserve to treat ourselves!

When sourcing fresh produce for meals, big-box grocery stores are ever popular. Even now, supermarkets are evolving to cater to shoppers in various ways. But summertime is near, and it’s the time of the season for some DIY veggies and supporting local farms.

Here are a few simple kitchen garden veggies and herbs practically made for your windowsill. No worries if your thumb isn’t too green – we’ve got some recommendations for farmer’s markets in and around Shadyside.

Indoor Herbs

Quite a few herbs do well in apartments. It’s nice having them fresh and readily available, so plant away! Make sure they get the sunlight they need and keep the soil moist.

• Basil – Pack moist soil into a small pot and sprinkle the surface with seeds. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil and water gently.

• Mint – Start with a seedling and transfer to a pot with drainage holes. Water it well after planting and keep in indirect light.

• Chives – Add moist soil to a pot with adequate drainage and sprinkle seeds on top. Add about ¼“ of moistened soil on top and expect germination within two weeks.

Indoor Vegetables

Herbs aren’t the only edible plants you can maintain indoors. Some veggies are just as easily doable.

• Carrots – Depth is important here, so use an 8” – 12” deep pot. Fill the pot to an inch from the top with moist soil and plant seeds ¼” deep. Once they germinate, separate them so they’re at least an inch apart from each other.

• Lettuce greens – Fill a pot with moist soil and sprinkle around 10 seeds on the surface. Cover with ⅛” of damp soil and move seedlings apart when they germinate.

• Arugula – Follow the same steps here as you would for lettuce greens and you’ll have harvest after harvest of scrumptious arugula. Just remember to pick the bigger leaves and leave the smaller interior leaves to grow.

Farmer’s Markets Near Shadyside

Farmer’s markets are terrific, open-air excursions with tons of variety. Get your fruits, vegetables, meats, and more at the Bloomfield Saturday Market and the East Liberty Farmers Market.

• Bloomfield Saturday Market is located at 5050 Liberty avenue

• East Liberty Farmers Market is located in the Garland Park lot on N Euclid Ave

Local vendors showcase the freshest foods you can get. Supporting these vendors helps local farms, bakers, cheesemakers, and more so check them out.

Keep in mind, these markets are doing their best in adhering to health and safety procedures. Refer to the Bloomfield Saturday Market Facebook page and the East Liberty Farmers Market website for more information regarding current restrictions.