Shopping Guide: Garfield & Bloomfield
The retail heart of these neighborhoods beats along Liberty and Penn Avenues. From imported Italian delicacies to locally made glass art, these shops provide a personal touch and a deep connection to the community's roots.
The retail heart of these neighborhoods beats along Liberty and Penn Avenues. Here, you can find everything from imported Italian delicacies and rare vinyl to locally made glass art and avant-garde literature. Whether you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind gift or a taste of Pittsburgh’s heritage, these shops provide a personal touch that you won't find anywhere else.
Landmarks of Little Italy
For over a century, Bloomfield has been the go-to destination for authentic Italian flavors and housewares.
Bloomfield Groceria | 237/239 Cedarville St.
A neighborhood institution on Cedarville Street. Step inside for handmade ravioli, gnocchi, and freshly prepared hoagies. It’s the perfect place to stock up on authentic ingredients for a home-cooked feast.
Merante Gifts | 4723 Liberty Ave.
This "shop with an Italian accent" features imported housewares, high-quality cooking gear, and beautiful home décor. They even offer cooking classes for those wanting to bring a bit of the old world home.
Linea Verde Green Market | 4629 Liberty Ave.
A beloved local market specializing in fresh, high-quality produce, local dairy, and specialty Italian pantry items. It captures the "old-world" market feel with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients.
Contemporary Artisans & Creative Finds
Pittsburgh Glass Center | 5472 Penn Ave.
More than just a studio, their gallery shop features breathtaking, one-of-a-kind glass pieces created by local and international artists, ranging from intricate ornaments to bold sculptures.
Silver Eye Center for Photography | 4808 Penn Ave.
A cornerstone of the Penn Avenue arts scene, this gallery is a must-visit for fine art lovers. It focuses on contemporary photography through curated exhibitions that feature both internationally recognized and local talent.
Irma Freeman Center for Imagination | 5006 Penn Ave.
Their boutique is a treasure trove of quirky, artist-made gifts, handmade ceramics, and original prints that celebrate the neighborhood's creative spirit.
Books, Vinyl, & Specialty Gems
These specialty shops are essential stops for those who love a good hidden gem find.
White Whale Bookstore | 4754 Liberty Ave.
An independent bookstore that serves as a true community hub, specializing in contemporary fiction, poetry, and local authors.
Creative Chem Co. | 4534 Liberty Ave.
A newer addition to Bloomfield, this unique "maker space" is one part coffee shop and one part retail boutique, featuring goods from local artisans and offering a modern communal workspace.
Kraynick’s Bike Shop | 5003 Penn Ave.
A legendary HQ for local bike culture. It’s part shop, part community center—you can even find rare parts or use their tools to work on your own ride.
Social & Mission-Driven Makers
Black Cat Market | 5135 Penn Ave.
A unique hybrid cat café and vintage shop. You can browse local art and zines or book a session to hang out with adoptable cats in a cozy, community-focused environment.
Workshop Fiber Studio | 5131 Penn Ave.
Part DIY school and part retail shop, this is the place to find modern craft supplies, indoor plants, and creative kits that reflect the neighborhood's "maker" spirit.
VaultArt Studio | 5100 Penn Ave.
This gallery and workspace supports artists with disabilities, producing some of the most vibrant and high-energy contemporary art in the city. It’s an essential stop during the First Friday gallery crawls.
Planning Tips
The "L" Route
Start on Liberty Avenue in Bloomfield to explore the Italian markets, then head down Pearl Street to connect over to Penn Avenue in Garfield for the art galleries and boutiques.
The Night Market
If you’re visiting during the summer, don't miss the Garfield Night Market (held along the 5100 block of Penn Ave), which brings together dozens of local street vendors and makers.
Check the Calendar
Many of the galleries in Garfield have specialized hours, so planning your visit around the "Unblurred" First Friday gallery crawl ensures you’ll see the best of the local art scene.
