The Best Bakeries Near the University of Pittsburgh: A Sweet Escape for Students

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Summary

  • This blog post provides a guide to some of the best bakeries near the University of Pittsburgh, known for their delicious pastries.
  • It includes descriptions of each bakery's specialties, atmosphere, and location relative to the university.
  • The post aims to help students discover local gems and enjoy the diverse pastry scene in Pittsburgh.

Navigating the challenges of college life, from demanding classes to late-night study sessions, can leave students craving a sweet escape. Luckily, Pittsburgh's vibrant culinary scene offers a delightful array of bakeries just steps away from the University of Pittsburgh campus. Whether you're seeking a morning pick-me-up, an afternoon treat, or a celebratory dessert, these local gems are sure to satisfy your cravings and brighten your day.

1. Prantl's Bakery: A Pittsburgh Tradition

Established in 1904, Prantl's Bakery is a true Pittsburgh institution, known for its old-world charm and classic pastries. Located in the heart of the Strip District, just a short drive or public transportation ride from Pitt's Oakland campus, Prantl's offers a tempting selection of sweet and savory delights. Their most popular items include:

1.1. Sweet Treats

  1. Doughnuts: Prantl's doughnuts are legendary, with their fluffy texture and generous glaze. Choose from classic flavors like glazed and chocolate, or try their seasonal specialties like apple cider and pumpkin spice.
  2. Cookies: Prantl's cookies are generous in size and flavor. Their signature chocolate chip cookies are a crowd-pleaser, while their peanut butter cookies offer a satisfyingly nutty crunch.
  3. Cake: Prantl's offers a variety of cakes, from traditional chocolate and vanilla to more decadent options like their black forest and strawberry shortcake.

1.2. Savory Bites

  1. Pastries: Prantl's also offers a selection of savory pastries, perfect for a light lunch or a quick snack. Their flaky croissants are a popular choice, while their sausage rolls offer a satisfying savory kick.
  2. Bread: Prantl's bakes a variety of breads, including sourdough, rye, and Italian. Their loaves are perfect for sandwiches or simply enjoying with butter or jam.

Prantl's Bakery is a bustling hub of activity, with locals and tourists alike lining up for their delicious treats. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, and the aroma of freshly baked goods fills the air. Whether you're looking for a classic Pittsburgh experience or simply a satisfying snack, Prantl's is a must-visit destination.

2. La Gourmandine: Parisian Elegance in Pittsburgh

For those seeking a touch of Parisian elegance, La Gourmandine is a hidden gem located in the heart of Squirrel Hill, just a short walk from the University of Pittsburgh campus. This bakery offers a sophisticated selection of pastries, with a focus on high-quality ingredients and meticulous craftsmanship.

2.1. French Delights

  1. Macarons: La Gourmandine's macarons are a work of art, with their delicate shells and vibrant colors. They offer a variety of flavors, from classic vanilla and chocolate to more adventurous options like lavender and pistachio.
  2. Croissants: Their croissants are a true testament to French pastry-making, with their flaky layers and buttery flavor. They also offer pain au chocolat, a classic combination of croissant and chocolate.
  3. Pastries: La Gourmandine offers a selection of other French pastries, including éclairs, tarts, and cookies. Their pastries are all made with fresh, seasonal ingredients, and they are sure to satisfy even the most discerning palate.

2.2. Coffee and Atmosphere

La Gourmandine also offers a selection of coffee and tea, perfect for enjoying with your pastries. The bakery has a cozy and inviting atmosphere, with its elegant décor and soft lighting. It's the perfect place to relax and unwind, or to catch up with friends over a cup of coffee and a sweet treat.

La Gourmandine is a true testament to the artistry of pastry-making, and it's a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a sophisticated and delicious experience.

3. The Pie Place: Home of the Perfect Pie

For those who have a sweet tooth and a love for all things pie, The Pie Place is a must-visit destination. Located in the trendy Lawrenceville neighborhood, just a short drive or public transportation ride from Pitt's Oakland campus, The Pie Place is known for its unique flavors and homemade crusts.

3.1. A Pie Paradise

  1. Fruit Pies: The Pie Place offers a variety of fruit pies, including classics like apple and blueberry, as well as more unique options like blackberry lavender and peach ginger. Their pies are made with fresh, seasonal fruit, and they are always bursting with flavor.
  2. Cream Pies: For those who prefer something creamier, The Pie Place also offers a selection of cream pies, including banana cream, chocolate cream, and key lime. Their cream pies are made with a rich and creamy filling, and they are perfect for those who appreciate a classic dessert.
  3. Speciality Pies: The Pie Place also offers a variety of specialty pies, including their famous "Mile High" pie, which is stacked with layers of fruit and crust. They also offer savory pies, perfect for a light lunch or a quick snack.

3.2. Atmosphere and Service

The Pie Place has a warm and inviting atmosphere, with its rustic décor and friendly staff. They also offer a selection of coffee and tea, perfect for enjoying with your pie. The bakery is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, and it's a great place to experience the unique charm of Pittsburgh's Lawrenceville neighborhood.

The Pie Place is a true testament to the power of a well-made pie, and it's a must-visit destination for anyone who loves this classic dessert.

4. Mediterra Bakehouse: A Taste of the Mediterranean

For a taste of the Mediterranean, Mediterra Bakehouse is a must-visit destination. Located in the heart of the Strip District, just a short drive or public transportation ride from Pitt's Oakland campus, Mediterra Bakehouse offers a unique selection of pastries and breads, inspired by the flavors of Greece, Turkey, and the Middle East.

4.1. Mediterranean Flavors

  1. Baklava: Mediterra Bakehouse's baklava is a must-try, with its layers of flaky phyllo dough, sweet syrup, and chopped nuts. They offer a variety of baklava flavors, including traditional walnut and pistachio, as well as more unique options like chocolate and orange.
  2. Turkish Delight: Turkish delight is a traditional Turkish confection made with sugar, starch, and flavoring. Mediterra Bakehouse offers a variety of Turkish delight flavors, including rosewater, lemon, and pistachio. Their Turkish delight is soft, chewy, and bursting with flavor.
  3. Breads: Mediterra Bakehouse also offers a variety of breads, including pita, naan, and sourdough. Their breads are all made with fresh, high-quality ingredients, and they are perfect for sandwiches or simply enjoying with butter or jam.

4.2. Atmosphere and Experience

Mediterra Bakehouse has a warm and inviting atmosphere, with its colorful décor and friendly staff. They also offer a selection of coffee and tea, perfect for enjoying with your pastries. The bakery is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, and it's a great place to experience the unique flavors of the Mediterranean.

Mediterra Bakehouse is a true testament to the diversity of Pittsburgh's culinary scene, and it's a must-visit destination for anyone who enjoys exploring new flavors and cultures.

5. The Breadworks: A Local Favorite

Located in the bustling Shadyside neighborhood, just a short walk or public transportation ride from Pitt's Oakland campus, The Breadworks is a local favorite known for its artisanal breads, pastries, and sandwiches. Their focus on using fresh, local ingredients has earned them a loyal following among students and Pittsburgh residents alike.

5.1. Bread and Pastries

  1. Artisan Breads: The Breadworks specializes in artisanal breads, with a focus on sourdough, rye, and whole wheat varieties. Their loaves are perfect for sandwiches, toasts, or simply enjoying with butter or jam.
  2. Pastries: In addition to bread, The Breadworks also offers a selection of pastries, including croissants, muffins, scones, and cookies. Their pastries are made with fresh, seasonal ingredients, and they are always a treat.
  3. Sandwiches: The Breadworks also offers a selection of sandwiches, all made with their own freshly baked bread. Their sandwiches are a popular choice for lunch or a quick snack.

5.2. Atmosphere and Community

The Breadworks has a warm and inviting atmosphere, with its open kitchen and friendly staff. They also offer a selection of coffee and tea, perfect for enjoying with your bread or pastries. The bakery is a popular spot for locals and students alike, and it's a great place to experience the vibrant community of Shadyside.

The Breadworks is a testament to the power of simple, fresh ingredients and handcrafted baking, and it's a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a delicious and satisfying meal.

6. More Than Just Pastries: A Sweet Treat for Every Occasion

Whether you're craving a classic doughnut, a delicate macaron, or a slice of homemade pie, Pittsburgh's bakeries offer a sweet treat for every occasion. From the historic charm of Prantl's Bakery to the Parisian elegance of La Gourmandine, these local gems are sure to satisfy your cravings and brighten your day.

So, next time you're feeling overwhelmed by the demands of college life, take a break and explore the diverse pastry scene of Pittsburgh. You'll be surprised by the delicious discoveries waiting just steps away from your campus.

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