Vendor Bender

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1 month ago

This place is an easy way to explore the awesome food and drink you can find around the world. We're so lucky to have this local treasure here. My husband and I love to travel internationally and buy all kinds of cool candies when we travel. You can find so many interesting things when you do. It's so much fun to browse all the different cool Options. You can find the things that look interesting and where they are from. Even the packaging is fun to see. We have had great candy bars from England, Australia, Japan, Korea, Greece, Turkey, Jamaica, Costa Rica, Colombia and Mexico. I really love the drinks from Greece, Lebanon and Cyprus. You can't go wrong exploring new things globally. Some are good. Some aren't. It's fun to be adventurous and try things out. read more

Vendor Bender - Pomegranate from Cyprus - Specialty Food Near Me - Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Vendor Bender - Amazing peanut butter with honeycomb from Australia - Specialty Food Near Me - Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Vendor Bender - Chocolate wafer Turkieye - Specialty Food Near Me - Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Vendor Bender - Soft candies that look like Starburst from Croatia. - Specialty Food Near Me - Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

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Zitlalli Leyva D.

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2 months ago

Found a 24/7 vending machine spot in Squirrel Hill that has snacks from around the world but zero employees; it's giving unsupervised field trip energy. You an also find drinks and small toiletries. There are quarter machines at the front of the room as well if you're feeling nostalgic. The idea is great but the execution needs work because if a machine eats up your money there is no one there to ask for help. read more

Vendor Bender - vending machines - Specialty Food Near Me - Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Vendor Bender - quarter machines - Specialty Food Near Me - Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Vendor Bender - outside - Specialty Food Near Me - Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

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Keirstin C.

87

65

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3 months ago

This I a really cool concept. The area is super clean and well kept. I went when they were running their luck of the irish promotion where they had money taped on the back of different treats (I didn't win) It got a little congested after a while so be prepared for that. It's not a huge space and it's on a main road so parking can be difficult but I didn't have any trouble. I chose random things out of the blue. Some good some bad. I'm looking forward to trying more they have so much! read more

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Kelly B.

23

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1 year ago

We stopped by this place almost every time we come into the city. It is so much fun to try snacks from all over the world. The prices are fair and you don't have to interact with anyone. It is big a room with little to look at. They have a selection of vending machines and normally not too busy. I don't think there is any seating, and it is more like grab and go. read more

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Karla D.

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4 years ago

Yay!!! They're finally open. Vendor Bender is amazing!!! They have vending machines with snacks, candy and drinks from all over the world. What a fantastic concept and so glad Pittsburgh has one like other places around the globe. There will be some items that are continually offered (50%) while the rest will be on rotation. I'm so excited to be able to hop one neighborhood over to get treats that I usually have access to during my travels. A++++++++++++ read more

Vendor Bender - a vending machine with a variety of snacks - Specialty Food Near Me - Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Vendor Bender - a variety of snacks and drinks - Specialty Food Near Me - Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

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Business owner information

Derek G.

We are so thankful for your kind words and positive experience

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Jessica F.

139

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190

3 years ago

This place is so much fun! Vending machines filled with snacks from all around the world. There is everything from gummy candies, to chips, chocolates, ice cream, cheeses, dips, beverages... everything is clearly labeled with the country it's from. There are even plenty of things from the US that I had never seen before. The inventory changes frequently so there is always something new to try. I think this is an amazing and novel concept and can't wait to go back and try something new!! read more

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Kate M.

Elite 21

128

191

136

2 years ago

What a great concept! It's definitely a no-frills kind of venue, but the incredible selection more than makes up for the pretty plain presentation. There is so much choice between candies, chips and drinks from around the world that it can be a bit daunting. Perhaps there could be better translation for a few of them, but the labels usually give you a good idea. Google can help with the rest. Most options are under $5, some much less, so it makes a great cheap date. I got some cappuccino flavored cookies from Costa Rica for 95 cents and a hazelnut chocolate bar from Greece for about $3. I'm told they're always getting different things, too. Don't worry if you don't have cash - all of the machines take credit cards! read more

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Natalie B.

208

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3 years ago

What a cool idea!! I love European candy especially the chocolate. Having so many selections was so awesome and I loved seeing all the different countries they had snacks from. The vending machines added a fun pop of nostalgia and I love that they take credit cards. Can't wait to come back for more snacks! read more

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Jayme B.

146

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3 years ago

Such a cool concept in Squirrel Hill. This place is a no frills space with multiple vending machines, serving up international (and some local) snacks. They have all kinds of snacks to fit your craving (gummies, chocolate, chips, drinks, etc). While we were there, the owner was there and we chatted with him for a while. He was very nice and explained how this place came to be. He also stated that they recently began being opened 24 hours a couple of months ago. There were so many options. I had to get a few things to try. Will definitely be back to try some other items. Such a fun addition to Pittsburgh! read more

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Darren G.

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0

2 years ago

Great concept, wish I'd have thought about this unique experience and business model! Pretty straight forward vending experience, but the twist is on the global content. I was able to check out some newer snacks and revisit ones from when I was living in Asia. Each time I've went the room was pretty quiet and you didn't really have to wait. I'd recommend as a unique thing to do when in the area. read more

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Natalie H.

Elite 24

237

360

138

3 years ago

Definitely a quirky place, but the concept of trying snack foods and drinks from all over the world is pretty cool. Also appreciate the accessibility and the fact that it's always open, so you can swing by for a snack anytime. I frequently go on long walks through the neighborhood and this is about the halfway point, so it's perfect to pick up a fun drink to sip on the walk home. The decor (or lack thereof) and general vibes is pretty dismal though? I feel like they could have spent a bit more money to spruce up the lighting a little and make it feel less sterile. It is a pretty unwelcoming environment. I imagine they don't want people hanging out in the shop itself though, since it is not staffed. I also think it would be cool if there was some background info on some of the foods, other than the country it's from. I guess that's what Google is for though. read more

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carl k.

409

11

3

4 years ago

This place is amazing great unique food all around the world are you a different taste? Want candy bars from Croatia? Derek has them peach drinks from china? Check a fun and great way to get your snacks and he is a great guy Check it out read more

Business owner information

Derek G.

Thank you Carl. Pleasure to meet you! Thanks for your support…

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Marisa M.

1

11

37

3 years ago

i had so much fun. got some silly stuff. lots of options. they take card get a kat kat tat (puff pastry with hazelnut) read more

Vendor Bender - hungr - Specialty Food Near Me - Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

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Danielle S.

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4 years ago

I feel like the universe has heard me. While I love great food (who doesn't?), I never really considered myself a "foodie". Snacks, on the other hand, have always been my jam...and now I have a store dedicated to exactly that. Not just snacks, snacks from all over the PLANET!!! I can't wait to go back and try more! If you haven't been here yet, you are really missing out. It's such a cool and original idea, perfect for the area and just what we've been missing! read more

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Ira K.

0

1

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4 years ago

You must check it out. It's absolutely an out of world experience. You will be glad you did! read more

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Alex F.

0

3

1

4 years ago

At first I didn't like the idea of a store full of vending machines because it was impersonal, and then I saw that many of the products could be already purchased at area retailers which also turned me off, but I still decided to give it a chance and try something interesting. It WAS Interesting all right, it was EXPIRED--7 months out of date! Had I been in an actual store I could have seen that firsthand when I picked up the product, but instead not only lost my money, but would never eat an old product--especially a foreign one. I only wonder what else is expired in those machines? read more

Vendor Bender - 7 months out of date and stale - Specialty Food Near Me - Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

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Paula A.

0

2

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4 years ago

What a unique and special gem right in Squirrel Hill! We had a blast trying lots of different items from all over the world This place offers a huge variety of chips, candy, and drinks and trust me - there's a snack for everyone. The owner was on-site and able to provide suggestions and advice for various things we may enjoy and everything we tried was delicious. My kids are already asking when we can go back! read more

Business owner information

Derek G.

Thank you for your support and kind words!

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Kevin A.

1

2

0

4 years ago

This new store is something special. Such a unique variety of chips, candy and drinks from all around the world -- sold out of vending machines. I can go into this shop and try out new and different items, or I can get something from the USA which I know and love. I can do all of this without talking to anyone. When I went into the store, the owner, Derek, was out and about fielding some questions and generally welcoming customers. I have never seen another store or business quite like this and I am impressed. Definitely give this place a visit, you won't be disappointed!!! read more

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More info about Vendor Bender

2301 Murray Ave
Pittsburgh, PA 15217
Squirrel Hill
Directions
(412) 559-0904
Call Now

Hours

What time does Vendor Bender open?

Vendor Bender is open 24 hours on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

What time does Vendor Bender close?

Vendor Bender is open 24 hours on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

Mon-Sun Open 24 hours

Outdoor Amenities

Does Vendor Bender have parking?

Yes, Vendor Bender has parking options.

More Info

Health Score

Review Highlights - Vendor Bender

“What a fantastic concept and so glad Pittsburgh has one like other places around the globe.”

Mentioned in 6 reviews

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Squirrel Hill Market

4.0

(27 reviews)

0.1 mi

Recently, a relative in the Pittsburgh area went through a medical procedure, so we wanted to send…read morethem some great food. Squirrel Hill Market came through. We ordered matzo ball soup, corned beef, knishes, and latkes--everything was fresh, comforting, and absolutely delicious. We also spoke with the owner, and it's clear he genuinely cares and knows his stuff. Being from NY and Philly, we know a good deli--and this one delivers. If you're in the Pittsburgh area, I highly recommend Squirrel Hill Market.

Absolutely incredible! This is the BEST cornbeef sandwich I've ever eaten. And trust me I've tried…read moremany. The meat was fresh, the Swiss cheese melted to perfection, and the rye bread was perfectly toasted. I did not miss the absence of toppings. The pickle was incredible! The market has a selection of items you can't find everywhere. It's cute and quaint with amazing photos. I literally love this place. And service is top notch!!! I'm certainly going to be a repeat customer.

Squirrel Hill Market 2130 Murray Avenue Pittsburgh, PA 15217 Next to Mineo's Pizza House

The huge sandwich!

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Many More Marketplace

4.6

(5 reviews)

3.3 mi

Cannot believe I just found this place. If you are looking for any eastern cooking ingredients this…read moreis the place. I needed a map for all the aisles. First time there, but not the last. I got the Char shu pork very tasty. Also had a cheese bread baked fresh in site. The bread was delicious. Can't wait to try some more next trip. Also very clean and wide aisles easy to get around and parking was easy accessible to store either entrance.

No longer gate keeping!! This is my go to take out spot when I want an amazing to go meal/ too lazy…read moreto cook! Super dependable and the best Cantonese BBQ around. The menu is super diverse and very authentic. I got the braised beef noodle soup and the roast duck platter - usually my go to order. Place it at the counter and while you wait you can shop for your Asian grocery essentials. I bought one of the viral mango ice creams here along with tons of Chinese veggies and frozen dumplings and before I knew it my food was ready! Easy parking, although gets super busy on the weekends and staff is super helpful! Pro Tip: apply for their free VIP member card - it gets you exclusive, cheaper prices on many items. Tip #2, don't sleep on Asian grocery store seafood. It's almost always cheaper than other mainstream stores like Whole Foods and you're supporting small business so it's a win win!

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Wild Purveyors

Woah, I dont think anybody else has reviewed what this business has become here in the last couple…read moreweeks. They are crushing it selling quality meats, veg and such to the general public and it looks like they are doing it in a safer manner than any grocery store I've seen. I took some of the chicken feta and spinach sausages, gave them a real quick sear in cast iron and then a light drizzle of olive oil wrapped in tin foil. Basically a confit/braise. It was a beautiful thing. The leftover cheese fat was borderline life changing drizzled over some roasted potatoes. All the sausages and cheeses have been amazing so far. Some of the meats I know are the same things that places like Burgatory and Morcilla have sold. Not sure what all other restaurants they were selling to until recently but it seems like a lot. I havnt grabbed a veg box yet, but plan to on Wednesday. It looked like the people in front of me got that and oat milk. I guess that's cool for the vegans, but not my thing. Anyhow, all in all I'm super stoked about this service and will be using it extensively for the foreseeable future.

Great group good products here's to you continued success! We need more businesses like Wild…read morePurveyors

Appalachian Black Winter Truffles

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Murray Avenue Kosher Inc

The best sandwiches ever! My friend raved about their food to me so I had to go try it and it did…read morenot disappoint. Will go back if I'm ever in town again!

They have mostly everything I would need. It's just not well organized. I've learned where things…read moreare just by going often, but if I need something I don't normally get, I really have a hard time finding it. The deli is a great add, but not a quick grab.

Interesting wares.

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Feast Gourmet Market and Eatery

The cutest little community market/deli with a great selection. I didn't even get a picture of the…read morehanging menus because there were so many other things to take in. Sauces, sodas, sweets, chips, cheeses, chocolates, you name it. The deli options all look DEVINE. They also have some basic grocery staples. We got some of the chopped salad to have with our sandwiches. They have a small eating area through the walkway where you can also buy beer and wine. We got the crab cake sandwich and the feast Rachel. Crab cake sandwich was meaty and a great value. The Rachel sandwich came loaded with turkey! The service was fast and friendly. What a gem to have in the neighborhood for anyone that lives close by. Can't wait to return and try another sandwich! Thank you Feast!

I love going into Feast and discovering something different every time. The attached wine shop is…read moreso cool and always has interesting wines that you don't see elsewhere. I am also signed up for their monthly wine club and have been super thrilled with that as well.

Chicken Club Sandwich (no bacon)

Seating area

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Sliding doors lead to deli/market

The Open Road

5.0

(14 reviews)

2.4 mi

I stopped drinking in January 2025 for medical reasons. Since then it has been amazing and at times…read moredisheartening to me to realize how embedded alcohol is in social life, and how easy it is to not feel a part of the moment when you are no longer drinking. The Open Road is here in the up-and-coming Garfield neighborhood to help supply sober and sober curious people, and really anyone interested in cutting back on alcohol or supporting someone who is, with delicious beverages that help you feel like you're not missing out on a thing. There are nonalcoholic beers, spirit-free versions of things like gin, bourbon, bitters and truly anything else you might need to make yourself alcohol free drinks at home. There are also pre-canned and bottled options where you don't have to do any of the work, nonalcoholic wine and bubbly, functional beverages with added benefits, the amount of choice is nearly overwhelming in the best possible way. It's a clean, open vibe in the shop and the staff is kind and helpful. I have bought from them a number of times throughout the year at various pop-ups but this was my first visit to the shop and of course won't be my last. They are regulars at Pittsburgh festivals and other events and I'm deeply appreciative for their presence in the community!

Awesome selection of NA beer, wine, spirits, fun wellness drinks, drinks for the 4/20 friendly,…read morebevs for the health conscious non drinkers, etc! Truly something for everyone! I'm not sober but this store is for everyone! I started shopping here a couple of years ago during Dry January. I now do Dry July or dry-ish July too They have so many options! Great for cutting down your drinking or completely abstaining. Also really great to pick things up here if you're having a party, get together, company over, and so on. I personally have a couple of pregnant friends who cannot drink but like Non alcoholic wine. This is just such an amazing concept as a store and it's awesome seeing places like this start to pop up. More people are cutting back or going sober and you never know someone's reason for not drinking!

My NA fun drinks fridge (some are not from the open road but most are)

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Fat Butcher

4.8

(34 reviews)

3.7 mi

First time in the shop! Very welcoming and helpful staff, I gave them an idea of what I wanted to…read moremake for dinner and they helped me pick the perfect cut of steak! Love the decor in the shop. There were many prepared food options in the fridge, as well as various cuts of meat/preparations of it. We got two sandwiches, the cheesesteak and the marbella. I dont think we ended up with the correct order because we didn't end up with a cheesesteak, but did not realize until we got home. I'm positive that if I went back to the shop they would've remedied the situation, but I didn't feel it was necessary! The sandwich we did end up with was good as well, unsure which one it was though. Very fair prices, and our dog was so happy we brought him home a bone as well! Looking forward to coming back and trying everything they have to offer.

Fat Butcher sells meats from pasture-raised cows, lamb, pigs, chicken, and others that are sourced…read morefrom local farmers in Western Pennsylvania. The business practices whole-animal, nose-to-tail butchery that respects the animals. Even bones and fat are used. My husband and I shopped here one time. On a Saturday afternoon, we drove around the neighborhood for 30 minutes before we found a paid parking spot. Other customers were inside the store, but the employees in the store served us promptly and politely. We saw cuts of beef, pork, lamb, and poultry as well as sandwiches, soups, spices, maple syrup, etcetera. We did not see as many unique meats as larger butcher shops sell. Prices were OK. We bought beef skewers and cooked them at home. We thought that the quality of the meat could have been better, but we liked the juiciness and flavors.

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20th Market at Penn

5.0

(1 review)

3.5 mi

We love this little artisan market in the strip district!…read more There are a handful of different vendors set up we can be sure to get some hand made quality items, either for home or souvenirs! I snatched up a filled hoof for my pup from this amazing lady who has all organic dog treats. She also ships! Be sure to mosey on in here while you are browsing through the strip!

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I love this vendor!

Tabbara Artisan Chocolate

4.0

(1 review)

1.9 mi

Tabbara Artisan Chocolate is a family-owned business that sells chocolates that are hand-made at…read moretheir manufacturing facility Saad Chocolatier LLC. Customers may purchase the chocolates through the business's website or from several Pittsburgh-area stores. Examples of products are a chocolate tree, chocolate gift box, truffles, and chocolates in flavors such as almond, caramel, coffee, coriander, date, hazelnut, orange, passion fruit, peanut, pecan, pistachio, raspberry, speculoos, tea, and vanilla. I bought the Chocolate Assortment No. 1 that contained 24 pieces of dark, milk, white, and other chocolates for $45. Shipping cost $15. Compared to other Pittsburgh-area chocolatiers, the price for these chocolates was higher. The business shipped my package to me the next day, and FedEx delivered it to me one day later. The chocolates looked fancy and were a good quality. My favorite flavors were the mendiant (gianduja hazelnuts), caramel, passion fruit, raspberry, manon (white chocolate ganache with caramel), croquant (hazelnuts), and pacci (slightly different hazelnuts).

Church Brew Works

We enjoy the theme of this Brewery. It is such a large space. They have several different beers and…read moreit's just a cool experience. How many places can you say where you're drinking beer inside the church. They do have a restaurant here and when we stop by on a Monday night, they were we're pretty steady. There is street parking around this location as well. I had the strawberry rhubarb summer ale. It was very light, but still had great room. An easy summer drinker. My husband had the pious monk dunkel and enjoyed it - come to find out - he had it before the last time we were here!

Well, start with this venue is top-notch very impressive, and all the extra detail that has been…read moreleft as part of the church is totally awesome. As for the food, I have zero complaints. It was totally excellent and really, really enjoyed it. My same complaints as most of these kind of places the beer is never cold enough. Why can't they be colder....this is my only complaint...so

Shrimp margherita pasta

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Front alternator area

The Nook

Everything was excellent! The food was spot on delicious, the service was excellent, the atmosphere…read morewas quirky-fun but pleasant. We had a little bit of a wait but it gave us time to review the menu. Hubby had the chicken and waffles, my son had the salmon eggs Benedict, and I had the pancakes with berries. We all thoroughly enjoyed our food. The waiter was fantastic as well!

We arrived at 9am on a Saturday which is when they allegedly open according to their website…read more(Google says 8am) and there were already tons of people seated and even a table that diners had finished eating at so there is definitely something inaccurate with their published hours. Thankfully we didn't have to wait for a table for 3 (the folks in front of us in line most have had a bigger table and were given a wait time). I really enjoyed the vibe here as well as the food. I tried the waffle Benedict and thought it was great. Definitely worth a visit for breakfast but their weekend hours should be updated if they open they open before 9am...

Restaurant interior

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Outdoor seating

La Prima Espresso Co

MY FAVORITE!! La…read morePrima has my heart, especially the Strip District location This is the very first La Prima Espresso shop, located at 21st & Penn. It's also a veteran-owned small business, which makes supporting it even better. With the warmer weather coming, I love seeing people outside playing cards, sipping lattes, and bringing their dogs along. You can grab fresh beans to make at home, enjoy local pastries in the morning (until they sell out), and the baristas are incredibly talented. Such a special spot full of history, community, and really great coffee.

For old school Pittsburgh vibes, you must check out LaPrima at their original location in the Strip…read moreDistrict for an espresso. The cafe is counter service...expect a wait on the weekends... the baristas are fantastic!!! but there is a steady line of customer during the day. Limited Standing room inside and table seating outside. The coffee beans are roasted in Pittsburgh and make a delicious brew for sipping at the cafe or to take home. Enjoy!

Counter.

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Mediterra Cafe

I have been here a couple of times and have never had a bad experience! The whole ordering then…read moresitting is scary when they are busy BUT I will say even when they're super packed there always seems to be a table open at the time you need it! The breakfast sammie is a staple for me and I mean look at it!! Cooked to absolute perfection the homemade English muffin really takes it to the next level! The Shakshouka was bomb the eggs were poached to perfection! The bread was nice and fresh it was soft but still sturdy enough to use to dip! The cereal milk latte is another staple for me I mean how can it not be. The espresso was delicious and the Honey Nut Cheerios was the perfect subtle flavor! Not too sweet which i appreciate. Speaking of sweet the zebra cakes were INSANE. Huge and only $5 which I thought wasn't bad! Always delicious here and vibes are great both inside and out!

Mediterra Cafe is a local, family-owned cafe, bakery, and market. The cafe serves breakfast (e.g.,…read moreFrench toast, shakshuka, salmon toast, and quiche) and lunch (e.g., salads, sandwiches, and pizzas). I visited the bakery and market on a busy Saturday. Display cases were full of baked goods such as cookies, cake pops, cupcakes, cruffins, tarts, cakes, breads. I have been to the Mediterranean, and I thought that most of the baked goods here were not Mediterranean. While I waited in a slowly moving line of other customers to order from the bakery, I browsed the shelves in the market. I saw cheeses, bottled beverages such as wines, packaged foods such as grape leaves, and chocolates. I could not find price tags on all foods, so I recommend that those be added. I purchased three baked goods for a total of $15. I rate the croissticky as 5 stars, the cinnamon roll as 3.5 stars, and the raisin-oatmeal cookie as 4 stars.