“This is probably the best independently-owned little shop in the world. Everything is really well curated and eclectic. Fantastic book selection. My favorite place to buy gifts for people. The staff can always recommend something perfect and they’re always really kind.”
“I love, love, LOVE this bookstore! It’s so beautiful with amazing offerings and the cafe attached has some great food/drink options too. I’m always looking for opportunities to support independent bookstores and this one definitely takes the cake! I was working in the area only temporarily but joined the points program anyway because I certainly hope I’ll be back!”
“We are at the bar. The staff was friendly and fun. The food was delicious. The meatballs were sublime. Craft cocktails were better that most places ( try the Italian margarita).”
“Best kids bookstore ever. Selection is expertly curated, inclusive and covers every seasonal holiday from all cultures and backgrounds, which is great when you're in search of something specific. Owner is so passionate about books, can recommend superbly if you just give her an age or general direction, and the gifts selection is unique high quality and can't be beat. Weekly storytime is creative, themed and typically includes a song dance or activity. Get there early as it fills up quickly. We like going to shop, read and play. There's always a few ongoing activity or craft areas for the kids whenever you visit. I've purchased countless gifts there and they even wrap it for you in unique and beautiful paper! Always a hit. We've taken friends and family there and now they're hooked too. I seriously can't recommend this place enough. It's incredible!”
“What an awesome bookstore! We stumbled on this place while running errands. I love collecting vinyl records and they had a huge selection including tons of 45's. My wife found a few great books for the grand kids, great selections and an overall great store. Looking forward to going back when I have more time to peruse.”
“Just look around the store & enjoyed the Strawberry Blended Lemonade for my taste of my experience & its Mr, my brother & my dad to come in this location with Monroeville Mall in Pittsburgh area during our vacation trip.”
“I come here all the time because I have an unhealthy addiction to making my tbr cart way too full and the staff is super friendly and they have a good selection of books. I love cards unlimited in shadyside as well but I tend to always come here more because the selection is always bigger and I walk out with a new book 90% of the time I visit. They have stuff made my local artists, notepads, cards, etc as well so it’s a good place to stop for gifts too”
“What a gem of a store. Great book selection, really cute stationary and crafts section and OMG the stickers! The staff was very friendly. Can't wait to go back.”
“Free parking outside of the building. A large children's area, manga area, and a variety of books for all ages. It has a café within the building. A person is at the help desk located in the center to help locate specific books or other info.”
“A mecca of sorts. Bill is a legend in the alt / indie / underground comics scene and runs this incredible store on his own, seemingly through pure magick and love.The selection is.. overwhelming, to put it mildly, but Bill somehow keeps a mental inventory of everything and will dig through boxes to find you some obscure gems.I wish i could spend weeks here (and a small fortune).Prices are great.The online shop is phenomenal if you can't make it in person.Support this Pittsburgh treasure!”
“I go to Barnes and Noble a lot, I love the environment whether you want to do research with the WiFi, grab any of the books which are plenty to go through and cross reference what you want, or just simply sit and read. Starbucks is great, the one guy (Chad) has been there for a significant amount of time and can make you things that are not on the "menu" tailored to what you want! It would be 5 stars, if it wasn't for the non-handicap doors. Just to add Allison in the store is amazing, super helpful!”
“Went there to frame a painting, it was very nice experience. Was given proper attention and advice on finding a suitable frame. Also there is a 10-20% off based on how many times you have taken the service. I paid about 130 for medium range nice wooden frame for 18x14 painting. More basic options would cost less. They give honest opinion on the pros and cons too.”
11AM - 5:30PM
2028 Murray Ave, Pittsburgh
Book Stores
“Pinskars Wine and Judaica in Squirrel Hill a true gem hidden in plain sight.This charming establishment isn't merely a store; it's a gateway to experiencing Jewish culture and spirituality through the rich flavors of kosher wines and the intricate beauty of Judaica.Upon entering, you're greeted not just by the warmth of the staff but by the welcoming glow of menorahs and the rich hues of handcrafted shofars, each piece telling its own tale of heritage and faith. It's as if you've been invited into a cozy living room.The wine selection at Pinskars is the best I found for Kosher wine in all of Pittsburgh. It’s like a curated journey through the vineyards of Israel, France, Italy, and beyond, offering a symphony of flavors that can elevate any Shabbat dinner or Passover Seder into a memorable feast. Whether you're a connoisseur or simply curious.Great selection and great prices. Highly recommend.”
“Book books books! They have an incredible deal that if you buy three you get one free! I bought some of the most incredible books from the 1900’s still with placeholders and letters inside them. This is not a bookshop you want to skip over, and the employees are very nice, and will help you find what you’re looking for!”
“Great selection of books and office/composition/art supplies, and you can shop there without any university affiliation. Seems like it caters to students at all levels, their families, and anyone curious from the wider community.”
“This store was highly recommended on our tour of Pittsburgh and I can see why. The posted hours do seem to be a bit of a suggestion, but the selection was excellent and varied.”
“Great atmosphere, friendly staff. They have a permanent deal of buy 3 things and get a fourth (under $10) for free. Visited from Chicago and had a great experience”
“We love mary ellen!!! If you are looking for unique decorations or anything that you think is cool you will find it here!! Stop by here you won't be disappointed.”
“Great university and college staff will give you the best opportunity to visit in person, share experiences and enjoy Point Park University campus. I Encourage you to visit the university and enroll in this great University. Point Park University Has many students opportunities, scholarships plus multiple excellent programs in many disciplines including many corporations, funds and such as the National Science Foundation, Hearst Newspapers, etc. Point Park University in Pittsburgh PA also has a great liberal arts program with a major dance, theater and performing arts programs which we enjoyed.”
“Stopped to check out the new store and it’s adorable. I actually like the smaller place, less walking but I feel like it’s not missing anything. Somebody definitely has an artistic vision and it shows. The place looks great! I see others talking about the lack of cafe, coming soon, they will be having a cafe right next door I believe. All is good. I thought all the people were really nice and knowledgeable the day I went. Most places employees don’t have very good customer service skills these days, this place DOES have pretty decent employees from what I saw. Love it!”
“The land of a billion books. If you can't find what you need here, well you'd better get to writing it yourself. They got some pretty awesome candy machines too.”
“Always a great selection of books. I have found several worthwhile gifts or new books for myself even when not especially looking for something. I particularly enjoy the poetry, crafts, and history sections.”
“A well hidden gem! They are a warehouse that sells books online. However, there is a door on side of the building for buying books on site. It’s cash only and you have to know what you’re looking for. They will grab it for you while you wait.I purchased a hardback cookbook that sells for $30 + . Mint condition. I paid $5.00.I believe this business is family run/owned. Very friendly and helpful staff.”