Bakery Square — Attraction in Pittsburgh

I moved to Pittsburgh in 2010 precisely because I loved its commitment to historic preservation and how it contributed to its special “sense of place”.

The main edifice within this urban lifestyle center was a former Nabisco factory. Instead of tearing it down for a suburban-styled shopping center like McCandless Crossing or the Village at Pine or The Waterfront they decided to lovingly preserve the building, which is now shared by offices for UPMC and Google, along with the commercial management office.

The office building is joined by smaller structures that are anchored by a hotel and feature a good Thai restaurant (Asiatique), Panera Bread, Jimmy John’s, a PNC financial services branch, a Verizon location, and several retailers (most notably West Elm and Learning Express Toys). There are also two outparcel buildings along Penn Avenue that house Social (bar/restaurant) and Coffee Tree Roasters (local chain). There is also an LA Fitness (formerly Urban Active).

I find it amusing how many people are on here crying about parking. Nobody is forcing you to play the “Hunger Games” with one another to snag one of the few dozen surface spaces near the front. You can park for free for up to three hours in the garage, which is what I always do when visiting. Heck, one time I had some time-consuming shopping and errands there and also wanted lunch, so I moved my car out of the garage and pulled back in again to “cheat” so I wouldn’t have to pay (figuring management wouldn’t care as long as I was spending money at their merchants). Folks, you live in a CITY. Free surface parking is a luxury (and a waste of space, to be quite frank). The garage is there for a reason—use it!

Overall I love Bakery Square. I also love Bakery Living across the street. I’m not affluent, so I can’t afford to rent there, but I’ve made deliveries there and the apartments are lovely!

I haven’t been there since TechShop went out of business. If the space is still vacant a second Greater Pittsburgh location of The Container Store might be a...

I am torn on writing this review, because I was really looking forward to the Galley at Bakery Square being closer to my work and home. However, I am very disappointed in the prices of the food, especially for lunch. I don't feel like the prices are due to the location, because there are other eateries in the area that offer better food at better prices (i.e. NoodleHead, Fire Side Public House). I am not even paying for great ambience, especially during lunch. I suggest offering lunch specials at each restaurant. As the word gets out about the prices, people will stop going there for lunch and eventually for dinner. Let's talk about pricing again... at the two places that I have eaten at so far. One place overcharged me ( the price on the menu was different from what was charged) and then upcharged me for asking for a sauce to go with their tasteless, improperly seasoned, dry chicken. ($20). The other place upcharged me for just adding a protein...any protein to a bibimpap. WHAT!!! The nature of a bibimpap usually includes a protein...WHY AM I PAYING EXTRA!!! In addition, we went there for a business dinner and drinks with the Director of my company. The bartender was very rude to her and my co-workers. The drinks are a little too expensive and the place is too fresh for this attitude. I am looking forward to improvements and watching...

Great place in terms of the following aspects:

Shopping and Dining: The area is home to a wide variety of shops and boutiques, along with numerous restaurants that cater to all tastes. The mention of an ice cream spot and a Starbucks on the corner are tell-tale signs of this bustling hub.

Entertainment: The large outdoor screen you mentioned, which often shows live sports like baseball games, is a signature feature of SouthSide Works. This creates a lively atmosphere perfect for grabbing dinner or a drink and catching a game.

Convenience and Accessibility: With dedicated parking garages for customers and staff, the area is easily accessible for those with cars. For those without, the presence of a nearby bus stop makes it convenient to get to and from other parts of the city. The mix of offices and university staff also points to a location that serves as both a commercial and social center.

Accommodations: The presence of reasonably priced hotels adds to its appeal as a convenient spot for visitors, making it easy to stay and explore the area without needing...