‘I Love Downtown:’ Pittsburgh Post-Gazette Spotlights Why Businesses Choose Downtown

Despite the challenges downtowns faced across the country following the pandemic, a recent series in the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette explores why Downtown Pittsburgh is ‘still a destination’ for new businesses.

In 2023, 20 new businesses opened their doors in the Golden Triangle, joining a robust community of 400 retailers, boutiques, restaurants, cafes, salons and offices in the downtown area. Many local establishments reported that 2023 was their most successful year ever, thanks in large part to a significant boost in visitors throughout the holiday season. Meanwhile, real estate developers are seizing on the resilience and desirability of Downtown, citing high sales and potential for growth, particularly in residential development.

These stories are often overshadowed by headlines that focus solely on the challenges Downtown has faced in the wake of the pandemic. To change the narrative, a recent article in the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette highlights why new businesses are drawn to the city center, underscoring continued optimism, interest and investment in the heart of the region.

With the help of the Downtown Neighbors Alliance, the Post-Gazette published a series of profiles on Downtown businesses, shedding light on why these ventures are proud to call the Golden Triangle home.

Here are what some of the featured business owners had to say:

“We believe the city of Pittsburgh is going in the right direction, that this neighborhood is going in the right direction. We’re excited to be part of it.”

Adam Halberg, CEO of The Barcelona Wine Bar, which opened a new location on Penn Avenue in January 2024. Read the full article.

“We feel very strong and supportive of Downtown in general and we know that there’s a lot of efforts being made to keep it clean and safe, like the Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership. We have a very strong relationship with other small business owners Downtown. We support each other and recommend each other. And I think it’s just really important to continue to be an advocate for Downtown Pittsburgh in general.”

Monica Grunick, co-owner of love, Pittsburgh, which operates a location on Liberty Avenue, and a sister store in Market Square. Read the full article.

“We felt this was our time to give something back in the form of a love letter to Pittsburgh because we love it so much.”

Herky Pollock, co-owner of Ritual House, which opened in 2023 on the ground floor of the Union Trust Building. Read the full article.

“Even while people have been working from home, the location is central. I love Downtown.”

Brandon Johnson, co-owner of Cultural Hair Lounge located in Gateway Towers. Read the full article.

Other businesses featured in the series include Alihan’s, Instanbul Grille, Art & Soul Café, Beto’s Tacos, New Age Attire, and UFC Gym.