Beat the Heat: Best Icy Treats and Cool Cafés in Pittsburgh

When Pittsburgh temperatures rise, residents of Shadyside Commons know exactly how to cool off: with a sweet treat or a refreshing iced coffee from one of the neighborhood’s beloved local spots. Located in the heart of the walkable and charming Shadyside neighborhood, Shadyside Commons puts you in proximity to some of the city’s best frozen yogurt shops, ice cream parlors, and cool cafés. 

Whether you’re craving a creamy milkshake or an extra-cold cold brew, this list has you covered.

Treat Ice Cream & Liege Waffles: A Local Favorite

Location: 735 Copeland Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15232

Nestled just off Walnut Street, Treat is an independent boutique-style ice cream shop offering up different flavors of premium local dairy ice cream alongside authentic Belgian Liege waffles. Known for its friendly atmosphere and unique offerings like the Pittsburgh Pride flavor (a butterscotch base with Oreo cookie chunks), Treat is a must-visit for residents of apartments in Shadyside seeking a delightful dessert experience.

Millie’s Homemade Ice Cream: Just a Scoop Away

Location: 232 South Highland Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15206

A Pittsburgh staple and a favorite for locals living in Shadyside Pittsburgh apartments, Millie’s Homemade Ice Cream is known for its rich, handcrafted scoops made from local ingredients. Flavors change seasonally, but you’ll always find refreshing options just ready to be served in a cone or cup. Treat yourself to delicious ice cream that puts you in the summer mood.

Mercurio’s: Gelato and Espresso in Perfect Harmony

Location: 5523 Walnut Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15232

If you can’t choose between dessert and coffee, why not have both? Mercurio’s offers house-made gelato alongside traditional Italian espresso drinks. It’s the ideal pick-me-up on a warm day, especially if you’re strolling through Walnut Street’s boutiques. It’s a local favorite for Shadyside Commons residents. 

Lucid Juice: Refreshing Smoothies and Açaí Bowls

Location: 733 Copeland Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15232

Not far from Shadyside Commons, Lucid Juice is a locally-owned juice bar offering a variety of fresh smoothies, açaí bowls, and cold-pressed juices. Popular choices include the Blue Majik Bowl, PB Nutella Bowl, and the Tropical Fruit Bowl. It’s a perfect spot for health-conscious residents of Shadyside Pittsburgh apartments looking to cool down with a nutritious treat.

Commonplace Coffee: Iced and Irresistible

Location: 5827 Forbes Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15217

For those who prefer a caffeine boost to beat the heat, Commonplace Coffee serves up expertly brewed iced lattes, cold brew, and nitro coffee in a relaxed atmosphere. Grab your drink to-go and explore the lovely community of Squirrel Hill near the Carnegie Mellon University campus. 

Live Near It All at Shadyside Commons

Shadyside Commons offers stylish, modern apartments in Pittsburgh’s popular Shadyside neighborhood, tucked inside a beautifully converted historic building just steps from the city’s coolest cafés and best dessert spots. When you live here, your summer sweet escape is never far from home.

Explore available residences and contact us to learn more. 

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