Journey Through Pittsburgh’s Vibrant Black Owned Businesses

As we embrace Black History Month, a time to honor the rich contributions and achievements of the Black community, it’s essential to celebrate and support the businesses that contribute to the cultural tapestry of our cities. Pittsburgh is home to a plethora of Black owned businesses that not only showcase entrepreneurial excellence but also offer a diverse range of products and services.

Join us on a journey through the heart of Pittsburgh as we explore a curated itinerary of Black owned businesses, each with its unique story and contribution.

Morning Delight at Everyday Cafe: Start your day with a visit to Everyday Cafe in Homewood. Immerse yourself in the warm and inviting atmosphere as you sip on a cup of their premium brews, indulge in refreshing smoothies, or savor delectable breakfast dishes. Whether you’re in the mood for a robust coffee or a wholesome breakfast, Everyday Cafe has you covered. Let the welcoming ambiance and delicious offerings set the perfect tone for your day ahead.

(image: John Wallace)

Post-Caffeine Creativity—DIY Organic Skincare: Plants for Skin in Lawrenceville is a Black owned business dedicated to natural beauty where you can pre-book a workshop to craft your own personalized body butter. Alternatively, indulge in a delightful shopping experience within their beautifully curated store, featuring an array of all-natural skincare products.

(image: Ellen K., Yelp)

Lunch at Walter’s Southern Kitchen: Indulge your taste buds at Walter’s Southern Kitchen, a Black owned business celebrated for its mouthwatering dishes. Revel in the warmth of Southern hospitality as you enjoy a delightful atmosphere, outstanding food, and exceptional service while supporting a local business.

(image: Walter’s BBQ Southern Kitchen, Google My Business)

Afternoon Artistry at Kiln N Time: Discover creativity at Kiln N Time in Lawrenceville, a fantastic Black owned businsess. Book ahead for a two-hour glass-fusing session where you can craft a vibrant suncatcher. Alternatively, explore your artistic side with pottery or canvas painting. Unleash your imagination and support a local business fostering artistic expression in the heart of Pittsburgh.

(image: Kiln N Time, Google My Business)

Enjoy a Sweet Snack at Happy Day Dessert Factory: Satiate your sweet tooth at Happy Day Dessert Factory on the North Shore, just a few doors down from our Pittsburgh location. Delight in over 50 flavors of Premium Homemade Hard Ice Cream crafted by local artisans, offering a delectable treat right in our neighborhood. Indulge in the ultimate ice cream experience with our neighbors at Happy Day Dessert Factory.

(image: TWright, Google My Business)

Retail Therapy at Ujamaa Collective: Explore the vibrant offerings of Ujamaa Collective in the Hill District, a cooperative marketplace showcasing handmade products by local Black artisans. Each item, from jewelry to clothing and home decor, narrates a unique story, contributing to the economic empowerment of the Black community.

(image: Ujamaa Collective, Google My Business)

Dinner at Carmi Soul Food Restaurant: Savor a hearty meal at Carmi Soul Food Restaurant in Southside, a renowned Black owned business establishment celebrated for its soulful Southern cuisine. Immerse yourself in classic comfort foods that pay homage to generations of rich culinary traditions.

(image: Carmi Soul Food Restaurant, Google My Business)

Conclude Your Day With a Virtual Yoga Class From YOGAMOTIF: Wrap up your day with a virtual yoga class from YOGAMOTIF, a Black owned business in Pittsburgh. Offering virtual and community yoga and meditation classes, YOGAMOTIF’s virtual studio memberships cater to busy creatives and individuals seeking holistic well-being. Through simple yoga and art practices, they aim to alleviate stress, boost confidence, and infuse joy into everyday wellness.

(image: YOGAMOTIF, Instagram)

Fostering Diversity and Inclusion: Collaborations with Black Owned Businesses

In fostering a vibrant and inclusive community, the Counseling and Wellness Center of Pittsburgh proudly partners with YOGAMOTIF a Black owned yoga studio, as an integral part of our annual Yoga in the Park Summer Series. Collaborating with YOGAMOTIF not only enhances the accessibility of wellness practices but also promotes diversity in the realm of yoga. Through their expertise and dedication to inclusivity, YOGAMOTIF brings a unique and valuable perspective to our community’s well-being.

Simultaneously, our commitment to supporting Black voices and mental health awareness extends to our collaboration with the Pittsburgh Community TV show “Inner City Perceptions with Thom King.” Hosted by Thom King, a Black advocate, our therapists have made appearances on the show, contributing to conversations around mental health and breaking stigmas. This partnership underscores our dedication to fostering open dialogues and amplifying diverse voices in our continuous pursuit of a more equitable and understanding community.

We remain committed to promoting inclusivity and taking further steps to actively support the Black community in Pittsburgh. Within our organization, these principles are embedded in our hiring practices as we actively seek therapists who reflect the diversity of our community. We aspire to have a team that is representative of the rich tapestry of backgrounds and experiences within our diverse community.

Reviewed by: Stephanie Wijkstrom, LPC, and Founder of The Counseling and Wellness Center of Pittsburgh