Opening the Mexican War Streets shop was one of the scariest things we’ve ever done. We knew the other shops that had been in that space — we were involved with Beleza Coffee in their early stages. So when we saw a sign from the landlord that said, “if you have interest in being a part of this reopening give us a call,” we gave him a call to see if we could help. As life happens, so did the journey of Commonplace eventually taking on this space.

Just like Squirrel Hill and Voluto, close friends and employees, who were raising a family in the neighborhood, were ready to lead a community effort. Frank and Belle have not just been the force behind this shop opening, but one of the biggest reasons for it becoming what it is today. Their heart and vision have served to create a shop that is community-centric, honors the love and desires of the previous owners, and reflects the mission of Commonplace.

The support from the surrounding community has been the biggest surprise and greatest gift that we’ve received there. Our MWS shop has become a space where people can walk across the street every day, sometimes multiple times a day, and share their lives with us.

If you spend any time in that shop, you’ll quickly discover what an integral part of the neighborhood our MWS shop has become. It’s a place where a familiar face greets you as you walk in the door. There is genuine excitement to get to know you while making your coffee. With floor-to-ceiling windows that look out onto the neighborhood, this small shop was never built for the volume we so gratefully experience now. On weekend mornings, we are at times standing room-only but in the most warm, loving way one could imagine. Our friends and neighbors are multi-generational, multi-cultural, and full of stories and life. We’re also lucky to have people, who are willing to cross a bridge to be a part of it.