Love the idea of city living, but not sure Downtown Pittsburgh is where you want to call home?

Good news: living in the city doesn’t have to mean living in the middle of Downtown.

Pittsburgh is a city of neighborhoods, and some of its most connected areas offer the restaurants, coffee shops, entertainment, employers, parks and everyday conveniences renters want—without putting you directly in the center of Downtown.

For renters who want an active city lifestyle with a little more room to slow down, Pittsburgh’s East End offers an appealing alternative. And at Bakery Living Apartments, you’re close to Bakery Square, Shadyside and East Liberty, putting several of Pittsburgh’s most popular destinations within easy reach.

Jump Ahead:

• What Does City Living Actually Mean?
• Bakery Square: Work, Food and Fun
• Explore Nearby Pittsburgh Neighborhoods
• Green Space in the City
• A Home Base for Pittsburgh Students
• Apartment Amenities at Bakery Living
• Do You Need to Live Downtown?
• Frequently Asked Questions

What Does “City Living” Actually Mean?

For some renters, city living means being surrounded by skyscrapers and sports arenas. For others, it’s much more about what they can access once they walk out their front door.

Think about your everyday routine.

Can you grab coffee nearby? Meet friends for dinner without making a night out of the commute? Get to work conveniently? Walk your dog somewhere green? Fit in a workout? Pick up groceries? Find something fun to do on the weekend?

Those are the things that can make an apartment feel connected to the city, regardless of whether your address is Downtown.

That’s part of what makes Pittsburgh’s East End so appealing.

Bakery Square Brings Work, Food and Fun Together

One of the biggest benefits of living near Bakery Square is having so much happening close to home.

Bakery Square has evolved into a major destination for dining, shopping, events and employment in Pittsburgh’s East End. Living nearby makes it easier to grab a meal, meet up with friends, attend a community event or take care of everyday errands without always having to head Downtown.

It’s especially convenient for professionals working in the area. Bakery Living is located near major employers including Google and UPMC, allowing some residents to spend less time commuting and more time enjoying where they live.

For remote and hybrid workers, that proximity can be just as valuable. Being able to step away from your apartment for coffee, lunch or a change of scenery can make working from home feel a lot less like staying home all day.

You’re Close to More Than One Pittsburgh Neighborhood

Another perk of living in this part of Pittsburgh? You don’t have to choose just one neighborhood.

Bakery Living puts residents near Bakery Square, Shadyside and East Liberty, each offering a different way to spend your day.

Head toward Shadyside for boutique shopping, restaurants and a stroll along Walnut Street. Explore East Liberty when you’re in the mood for dining, nightlife and everyday conveniences. Stay closer to home and enjoy everything happening around Bakery Square.

Instead of having one main destination, you have options—and that’s a major part of the appeal of living in Pittsburgh’s East End.

City Living Can Still Include Green Space

City lifestyle and outdoor space don’t have to be opposites.

Mellon Park and Frick Park are both near Bakery Living, giving residents access to green space without leaving the city.

That can make a big difference in everyday life.

Dog owners have nearby places to get outside and explore. Runners and walkers can swap the treadmill for time outdoors. On a nice Pittsburgh afternoon, residents can head to the park instead of planning an entire trip outside the city.

It’s one of the reasons the East End can feel like a balance between an active urban environment and a more relaxed residential setting.

An Easy Home Base for Pittsburgh Students, Too

City living isn’t only about where you work.

Bakery Living is also located near Chatham University, Carnegie Mellon University and the University of Pittsburgh, making the area worth considering for graduate students, international students and others looking for off-campus housing with access to Pittsburgh’s university communities.

Instead of living directly on campus, residents can have their own home base while remaining connected to school, restaurants, shopping, parks and the rest of the East End.

For someone moving to Pittsburgh for the first time, having everyday conveniences and several major destinations nearby can also make getting familiar with the city a little easier.

Your Apartment Should Make City Life Easier

Location is important, but what happens once you’re home matters just as much.

Bakery Living offers more than 50 floor plan options, ranging from studios to one- and two-bedroom apartments, giving renters different options depending on how they actually live.

And amenities are most useful when they fit into your routine.

A 24-hour fitness center means residents can work out when it works for their schedule rather than planning around gym hours.

A business center and conference room gives remote and hybrid workers another place to take a meeting or change up their work environment.

The pool and sundecks give residents a place to relax, spend time outside or catch up with friends without needing to leave home.

And regular resident social events give people—especially those who are new to Pittsburgh—another opportunity to meet their neighbors and feel connected to their community.

That’s the difference between simply having amenities and having amenities you can actually use.

So, Do You Need to Live Downtown to Get a Pittsburgh City Lifestyle?

Not at all.

If your version of city living means being close to restaurants, employers, universities, entertainment, parks and things to do, Pittsburgh offers plenty of options beyond Downtown.

The East End is especially well suited to renters who want to stay connected to the action while coming home to a neighborhood that can feel a little more residential.

At Bakery Living Apartments, residents are positioned near Bakery Square, Shadyside and East Liberty, with access to some of Pittsburgh’s major employers, universities and green spaces.

You get the energy of the city—and a place to come home and unwind.

Frequently Asked Questions About Living Near Bakery Square

Is Bakery Living located in Downtown Pittsburgh?

No. Bakery Living is located at 6454 Living Place in Pittsburgh’s East End, near Bakery Square, Shadyside and East Liberty.

What neighborhoods are near Bakery Living?

Bakery Living is close to Bakery Square, Shadyside and East Liberty, giving residents convenient access to restaurants, shopping, entertainment, parks and other everyday destinations throughout Pittsburgh’s East End.

What major employers are near Bakery Living?

Bakery Living is located near major Pittsburgh employers including Google and UPMC.

Is Bakery Living near Pittsburgh universities?

Yes. Bakery Living is convenient to Chatham University, Carnegie Mellon University and the University of Pittsburgh, making it an option for renters searching for off-campus housing in Pittsburgh.

Are there parks near Bakery Living?

Yes. Residents can enjoy nearby green spaces including Mellon Park and Frick Park, offering opportunities for walking, running, relaxing outdoors and spending time with pets.

What apartment sizes does Bakery Living offer?

Bakery Living offers more than 50 floor plan options, including studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom apartments.

Find Your Happy Place at Bakery Living

Want a Pittsburgh apartment that keeps you connected without putting you directly Downtown?

Explore Bakery Living Apartments and discover a community where Pittsburgh’s East End, everyday conveniences and modern apartment living come together.

View available floor plans and find your happy place at Bakery Living.

The post Can You Have a City Lifestyle Without Living Downtown Pittsburgh? appeared first on Bakery Living Blog.

Living in a walkable neighborhood means your favorite coffee shop, grocery store, fitness studio, restaurant, park, or entertainment venue is just a short walk away. Instead of planning every outing around traffic and parking, you can simply step outside and explore your neighborhood.

If you're looking for an apartment in Pittsburgh, here's why walkability should be at the top of your checklist—and which Walnut Capital communities make it easy to enjoy a walkable lifestyle.

What Does Walkability Mean?

A walkable neighborhood makes it easy to accomplish everyday tasks on foot. Rather than relying on your car for every errand, you can walk to places you visit regularly, including:

• Coffee shops
• Grocery stores
• Restaurants
• Fitness centers
• Parks
• Public transportation
• Shopping
• Entertainment
• Pharmacies
• Everyday services

Walkability isn't just about convenience—it creates a more connected lifestyle where your neighborhood becomes part of your daily routine.

Save Time Every Day

One of the biggest benefits of living in a walkable Pittsburgh neighborhood is the amount of time you'll save.

Instead of driving across town for dinner or circling the block looking for parking, you can simply walk to your destination. Whether you're grabbing coffee before work, meeting friends for lunch, or picking up groceries after the gym, everything feels more convenient when it's close to home.

Over time, those saved minutes add up to more free time for the things you actually enjoy.

Discover Local Restaurants, Coffee Shops, and Small Businesses

One of the best parts of Pittsburgh is that every neighborhood has its own personality—and its own collection of locally owned businesses.

Living in a walkable neighborhood makes it easier to support local restaurants, cafés, bakeries, and boutiques while discovering new favorites along the way.

Some of Pittsburgh's most walkable dining districts include:

Bakery Square & East Liberty

Home to restaurants like Alta Via Pizzeria, Tako Torta, Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams, and plenty of cafés and breweries.

Walnut Capital Spotlight: Bakery Living and Walnut on Highland

Shadyside

Known for Walnut Street shopping, neighborhood cafés, outdoor dining, and local favorites like Shady Grove, Girasole, and Noodlehead.

Walnut Capital Spotlight: Bellefonte, Howe & Maryland, 517 St. James Place, and 631 St. James Place.

Squirrel Hill

Walk to authentic international cuisine, neighborhood bakeries, specialty grocery stores, and favorites like Everyday Noodles, Pigeon Bagels, and Mineo's Pizza House.

Walnut Capital Spotlight: Walnut on the Park, Walnut Towers at Frick Park, Hempstead Apartments, and Hobart Court.

Downtown Pittsburgh

Walk from your apartment to Market Square, sporting events, theaters, restaurants, coffee shops, and the Cultural District.

Walnut Capital Spotlight: The Commonwealth Building and The Washington at Chatham.

South Side Flats

Enjoy East Carson Street's restaurants, breweries, boutiques, fitness studios, and the Three Rivers Heritage Trail.

Walnut Capital Spotlight: Hot Metal Flats and The Jones.

A Walkable Neighborhood Makes It Easier to Stay Active

Walkability naturally encourages movement throughout the day. Instead of driving everywhere, you're more likely to:

• Walk to dinner
• Grab coffee on foot
• Explore nearby parks
• Bike to work
• Enjoy an evening stroll
• Use neighborhood trails

Communities near parks like Frick Park or the Three Rivers Heritage Trail offer even more opportunities to enjoy the outdoors close to home.

Convenience Can Improve Your Everyday Routine

Walkability isn't just about entertainment—it's about making everyday life easier. Imagine being able to:

• Pick up groceries on your way home
• Walk to your favorite workout class
• Meet friends for happy hour without worrying about parking
• Grab takeout after work in just a few minutes
• Visit a local coffee shop while working remotely

When everything is nearby, daily routines become more efficient and enjoyable.

Walkability Can Help Reduce Transportation Costs

Living closer to the places you visit most often may also help reduce transportation expenses. Depending on your lifestyle, you may spend less on:

• Gas
• Parking fees
• Ride-share services
• Vehicle wear and tear

Many of Pittsburgh's walkable neighborhoods also provide easy access to public transportation, making it simple to get around the city without relying on your car every day.

Walkable Neighborhoods Build Stronger Communities

Walkable neighborhoods offer more than convenience—they create opportunities to feel connected to the place you call home. When restaurants, coffee shops, grocery stores, parks, and everyday essentials are just a short walk away, it's easier to spend more time enjoying your neighborhood instead of driving from place to place.

That convenience often leads to discovering local favorites, supporting small businesses, attending community events, browsing farmers markets, and spending time in nearby green spaces. Along the way, you're more likely to meet neighbors, explore new shops, and become part of the neighborhood's everyday rhythm.

In Pittsburgh, where every neighborhood has its own personality, walkability can have a big impact on your daily lifestyle. Choosing an apartment in a walkable location means you're not just finding a place to live—you're becoming part of a vibrant community that continues to grow with every walk.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a walkable neighborhood?

A walkable neighborhood is one where residents can easily reach restaurants, grocery stores, coffee shops, parks, shopping, and other everyday destinations on foot.

Which Pittsburgh neighborhoods are the most walkable?

Some of Pittsburgh's most walkable neighborhoods include Bakery Square, East Liberty, Shadyside, Squirrel Hill, Downtown Pittsburgh, and South Side Flats.

Why is walkability important when choosing an apartment?

Walkability can save time, reduce transportation costs, make errands more convenient, encourage an active lifestyle, and provide easier access to local businesses and entertainment.

How do I know if a neighborhood fits my lifestyle?

Consider what you do most often. If you enjoy dining out, visiting coffee shops, shopping locally, spending time in parks, or using public transportation, a walkable neighborhood can make those activities part of your everyday routine rather than an occasional outing.

The post Why Walkability Matters When Choosing a Pittsburgh Neighborhood appeared first on Bakery Living Blog.

If discovering new restaurants is one of your favorite hobbies, choosing the right neighborhood can make all the difference. Living within walking distance of great food means grabbing coffee before work, meeting friends for happy hour, picking up takeout after a long day, or trying a new restaurant every weekend—all without a long drive.

From Bakery Square to Squirrel Hill, these are some of the best Pittsburgh neighborhoods for food lovers and the Walnut Capital communities that put you close to the city's top dining destinations.

Bakery Square & East Liberty

Best for Modern Restaurants, Brunch, and Dessert

Bakery Square and East Liberty have quickly become two of Pittsburgh's hottest neighborhoods for dining. New restaurants continue to open alongside local favorites, creating a walkable destination where breakfast, lunch, dinner, dessert, and happy hour are always within reach.

Residents can easily grab coffee before work, enjoy lunch on a patio, or finish the evening with dessert after exploring the neighborhood's shops and community events.

Must-Try Restaurants:

• Alta Via Pizzeria
• Tako Torta
• Jeni's Splendid Ice Cream

Local Favorites:

• Wood-fired pizza
• Mexican street food
• Artisan ice cream

Walnut Capital Spotlight:

Living at Bakery Living places residents in the center of Bakery Square's growing restaurant scene, while Walnut on Highland offers convenient access to both Bakery Square and East Liberty's dining, shopping, and entertainment.

Squirrel Hill

Best Pittsburgh Neighborhood for Authentic International Food

When Pittsburgh locals recommend restaurants, Squirrel Hill almost always makes the list. Forbes and Murray Avenues are packed with independently owned restaurants representing cuisines from around the world, making this one of the city's most diverse food destinations.

It's the perfect neighborhood for people who love trying something new, whether that's handmade dumplings, fresh bagels, sushi, or classic Pittsburgh pizza.

Must-Try Restaurants:

• Everyday Noodles
• Mineo's Pizza House
• Pigeon Bagels

Local Favorites:

• Chinese cuisine
• Fresh bagels & bakeries
• Pizza

Walnut Capital Spotlight:

The neighborhood is also home to the popular Squirrel Hill Farmers Market every Sunday from 9 a.m.–1 p.m. on Beacon Street, making it easy to shop local throughout the growing season.

Shadyside

Best for Brunch, Patios, and Upscale Dining

Shadyside is one of Pittsburgh's most walkable neighborhoods, making it easy to spend an entire day exploring Walnut Street. Boutique shopping, neighborhood cafés, wine bars, and locally owned restaurants create one of the city's most popular dining destinations.

Whether you're meeting friends for brunch, enjoying dinner outdoors, or stopping for coffee after shopping, Shadyside offers something for every taste.

Must-Try Restaurants:

• Shady Grove
• Girasole
• Noodlehead

Local Favorites:

• Italian cuisine
• American comfort food
• Brunch cafés

Walnut Capital Spotlight:

Residents at Bellefonte, Howe & Maryland Apartments, 517 St. James Place, and 631 St. James Place can walk to many of Shadyside's most popular restaurants, cafés, and boutiques.

Downtown Pittsburgh

Best for Fine Dining, Cocktails, and Special Occasions

Downtown Pittsburgh has become one of the city's premier culinary destinations. Whether you're heading to dinner before a Steelers game, grabbing drinks after work, or celebrating a special occasion, Downtown offers everything from historic restaurants to modern concepts created by some of Pittsburgh's top chefs.

Its walkability makes exploring multiple restaurants, bars, coffee shops, and entertainment venues incredibly convenient.

Must-Try Restaurants:

• Meat & Potatoes
• Ritual House
• The Commoner

Local Favorites:

• Contemporary American cuisine
• Steakhouses
• Craft cocktails

Walnut Capital Spotlight:

The Commonwealth Building and The Washington at Chatham place residents within walking distance of Market Square, the Cultural District, and many of Downtown Pittsburgh's most popular restaurants.

South Side Flats

Best for Casual Dining, Breweries, and Weekend Food Adventures

South Side Flats combines Pittsburgh favorites with newer restaurants, breweries, and lively patios along East Carson Street. Whether you're grabbing brunch before walking the riverfront trail or enjoying dinner before a concert, there's always somewhere new to try.

The neighborhood's mix of longtime local institutions and newer restaurants makes it one of Pittsburgh's most exciting places to eat.

Must-Try Restaurants:

• Carmella's Plates & Pints
• Streets on Carson
• The Urban Tap

Local Favorites:

• Gastropubs
• Mexican cuisine
• Burgers & comfort food

Walnut Capital Spotlight:

Hot Metal Flats and Jones Tower offer residents easy access to South Side's restaurant scene while providing convenient connections to Downtown Pittsburgh, Oakland, and the riverfront trails.

Why Food Lovers Choose Walkable Pittsburgh Neighborhoods

The best foodie neighborhoods offer more than just great restaurants—they create a lifestyle centered around convenience, community, and discovering new local favorites. Living within walking distance of cafés, bakeries, farmers markets, breweries, and restaurants means less time driving and more time enjoying everything your neighborhood has to offer.

Whether you're craving handmade dumplings in Squirrel Hill, wood-fired pizza in Bakery Square, brunch in Shadyside, steaks Downtown, or burgers in South Side, Pittsburgh has a neighborhood that fits your taste.

At Walnut Capital, our apartment communities are located in many of Pittsburgh's most walkable neighborhoods, making it easy to experience the city's thriving culinary scene while enjoying a convenient place to call home.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best neighborhood in Pittsburgh for food lovers?

Squirrel Hill is known for its international cuisine, while Bakery Square, Shadyside, Downtown, and South Side all offer outstanding restaurant scenes with unique local favorites.

Which Pittsburgh neighborhoods have the most walkable restaurants?

Bakery Square, Shadyside, Downtown Pittsburgh, Squirrel Hill, and South Side all offer highly walkable dining districts where residents can easily reach restaurants, cafes, and coffee shops on foot.

Where should I live in Pittsburgh if I love trying new restaurants?

Neighborhoods like Bakery Square, East Liberty, Shadyside, Squirrel Hill, Downtown, and South Side offer diverse dining options and are home to several Walnut Capital apartment communities.

Which Walnut Capital communities are closest to Pittsburgh's best restaurants?

Bakery Living, Walnut on Highland, Walnut on the Park, Walnut Towers at Frick Park, The Commonwealth Building, The Washington at Chatham, Hot Metal Flats, and several Shadyside communities all provide convenient access to some of Pittsburgh's most popular restaurants.

Is Pittsburgh a good city for foodies?

Absolutely. Pittsburgh has earned national recognition for its growing culinary scene, offering everything from award-winning chefs and international cuisine to neighborhood bakeries, local coffee shops, breweries, and iconic Pittsburgh restaurants.

The post The Best Pittsburgh Neighborhoods for Foodies: Where to Live Near Pittsburgh’s Best Restaurants appeared first on Bakery Living Blog.