The latest outpost of Commonplace Coffee sits in the heart of Shadyside; in fact, it’s right on Walnut Street, just blocks from the neighborhood’s thriving commercial district. Those blocks, however, make all the difference: As you sit at one of the patio tables in front of this coffee shop, things slow down. Cars passing by are the exception rather than the rule; neighbors stroll by, offering friendly nods. It’s a central and accessible location that still manages to feel like an escape — a perfect spot, in other words, for a coffee shop.
It’s no wonder, then, that the location already was a coffee shop.
Meet Shadyside’s New Neighbor, Commonplace Coffee
The ninth retail shop from Commonplace Coffee takes over the space formerly occupied by Georgie’s Corner Cafe, a neighborhood spot that opened in 2022. When founders George and Beth Saxon wanted to move away from the business, they contacted Commonplace Coffee, who had consulted on the opening of their cafe.
“We helped with some of the equipment, layout, bar design — things like that,” explains Commonplace Coffee founder TJ Fairchild. “We remained friendly through the process … Our goal was to continue the legacy of what [George and Beth] had done — creating those relationships, getting to know the dogs walking by and the kids walking by.”
The company’s familiarity with Georgie’s Corner Cafe made the transition smooth, Fairchild says, and didn’t involve major changes. “Everything was successful and working well. We just wanted to put some of Commonplace’s flair on the space.”
What to Try at Commonplace Coffee
That flair exists in the form of a new paint job and some subtle decorative touches. Along with flair, though, is flavor, particularly that of Commonplace Coffee’s smooth drinks and tempting baked goods. Treats such as cookies (try the s’mores variety) and coffee cake are made in-house — literally. A significant portion of the company’s baking and commercial-kitchen operations, once housed entirely in Indiana, PA, have relocated to the Shadyside shop.
“What’s important to us is hospitality and service — and delicious coffee. And there may be no lack of that in certain neighborhoods, but we put our own spin on it,” Fairchild says.
Commonplace Coffee will host an official grand-opening party this Saturday, August 1, from 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Expect one-time-only specials, free samples, kids’ activities and more — including a bunch of free swag for the first 50 customers through the door.
Sitting at one of the tables that lines the wall (or at the peaceful patio tables outside), it’s easy to see how impactful that ethos is — the place is consistently busy, but the clientele looks happy. There are scattered laptops and notebooks, but most of the guests seem to be simply enjoying life; you can imagine making a morning ritual out of strolling over here and easing into the day.
Speaking of morning rituals, Fairchild has one to recommend. When asked about the shop’s best fare, he says, “If I could have my way in the world, I would start my day every day with one of our breakfast burritos. Traditional, easy, great. But if you’re looking for that sweet treat, our chocolate-chip cookies are mind-blowing. [And] our coffee cake is great.”
Why not both — stay for breakfast and lunch? It’s a good place to linger.
Story and Photography by Sean Collier