The “It” Neighborhood in the New “It” City: Why I’ve Stayed in Brookline Three Years After College

It’s been a few years since my first apartment address, on Southcrest, served as my temporary home from my studies at Duquesne University. While I never intended to remain a resident—four years and two residences later, I have undoubtedly become a full-fledged Brooklineite. Over the past few years I have watched the community change and evolve, and although there is still much to be done, I must say that I am constantly impressed with the growth of the Boulevard and its residents. With that being said, I find that I am constantly helping others throughout the city understand why this Pittsburgh neighborhood (yes, neighborhood) is where I choose to call home. As my first article for Patch, I decided to share my top five things everyone should know about Brookline. In no particular order ...

1. The boulevard is an undiscovered hotbed for entrepreneurs.

One of the largest changes that I’ve witnessed is the slow re-birth of economic activity along the community’s main street—Brookline Boulevard. With each new shop or eatery that opens, I am reminded of the untapped potential bubbling along the [ever declining] vacant storefronts.

The Good: The boulevard has a large amount of traffic, both by automobile and foot. Unique spots—like Cannon Coffee, Vinnie’s Pretzels, and Tish’s Diner—prove that there is desire and a home for such amenities. Check out this Pop City article for even more fun info!

The Bad: Not many people seem to realize this. The spotlight has been shining on cultural, media-adorned areas like Lawrenceville and Southside, but Brookline has more available spots, affordable rent, and a market that hasn’t been exhausted of options.

2. Brookline Boulevard is home to some true culinary gems.

While Brookline may never become the famous hub of cafes and eateries, like New York City, it can very well hold its own for containing some wonderful culinary finds. Need a tip? Check out Mateo’s Pasta & Panino. The food is superb, it’s BYOB, and the environment is casual and inviting, while never arrogant.

The Good: There are many great finds along the boulevard that surprise many guests. Don’t believe me? Take a stroll on a Saturday afternoon, appetite in hand, and discover some impressive treats.

The Bad: There aren’t enough! What community could only use one coffee shop, one breakfast diner, etc? Variety is the spice of life, and Brookline could add a whole lot more!

3. There are many opportunities for residents to get involved.

As a resident, this is probably the most surprising and exciting thing Brookline has to offer. Even though I may be trumpeting the joys of my community, I assure you that my love has been preceded by many vocal and active neighbors. It wasn’t until I stumbled into a meeting that I discovered groups of creative people envisioning a future for Brookline brighter than I can describe.

The Good: There are plenty, and I mean plenty, of opportunities for residents to get involved. Check out the South Pittsburgh Development Corporation (SPDC), Brookine Community Council, and the Brookline Chamber of Commerce. Also, many churches and other organizations in Brookline have their own ways for you to be involved. Don’t see any of interest? Start your own! No community can have too many passionate people.

The Bad: Most residents don’t even know these groups exist. It wasn’t until year three that I discovered (upon my own research) that such groups were bubbling on the surface. Hopefully, the groups can find a way to better advertise their meetings and vision, and ignite a creative fire under us all!

4. Believe it or not, it’s close to … everything!

Regardless of the tunnel, this neighborhood is just as accessible to downtown as any other in the city—if not closer. Many skeptics believe that the Liberty Tunnel must be a portal to a new world or the ever-feared suburbs! But I assure you, we are just as much of a treasured city neighborhood as Shadyside, Lawrenceville, North Shore, and many others. Don’t believe me? The mayor’s office seems to think so; just check our taxes.

The Good: You can be anywhere in the city within a few minutes (barring any infamous last-minute PennDot projects). Just hop onto West Liberty, go through the mystical tunnels, and you have access to any freeway that will bypass most residential lights, stop signs, and pesky pedestrians.

The Bad: PennDot + rush hour. Need I say more?

5. “Hey, Norm!” - Brookline is a true Pittsburgh neighborhood.

What neighborhood won’t claim this? With that being said, it is just as true in Brookline. This is a community that hasn’t forgotten its roots. I have personally felt welcomed into all of the shops and eateries along the Boulevard, so much so that even CVS employees seem to know when I’m sick before I do.

It’s a community that hasn’t been inundated with a fancy, new logo or clever acronym (see LoLa), but instead has remained a place where families are raised and remain. When I have the pleasure of running into residents, I am greeted with a smile and gesture that even Norm would approve. Don’t understand the reference, my younger comrades? Take a moment and add Cheers to your Netflix instant queue.

The Good and The Bad? Self-explanatory I’d say!

I'm missing a lot of great things about Brookline in my article. What are some of your favorite things?