The Story
La Prima Espresso Company has been roasting coffee in Pittsburgh's Strip District since 1988, making it one of the oldest specialty coffee roasters in the city. Founded by Sam Patti, the company started as a small espresso bar serving the wholesale vendors and early-morning shoppers who have long defined the Strip District's character.
What Makes It Pittsburgh
The original location on 21st Street remains a pilgrimage site for coffee lovers. The tiny counter serves perfect espresso, cappuccino, and a rotating selection of pastries. La Prima's beans are roasted in-house and supplied to hundreds of restaurants, offices, and retailers across the Pittsburgh region.
La Prima is a Strip District institution. It predates the neighborhood's transformation into a dining destination and has remained a constant through decades of change. For many Pittsburghers, a visit to the Strip District is not complete without a stop at La Prima for a shot of espresso at the counter.