If you’re looking for a warm and inviting spot to grab a great cup of coffee and a delicious pastry in Pittsburgh, Mediterra Cafe is an excellent choice. During my recent visit to their Sewickley location, I was immediately drawn in by the lively atmosphere and the sight of fresh-baked goods filling the display cases. Mediterra Cafe has expanded to Mt. Lebanon, Lawrenceville, and recently Cranberry, but my experience at their original Sewickley location left a lasting impression.
First Impressions
Walking into Mediterra Cafe, I was greeted by a bustling yet cozy ambiance. The place was full of people enjoying their meals, chatting, and working on laptops, creating a vibrant yet relaxing environment. The aesthetic struck a perfect balance between a European cafe vibe and the comfort of a neighborhood gathering spot.
I loved seeing the fresh baked goods everywhere—beautiful loaves of bread, delicate pastries, and savory items all displayed behind the counter. The staff was friendly and efficient, and I could tell that quality ingredients were at the core of everything they offered.
Espresso & Sweet Pairing
As an espresso enthusiast, I naturally gravitated towards their cappuccino, which arrived in a nice ceramic mug. The texture was velvety smooth, and the balance between espresso and milk was spot on—rich but not overpowering.
One thing that immediately caught my eye was their coffee setup. Mediterra Cafe uses a commercial La Marzocco espresso machine, a top-tier choice favored by specialty coffee shops for its precision, consistency, and ability to extract rich, balanced espresso shots., a solid choice for a cafe serious about their coffee quality. I also noticed their grinder looked similar to the Sette 270 I use at home—though it might have been a different model. Either way, it showed that they’re committed to precision and freshness in their coffee preparation.
To accompany my cappuccino, I ordered a flourless chocolate cake, and I couldn’t have asked for a better pairing. The cake was decadently rich, smooth, and slightly fudgy, providing the perfect contrast to the bold espresso flavors of my cappuccino. Each bite melted in my mouth, and I found myself savoring every bit.
My wife opted for a raspberry almond good, which looked just as incredible as my cake.
Mediterra Cafe’s Offerings & Locations
Beyond just coffee and pastries, Mediterra Cafe is known for its breakfast and lunch menu, featuring fresh ingredients and thoughtfully crafted dishes. They also carry an impressive selection of cheeses, charcuterie, and artisan grocery items, making it a great place to pick up specialty ingredients.
One standout from their menu is the Avocado Toast. A fresh and refreshing combination of cucumber, tomato, radish, herbs, and seeds on red fife bread. It’s a must-try if you’re looking for a light yet flavorful bite. I think the cucumber adds a lot to this toast.
If you’re in Pittsburgh, you can visit their other locations in Mt. Lebanon, Lawrenceville, Sewickley, and Cranberry.
For those wondering, you can check out their Mediterra Cafe menu to explore their full selection.
Final Thoughts
Mediterra Cafe in Sewickley left me thoroughly impressed. From the warm and lively atmosphere to the top-notch coffee and incredible pastries, it’s a spot I’d happily return to. Whether you’re stopping by for a quick espresso, a hearty breakfast, or a leisurely brunch, Mediterra Cafe delivers a European-inspired experience right here in Pittsburgh.
If you’re in the area, I highly recommend stopping by. And if you do, don’t skip the flourless chocolate cake—it’s a game-changer!