About
About Big Dog Coffee
Our story
In 2008, we moved from Dallas to Pittsburgh, searching for a place to raise our family and start a new chapter. Both classically trained musicians, we had spent years performing and making connections in the vibrant Dallas arts scene. But when the time came to focus on family, we decided to relocate to South Side, a neighborhood that felt like home from the moment we arrived.
We stumbled upon a gem of a building—originally built in 1889 by Franz Kohler as a bakery. It was in desperate need of restoration, but we saw the potential to turn it into something special. After a challenging renovation, we opened Big Dog Coffee as a true extension of our living room—a welcoming space where neighbors could gather, relax, and enjoy high-quality coffee and food.
Our philosophy
At Big Dog Coffee, we believe that great coffee brings people together. Whether you're stopping by on your way to work, meeting up with friends, or just taking a moment to enjoy a quiet cup, we aim to be a place you can count on. Our commitment to quality is reflected in everything we do, from sourcing Intelligentsia Coffee beans to partnering with local bakers for our pastries and snacks.
We love the connections we've built with our regulars and the sense of community that has grown around our shop. Our drinks menu is straightforward, focusing on classic espresso-based drinks and brewed coffee, but we keep things fresh with seasonal flavors made in-house.
Our Family
Big Dog Coffee truly is a family affair. Nikolay and our three sons—Nikolas, James, and William—are all part of the team. Working side by side, we’ve created a space that reflects who we are and what we value. Our journey hasn’t always been easy, but the support of our South Side neighbors has made it all worthwhile.
As we look to the future, our mission remains the same: to offer high-quality coffee, support local artisans, and provide a welcoming place where everyone feels at home.
Our coffee: Intelligentsia Beans
We exclusively use freshly roasted in-season Intelligentsia Beans. Intelligentsia’s goal is to make extraordinary coffee. Their coffee professionals collaborate in a shared, uncompromising environment, and have a commitment to quality.