Sushi I has a fresh new look—and a bold new concept. After closing for a month to renovate and rebrand, the space has emerged as Okane Sushi Taco Bar & Omakase, offering downtown diners a sleek, high-end bar atmosphere perfect for both drinks and dinner.

Another downtown coffee spot just dropped, and this one gets it.

Ruckus Café recently opened on Liberty Avenue with a clear goal in mind: serving breakfast and lunch that fits the pace of a downtown workday. Designed as a daytime-only café, the Downtown location brings the popular Shaler original’s made-to-order approach to an office-heavy neighborhood where quick, quality options are always in demand.

Over the past two years, two of the Downtown Neighbors Alliance (DNA) two of the DNA's projects have been a crucial factor in revitalizing Downtown Pittsburgh’s retail landscape. In 2023 and 2024 alone, DNA's Retail Recruitment program assisted in opening 30 retail establishments, and our efforts continued into 2025 as 19 more businesses opened.

2025 was a standout year for Point Park University. From record-breaking fall enrollment to growing pre-college summer programs, the university continued to strengthen its place as one of the most dynamic urban campuses in the country. A new economic impact study confirmed what many already know: Point Park plays a vital role in Downtown Pittsburgh and the region’s economy.

Last Week, three new small businesses officially opened their doors Downtown, marking another milestone in the steady momentum we’ve seen. As part of a walking ribbon-cutting tour hosted in partnership with community and economic development leaders, Downtown Neighbors Alliance (DNA) was proud to join in welcoming these new neighbors and celebrating the collective effort that makes openings like these possible.

Committed to creating a distinct urban ambiance in the heart of our city, the Downtown Neighbors Alliance (DNA) has successfully recruited and opened 39 retail businesses across downtown over the past two years, with only more to come in 2025.

Over the past two years, the Downtown Neighbors Alliance (DNA) has played a crucial role in revitalizing Downtown Pittsburgh’s retail landscape. In 2023 and 2024 alone, DNA assisted in opening 39 retail establishments, and our efforts continue into 2025. Through persistent outreach: making phone calls, recruiting new businesses, and collaborating with commercial realtors, we have been able to drive meaningful change. The Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership has recognized our impact and has now agreed to commit $50,000 per year for a minimum of five years to support our retail recruitment efforts, with the potential for renewal.

In 2023 and 2024, a total of 73 retail businesses were engaged by the Downtown Neighbors Alliance, comprising various categories. The outcomes of these engagements include 37 businesses opened and 4 businesses closed.

The Downtown Neighbors Alliance (DNA) is excited to announce new opportunities for businesses looking to become a part of Pittsburgh’s vibrant downtown community. With a focus on enhancing the neighborhood through strategic retail recruitment, DNA is inviting new businesses to contribute to the energy and appeal of Downtown Pittsburgh.