B52 Adds Extra Flavor to Pittsburgh's Vegan Scene

By Leila Sleiman 

B52 Cafe hosted an incredible soft opening this weekend, adding to the anticipation of the Lawrenceville locale's grand opening January 12.

Owner Omar Abuhejleh and his amazing team, including Glenn Hoover and Kevin McCann, have created a mecca of Middle Eastern cuisine, healthy comfort food, and vegan dining at its best. The cafe even boasts a full espresso bar and pastries! 

We had the pleasure of sampling the Seitan Shawarma — house-made seitan shredded in a lavash pita and garnished with onion, pickled turnips, lettuce, and tahini dressing with a side of fries; a bean fritter entree with saffron rice and house salad; and lentil soup with carrots and fresh parsley.

It was hard to know what was the star of the show: the food or the house-made chocolate truffles, in flavors like peanut butter, cardamom, cayenne, cherry, and praline dark chocolate.

Stop by for breakfast or lunch from 7 a.m.-3 p.m.

B52 Cafe, 5202 Butler St., Lawrenceville. b52pgh.com.