Big Dog is certainly one of the cozier coffee shops in the 'burgh. The soothing colors and comfy chairs offer a welcome retreat from the slate grey Pittsburgh environment in the winter months. In the summer, the sunlight pouring in through the windows entices you to sit and enjoy an iced coffee before meandering along. It's kind of nice that this shop is tucked away from the hub-bub of Carson Street and the rest of Sah-side wackiness. It's got a peaceful, less hurried, almost European feel.
I've sampled the coffee and various baked goods here. The coffee is smooth, but not overly robust. The baked goods, without fail, have been good. I've been meaning to get around to the oatmeal bar that folks have been raving about. The baristas have never been snippy or sullen. Pittsburgh could definitely use a few more coffee shops cut from this cloth.