Red Hawk Coffee: Oakland’s First Legit Coffee Shop

As a Pitt alum, I was pretty stoked to hear that this mobile coffee truck turned coffee shop had laid roots in Oakland. When I was a student, it seemed like campus coffee options were Starbucks, Starbucks, Starbucks… and more Starbucks. At the time I didn’t seem to mind it, but as I’ve gotten older I’m all for a good locally-owned coffee shop... #TeamNoChains! (Except Dunkin Donuts, DD is my guilty pleasure and I have no shame.) 

Red Hawk Coffee is conveniently located right next to Peace, Love, and Little Donuts right off of Meyran Ave. I can’t imagine a more perfect set of neighbors. Good coffee + unique donuts = the ultimate combo. ​
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This cozy little shop has some retro feels and a pretty legit coffee and espresso menu. Hit up a normal cup of joe or go all out with an oat milk matcha latte. The possibilities are endless. Okay, maybe not endless but you’ve definitely got options. If you’re feeling something less-caffeinated, they have a nice little stock of things like kombucha, tea, and juice as well. 

This gem would be a nice spot to post up and hang, but it’s probably going to be tough to lock down a table. The space is small, there’s only a handful of tables available, and Pitt students do not mess around when it comes to study spots. I would recommend getting there early if you’re in the race for some table space. 

While this maybe isn’t your best study/grind spot, it is ideal for a quick coffee date. The 2-seater tables, stools, and window bench seating make for a great “let’s catch up over coffee” situation.