A Trip Through the Strip: Under One Roof

Mention the Strip District and one of the first businesses that come to mind is Jimmy & Nino Sunseri Company, which has been in existence for 40 years and is an integral part of the Strip experience. A trip to Sunseri’s meant being welcomed by Jimmy “the Greeter” Sunseri with his ever-present unlit cigar and hand-carved wooden cane. Although Jimmy retired in 2016, there is a new greeter, Ross Sunseri, Nino’s son and a fourth-generation Sunseri who is carrying on Jimmy’s legacy.

Jimmy and Nino have always been known for their impeccable work ethic. The brothers never believed in remaining static and, while branching out in many different directions, one thing has remained a constant. They strive to be the best at what they do. Now Nino has something new planned for this beloved area of our ’Burgh.

Best in the Strip (BITS) at 1809 Penn Avenue opened in July. According to Nino, “It will be a trip through the Strip under one roof.” BITS is currently home to eight local vendors that sell everything from fudge, pepper sauces, and handmade charcuterie boards to jewelry, artisan glass, specialty soaps, candles, and cards. There is even a blind-date book lady who will match you up with the specific genre of books that you’d enjoy reading! Prantl’s Bakery, the traditional home of Pittsburgh’s revered Burnt Almond Torte, is renting space as well. In addition to selling their tortes, plans are to bring in a prep table where they would fill homemade cannoli with sweet cream and ricotta on the spot. Don’t miss their original, chocolate, and carrot-cake Tortes in a Cup either! BITS can house up to 15 rotating vendors and also hosts Labriola Winery year-round as well as Sunseri’s Italian Specialties.

The building formerly housed retail produce markets for 75 years and Nino has owned the property since 1992. He received many offers to rent from people who wanted to move into the Strip, but was unable to find a business that was a good fit for the area. So, in true Sunseri fashion, Nino took matters into his own hands. In keeping with his vision of the Strip he decided to open a vendor market. “I want to try to keep the mystique of the Strip alive and as close as possible to what this area was originally.”

Vendors come from within a radius of 30 miles of the city, including Washington, Greensburg, and Highland Park. The focus is on family-owned businesses where vendors can have their own space 52 weeks a year. “Helping to make dreams a reality for local artists is very important to me,” says Nino. Some of the current vendors had previously rented space on the sidewalks on Penn Avenue; now they can reside in a pleasant, enclosed space where camaraderie and good vibes abound.

Sharon Davis, proprietor of Extra Impressions, a shop that sells specialty papers, unique gifts, and custom gift wrapping, thinks the location is “an excellent mix of visitors and local residents looking for something unique. And Mr. Sunseri is incredibly accommodating and committed to the neighborhood.”

Rug Phatak, general manager of Labriola Winery, loves the great location. He says, “We’re thrilled to be down here. It’s an amazing space.” Labriola’s dry red wine is a not-to-be-missed hit.

Bonnie Tesone, owner of Soap by Bonnie, can’t say enough about the Sunseris. “I love the Sunseri family. They are awesome people with integrity.” Bonnie carries a large selection of soaps as well as a popular two-ingredient soap for dogs.

Nino estimates that approximately 60 percent of visitors to the Strip are from the surrounding area and 40 percent are locals. He says, “Going to the Strip is a weekly staple for some, a monthly outing for others, and an annual family tradition for many. To be able to walk through the area and relax, sample a wide variety of foods and drinks, and enjoy our Strip District is what makes this area a destination distinct from most other cities. It’s a diamond in the rough.”

Come down for the fun, say hello to Nino, and enjoy the newest addition to Penn Avenue: Best in the Strip (BITS) is a Pittsburgh destination rich in history, culture, shopping, and dining for Yinzers and visitors alike.

Hours are Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and Sunday from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Starting on Thanksgiving, added hours are Friday 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (through January 4). Parking is easy to find on Smallman Street and there is also public outdoor parking at the corner of 21st Street and Smallman.

Anne M. Oyler enjoys visiting all the Strip’s sites—as well as historic areas and researching local history. She is the founder of the Paul Riis Legacy Preservation Volunteers, whose mission is to play an active role in the maintenance and stewardship of the structures in South Park, Allegheny County Park.