By Anna Yoder | Columnist

An abacus, a book entitled “The Drunken Botanist” and a magenta-colored vintage velveteen couch are a few of the items that adorn the inviting sitting area of Scratch & Co., a multi-faceted, unique establishment owned by Don Mahaney. Scratch sits at the crest of Troy Hill and promotes itself as an “all day café and pub” that prides itself on sourcing local, being “accessible to all people” and offers something for everybody. As a resident, Don is “keenly aware of the stability” of Troy Hill and is passionate about being part of its “evolution” yet, does “not want people to have to pay a [high] price for his success” as has occurred in certain other areas of Pittsburgh.

When it opened in 2020 just prior to the pandemic, Scratch (as with most businesses during that time) had to pivot away from in-person dining. Instead, Scratch established a “pay what you can market place” for residents. For three months, Don helped those in the community with food insecurity by offering items from his vendors that would otherwise go unused. This is one way Don continues to be a good neighbor and part of the “evolution of Troy Hill.” Don’s community involvement is one of the faces of Scratch.

Whether you are seeking a bright and cheery way to start your day, an afternoon lunch with friends or a dinner date in the evening, Scratch can be what Don describes as “most things to most people.” Yet, how many options can there possibly be? Let me count the ways:

Check out the October issue of The Northside Chronicle for the full story.