Alphabet City

Welcome to City of Asylum @ Alphabet City — a home for writers, readers, and neighbors — that includes spaces for readings and performances, writing workshops and residencies, as well as a restaurant and a bookstore. Alphabet City opened Fall of 2016. The facility and its programs are intended to be a unifying agent in the community, bridging the full array of economic, cultural, and racial diversity.

Alphabet City and City of Asylum’s Mission

Watch the videos below to learn more about Alphabet City from City of Asylum co-founders, Diane Samuels and Henry Reese:

City of Asylum co-founder Diane Samuels sharing the story of why our building is called Alphabet City.

City of Asylum co-founder Henry Reese discussing the role that hospitality played in the evolution of City of Asylum.

Programs at Alphabet City

Experience global culture in the heart of Pittsburgh on the Alphabet City stage. Meet authors from around the world, discover new musicians, watch an international film, or read along for during children’s story hour. These are just just some examples of the free programs available in-person and online via livestream.

Explore our upcoming events

City of Asylum Bookstore

From world literature in translation, to bestsellers and children’s books, our bookstore has something for everyone. Stop by to visit in-person, or browse our selection online.

Bookstore Hours

Open Daily | 12pm – 6pm

Browse our book selection

40 North Restaurant

Enjoy dinner at our Restaurant partner 40 North. Grab a happy hour drink after work, or a beer to enjoy during a concert.

Dinner Hours

Wednesday – Thursday | 5pm – 9pm

Friday & Saturday | 5pm – 10pm

Sunday | 5pm – 9pm

Lunch Hours

Wednesday – Friday | 11am – 2pm

Brunch Hours

Sunday | 10am – 2pm

Happy Hour

Wednesday – Saturday | 4:30pm – 6:30pm

Check out the 40 North menu

Directions

Our address is 40 W. North Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15212. Click here to get directions to Alphabet City.

We are accessible by several forms of public transportation. If you prefer to drive, safe and convenient parking for Alphabet City is available at the Federal North Garage located on Federal Street, just one block from our venue.

At City of Asylum, we want our events to be welcoming and accessible to all people. In an effort to make our programs as inclusive as possible, we wish to make accommodations that allow people of all abilities to fully participate in our events. If you are in need of handicap parking or other accommodations, please contact us at accessibility@cityofasylumpittsburgh.org or 412.435.1110.