Bellevue Forward’s Spotlight Series proudly begins by celebrating Katrina Bracken, a lifelong Bellevue resident and the heart of Bellevue Beans Coffee Purveyors. Katrina’s dedication to her craft has earned her recognition as the #3 best barista in Pittsburgh by City Paper’s “Best Of” competition. Her strong connection to the community shines through her customer interactions, with regulars like Erin Thompson praising how Katrina always remembers her order and serves it with a personal touch that’s hard to find elsewhere.
Jeremy Thieroff, vice chair of Bellevue Forward, echoes Katrina’s genuine care for her customers. He shares how she creates a welcoming atmosphere at Bellevue Beans. “Katrina makes you feel like you’re somewhere special,” he says. She truly cares about how you are, and that’s what makes Bellevue Beans feel like a home away from home.” Katrina’s warmth and authenticity have made her a standout in Bellevue, enhancing the charm of the local coffee shop.
Katrina’s boss, Frank Erdeljac, Bellevue Beans’s owner and Bellevue Forward’s secretary, couldn’t be prouder. “Katrina is the face of Bellevue Beans, welcoming each guest as if they were coming into her own home,” Frank said. He emphasized her professionalism, friendliness, and knowledge, noting that Katrina is truly part of the fabric of Bellevue, making her recognition well deserved.
As the first honoree in Bellevue Forward’s Spotlight Series, Katrina sets the bar high for future features. A poster created by Point Park University student Rebecca Bivona will be displayed throughout Bellevue to celebrate her achievement. Katrina’s story is a testament to the strong community ties that Bellevue Forward seeks to celebrate and support through this series.
DOWNLOAD THE HIGH-RESOLUTION POSTER
