The wait is over!  Needle & Bean, 320 Castle Shannon Boulevard, officially opened Monday, August 21.

We first told you about the vinyl record store and coffee shop last August.

Owner Mike Butala, Sunset Hills, is a coffee drinker who’s been collecting vinyl records for 15 years. To him, there’s nothing like a good cup of coffee and a vinyl album on the turntable. “I’m passionate about records and coffee and I’m glad that the community also has the same interest in music and drinks, so that’s reassuring,” he said.

Brian Magee, Rocklynn Place, has been following the store’s progress intently; slowing down and peeking in every time he drove by. He was happy to stumble upon the soft opening Friday. “Coffee and records. Those are my two weaknesses,” he said.

Needle & Bean carries a mix of new and used vinyl featuring mostly alternative, classic rock, jazz and punk. In addition to stocking what’s popular, Butala is also looking to showcase independent artists and smaller bands. Espressos, Americanos, lattes, drip coffee and tea are on the menu at the coffee bar.

“It’s very exciting, especially since I’ve been involved since it was just an idea. It’s been very exciting to see all the work that he’s put in come to fruition.” said Butala’s wife, Irene, who plans to eventually help out at the store.

Needle & Bean is open Friday through Monday (closed Thursdays) from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Coffee bar!

You can get coffee or tea at Needle & Bean.

Hang out!

There's plenty of places to sit at Needle & Bean

Records

There's lots of records

T-shirts

Drink your coffee in style.