The Pittsburgh Business Times, citing real estate records, reported that Pitt recently closed on buying 251-253 Atwood St. — where the Spice Island Tea Room was until 2023.

The University paid nearly $1.37 million for the commercial property, which currently operates as Smile Thai & Sushi.

A university of spokesman told the Business Times that "the University is always looking for opportunities near campus that support our long-term mission and give us flexibility to meet future academic needs and to contribute to the vibrancy of Oakland. This purchase helps ensure we can continue to grow in a thoughtful and strategic way."

Walnut Capital seeks exemption

Representatives of Walnut Capital appeared before the city’s zoning board on Feb. 5 to request an exemption from the city’s inclusionary zoning law, which requires all buildings with more than 20 apartments to mark down rents on some units, the Post-Gazette reported.

Walnut does not believe that the policy should apply to The Caroline, a new 11-story apartment complex the developer is building as student housing on McKee Place in Oakland.