Brooklyn’s neighbourhoods are home to a thriving independent shop scene. On sunny days I love hopping on a ferry to Greenpoint, a great way to travel and the perfect chance to take in the stunning Manhattan skyline views. Once in Greenpoint, there are so many great cafes and independent shops to choose from, these are some of my favourites. (Most are on Franklin Street unless otherwise noted.)
Bakeri – First stop is Bakeri on Freeman Street for homemade pastries and great coffee. Both the interior and exterior are wonderful, from the tall decorative wooden doors to the over-scale botanical wallpaper by Nathalie Lete.
IG: @bakeribrooklyn
Duke’s Liquor Box – Duke’s Liquor Box is filled with hard to find whisky, bourbon, gin, vodka and other spirits from small craft & independent makers. I love the vintage details, unique displays, and the lovely red door with gold lettering.
Home of The Brave – Interiors and homewares store Home Of The Brave specialises in fair trade and American-made goods. Visit sister store Wolves Within, a men’s and women’s concept shop, a block away.
Maman – This charming café has tables suspended by ropes from the ceiling. Maman uses locally sourced ingredients and offers twists on French classics. They are famous for their lavender hot chocolate.
IG: @mamannyc
Adaptations and Porter James are sister vintage home stores both with Californian influences but completely different vibes. Porter James is predominantly jewel tones, leather and rich dark vintage rugs. Across the street bohemian Adaptations is more millennial pink and cream, wicker and feminine styles.
IG: @porterjamesny / @adaptationsny
Alter – Visit Alter for their wide range of men’s and women’s clothing and accessories as well as their own brand. Check out the original architectural details like the tin ceiling and tiled floor.
IG: alterbrooklyn
Littleneck Outpost – Littleneck Outpost serves coffee and New England classics like lobster rolls and clam chowder. They sell pantry items, vintage goods and antique linen textiles by Patriae.
Homecoming – Coffee shop, flower shop and lifestyle products, Homecoming has something for everyone. Lovely place to sit with a coffee and smell the flowers.
IG: @homecoming
Feng Sway – Nestled amongst the warehouses on Dobbin Street is Feng Sway, an Aladdin’s Cave of fine vintage and exotic plants.
Bellocq – Before heading home I always love a visit to Bellocq tea atelier. Enter through the red brick storefront into an enchantingly beautiful store selling single-estate teas. A faded aubergine wall is lined with over-sized yellow tea canisters. Drink some tea in the adjacent salon, and enjoy this Instagram beauty.
IG: @bellocq
What a dreamy round up of shops and cafes! See more wonderful boutiques and eateries from around the world over on The Shopkeepers.
