Shop Local; Small Business Saturday
November 25th is Small Business Saturday to supporting shopping local small shops. We recently hosted an architectural walking tour of Bleecker Street to draw attention to the array of shops on that classic strip and are attending the small business forum tomorrow being convened by Senator Holyman. Today we are doing a round up of some of our Business of the Month awardees to let you know about these amazing gems in our neighborhoods. Check them out, support your neighborhood small business, and nominate your favorite by clicking here. You will be entered to win a book from our collection if you nominate before November 30.
Li-Lac Chocolates, 162 Bleecker Street and 40 8th Avenue (at Jane Street)
The holiday season is a time for family, treats, and lots of sweets, and what better way to immerse yourself in the holiday spirit than with one of Greenwich Village’s own chocolate houses. Li-Lac Chocolates, one of Manhattan’s oldest chocolate houses, has been a Greenwich Village staple for over 90 years. Founded in 1923, the first Li-Lac was started by a Greek immigrant named George Demetrious at 120 Christopher Street. Mr. Demetrious had previously learned the art of chocolate making in France, and used his expertise and innovation to develop a loyal following within the Village.
Myers of Keswick, 634 Hudson Street
If you are a British expat, a visitor from the U.K. missing the foods of home, or even an anglophile looking for your favorite dish from across the pond, then you no doubt already know about this unique place. A family-run store celebrating over 32 years, everyone is welcome at Myers of Keswick (pronounced kes-ick — the ‘w’ is silent — and founded by Peter Myers of Keswick, England, where his family ran a butcher shop).
Integral Yoga Institute, 227 West 13th Street
Where can you get everything you need for body, mind and soul, all on one city block? Integral Yoga Institute celebrated over 50 years in our community, with their Integral Yoga Natural Foods Store, Apothecary, workshops and classes, and more.
Exit9 Gift Emporium, 51 Avenue A
Where can you get a last minute gift for anyone of any age? Buy a pizza tattoo, locally made silver jewelry, books on neighborhood history, socks that give back, a banana protector, stylish bags or hats, or a Trump coloring book?
Caffe Vivaldi, 32 Jones Street
Where can you still experience the Greenwich Village music scene in a setting as creative and innovative as the sounds you hear and the sights just outside its doors? And get an Irish coffee, Italian dinner, Espresso Martini, or virgin bloody mary from a curved bar while you do?
Whether you live near Avenue C between 4th and 5th Streets, or have to make the voyage from afar, there is arguably only one place in New York to get the best traditional Puerto Rican cuisine and ambiance: Casa Adela. The Loisaida institution calls itself “The Restaurant of Authentic Puerto Rican Cuisine since 1976,” and no one questions the assertion. At 80 years young, namesake owner Adela Ferguson herself is there on a daily basis, from early morning til closing time. Many of those who nominated Adela’s restaurant noted that she is like your abuela or grandmother, creating an unmistakably homey atmosphere.
The Hat Shop, 120 Thompson Street
Strolling the neighborhood of our newest historic district, there is a special section along Thompson Street between Prince and Spring Streets of quaint locally owned small shops. That is where you will find The Hat Shop, opened over 21 years ago.
Dashwood Books, 33 Bond Street
Books, books, and more books, all dedicated to photography, along with posters and postcards and zines on the walls and counters can be found at this unique shop with the feel of a library crossed with a record shop crossed with a gallery. In a city that has it all, there is only one independent bookstore dedicated solely to the art of photography.
You can read about all of them by visiting here. Tell us which independent store you love in Greenwich Village, the East Village or NoHo: just nominate one here. Want to help support small businesses? Share this post with friends and see a map of all the businesses we have honored, nominated by you!