7 Small Business Gems to Support in New York City This Holiday Season
The heart of New York City beats through its vibrant streets, a melody composed by the countless small businesses that line its avenues. As the holiday season approaches, there’s no better time to celebrate and support these local gems that add character, uniqueness, and a sense of community to the city that never sleeps.
- The Corner Bookstore: Where Every Page Holds a Tale
Nestled in the historic Upper West Side, The Corner Bookstore is a literary haven that has stood the test of time.
With its creaky wooden floors and shelves stacked with literary treasures, this small independent bookstore offers a curated selection of novels, poetry collections, and children’s books. Skip the online giants and spend an afternoon exploring the nooks and crannies of The Corner Bookstore. You might just stumble upon the perfect gift for the book lover in your life.
- Murray’s Cheese: A Dairy Delight in Greenwich Village
In the heart of Greenwich Village, Murray’s Cheese has been tantalizing taste buds for nearly 80 years.
This iconic cheese shop offers an extensive selection of cheeses from around the world, expertly curated by passionate cheesemongers. This holiday season, treat your loved ones to a gourmet gift basket filled with artisanal cheeses, crackers, and accompaniments. Not only will you be indulging in delicious flavors, but you’ll also be supporting a local business that takes pride in delivering an unmatched culinary experience.
- Flower District: Blooms and Bouquets Galore
Take a stroll through the vibrant Flower District, a haven for floral enthusiasts located in the Chelsea neighborhood.
This collection of small flower shops offers a kaleidoscope of colors and scents, with blooms sourced locally and globally. Instead of opting for generic bouquets from a chain store, visit one of these local florists to create a personalized arrangement that captures the spirit of the season. Not only will you be spreading joy through the beauty of flowers, but you’ll also be contributing to the livelihoods of the hardworking individuals who bring these botanical wonders to the city.
- Brooklyn Flea Market: Vintage Finds and Handcrafted Treasures
For a unique shopping experience, head to the Brooklyn Flea Market, a haven for vintage aficionados and lovers of handcrafted goods.
This eclectic market features a diverse array of vendors, each offering their own distinct creations. From handmade jewelry to vintage clothing, there’s something for everyone. By choosing to shop at the Brooklyn Flea Market, you’re not only supporting the individual vendors but also contributing to the spirit of creativity and entrepreneurship that defines New York City.
- Levain Bakery: Indulge in Iconic Cookies on the Upper West Side
No discussion of small businesses in New York City would be complete without mentioning Levain Bakery.
Nestled on the Upper West Side, this bakery has gained legendary status for its enormous, gooey, and utterly irresistible cookies. Treat yourself and your loved ones to a box of Levain’s iconic chocolate chip walnut cookies this holiday season. By supporting this small bakery, you’re not just satisfying your sweet tooth – you’re also sustaining a business that has perfected the art of crafting the ultimate cookie experience.
- Vinyl Me, Please: Reviving the Joy of Vinyl in Williamsburg
In the digital age, Vinyl Me, Please is a breath of fresh air for music enthusiasts who appreciate the nostalgia of vinyl records.
Located in Williamsburg, this small record store boasts a carefully curated collection of vinyl records spanning genres and eras. This holiday season, consider gifting a loved one a vinyl record from their favorite artist or exploring new musical territories together. By choosing Vinyl Me, Please, you’re supporting a business that champions the enduring charm of analog music in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.
- La Colombe Coffee Roasters: Brews with a Purpose
Skip the ubiquitous chain coffee shops and opt for a more meaningful caffeine fix at La Colombe Coffee Roasters.
With locations across the city, including SoHo and Tribeca, this coffee roastery takes pride in ethically sourcing and roasting high-quality beans. Treat yourself or a coffee-loving friend to a bag of La Colombe’s freshly roasted beans, ensuring a flavorful cup while supporting a business committed to sustainability and social responsibility.
This holiday season, let’s make a conscious effort to support the heartbeat of New York City – its small businesses. Whether you’re shopping for gifts, indulging in culinary delights, or exploring the city’s cultural offerings, remember that every purchase from a local business contributes to the vibrancy and resilience of the community. Celebrate the spirit of the season by embracing the unique offerings of these small businesses, and in doing so, you’ll be helping to write the next chapter in the story of New York City’s entrepreneurial spirit.