First Fridays at RePop: April 6

In celebration of their recent article in Best of NY Magazine 2007please join RePOP at their next First Friday event featuring the Bejewelled Beauties Collection offered by John and Ellie Mathias. John and Ellie will be showcasing their artisan jewelry, decorative arts, ephemera and gilded paintings. Be prepared for a wonderful assortment of fantastic people and belly dancing performed by none other than the fabulous artist herself: Miss Ellie.

Complimentary wine reception is 7:30 - 11pm, so pull on your favorite digs, come on down to the Navy Yard, mingle with the art and get your vintage groove on! All furniture, decoratives and collectibles in shop on First Friday are 10% off.

Show runs until the last day of April. New show goes up May 4! Join us!

The Only Decent Place to Get Flowers

I bitch and moan about the lack of a nice flower shop in the area. Greene Farm, on Greene near Fulton, is the closest I've found to acceptable flowers. The selection is small, but they always have a nice in-season collection. Last weekend, I bought two bouquets of hyacinths, but then promptly left them behind at Who's Your Doggy while buying wee wee pads. Bah!

hip kids (and moms)

got kids? know somebody who's got kids? or expecting a kid? you should check out still hip, a just-getting-off-the-ground local kids-and-maternity resale shop run by two local mothers. they're still running presale events out of marcie's house for now, so you have to go their website and fill out an invite form to get the location info. but it takes all of two seconds, and then you get to go check out all of the great merch they have. we went last week and made out with a whole summer wardrobe for $20.... sunday, march 25th 11pm-5pm stillhipbrooklyn.com

The Stroll

I came across a new vintage-ish clothing store last weekend, though they claim to have been open since Thanksgiving. I see how that's possible- this place is on that teeny stretch of S. Portland between Fulton and Hanson, and I'd have no reason to walk there.

The gold mannequins are a little creepy.

It's owned by the same people who own Habana Outpost, and I believe one of Habana's owners is the clothing designer at The Stroll. It appears he takes vintage items and remakes them. Some of the stuff was really out there, but there were a few things I would have definitely worn.

There's a really cool mural painted on the ceiling:

They offered me a free glass of wine, and they also offer carious crafting nights:

The Stroll 109 South Portland St. Ave. www.recycledrejectshop.com

Parlor Sale at 313

I'm sad to report that 313 Clinton Ave (the Halloween House) will NOT be on the house tour this year. However, owner Janna is having a Parlor Sale "almost every Sunday" until June. It's the perfect excuse to see the inside of this gorgeous mansion while you shop for: Airbrush Digest magazines, airbrush equipment, Luma dyes, portfolio cases, art books, fabric, lace, trims, glass beads, wood beads, misc beads, metal trims, belt buckles and buttons, vintage jewelry, comic books, records, clothing, vintage toys, discounted handbags and chihuahua knick-knacks.

It's really quite something.

And since it's almost Stoop Sale time, I'll gladly post info on readers' sales every Friday, as long as you send me the location, time and info by Thursday at 5pm before the wknd of the sale. Please include a description of what you'll have.

Another Store in the Press

Blue Bass Vintage received a shout out in this week's Time Out NY, though it's listed under "Recently Opened." They actually opened six months ago! Also, isn't the G to Classon closer than Clinton-Washington?

Still, props for the listing.

Congrats (again!) to RePop

NY Magazine's Best Of 2007 issue hits stands today. Flip to the Best Thrift Store listing and you'll see none other than Clinton Hill's (OK, Wallabout's) RePop. I've been a champion of the store since it first opened, and I am so proud of them for receiving the props they deserve. It's great to be in such a vibrant community.

Fulton Market?

I seem to recall this place being open when I first moved to the area, but it kinda looks closed now:

What's up with this place? Was it ever a decent grocery store? This is along that weirdly quiet stretch of Fulton near Adelphi.

Clinton Hill Valentine Plans

From the MARP blog, V-Day specials from some of our favorite places: Yes, we all know it’s a Hallmark Holiday that’s just a tad bit on the consumerist side of things, but if you’re going to spend it, feel good by spending it close to home. Valentine's Day specials are available up and down the avenue, so bring your honey out to Myrtle Avenue to enjoy a very special, local Valentine’s Day. Shop, dine, and pamper at your favorite area businesses.

SHOP

Karen’s Body Beautiful, 436 Myrtle, (718) 797-4808 Beautiful Valentine’s Day gift baskets — available in all price ranges.

Kiini Ibura Jewelry, 388 Myrtle, (718) 858-5195 10% off of all red jewelry (includes corals and garnets) 10% off of all candles

RePOP 95% Recycled, 68 Washington, (718) 260-8032 10% discounts off of all jewelry and dresses in shop for Valentine's Day.

Frosted Moon Emporium, 154 Vanderbilt, (718) 858-3161 Frosted Moon has valentine cards, valentine-themed picture frames and gift ideas for under $40 (silk purses, satin travel slippers and scented candles in keep sake glass holders).

Sarafina Art & Gift Gallery, 411 Myrtle, (718) 522-1083 10-50% off a number of selected items: -15% off Caswell-Massey aromatherapy -20% off sterling silver and amber jewelry -10-50% off contemporary art -25% off hand painted fragrance lamps and tea light holders -25% off Votive candles (Flower collection) -Also, chocolate heart-shaped lollipops in for the season

Head Over Heels, 366 Myrtle, (718) 237-8880 20% clearance on all boots, now thru Valentine’s Day.

PAMPER

Polish Bar of Brooklyn, 470 Myrtle, (718) 622-5363 Chocolate Paraffin manicure service ($20) Also, PBB is offering special V-day gift sets, starting at $30: -pampering gift set ($30) -manicure/ pedicure set ($60) -luxe manicure/pedicure gift set ($80) All sets include: gift card enclosure; PBB mint candy foot polish; PBB hand and foot repair; luxe terry cloth PBB slippers.

PBB recommends the $60 or $80 sets. Also, there will be an in-store Valentine’s Day celebration. Details here

Body By Brooklyn, 275 Park, (718) 923-9400

Enjoy LIVE JAZZ in the Lounge Wednesday, February 14th, 6:00pm to 9:00pm

February 14th – 18th: Book a Couple’s Massage for you and your special someone and save $20

B3 Signature Chocolate Massage—10% off B3 Signature Chocolate Massage $175/ 90 minutes

Melt away stress, indulge your senses and warm your soul with a decadent chocolate massage. When absorbed through the skin, the natural antioxidants of pure cocoa help to flush out impurities, reduce cellulite, improve circulation and help stimulate cell regeneration. The aromas encourage serenity and mental wellness while the cocoa will soften, tone, nourish, moisturize and protect your delicate skin.

Book a chocolate massage now through February 15th and try a complimentary chocolate martini!

DINE

Luz, 177 Vanderbilt, (718) 246-4000 Special five course menu plus one drink $55.00 per person. RSVP recommended

Mojito Cuban Cuisine, 82 Washington, (718) 797-3100 Special prix fix dinner: $35/ per person; $30/ if you mention that you received e-mail from the Myrtle Avenue Brooklyn Partnership. Choice of champagne or white sangria and including salmon croquette appetizers, and rice and beans. Sautéed chicken in white sauce topped w/a bacon mélange. Strawberry parfait. May choose selected appetizer, entrée and dessert substitutions. RSVP recommended

Chez Lola, 387 Myrtle, (718) 858-1484 Special prix fix dinner: $35/ per person Menu: harrisa fennel soup, grilled shrimp salad, endive and watercress salad; pan roasted blue snapper, wiener schnitzel, guitarra pasta, free range chicken; w/ Lola’s ‘Be My Valentine’ chocolate crème brulee are on this special lovers’ menu. RSVP recommended

Maggie Brown, 455 Myrtle, (718) 643-7001 Special prix fix dinner: $35/ per person (Special menu still in the works) RSVP recommended

FYI: Sale @ Tessan Boutique

Up to 60% off! (In case it's time to do some shopping for yourself...) Tessan Boutique 280 Dekalb Avenue Brooklyn, NY 11205 Tel: 718-230-8586 www.Tessanboutique.com

Into Bed-Stuy: collecther

A friend of mine in search of good vintage finds heard about a unique shop just over the CH border called collecther. So, we scoped it out.

Located on Franklin at Lafayette, the shop is set up like a high-end boutique. Vintage purses are displayed in an ornate curio cabinet while chill music plays on an ipod stereo. It's a chi-chi feel for an affordable price, and a real find on a formerly blighted block. Franklin might shape up to be the next cool corridor. Plus, it's great to see local residents as entrepreneurs enhancing the neighborhood.

Boutique in LaFu

Finally! The empty yet appealing space above Academy Diner has been filled! The new boutique is called Fitted by the Best.

Looks like there's a turntable up in the space, and they also offer personal shopping services. Could be cool, but where does one enter the store? Through the door next to the diner? The problem with second-floor boutiques is that they seem intimidating.

Fitted by the Best 69 Lafayette Avenue 718-858-0050 http://fittedbythebest.com/

Little House on Clinton

Little House on Clinton150 Clinton Avenue Brooklyn, NY 11205 (718) 237-7780

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Chicken and Waffles.An odd combination that's oh so right.

And oh so good.

I was first exposed to them in California at the famous Roscoe's House of Chicken' n Waffles. It was love at first bite.

So obviously I was SUPER EXCITED when Little House on Clinton advertised that they would be serving Chicken and Waffles. When they finally opened I couldn't wait to give them a try. So plans were made with my friend 1UP and, of course, Lesterhead, and off to dinner at Little House we went.

Upon entering you are very warmly and robustly greeted making you feel immediately at home and comfortable. As Little House is quite small, 3 booths and 2 small tables, we had a bit of a wait but was treated to a couple of mini waffles for our troubles. Mmmmm...

We decided to look over the menu and order our food in hopes that we'll be seated by the time the food arrives. (We were.) The menu consists mainly of breakfast type fair, some burger selections, Quesadillas (???) and, of course, Chicken and Waffles - all at pretty reasonable prices.

1UP ordered Little House Meal number 2 (4 mini waffles, 1 chicken leg and 1 chicken thigh for $7.49) while Lesterhead ordered the Little House Meal number 1 (4 mini waffles, 4 chicken wings at $6.99). I opted for 12 wings at $7.49 so that I could try serveral of the sauce choices. I chose Jerk, Buffalo and Teriyaki leaving House BBQ and Honey BBQ for next time.

(I know, I know. I didn't order any waffles. BUT I knew 1UP was gonna hook me up with some of her's so that I could write up a fair evaluation. Food Review 101: Rule 153 - you've got to know your dining companions.)

And, of course, we had to get a side order of (Freedom) Fries.

The Waffles were light, golden brown and DE-licious! A nice fluffy interior with a crisp exterior that holds up to the syrup so that it doesn't get soggy before it's time.

The chicken wings were extremely crispy, well breaded and seasoned and very flavorful plain and as is. As for the sauces the Teriyaki was good, the Buffalo was good, the Jerk was better but the best sauce was...maple syrup.

Really.

Maple syrup. Squeeze a little on...oh my. Crunchy, sweet, salty...yum!

It's honestly the best way to eat them and probably what makes Chicken and Waffles such an awesome combination.

The regular chicken pieces were just larger versions of the wings.

The only disappointment was the fries. They were just eh. I think they could've been a bit crispier and SALTED. I've gripped about this before but I hate it when they don't salt the fries while they are HOT. Ugh. Salting after the fact...the salt just never sticks to it. Who's with me on this? Another minor grip is the lack of an easily accessable bathroom.  After eating sticky waffles and greasy chicken you wanna be able to easily wash your hands and...you can't.  I hope they clear that up soon.

So, overall, an awesome addition to the nabe.  Good fair at a good price.  If you go and plan on eating there plan on waiting a bit as it's pretty small inside but as a place for delivery or pickup - AWESOME.

Chicken and Waffles.  Yum. Who would've Thunk It?

Treasures at Tessan Boutique

CH is now home to a teeny shop filled with affordable treasures- Tessan Boutique! I can't believe I just discovered this place on Friday! It's so close to my apartment, yet without the sidewalk sign one could easily breeze past as the shop is located on the garden level of a corner mansion/brownstone.

Inside, the space is tiny -- just one small room. Yet somehow shop owner Aissatou has filled it with an astounding amount of merchandise: clothing (for men and women), jewelry (necklaces, earrings, broaches, etc), children's knits, cosmetics and soaps. Best of all, several items for sale in the shop have been made by local residents (make sure to check out the basket of exquisite scarves-wow!). Take the time to scour every shelf.

Aissatou has lived in the neighborhood for eight years and named the shop for her mother's village in Senegal. I'll do an interview soon -- lots of good stories behind this place, I'm sure. In the meantime, check it out:

Tessan Boutique 280 Dekalb Avenue (Corner of Clinton Av) Brooklyn, NY 11205 www.Tessanboutique.com 718-230-8586

RePop Nominated for Best Thrift Store!

One of my faaaaaavorite blogs, Apartment Therapy, has recently nominated RePop for Best NYC Thrift Store 2006. Please support our favorite creepy doll head vendors and vote here.

Holiday Shopping + Services in the Nabe

Holiday Specials with some of our fav vendors!

Jewelry on Myrtle

A few weeks ago, I noticed this storefront on Myrtle. Now it's a jewelry shop! I took a peek in the window and was surprised to find the space shockingly small. What are they doing with the rest of the space?

Could this be a front for something?

Blue Bass Vintage Holiday Sale!

Just received this info from Blue Bass Vintage:Blue Bass Vintage Clothing is having a holiday sale. All items in the store with holiday prints and/or holiday colors are 10% off. When we decided to do this, we found that we needed a little primer on what all the holiday colors are. Here's what we came up with, and we're sticking with it (unless someone gives us a really compelling reason not too):

Christmas colors - Red & Green

Hanukkah - White, Blue Silver

Kwanzaa - Red, Green & Gold

Cool. Plus, it's good form to do some of your holiday shopping at neighborhood establishments!

Blue Bass Vintage Clothing 431 DeKalb Ave (enter on Classon) 347.750.8935 www.bluebassvintage.com

Tree Hunt

On Saturday, I began my hunt for a Christmas tree. I had hoped for a Scotch Pine, but none were to be found. Instead, I settled for a lovely short-needle tree from the lot at the church on Clinton and Lafayette:

They also have gorgeous wreaths, starting at $20:

I also spied a tree lot on Myrtle between Washington and Hall:

Their selection didn't look as robust, but it was early in the morning.

There is also a lot on Washington just north of Myrtle, but their trees were locked up early in the day behind a fence-thing, so I can't speak to the selection.

Need a GIANT tree? Try Gardel's Garden on South Portland. Last year, Bishop Laughlin HS also set up an enormous lot on Lafayette. The workers were super friendly, and even gave me a free bag of pine branches towards the end of the month. Haven't seen them set up yet this year.

All the lots I've seen so far have a wide range of tree-heights, and they've all included the mini Charley Brown size.

Do you spy a particularly good (or bad) tree lot in the nabe? Email me!

Open House @ Kiki's -- Sunday

Greetings Pet Parents!! You are invited to Kiki's Pet Spa's Fall Open House. Come get important information and tips on keeping your furry loved ones healthy and obedient, win doggy daycare and grooming freebies, get your pet hand painted on canvas, and take advantage of our great sidewalk sale!!

Meet our in-house veterinarian Dr. Pamella Dendtler who'll be available to answer any pet health questions, take pictures with your pets, and meet our expert dog trainer who'll teach tricks as well as give you tips on training your dog. Adoptable pets will be also be available.

Sale! Sale! Sale! We'll have a sidewalk sale and Dr. Dendtler will be providing discounted Bordatella shots.

Kiki's Pet Spa & Boutique

239 DeKalb Ave

Between Clermont & Vanderbilt

Brooklyn, New York 11205

November 19, 2006

12:00PM-4:00PM