Brooklyn

Revving up for 2012 Plus Market Picks For A Cold Wet Weekend!!

Pantera Azul - Not Your Average Mouse Pad

Hi Everyone!

It was an incredible holiday season at the markets! There were almost 50 market events throughout the city, and they were all filled with festive shoppers. I took a little hiatus to rest a bit, catch up on business, and write a couple of book proposals (more on that coming soon). The photo is my co-author Pantera Azul. Not your usual mouse pad, but much warmer and fuzzier.

I want to thank every single person who bought their holiday gifts in the markets. You have supported local artisan entrepreneurs and helped make sure that the creative community that is so important to the culture of New York City can continue to thrive for another year. And I’d be prepared to wager that your gifts were the best ones under the tree this year! Mine always are.

And I want to thank all the markets and market sellers who make my weekends so incredibly fun and inspiring! I’ve been visiting markets almost every weekend for the last three years, and I still find things that blow me away all the time. I can’t wait to see what 2012 has in store for this blogger!

This weekend there are several great market events going on:

Indoors:

Antiques Garage (Saturday & Sunday)
Artists & Fleas (Saturday & Sunday)
Brooklyn Flea (Saturday & Sunday)
The Market NYC (Saturday & Sunday)
Smorgasbrewery (Sunday only )
SUPER!market (Saturday only)

Outdoors (watch the weather and check the sites for updates):

Hell’s Kitchen Flea (Saturday & Sunday)
West 25th Street Market (Saturday & Sunday)

And of course, your year-round food markets:

Even though the weather looks bad this weekend, there are plenty of wonderful things to do in the Markets of New York City!

2011 New York Holiday Markets Guide (Updated 12/22)

NEWSFLASH! Now you’re really down to the wire! Buy all your last minute gifts in the Markets of New York City! You’ll be glad you did!

Check out Markets of New York City on NY1: Navigating the Holiday Markets! (List of the designers and markets mentioned.)

I am very excited to publish the 2011 New York Holiday Markets Guide!

The guide links to over 40 events throughout the boroughs, and we will be adding more as they are announced. Again this year, there are both traditional holiday markets that span the entire season and special one or two day events. From jewelry to perfume and soap, objets d’art to clothing and everything in between, New Yorkers and visitors to our fair city can find wonderful gifts for everyone on your list in the markets of New York City! I look forward to seeing you in the markets, and I will be posting as many of our finds as we can during the season.

Send me your event to add to the Markets Guide!! And remember:

Finally Sank My Teeth Into Danny Macaroons!

I’d heard the buzz about Danny Macaroons (not to be confused with French macarons). “They’re amazing, they’re delicious, they’re funny, and famous people apparently really love them.” But somehow, in my wanders through the city’s glorious food markets, I had never crossed paths with their coconutty goodness.

Until the New York Magazine Grub Street Food Festival.

I spotted Danny Macaroons on the event map and made a mental note. Finally, in mid-afternoon, the feeding frenzy cooled down a bit, and I made my way over to see them. Of course, these little sweet mounds of happiness totally lived up to their reputation.

First of all, they are beautiful and festive. I mean, look at that plate! You just have to smile. And then there is their logo, which is actually a smiling macaroon. And then there are the flavors, which on Sunday included Salted Caramel, Dark Chocolate, Rice Pudding, Roasted Almond, Pumpkin Spice, Oirish McRoons (the green ones), Chocolate Dipped, Red Velvet, and Chocolate Banana Hazelnut.

I was bursting at the seams from all the different amazing foods I’d already had, and so I asked Danny himself to pick the one that would be my very first Danny Macaroon. He picked the Salted Caramel. I bit into it, and it was lush, rich mouthful of the delicate sweetness of the coconut with the crunch of the salted caramel drizzles. I’ve had some dry, tasteless macaroons in my life. These were neither. They were moist, delicious and clearly full of fun. Next time I’m trying the Red Velvet!

Go try Danny Macaroons for yourself as soon as possible at Smorgasburg. They are also in stores throughout Brooklyn and Manhattan, including the Big Gay Ice Cream Shop! Did I mention they’re gluten free?

Photo of the Day, October 12, 2011: kudu-lah Critters

kudu-hah Critters Plumb, Boo, Quadropus, Skitch, 3 Eye'd Guy, and Squibby, at Dekalb Market

I remember seeing kudu-lah Critters in Union Square several years back when artist Kenneth Kudulis, Jr. first set out to sell his artwork on the city streets.

What I didn’t realize then is that they are a fixed set of characters, or a community of critters, that Kenneth sends into iconic and familiar locations and situations in New York City, like subway stations and parks, and beyond (like the upstate farm in this photo).

kudu-lah currently features 16 critters, although some seem to be – gasp! – leaving forever. Yes, three of the critters are being retired to the kudu-lah vault, and three new members of the community will set out on their own adventures. Each critter has an story and a personality, and many of them are based on people Kenneth sees and knows in New York City. So if any of them seem particularly familiar to you, they probably should.

Kenneth and his wife Jennifer now run the kudu-lah shop, open 11AM – 5PM daily, except Tuesdays and Wednesdays, in Downtown Brooklyn’s Dekalb Market. Their shop is in one of the now-famous recycled shipping containers, which they made to look like an old-time train car, only with a big bear-like critter over the entrance (that would be Gnaw). You can find kudu-lah artwork here at incredibly reasonable prices, and you can also commission your very own piece featuring your favorite critters in your favorite locations.

kudu-lah artwork makes great gifts for the people on your list, from art lovers, to kids, to anyone with an ounce of whimsy.

Where to find kudu-lah:

Fall Crafts in Chelsea this Saturday,

hMag Music Fest in Hoboken on Sunday
Union Square Holiday Market November 18-December 24th!

Photo of the Day – September 14, 2011: Caramel Chai Sauce from Herbin’ Spoonful

I am always thrilled to find new and wonderful things to eat in the markets. Walking through the Hester Street Fair recently, I came across Herbin’ Spoonful Caramel Sauce. And boy am I glad I stopped for a taste (as if not stopping was even an option).

This Brooklyn-based company currently sells three kinds of caramel sauce: Lavender, Chai, and Habanero. I love how they span the spectrum from gentle lavender, to the stronger spices in chai, and onto the pow of hot pepper. Each one is distinct, gooey, and delicious.

Last weekend at our Sunday Family Dinner, we made David Lebovitz’ vanilla ice cream with a vanilla pod we got at the beautiful Sullivan Street Tea and Spice Company. We drizzled the chai caramel sauce over the top of the each scoop. Our guests actually purred. And there were no leftovers.

These caramel sauces are made with high quality organic ingredients. You can even pair them with savory dishes as glazes. But really all you need is a spoon.

Come try Herbin’ Spoonful’s caramel sauces weekends at the Hester Street Fair. Check the website for exact dates

The Markets Take Fashion’s Night Out

I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again: the markets of New York city are the heart of innovation in design, food, decor, and many other trends that we’ll see a couple of years from now in mainstream catalogs. And this Thursday, September 8th, 2011, the markets are taking part in Fashion’s Night Out in a fun, fabulous, winning way :

Manhattan

Hester Street Fair Takes Over Henri Bendel on 5th Avenue: 50 of Hester Street’s fine designers, artists, chefs, and craftspeople will set up their boutiques on the entire 3rd floor of this venerable, striped establishment. Time: 3 – 11PM, Location: Henri Bendel, 712 5th Ave. at 56th Street

Fashion’s Night Out at the Corrente Flagship Store: Celebrate the new season with handbag designer Corrente and two talented jewelry designers Rebecka Froberg and Teresa Kahres at the new Corrente Flagship. Stop by for a sip of wine, a bit of a nosh, and some fabulous of shopping with these independent New York designers. Time: 6 – 9PM, Location: 179 Orchard between Houston and Stanton

Fashion’s Night Out with Artists & Fleas: More than 30 independent fashion designers, accessory-makers, vintage enthusiasts and artists showcase new collaborations, new collections and Fall/Winter looks for a night of pop-up shopping and Fall fashion fun. Time: 6 – 11PM, Location: Artists & Fleas, 70 North 7th Street, Williamsburg, Brooklyn

Moved to Sunday due to the weather! Dekalb Market’s Red Carpet Event with Food, Drinks & Tunes: Open Bar, food tasting and art, with a fashion show featuring local designers 66 Blackbirds, Hank & JoJo, Rubyzaar, Little Poco, Honeysuckle + Hearts, Harriets by Hekima. Time: 3PM, Location: 138 Willoughby Street, Brooklyn

Meanwhile, Back in the Meatpacking District:

My dear, talented, wonderful friend, fine artist Amarillis Kroon is having a FNO solo show at the late night Meatpacking salon, Red Market. Originally from Hungary, Ami is a long-time resident of the West Village. I have dubbed her work Nouveau Art Deco, and you will see exactly what I mean when you see the divinely fashionable ladies she is featuring in this show. She also has a magical talent for pet portraits, capturing the very soul of her subjects. Time: 6 – 11PM, Location: 32 Gansevoort Street, Meatpacking District, Manhattan. (Image by Amarillis Kroon: Homage to Sonia Rykiel)

So grab your finest threads and meet me for a fabulous Fashion’s Night Out in the heart of it all, the independent markets of New York City!

Amarillis Kroon at Red Market Salon - 2011 Fashion's Night Out NYC

Dekalb Market- Good Things Are Happening in Downtown Brooklyn

I reported on the new Dekalb Market back in March, and I am thrilled to spread the word that the market is opening this Saturday, July 23rd, 2011! I have posted their press release below. Can’t wait to see how it all came together!

DEKALB MARKET—A HUB FOR ARTISANS, EATERIES AND CREATIVE START-UPS

Brooklyn, NY (July, 2011)—Urban Space is excited to announce that Dekalb Market, a new sustainable hub for retail and community, is scheduled to open on Fulton Mall in Downtown Brooklyn on Saturday, July 23.

A collection of shops, an educational farm, an Internet radio station, and food vendors, the market will provide fun and entertainment for people of all ages. A portion of the market’s vendors will be housed in retrofitted shipping containers, alongside an incubator urban farm. Dekalb Market will be located at the intersection of Flatbush and Willoughby in Downtown Brooklyn, close to Fort Greene, DUMBO, Long Island University, Metrotech, the downtown business district and Fulton Street.

“We’re creating a central location in Brooklyn for commerce, art and design, as well as a functioning green space for people in the neighborhood to enjoy,” says Eldon Scott, President of Urban Space.

Urban Space aims to support the growth of Brooklyn’s best creative entrepreneurs by offering them an affordable retail alternative to a traditional storefront—all in a unique and dynamic marketplace setting.

What you’ll find at Dekalb Market:

Dekalb Farm – An educational resource for the public and the urban agricultural community, Dekalb Farm will be a small urban farm operated by local farmers and education partners, including Family Cooks Productions, 3rd Ward, New York City College of Technology, The Brooklyn Grange, Newton Farm Cooperative, Malcolm X Grassroots Movement, and Atom’s Eco. The farm’s produce will be incorporated into on-site cooking demos, food vendors’ recipes, a local university’s culinary arts program and into a community “food security” distribution plan.

BBOX Radio – A community Internet radio station that will be broadcasting live, online and on-site from their container at the Dekalb Market. Radio show submissions are currently being accepted. Visit www.bboxradio.com for more information.

Food – Some of Brooklyn’s best and newest small food purveyors are setting up shop at Dekalb Market. Vendors include Cheeky’s, Cuzin’s Duzin, Joe the Art of Coffee, Maharlika, Mazie’s Bites, Nile Valley Juice & Sandwiches, Pasticcio, Robicelli’s, Sour Puss Pickles, and Tea by Tiffany.

Shops – Unique, popular, locally-owned designers and purveyors, including B66, Brooklyn Rock, Daga Antiques, Hank & JoJo, Harriet’s by Hekima, Honeysuckle & Hearts, kudu-lah, Little Poco, Pratt Design Incubator and Yakblak Specs & Sunnies.

Weekend Market – A unique mix of makers, artisans and producers will also set up at the Dekalb Market’s weekend market, in custom-made market stalls, which will be open on Saturdays and Sundays.

Events – A variety of events featuring local entertainment and community programs will appear throughout the week.

For more information, visit www.dekalbmarket.com.

Photo of the Day: Meet The Man with the Horse Tattoo

The handmade dolls by Mimi Kirchner have great handmade artistry and no shortage of fashioned whimsy. I came across her dolls at the Renegade Craft Fair in Brooklyn last weekend, and I was intrigued by this fine fellow, also known as The Man with the Horse Tattoo. He looks like an old time circus strongman, and he is extremely charming. Ms. Kirchner makes a wonderful variety of dolls, including the wonderful Bird Lady, wily Professor Fox, and this fine fellow’s girlfriend, the Tattoeoed Lady with a Black Bow.

Ms. Kirchner sells her work as mck254 on Etsy, and she writes a fun and insightful blog, Doll. Watch this Etsy Handmade Portrait for a look into her creative world.

Markets Picks This Weekend – May 21-22: So Many Markets, So Little Time!

WOW! This Saturday is chock full of market openings and events! I’m posting the Market Picks mid-week so you can prepare and plan your busy, hungry weekend. We’re hoping it turns out sunny and apocalypse-free.

Saturday, May 21, 2011

Brooklyn Craft Central’s Shop the Archway: Markets of New York City is a proud sponsor of this wonderful artisan and food market! The location is worth seeing too. The photo above is a tote bag from Astor Knot, one of the clever artisan entrepreneurs you’ll meet under the Archway! (Brooklyn)

Agora Long Island City Market: The Agora Market in Long Island City is the second artisan and food market to open in Queens! This Saturday is their second event. I didn’t make it to the opening, but the photos look great! Where you there? (Queens)

Bedford Barrow Commerce (BBC) Block Association’s Ye Olde Village Fair: This neighborhood street fair is back for it’s 18th year! And for the first time, it is featuring only juried crafters and artists. (Manhattan)

Christopher Street Block & Merchant Association Affair: Lucky for us, this neighborhood fair coincides with the BBC event. Nothing better than strolling through the lovely streets of Greenwich Village this weekend! On Christopher St. between Seventh Ave. and Hudson St. (Manhattan)

Bust Craftacular: There’s no denying that the Bust Craftaculars are huge handmade shopping events! They are always wildly popular and loaded with fantastic artisans. This spring’s events will be no different, except for its new location at 82 Mercer Street between Broome and Spring! (Manhattan)

Smorgasburg – A Brooklyn Flea Food Market: The Brooklyn Flea is about to become an even bigger international foodie mecca! Smorgasburg launches on Saturday in the Williamsburg waterfront location between North 6th and North 7th St., at the East River. There will be over 100 food and food-related vendors, including a Greenmarket. Smorgasburg will be a weekly event. (Brooklyn)

Sunday, May 22, 2011:

Astoria Market: The Astoria artisan market is back for its second year at Bohemian Hall! Artisans, craft shopping, and beer – if that’s not the trifecta for a good afternoon, I don’t know what is! (Queens)

Fine Art and Designer Craft Fair on Bleeeker Street: This festival to raise funds for the Greenwich Village Youth Council is in its 16 year! The quality of the artwork and crafts will be very high, so definitely take a stroll through this market in the heart of the Village.

Greenflea and 79th Street/Columbus Avenue Greenmarket: This weekend, the Greenmarket is back on Columbus Avenue after three weekends of being hosted by the Greenflea during Crafts on Columbus, which ended last weekend. I just have to mention my good friend Carolyn of Wacky Magnets, whose funny magnets will crack you right up! Look for her bright yellow tent just inside the Columbus Avenue Entrance! (Manhattan)

All the ongoing weekend Markets are running full Swing! This week’s picks:

Artists & Fleas: The oldest Market 2.0 in the city, Artists & Fleas’ new location is spacious and filled with great talent and products! (Brooklyn)
Arthur Avenue Retail Market: It is Bronx Week! Go celebrate with some incredible Italian delicacies and a hand rolled cigar from La Casa Grande at this market! (Bronx)

I will definitely see you at Shop the Archway, and I’m figuring out how I can make it to the other great events as well! Let me know what markets you’ll be visiting! And welcome to the lovely Italian journalist who contacted me for market recommendations for her visit to our fair city.

Weekend Picks – Fun at the Markets April 30 – May 1!

Markets and events are opening up like so many bright, happy spring flowers! I can barely keep them straight myself, so I thought I’d post a list of events and openings this weekend. In addition to the ongoing weekend markets — Artists & Fleas, Brooklyn Flea, Hell’s Kitchen Flea Market, Greenmarkets (buy my book if you want the full listing … was that too forward?) — I’ll be posting key events and opening days here on the blog!

Saturday & Sunday, April 30^th – May 1st

Manhattan

Crafts on Columbus (Outside, Artisans) This is the first of three weekends!

Brooklyn

Lyceum Spring Marketplace (Inside, Artisans, Food) Over 60 vendors!

Saturday, April 30th

Brooklyn

Go Green! Greenpoint! Earthday Festival (Outside, Artisans) Educational Activities, music and more!

Sunday, May 1st

Manhattan

New Amsterdam Market (Outside, Food) Theme is “Floralia, Celebrating Green and Growing Things.”

Queens

Astoria Market (Inside, Artisans, Food, Beer!) Opening Day!

Lexington Craft Fair (Outside, Artisans, Food Trucks) Proceeds go to the Lexington School and Center for the Deaf. They have a really great raffle too!

Boston

SoWa Open Market (Outside, Artisans, Farmers, Fleas, Food, Food Trucks, Doggies) That’s right! Here’s a shout-out on Opening Day for our market friends up in Boston! My grandma was born in Beantown, so I feel like an honorary citizen.