11 New York Hidden Local Gems To Discover

There will never be a day where you will be done exploring New York City because there are continuously exciting new things to do and discover. The big apple abounds with surprises and creativity, and because conscious consumption is becoming increasingly important as well as supporting the local businesses, we’ve curated for you the best local gems all around the city. Creative New Yorkers are indeed making wonderful things and whether you’re looking for your next weekend activity, gifts for loved ones, original homeware, or artisanal produces, this list is made for you. Not only will you feel good about supporting the community, but you’ll find some unique and authentic items and products. Keep reading to discover our favorites and get to know a little better your best-loved city.

1. Casa Ziki
If you are seeking inspiration for a gift or unique home decor and furniture, Casa Ziki will know how to satisfy your wishes. This modern gift shop managed by a wife and husband New Yorker duo is simply a wonderful colorful world in which you won’t regret stepping in.
Website: Casa Ziki
Location: 367 Graham Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11211
Hours: Mon-Sun: 11am-8pm

2. Walden
Start 2024 on a healthy mode with the meditation-focused brand Walden. Locally designed in Brooklyn, Walden allows you to practice meditation with a modern and elegant twist, offering meditation and ritual practice products to help one heal and relax. Everything works online, and those unique products are found through Walden's website.
Website: Walden

3. East Village Hats
For the fashion lovers seeking unique headwear, East Village Hats is a charming boutique specializing in making hand-crafted fashion hats for men and women, using traditional methods and materials. Everyone’s preference and style will be satisfied, from classic to elegant designs.
Website: East Village Hats
Location: 80 E 7th St, East Village, New York, NY 10003
Hours: Tue-Sat:12:30-8pm / Sun: 1am-7pm / Closed Monday

4. Barachou
Craving a delicious, sweet treat? Don’t leave the city without checking Barachou. This one-of-a-kind French pastry shop located in both the West Village & Upper West Side is known for its irresistible cream puffs or “choux a la crème” if you want to say it like a proper French. Try one of the 12 tempting flavors from lemon meringue, hazelnut to raspberry.
Website: Barachou
Location: 449 Amsterdam Ave, New York, NY 10024 / 15 8th Ave, New York, NY 10014
Hours: Mon-Sun: 9am-7pm / 8:30am-6pm

5. The Mysterious Bookshop
Make your way to Tribeca to discover the United States's oldest mystery specialist bookstore. Opened in 1979 by the legendary Otto Penzler, the shop holds books full of mystery, crime fiction, espionage, and thrillers. Even if you are not a bookworm, it is a must-visit, as its authenticity and history are worth exploring.
Website: The Mysterious Bookshop
Location: 58 Warren St, New York, NY 10007
Hours:: Mon-Sat: 11am-7pm

6. Feliz Z
If you are looking for unique, cute, and affordable jewelry, the family-owned business, Feliz Z, based in Soho, is hand crafting all the pieces bringing the multicultural heritage touch of their family to their designs. The brand DNA beautifies the unique color and shapes of stones sourced in Latin America, India, and China.
Website: Feliz Z
Location: 518 3rd Ave, New York, NY 10016
Hours: Mon-Sat: 11am-7pm

7. Elorea
Discover Elorea, a unique perfumery founded by a Korean American couple which celebrates Korean fragrance's rich history and heritage. Visit their store located in Soho and begin a multi-sensory experience with welcome products to smell and touch, delicious coffee, special drinks, and chocolates.
Website: Elorea
Location: 41 Spring St, New York, NY 10012
Hours: Mon-Sun: 12pm-7pm

8. Erin White Ceramics
If you are a ceramic enthusiast or just enjoy pretty things, we recommend looking at the wonderful creations of Erin White Ceramics. All the designs are handmade in her studio in Brooklyn. She is also offering personalized collections tailored to clients' homes, private wheel-throwing lessons, hand-building workshops, and group wine and clay play classes.
Website: Erin White Ceramics

9. Ariston Flowers & Café
Need a peaceful break from the business of the city? Ariston Flowers & Café is the perfect place for you. Ideally located in Union Square, this gem opened 40 years ago. In addition to providing good coffee and pastries, their main activity is flower services for events and weddings. Enjoy a little delicacy surrounded by delightful flower scents.
Website: Ariston Flowers & Café
Location: 110 W 17th St, New York, NY 10011
Hours: Mon-Sun: 7am-7pm


10. Happy Medium Café
Experience something different with Happy Medium Café, a unique blend of cafe and art studio. Unlike typical cafes, Happy Medium offers an "Art Menu" where you can choose from various creative workshops while enjoying your favorite drinks. From watercolor collage-making to other activities, let your inspiration flow and have a unique experience with friends or family.
Website: Happy Medium Cafe
Location: 49 Market St, New York, NY 10002
Hours: Sat-Sun: 12pm-7pm

11. M Shanghai
For all Chinese food lovers, this one is for you. We found one of the best places for soup dumplings in Williamsburg. M Shanghai is an adorable restaurant owned and operated by May Liu who brings fresh home-style cooking and homemade dumplings, dim sum, and entrees. Also available for pickup and delivery.
Website: M Shanghai
Location: 292 Grand St, Brooklyn, NY 11211
Hours: Mon-Sun: 12pm-12am