5 Great Only-In-New York Last-Minute Gifts
So you waited until the last minute. Hey, no judgments. You'll find the perfect only-in-New York last-minute gift for everyone on your list at one of the fine emporiums listed below. Happy shopping, and happy holidays! By Jessica Allen.
More than 30 craftspeople sell their wares at Artists & Fleas, a permanent bazaar in Chelsea Market. If you don't spot something for your best friend, your boyfriend, or your boss among the local vendors, you probably aren't looking hard enough. (Bonus: it's open on Christmas Eve day!) Options include jewelry made from real candy and fruit, make up bags with clever slogans, cool eyewear, unusual photographs, and handmade handbags.
Give the gift of America's coolest borough by shopping at By Brooklyn. Everything here, from the jams to the scarves to the notecards to the model kits, is made by "enterprising Brooklynites." As the shop's website explains, "By Brooklyn is a unique space that exists beyond its brick-and-mortar walls, creating a community for artisans to share their experiences, hone their craft, and create further opportunities for the expansion of their artistic endeavors." Doesn't that sound awesome?
The oldest chocolate shop in Manhattan, Li-Lac opened in 1923. From its Greenwich Village storefront come a variety of confections, including barks, bon bons, and bars. All beautiful, all delicious. For a truly special gift, though, opt for one of their edible, made-to-order, 100% chocolate New York landmarks. Your recipient will no doubt get a yummy satisfaction from chewing on Lady Liberty's crown or taking the top off of the Empire State Building.
About 80 years ago, the Martin family made their first pretzel in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Today their recipe is still used by members of the Mennonite community, who sing as they roll, twist, and toss each pretzel by hand. Buy them at the Union Square Greenmarket on Mondays, Wednesdays (Xmas eve!), Fridays, and Saturdays. They come in whole wheat or traditional, salted or not. Every pretzel offers a toasted crunch explosion. Best. Pretzels. EVER.
Give someone the whole of human civilization via a membership to the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Sure, it might your recipient a lifetime to absorb all that can be seen in the museum's many galleries, from the Temple of Dendur to the European impressionists to the gloves made by Yves Saint Laurent, but, man, what a project. When the world starts to feel like a troubled place, we come here, and we're reminded of humanity's astounding accomplishments as well as its potential for joy.
