Anjel Jewelry

Among the changing and the new, here stands Anjel Jewelry at 8114 5^th Avenue, a beautiful family-owned store that has been in business since 1983. Michael Kantar and his wife Sylvia grew up in this city and have continued to serve their customers with honest service and quality merchandise for 25 years.

When walking into Anjel Jewelry, you can trust that you’ll receive more than just a new pair of diamond earrings or a ring. You’ll walk out with the confidence that your purchase was of the highest quality. Michael Kantar is a certified diamond grader with the essential skills to identify and rank diamonds and colored gemstones. Each customer deserves to know what they are buying, especially when it comes to high end accessories. Michael understands the concerns of consumers and does his best to educate them about how value is determined for each piece. “You’ll be sure to get the best quality for your money,” says Michael.

Anjel Jewelry carries wonderful pieces for almost any occasion. The designs range from classic and elegant to contemporary and trendy. If you don’t see something just as you had imagined it, Michael encourages you to design it yourself. Custom orders are available and Michael works with yellow and white gold, platinum, GIA certified diamonds, precious and semi-precious stones, and pearls. No matter how significant the purchase, each customer will receive the same personal service. Michael is an experienced professional who aspires to listen to the needs of his customers in order to better serve them.

Stores like Tiffany’s may be all that most people think of when shopping for jewelry, but I believe that jewelry shouldn’t just be about a popular name and expensive marketing. It should be about quality design, careful craftsmanship, and fair prices. That is exactly what you will get if you shop at Anjel Jewelry. Don’t hesitate to walk by or browse their displays. They are open Tuesday through Saturday. If you are in need of watch service or repair, or are looking to sell your gold and diamonds, Anjel Jewelry handles those things too. Stop by today for all of your jewelry needs.

Badenia

Those familiar with Fifth Avenue know it can be a great place to find a bargain, but did you know that it is also a place to find a quality gift shop that specializes in hand-crafted jewelry?  “Badenia,” located at 8023-A Fifth Avenue, is just that shop.  Before opening Badenia, owner Yuen considered hand crafting beautiful jewelry a leisure pursuit for over 20 years.  What would seem frustrating and time consuming to most people is relaxing to Yuen, who actually finds rest and creativity from crafting jewelry.  During my interview with Yuen, I witnessed the making of a beautiful crystal band bracelet.  Such detail and focus goes into each strand. 

This little shop has been around for two years and has developed into more than just jewelry.  Special gift options for women are available as well as a developing bridal line.  Right now you can find a selection of bridal gowns and bridesmaid dresses through a catalog order process.  There are a few dresses in the store worth checking out too.  Custom-made products are a great idea for brides wanting to coordinate jewelry with dresses and overall wedding scheme.  Larger orders like this can take up to two weeks so don’t waste time getting yourself there.  One feature her customers seem to enjoy is her 30-day layaway plan.  This plan has given her customers the freedom to purchase merchandise without the consequence of high interest rates from credit cards.

 The wide selection of unique styles at Badenia is refreshing.  It really gives people the chance to express themselves.  Individual pieces can be made upon request and only take 1-2 days to complete, depending on the availability of stones and materials.  The product selection includes sterling silver, Swarovski crystal, semi-precious gemstones, cubic zirconium and gold-filled items.

 Check out Badenia, the gift shop on Fifth Avenue today.  If you’re on-line, the website is www.meicollection.com.  The website is still being developed, but it will give you a small taste of the beautiful pieces that Yuen has to offer.

Fika Montino

There’s no denying the universal charm of handbags.  Women buy them for their style as well as their functionality, but I think most women consider shoulder fashion to be an expression of personality and flare.  For this reason, the owners of Fika Montino, located at 7912 5^th Avenue, decided to open a designer inspired store that brings new and creative European concepts to our community.  They offer great styles and affordable prices.

 Fika Montino handbags are crafted with excellent workmanship, distinction and sophistication.  Their handbags are stocked with limited quantities and change every month.  I don’t believe that making a fashion statement requires commercial brand names or hefty price tags, and at Fika Montino you can make your own statement (actually, several statements) with their reasonably priced bags.

 What lured me to the fully lined shelves of bags was their array of colors and textures. 

Some handbags say “look at me” with their loud colors and funky styles.  Others are more subtle, yet chic nonetheless.  No matter the statement, you can find quality bags with distinct detail stitching, fancy embellishments and fashionable hardware.

 A bag for nearly any occasion is available in this quaint location. Bags vary in sizes, colors and functionality from elegant evening clutches to over the shoulder day bags.  

Fika Montino carries several bags in patent leather, which is the present trend in accessories.  However, they don’t just settle to emulate the current trends.  They also actively seek out new trends in Europe and bring them to Bay Ridge for our enjoyment. 

 Fika Montino is a great place to go for a handbag.  However, the fashions don’t stop there.  They also have belts, custom jewelry and crystal key chains.  I’d recommend taking a browse to see if there is something that calls to your personality.  Fika Montino plans to be at the annual 5^th avenue street fair in June 2008, so make it a point to walk by.

Forever Laser

It’s never too late OR too early to begin taking care of your health and beauty.  That is why Forever Laser, located at 8211 5^th Avenue, helps you to develop a beauty regimen specifically suited to your needs. 

 I recently visited Forever Laser and was greeted with a warm and friendly atmosphere upon entering.  The owner, Maya Papunashvili, is a licensed esthetician and has been working in this field for over 10 years, so customers can feel confident that they are in good hands.  She performs a variety of treatments for hair removal and cosmetic skin care in addition to distributing two product lines that offer all natural nutritional drinks, supplements, cosmetics, personal care, weight loss and skin care.  Many of the products feature the Kosher and Islamic Seals of Approval, have not been tested on animals and have demonstrated global appeal for decades.  Maya is a proud user of her products and can testify to their results.  In addition to personal use, she attains knowledge of her products’ effectiveness by frequently attending educational training sessions. 

 Permanent hair removal is offered by means of electrolysis or laser treatment and is safe for anyone over the age of 16.  Additional treatments by laser include skin tightening, dark/age spot removal and facials.  Maya has had the experience of working with a variety of machines throughout the years and it is her conviction that the equipment used at Forever Laser produces longer lasting results than any other.  She stands behind all of her treatments, and claims that they are safe and effective. 

 Maya lives by the philosophy of treating people the way she would want to be treated, so she strives to provide trustworthy services and products.  Free consultations are available and information on Maya’s products and services can be found in brochures at Forever Laser.  Stop by today!

Jean Danet Pastry

Contrary to what some may believe, tradition and contemporary verve can harmoniously coexist, and they do just that at Jean Danet Pastry at 7526 5^th Avenue.  A staple establishment in Bay Ridge for over 50 years, Jean Danet offers traditional European style baking in a modern café-style setting.  I’ve always been a fan of good old traditions but sometimes those traditions can be lost on the younger crowd if they’re not presented well.  Fully aware of this issue, owner Pat Guira made a decision to renovate Jean Danet Pastry four years ago.  Café-style seating was added, and their food selection was expanded.  The menu now includes lunch items like brick oven pizza and panini (to name just a couple), specialty coffees, imported beers and homemade gelato.  The place is filled with delicious, enveloping smells that invite you to dine.  Did I mention they have free WiFi too?   

When it comes to the art of birthday cakes, holiday pies and after-meal desserts, Jean Danet has no equal.  Decades after opening their doors for the first time, customers still line up for their famous strawberry shortcake, cheese cakes, cannolis, pies and more.  Despite the new and modern look of Jean Danet, you can rest assured that the recipes of all your family favorites remain the same.  Pat Guira embraces traditions through old style baking and full-flavor quality and holds all of his items up to the same high standard – whether a traditional recipe or a brand new one.  Ingredients for everything Jean Danet bakes are imported fresh daily, which comes as no surprise because everything tastes so great!    

By stopping into Jean Danet Pastry, Bay Ridge residents can pride themselves on patronizing a long-standing business while still enjoying a fresh, modern atmosphere.  They serve so many delicious treats and hearty meals that everyone in your family is bound to enjoy the trip. 

Bedding Discounters

Elliot Sobol, owner of Bedding Discounter & Furniture at 6701 5^th Avenue, has developed a successful business based on deep dedication to customer service and a passion for what he does.  He enjoys working with his customers, who he eventually grows to know on a more personal level.  They routinely praise Elliot for the individual attention he shows them.  He believes that when relationships are built, a reputation follows and business grows.  Elliot has worked for 20 years with several generations of Brooklyn families, bringing them fair prices and quality products.  Elliot’s customers trust him and trust his character as a business owner and friend. 

 Bedding Discounter & Furniture offers a full-line of furniture for all rooms and for all ages.  They also offer package deals for newlyweds and senior citizens.  In addition, they offer a quick delivery service.  Elliot works with hundreds of vendors, providing unlimited varieties of styles and prices.  If you don’t see exactly what you want in the showroom, they have several merchandise catalogs to order from.  You can rest assured that Elliot will work hard to find something within your price range that you can appreciate and are comfortable with.  Elliot is well aware of mainstream competition and he works hard to bring his customers comparable prices (if not lower ones).  Besides furniture you can purchase rugs, mattresses, lighting, and accessories. 

Elliot Sobol is confident that his line of products can meet your needs.  The majority of his success has been bolstered because his personal care and attention has led to word of mouth referrals.  He is determined to show you that same kind of care.  You’ll be sure to find what you’re looking for at Bedding Discounter & Furniture.  So call 718.238.8224 or visit today.  Also – visit their newest location at 609 86^th Street.  

--Stacy K. Young-Ripley, 6/26/2008

Fritsch Upholstery

As you can imagine, owning and managing a business can be both extremely stressful but also rewarding.  Fred Fritsch, owner of Fritsch Upholstery at 7915 5^th Avenue, has been experiencing that dichotomy since 1976.  This well-loved upholstery store was started by Fred’s father nearly 50 years ago, and has been an integral part of Bay Ridge since then.

Fred Fritsch is the fifth generation in this trade and has carried both family traditions and fond memories into his shop.  He focuses and specializes in upholstery and his operation consists of three talented people who he is extremely grateful for.  Fred credits his way of doing things – the old fashioned way – to his grandfather.  His principle goal is to make sure quality work is produced every time and that customers are fully satisfied.  In order to produce quality work he needs to build on a sound foundation.  Sometimes this requires taking a piece apart and rebuilding it completely.  It’s a lot of work, but the result is a good looking product, guaranteed to hold up.  There’s no question his customers admire and respect this workmanship, as many letters of appreciation adorn his walls. 

The art in what Fred does wasn’t clear in my mind until after our interview.  Fred isn’t just restoring a piece of furniture.  Rather, he’s restoring the memories of loved ones and of family history.  The restoration process can be a very special thing for Fred and his customers. 

Fred’s store is very much like a work room, lined with fabrics from the ceiling to the floor.  You can find patterns that are old and modern, imported and domestic.  Fred Fritsch works hard to keep his business operating and is forced to compete with mass producers of lower quality standards.  I hope that many besides me can begin to appreciate the uniqueness and quality that come out of Fritsch Upholstery.  His work really is worth the attention.  Call him at 718-748-9666 or visit soon.

--Stacy K. Young-Ripley, 7/3/2008

Gino's Restaurant

Anthony Marsillo, the second generation owner of Gino’s Restaurant at 7414 5^th Avenue, has taken a simple pizzeria and transformed it into an elegant full-service Italian restaurant.  First established in 1964, Gino’s occupied a mere 1000 square feet.  Between the years of 2000 and 2005, Gino’s expanded into three storefronts totaling 6000 square feet.  Perhaps it was Anthony’s innate passion for cooking that led to his success, but Anthony credits his supportive family who worked right alongside him every step of the way.  In addition, Anthony could not be more thankful for his employees who all show dedication to quality service.  Seeing as Gino’s continues to serve around 100 dinners a night, this is a huge blessing.

Gino’s is well known in Bay Ridge as a family style restaurant, yet it also serves well for romantic date nights or group celebrations.  Two private party rooms are available that fit 20 to 80 guests and all of your favorite dishes can be served in these rooms as well.  Catering options for off premise parties is no challenge for Gino’s and they are well suited to handle whatever event you may be planning. 

As Gino’s physical space expanded, so did its menu listings.  Some of the most popular dishes are pasta e fagioli, rigatoni with Italian eggplant and sausage, and specialty salads.  You can also order traditional pizzeria dishes such as spaghetti with meatballs and chicken parmigiana.  Gino’s success at keeping their customers loyal comes from their ability to be consistent in their cooking.  The philosophy for cooking is to keep the recipes simple while never sacrificing flavor or presentation.

Visit Gino’s today and you won’t be disappointed.  You’re sure to walk away well-fed and satisfied with the quality of food.  You can check out Gino’s Restaurant online as well by visiting www.ginosbayridge.com

Ideal Optical Choice

I never had a reason to visit an optical retailer until my interview for this column, but if my eyes begin to fail me, I now know where I can go for quality eye care.  Ideal Optical Choice, located at 7602 5^th Avenue, is a full-service optical center owned and operated by an experienced father- and-son team. 

Alex and Eugene Vayner have been in this business for 12 and 8 years respectively.  In July of 2007, they opened their first business together.  When they opened, Alex and Eugene made it possible for most unions and insurance plans to be acceptable including Medicaid and Medicare.  They offer high quality products for all budgets and treat each individual with equal respect.  They understand the importance of satisfied customers and they pledge not to let customers leave unhappy.  Margaret Kearns, a customer of Ideal Optical, shared with me her experience in comparison to other optical stores.  Ms. Kearns says that she can walk into Ideal Optical and feel totally comfortable, like she is at home with friends.   

The layout of the store is open, modern and clean.  Their glasses and accessories are neatly displayed and organized.  They also have an on-premise eye doctor during the week.  It is recommended that eye exams be conducted once a year, so Ideal Optical provides this service as well.  Alex and Eugene take their work seriously and they’re committed to building a good reputation and a growing business.  What separates Ideal Optical from a franchise is their passion to work hard and please their customers.  For Eugene, hearing someone say “I can see!” is a rewarding experience that never grows old.

In hopes of setting themselves apart from other retailers, Ideal Optical Choice carries a large selection of products including exclusive designer frames, specialty lenses, titanium flexible frames and all sorts of contact lenses.  Sunglasses can be made with prescription wrap-around lenses, which are not commonly found elsewhere.  Additionally, Ideal Optical offers all sunglasses and contacts without a prescription, so anyone can shop there – even those with perfect vision. 

If you’ve been looking for eye care that’s customer focused and competitively priced, check out Ideal Optical Choice.    

Mirna's Engravables

Some people are blessed with the skills and crafts that are necessary to create beautiful pieces of art.  George Khayata is an example of just such a person.   He is the owner of Mirna’s Engravables, located at 7520 5^th Avenue, and he possesses the unique ability of designing and hand-engraving jewelry. 

As a young boy, Mr. Khayata discovered his passion, developed it and taught himself everything he knows.  Despite mastering his technique as an engraver, Mr. Khayata still continues to explore his creativity with jewelry design. He has even started to create his own line of fine jewelry with meticulous hand-engraved patterns. 

 When walking into Mirna’s Engravables you can expect to find a range of great gift ideas most of which can be personalized to your needs.  There can be limitations, but thanks to Mr. Khayata’s 30 years of experience you can trust that you will receive an exceptional product in the end.  Engraving can be done by hand or machine and is considered by Mr. Khayata to be the final touch in making a gift truly special. 

Don’t be fooled by the small space Mirna’s Engravables occupies.  They manage to pack in everything from baby rattles to coffee mugs.  You can also find picture frames, clocks, jewelry boxes, money clips and of course, jewelry. Personalizing merchandise is usually a same day service.  Large orders for party favors and custom work are options and can be completed within two to four weeks (with free gift-wrapping included).

It is my strong suggestion that you stop by Mirna’s Engravables to browse the displays and stay tuned for the developing website (www.mirnaengravables.com) and custom designs by George Khayata!

True Love Wedding Group

Bay Ridge is home to many restaurants and shops, but one is distinctive in the services it offers to the community.  In a world where time is of the essence, three partners have pooled their talents to create the True Love Wedding Group at 7113 5^th Avenue, a one-stop-shop for creating memorable events.  Lawrence Wen, along with his partners, Chao Yuan and Federico Lendoff offer their services to make your party planning a simple task.

As a recent bride myself, I had the experience of planning a monumental life-experience without the aid of an event planner, so I would have been very interested to know how it could have been a bit simpler.  When I met with Lawrence Wen for this interview, he exuded professionalism and sincerity.  He aims to offer his clients many options and assists them in making the best choices according to their budgets and styles.  Mr. Wen has a true understanding for what makes a party successful and seamless, and works to efficiently plan events and coordinate everything from limo transportation to catering.

Entertainment is covered by Federico Lendoff who works with each client to help set the mood for fun, romance or excitement.  True Love also has an on-site photography service headed by Chao Yuan.  The main aspect that distinguishes True Love’s process of photography from others is their ability to print photos in an in-house lab.  Without having to outsource, customers receive better quality work for less money, all within a shorter period of time.  Mr. Yuan and his colleagues are well versed in various styles of photography and can offer a plethora of ideas and options.  If you want to see samples of his work, simply walk by the store to view the eye-catching display or go inside to view an album. 

The factor that gives True Love an edge over other companies or a do-it-yourself plan is the fact that they have access to a network of specialized professionals who work with them consistently.  True Love holds their vendors to a very high standard so their clients are always pleased with the results.  Not to mention, your time and sanity are priceless commodities that will likely be lost if you plan a huge event yourself.

True Love Wedding Group really can provide it all, with minimum stress on the customer.  They believe that each party is unique and special and that nothing can be put together by using a template design.  If you want to reduce the stress of your next event (and I’m sure you do), stop by today.  They have two additional locations in Manhattan and Queens and you can visit their website at www.truelovewedding.com for more information.

7 Channels, Inc. "As Seen On T.V."

If you haven’t yet discovered the As Seen On TV retail store at 7524 5^th Avenue, then start discovering.  Walk in and you’ll be met with a wide variety of brilliant products designed to help you with almost any situation.  Problems that I didn’t even know existed have a solution in this store.  The shelves are loaded with great gadgets for almost any person, house or pet, and these products also make great gifts.  They also have on premise gift-wrapping, so your gift buying experience is assured to be nearly painless. 

As you can imagine, people could spend hours in this store perusing the products and the miraculous ways in which they work – each item offering something different, new and time saving.  As the business name suggests, all these items are advertised on TV and are available to be purchased via the telephone.  However, the benefit of a store like this is the customer’s ability to see the product up close and make a smarter buying decision.  You’re able to actually touch and see the product.  If you are prone to buyer’s remorse, don’t fret because they have a flexible return policy as well.

In the very near future, As Seen On TV will be carrying a small line of holistic/herbal healing products specifically serving the older generation of this community.  This decision stemmed from customer inquiry for products that can help with achy bones, high blood pressure, etc.  The owner admits these products won’t bring in large profit margins but that isn’t her biggest concern.  She’s in the business of helping others, even in the tiniest of ways.  The owner loves the smiles and satisfaction these products bring to her customers and that is where her joy comes from while running this business. 

My personal experience in the store was welcoming and not high-pressure.  I was free to roam and read about each product and I left with my interest piqued.  I encourage you to visit.  I’m sure you’ll have a similar experience.  If you’re looking for unique, practical products, As Seen On TV is a must-stop. 

Touch of Nature

Who can blame a person for wanting a quick solution to a painful problem?  Many people have health problems, but more often than not, solutions prescribed to treat symptoms fail to eliminate the root of the issue.  This is where holistic medicine comes in.   

Simon Freytor and Aleks Shkolnik, owners of Touch of Nature at 8409 5^th Avenue, are dedicated to your health and well-being.  They sell a range of holistic products that are intended to strengthen your body’s defenses against disease.  Before my interview with them, I only had general ideas about what “holistic” meant.  It was explained to me that the holistic approach is to treat a patient’s whole body as opposed to just treating the symptoms of a greater cause. 

Sometimes with great loss comes a passion for change, and this was true for Aleks after losing a loved one.  It prompted him to open Touch of Nature in order to bring about awareness of a choice beyond conventional medicine, a choice to start taking better care of your body with natural and whole food products.  “It’s a lifestyle”, says Aleks. “Some people just aren’t aware of the options out there”.  Touch of Nature wants to inform this community of the helpful powers from homeopathic treatment, vitamins, supplements, teas and more.  Their thinking is simple; the best way to fight disease is all-natural prevention.

To help give us all a fighting chance, Touch of Nature has brought a great selection of products to Bay Ridge.  The brands carried have been around for 10 to 50 years and are known all over the world.  In addition to the vitamins, supplements, and teas, they also carry a wide variety of natural, chemical-free make-up, skin care products and hair care products.  They believe that health is not just internal, but external as well.  To have a completely natural lifestyle, external beauty products should be all-natural as well. 

Regardless of age everyone is susceptible to illness.  For that reason, a line of products is available for children and teens.  Everyone can have the choice to begin an alternative way of living.  Simon and Aleks care about you.  They want you to live a healthy life.  Visit their store and start learning how to live your life for the better. 

Touch of Nature is on-line at www.touchofnatureny.com. They also carry two lines of all-natural, professional hair care products that are immediately available to any interested salons at wholesale rates. 

Salon Briana

I had never experienced a full-service salon until I walked into Salon Briana at 8319 5^th Avenue.  I was actually taken aback (in a good way) with the personal attention I received from the owners, sisters Rosemarie and Elaina Guiliano.  Despite the amount of customers already occupying the salon, they both treated me like a loyal customer and made obvious efforts to make sure I was comfortable…and I was!  There is no denying Salon Briana’s objective of making people happy. I listened to stories of how real relationships between clients and stylists had developed and grown simply because of a sincere concern for customer service.

Salon Briana recently celebrated their 15th year in business by offering their customers discounts on services and products for the entire month of April.  They also raffled prizes to one lucky customer and donated proceeds to cancer research. 

Like any other salon, you will find the usual wash, cut and style plus hair treatments like deep conditioning to perms, however, Salon Briana also offers corrective coloring services (a rarity in this neighborhood).  Rosemarie has over 25 years of experience in corrective coloring, and is renowned by her clients as the finest colorist they’ve ever dealt with.  She has been passionate about her art since she was a young girl and to this day, she truly loves her job.  What really impressed me about the owners is their motivation to use their passions to help other women feel beautiful, not only on the outside but on the inside as well.  One of their long-term goals is to establish inspirational workshops in the salon for employees as well as for the public.

Other services that I found unique at Salon Briana were make-up applications, hand massages while you wait, accessories for purchase, and an on-premise licensed massage therapist. 

From the outside, Salon Briana might seem like any other salon on 5^th Avenue, but take a step inside and discover a team of women who truly appreciate their clients.

Schnitzel Haus

One of my favorite things about Bay Ridge is the cultural diversity you can find through food.  I recently discovered an authentic German restaurant called Schnitzel Haus, located at 7319 5^th Avenue, and it is a great part of the cultural collage that makes up this community. 

I walked into Schnitzel Haus on a Wednesday evening right before the dinner crowd and was met with mouth-watering smells, German music playing throughout and hardy laughter from a celebrating crowd.  As I sat at the bar waiting to meet the owner, Fred Urban, I noticed the restaurant’s full line of German beer, a selection of wines and top shelf liquors.  The menu alone is quite impressive too with over 50 entrée choices, a kid’s menu, appetizers and desserts.  German food is predominantly pork, but you can find almost anything on their menu, including a vegetarian platter and various salads.  

When asked why people come back to the Schnitzel Haus, the answer is simply “the food.”  The chef is a native of Germany and has trained in various countries around the world.  Fred’s wife Amber lovingly describes the cuisine as “comfort food.” 

Schnitzel Haus features live entertainment on Thursday, Friday, and/or Saturday nights and a calendar of events can be found on their website (www.schnitzelhausny.com).  Entertainment includes music from local bands and jazz jam sessions.

If you’re feeling intimidated by the thought of eating German cuisine for the first time, check out Schnitzel Haus’ buffet night where you can taste a variety of their dishes.  The wait staff is also very helpful with recommendations so just ask. They aren’t condescending and are really quite pleasant to chat with.  They do a great job at making you feel welcomed and right at home.

Schnitzel Haus offers 2 floors of seating.  However, they can get very busy, especially on the weekends, so note that reservations are suggested, but not required.  Off-premise catering is also available.  Ask about their party packages for all occasions. 

This past October, Schnitzel Haus celebrated the well-know German holiday Octoberfest and had to regrettably turn customers away.  It’s in the owner’s plans to eventually expand so that never happens again.

If you’ve been shying away from Schnitzel Haus, do so no longer!  It’s a great atmosphere to dine in while embracing the wonders of German cooking. 

Verrazano Bicycle Shop

Tomas Kim, an international transplant, came to Bay Ridge in 1989 and opened his first bicycle shop in 1991.  His current store, Verrazano Bicycle Shop at 7308 5^th Avenue, recently celebrated its fifth year in business. 

Mr. Kim has had a passion for bicycles since he was a young child, taking them apart and repairing them in his free time.  That passion is now evident in his business.  As an avid bike rider himself (he bikes between 100-120 miles a week!), Mr. Kim is able to offer safety tips on riding, and as a father of two, he understands the concerns of any other parent.  He stands behind all of his products and owns two Trek brand bikes himself.  The Verrazano Bicycle shop also offers repairs, maintenance services, accessories and one on one custom designing.  The products he sells at Verrazano Bicycle benefit a range of people with different needs. There are bikes for children, families and professionals.  Participants of the annual Five Boro bike tour repeatedly come to Verrazano Bicycle for their services. 

Mr. Kim says bike riding offers the children in this community an alternative activity to video games.  Bike riding is a physical activity that forces you to be outside.  He loves to see a family stop in his shop to purchase bikes for the intent of quality time together.  As I was in the store, a mother was buying a beautiful, training-wheel bike for her daughter (a helmet too, of course!), and I couldn’t help but think about the fond memories that she’ll create with that bike. 

Spring is here.  Summer is coming.  What better way to enjoy the weather than on a brand new bike.  Stop into Verrazano Bicycle Shop to browse their selection and start creating memories.

Richie's Bay Ridge Carpet

Fresh out of school, Richie Wells needed a job to pay the bills.  His opportunity came from a friend who asked him to work in the flooring industry, and it was there that Richie discovered his natural talents.  His affinity for numbers, people and the order completion process quickly became apparent and he allowed his talents to flourish.  Young Mr. Wells never dreamed of owning his own company, yet in 1985 he decided to go into business for himself and for 23 years Mr. Wells has cared for his customers in Bay Ridge and its surrounding neighborhoods.  As the proud owner of Bay Ridge Carpet & Linoleum Corp. at 7710 5^th Avenue, Richard doesn’t regret his decision.

Mr. Wells is a people person and he enjoys one-on-one contact with customers.  He understands the nature of the flooring industry and relishes the opportunity to take on new work.  A nine-to-five work day doesn’t exist for Mr. Wells.  His work clock revolves around his customers’ schedules, frequently resulting in evening and weekend appointments.  Mr. Wells doesn’t complain though.  He finds pleasure in his work and he wants to make sure people are happy.

Bay Ridge Carpet & Linoleum Corp. provides installations and service on carpets, tile (ceramic & vinyl), linoleum, and laminate flooring.  Richard Wells is a “hands-on” owner, and you can expect him to be there from start to finish.  In this business, communication is necessary to ensure that the customer gets exactly what he or she expects.  That is why Mr. Wells insists on being involved with the order and installation process.  In addition, Mr. Wells keeps labor in-house and makes sure that employees are trained to high standards, resulting in quality work and fast turn around times.

Even after two decades of being a business owner, Mr. Wells continues to strive for perfection.  In our interview, Mr. Wells wanted to express gratitude for all of his customers – past, present and future.  Without them, he would not have had the success that he has been blessed with.  He hopes to continue his service to them and to all of his future customers as well. 

S & J Meat Market

Fifth Avenue is an ever-growing and developing jewel in Bay Ridge thanks to business owners who provide what the community needs.  Brothers Mohammed, Samuel and Joey Othman owners of S&J Meat Market at 8306 5^th Avenue are no exception to this rule.  What was once a failing establishment has been revived and improved thanks to their efforts.  I spoke with Mohammed for this article and he was eager to let the community know that S&J Meat Market is not  the business it used to be.  

The most significant change occurred in their products.  They pride themselves on providing fresh meat, hand picked and of the highest quality.  Their meat comes straight from Brooklyn’s meat packing district, and deliveries are made daily.  S & J’s selection of fresh meat is large and includes chicken, veal, pork, lamb and a variety of turkey meat.  A butcher is always on hand and can provide custom cutting for all customers. 

In addition to all the fresh meat, S & J has expanded the groceries available at their market.  Customers can find shelves packed with brand-name products at great prices. 

Mohammed knows he can’t provide everything that his customers request, but he does his best to make sure they are happy.  They even hope to begin carrying a line of organic and all-natural brands in the future.

Additionally, S & J strives to keep their prices low.  Customers have consistently commented on S & J’s low prices and sale promotions.  Unlike other markets, S & J’s sales run longer than the expected 7 day period.  Mohammed does his best to make S & J a successful business without the high mark-ups that are so commonplace nowadays (a welcome change in these expensive times). 

S & J is conveniently located near fruit and vegetable stands, and they also offer a delivery service.  They will deliver groceries to any home within Bay Ridge.  Check out S & J Meat Market for all of your meat and poultry needs.  You won’t be disappointed. 

Bay Ridge Gifts (Hallmark)

Hallmark: The Gift of Customer Service

If you're looking for that perfect greeting card, holiday ornament or decorative collectible, you can usually count on your neighborhood Hallmark store to provide the goods. If you're also looking for some superb individualized service though, you are in luck, because Bay Ridge Gifts (Hallmark) located at 7310 Fifth Ave, offers more than just the standard display items. They truly give the gift of customer service to their customers.

Owner Bob Patel, an industry veteran of 25 years, knows a thing or two about gifts and prides himself on using his extensive knowledge to bring only the best to his consumers. He frequently attends trade shows and peruses catalogues to hand select the top Lenox, Precious Moments, and Demdaco gift items that line his shelves. For children, he has a wide assortment of colorful Webkinz, the latest craze in stuffed toys since the celebrated Ty Beanie Babies. These interactive plush pets are store bestsellers and if Bay Ridge Gifts doesn’t carry the one you want, Bob will personally order it for you. In fact, this is the kind of service Bob offers on most of his items- if a customer wants something particular, he will do his best to locate it and have it shipped to his store. This kind of personal attention is virtually nonexistent these days.

In addition to gifts, Bob's Hallmark offers unlikely services such as digital photo processing, passport photos, custom rubber stamps, legal notices (lease and renewal forms, promissory notes, etc.), and a public notary. They also carry a full line of scented Yankee Candles and are currently ordering all new fall fragrances. And if you're already thinking about the holidays, Bay Ridge Gifts has two large areas devoted just to the popular Hallmark Keepsake Ornaments.

The store is due for a renovation early next year and Bob plans on making the layout more convenient for his customers and adding many new products. In the meantime though, at Bob's neighborhood Hallmark, you can always count on being greeted with a smile, getting just what you need, and receiving some exceptional customer service.

Lee's World Pet Supplies

A Healthy 'World' for your Pet

As a recent dog owner - my puppy Oskar just celebrated his 4 month birthday - I am constantly on the lookout for local pet stores to fulfill his needs. When I came across Lee's World Pet Supplies, located on the corner of 74th Street and 5th Avenue, I was thoroughly impressed by their food selection, colorful toy displays, and knowledgeable customer service. John Lee, an avid animal lover, and his family have been in the pet supply business for the past 15 years, currently owning a second store on Staten Island. As a child, John would often find stray cats on the street and bring them into his home as companions for the pitbull and yorkie that the family owned.

It was the family's fondness for animals that eventually led them to open their pet supply stores, specifically focusing on providing natural and organic food products for dogs and cats. John realizes the importance of a nutritious diet in maintaining a healthy and balanced pet. As bargain brands like Pedigree experienced recalls in food quality, John knew he had to bring a better alternative into his store. Lee's World now stocks its shelves with brands like Wellness, made from 100% all natural ingredients, and Nature's Variety, which offers grain-free, meat-based pet food. Other natural and certified organic varieties such as EVO, Innova, Natural Planet Organics, Newman's Own, and Mother Nature biscuits are also available.

One of the more interesting food-related items in the store was the Nature's Variety meat freezer. As John explained, since dogs and cats are meat eaters by nature, many owners are now choosing meat-based diet for their pets. Nature's Variety Raw Frozen Diets are 95% meat, raw ground bone and organs, with fruits and vegetables added. They are available in 1oz medallion size or the larger 8oz patty and varieties range from organic chicken to beef, lamb, venison, and even rabbit.

To make food selection an easy process for the consumer and their beloved furry friends, Lee's World offers free samples of most dry food and treats. They also have an array of brochures available so that owners can read up on some of the products that the store supplies. Needless to say, customer service at Lee's World is superb. As I browsed the toy shelves, Liz, one of the knowledgeable employees, was able to answer all of my questions and recommend the best products for my teething puppy. The toy selection was impressive, featuring the pet approved brands Nylabone, Dingo, Petstages and more.

If you own birds or fish, Lee's world also offers many products for these kinds of pets. Food, fish tanks, and pretty bird cages line the back of the store. Prices on all pet products are comparable to mega stores Petland and PETCO, but if you find a product cheaper at one of these locations, Lee's will match it. With great products, prices, and top customer service, pick up Fido and head to Lee's World Pet Supplies today. Dogs are welcome!

Henry's Florist

Henry's Floral Factory

 As far as romantic (or celebratory) gestures go, I've always been more of a chocolate over flowers kind of girl. If it was a choice between Godiva and roses, I'd say, "Bring on the chocolate truffles!" However, after spending some time at Henry's Florist, located at 8103 5th Avenue, I have definitely come to appreciate the appeal of a non-edible floral bouquet.

Henry's, family owned and operated since 1929, is a floral wonderland of sorts - or perhaps, the floral equivalent of Willy Wonka's chocolate factory. Upon entering, you are surrounded on all sides by gorgeous floral arrangements and exotic plants, and immediately feel like you have been transported from a busy Brooklyn sidewalk to a whimsical garden. This breathtaking ambiance has been largely cultivated by current owner Peter Giannopoulos, a family friend of the original owner Henry. Peter, a native of Greece, has been in the floral industry since the age of fourteen, helping out in his uncle's flower shop shortly after arriving to America. After developing a passion for his craft and polishing his green thumb, he decided to open his own shop and eventually took over Henry's Florist in the late 1970s.

Since that time, Henry's Florist has become a true leader in providing the finest floral arrangements and gifts to the customers of Bay Ridge and beyond. Son and manager Telly Giannopoulos refers to their store as an "all-around florist" and that description deservedly rings true. From weddings to funerals, fresh flowers to dried floral arrangements, fruit baskets to gift baskets, Henry's Florist does it all. In addition to traditional floral services, they make it a point to go that extra step for their customers, coming on premises to personally decorate weddings and even homes for the holidays. Often working with top event planners, Henry's offers decorating services for weddings, parties, and corporate events, which include all necessary amenities such as catering and event rentals (linens, chair covers, etc). Pretty much, if you want flowers at your next celebration, Henry's is a one-stop shop for everything else as well.

If you're merely seeking a small bouquet or potted arrangement, Henry's Florist is fully stocked, all year-round. They have one of the largest selections of plants in Bay Ridge and receive fresh shipments on a weekly basis. As for the gorgeous variety of flowers that Henry's sells, from the reddest long-stem roses to the purest white lilies to the cheerful yellow sunflowers, you simply cannot go wrong with their selection. And if Henry's does not have the specific flower you desire, they will order it for you, provided it is in season, as they have florist contacts all over the world. Also convenient is their in-store supply of greeting cards, balloons, and stuffed animal toys, ensuring that you'll never forget that special touch when you buy a bouquet for your loved one.

Last but not least, weddings remain a top priority for Henry's Florist, as both Peter and Telly share a creative talent and passion for constructing the picturesque arrangements that decorate a couple's most special day. "Thank You" cards from happy brides cover the walls of their shop, each enthusiastically praising their work. One such cards states, "Still getting compliments almost 6 months later." Since words almost cannot describe the beauty of these arrangements, it is highly recommended that you check out their wedding events website at www.henrysfloristweddingevents.com and their general website, www.henrysflorist.com. Chocoholics - trust me, you won't be disappointed!

Bay Ridge Home Center

Home Center Fever!

If walking through the Bay Ridge Home Center brings on a feeling of nostalgia in its customers, it could be for one of two reasons. To begin with, the home improvement store has been a neighborhood resource for approximately 70 years, formerly holding the names "Six Brothers Hardware" and "Pearson Hardware." Chances are, if you grew up in the area, you may have stopped in with your folks as a kid to buy some paint for the house or some tools to help dad fix the leaky pipes. However, even non-locals may get an odd sense of familiarity while browsing the aisles of the Home Center. "Why," you ask?

Well, the Home Center got their 15 minutes of fame back in 1977 when it was owned by the six Albergo brothers - hence, the original name of the store. In the spring of that year, a young John Travolta began shooting his blockbuster film "Saturday Night Fever" throughout various parts of Brooklyn and the brothers' hardware store was his first stop. Travolta played the main character, troubled teenager Tony Manero, who worked in a hardware store during the week and danced the night away on weekends at the local discotheque. He filmed in Six Brothers Hardware over a period of two days and would rehearse his lines in the back of the store during the breaks. Outside of the store, large crowds of fans gathered, all hoping to catch a glimpse of the rising star. The Albergo brothers were lucky enough to actually meet him and get some photos taken, one of which still hangs in the newly named Bay Ridge Home Center.

The Home Center, located at 7305 5th Avenue, is currently owned by Lenny Plotkin, who has managed to keep most of the store's long-established history and charm in tact. The Home Center carries all of your standard home improvement necessities: electrical and plumbing supplies, hardware items, a large selection of paint, and even home cleaning items. Lenny and his staff are knowledgeable about pretty much everything pertaining to home improvement and will answer any questions you may have. What I was most impressed with, however, was the layout and ambiance of the store. While other hardware stores are often cramped and intimidating, the Home Center has wide-open aisles, very neatly stocked shelves, and good lighting. All dangerous equipment such as saws, blades, and power tools (even hammers and screwdrivers) are safely housed in large glass cases that line the walls of the store. This definitely makes shopping with children a less worrisome process.

Aside from standard hardware items, the store carries a colorful assortment of flower, fruit, and vegetable seeds, which would make perfect stocking stuffers for the gardeners in your life. They also have many home items, from espresso makers to pots and pans to a large assortment of shovels, which we will soon need for the winter's first snowfall. And if you're planning on updating your cabinets before all of the holiday parties come around, the Home Center has an entire aisle devoted to knobs and handles.

With all of these extras, Bay Ridge Home Center is more than just your average hardware store. So if you're missing something at home and need it quick, check out 7305 5th Avenue. They'll most likely have what you need and won't give you a weird look if you disco-dance your way out, Saturday Night Fever style!

J's New Dance Center

J's, A Great Place To Dance!

Joyce Adams Beck, a born entertainer, has been dancing and acting for as long as she can remember. From a young age, she and twin sister Joan have made it a point to perform wherever and whenever they could find an audience, which strengthened their love of the art and improved their innate skills. From shows to dinner theatre to movies and television - she has appeared in the movie All That Jazz and on Saturday Night Live - Joyce feels that where there is a need for entertainment, she is more than happy to fill the void.

As a young graduate of Brooklyn College with a degree in dance and a member of the Screen Actors Guild, Joyce felt like she was ready to share her knowledge and talent with others. In the 1980s, she enthusiastically opened the New School of Dance on 3rd Avenue and delighted students young and old with the joyous art of dance for over 20 years. In 2004, Joyce moved her school to its current location, 7315 5th Avenue, and aptly renamed it J's New Dance Center.

J's New Dance Center offers classes in classical and contemporary dance, including ballet, Pointe, tap, Broadway, jazz, funky jazz, acrobatics, and salsa. Aside from traditional classes, J's is also home to the well-known Holiday Dance Company. In order to give back to the community, Joyce decided to form this unique dance ensemble which now performs at retirement homes, benefits, and fundraisers throughout the year. In addition to being a nice treat for the viewers, it also gives Joyce's students a chance to perform before a live crowd and truly polish their performing skills. And, in order to make dance accessible to anyone and everyone, J's New Dance Center holds an all-day event twice a year for the young members of the Huntington YMCA.

Joyce believes that dance and performing enhances all aspects of a person's life, from developing self-esteem and confidence to building poise and cultivating a positive attitude. I was delighted to hear of one adult student who, because of a speaking role in a performance, later received rave reviews on his doctorate speech because he had "theatricality." Another student obtained a 4-year musical theatre scholarship to New York University and yet another became a stage director for college plays and productions. Dance, as it turns out, is often a stepping stone for future opportunities for Joyce's students. Since J's philosophy is teaching her students the fundamentals of dance, they are able to develop solid techniques to use wherever they decide to venture in life. She also welcomes all levels of dancers, even those who feel they have no natural talent. At J's, Joyce works with each individual to channel their specific skill set and help them build that essential confidence.

While visiting the Dance Center last week, I was lucky enough to catch an exclusive preview of their upcoming holiday performance. Never before have I seen a group of more excited and passionate dancers than the ones I saw shuffling their feet and shaking their hips at J's. From young children to adults, everyone participating was so genuinely elated to be a part of the routine, revealing the effects of Joyce's warm and non-intimidating teaching methods. If actions speak louder than words, then you have to see them for yourself. Stop by J's and watch some of the rehearsals- you will most likely find yourself tapping your foot and wishing you were part of the merriment!  

Brooklyn Art

Custom Framing, Art and More!

If you've been meaning to get that hard-earned diploma framed for months or have been yearning for some new artwork for your living room, look no further than Brooklyn Art, located at 7709 5th Avenue. A Bay Ridge artist's oasis for over 40 years, Brooklyn Art is your one-stop-shop for all art related products, including various fine art supplies, how-to books, and art portfolios. However, their specialty lies not only in the tools used to create art, but also in their extensive custom framing department and large selection of gallery paintings and prints.

Originally a Holbro paint and wall covering store, Brooklyn Art evolved into what it is today when its current owners, the Kyviks, took over in 1971. Instead of focusing on paint, father and son David and Dennis Kyvik decided to go in a new direction and built their enterprise around artwork and the framing of artwork. But to make this shop even more exciting, Dennis recently partnered up with long-time sports memorabilia veteran Steve Polster, adding an extensive collection of autographed and rare sporting items (art in their own right) to the store.

Entering Brooklyn Art today is like entering a mini-gallery of art and sports history, your eyes darting from frame to artifact, in awe of the beauty and quality of the hanging works of art and the interesting sports displays. In fact, if you have ever walked by the shop, you have probably stopped in your tracks at the sight of the life-sized statue of Muhammad Ali in the window, beckoning both sports fans and art fans to come inside for more. Once inside, items that immediately catch the eye are the "autographed art on canvas"- original paintings of sport legends such as Yogi Berra, signed by both the artist and Mr. Berra himself! Also extraordinary are the variety of autographed items including the traditional baseballs and figurines and unusual items such as cleats, boxing gloves, and even signed Wheaties boxes.

Walking past the memorabilia area which takes up the front portion of the shop, you are soon pleasantly greeted by the colorful paintings and supplies of Brooklyn Art and the "wall of frames" towards the back. The back wall actually consists of an entire layer of frame samples, in all colors and designs, conveniently cut in an L shape to make the selection process incredibly easy for the consumer. When a customer comes in with an item that needs framing, whether it's a photo, a painting, or even a t-shirt, Dennis takes the time out to personally consult with the customer, testing out various samples and giving his expert input until the customer is completely satisfied with how the finished product will look. Also of note is that Brooklyn Art is a full-service frame shop, meaning all framing is completed on premises and your artwork does not leave the location. This definitely gives customers their piece of mind when leaving valuable art with Dennis and his attentive staff. Brooklyn Art even picks up and delivers large and/or heavy paintings and any other items that need framing.

If you are looking to purchase some artwork for your home, be sure to check out the huge selection that Brooklyn Art supplies through their art catalogues. From photography to all styles of painting, you can place an order for a specific size and it will be custom framed in the style you desire when it arrives at the shop. You can also order many items online at www. brooklyn-art.com.

For the perfect holiday gift for any art lover or sports fanatic in your life, stop by Brooklyn Art and browse their exciting collections. Your unique gift will definitely leave a lasting impression!

Galaxy Comics

Being the comic book neophyte that I am, an opportunity to spend a few hours in Galaxy Comics, located at 6823 5th Avenue, quickly became an eye-opening and thrilling crash course in all things related to comic books and the recent surge of their movie adaptation counterparts. My newfound excitement for this genre is mostly due to the friendly owners and staff of Galaxy, who truly make their establishment seem less like a comic book store but more like a hangout for comic enthusiasts- where they happen to sell comic book merchandise. Their warm enthusiasm and seemingly unlimited knowledge on the subject is one reason I'll be coming back to Galaxy for my next dose of superhero/villain drama.

Galaxy's owners, Abdulilah Esa, his cousin Abdo Esa, and Mohamed Nashra, have been comic book aficionados since childhood. At the young age of 11, Abdo began selling his vast collection at small hotel comic book conventions and later, as a teenager, sold his prized books in the front part of his father's wholesale store. Eventually, following their childhood dream, Abdo and Abdulilah opened their first Galaxy Comics, located at 429 5th Avenue, which still stands today. More recently, they, with Mohamed, acquired this second location, formerly the longstanding Mutant Mania 3, a staple of the neighborhood for over 27 years. Ironically, Mania was one top spot that Abdulilah and his friends often frequented as children, combing the shelves for the latest and greatest in comics.

As Abdulilah and Galaxy employee Brian explained, comic books have been making a thunderous comeback due to the increase in their movie adaptations. Recent box office smashers such as the Spider-Man trilogy, The Incredible Hulk, The Dark Knight, and the highly anticipated Watchmen (in theatres March 2009) have resurrected a certain fanaticism that had been dormant in the general public for quite some time. Since then, comic books have been steadily attracting a large and growing audience and easily falling under the category of mainstream pop culture, gaining fans from unlikely sources- myself being one of them!

Also newly popular are graphic novels or trade paperbacks, which are complete collections of previously serialized comic books. These are bound in the same format as paperback novels, making them not only convenient to read but also visually stunning. Most comic books, as I learned, have adult themes and concepts- in fact, Galaxy only has a small section of the store devoted to children's comics. With subject matters ranging from the sociological and political to the more widely read entertainment-based fiction, there's something at Galaxy to pique anyone's interest. For instance, one series titled "Y: The Last Man" chronicles a world where, as a result of an experiment gone awry, only one man has survived in an otherwise female population. Such a storyline, in addition to being unique and thought-provoking, also surpasses gender lines, appealing to both male and female readers.

Aside from comic books, Galaxy also stocks a full line of character collectibles and action figures, from popular Marvel and DC favorites to movie legends such as Hannibal Lecter and Rocky Balboa. They also carry a wide selection of magazines for hit TV shows such as Lost, Heroes, Smallville, CSI, and 24, to name a few.

The next time you're in the mood for some entertainment and a quick history lesson in comics, take a trip around this 5th Avenue 'Galaxy' (appropriately located next to Bay Ridge Alpine Cinemas) for an out-of-this-world experience!

Industry

A trip to SoHo without leaving the Ridge 

Looking down Fifth Avenue at 82nd Street, newly opened clothing store Industry tends to stick out like a freshly polished and well-manicured thumb. From its sleek, all-glass storefront featuring three sharply dressed mannequins to the cool contrast of its lime green, white, and black interior, Industry definitely makes you look twice. From first glance, it almost appears as if a chic SoHo or Village showroom has been transported right to the center of Bay Ridge - which is exactly the look and ambiance that owners Richard Goltry and Edward Lynch were intending to capture.

Richard, an artist and singer, has been in the fashion industry for over 20 years. An alumnus of the School of Visual Arts and Parsons School of Design, his original graphic designs have graced the pages of magazines such as Punk, NY Rocker, and Rolling Stone since the 1970s. After cultivating his talents in graphic art and also experimenting with photography, he eventually branched out and began integrating his unique designs onto clothing items such as t-shirts, jackets, and hats, essentially creating wearable art. With two successful clothing stores in SoHo and East Hampton under his belt, Richard was looking for a quieter neighborhood that he could bring some edge to and he found the perfect location in our very own Bay Ridge.

Industry's clothing is the perfect mix of upscale and up-and-coming, offering the latest styles from fashion favorites such as Nicole Miller and Custo Barcelona, while also blending in newer labels such as Nuvula and Lara Kazan. Nicole Miller items include a selection of gorgeous dresses, perfect for any special occasion, while the vibrant Custo line features everything from t-shirts to dresses to jackets. Nuvula, designed by two sisters from Columbia, is a true fusion of art and fashion, with all clothing items merging original graphics with poetry and narratives. Jeans by Canadian company Small Town were also quite fabulous, with punk-like zippers crossing the back pockets and interesting detailing on the front.

Most impressive is that every item of the clothing at Industry really pushes the fashion envelope- nothing is typical or ordinary. One item that I repeatedly went back to was a hand-made vest sewn entirely of zippers from a city designer that Industry buys select pieces from. Obviously, this is one designer piece that you won't see everyone else in the neighborhood wearing as it is practically one of a kind. Other items from this designer include a belt and coat featuring similar zipper-themed designs- truly unique goods for any fashionista's closet. Richard, always a trend setter, rather than follower, is aiming to "inject some freshness into the neighborhood" with Industry, and I can vouch that he is definitely succeeding in this endeavor.

To stylishly combat the frost that has recently dusted our city, Industry offers charming chunky-knit hats, scarves, gloves, and even leg warmers in an array of colorful hues. This is in addition to the plentiful selection of beautiful coats, like the black wool belted car coat with extravagant fur collar on display upon first entering the store. Industry will soon be expanding its line to offer handbags, jewelry, and possibly some men's goods as well. In the summer, they plan on using the store's outdoor patio area as an additional space where customers can relax and enjoy their time spent at Industry.

In the interim, for a trip to chic SoHo without enduring the hour-long subway ride, visit Industry at 8216 Fifth Avenue. With a 20% off holiday sale and a clothing selection that rivals the closets of fashion editors and celebrities alike, a trip to Industry simply can't be missed!

Hit or Miss

Vintage or antique goods always tend to evoke a sense of nostalgia in me. I get lost in my thoughts of who owned a particular item, if it was someone's favorite, or why they gave it up. These thoughts ran through my mind as I browsed Hit or Miss Treasures, a bargain furniture and antiques shop located at 7114 5th Avenue. With beautiful solid wood furniture, ornate wall mirrors, framed original paintings, and even fine china and silver, there is a treasure to be found for every customer that walks through the door of Hit or Miss.

Owner Mohamed Abdelmagid, a native of Egypt, has been in the vintage and antique goods business for over a decade. He opened this particular location eight years ago and has greatly enjoyed the business of buying and selling used goods. Every week brings new excitement for Mr. Abdelmagid as he frequents auctions in various states to find new wares for his store. He looks for "nice pieces at good prices" that he would put in his own home. He realizes the importance of keeping prices low so that items get sold quicker, allowing him to get newer items into the store in a timely fashion. If you're a regular customer, as most of his customers often become, you'll know that there is new merchandise added on a weekly basis.

Mr. Abdelmagid also knows the value and importance of superb customer service. If you are looking for a particular piece of furniture or artwork (perhaps you need a new coffee table with a glass countertop), you can request the item and he will keep a lookout for it when he visits auctions. When he finds something that matches your description, he'll pick it up and give you a call so you can come in and see it - most times, it's a perfect match! Hit or Miss Treasures also has a great flexible payment policy for more expensive pieces, allowing customers to pay over the course of a month while the store holds their new prized possession.

Walking through Hit or Miss and admiring the selection, I was impressed with the quality and craftsmanship of every item on the floor. Most pieces, especially the furniture, seem to be one-of-a-kind and everything is in "like new" condition. This is due to the fact that Mr. Abdelmagid makes it a point to buy only high quality items. For instance, every piece of wood furniture is either solid oak or cedar - never anything mass produced, but rather finely crafted by skills artisans, usually in the United States. For this kind of quality, it must be mentioned that the prices are a steal! One item that caught my eye was a large chest made of gorgeous cedar, complete with a hinged interior shelf, for slightly over $200. Such a piece in a Manhattan showroom would go for well over $600, but can be found in our very own Ridge for a fraction of the cost at Hit or Miss. Another plus is that every item has a price tag clearly displayed - there is no ambiguity or on-the-spot pricing, which makes for a more comfortable vintage shopping experience.

Another item that had my attention was an elegant Victorian chaise lounge in a sunny yellow cloth. I couldn’t help but imagine the type of person who must have relaxed on this piece, perchance wearing a mink shawl and enjoying a cup of high noon tea. Before my imagination got the better of me, I continued to browse and came across an exquisite grandfather clock with brass triple-chimes, a glass-blown vase in cheery summer colors, and a beautiful painting of a quaint European town that surely belongs on a lonely living room wall- maybe yours!

For anyone who enjoys the thrill of vintage goods shopping or is simply looking for excellent craftsmanship at an unbeatable price, Hit or Miss will definitely have the "Treasures" you're looking for.

Little Lords Little Ladies

Little Clothing, Big on Style

 Little Lords Little Ladies, an upscale children's clothing store located at 8217 Fifth Avenue, has been a Bay Ridge favorite for over 16 years. Back in the early 1990s, owner Susan Marianovsky had been a fabric buyer in the fashion industry when she gave birth to her first son. When she began shopping for her "little lord", however, she realized that there was a gap in quality baby clothing in the area. Specifically, she was looking for classic pieces that would transcend the temporary trends of fashion. Within a year, Susan decided to take matters into her own hands and open her own children's clothing boutique featuring timeless fashions for girls and boys.

Susan searches far and wide to bring only the best and most unique ensembles into her store. Most clothing is imported from France, Italy, and other countries known for their excellence in fashion, which means that Little Lord's clothing is not only expertly tailored, but also distinctive in style. Little Lords Little Ladies outfits children from newborn to preteen and everything in between. They also carry every category of clothing, from sportswear (jeans, t-shirts, sweaters) and outerwear to special occasion pieces and accessories.

As you mothers and mothers-to-be can imagine, sportswear clothing is absolutely adorable and I strolled the aisles saying "Aw, how cute!" about pretty much every item. Most of the sportswear clothes are sold as complete outfits, featuring a top, a bottom, and an over-layer. For instance, a girl's outfit can consist of a matching shirt, skirt, and sweater. You can buy a few of these 3-piece outfits and mix and match for countless looks. Outerwear items range from puffer jackets to fur coats to rain coats and many other styles. Accessories include hats, scarves, and headbands to match many of the outfits and outerwear items and really complete a look.

Aside from everyday pieces, Little Lords Little Ladies specializes in special occasion wear. They have an immense collection of communion dresses, wedding apparel (flower girl dresses, suits for boys) and holiday outfits, including a Santa Claus inspired dress in red velvet with white furry trim - too cute! Communion attire is definitely one area that Little Lords prides itself on and Susan is always on hand to offer her expert advice to customers looking for the perfect dress for their little ladies. Most customers end up coming in for numerous fittings, as dresses are custom tailored to fit each individual child, and it is evident that Susan works hard to make sure these moments are comfortable and stress-free for her clientele. Little Lords Little Ladies also has a staff designer who will work with you to create a custom creation, should you not find a design that suits your needs - although, with such a large and diverse collection, I would be surprised if this could even be possible.

The store has been a local favorite for so many years that Susan has young adults stopping in to say hello who had shopped in the store as children - two of which have recently got married! This is not surprising as the quality of clothing and the exceptional customer service of Little Lords Little Ladies speaks for itself. If you're in the area and looking to shop for a little person of your own, Susan's whimsical, and yet classic, children's fashions won't let you down!

Choc-Oh!-Lot Plus

"Choc-Full" of Sweets!

Chocoholics, welcome to paradise! At Choc-Oh!-Lot Plus, located at 7911 Fifth Avenue, whether you're a seasoned baker, an amateur Willy Wonka, or simply have a sweet tooth, you won't be disappointed with the tasty selection at this Bay Ridge confectionary. Established in 1979, Choc-Oh!-Lot Plus originally started out as novelty store featuring a full range of supplies for candy and cake decorating. When current owner Charles Arnone took over several years later, the store evolved into so much more- a complete chocolate and candy emporium!

Arnone has been around sugary delights since he was a young boy and was often found helping his mother create chocolate and other treats in her gourmet shop. He soon developed a passion for the craft and when he was only 19 years old, the opportunity to occupy his very own shop came along when a neighbor was selling the original Choc-Oh!-Lot Plus. He didn't hesitate to take on the challenge and in order to truly make the shop his own, he quickly expanded to include a wide assortment of ready-made candy and chocolates, in addition to the decorating supplies already sold.

            Choc-Oh!-Lot Plus currently boasts over 150 varieties of bulk candy, all neatly displayed in glass jars behind the long counter, creating the appearance of a scrumptious candy rainbow across the wall. Old time favorites such as Bit-O-Honey, Mary Janes and Bazooka Joe Bubble Gum neighbor modern goodies such as Sour Patch Kids, Mike and Ikes, and Swedish Fish, and add a nostalgic feel to the shop. Of course, Choc-Oh!-Lot Plus wouldn’t be complete without "a Lot" of chocolate - over 98 different varieties are sold. White chocolate mousse truffle, almond butter crunch truffle, sea salt caramel truffle. Cherry cordials. Almond bark. Jelly rings. Oreo-covered pretzels. Chocolate-covered marshmallows. Is your mouth watering yet? How about a giant-sized, 1lb. Sugar Daddy bar?

            If your interest lies more in making confections rather than eating them (or in addition to eating them-surely the best of both worlds), Choc-Oh!-Lot Plus is definitely your local source for all cake, cookie, brownie, and cupcake paraphernalia. From metal cake molds and cookie sheets to over 2,000 chocolate molds, there is an item for every dessert of your liking and for any occasion. If you are just beginning your baking adventures, the store sells complete kits and gourmet cake mixes which include everything you need to get started in the right direction. Choc-Oh!-Lot Plus also offers Wilton-method cake and cookie decorating classes which teach you the basics of leveling, icing, and using pastry bags.

            For special occasions such as baby or bridal showers, Choc-Oh!-Lot Plus can create custom chocolate lollipops in any mold of your choosing as treats for your guests. For instance, chocolate lollipops shaped like teddy bears with colorful ribbons make perfect party favors for baby showers or kid's birthday parties. If you crave something simpler, the shop has just installed a 21-color M&M machine enabling you to customize your own bags of M&Ms candy.

            With Valentine's Day around the corner, Choc-Oh!-Lot Plus has all the goods (and inspiration) you need to bake something sweet for your sweetheart. From heart-shaped cookie and cake molds to red and pink sprinkles, your valentine will definitely enjoy whatever tasty treat you decide to create. Of course, they also offer a variety of ready-made Valentine's Day goodies and don't forget to stop by on February 13th and 14th for some freshly-made chocolate covered strawberries!

Legends Sporting Goods

A Local Sporting Goods Legend

With top of the line sports equipment, clothing, and gift items, Legends Sporting Goods, located at 8224 Fifth Avenue, definitely hits a home run! A neighborhood favorite for over 20 years, Legends proudly offers the latest and greatest in sporting merchandise for baseball, football, hockey, boxing, and even darts. But that's not all! Legends is also the sole distributer for Boy and Girl Scout uniforms and accessories in the Brooklyn area, which certainly earns them a coveted patch for distinctiveness.

Peter Lanza, owner of Legends and a life-long sports fan, gained his expertise in the sporting goods field when he and his brother Andrew opened a small baseball card and memorabilia shop named Sports World in the early 1980s. The predecessor to the mighty Legends, the store became popular by hosting memorabilia shows where famous players would come in to sign autographs and take photos with fans. Several years later, when Lanza wanted to expand, he didn't have to look far when he scored a space right across the street from Sports World. It was then that a Legend was born!

For local athletes and sports fans alike, Legends Sporting Goods is the not only the #1 source for equipment, but also for jerseys galore. From your standard authentic MLB, NBA, NFL, and NHL jerseys to limited edition gems to rare "throwback" jerseys in mint condition, Legends most likely has a jersey to pique your interest. Not surprising, Lanza says his bestselling jerseys feature none other than the Brooklyn Dodgers, while the store's original 1971 Clemente Pirates jersey remains a throwback favorite.

If you're looking for something specific, speak with a friendly Legends associate to place a special order as they are more than happy to help you find exactly what you need. Another perk of their superb customer service is their custom in-house lettering on jerseys, as well as other clothing items. Getting one's name printed on the back of their favorite team's jersey makes a unique and timeless gift for any sports devotee. Another great gift idea is a custom-made sports plaque which highlights a proud team moment or championship with a photo and gold-tone description plate on a gorgeous wood background. Legends also has a notable collection of vintage baseball cards, going as far back as sealed 1987 Topps cards, in addition to more recent baseball card sets like a 2004 Yankees vs. Red Socks commemorative box set.

If you're a baseball fan, stop by Legends to pick up the highly collectible 2008 Official MLB Championship Series Programs which contain more than 200 pages of coverage. These programs, offered for the American League, the National League, and the World Series, were only available at the stadium or on MLB.com, making Legends an exclusive place to snag your copies of the limited edition guides.

            If you're a player as well as a sports enthusiast, Legends is fully stocked with all the equipment necessary to help you play the game! They provide quality items like American-made Nokona buffalo-skin gloves, as well as the handcrafted Rawlings Gold Glove Series gloves worn by Yankee player Derek Jeter. They also carry a wide assortment of youth and adult wood and metal bats, batting and catcher's helmets, and all types of sporting footwear. For kids, Legends carries the popular protective gear line Heart Guard, which feature a sternum pad embedded inside their shirts to protect and support your little slugger's upper body while they play.

            As the weather warms up and we head to the parks for some summer-time sporting fun, make sure you visit Legends to stock up on your favorite sporting good needs! You may also visit their convenient website at www.newyorklegends.com.

Bay Ridge PIzza

A Slice of Bay Ridge Wholesomeness! 

For a hearty taste of the American dream, head over to Bay Ridge Pizza and Restaurant, where Sal and Tony Tumminello have been making delicious Italian pizza (and more!) since 1978. From the time when they were young and ambitious cooks in Sicily, brothers Sal and Tony shared a vision of moving to New York and opening a cozy family restaurant which served wholesome food made with rich and healthy ingredients. Taking only their savings and themselves, they made it to the Big Apple in 1977 and found a prime location for their dream eatery at 7704 Fifth Avenue. After toiling day and night for months, Bay Ridge Pizza finally made its neighborhood debut in March of the following year, much to the brothers' joy and excitement.

The hard work didn't end there though, as Tony and Sal couldn’t yet afford to hire any additional staff and took on all of the duties that the restaurant demanded. They cooked, cleaned, promoted, and most importantly, made sure that they greeted each customer like they were family stopping by for a homemade plate of lunch or dinner. It was this unwavering passion and commitment, combined with traditionally-rooted culinary skills - and some parmesan cheese sprinkled on top- that quickly turned Bay Ridge Pizza into a local favorite.

Over 30 years later, when you stop by Bay Ridge Pizza for a slice of your favorite Margherita pie or a delicious meal like their Penne Alla Romano, you'll most likely find either Sal or Tony (or both!) still behind the counter. The brothers, now joined by Sal's son Gaspare, still possess the original enthusiasm of their younger selves, determined and always working hard to make sure their customers never leave unsatisfied. The fruit of their dedication is evident as Gaspare notes that many customers "grew up in their pizza parlor and still come back as adults, now bringing their own kids to eat the same food that they grew up eating."

Needless to say, the family-owned Bay Ridge Pizza prides itself on using only the freshest ingredients and making their dough and sauce using the same recipes that Sal and Tony brought over from Italy in the 1970s. Their panini sandwiches are also created using home-baked bread, with nutritious ingredients like chicken, fresh mozzarella, roasted peppers, basil, and their own homemade balsamic vinaigrette dressing. Because all orders are made fresh and on-premises, customers are able to tailor their meal to satisfy their taste, whether they are dairy conscious or care for less or more salt.

Aside from being an eat-in pizzeria and restaurant, Bay Ridge Pizza offers full catering for all occasions, as well as for schools and corporations. They offer about 40 different types of Italian dishes, including pasta, meat, and seafood varieties, wine by the bottle, and even dessert to make your holiday, christening, or birthday party a tasty success! They also handle the entire food setup, as well as provide wait staff if necessary and even travel into Manhattan, so no party is too big or too small for them to handle.

Back inside the restaurant, I had the pleasure of sampling a Bay Ridge Pizza specialty - their Grandma slice. As a self-proclaimed "crust connoisseur", I was extremely impressed by the crisp, melt-in-your-mouth, thin crust of this divine pizza. It wasn't too doughy or too crunchy and not at all burnt- it was perfect. Atop this super crust was a combination of slightly sweet plum tomato sauce, savory cheeses, and just the right amount of spices to kick up the wholesome, fresh flavor. I felt like I could taste every ingredient, and as I sat in a booth enjoying my slice, I began to conjure up images of old New York in all its glory and two brothers working hard to make their dream come true. At Bay Ridge Pizza and Restaurant, they have truly succeeded.

New Home Furniture

At Unbeatable Prices

Looking for a new living room set or bunk beds for your kids, but think you can't afford it? Well, New Home Furniture's unbeatable prices and incredible selection may change your mind. New Home Furniture, located at 6745 Fifth Avenue, is your local source for traditional and contemporary bedroom sets, dining room sets, living rooms sets, kid's rooms, and decorating accessories- all for affordable prices.

            Sam Asad, owner of New Home Furniture, says the key to his store's success is keeping costs low while providing quality products and superb customer service. Mr. Asad opened his furniture emporium in late 2006 after working in the restaurant industry for 10 years. Ironically, New Home Furniture's location used to be a restaurant prior to Mr. Asad taking over and fulfilling his lifelong dream of becoming an entrepreneur. Since that time, his focus has been set on finding the best products for his loyal Sunset Park and Bay Ridge clientele.

He admits that even in modern times, locals tend to invest in a traditional look, so he makes sure that his store is stocked with the latest in classic and beautiful pieces, in addition to more modern ones. Since it is crucial for a client to be 100% satisfied with what they place in their home, New Home Furniture also offers "custom orders" from numerous furniture and accessory catalogues. From an endless selection of bedroom, dining room and living room sets in an array of colors and fabrics, catalogue orders make choosing exactly what a customer desires an easy and convenient process.

New Home Furniture also sells brand new (never refurbished) mattresses in sizes twin to king starting at only $100. If that sounds cheap, try finding a complete living room set elsewhere for as little as $600 or a 5-piece kitchen set for $299! As far as price points go, Mr. Asad maintains that his prices are so affordable that if you bring in a circular with a cheaper price- even after purchasing from him- he will beat it. He believes that in order to keep his customers happy, it is important to try to accommodate all budgets, which is why he's willing to make little to no profit at times. Another customer service gem is that most items come with a 1-year warranty, so if anything happens to break, New Home Furniture will come and fix it for free!

One of my favorite items in the store and something that anyone living in small Brooklyn quarters will appreciate is the "3-in-1: Store, Sit, Sleep" sofa bed. A regular couch at first glance, it opens up to a full storage area under the cushion and also unfolds into a bed. This sofa bed is perfect for a guest room since the storage space can house extra pillows and sheets at arms length. If you're looking for more space-saving solutions, New Home Furniture offers an excellent selection of children's convertible bunk beds. The beauty of these is that they can easily be converted into two separate beds if you happen to move into a bigger place and your kids finally get their wish for separate rooms. Other items of note are the gorgeous crystal chandeliers hanging above you as you walk through the gallery of furniture- so be sure to look up for a luminous surprise while you're browsing at New Home Furniture!

If quality furniture, great selection, and affordable prices aren't enough, New Home Furniture also offers free delivery and in-home setup. They are open 7 days a week and friendly furniture associates are always on hand to assist you with picking out the perfect additions to your home. For a quick glance at some of their pieces and for more information, visit their website at www.newhome-furniture.com.

Shaggie Pet Grooming Salon

From "Shaggie" to Well-Groomed

Amanda Leung has been passionate about hair cutting and styling since she was a young girl- but not the kind for humans. As manager and lead groomer at Shaggie Pet Grooming Salon, located at 6706 Fifth Avenue, Ms. Leung has been taking her scissors and working her grooming magic on her four-legged customers for over 10 years.

When Ms. Leung was only 8 years old, she picked the most obedient dog of her family's many pets, "the best one, the one that always listened to me, and said 'Sit!' and gave him a haircut," she now recalls. As the old saying goes, she practiced and practiced- sometimes giving her pets less than attractive haircuts- until she was almost perfect. When she was old enough to attend college, she knew she wanted to get a degree from the New York School of Dog Grooming in order to take her love of grooming to the next level. She started off as a pet bather in a salon on Long Island before being promoted to stylist. Bathing, as Ms. Leung explains, is the most crucial aspect of the grooming process because you develop the basic skills of how to handle an animal and it's the first contact that the animal has with the groomer.

Aside from the initial bath, (using your choice of oatmeal, flea and tick, or hypo-allergenic shampoo and conditioner) Shaggie Pet Grooming Salon offers the full grooming package. This includes: brushing, hair trimming/styling, nail clipping, ear cleaning, gland cleaning, and complimentary teeth brushing to keep your pup's breath fresh and minty!

Package prices are determined by hair length (short vs. long) and size of breed. For short-haired dogs under 25lbs, prices range from $35-$40, which is incredibly reasonable as it takes about 2-3 hours to complete the grooming process for a small breed. Medium breed pricing ranges from $45-$55 and larger breeds from $60-$75 since they obviously take more time to wash, dry, cut and style. Shaggie Pet Grooming Salon accepts all sizes of dogs "as long as they fit into the tub" and are not aggressive.  Yorkies, Collies, Poodles, Labradors, Shih Tzus, Shepherds and Dalmatians are all welcome!

            Ms. Leung recommends that pet owners begin bringing their dogs to the groomer at 5 months of age, shortly after receiving their shots. This ensures that the puppy properly adjusts to the idea of someone other than its owner washing, brushing and cutting their coats. By the time a dog is a year old, it becomes more of a traumatic experience for them to be introduced to a groomer for the first time, so the earlier the better.

            At Shaggie Pet, Ms. Leung always takes a personal approach to her customers (the pets) and their owners. The walls are covered with photos of her furry clientele, many of which she has seen grow before her very eyes from puppies to full-grown dogs. For holidays such as St. Patrick's Day and Valentine's Day, pups leave the salon in style with holiday-themed bows or a bandana. For instance, this past weekend, all dogs donned green bows or a green, clover-patterned bandana in celebration of Sunday's St. Patrick's Day Parade, which also happened to take place on Fifth Avenue.

            In the spring and summer months, Shaggie Pet Grooming Salon also sells puppies from local licensed breeders, so check out their front window when you pass by if you're interested in a furry friend of your own. And for those of you who already have the privilege and joy of a loyal canine companion, bring them to Shaggie Pet for top of the line grooming and so much more!

The Woodburning Pit

BBQ from the Portuguese Pit

As an occasional food critic for this column, I've had the good fortune of picking up several tips on how to prepare appetizing cuisine from some of the best eateries in Bay Ridge. There's been chocolate making, cake baking, and traditional stovetop shaking, but chicken and ribs over a woodburning pit? Now that's something new!

            The Woodburning Pit, located at 6715 Fifth Avenue, is a Portuguese barbeque or churrasqueira that has an unusual method of sizzling its savory dishes. Instead of a traditional grill, family owners Linda Leon, Maria Poulos, and Eleanor Pinho installed a custom built, brick encased "pit" in the middle of their restaurant which cooks food in two distinct ways. On the left side of the pit, chicken (or frango in Portuguese) is rotated on a hand-operated rotisserie over woodchip-infused charcoal, while the right side is used for grilling a variety of meats and fish such as their famous pork ribs or costela de porco.

As owners of the first pit of its kind in Brooklyn, Linda, Maria, and Eleanor take great pride in bringing an unusual cooking method and a new flavor to the neighborhood, as was their intent when opening the restaurant in November of 2008. The women have long shared a love of Portuguese cuisine, which Linda grew up enjoying and cooking alongside her mother who comes from small town in Portugal. Upon realizing that Brooklyn was missing this cultural and culinary connection, they decided to bring a tasty bite of Portugal back into the area with a unique twist - the pit. Focusing on fresh, healthy food, a comfortable atmosphere, and unbelievably affordable prices, The Woodburning Pit has quickly become a local favorite.

The ambiance is inviting and cozy with a Mediterranean glow resulting from the yellow and blue walls, warm lighting, and original hardwood floors. Peeking over the lengthy counter, you can watch as the B.B.Q. chef artfully grills your food to tasty perfection on the infamous pit, while listening to the sounds of jazz, Latin, and even some house music played from the owners' own iPod. The staff is incredibly friendly and at least one owner is always on hand making sure the restaurant is running to their high standards.

Eating the food, of course, is the best part of this authentic Portuguese dining experience. From chicken and ribs, to T-bone steak and salmon, to soup and sandwiches, The Pit has you covered in terms of flavor and variety. Most items are seasoned with simple and fresh ingredients like salt, white wine, and lemon juice, which leaves them moist and bursting with flavor. As a bonus, all entrees are served with garlicky Portuguese rice and homemade fries, peeled and cut fresh each morning and cooked in healthy soy oil. They also offer genuine Portuguese wine and beer, with brands like Sagres and Super Bock, as well as a secret-recipe Sangria that Maria and Linda brew in total privacy downstairs - not even the waitresses know the recipe! Also top secret is The Pit's signature dessert, a magnificent flan perfect in both consistency and sweet caramel taste, its recipe borrowed from Linda's mother-in-law.

The Woodburning Pit is unveiling their new backyard seating area in May, complete with umbrella clad tables, foliage galore, and music - perfect for a hot summer B.B.Q. feast! Conveniently, the restaurant may be rented out for special occasions and will soon be open until 11 PM on Fridays and Saturdays. During the week, check out their incredible lunch special featuring a chicken and rib combo with rice and fries for only $5.99. With great prices, a pleasant atmosphere, and delicious Portuguese food straight from Brooklyn's first woodburning pit, this dining experience should not be missed!

Bay Ridge Specialty Pharmacy

Specializing in Customer Service

            While walking along Fifth Avenue, a pharmacy is not something that is likely to catch your eye unless you're running low on toilet paper or you need to fill a prescription.  Bay Ridge Specialty Pharmacy, located at 7618 Fifth Avenue, caught my eye for the latter reason when a big name competitor didn't carry my brand of generic medicine.  As luck would have it, the newly opened Specialty Pharmacy specializes in customer service, not only ordering my meds via next-day delivery, but also offering to deliver them to my residence free of charge!  I was so impressed by the high level of personal attention that I decided to speak with owner Igor Gravov about the other perks his neighborhood pharmacy offers the community.

            Grabov, a native of Odessa, Ukraine, has an extensive background in specialty medications and has been in the pharmacy business since the age of 19.  After obtaining an education at Long Island University's well-known College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences and taking business classes at Pace University, he combined his interests of pharmaceuticals and commerce to open Bay Ridge Specialty Pharmacy in March of 2009.  In order to compete with the larger pharmacies in the area, Grabov says his focus lies in providing the best customer service and patient care to his clientele.  With a dedicated staff of two pharmacists and one RN, this growing pharmacy will surely offer up some competition in terms of service.

              However, being a "specialty pharmacy" has its own important appeal that will soon make this small neighborhood pharmacy stand out from the rest.  Within a year, Grabov expects his store to be fully certified to dispense oncology, HIV and hepatitis medications, which may not be obtained at just any pharmacy.  Their specialized pharmacist will also offer prescription compounding, which aims to provide medication with an exact match to a patient's tasting preference, such as flavoring children's meds, or flexible dosage forms, such as crèmes versus lozenges.  This kind of customized service offers customers a more convenient way of taking medications that are often cumbersome.  They will also specialize in fertility drugs, diabetic medicine and substance abuse medicine.

              Bay Ridge Specialty Pharmacy also offers copy and faxing services, a notary, and free pick-up and delivery to all New York City boroughs, which is especially useful for elderly or disabled customers.  Soon, the store will also be the first in New York to use PickupZone, a new service that allow you to choose a convenient neighborhood location (such as the Specialty Pharmacy) as the pick-up point for where your packages are delivered.

              Being from the Ukraine, Grabov also stocks his pharmacy with a small supply of Russian and Israeli over-the-counter medicines and beauty products, such as dry mustard patches and Dead Sea Spa mud masks.  Also unique is the store's variety of organic products featuring brands like Humphrey's Organic Botanicals, Dessert Essence Organics and Avalon Organics.  Aside from these specialty items, the remainder of the pharmacy sells all of your favorite drugstore essentials, including baby products, grooming and shaving necessities, an entire aisle of vitamins, school supplies, children's toys, select electronics and numerous household items.  So whether it's toilet paper or a prescription, head to Bay Ridge Specialty Pharmacy, where personalized customer service is their number one priority!

Long's Wines & Liquors

"Longing" For Perfect Wine?

              A few years ago Heather Hamilton, a budding wine enthusiast, wanted to expand her knowledge of this captivating, grape-based beverage and thought, what better way to learn than with a crash course as owner of her own wine shop?  In March of 2008, she brought her idea to life and took ownership of Long's Wines & Liquors, a family-owned-and-operated business established in 1983.  Leaving behind a career in commercial Broadway theatre management and production, Hamilton enthusiastically pursued her passion, diligently studying wines and figuring out new ways to improve the long-standing Long's, already a Bay Ridge favorite.

              Long's, located at 7917 Fifth Avenue, now boasts an eco-friendly green fridge and a chilling well that cools your favorite white wine or champagne 25 times faster than a standard refrigerator --- in seven minutes, your beverage is ice cold!  In addition to some minor renovations, Hamilton has also reorganized the store layout so that wines can easily be located by either grape variety (i.e. Riesling, Pinot Noir, Cabernet), or by a region, such as France, Chile, or Australia.  With more than 700 kinds of wine to choose from, a well-organized store is as necessary as it is helpful, and to make things effortless for even the most persnickety of wine consumers, Long's has informational  labels and reviews placed next to most wines and liquors in the store.

              "We don't like the same foods, so why would we drink the same wine?" reasons Hamilton, understanding the importance of variety for her customer's diverse tastes and stocking her store accordingly.

              If you're only beginning to explore the extensive world of wine, or have forgotten the name of something that once piqued your palate, Hamilton or a member of her friendly staff can assist you with finding exactly what you're looking for, or make a recommendation that might turn out to be your new favorite.  From traditional grape wines to more uncommon varieties such as seasonal apple wine, pomegranate wine and mead, the oldest alcoholic drink known to mankind (made from pure Grade A honey and fruits), Long's certainly has something for everyone.  It even carries one of the largest selections of Greek wine and ouzo in all of New York.

              If you're more into spirits than wine, Long's also carries an extensive assortment of distilled beverages such as gin, brandy, vodka and the ever-popular tequila.  The great selection of infused vodkas caught my attention with exotic flavors like Mountain Huckleberry or Rainier Cherry by 44◦North and Celery Peppercorn or Black Truffle by Modern Spirits.  Many of these premier vodkas bring the level of alcohol down from 40 percent to 35 percent, thereby enhancing their already flavorful taste.

              Hamilton also makes a point to support local distillers and wineries such as Long Island Spirits, makers of LiV Vodka, the first vodka ever to be distilled and bottle on Long Island, and Tuthilltown Spirits, makers of Hudson Baby Bourbon, the first bourbon whiskey to be distilled in New York.  Another local favorite is Brooklyn Oenology, a winery headquartered near Williamsburg that features a different artist's work on each of its removable wine labels.

              If you're looking for a good deal without compromising quality, check out Long's Cheap & Tasty section with all wines under $10, tasted and approved by Hamilton herself.  For a sampling of something new, stop by on Friday and Saturday evenings for the store's weekly tastings and receive a 10-percent discount on purchases of that day's tasting selections.  Check out the website at www.longswines.com for an upcoming tasting schedule, as well as past tasting notes and featured wines and spirits.

              With discounts galore and an unbeatable selection, Long's Wines & Liquors is sure to please both palate and wallet!

Skinflints

Satisifes All Appetites!

              Originally established as an ice cream parlor in 1915, Skinflints, located at 7902 Fifth Avenue, is now a Bay Ridge favorite when it comes to hearty American cuisine and a family-friendly atmosphere.  With their juicy, 8-oz. charbroiled burgers, fall-off-the-bone barbecue baby back ribs and mouthwatering mashed potatoes, ice cream is merely an afterthought - - - although it's still served as a dessert item on the menu!

              Currently owned and operated by Gerard Bell and William Gardella, who have happily held the honor for more than 30 years, Skinflints still retains much of its original décor and charm.  The wooden accents, stained glass ceiling panels and even the early-1900s ice cream-making machine all lend themselves to the coziness of the establishment.  Modern-day features slowly snuck in as the ice cream shop transformed into a restaurant and bar in the 1960s and now include televisions at the bar as well as in the two dining rooms and a backyard café, complete with plants and a miniature waterfall. 

              To further nurture this comforting ambiance, the walls of one of the dining rooms are molded into bookshelves that display old family photos, antique-looking trinkets and memorabilia and the countless awards that Skinflints has received for its dedicated charity work over the years.  Bell and Gardella are passionate about giving back to the community and often host events at the restaurant.  They recently closed their doors on Easter to hold an event offering free meals and live entertainment to local senior citizens and do the same every Thanksgiving.  Skinflints is also involved in charity work with veterans, autistic children and underprivileged families, receiving the "Feed-A-Family" Restaurant Award in 2003.

              Aside from the stellar community service for which Skinflints is known,  its other claim to fame is obviously its delicious, yet affordable, menu.  Bell says that most customers are regulars and keep coming back for more, appreciating a well-prepared dish at a reasonable price.  Indeed, as Bell and I toured the dining area, one gentleman shouted his compliments to the chef, clearly pleased with his meal.  Another customer exclaimed, "Skinflints makes the bes chili!" referring to the enticing Chili Burger on the menu.

              I decided to taste two items that Bell recommended as top choices: the bacon cheeseburger and Bell's personal favorite, BBQ baby back ribs with mashed potatoes.  Both were outstanding!  The burger was made of thick and tender, freshly ground beef, charbroiled and served on an English muffin with a side of French fries.  I especially enjoyed the pleasantly light taste of the English muffin to the standard burger bun.  As tasty as the burger was, the ribs were even better.  Slow-cooked for 6 hours in their homemade sauce, the tenderized meat gracefully fell off the bone when tugged gently by my fork.  Delighted that I did not have to engage in rib warfare in order to get the meat off its bone, I was able to indulge in the succulent baby back ribs and yummy mashed potatoes with ease.  The burger rang up at a modest $7.50 while the ribs will cost you $16.25 - - - and worth every penny!

              Skinflints has quite a bit of variety on its menu, including 12 kinds of burgers, soups and salads, chicken dishes like Chicken Marsala and seafood dishes like Sole Francaise and Shrimp Scampi.  The restaurant also features nightly dinner specials, so you're sure to find something to savor.  Rooms are available for private parties, so gather up your friends and family, and head over to Skinflints for a wholesome and memorable dining experience at this almost century-old establishment. 

Mejlander & Mulgannon

There are roughly 3,700 miles separating Bay Ridge from the Scandinavian countries of Norway and Sweden. That's quite a distance to travel for some traditional Swedish meatballs or Norwegian sjokolade (that's tasty Norwegian chocolate, by the way). If your frequent flier miles aren't quite up to the challenge, how about a trip to Mejlander & Mulgannon Delicatessen and Caterers instead?

Mejlander & Mulgannon, located at 7615 Fifth Avenue, carry a full line of products from Norway, Sweden, Ireland, and Scotland, imported bi-weekly. Some of their more popular items are famous Swedish meatballs or köttbullar, fish cakes, and canned herring. For a sweeter taste, they also sell Swedish pancake mix, lingonberry preserves, and a variety of sjokolade like Firkløver, a Norwegian milk chocolate and hazelnut bar, and Gullbrød, made with chocolate and marzipan. They also sell Ireland's most popular soft drink, an orange soda with real orange bits called Club.

Mejlander & Mulgannon is also a full-service delicatessen with a barstool clad eat-in area, a take-out/delivery service, and even curbside delivery. That's right, you can place your order and then call from your car when you arrive and they will actually bring the order out to you - how's that for service!  Their deli counter is stocked with only the best Boar's Head meat and cheese products like pastrami and honey maple turkey and fresh made salads like their tuna and egg salad. Their combo sandwiches are known by number and name, like the famous #17 - "The Cardiac Arrest" (roast beef with melted mozzarella and bacon on toasted garlic bread) or  #14 - "Hootsie" (Virginia ham and smoked gouda cheese on a toasted bagel with butter). I decided to taste #2 - "M&M's Favorite" and was not disappointed. A chicken cutlet with bacon and melted Swiss topped with a tangy barbeque sauce on a hero was a hearty way to start my afternoon!

Mejlander & Mulgannon's daily hot buffet offers a nice alternative to the cold deli sandwich with specials ranging from eggplant parmagiana to Swedish meatballs to a dish affectionately called "mom's chili." A hot buffet dish costs only $9 for a sizeable portion and includes a choice of vegetables, potatoes or rice on the side.

If you're in a hurry, Mejlander & Mulgannon's "On the Run" Salad & Wrap Bar offers pre-made gourmet wrap sandwiches and fresh garden salads. Or, simply opt for their free delivery service offered Monday through Friday, 8AM to 5PM. Breakfast delivery is especially popular at M&M's and features fresh-off-the-skillet omelets, egg sandwiches, pancakes, waffles, and more - delivered right to your home or office.

Another service they deliver? An entire BBQ party, straight to your backyard. M&M's Big BBQ is a catering service bringing the grill, the food, and the chef to your graduation party, communion, family reunion or beach picnic. They take care of the appetizers, entrees, desserts and beverages so all that's left for you to do is to eat, drink, and be merry!

Aside from their BBQ bonanza, Mejlander & Mulgannon has a full personal, corporate and elegant catering menu, with consideration for charitable organizations and fundraising events. From continental breakfast buffets to 6-foot long Super Heroes (no, not the Batman kind) to Italian antipasto platters, M&M's will have your guests happily feasting. For more information and free delivery, call (718) 238-6666 or check out their website at www.mulgannon.com.

A & S Variety

            Everyone loves a good bargain, especially in these rough economic times, and no one knows this better than Eli Seman, owner of A & S Variety. A & S, a men's clothing boutique located at 7407 Fifth Avenue, offers closeout savings on virtually all wardrobe essentials, from undergarments to dress shirts and ties to gym shorts and sweatshirts. With clearance prices as low as 99 cents, A & S is a "must stop spot" for those of us trying to stretch our dollar.

            Seman opened A & S Variety about 10 years ago and has enjoyed a loyal and steady clientele due to his great customer service and competitive pricing.  He orders wholesale from reliable vendors and uses a flexible pricing system, which means leaving room for price adjustments on certain items.  "If you are buying three items and want a price break, just ask," says John, a manager at A & S.  Being negotiable and offering personalized customer service definitely helps this small business stay strong despite having retail giant Century 21 just down the avenue.

            Another key to their success? Designer fashions at super discount prices! A & S carries a great selection of popular men's clothing brands such as Calvin Klein, Kenneth Cole, Nautica, and Levi's. If you're looking for exercise wear, they currently have Reebok DryFit t-shirts for a remarkable $6.99 and Champion running jackets for $9.99. Another brand widely available is Marquis, a maker of stylish men's polo shirts, dressy button down shirts, and high quality t-shirts. Marquis also makes the hip denim line MARQ 75, which A & S carries in a variety of colors and styles. Most of their shirt sizes range from small to XL (with larger sizes available) and pant sizes range from 30 to 52.

            A & S also stock their shelves with everyday essentials like designer socks and underwear (Calvin Klein Boxer Briefs are only $7.99), belts, ties, and baseball caps. They even have leather wallets by Perry Ellis and Joseph Abboud for the unbeatable price of $14.99. Since new items are continuously added, A & S moves many current items to their Close-Out Rack, the place where you can find t-shirts and pants for prices like 99 cents apiece! With prices like these, it is impossible to walk in and NOT find a bargain.

            As the fall and winter seasons approach, A & S will once again be brimming with men's designer sweaters, coats, and leather jackets. They make sure to order designs appropriate for all ages, from the young college-bound man to the many retired locals in our neighborhood and the "everyman" in between. So, if you need to update your outdated closet or just stock up on the basics (and still stick to a budget), check out A & S Variety for a steal of a deal!     

Bean Post Pub

Feels Like Home

              The word "pub" is derived from the British "public house", an establishment licensed to sell alcoholic beverages, as well as provide food and entertainment.  But as the the term "public house" implies, a pub is often much more to its patrons than just a place to grab a beer; it's more like a home away from home.  As such, it's no wonder that the cozy Bean Post Pub, located at 7525 Fifth Avenue, has become the local favorite of many in the Bay Ridge community.

              Although open since 1982, the Bean Post Pub has been through quite a few transformations over the past few years under current owner Anthony LoPorto.  LoPorto has his own long history with the pub, starting out as a bartender in 1994 and eventually purchasing the Bean Post eight years later in November of 2002.  While making sure that the pub retained its original charm, LoPorto made a few necessary adjustments and upgrades, giving the Bean Post its new slogan: "Same As Always, Better Than Ever!"

              One of his first changes was removing the rickety computerized liquor system and adding bottled beef -- that's right, the original pub only had beer on draft.  Now the Bean Post proudly boasts more than 60 types of bottled beer, including many specialty beers like De Koninck, Duvel, Chimay and Leffe.  It also has 21 draft lines with four rotating seasonally drafts, currently lined up to feature Samuel Adams Octoberfest, Beck's Oktoberfest, Southern Tier's Pumking and Victory Brewing's Moonglow.  If liquor is more to your liking, the Bean Post has more than 40 varieties of vodka, including local favorites like Grey Goose and Ketle One. 

              Since no drink is complete without something to snack on, LoPorto reopened the kitchen, which had been closed under past ownership, and added a full bar menu.  The Bean Post menu must-haves include homemade buffalo wings, mozzarella sticks and the famous mini burgers made with 100% sirloin and affectionately dubbed "coasters".  The pub also has entrees like honey dijon chicken, shrimp scampi, chicken parmigiana and an assortment of burgers, sandwiches and salads. 

              LoPorto also made some major technology upgrades, adding 12 flat screen TVs to give customers plenty of options when it comes to watching their favorite sports teams or catching the latest news.  The new digital jukebox has more that 250 albums to choose from and even more that customers can download straight from the Internet.  And if you're in the mood for some fun, there are arcade games that feature bowling, golf and hunting, as well as traditional dart board hanging in the back.  On Fridays and Saturdays, enjoy a terrific selection of music from one of four rotating DJs, meaning you won't hear the same guy playing the same tunes every weekend.

              As for ambiance, the Bean Post is cozy and incredibly clean, with plenty of seating both at the bar and around the pub.  Extra-large green leather barstools are another new addition and, boy, are they comfy!  French doors make up the front and corner of the pub and, weather permitting, are opened every Friday evening, allowing a cool breeze to circulate.  The pub fits roughly 100 people comfortably and even offers in-house catering and a DJ, so if you are looking for a fun place to host your next party, the Bean Post can really make your celebration one of a kind.

              However, you don't have to wait for a party to enjoy the Bean Post.  Stop by anytime for an ice-cold beer, delicious food and great company at your soon- to-be-favorite home away from home.

Enchanted Florist

Get Enchanted on Fifth Avenue

              In a time where many things are being replaced by "better" or "more efficient" manmade replicas, there is still nothing artificial that can substitute for a fresh bouquet of sweet smelling flowers.  This is probably one reason that Nester Andrianos, owner of Enchanted Florist located at 7515 Fifth Avenue, has been able to stay in business for almost 16 years.  The other reasons?  Exceptional customer service and prices that haven't budged since he opened his shop in 1993.

              Enchanted Florist is a cozy little shop with plenty of cheerful plants, a rainbow of colorful flowers, and tons of charm behind its delightful green and white awning.  They are a full-service florist which means they cover the whole flower/plant spectrum from wedding and sympathy arrangements to contemporary arrangements to green and flowering plants.  They also carry a large assortment of fruit baskets, gourmet baskets, children's candy baskets and balloons.  What's a better way to say thank you to a friend than with a bouquet of bright yellow sunflowers and a Healthy Gourmet Basket filled with delicious fruit, whole wheat crackers, and all natural juice?  Or a dozen red roses accompanied by a Gourmet Picnic Basket containing fresh fruit, cheese, nuts, and crackers to woo that special someone in your life?  If you can dream it, Enchanted Florist can make it happen!

              If you're looking for something with a little more longevity, how about a potted green or flowering plant that will bring joy to any budding horticulturist for years to come.  Enchanted Florist provide a range of plants from the simple pothos to their Azalea Attraction Garden Basket featuring hot pink azalea, dieffenbachia, spathiphyllum, and nephthytis ivy plants that arrive in a handled basket.  And don't worry about pronouncing the tongue-twistin names correctly in order to enjoy the beauty of these lovely plants.  In fact, if you have a specific question or need some tips, Andrianos is the pro with the know-how.

              His recommendation for those of us who are green-thumb challenged is to try a houseplant that is relatively unfussy such as the spathiphyllum, commonly known as the peace lily, which he says "is pretty hard to kill."  This plant, native to tropical regions of the Americas and southeastern Asia, doesn't require a lot of sunlight, enjoys room temperature, and only needs to be watered once or twice a week.  Other simple plants to try are the philodendron (a trailing plant which can grow up to 15 feet or longer), the rubber tree, and the lucky bamboo which is said to bring luck and fortune to those who receive them as gifts.

              For the upcoming holiday season,  Enchanted Florist is offering its usual pre-decorated trees and poinsettias, as well as an in-home holiday decorating service.  They also offer spring and fall cleanup services as well as simple landscaping that includes trimming bushes and putting down grass.  And if you're having an autumn wedding, Enchanted Florist has a variety of beautiful bouquets, boutonnieres, and centerpieces to make your special day warm and bright.

              Visit Enchantmentflorist.com for a complete look at all their plant and floral arrangements, including wedding pieces, corporate gifts, and even Halloween-themed flowers.  Delivery is free for the immediate neighborhood and a reasonable $5 to other parts of Brooklyn.  And for the happiness that a plant or flower will bring . . . priceless!

Sam's 5th Avenue Liquidation II

Sam's 5th Avenue Liquidation II, located at 7712 Fifth Avenue, is one of two shops owned by Sam Alwarrad.

              What's better than finding one glowing gem of a store hidden behind an unassuming storefront?  How about finding two of them!  As writer of this column for almost a year, I have spent a lot of time frequenting Fifth Avenue looking for the next best thing for me to shine my spotlight on.

              Amazingly, I had always walked by Sam 5th Avenue Liquidation, a women's clothing and accessory shop located at 7617 Fifth Avenue, with no more than a passing glance.  The modest red, white and blue awning with simple, clean lettering never really caught my eye until this weekend, when I noticed there was a duplicate awning located only a block away.  This happened to be Sam 5th Avenue Liquidation II, the fraternal twin to the women's store, selling men's clothing, housewares and gift items.  I decided this was worth some investigating!

              I entered the second store first, located at 7712 Fifth Avenue, and was lucky to be greeted by owner Sami Alwarrad.  Alwarrad explained that he had opened the first Liquidation approximately 10 years ago and, with some success under his belt, was able to open Liquidation II in 2007.  The difference between this outlet store and others is that Alwarrad stocks his shelves with merchandise exclusively from five star department stores.  He also manages to cut prices so deep that most items are 80 percent off the original department store price.  This is cheaper than discount giant Century 21, which boasts savings of only 40 to 70 percent on its website.

              Browsing Liquidation II, I was more than pleasantly surprised by the positive quality to cost ratio of the items on sale.  In fact, while scribbling my usual inventory notes for the purpose of this article, I found myself wanting to purchase most of the items I came across!  Martha Stewart stainless steel cookware starting at $14, a Bella Cucina Rocket Blender for only $20, a DeLonghi Toaster Oven/Rotisserie for $40!  And let me not get started on women's shoes.  Nine West, Guess, Etienne Aigner, Via Spiga and BCBG boots for $40 a pair, Cole Haan for $45 and Coach boots, retailing at $478, are only $140 at Liquidation II.

              As for the men's items, there are Calvin Klein, Ralph Lauren, and Alfani sport coats and winter coats, Kenneth Cole shoes and Charter Club polo shirts for only $12.

              After compiling my own personal shopping list at Liquidation II (I'm going back for that toaster oven!), I made my way over to 7617, the women's store.  Here I found evening/prom dresses by Jessica McClintock and Laundry by Shelli Segal starting $27, Coach and Marc Jacobs handbags starting at $69 and designer women's winter coats from $55 and up.  The racks were also stocked with women's designer jeans, business attire and even intimates.  I couldn't believe my eyes.  Alwarrad had mentioned that one piece at a department store equals four to five pieces at his store and he wasn't lying --- the prices are indeed remarkably low.  With the holidays coming up in only a few short months, I know exactly where I'll be heading to fill up the space under my Christmas tree!  See you there, savvy shoppers!

 Le Sajj     

8221 Fifth Avenue  

              On a rainy Thursday, I headed over to Le Sajj on Fifth between 82^nd and 83^rd Streets.  Like a good reporter I’ve checked out the website.  I find out that it is a family-owned and operated restaurant with over 65 years' experience.  I am already intrigued by the painting of two older women making bread as well as the review from Citysearch review, which reads “Authentic, mouth watering and fresh Lebanese cuisine, hospitality and ambiance.” 

              At La Sajj I am greeted warmly by Marwan Dagher, the owner, and ushered past his lunch guests to a table near the bar where we sit to talk.   I wait while he checks on his guests.  Marwan clearly enjoys personally delivering the food from the kitchen and the interaction with diners.  An indication the reviews about Le Sajj’s hospitality were clearly on point.

             The painting from the website was directly behind me so it seemed like a good place to start.  These women are Marwan’s mother and grandmother, and the painting is a replication of a photo he took of them making traditional Lebanese bread.  The word “Sajj” refers to both the baking of Lebanese flatbread and the iron tool used for baking it.  This time-honored tradition, along with many other elements of Lebanese family heritage, is infused into the food at this restaurant.

              The fragrant, made-to-order, ample portions that emerge from the kitchen are a combination of specialties from Marwan’s family and the skilled Lebanese chef Michllane who adds her own experience and exquisite taste to the cuisine at Le Sajj.  There are over 20 entrees and appetizers to choose from, though when pressed to select one of each to recommend, Marwan swears by the Sajj Cheese Rolls (hand-rolled and stuffed with three cheeses) and Le Sajj Combination (a sampling of their charcoal-grilled best).

              The genuine Lebanese food is complimented by live entertainment.  Friday and Saturday nights the restaurant is full to its 80-person capacity and diners enjoy musicians and singers performing a variety of Lebanese music styles including the traditional Dabke, one of the most popular Arabic folk dances.

              In tough economic times, I can’t help but ask a restaurateur what it is like being in the restaurant business now, how they got there, and how they plan to survive.   Le Sajj has been open for four years and has a steady flow of customers from Brooklyn and a large following from Manhattan.   Marwan was born and raised in Bay Ridge, is committed to the community and works daily to apply his 20+ years of restaurant experience to La Sajj.  When I asked for the keys to his success, he replies “Experience, hospitality, generous and high quality food.  I don’t mind working in the kitchen, serving the food to the guests and I love being out in the community talking to people all the time.”

              Le Sajj is open Sunday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, 12 p.m. – 11 p.m., and Friday and Saturday, 12 p.m. – 4 a.m.  For more information about La Sajj visit www.lesajj.com.  For private parties and reservations (recommended for Friday and Saturday), call 718-833-7255. 

--Rosalie Drago, November 2009

 Hookahnuts     

7214 Fifth Avenue  

             With a name like Hookahnuts I was certain I already knew all I needed to know about the store on Fifth Avenue between 72^nd and 73^rd  Streets.  They must just sell hookahs and a few nuts – right? What an understatement!  Hookahnuts has imported chocolate, special occasion favors, gifts, ice cream,  hookahs, flavored tobacco and, of course,  nuts.

            Hookahnuts is owned by two sisters and Bay Ridge residents, Doha Khaled and Sabah Jammal.    Their family has made chocolates and other specialty items for generations.  Sabah’s husband has spent years in the import and export business.   Together, the two sisters and their husbands run the business.

              I met co-owner Ms. Doha Khaled at the back of the store for this interview and so had the opportunity to see everything on my way back to meet her.  Before hookahs or nuts come into view, the first items to grab a customer’s attention are beautiful, hand-carved wood boxes and religious items.  These items, bearing the craftsmanship and design from artisans in India, Syria and Lebanon along with the painted ornate tea sets on the following display make striking gifts.

             Regarding nuts, the store features over 25 varieties.  Patrons can choose from an array of natural dried fruit from common items like figs, apricots, raisins or cranberries to more- difficult-to-find options like guava and mango.  Above the nuts are a row of gift baskets, made to order for the holidays – Hookahnuts is one of very few local stores who make custom food gift baskets. 

           The most delightful surprise is the imported chocolates and candies in unique, brilliantly colored and intricate patterned wrapping.   These delicacies are made by Doha’s family in Lebanon and the designs (anything from fuzzy bears and babies to elegant gold leaves and butterflies) make these perfect for wedding or baby occasion favors. 

             When I asked Doha about the origins of this joint venture she said, “We wanted to have a family business using our abilities.  We bring over 30 years of knowledge and relationships which allow us to import the best quality items and offer them to the neighborhood in one location.”

             Current customers include locals as well as people visiting from Manhattan, Long Island and New Jersey.  What must a first-time customer try? “Definitely the custom chocolates,” said Doha. “And, of course, we have hookahs, over 50 designs with a generous selection of accessories, a large assortment of flavored tobacco and alcohol free perfumes.”

             How has business been as Hookahnuts? “This is a time of gift giving.  For the holidays we get many orders from doctor’s offices and businesses for baskets.  For Muslim people, it is a time when it is customary to visit people returning from pilgrimage and bring them gifts too.  We are busy now.”

             The key to their success? “We are committed to making our customers happy and believe in our quality.  We give people samples so they can try our product and they walk away with a good experience.”

              The shelves are stocked so there is still time to get your holiday gift at Hookahnuts.  Hookahnuts is located at 7214 Fifth Avenue.  Hours of operation are 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.,  7 days a week.  Orders can be placed in the store or by phone 718-833-5252 or email hookahnuts@gmail.com.

--Rosalie Drago, December 2009

Bay Ridge Animal Hospital

               The Bay Ridge Animal Hospital has stood on Fifth Avenue for 65 years, yet there is not an inkling of anything old at the stunning renovated facilities.  The building, from pavement to rooftop, is dedicated to comprehensive care of our canine and feline friends.  What is behind the new façade?  Open and inviting reception area.  Pristine exam room, dental suite and hospital wards.  Bright and spacious surgical suite.  In short, everything necessary to make it a premier, private, small animal hospital in New York City.

                “I was a theater major in college, dabbled in photography, but my love for animals drove me to go to veterinary school,” said Dr. Howard Hollander in a recent interview. “When I graduated, I went to work for the Animal Hospital of Brooklyn and soon found myself the Director of their Bay Ridge hospital.  After several years there, I purchased the Bay Ridge Animal Hospital and my brother, Paul Hollander, joined me a short time after.”

               Thirty years later, the Bay Ridge Animal Hospital, an AAHA (American Animal Hospital Association) member, has five experienced doctors on staff and transformed the space on Fifth Avenue.  The practice has evolved from a 3,000-square-foot hospital into a 6,000- square-foot ultra-modern facility with state-of-the-art dental and general surgery suites.  This enables Dr. Hollander’s team to handle everything from routine exams to life-saving surgery in house.    They have also cultivated a well-trained and devoted staff which gears itself towards preventative medicine as well as providing guidance for owners about proper animal care. 

                  Pet owners travel from all over to receive care from Bay Ridge Animal Hospital, but the heart of the practice is still local Bay Ridge and Bensonhurst residents. “I have worked in Bay Ridge my entire career and love our clientele,” said Dr. Hollander.

                  Bay Ridge Animal Hospital also features boarding.   This area includes kennels and kitty condos as well as cageless runs for dogs.  What is a kitty condo you ask?  Why not stop by for a tour and find out for yourself!

                    A wall covered with pictures of animals all shapes and sizes and thank you notes prompt me to as ask what makes Bay Ridge Animal Hospital so successful.  “We not only treat our patients but are very attentive to the owners needs,” says Hollander.  

                  Bay Ridge Animal Hospital is located at 6803 Fifth Avenue.  They are open for business 7 days a week, Mondays thru Fridays, from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.,  Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Sundays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., by appointment.  You can reach Dr. Hollander and his team at 718-748-1047, or visit them online at www.bayridgeanimalhospital.net.

--Rosalie Drago, March 2010

Bikram Yoga Bay Ridge

                  What’s hot on Fifth Avenue you ask?  A lot, of course.  Though for the sake of this Spotlight on Fifth feature I decided to focus my energy a little and take a look at Bikram Yoga Bay Ridge.

                  There are several terrific options for those who practice yoga in Bay Ridge though the appearance of Bikram Yoga, a special kind of yoga practice, says a lot about the dedication to this great form of exercise. 

                 Bikram Yoga is also known as “hot yoga.”  Each class is 90 minutes long and takes place in a well-heated room.  The heat in the yoga room provides many benefits, including safely allowing for deeper stretching, detoxing the body and increasing heart rate for better cardiovascular workout.  The nature of the classes makes it open to beginners as well as seasoned practitioners – the warmth (of the room and the teacher!) ensures even the self-described inflexible people can engage in the yoga poses.

                 Owner and native Brooklynite Nancy Commings fell in love with Bikram Yoga when she was working as a math teacher.  “You know the kid who is excused from running in every gym class? That was me!“ Nancy recalls.  “I have had asthma and severe allergies my whole life.   I was dependent on medications and used my illnesses as an excuse to avoid exercise,” she continued.  “A friend of mine introduced me to Bikram Yoga as a way of reducing stress.  Before I knew it, I realized that my yoga class was the best part of my day and I decided to go to the teacher training to become a Bikram yoga teacher.” She continues, “After five years of practicing this yoga, I feel like I have a new set of lungs in my body. I have learned how to control my breathing ...I rarely take a puff of my inhaler. I don't take any more allergy medication. It's amazing.”

                As someone who does do yoga regularly, hot yoga can seem daunting at first.  I had all the classic fears: I was afraid I wouldn’t be able to breath in the heated room, that it would be too difficult, and that I would feel drained.  Bikram yoga is definitely challenging and requires dedication but it is well worth it.  Contrary to my concerns, when I stepped out of a Bikram Yoga class I felt healthier, breathed easier, was relived of body aches and felt as though you I could surmount any challenge.

              When I asked Nancy what we should tell people about the benefits of hot yoga, she had this to say: “There are unlimited benefits to practicing Bikram yoga. If you come in and work hard and develop a consistent practice, anything is possible.  Bikram says, use your 'Bulldog determination and Bengal tiger strength.'"   Let me assure you, if you think you don’t have it, no problem.  Nancy’s yoga classes will help you develop it!  

             The studio, on the corner of Fifth and 83^rd Street is a welcoming, clean and judgment-free space to learn or practice yoga.  Nancy clearly loves being a small business owner, delighting in all the aspects of running a business here in Bay Ridge – from greeting clients at the front desk to teaching class.  “Bay Ridge is my new home. I love the community in general and the truly wonderful little community that has developed here at Bikram Yoga Bay Ridge over the past year”.

              Bikram Yoga Bay Ridge has an introductory offer: $20 for your first week of unlimited yoga. No experience necessary. Just pick a good class time and arrive 20 minutes early to get started.  The studio is located at 8302 Fifth Avenue.  For more information visit www.bikrambayridge.com, call 718-833-9200 or email info@bikrambayridge.com .

--Rosalie Drago, March 2010

Kruchkow's Shoe Store

                  You are doing something right if you are in business for over 100 years, especially when other stores are opening and closing all around you.  So, of course, I was interested in speaking to Seth Kruchkow,  owner of Kruchkow’s Shoe Shop, to find out what the secret is.

                 As I was walking into Kruchkow’s, a waitress was rushing out with a box of shoes in her hand to take her shift on the floor of a Third Avenue restaurant.  This is, after all, Bay Ridge’s official home of the comfortable shoe.

                I’m greeted by John and Frank who are strategically placed at the front of the store to greet and help customers.  John has worked here for six years. Frank’s been in shoes since he was 14.  He is 79 years old now.  You can do the math. “I was born in a shoe store!” says Frank. “Well, across the street from one.”   Rest assured, this place has expertise in selecting the right shoe for you. 

               When I ask for Seth, I’m told he’s in the back.  Kruchkow’s is like a library of shoes, with shelves upon shelves filled with special soles -  complete with rolling ladder.   I stride past brand names shoes like Easy Spirit, Spring Step, Fly Flot, Trotters and Florsheim stacked neatly to the ceiling around the store.

               Sure enough, at the back of the store, Seth is seated behind a lone desk from which he can survey the landscape and call out to well-known customers.  Pictures of his wife Debra and son Adam line the shelf behind him.

               Kruchkow’s Shoe Shop has been in business for 103 years to be exact.  The business was started by Seth’s grandfather in 1907, a time when there were 15 independently-owned shoe stores in the area and nothing existed beyond 86^th Street.  Seth graduated from college with a degree in Biology and possessed a skill for writing comics.  While he pursued his comic-writing career (yes, he did some work for Marvel) he worked in the store.  Seth came to the store full time in 1976.

               So how has this business survived?  Seth waves a hand at the row of chairs where John and Frank are and that metal foot-measuring instrument.  (It’s called a Brannock Device!) “We take our time with customers.  We watch them walk.  We pay attention to little details.  We spend time with them to pick the right pair of shoes” Seth replies.  A customer, being waited on hand and foot shouts out, “I always come here to buy one pair of shoes and I always leave with two!”

             “Fifth Avenue has been good to us,” shares Seth. “There are a lot of repeat customers and the people in Bay Ridge give back to the community.”

              When I inquire about the challenges Kruchkow’s faces today, Seth answers earnestly. “Most big manufacturers don’t want to deal with the little, independent retailer.  They prefer the big-box stores and so selection of items decreases when you get to our size business.”  Kruchkow’s continued success though would indicate the assortment of shoes seems perfect for their loyal customers.

              They carry everything for the special needs shoe shopper: wide widths, extra comfort and a variety of specialty shoes from Italy and Portugal.  Pssst -  Easy Spirit’s top- selling shoe in the US is on the shelves for less- than-catalogue price.

                Kruchkow's Shoe Shop is located at 7808 - 5th Avenue and is open Monday through Saturday 9:30 A.M. to 6 P.M.  You can reach the Kruchkow’s team by telephone at 718-745-3446.

--Rosalie Drago, May 2010

Expressions

                  Flags from the grand opening are still flapping in the wind above the sharply contrasting orange and black sign that reads “Expressions” on the day I go to visit.  As I approach I notice traditional Muslim dresses  - long, flowing robes with delicate embroidered necklines and sleeve cuffs - fill the large window on the right.  The left window frames a rack of summer dresses of varying lengths with bright colored halters and short sleeved tops, the likes of which you could see in any national retailer on 86^th Street.

                 The very first thing to be said upon entering is that owner Gihan Eldabbah has designed the space to be a welcoming shopping experience.  It is spacious, bright and uncluttered.  The tangerine colored walls are lined with crisp white shelves.  Displays are filled with leather handbags and wallets in the latest styles, jewelry, scarves and other accessories.  Dresses move easily along the racks.  Capri sets are displayed on the center table so you can see their every detail.  In other words, there is room to shop in comfort.

                   Mrs. Eldabbah greets me with a genuine smile as I approach the register.  She  teaches second grade in Brooklyn so I’m wondering how she came to open Expressions.  “I didn’t plan on this specific business”, Gihan says modestly.  “I have always been business minded, I always wanted to own a business.”  She frequently called to check on lease prices when a store was vacant until she found one she liked.  The right spot became available and Gihan opened up Expressions on May 7^th.

                  It is clear that Gihan has invested in the business and takes it seriously.  The professional storefront, the way she has carefully merchandised the items she sells and the generous amount of time she devotes to each customer are a testimony to this.  There is something else she is committed to, something perhaps more important which is reflected in the store’s name.  “I wanted to have a store for every women in the neighborhood,” she explains. “Expressions of different woman and different cultures coming together.”  She gets a serious yet deeply warm look when she adds, “We learn from each other and are stronger when we come together.”

                 True to her word, the promotional postcards are written in English on one side and Arabic on the other, and Gihan is achieving her goal.  In the brief time I visited several young women came in to explore summer dresses and wallets,  a mother and daughter were purchasing Muslim dresses in the back and a very seasoned woman come in to investigate the handbags (she remarked that she was pleasantly surprised).  Clothing and accessories are priced affordably – the beautiful handbags start at $35.

                What does she love best about running her business?  Her eyes light up when she responds, “I love getting to know people.”

                You can visit Expressions at 7207 Fifth Avenue and can call 718-680-0650 for updated hours of operation and any questions.

-Rosalie Drago, May 2010

Bay Ridge Bakery

                  The minute I pull open the door to Bay Ridge Bakery I’m beckoned by the sweet aroma of fresh baked goods.  I can’t pick out any particular item – it could be the soft center of a French pastry out of the oven or a moist middle of a layer cake.  It is impossible to be sure as the curved display case is filled with mini pastries, sculptured chocolates, and cookies.  The shelves and tables are covered with French, Italian, Greek, and American pastries, breads and pies.

                  I’m standing in front of a field of Paximathia (Greek biscotti) waiting for owner, Nick Nikolopoulos.  Ahead of me, the proprietor of a local Greek restaurant is ordering pastries for his establishment.  You know those irresistible cakes spinning in the glass carousel at the diner?  Well, they make them here!  Bay Ridge Bakery has a robust wholesale business.  In the restaurant and diner world they are one of the main suppliers of a full-line of cakes and pastries across the tri-state area.   

                 The work that is done here is a fine fusion of time-honored tradition and modern culinary training.  In 1974, John Nikolopoulos opened Bay Ridge Bakery and brought 30 years of experience in the pastry arts in Europe and his work as a top pastry chef in New York to Fifth Avenue.  His son, Nick, worked alongside him and then studied at the French Culinary Institute, graduating with honors.  Together, this father-and-son team invest their considerable experience and their passion into developing their recipes.  The tasty results are evident from the tiniest cookie to the tallest fantasy wedding cake.  “To see an idea come to life from basic resources is an amazing process,” Nick says.

               This is a true family business.  Wife and mother, Peggy, can always be found in the kitchen working side by side with her husband and son, and their employees.  Nick makes all the high-end cakes, especially wedding cakes and delivers them personally. 

              What are some of their specialties?  Carrot cake and fruit tarts are the favorite among the regulars.  The most elaborate cakes?  According to Nick, “A Cinderella wedding cake, an Arabian-themed three-tiered pillow cake and the gold hat that the archbishop of the orthodox religion wears.”

             My visit takes place on a hot weekday afternoon and the phones are ringing off the hook.  What has helped this business remain so popular?                                                              

            “Trying to keep our pricing at an affordable and competitive level while all of our supplies keep going up in price.  Through all the economic highs and lows, we have never decreased our quality just to save on costs. Our customers come to us because they want the ‘jewelry’ of cakes or pastries.”  He continues, “We are not an ‘overnight’ business. Our longevity in our business allows us to soak in some of the costs and not pass it on to our customers. Although we make less per product than what we used to, we sell more products by keeping the costs down where we can.”

            Nick was born and raised here in the neighborhood.  He currently lives in Dyker Heights with his wife, Eve, and their three boys; John, Chris, and Peter.  "I love this place,” he conveys with genuine joy.  “I have a picture of myself in front of a cake display when I was 4 years old and it is still hanging in the store.  Bay Ridge is multi-cultural and full of life. I want everyone who comes here to feel like our personal guest.”

            You can see their stunning wedding cakes in the Cake Gallery on their website. Bay Ridge Bakery, located at 7805 - 5th Avenue, is open Monday through Saturday, 9:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.  Visit them online at www.bayridgebakery.com or call 718-238-0014.

-Rosalie Drago, June 2010

Shiprite

           Though the store name is Shiprite, what is offered inside this store at 7304 5th Avenue goes way beyond shipping.  In fact, after spending a bit of time there, it seems like you can get anything you want done there.

             Signs swaying overhead announce copying, faxing and notary services. You can get rubber stamps and business cards made.  Need an extra set of keys?  Get them while you wait.  Looking to rent a mail box?  They have small, medium and large mailboxes ($9, $13 and $20 per month, respectively).  You can pay bills at Shiprite and get your documents laminated.

             Three mysterious closets as you enter house the package drop-off space.  Ever miss a package because you weren’t home to answer the door?  Well, you don’t have to.  Have your parcels sent to Shiprite and they will store it in their secure area for you.

             I can’t wait to meet the jack-of-all-trades behind this one-stop shop.  Owner, Ecliffe Simon, is deep in conversation with someone when I arrive.   I apologize for interrupting his conversation with a customer.  “He’s not a customer, he’s a guy from the neighborhood who comes in to talk.  I’ve been here 15 years – I have a lot of people who just come in to visit me.” 

            Seeing the same people over and over again is one of the reasons Ecliffe opened a store on 5^th Avenue in Bay Ridge.  “I chose this location because of the stability in the neighborhood,”  he explains. “I did a lot of research before opening this business and looked at a lot of neighborhoods.  Bay Ridge is one of the most consistent over time.  I put every dime I saved into this business – I wasn’t going to risk it in some neighborhood that hadn’t proven itself.”

           Mr. Simon decided to open his own business after leaving Wall Street in 1993.  He studied his options – everything from glass repair to cleaning services.  Then he read an article in Entrepreneur Magazine which ranked this type of small business venture as the top ten most successful businesses to be in.  “It was perfect for me.  Something I could start right away by myself and grow into.  Now I have two employees and there are always two people at the counter.”

           Besides the sheer convenience in this one simple location where packaging, shipping and office needs are fulfilled, service and price are what keep people coming back.  According to Ecliffe “You tell us what you want to do and we’ll find a way to do it.  The competition can’t do it as efficiently or cost effectively as we can.  We don’t pay any royalties to a brand name so our cost structure isn’t as high.” 

          Mr. Simon is constantly improving and nurturing his business.  He just added a new service – shredding.  The shredding machine operates on the same principle as the car vacuum at the gas station - you pay for a set amount of time.  Only a few items?  Purchase a minute.  A whole box full of papers?  Purchase five minutes.   “Since it is self-serve, no one will look at your documents but you,” Ecliffe adds.

         Shiprite is located at 7304 Fifth Avenue and is open 9:30 a.m. – 6:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, and 9:30 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. on Saturdays.  You can contact the Shiprite team at 718-630-5655.

-Rosalie Drago, June 2010

Balady Halal Foods

           It must be delivery day at Balady Halal Foods and, for a market with such a grand variety and generous stock of items, this is quite a task.  The Balady brothers, Essa, Mosa, Ibraheam and Mohamed Masoud, are feverishly working to get their products inside. Carts stacked with sacs of grains are briskly maneuvered through the aisles while more people inside work to make room for the new items.  All the while another crew stands outside unloading pallets of even more morsels to come.

         Balady Halal Foods offers a wide variety of imported, as well as domestic, Mediterranean and Middle Eastern products.  They have, among other items,  a wide range of olives, cheeses, fresh bread, spices, sweets, grains, olive oils, specialty oils, housewares, ready-to-eat hummus, ready-mix and frozen falafel, frozen vegetables, Halal fresh meats include lamb, beef, chicken, veal; also full line of Halal cold cuts, fresh ground coffee and flavorings – oh, and they also have Western Union services.  Besides the sheer variety of quality imported items, the first thing noticed is that every item is available in family size. 

          They carry a variety of grains including couscous al belboula (barley couscous) and smeeda (semolina flour).   Nearby stands an olive station with a variety of olives as well as pastes – including a lovely and lively hot pepper paste.  Steps away you can find everything pickled.  Floating in gigantic jars and waiting to be added to your next delicious meal are  pickles, of course, but also beets, parsnips, eggplant, lupini beans and many more vegetables.  The spice section is a delightful mix of rich aromas.  You can find a unique blend of authentic flavors for a wide variety of recipes, for instance, some terrific gourmet recipes call for fenugreek (Hilba in the Middle East).  It can found here at Balady and it has some great healing properties, too. 

         The Balady brothers follow in their father’s footsteps.  Mahmoud Masoud began in the supermarket business in 1979, opening one of the first C-TOWN supermarkets in Brooklyn. After 30 years in the American grocery business, he and his 4 sons decided to enter the Middle Eastern/Mediterranean grocery business.  The family brings all their industry knowledge to this local market - years of experience in customer satisfaction, stocking, and weekly specials.

         The specials make this store, well, special - it makes good food accessible to all people.  Essa explains, “Our goal was to revolutionize and stimulate the market by establishing our premier store location as the place to shop for the cheapest prices with the freshness of our products and a clean shopping experience alongside optimal customer service.”

      Balady  is an Arabic word, meaning the endemic (uniquely linked) to an area.  The brothers were born, raised and currently live in Bay Ridge. “We are proud to be a part of this community and cater to their ever growing needs of fresh Halal meats and groceries.  Bay Ridge has become the center of Middle Easterners in Brooklyn looking to enjoy shopping, eating, and holding religious services. It’s my hometown (Balady) outside of the Middle East.”

       Did I mention Balady features fresh breads, also?  My personal favorite is the sweet date bread (called Tirsa in Arabic) – you can’t miss it, they’re on the counter on the way out. Balady Foods is located at 7128 Fifth Avenue.  You can reach them at 718-567-2252 or by emailing essa@baladymarket.com. 

-Rosalie Drago, June 2010

Havin' A Party

          Under normal circumstances, entering a business establishment to find shelves lined with heads would be a concerning sight.  Not so, though, at Havin' A Party.  The content costume craniums of Winnie the Pooh, Darth Vader, Popeye, Buzz Lightyear and Barney sit ear-to-ear waiting among hundreds of their friends to be called into duty for a birthday party or Halloween celebration.

         The kids’ costume section provides every imaginable option.  If defending the homefront is a priority, children can choose from a desert commando, the green army men of Toy Story, famous superheroes, Harry Potter or sword-swaying Zorro.  Every major trade is covered from doctor to construction worker.  The princess world is well-represented with something to stir the imagination with a single wave of the wand from ones tiara to ones toes.

           Speaking of stirring the imagination, Havin' A Party has a full complement of costumes and wigs for grownups that will spice up any gathering.  Gentlemen can have their choice from categories like Beast and Bloodsuckers, Cops and Robbers, Swashbucklers, and Super Heroes and Villains.  The ladies can dress up as a Film Favorite like Dorothy or Marilyn Monroe or they can choose from a host of other frolicsome frocks including Frisky Felon, Pirate Wench, Gangster Moll, Army Cadet, Lioness and much more. 

           Did I mention the accessories?  Everything you can think of (and many you wouldn’t have thought of) are hanging in here.  Spats, gold teeth, an inflatable boom box, a priest collar, and a ball and chain.  Tired of being an attractive, athletic hunk?  No worries!  There is a Nerd Kit complete with glasses with tape, a pocket pen protector and bowtie.   

          “We're Havin' A Party provides everything but the room, food and guests,” owner Marc Davis says proudly.  That includes characters, DJs, balloons, caricaturists, look-a-likes, rides and games as well as supplies like tables, chairs, decorations, plates, and cutlery.  Marc will make sure you have everything you need for your gathering.  He has been in business for over 17 years right in the same spot.  And why Bay Ridge?  “People are always having parties here.  It’s great.  I’ll help someone with their son’s 10^th birthday party and, before you know it, that kid grows up and I’m helping him with his own kid’s party.”

           When it comes to children’s parties, they have all the accoutrements for a themed event.   You can choose among classic (Winnie the Pooh) or current characters (Dora, Spongebob) and those that span the decades (Star Wars, Sesame Street, Batman).  You can even pick and pack the goodie bags here, too. 

          Fran, a loyal employee for the past six years tells me, “Marc is friendly and very pleasant to work with.  Party planning is stressful – he makes everything easy.”  Being the one-stop-shop for party-and-event needs (they have rolls of tickets AND those great big scissors for ribbon-cutting events) and being willing to go the extra mile is the key.  “I’ll open the shop during a time we are usually closed if you need us.  I’ll bring things out to the car if you can’t find parking,” said Marc. 

           We're Havin' A Party is located at 8414 Fifth Avenue.  You can learn more about them at www.brooklyncostumes.com.  You can also call 718-836-3701 or email brooklyncostumes@gmail.com
 to Friday 10:30

-Rosalie Drago, July 2010

Rocco's Pizzeria        

           I’ve been eating pizza since I had to stand on my tippy toes and hang by my fingertips to see the man at the counter.  Back then, pizza was just a large, round, plain pie.  I thought it was magical the way the “pizza man” tossed the dough high in the air, swirled the sauce (“gravy” in my family) around, effortlessly pitched mounds of mozzarella cheese across it and slid it in the oven.  I just couldn’t wait.

          At 38, there is still something fascinating and comforting about a pizza place…and Rocco’s pizza is no exception.  The Loccisano family has been making pizza since 1980 when Rocco Loccisano opened his shop.  His sons, Joseph and Danny, now run the place with the same talent and passion for pizza and Italian fare.  There are over 10 different types of pies on the menu.   Joe and Danny prepare both traditional style pizza and gourmet pizza. You can take in the delectable aroma as you gently break open a fresh baked, steaming calzone.  Or you can tuck in your napkin and prepare your knife and fork for a taste of made-to-order Italian favorites including Veal Marsala, Penne Vodka, Chicken Caesar Salad and fish – everything is prepared using special family recipes.   The daily specials are both delicious and dollar-wise. 

           The counter is teeming with customers.  People wearing everything from business suits to Baby Bjourn’s are waiting for a taste of Rocco’s great eats.  “We provide a level of service that is above the rest. The ingredients in our products are of the highest quality and it reflects in the end product,” Joe explains.  “Danny and I strive on keeping our products of the high standard that customers are accustomed to.”

             If you think the lines are impressive at the pizzeria, you should see them surrounding Rocco’s during the Fifth Avenue Festival.  Rocco’s is home of the official annual Brooklyn Pizza Eating Contest which is a festival feature.  The contest, which draws people from around the tri-state area, is the family’s way to thank the community with a celebration and also an event to raise much-needed funds for local charities.  The 2010 champion is “Furious Pete” Czerwinski – he ate 27 slices in 10 minutes!

            Pizza seems to be the one thing that is recession-proof around here.  “There are many challenges a small business faces in today’s climate. But we just try to follow the basic business principles that are foundation for our success. Our pizza and food taste fresh and good all the time. Customers like our service and the friendly atmosphere in our establishment,” says Joe.

             Well, they certainly have a recipe for success.  Come see for yourself.  You can even start practicing for next year’s pizza eating contest!  Rocco’s is located at 7818 5th Avenue and is open 11:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.  You can find out more at www.roccospizzaon5th.com or give them a call at (718)238-7658. to Friday 10:30

-Rosalie Drago, August 2010

    Sadam Ali Boxing & Fitness Center

           It is 8:18pm and a three-quarter full moon is rising in the night sky.  There is a very welcome cool breeze.  I am on my way to the Sadam Ali Boxing & Fitness Center on the corner of Bay Ridge Avenue and Fifth Avenue.  This is my first nighttime interview.  I’ve been missing out on Bay Ridge at night:  the streets are busy with a different kind of energy.  As I make my way there, I’m reminded of why I love living here.  One block has a group of guys playing Mariachi music with their families in the basement.  A few doors down Italian tunes float out a second-story window and then Egyptian music pours onto the street from a nearby café.  The whole world lives here, people from everywhere, and it is a beautiful thing.

            As I wait for the traffic light, an electronic message board above the center invites people to join the gym and promotes Sadam Ali’s next fight.  People of all ages are coming in and out.  The gym is owned by the boxer and his father, Mahmoud Ali.  Mahmoud, out in front, greets me warmly at the door and welcomes me inside.  “Come in, let's go downstairs and you can speak with Sadam.”

           This just became one of my most exciting interviews!  As a child my father would let me sit on the couch, squeezed between him and a gaggle of my Italian uncles while they watched “the fights.”  I loved the way they screamed and yelled, leaped up off the couch, shook their fists at the television, vehemently told the fighters which punches to throw and cheered on their favorites.  Now I was going to meet a professional boxer right here in Bay Ridge?  All of a sudden I became nervous.

           We head down the stairs to the brightly-lit gym.  Each heavy bag, the ring and every piece of equipment are occupied.  People of all ages are here – though a majority are young.  Sadam Ali steps out of the ring and joins me on a folding chair for the interview. 

He’s 21, born in Brooklyn.  The lean welterweight looks like the guy standing next to you on line at the supermarket – but he’s no regular Joe.   In 2007 he became the first boxer from New Your City to win an Olympic Trial since Riddick Bowe in 1988.  During the 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing he became the sole American lightweight permitted to compete in three Olympic qualification tournaments and is the first Arab American to represent the country in the Olympics.

 And now, he is here in Bay Ridge, right on Fifth Avenue, where he and his personal team of trainers can teach you how to box like a pro – or if you prefer – get in shape like a pro boxer.

“I started boxing when I was eight,” Ali begins. “I admired Prince Naseem Hamad.  My father would take me everywhere to find a gym and train every day.  It was hard to find a good gym.  I always knew I would open a gym so kids could have a good place to train.”  He continues, “I’ve been through it all.  I know what to teach them, what mistakes they should avoid.  I train them personally – me and my coaching team.”

And he’s not kidding.  Three of the superstar coaching team are there during the interview:  Andre Rozier (trainer to Joe Greene, Danny Jacobs, Curtis Stevens and Gary Stark Jr. and designer of boxing apparel) , Sharif Younam (credited with reviving Paulie Malignaggi’s career ) and Lenny B. Wilson.  Sure enough they are working one on one with the members.  They even have a closed-circuit TV to monitor their charges when they have to go leave the training floor for a minute – calling out corrections from the other room.

So what is the essence of the training at Sadam Ali’s Boxing and Fitness Center?  His father explains, “Usually people learn from one coach.  At a traditional boxing gym people pay a membership fee and then people pay for one coach to train them.  Here membership includes training from four coaches.” He continues, “When Sadam enters the ring, he has tools from four different styles of boxing to use.  He can put them together so he can adapt quickly to any challenge.”

This gym, this business, goes beyond just building strength and speed – they build character, too.  “Many children come here.  They stand out on the street.  We invite them in.  Often, their parents can’t afford a membership.  We are looking for a way to create a program to train them.  It is good for them.  The kids that stay learn discipline, this is the place to learn how to reach your goals.”

What do you need to become a successful professional boxer? From the man who noticed and cultivated it in his son, Mahmoud says “You have to have heart.  You have to give it your all.  You can’t quit.  You have to go out of your way.  You have to compete.”

Men, women and children train here.  One of the members is a woman training for the Golden Gloves.  In the fall the boxing and fitness center will have a program exclusively for women run by women boxing trainers.

Sadam started this business with the money he earned at his fights.  If membership fees don’t cover the rent, he pays for it out of his own pocket. So when you watch him on Pay- Per-View you are contributing to our neighborhood.

The center is also the official home to Everlast boxing equipment.  You can purchase clothing, shoes, gloves – you name it.  Located at 6825 - 5th Avenue, Sadam Ali Boxing & Fitness Center has trainers onsite during two sessions, from 11:00 a.m. – 3 p.m. and from 6:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.  The gym is open for members to train on their own in between.  For current hours, membership and more information, call 718-764-6655. to Friy 10:30

-Rosalie Drago, August 2010