Best new indie shops: Best hybrid shop

These multi-use spaces cater to varied interests.

By Laura Lanz-Frolio Mon Apr 11 2011

Best new indie shops 2011

  • Photograph: Lindsay Maclean Taylor

    Soda counter at Tin City Drug & General Store

    Soda counter at Tin City Drug & General Store

  • Photograph: Lindsay Maclean Taylor

    Artisanal pantry staples at Tin City Drug & General Store

    Artisanal pantry staples at Tin City Drug & General Store

  • Photograph: Lindsay Maclean Taylor

    Beauty section at Tin City Drug & General Store

    Beauty section at Tin City Drug & General Store

  • Black Gold

    Black Gold

  • Photograph: Virginia Rollison

    Rare albums at Black Gold

    Rare albums at Black Gold

  • Photograph: Virginia Rollison

    A cup of made-to-order Rook coffee, $3, at Black Gold

    A cup of made-to-order Rook coffee, $3, at Black Gold

Photograph: Lindsay Maclean Taylor

Soda counter at Tin City Drug & General Store

Soda counter at Tin City Drug & General Store

Winner: Tin City Drug and General Store
This diverse depot gives off a distinctly '50s vibe, with a striped awning overlooking the sidewalk and a retro teal-and-white color palette inside. Up front, at the classic soda counter, indulge in old-fashioned treats enhanced by local ingredients: The brown cow ($4) has a scoop of Van Leeuwen ice cream floating on top, and the pressed sandwiches are made with bread from Red Hook bakery Margaret Palca Bakes ($5--$7). Once you're full, head to the back area for some goods to tote home: The wooden shelves are stocked with artisanal pantry staples such as Rick's Picks pickles ($9) and Dave's Gourmet butternut-squash tomato sauce ($7). The beauty section features Herb 'n' Life herbal shampoo with flaxseed and neem oil ($13) and Karen's Body Beautiful body butter ($18), created by Bed-Stuy resident Karen Tappin. 366 Lewis Ave between Halsey and Macon Sts, Bedford-Stuyvesant, Brooklyn (718-443-4141, tincityny.com). Mention TONY at checkout to receive 10 percent off through May 1.

Runner-up:
Stop into this pint-size record store and caf for a cup of brewed-to-order Rook coffee ($3) and you'll likely end up browsing the rare-album collection, curated by co-owner Jeff Ogiba, which includes '60s rock like Blue Magoos' Psychedelic Lollipop album ($25). But it's more than just the java and music that's noteworthy here: Daniel Santoro's selection of antique home decor also deserves attention. Obscure pieces like a ceremonial helmet from the Odd Fellows secret society ($200), assorted turn-of-the-century medical charts ($2--$200) and Victorian photos ($2--$10) are among the quirky items that will grab your attention. 461 Court St between Luquer St and 4th Pl, Carroll Gardens, Brooklyn (347-227-8227, blackgoldbrooklyn.com)

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