Yavel’s list:
Best Loaf – Lopez Bakery – 5th ave bet 18 th and 19th St. The bread is very good and cheap. I always get the 7 grain. They make a nice loaf, but stay away from the pastry. The bread is baked fresh every day, but the other stuff tends to be stale. Haven’t tried the tamales yet.
Bakery – Two Little Red Hens – 8th Ave. They’re expensive, but so good.
Bodega/small grocer – La Dolce Vita – 7th Ave – Clean store and nice owner, also has a good beer selection
Toy Store – Toy Space on 7th ave around 13th – Nice selection of toys, if a bit overpriced. This place has saved me on a few occasions when I had to get a quick gift for a kid. There’s also a place on 5th ave, but I can’t remember the name.
Children’s Shoes – Windsor Shoes – Prospect Park West – The staff is very helpful and they have a good selection.
Pizza – Pino’s La Forchetta – 7th Ave – classic pizza joint
Coffee Shop – 6th ave and 12th St – Red Horse Cafe – good coffee and not crowded
Sandwich shop – Pollios – 5th Ave – Good hoagies and specialty foods. It has a nice, neighborhood feel.