Sorry JLove, I have been busy work wise. Campaign season.
So much to say, have no idea where to begin. I will just ramble and then note some of my usual spots/bait places/favourites and note the address for you.
BROOKLYN
Bargains and vintage you should venture to Brooklyn.
I love love love Williamsburg as well as Greenpoint and Parkslope ( all neighbourhoods in Brooklyn) for shopping and eateries. There are so many places in Brooklyn that are worth venturing to but the above is where I always seem to end up.
Williamsburg is an extremely trendy cool kid area. I can only compare it to Shoreditch/NottingHill type places. It is a decent sized area aswell.
Bedford Ave is packed with bars,boutiques and eateries. You can get the L line (Silver) from Manhattan straight to Bedford Avenue. Journey is super quick as it takes about ten minutes. I advise just wondering around the main strip and side streets as there are alot of hidden places and some are not named.
Greenpoint is extremely residential and very pretty. Nice streets etc Neighbourhood is made up of mostly Polish and Hispanics so at first I was weary that there is some sort of race divide but it is a very safe and friendly neighbourhood and everyone knows each other and sits out on the stoops chatting and what not. Not many places to party here but lots of nice places for lunch and bars.
Parkslope is a overall good area and it has got lots of everything and has easy access to places like Prospect Park and the botanical gardens etc. Lots lots to do here.
Sweet Water - 105 North 6Street in Williamsburg is one of my favourite places for dinner( I am in love with one of the waiters). Usually rammed so try to get a reservation. I usually eat there around 7pm to avoid the crowds. The steak here is delicious, melt in your mouth delicious.
SEA - 114 North 6th Street in Williamsburg ( it is more or less opposite SeaWater). Overly stylish. Decent drinks and food. Can get abit pretentious/video hoe types but that's because a rapper has a share in the place. I would recommend it for a drink/check it out if you're in the area.
Papacito's - 999 Manhattan Ave - Greenpoint. Cheap. Good food. Nice outdoor area.
I am getting bored. I will finish this later.