Square Roots | 08.20.19
Independent grocery stores can be found in just about every neighborhood of Brooklyn, and just like the people who live in the borough, they’re all unique. From specialty stores and co-ops to family-owned and operated stores, you can find anything you’re looking for, while still shopping local. We’ve rounded up a few of our favorites for you to check out next time you’re hungry.
The Meat Hook, Brooklyn (Photo: Melissa Hom)
Location: 1133 Manhattan Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11222
Short history: Opened in 2017, bringing a much needed grocer to this pocket of the neighborhood.
Why we love: In this diverse store, you’ll find everything from hard-to-find regional staples to dozens of pints of ice cream from local NYC makers like Odd Fellows and Big Gay Ice Cream.
Follow on social: @gourmetafaremarket
Location: 397 Graham Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11211
Short history: Opened in 2009, specializing in local meat from small, family-run farms in New York state.
Why we love: The fresh, local meats bring us in, and the backyard parties keep us coming back. The Meat Hook pays the farms that they work with a “sustainable price for their practices and quality,” and pass on that quality to their customers.
Follow on social: @themeathook
Location: 767 Fulton St, Brooklyn, NY 11217
Short history: Opened in 2008 with a mission to provide goods and services made with integrity, skill, and pride. They believe in supporting small batch and local producers as well as products that are ethically produced with a mindfulness for sustainability.
Why we love: This is our favorite spot for selecting thoughtfully sourced and unique ingredients for a winning charcuterie or cheese board. The staff at Greene Grape is super knowledgeable about every ingredient in the store.
Follow on social: @greenegrape
Location: 782 Union St, Brooklyn, NY 11215
Short history: Founded in 1973 by a grassroots group called the Mongoose, the co-op now has over 17,000 members!
Why we love: Local and ethically raised meats, fish, and produce take the front seat at this co-op where members work one shift per month in exchange for access to the shop’s consciously-sourced inventory.
Follow on social: @foodcoop
Location: 632 Vanderbilt Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11238
Short history: This family-run grocery was opened by Frank Widdi & Abdul Jawad in 1983 (that’s 36 years!). Widdi was a pioneer in the grocery business and there’s even a street named in his honor - Subhi Widdi Way - on 56th St and 6th Ave in Brooklyn.
Why we love: Foodtown is only a five minute walk away from Prospect Park, so it’s the perfect spot to pick up supplies before a picnic or evening concert.
Follow on social: @foodtown_prospectheights
Location: 991 Fulton St, Brooklyn, NY 11238
Short history: In the 50+ years that this family-owned store has been open, they have never missed a block party.
Why we love: Brooklyn icon Biggie Smalls once worked here bagging groceries!
Follow on social: @KeyFood
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