Brooklyn Flea

Jane Van Cleef's organic, snuggly characters aren't just toys—they're little friends.

Beautiful, lovingly restored antique treasures from the '30s to the '70s.

26-year-old Yoni Erlich, along with partners Donna Erlich and Allon Yosha, started Schnitz three summers ago because he wanted to pay homage to his favorite food. And so far, with recognition from Mario Batali, a "Best Savory" award last fall from Smorg fans—and the promise of quitting his day job on the horizon—the schnitzel business never looked (or tasted!) so good.

Heartbreaking Dawns' Johnny McLaughlin came to hot sauces by way of near eastern languages, visual art, a well stamped passport, and literature. And though that might not seem like the classic route to a PhD in Scotch Bonnets, the proof is in the culinary pyrotechnics.

Red Hook designer Jane Buck's cheery tugboat, hedgehog, and artichoke patterns just pop—whether they're on an apron, beach bag, or an itty bitty onesie.

Alyssa Ettinger's porcelain jewelry and dishes are a marriage of the delicate colors and patterns of Downton Abbey tea rooms and an all encompassing, "bring the tea room to the people" sort of Brooklyn eye.

Ronnie Kosa's Boomerang Art & Co. isn't just one of the best places to flip through vinyl, street art paraphernalia, skateboards, and gear—it's a safe spot to shake off the ever-present i-scape. Part of Kosa's goal is to "boomerang back" the five senses with some tangible New York cultural artifacts and some good ole fashioned human contact. So don't be shy about asking him questions at the Flea, because to him that's what the whole experience is about—bridging the internet void and building an experience that's real—through art, music, skating—or just hanging out with each other.

Hiro: "I have been a big fan of American rock and jazz since I was kid. And I have been surfing for about 10 years—I even surf in NYC. That laid-back lifestyle inspires our choices. But what is most inspiring to me is New York life itself and the people of the city."

It takes but a moment to feel flush with the mystical aura of Bleecker Street Antiques. Perhaps it's the laid back manor with which Gio (left) strums her guitar as you peruse the glittery merchandise—or the way Aline (right) gives a knowing smile as she watches the way a particular item on display seems to cast a spell on a certain browser.

Takumi Taco's Japanese-Mexican street food mash-up may seem a little too wild at first for those who've generally arranged their cuisine by continent the way a lunch lady spaces your potatoes from your string beans in an old school cafeteria tray. But this is Brooklyn—convention be damned! Born from the late night, post-work snack dreams of Bond Street Executive Chef Marc Spitzer, these tacos are totally worth re-fusing tectonic plates.