New York City's upper west side is blessed to have special boutique shops. I am highlighting a few of my favorites and really encourage everyone to stop by and check them out and support our local shop owners.

1. Outlette

https://www.outlettenyc.com

2. Runaway Poppy

http://runawaypoppy.com

3. Magpie

http://magpienewyork.com

4. Levain Bakery

https://www.levainbakery.com

Episode #1

New York's Coffee Oasis

Plant Shed has been a part of the Upper West Side community for years. When it comes to plants and flowers, they continue to set the standard for quality and affordability. Their new location on 87th Street and Columbus Avenue offers a huge selection of unique pottery, and gifts for your home. However, it's their in-store coffee shop that has the neighborhood talking.

Walking into PlantShed's coffee shop feels like you are in an oasis. Aside from delicious coffee, they are serving some of the most creative and fun beverages in New York City.
If you likes roses, try the Pink Rose Cocoa made with real rose petals and rose flavored marshmallows. Their hot chocolate Glitter Bomb made with edible is beautiful and delicious. The Giner-Mat-Chai latter is my personal favorite. It's not surprising their Director of Coffee is Ujae Lee, an award winning barista. You can't leave without trying one of their pastries baked from local New York City bakeries. They offer a wide range of gluten free and vegan options as well. PlantShed's welcoming staff and lovely environment is a space you will want to spend time to relax or catch up with friends. You can learn more about

PlantShed here: https://www.plantshed.com

Modern Bread and Bagel is taking gluten free and kosher cuisine to a whole new level. Offering high quality fresh dishes, fresh squeezed juices, and in house baked goods, it's no surprise that New Yorkers are waiting in lines to eat at this Upper West Side treasure. Owner, Orly formally trained in patisserie, was determined to develop a gluten free product that didn't compromise on taste for her husband living with celiac disease. Orly pursued an independent study on gluten free baking and worked closely with her school's head pastry chef to expand her knowledge on flour blends. After years of research, she created a line of gluten-free flour blends called Blends By Orly. Clearly, she isa genius because her baked goods and bagels are incredibly delicious.

Living and traveling all around the world. Orly and her husband created a menu inspired from cuisine from several cities including: Sydney, Tel Aviv and New York City. Modern Bread and Bagel is open for breakfast andlunch, but their dinner menu will be introduced this Spring under the name Arba.

Learn more about Modern Bread and Bagel here:

https://www.modernbreadandbagel.com

Learn more about Orly's amazing flours here:

http://blendsbyorly.com

What better way to spend Memorial Day than eating oysters with a cold beer or a nice glass of wine. Mermaid Inn on New York's Upper West Side has been serving the largest selection of oysters and lobster rolls in the neighborhood. Not sure which oysters are for you? No problem, their proprietary app Osterpedia takes the guess work out of ordering oysters and provides a reference tool for oysters you already tried. Open for happy hour and dinner everyday. Yes, happy hour is everyday. Get there right at 5 o'clock because the line is out the door. Learn more about Mermaid Inn here: http://www.themermaidnyc.com

"Life is Beautiful" on the Upper West Side at Pizzeria Sirenetta. This neighborhood favorite is serving Neapolitan style pizza baked in a 4000 pound wood-fired oven. Other fabulous menu items include housemade pastas and season antipastis. Sirenetta means mermaid in Italian celebrating its sister restaurant next door. Don't miss their epic happy hours happening seven days a week. Yep, Everyday! You can learn more about Pizzeria Sirenetta here: http://www.pizzeriasirenetta.com

Successful Vision on New York City's Upper West Side is not only an optical store, it's also a mini art gallery. They carry a huge range of uniquely designed frames you will never see anywhere else. They also have a large selection of eyewear for kids. They proudly carry iGreen which is a sustainable eyewear company allowing you to interchange the color of your frames without buying a new pair. They have a optometrist on sight so all your vision needs can be taken care of under one roof. It's pet friendly and a true neighborhood gem. Learn more about Successful Vision here: https://www.svbshop.com

JG Melon is known for it's legendary burgers and they just opened their third location on New York City's Upper West Side. In this episode we into the kitchen and find out the secrets on what makes their burgers so iconic and delicious. You can find out more about JG Melon here: http://jgmelonnyc.com

Happy Valentine's Day! The Sill has planted itself on New York's Upper West Side and we got the dirt on how they are turning thumbs green. They have a large selection of curated plants with New York living in mind. They have plants for beginners, pet friendly ones and plants that thrive with limited light. Their workshops are designed to help anyone become a responsible plant mom or dad. Get the dirt here: https://www.thesill.com

Page through any interior design magazine and you will discover Farrow and Ball is the paint of choice when it comes to high design and creating a beautiful room. Farrow and Ball is known for high quality and beautiful paint colors. Their wall coverings are made with their highly pigmented paint and adds instant value and beauty to any home. Not sure what color to pick? Their expert in home color consultants are their to help to showcase your home in its best light. Hands down the best paint store in New York City. Learn more about Farrow and Ball here: http://us.farrow-ball.com

It's not everyday you find a business that specializes in making and repairing string instruments. David Segal has been making violins on the Upper West Side since 1975 and his instruments are played all over the world. He is also a dealer of rare instruments and possesses the last instrument made in 1737 by famed artisan Antonio Stradivarius. Making this video was an amazing experience and I hope you enjoy it as much as I enjoyed making it. Happy Holidays.

Uprooted: New York City's first florist on wheels. It's not every day you see a florist on wheels. In a city full of ice cream and food trucks, a flower truck is a welcome surprise. When filming this episode of WestSide Wednesdays, I noticed everyone who passed by had a smile on their face and shouted with delight on how much they love Uprooted. Founders Ashley and Kristin created a business that delivers happiness all across New York City. They offer subscriptions, classes and will come to your private event. They park all over NewYork City, but you can find them on the Upper West Side on Broadway or Columbus Avenue most weekends. Check out their website or their social channels to find where they have rooted themselves. Learn more about Uprooted here http://www.uprootedflowertruck.com

Katie Thompson started creating jewelry as a hobby, but soon she was capturing the attention of fashion editors and she was on her way. ktCollection was a favorite at New York City street fairs and festivals so in 2010 Katie opened her flagship store on the Upper West Side. At ktCollection you’ll find their line of handmade jewelry, fun costume jewelry as well as beautiful scarves and handbags. Whether you’re looking for an investment piece you’ll wear forever or an inexpensive trendy show stopper, you will find it at ktCollection. They also host regular wine events to stay rooted in the community and make new friends. ktCollection is a true family business!

Learn more about ktCollection here: https://ktcollection.com use Code: KTANNETTE17 for 10% your entire purchase through 2017.

Episode #20

Welcome to WestSide Wednesdays special Thanksgiving episode where I had the pleasure to bake with the lovely Chief Baking Officer, Bobbie Lloyd. Bobbie teaches me a how to properly bake a beautiful caramel apple hand pie. She has great baking tips and the end result was incredibly delicious. I had an amazing experience, and it's easy to see why Magnolia is so loved.

Learn more about Magnolia Bakery here: https://www.magnoliabakery.com/locations/upper-west-side/

Episode #19

Do you love games? If so, you are going to love this place! With over 1000 games to chose from, Hex & Co. caters to everyone regardless of age. Owners Greg May, Jon Freeman Ph. D and Mark Miller have introduced the first uptown board cafe. Serving delicious bites and soon beer and wine. They also offer delicious locally roasted coffee and sweets so you can spend the whole day playing your favorite childhood games. They have something going on almost every night and on Wednesday night they host Dungeons and Dragon encounters. I am personally looking forward to a future Scrabble tournament. Hex & Co. offers after school educational programs and camps. You can learn about Hex & Co. here http://hexnyc.com

Episode #18

Mugi pottery studio has been an Upper West Side gem for 30 years. This special business provides a relaxed atmosphere where you can learn to create pottery guided by patient and skilled instructors. They offer classes for children and adults of all ages and skill levels. You can also host an event, bridal shower or birthday party at this lovely business. Mugi also has couple's night twice a month for couples looking for a new way to spend date night. You will find amazing pottery in their gallery where you can purchase special pieces made by talented artists.

Learn more about MUGI pottery studio here: http://www.mugipottery.com

Episode #17

Floating Mountain sits above the hustle and bustle of the Upper West Side's west 72nd street. Inside this serene tea house you will find peace and tranquility, as though you just entered a zen-like haven. They offer over 60 types of specialty Chinese teas, curated by the co-founders on their trips to China. Floating mountain is also a gallery where they showcase artists who specialize in ceramics. Floating Mountain also hosts tea tastings, live music events and various workshops. They sell tea packages by the grams so you could also make their delicious teas at home. Learn more about Floating Mountain here: https://www.floating-mountain.com

Episode #16

Izakya refers to the casual gastropub scene of Japan. Ida translates to between, during, or "a while". Located in the heart of the Upper West Side, Izakaya Ida is a restaurant where you can relax and enjoy Japan's gastropub inspired food with your favorite people. They offer a diverse menu including Yakitori/Yakaiyasai grilled vegetables and meat skewers, delicious ramen dishes, rice bowls and fresh sushi and sashimi favorites. They also offer 20 different kinds of Japanese beer sake and asian spirits.

Episode #15

In the age of technology, it's a welcome surprise to see an enrichment program for kids that is making reading fun. Walking into Book Nook is like walking into a real life fairy tale. Providing an environment any child would enjoy spending time. Book Nook uses an organic approach to literature and storytelling to expand the minds of children through words and illustration. After a successful opening in the Upper West Side, Book Nook recently opened a second location in Tribeca.

Episode #14

Book Culture in New York City's Upper West Side, is undoubtedly a neighborhood favorite hang out. This incredible book store is filled with books (check out the staff picks) candles, kitchen items and beautiful stationery. The Columbus street location, has an entire lower level filled with children's books and toys to delight any young mind. The store has a true community vibe and focuses on providing their customers with an amazing shopping experience. They also hold a variety events including readings from local authors. I absolutely love this store and I know I share the same adoration with my neighbors. Book Culture is a perfect example of why we need to support our independent merchants.

Episode #13

Voila Chocolat is a chocolate lovers paradise where one can learn the art of making chocolate. Create your own custom bars, lollipops or truffles with incredible educators including renowned pastry chef Christophe Toury. One of the top 10 Chocolatiers in North America. Voila also offers space for special events or parties. Come relax with one of their extraordinary hot chocolates or a glass of wine. Reserve a spot or just walk-in. This is a charming neighborhood spot for all ages. Oh, they even have happy hour. Cheers. Learn more here: Learn more here: http://voila-chocolat.com

Episode #12

Some of the most beautiful flowers can be found at the West Side Community Garden in the heart of the Upper West Side. This urban green space is entirely run by volunteers. The space also houses a large vegetable garden and small amphitheater where they feature movies in the park during the summer months. The garden hosts other fun events including, live jazz and arts and crafts festivals. A great hang out if you are in the Upper West Side and want to relax in tranquility. Learn more about the park and make a donation here: http://www.westsidecommunitygarden.org

Episode #11

Learn more about sensuous bean: http://sensuousbean.com/store/ It's not easy to find an independent coffee shop these days. Lucky for upper west siders we have Sensuous Bean at 66 w 70th. It's been around for 41 years and has 70 different coffees to chose from. They blend to taste and offer 40 selections of flavored coffees. They also an amazing selection of tea including green and black teas. They are a neighborhood favorite and experts in everything coffee.

Episode #10

Meet Jeannie owner and lead hat designer at Jeannie's dream. This Upper West Side shop will looks like an ordinary store on the outside, but upon entering you will be blown away by what's inside. Jeannie carries all hand made hats designed by renowned designers including Philip Treacy, hat designer to the royal family and the cast of Sex and the City. She also carries KMO jewelry from Paris. My favorite jewelry line and I wear it on every episode of this series. Jeannie's also carries the most amazing scarves which she carefully curates. Jeannie's Dream is a true neighborhood treasure and so is Jeannie.

Episode #9

Known for their outstanding customer service and knowledgeable wine staff that takes you a joyful journey through the wine world. Amsterdam Wine Co. provides an expertly curated and ever-changing selection of the world's finest wines. They taste every wine that comes into the store and bases them on style and value. This is truly one of the best wine stores in NYC.

Twice voted “Best NYC Wine Shop” – Citysearch

“Critic’s Pick” – New York Magazine

"Top 20 NYC Wine Destinations" – Food & Wine Magazine

“Small but excellent…helping to extend and improve the wine culture in the United States.” – Eric Asimov, New York Times.

Episode #8

The upper west side is a well traveled neighborhood. Long time upper westside Gabriella Contestabile is the founder of bespoke travel service company Su Misura which means tailor made. She customizes tours of Tuscany to give her clients the ultimate travel experience with uncompromising detail. Her travelers get the true Italian experience by interacting with the local artisans, designers and culinary experts. Su Misura is not a travel agency, it's a travel experience at a whole new level.

Episode #7

Go back in time and arrive in style! Icon style is the most amazing vintage store in New York City. Pieces you have seen at the Oscars and other major award shows are available at this Upper West Side gem. Want something special? You will find it here!

Episode #6

Knitty City

Upper West Side's Knitting City is hands down the best knitting store in New York City. It's not just a store, it's a place to feel a real sense of community where everyone is welcome. They have a huge selection of yarns, books and accessories. Want to learn to knit? This is the place. They have knitting and crochet classes with the most talented and patient instructors. They have free classes in Bryant Park every Tuesday through the summer and a men's night every Wednesday. You can sign up for a class or take a private lesson, there is something for everyone at every level. This truly is one of the Upper West Side's most special stores.

Episode #5

Septuagesimo Park

Want to discover what makes Upper West Side such an exceptional neighborhood? One of it's hidden secrets is this tiny pocket park which happens to be the tiniest in Manhattan. It is nestled between Central Park and Riverside Park. Come to relax, eat a quiet lunch and just relax and escape the chaos of the city. You can learn more about http://voila-chocolat.com

Episode #4

Carried Away Chefs

Too busy to cook but still want healthy, nutritious meals. Carried Away chefs is New York City's premiere in home personal chef service. Custom weekly menus, catering and in home cooking classes are some of the services provided by this phenomenal company. Founded by Kate Homes, she is constantly sourcing the freshest, highest quality seasonal ingredients available. Her chefs are all formally trained at the finest culinary schools and restaurants the country has to offer. No time, no problem. Carried Away Chefs is bringing families back to the dinner table. You can learn more about Carried Away Chefs at http://carriedawaychefs.com

Episode #3

Julie's Beet

This little gem of a shop has been under your nose and you probably didn't even know it. Julie's Beet carries the most unique and lovely food item you can't buy at your local grocery store. Her chef background and sophisticated taste in food, lends to curating the most amazing food items. Everything from chocolate, sauces, teas, and pickles. This is a culinary dream come true.

Episode #2

Magpie

If you are looking for beautifully crafted one of a kind gifts, organic products or letterpressed stationery made from recycled paper, you have to check out Magpie. Many of their products are locally made and constructed from recycled sustainable materials. Owned by native upper west sider Sylvia Parker, Magpie is a true neighborhood gem. You can find Magpie at 488 Amsterdam Ave. or online.

Episode #1

Marie & J

Want to shop like a Parisian on the Upper West Side? Then check out Marie & J a brand new jewelry and clothing boutique offering custom designed natural stone pieces. This adorable boutique carries designers from all over the world including Korea and Italy. Jewelry, bags, shoes, clothes...you won't be disappointed. You can find Marie & J at 215 W 83rd.

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