A few weeks ago on a decent-for-March kind of day I had a coffee date with a fellow freelancer over in Brooklyn near Park Slope. The sun was thinking about shining, a light breeze was blowing, and I had all afternoon at my disposal.

So, on the recommendation of my partner in caffeine I walked over to 5th Avenue (no, the other 5th Avene) to see what I could see. I have to give props to Root Hill Café for the latte, and BEYGL for the excellent California Turkey Club that fueled my adventures. Two solid choices for a quick bite when you’re on the move.

On this trip I focused my exploration on the end of the street closest to the Barclay Center, but if the first dozen blocks are any indication; I’m excited to come back and continue to scout further along. There’s a lot to see, but I did my best to narrow it down to my Top 5 places to check out during your next stroll through Park Slope. For fairness I've put them in alpha order, which is also fairly close to the order of appearance as you walk from the Barclay Center, so that's convenient.

These shops hit all the points on my super-scientific checklist for a fun shopping experience: high-charm factor, a sense of discovery, and classic taste with a twist. I hope you enjoy them too!

A.Cheng has a beautifully curated selection of classic women’s apparel, jewelry, and accessories – fresh colors, fun patterns, and lovely materials. During my visit the shop was stocked with pieces perfect for roof deck drinks this summer.

A.Cheng | Images: Laura Messersmith — **A.Cheng** | Images: *Laura Messersmith*

Annie’s Blue Ribbon General Store is a great spot to find beautifully designed gifts for all occasions. If you’re desperate for a unique housewarming party, baby shower, or dude’s birthday gift I’d trust Annie’s Blue Ribbon to save the day.

Annie's Blue Ribbon | Images: Laura Messersmith — **Annie's Blue Ribbon** | Images: *Laura Messersmith*

Habit is rocking a mix of Gypset boho, Pacific Northwest crunchy, and a dash of homespun vintage in its women’s clothing, accessories and home décor. Cool stuff for adding a well-traveled vibe to your look.

Habit | Images: Laura Messersmith — **Habit** | Images: *Laura Messersmith*

Pink & Olive has the loveliest selection of gifts, children’s clothing, and stationery – journals, address books, and so many charming letterpress cards that I could have found the appropriate greetings for a year’s worth of occasions.

Pink & Olive | Images: Laura Messersmith — **Pink & Olive** | Images: *Laura Messersmith*

Poppy is full of women’s clothing and accessories in bright colors and fresh patterns that made me want to retire my winter navys and greys immediately and fast forward to warm weather shades. So many pretty things!

Poppy | Images: Laura Messersmith — **Poppy** | Images: *Laura Messersmith*