CSJ’s 2025 Holiday Gift Guide
For the people you love and the neighborhood that inspires us.
Holiday shopping doesn’t have to mean endless scrolling or a frantic last-minute checkout. Some of the best gifts are right here in the neighborhood — baked, printed, stitched or dreamed up by the people who make West Brooklyn what it is.
This guide is for the friend who knows the best slice, the sibling who moved away, the regular, the collector, the newly engaged and the person who swears they don’t want anything (but absolutely does).
Whether you’re shopping for a host, a homebody, a foodie, a mom or someone impossible to shop for, these picks are thoughtful, local and made to delight. Here’s to gifting with intention and supporting the businesses that shape our community.
A Hat from Swoony’s
Merchandise from any of Sal Lamboglia’s neighborhood joints (Swoony’s, Cafe Spaghetti, Sal Tang’s and the soon-to-open Bar Ferdinando) is a quiet neighborhood flex. Gift a piece to the friend who eats out more than they cook.
Pricing: $30 at the restaurant
A Wooden Heart Menorah from The Six Bells
A sweet, heirloom-worthy menorah that brings warmth to every night of the holiday. Gift this to the friend starting new traditions in a new home, and throw in some painted candles to go with it.
Pricing: $115 in-store or online, $27 per candle
A Neighborhood Post Card Sweater from Rue Saint Paul
A cozier postcard (it’s basically like sending a hug). Gift a vintage, screen printed sweater to a friend or family member who lives out of town.
Pricing: $84 in-store or online
A Class Pack from DISTRICT
More than a brownstone gym, District is the neighborhood’s wellness center, complete with a sauna, cold plunge and infrared lights. Gift a class pack to the friend who finds joy through movement.
Pricing: Starting at $89 at the gym or online. Class types include HIIT, yoga, sculpting and infrared light. Use code CSJHOLIDAY25 now through the end of the year for an extra 10 percent off.
A Pouch from DAE
This quilted cotton pouch in a neutral cream color is an instant classic. Gift one to the friend whose oversized bag could use some organizing.
Pricing: $30 in-store or online
An Inspiration Print from Maha Rose
We could all use a gentle reminder to be kind every now and then. Gift a riso art print by Lisa Levine, founder of Maha Rose, to the friend with empty walls.
Pricing: $40 in-store or online
A Traditional Panettone from Pasticceria Monteleone
A nod to centuries-old Italian craftsmanship, Pasticceria Monteleone’s panettone is naturally leavened, gently golden and tender. Light citrus and sweet raisins give it just the right holiday lift. Gift this to the friend or family member who’s hosting.
Pricing: $45 in-store
Frida Kahlo Earrings from Mexico In My Pocket
Mexico In My Pocket partnered with indigenous artisans based outside of Mexico City to recreate the pair of hand earrings Picasso gifted Frida Kahlo during a trip to Paris. Gift these to the art lover in your life.
Pricing: $295 online
Seeing Stones from Art of Play
They may look like dice, but Art of Play’s Seeing Stones are etched with ancient runes meant to spark intuition and play. Gift this to the friend who loves party games.
Pricing: $36 in-store or online
A Bottle of Frankies 457 Olive Oil
The legend. Frankies Extra Virgin Olive Oil tastes how great olive oil should — bright, nutty and flavorful. Gift this to the home cook who never measures.
Pricing: $44.99 in stores or online
A Bridal Robe from Le Laurier
There’s the dress, and then there’s the robe before the dress. Enter: Le Laurier’s Hair & Makeup Robe. Gift this to the bride who wants to feel fabulous on her special day.
Pricing: $98–$228 in stores (Le Laurier, Macy’s, Kleinfeld Bridal NYC) or online
A Private Working Space from Alcove
Alcove is an oasis for individual productivity, creativity and focus. Gift a few hours in a private pod to the remote worker or entrepreneur who could use a change of scenery.
Pricing: Varies, gift cards by request
A T-Shirt from Public Records
Shane Davis, co-founder and creative director of Public Records, once said he envisioned the vegan restaurant and hi-fi bar to be “more of a biomorphic spirit than a brand.” The logo, which evokes the Eye of Ra, accomplishes just that. Gift some merch to the friend who appreciates good music and even better speakers.
Pricing: Varies, in-store
A LORE Glass Arcadia Planter from DAE
This handmade glass planter, available in multiple colors, is designed for optimal drainage, ventilation and easy cleanup. Gift this to the plant lover in your life.
Pricing: $225 in-store only
A Facial from Tres Belle Petite Medi-Spa
Tres Belle Petite Medi-Spa is home to the neighborhood’s most coveted facials, including those backed by cult-favorite French brand Biologique Recherche. Gift a facial to the mom who could use an hour that’s entirely hers.
Pricing: Varies, gift cards can be purchased in-store or online
Must cop the swoony’s hat