Take The Ferry. Shop Small. Support Local.
PreviousFrom discovering a new coffee shop to finding your next favorite neighborhood store, there’s so much to experience throughout New York City’s waterfront communities.
The next time you ride NYC Ferry, take a little extra time to explore the neighborhood around your landing. Visit a local business, meet the people behind it, and discover something new along the way.
Every visit is an opportunity to support local entrepreneurs and the communities that make New York City special.
Your next favorite local spot might be just a ferry ride away!
1. She Wolf Bakery
Route: Astoria
Landing: Brooklyn Navy Yard
Bread lovers, this one’s for you! She Wolf Bakery is a Brooklyn-based artisan bakery specializing in naturally leavened breads made with regional grains. Known for its freshly baked sourdough, pastries, and seasonal offerings, it’s a great stop to pick up something delicious while exploring the Brooklyn Navy Yard.
Instagram: @shewolfbakery
Website: shewolfbakery.com
View this post on Instagram
2. Jalapa Jar
Route: Astoria
Landing: Brooklyn Navy Yard
Bring a little Texas flavor to your next ferry adventure! Jalapa Jar is a Brooklyn-based food business known for its fresh, all-natural salsas and flavorful Mexican-inspired dishes. From breakfast tacos and taco bowls to homemade guacamole and queso, there’s plenty to enjoy at this local spot.
Instagram: @jalapajar
Website: jalapajar.com
View this post on Instagram
3. Somedays Bakery
Route: Astoria
Landing: Long Island City
Looking for something sweet? Somedays Bakery is a neighborhood bakery in Long Island City specializing in freshly made croissants, pastries, and specialty coffee. Known for its beautifully crafted baked goods and inviting atmosphere, it’s the perfect place to stop for a morning treat or an afternoon pick-me-up.
Instagram: @somedaysbakery
Website: somedaysbakery.com
4. Sweetleaf Coffee Roasters
Route: Astoria / East River
Landing: Hunter’s Point South
Coffee lovers can get their caffeine fix at Sweetleaf Coffee Roasters, a Long Island City favorite known for its specialty coffee and freshly roasted beans. With carefully prepared espresso drinks and a welcoming neighborhood atmosphere, it’s a great place to grab your morning coffee or take a break while exploring the waterfront.
Instagram: @sweetleafnyc
Website: sweetleafcoffee.com
View this post on Instagram
5. Quimby’s Bookstore NYC
Route: East River
Landing: North Williamsburg
Book lovers, add this one to your list! Quimby’s Bookstore NYC is an independent bookstore in Williamsburg specializing in zines, small-press books, graphic novels, art prints, and other unique finds. Whether you’re searching for your next great read or something a little different, this neighborhood bookstore is worth exploring.
Instagram: @quimbysbookstorenyc
Website: quimbysnyc.com
View this post on Instagram
6. POWERHOUSE Arena
Route: East River / South Brooklyn
Landing: DUMBO
Discover something new at POWERHOUSE Arena, an independent bookstore and cultural space in DUMBO. Known for its curated selection of books covering photography, art, design, and literature, the bookstore also hosts author discussions, book launches, and special events. It’s a great stop for book lovers and anyone looking to experience Brooklyn’s creative community.
Instagram: @powerhousearena
Website: powerhousearena.com
View this post on Instagram
7. Café Patoro
Route: All Routes
Landing: Wall Street / Pier 11
Take a little trip to Brazil without leaving New York City! Café Patoro is a Brazilian bakery café specializing in pão de queijo, the traditional Brazilian cheese bread. Founded by husband-and-wife team Ahla and Geno, the café offers freshly baked treats, pastries, coffee, and other Brazilian-inspired favorites. It’s a great stop for a quick breakfast or an afternoon treat.
Instagram: @cafepatoro
Website: cafepatoro.com
View this post on Instagram
8. Bird & Branch
Route: St. George
Landing: Midtown West / W 39th Street – Pier 79
More than just a coffee shop, Bird & Branch is an independent specialty coffee business with a mission to give back to its community. The café serves locally roasted specialty coffee and operates a job-training program that helps individuals facing barriers to employment develop valuable hospitality and barista skills. Stop by for a great cup of coffee while supporting a business that makes a difference.
Instagram: @birdandbranchnyc
Website: birdandbranch.com
View this post on Instagram
