If you asked me a week ago, I would have told you I don’t really shop in Dumbo. I live close by, and I had my mind made up that unless I wanted to spend a large portion of my bank account, I wasn’t going to go down there. I’ve changed my mind. New shop Something in Mind changed my mind.

The store is in that mini shopping mall (although it’s not really a mall at all) at 145 Front Street, so you wouldn’t notice it walking by. It’s a small space, but filled with unique dresses, tops, jewelry, and other accessories. Owner Meilan describes it as “classic edge,” and not too feminine. I love that the pieces come from a variety of under-the-radar designers, but what’s even better? It’s affordable. I tried on some adorable tops randing from $35-$60, which is pretty rare for NYC boutiques.

The staff, including Meilan are extremely helpful, offering advice whenever asked, but never pushy or salesy. Make sure to stop by Something in Mind when you’re in the neighb, they are currently updating their Spring line, so it’s a good time to check it out.

I decided to combine three of my Brooklyn faves to create the ultimate meetup experience. I start my mornings with Brewklyn Grind coffee, and I know you’ll want to too once you try a sample. And what better to pair with a good coffee than sweet treats? I can’t get enough of No Bake Makery’s little bite sized desserts in flavors like Vanilla Honey, Coconut, and S’mores. And you’ve probably heard me rave about 61Local (pretty much every other week), but it’s because I love the bar’s concept. It’s a public house, and they are all about community and supporting local businesses.

Come by, bring some friends, enjoy some local flavor, and chat about what you love about this borough. RSVP here now.

Who knew a sewer could be so pretty? Etsy shop Urban Street Prints by Julie brings design from the everyday urban built environment into the spotlight. Julie creates screenprints from rubbings of sewer grates, then prints them by hand in a community studio near the Gowanus Canal in Brooklyn. This print is from a rubbing in Fort Greene Park and goes for $42. Get yours here.

BONUS: As you learn, you’ll get to sip on samples of Red Jacket’s juice. The class is just $20. Visit Brooklyn Brainery’s website to sign up. 

So it works like this. You pick your subscription (starting at $19.99 per month) and then Craft Coffee brings 12 ounces of premium coffees from small artisan roasters to your door. I received 4 ounces each of Klatch Coffee, OQ Coffee Co., and Olympia Coffee Roasting Co., and so far, I’m impressed. Each blend has a rich flavor, but are distinctly different taste, so I can mix it up all month long.

I photo-documented my first Craft Coffee Journey; check it out below. Visit their website to get in a subscription, or get a one for a friend– it makes a great gift.

The simple decor and casual atmosphere make for a good dinner location to bring a group of friends. I’m already planning my next trip there, and this time I’m not leaving without the brussel sprouts and kale salad. Check out Chuko’s Facebook page for more information and photos, and let me know what you think when you give it a try.

Wanna swap? The event is $5, or free if you’re a new subscriber to Brooklyn Based OR if you bring a new subscriber as your plus one. Ah, those smart Brooklyn Based marketers. So bring your unopened spices, your cookbook collection, or that ice cream machine you thought would be a great investment at the time.

RSVP on the Facebook page, and tell Brooklyn Based  what you want to trade.