Then and Now Thursday: Marcy and Division Avenues

Much like last week's Then and Now, this picture, dating back to 1940-late 30's, of the corner of Marcy and Division Avenues is interesting because it taken at a time when the Brooklyn-Queens Expressway was still just a drawing. In the back right we can see the Brooklyn Public Library, Williamsburg Branch, which was the first of many Carnegie libraries, built in 1903. The curb of the sidewalk is nearly touching the grass in front of the library. On the left, residencies and retail stores alike lined the streets making this area both a business district and homeland to many. The trolley is still running, but we can see a few cars hidden down Marcy Ave on the right. 

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Desk Space Available at Metropolitan Green, 439 Metropolitan Avenue

Metropolitan Green is once again unoccupied and waiting for you. As Sonja Fries has picked up PoundcakeNYC to pop-up somewhere new, Metropolitan Green has decided to offer desk space to anyone who desires. For $250 a month you can get a 4 foot wide desk, 8 feet of shelf space and wifi (utilities included). Like the recently moved Williamsburg Coworking space, Metropolitan Green is a place to share a creative space with other like-minded residents. 

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Business of the Week: Fugetaboutit, 272 Grand Street

Fugetaboutit is unique in that it's the only head shop in the neighborhood. After making the transition of location nearly two years ago from the previous spot at Bedford Avenue and Grand Street, Fugetaboutit has come into their own in not only survival, but in servicing the locals. I had a chance to speak with Leo, an artist by trade, who runs the shop most of the time, and he told me some pretty interesting details. 

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Toby's Estate Celebrates Australian Day With Complimentary Food

Courtesy: Toby's Estate

To celebrate both the grand opening and Australian Day, Toby's Estate, which originated in Toby Smith's mother's garage many years ago, will be bringing a little slice of home to all of us in Williamsburg, at 125 North 6th Street, on Janurary 26th. This coming Thursday, with every coffee purchase will come with a complimentary ANZAC biscuit.

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Friday Foodporn: Buffalo Cantina, 149 Havemeyer Street

Though Buffalo Cantina is expressly 'Mexican' food, I wouldn't call it such. Especially when their specialty is wings. However, the food here is excellent. Opened for well over five years, Buffalo Cantina, on Havemeyer Street between South 2nd and South 1st Streets, was a pioneer in the gentrification of South Williamsburg, like it or not. The menu is extensive, ranging from the aforementioned wings and chicken tenders to tacos, burritos, burgers, salads and more. I sat down in the late morning and ordered Popcorn Shrimp and a Buffalo Chicken Burrito. 

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