A Local Father's Day Gift Guide
"The quality of a father can be seen in the goals, dreams and aspirations he sets not only for himself, but for his family."
-Reed Markham
It’s Father’s Day. Time to show your appreciation for the guy who read you countless bed-time stories, built forts with you out of sofa cushions, indulged your love of tickle torture, and, well, raised you. Dads are wonderful humans but why are they so darned difficult to shop for?? If you’re wondering whether or not he needs another “World’s Best Dad” mug, we’ll help you out. He’s all set. He’s probably good on ties and socks too. So now you’re totally stumped, right? Don’t despair. Read on for some fantastic gift ideas that will truly make Father’s Day 2020 one to remember. And not just because of all the peaceful protests you’ve attended together. We are talking truly unique stuff here. And the best part is, when you buy these Father’s Day gifts, you’ll be supporting some of your favorite local small businesses.
For the Music Lover:
Music centric gifts always hit the right note. Roughtrade is an independent record store that has a wide-ranging selection of music and amazingly curated displays. In addition to their record collection, they have CD’s and cassettes, as well as books, t-shirts, and record players. Roughtrade is a great spot to discover new music. They also have a venue that hosts great bands. Let Dad know you’d love to take him there when things open back up. In the meantime, Roughtrade is providing concerts through streaming platforms! Check out the line-up here. So, turn up the volume on your laptop and have your very own concert at home.
For the Craft Beer Drinker:
If Dad loves a good craft beer, Brooklyn Brewery is a great place to support during this challenging time. Pick up a gift certificate to be used when they open back up or get Dad one of their awesome Brooklyn branded t-shirts or baseball caps. They have a special running on their tees where you can buy two and get one free, so Grandpa and your favorite uncle could all be covered in one stop!
For the Whiskey Connoisseur:
Lovers of whiskey look no further, King’s County Distillery produces great quality bourbon and whiskey. If you want an extra special gift for your whiskey-loving pop, get him one of the interactive private tastings that KCD offers. You will receive a tasting kit, a tasting journal, and a booklet detailing their history. Dad can enjoy an intimate experience by appreciating all that goes into making whiskey in a guided virtual tour with one of KCD’s experts. The gift comes in a cool wooden box and you can choose from the options they have available ranging from 3 or 5 bottles of whiskey. Visit King’s County Distillery to get this unique and thoughtful gift sure to impress Dad!
For the Commuter:
Bicycling has drastically increased in NYC and for good reason too! There are so many health benefits associated with riding a bike. In addition to being great for the environment, it’s also tons of fun. Whether it is a leisure bonding bike ride or commuting to/from work, Dad is sure to love this gift. Brooklyn Bike Co. has made securing the perfect bike impressively easy. They've set up an innovative way to help their customers pick the perfect bike. Just set up a virtual showroom appointment to take a tour of the bikes and have your questions answered, which is the perfect way to ensure everyone is safe during COVID-19. Brooklyn Bike Co. cares about you much more than just a customer and wants to ensure you are getting quality products and great customer service. The Bedford 7 (retail $499) is beautifully designed and well suited for longer distance rides and hilly commutes and makes for a great gift that Dad will surely love. If you aren't in the Brooklyn area they can have your bike shipped to one of the hundred bike shops they have partnered up with. Be sure to stop by their site and browse the options of bikes they have along with some amazing accessories to jazz up Dad's cruiser.
For the Electronics Buff:
Right in the middle of Williamsburg you’ll find an electronics maniac haven for Dad, Mikey’s Hook Up. They are known as an Authorized Apple Retailer where they can repair and service your products, but they also have a large selection of computer hardware and accessories. Mikey’s also shelves recording equipment, guitar strings, microphones and turntables for those rad records from Roughtrade. Dad can peruse the selection of gadgetry at Mikey’s or get his DJ’in skills started with their vast selection of equipment and THEY HAVE A PING PONG TABLE, so Dad can get a game in while waiting!
For the Pie Lover:
There is good reason for the saying “The way to a man’s heart is through his stomach.” Take a short-cut to Dad’s heart with the stylings of Pies ‘n’ Thighs, specializing in amazing, mouth-watering comfort food. Yes, we feel confident saying that your dad will love their perfectly crispy and juicy chicken served over one of their flaky and buttery biscuits. He won’t mind a drizzle of the honey butter hot sauce over it either. Trust us on this one. For dessert, order one of their bourbon pecan pies, with its boozy pecan and chocolate filling in a classic all-butter crust. You can’t go wrong with any selection on their menu, really. Place your Father’s Day order online or over the phone for delivery or curb-side pick-up. We can’t wait for this popular neighborhood spot to open back up. In the meantime, avoid the long wait for a table and enjoy Pies ‘n’ Thighs’ delicious food with Dad at home.