Brooklyn Flea

Profile

Inspired by Chelsea’s dwindling outdoor markets, Brooklyn real-estate blogger Jonathan Butler of browstowner.com co-founded the Brooklyn Flea—now the largest of its kind in the city—in spring 2008. The market draws about 200 vendors every Saturday, selling a mix of new and used goods. Youthful treasure-hunting locals, many with children in tow, browse mid-century modern wares like forties amoeba-shaped side tables, fifties bar stools, and Mies chairs; artful kitsch like painted ceramic owls; vintage records; and clothing. Some participating businesses have their own shops, like Northport-based furniture dealers Karen & Albert Antiquinaires, while others, like Birdhouse Jewelry, sell mainly online. The market’s culinary component is varied enough to rival the many brunch options on nearby DeKalb Ave. The Red Hook vendors churn out their fabled Mexican street food, aromas emanate from Pizza Moto’s portable brick oven, and Hot Blondies Bakery proffers satisfying little squares. — Xander Kaplan