Indiebound Spotlight: Powerhouse Arena

Throughout May, we’ll spotlight different NYC indie bookstores on our blog. IBNYC booksellers will tell us about some favorite independent businesses located near their shops, so when you’re out browsing at the bookstores, you’ll have info on other Indiebound businesses to visit nearby. This is a guide for shoppers and a resource for booksellers from around the world who will be visiting NYC this month for Book Expo America.

Today’s spotlight is on Powerhouse Arena, a “laboratory for creative thought” located in the scenic DUMBO neighborhood of Brooklyn. Powerhouse is a pavilion of non-fiction, life design, illustrated and local-themed books, innovative art and photography titles, handmade stationery and design gifts, and an outstanding collection of children’s books, notepads, and European and Japanese art and game kits. With soaring 24-foot ceilings on the 5,000 sq. foot ground floor, the Arena offers customers a “brain-stimulating experience” that supports imagination – it’s a unique bookstore and also serves as a gallery and performance space, and as the home for publishing arm, Powerhouse Books.

Powerhouse employees recently fessed up about some of the indie businesses in their neighborhood that they love: Foragers Market on Adams Street is where most staffers go for lunch, they have interesting beverages and a great organic salad & sushi bar. Owned and operated by four artist-entrepreneurs who call themselves “urban grocers”, they have the indie spirit – and are passionate about creating a friendly neighborhood market experience.

Another independent eatery is nearby Almondine Bakery — “Classic French pastries without the attitude” — a perfect spot for grabbing a chocolate croissant & fresh orange juice in the morning (before the lines hit!) For music lovers, Halcyon on Pearl Street is a must-stop for vinyl browsing (after book browsing, of course.) And in the evenings, Powerhouse folks suggest visiting Rice, the brainchild of green restaurateur David Selig, that serves up organic eclectic healthy fare.

Find all these independent businesses and IBNYC on Indiebound. Join today and add your favorite indie businesses!

These suggestions were submitted by Nathan Brown, Powerhouse employee.