nerfbert

What do people think are some good gift ideas for presents to take back home from New York? We have to take back presents for lots of different people so don't want to get things that are too big or heavy (luggage wise!). Any ideas for some gifts that say "New York" or "USA"? We've already got things like "I love NY" T-shirts and the usual key-rings etc. but any other ideas?

seetheworld

I usually like to pick up a print or stationery from the MOMA (Museum of Modern Art)or one of the other museums. But I usually don't bring back gifts for lots of people when I go away - I usually buy something I like for myself or family.

Maybe others have some ideas.

tuscanlifeedit

I am not sure about things that say "NY" or "USA" but it seems to me that vendors in midtown have tons of that sort of stuff. I prefer to bring back unusual things for people I want to give gifts to. The East Village is full of unusual shops with lots of unique things, some of which even say New York on them.

A big hit in our family is gourmet gifts from Dean and DeLuca. They have great candy bars and lots of unusual things. And Jacques Torres would be a great stop for chocolate gifts. Chinatown for spices, ditto Korea Town. My SIL is a NY police man, and people love to get NYPD hats, jackets, etc. I notice lots of folks wearing FDNY gear, too.

starrsville

I agree with the NYPD stuff. Caps were a big hit a few years ago. (you don't have to worry about sizes)

foxymoron

Hi nerfbert,

In addition to the suggestions already offered, the NYC transit museum store located in Grand Central Terminal has some great gift ideas, including chocolate subway tokens and heaps of attractive and easily-packed subway-related items (t-shirts, tote bags, pencil cases, magnets etc). Very New York! You could also have a browse in the gift store of the New York Public Library at 5th Ave and 42nd St – as a starting point, the souvenir baseballs are cute, and I also liked the tote bag with the NYPL's guardian lions, Patience and Fortitude, around the base.

Depending on your budget/how much you really like the recipients of these gifts anything that bears the logo of one of NY's sports teams might be well-received - I imagine such items would be widely available, but you could try Gerry Cosby & Co. at Madison Sq Garden.

Finally, my friends and family have always appreciated edible gifts. If you're not from the US maybe something as "simple" as a selection of Hershey bars or other chocolate bars or candy not available at home. In addition to the suggestion of Dean and Deluca, have a snuffle through Zabar's (Broadway @ 80th St) – I brought back some chocolate rugelach that was scarfed down with muffled appreciation by my BIL, and they also have easy-pack items like tote bags and aprons.

These were the first things that came to mind when I read your post. Hope they're of some help, and happy shopping!

cheers,
foxymoron

nerfbert

thanks! these are really terrific suggestions! I think I'd like some of these gifts!