Shop of the Week: Black Gold
Black Gold brings records, coffee and antiques to a burgeoning strip of local businesses in Carroll Gardens. Situated smack dab between "the Franks'" lauded eateries (Frankies 457 and Prime Meats), Black Gold adds its own touch of nostalgia with a curated selection of vinyl, specialty coffee by Rook Coffee Roasters, and early American and Victorian-era antiques.
Owners Sommer Foster-Santoro and Jeff Ogiba left their hospitality and design jobs, respectively, to pursue a neighborhood venture they'd long envisioned. They designed the space together with the help of Foster-Santoro's husband (and Ogiba's bestie), an antiques dealer who sources the shop's collection. Black Gold's taxidermy, relics and religious ephemera are in superior condition, with a price point that sings.
Same goes for the music. Ogiba says he wanted to offer records you won't find everywhere else – and at the best possible price. We spotted some solid punk, psych and soul titles alongside classic rock and early hip-hop. "We really like to have a little bit of everything," Ogiba noted, "though Talking Heads and our jazz and blues seem to move immediately." Business has been turning so quickly, in fact, that their stock of music and antiques on display have morphed almost completely since they opened a few weeks ago. “The sound and look here constantly evolves, and we like that," they agreed.
It all makes Black Gold the perfect place to lose track of time – combing through bins, inspecting rare mourning art, grooving by the listening station while noshing the SCRATCHbread treats they sell. Just remember to bring your Black Gold tote when you inevitably return -- carrying this custom canvas bag gets %10 off your purchase.
Black Gold
461 Court Street
Brooklyn, NY 11231
July 2010
Paper Magazine