Long Island prides itself on having amazing places to shop, and with holiday season in full swing, it’s good to take note of where these places are. Here’s what voters chose as the top shopping spots in the 2023 Bethpage Best of Long Island contest.
Don’t forget to vote in the 2024 contest!
BEST BOOK STORE
Red Jacket Books
This quaint, independent bookshop on Main Street in Westhampton Beach feeds the souls of book lovers. Founder Ben Vengroff started Red Jacket Books in July 2020 as an online store and more recently branched out to create the brick-and-mortar retail location that’s become such a hit. Locals love to browse the collection and find their next beach read. Whether you buy from Red Jacket Books via its website or in person at the shop, there is a wide selection of genres from children’s and young adult to poetry, historical fiction, and cooking, plus everything else in between. You’ll also find some great apparel and merchandise that any book nerd will enjoy, so stop by Long Islanders’ new favorite bookstore! 77 Main St., Unit D, Westhampton Beach, 631-533-5580, redjacketbooks.com
BEST JEWELRY STORE
From Italy with Love
From Italy With Love has been selling beautiful, high-quality fine jewelry to Long Islanders since 1983. The family-owned business has stunning jewelry for any occasion, whether you’re about to propose, give a gift to a special someone, or need to buy your own jewelry for an upcoming event. The experts behind the counter have decades of experience to help you choose the right look and fit. And From Italy With Love has it all – from engagement rings and bridal settings to tennis bracelets, diamond stud earrings, and designer watches. The jewelry store is best known for the solid craftsmanship of its pieces. So head on down and choose from its impressive selection of designs to find an unforgettable gift for someone special or for yourself! 473 Old Country Rd., Westbury, 516-333-3702, fromitalywithlovejewelers.com
BEST MALL
Roosevelt Field
There are so many awesome stores and things to do at Roosevelt Field, you won’t know where to begin. With more than 200 retail stores and dining options, plus the AMC movie theater, Build-A-Bear Workshop, and Glow Golf indoor mini-golf course, you can spend an entire day of fun at this Simon Mall. The food court has many options and plenty of seating, including outdoors. There are also ear-piercing stands, pretzels stands, and much more. Roosevelt Field is always bustling with groups of friends, families, and couples getting some shopping done, grabbing a bite to eat, and enjoying a true mall experience. It’s no wonder Long Islanders chose it as the best mall! 630 Old Country Rd., Garden City, 516-742-8001, simon.com/mall/roosevelt-field
BEST RECORD STORE
Looney Tunes
Looney Tunes is an independent record store in West Babylon that has been family-owned and -operated since 1971. While the business has a website, they don’t offer their entire in-store stock online and suggest that customers come to the in-store location to see the new releases, preorders, and indie retail exclusives. Looney Tunes carries more than vinyl records and discs; they also offer posters, T-shirts, hats, CBD products, stickers, incense speakers, clocks, and more. The staff is happy to answer questions and help patrons track down specific records. Prices are reasonable, and products can be shipped directly to buyers. Plus the venue features a cool stage in the middle of the store and hosts autograph signing events and performances from artists on a monthly basis! 31 Brookvale Ave., West Babylon, 631-587-7722, ltcds.com
BEST CONSIGNMENT STORE
Remember Yesteryears
Who doesn’t love a good thrift-shopping outing? For used goods that come at low prices, thrifting is the way to go. Depending on what you’re looking for, though, your thrifting trip could be hit or miss. More times than not, a visit to Remember Yesteryears in Oakdale will be a hit because of its wide selection of items, from furniture and jewelry to clothing and military paraphernalia. There is no knowing what you will discover, but one thing is for sure: It is easy to get lost so try to go there with a plan in mind. This store gives you the unique opportunity to shop collections from 120 dealers all under one roof. So take your thrift shopping to the next level and visit Remember Yesteryears! 901 Montauk Hwy., Oakdale, 631-654-3052, rememberyesteryears.com
