Nubian Heritage

Unfortunately this location is CLOSED! I was so hurt when I took my Saturday stroll over to Nubian Heritage only to discover they had packed up shop and slipped out without any notice :(
When I lived in Long Island I would drive out of my way, pass the Brooklyn location, just to shop here (and grab coffee and cake at their coffee shop).
They had a great jazz set on Sundays and you could always see local Paul Mooney popping in to hold court at one of the side tables. Their fortunes seemed to turn when they eliminated all of their books/​magazines/​local entrepreneur wares and tried to sell high end furniture amid the soaps and oils that they were known for.
The Nubian Crate & Barrel look didn’t fly with the customers and the Spa on the second floor never came to fruition…
*Bummed*

This place is my number one destination for a gift when I am looking for something unique to give a friend or relative. They have a great rotating inventory of books, figurines and other novelty items with an emphasis on African and African American culture. They also have their own in-​house brand of beauty products made with shea butter, candles, incense and oils. In addition, there is a wonderful café called Boma that has special blends of coffee beans and teas. Last time I was there they were also doing wine tastings and had a selection of beers to choose from. During the warm months, the doors swing open onto 5^th Avenue and you have indoor seating with wi-​fi and outdoor seating for people watching. Nubian Heritage has other locations in the outer boroughs. I also like the one in Brooklyn.

When it’s warm out, my two brunch buddies and I like to stroll to Nubian Heritage for a cup of ice coffee, a light snack and conversation. They provide a comfortable sitting area under a wide awning. The people watching is fun, and you’re bound to run into someone you know. In addition to light fare, this really lovely large, airy space sells books, furniture, oils, creams and lotions, cut flowers and probably other product that I can’t remember. There’s also live music on Sundays.