CNN features a story on a “new” phenomenon: the local chain. And what better area to focus on than Smith Street, where Patrick Watson and his wife Michelle Pravda have a mini-empire with Smith & Vine, Stinky Bklyn, and the Jakewalk. Also mentioned in the story is Loretta Gendville, owner of the area chain of stores.
On a Thursday night at The Jakewalk, patrons say loyalty to Smith and Vine and Stinky Brooklyn was the main reason for them choosing The Jakewalk for a drink. “I know the quality of what we’re eating and drinking will be great here by buying their products at their stores,” say’s Sara, a 20-something living in the neighborhood.
Caroline, another local resident, told us that it’s the personal touches that attracted her. “When you get to know personalities and you know that somebody owns this shop and they’re doing one project here and one project there. It’s great! You want to check it out.”
They’ve done a great job. All three of those places have been excellent additions to the neighborhood. I would point out, though, that Jakewalk opened several months before the stock market decline, not after.
This same story was covered by the Times a couple months ago. And it was an old story THEN.
Those were my thoughts exactly, Brooks.