Maybe I'm writing about NYC again because Week 10 has me seeing the shiny light of home, or maybe the theory of New Yorkers only ever being able to talk about New York is true.

Either way, here it goes.

Personally, I feel that it is only right to support local businesses, especially in the city. Why, you ask? The simple answer is that the places that look like they are holes in the walls and/or closets are the best places. People who are good at what they do, do their craft behind those broken and distressed doors you may feel inclined to skip over on the street. Whether it be food or goods, small businesses rule. Who needs Starbucks when you have a shoe-box local shop?

1. Yorkafe

This place is tiny, I mean cardboard box- status. It is the perfect place for your Saturday and Sunday morning hangover. Get an iced cappuccino and an egg and cheese on ciabatta. (Pro-tip: they only have ciabatta on the weekends and they expect you to know that, so don't ask during the week.)

2. Cafe Jax

If you've ever needed a place to study that isn't a house or library, this is your place. They have really good coffee (Stumptown) upstairs and then downstairs there are lots of wooden tables, comfy chairs, and even a small outdoor patio, perfect for opening college acceptances (Yes, I did that). One might refer to the decor as chaos, but I like it, it's cozy, cool, and the only place I have ever gotten a research paper done.

3. Wendy Nichol

Leather and jewelry. Need I say more? This shop has two locations, equally as awesome. Wendy herself makes some of the custom jackets and leather wears. The jewelry is edgy- studs, pyramids, and hoops galore. All very unique, all very New York.

4. Fish's Eddy

Do you like Mason Jars? If so, this is the place. If no, go here and you will like them. This place sells mugs, mason jars, and dishes. Don't knock it before you try it, this place is dope. Warning: you may develop a weird addiction to kitchenware, but that's all part of the attraction.

5. The Milton

A quaint little bar that you'd never go into unless someone told you to. I found it because it was raining one day and I needed an awning to stand under. The exposed brick interior and pub vibe make it feel more Oxford, England than NYC. The drinks are cool, and they have grilled cheese. Who doesn't love that?

Now realizing I may have taken a grand risk writing this article as my five favorite places are now exposed. Oh well. Enjoy them.

Sincerely,

Someone who's idea of fun is searching for tiny new places.