There is a cake store run by a Japanese patissier in DUMBO, a popular tourist spot in Brooklyn. Located on the first floor of an old building at the foot of the Brooklyn Bridge, Burrow is a well-known store among those in the know, and the name "Burrow" means a small cave where foxes and rabbits live. With no signage, one might be tempted to walk past the shop due to its lack of presence, but once inside the building, one can see that the shop is constantly visited by customers, indicating that it is well-liked by the locals. The white interior has a solid impression of cleanliness with no unnecessary decoration, and the showcase next to the cash register is always stocked with freshly made cakes, cookies, and scones. The cookies are available in many varieties and are priced at a pleasant $5 for two. The Mont Blanc is a little expensive at $8, but the meringue base is crispy and the melt-in-your-mouth cream is surprisingly well-balanced and satisfying. The pastries are freshly made every morning, and strawberry shortcake can be purchased in whole portions if you make a reservation in advance. Hours of operation are limited to Tuesday through Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., so be sure to check back when you visit!

Blank Street is a New York coffee start-up that was born out of a partnership between one NYU and one Columbia University student. The duo is innovating ways to cut unnecessary costs, while still serving up the quality and experience of other boutique coffee shops. Their brick-and-mortar spaces are super tiny, and often portable, and their espresso machine automatic, rather than manual. This allows them to sneak their mobile storefronts into already developed, trending spots, and not waste exorbitant costs on training staff. The Dumbo location features one of their zero-emission, mint-colored carts and is set in a green space with public seating.