Dans Papers - June 1, 2007 - Shopping the Rock

One might think Shelter Island Heights has little to offer - after all, it's only a half-mile strip - but the ambience and goodies make the ferryboat trip well worth it.

A good place to start is on Bridge Street. Bliss' Department Store is a Shelter Island staple. After leaving the store the other day, my older brother mentioned how little it has changed since we first started shopping there over twenty years ago. Supersoakers and Wiffle balls no longer draw us in, but there is an excellent selection of flip-flops ranging from the relatively inexpensive and super trendy Havaianas brand to top of the line Columbia slides. There is also an extensive collection of Shelter Island paraphernalia including cup holders, backpacks, sweatshirts and the very popular Shelter Island map magnet for your car. The magnets sell for $11.95 and are plastered on nearly every resident's vehicle. While sauntering along the sunny streets over the bridge up to Grand Avenue, soak up the atmosphere that is unique to Shelter Island. Enjoy the delightful gingerbread-style architecture that the Heights is famous for, and of course, the clean, sea air of the East End.

You'll soon run into a large, pink house with elegant white trim showcasing a hidden gem of the Island, Marie Eiffel. Marie features impossibly chic linens, leathers and cottons from all over the world, sold at a reasonable prices. She has an impeccable eye for selecting items that one would ordinarily overlook and pairing them with unexpected extras, creating a look tailored specifically for you. I've received more compliments on a handmade Jadeite and gold ring I fell for at her boutique than any other piece of jewelry I've ever worn! She spends time with her patrons, pulling items off the rack that suit their personality. She pays particular attention to detail and the final touches that really "make" the outfit. Marie is a bubbly eccentric and you'll surely remember your visit and leave with fun, new clothes that you won't see other women sporting. For great women's fashion finds, her boutique is a must-stop.

Right next door is antique shop Dworkin and Daughter, known for its superior collection of antiques. The shop features authentic estate and hotel pieces from the 18th through the 21st century. Not everything screams grandiosity, however. There are plenty of charming wicker chairs and perfect tea-sets that will accent the summer place and boast that novelty appeal so coveted on Long Island.

Once you hit Grand Avenue, be sure to stop at the Pharmacy (currently undergoing renovations to restore the 1940s ice cream parlor complete with booth chairs et. al.) for a midday treat. I recommend the Root Beer floats - dieting can be quite oppressive, so don't skimp on this childhood favorite.

Large oak trees shade Grand Avenue allowing for a cool, comfortable stroll. Check out the Coastal Cottage, which offers an array of elegant furniture perfect for the beach house. You can also make an appointment to have the interior of your home decorated or have a consultation with a design expert to pick out a few must-have items for the home. Coastal Cottage is no run of the mill imitation antiques warehouse. You know those fake old beach signs? Aren't they just obnoxious? Their staff offers great ideas like collecting beach glass in large clear jars or painting interesting pieces of driftwood for a creative centerpiece.

Even if you don't end up buying anything - I find this hard to imagine - the walk will give you a feel for the unpretentious charm that separates Shelter Island from the South Fork.