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After tiring of their jobs, Sommer Foster-Santoro and Jeff Ogiba decided to do something that would make them both happy. The result was Black Gold Records, a record, antique, and coffee shop in Carroll Gardens. The shop is a record store in the truest sense, as all the music they sell is on vinyl, whether it be of the post-punk or soul persuasion. The partners’ selection process is simple: they carry music they like to listen to. But if records aren't your thing, you can enjoy a cup of coffee or two while admiring the store’s collection of antiques. Don’t expect standard "Grandma's house" fare though, for amidst the tin signs and old photographs is nestled an impressive collection of taxidermy. It’s an odd mixture to be sure, but there’s something rather nice about sipping a cup of coffee while browsing for an old De La Soul single and admiring two stuffed squirrels frolicking together. — Bryan Hood

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Best of New York Awards

• Best Record Shop (2012)