Straddling the boundary line separating the Highlands and Germantown neighborhoods, Barret Avenue has become its own microcosm of the eclectic areas it borders. The stretch between Winter Avenue and Highland Avenue is particularly dense with places to sp/files/storyimages/an afternoon hoofing it for shopping, dining and drinking. Here are some of the highlights:
Step into the industrially decorated Monkey Wrench (582-2433) and munch on something unusual like fried asparagus or pirogies with chorizo. Nearly daily music acts range from DJs spinning ’60s garage rock to a bluegrass brunch on Sundays, with just about everything in between.
The Deal (479-1000) is a buyer and seller of mid-century art, furniture, home accessories and even clothing. Amid the hodgepodge you may find an original sunburst wall clock mounted next to a vintage handbag. Beware of limited hours — the store is only open Wednesday through Saturday.
Dark windows glowing with beer signs announce the Barret Bar (458-9640). More subdued than the across-the-street Monkey Wrench, this is your typical dimly lit corner bar, and a great place to grab a heat-beating brew.
Concentrating on vintage clothing and accessories (for the home, too) from the ’40s-’70s, Nitty Gritty (583-3377) is a treasure trove of unique vestments. You’ll also find costumes from even further back — gangster suits, flapper dresses — perfect adornments for a theme party.
Around the corner on Kentucky Street, Quills (459-4245), a quiet, comfortable coffee shop, is a joint effort of two brothers who love books and beans. A number of interesting titles are for sale, all java is provided by Germantown neighbor Sunergos, and tasty treats are available from local bakeries.
Not your grandmother’s gift shop, Regalo (583-1798) offers everything from kitschy cards and ashtrays to indispensable bar accessories. One room houses children’s delights, and another has presents for your favorite pooch.
Chez Moi (561-6206) is a multi-tasking art gallery. Filled with contemporary paintings, sculpture, jewelry, greeting cards and gifts, the gallery also touts itself as a performance-art venue as well as a provider of mural services and foreign-language lessons.
