This new shop is brimming with, well, what you’d expect to find in a mercantile! The key thing here is that it’s NO mish-mosh; the merchandise is thoughtfully selected with an eye to the unusual, handmade, and hard-to-find. From a rack of handy women’s capes (at only $59), to Bed Stu’s handcrafted boots and bags, to plenty of kitchen and cocktail paraphernalia, you’ll be hard-pressed to come away empty-handed. A few standouts: The Aarke carbonator is an elegant take on the Soda Stream and one you can happily leave on your counter. Unique seltzer flavors like Yuzu Basil and Spruce Tonic are available, too. A wall of Smeg toasters, coffee makers, and mixers will have you dreaming of a kitchen update with these high-design appliances. The sturdy Smithey cast iron pans are hand-forged in South Carolina and meant to last for generations (this is the only place in CT that sells them). Great gifts abound, like the Spicewalla spice sets in unique blends, Xilli Salsas and Moles, and cult favorite Runamok Maple Syrup (grab the sparkle version to light up your Sunday pancakes)! Cocktail lovers will ogle the Viski Smoked Cocktail Kit and the set of Bennet Bitters, one sporting an actual scorpion in the bottle (!). This spot is a fun addition to this stellar shopping town.

11 Main Street, Essex

essexmercantile.com