A MotherSister Minute: 17 Greene Farm
I have a special affection for Greene Farm, long one of the best places in the neighborhood for organic goods and other tasty stuff not available in your average bodega. Kay Lee and her husband, who also own One Greene Japanese Restaurant and Mirai Wellness Spa, have a knack for identifying business opportunities that offer residents goods and services they usually seek in other neighborhoods. Their next project, Fresh Garden, will attempt to answer the growing demand for popular organic foods and goods, fruits and vegetables, and fresh flowers. At 2,000 square feet, the store will be a mini-market that Mrs. Lee hopes will capture those who would otherwise go straight to Perelandra or Whole Foods. With the new store’s impending opening in a couple of weeks and three thriving businesses to tend to, you might expect Mrs. Lee to have no time to chat — but she savors every opportunity to connect with the community, and she didn’t mind giving me a MotherSister Minute.
OPENED: 1991.
WHY FORT GREENE/CLINTON HILL: We were referred here by a friend at Pratt. We see the potential [of the neighborhood].
BESTSELLING ITEM: Organic milk.
COFFEE SHOP: Actually, I don’t really go to coffee shops. Greene Farm has very good coffee.
ADVICE OR TIPS ABOUT THE NEIGHBORHOOD: I see newcomers around and I always ask, “How do you like Fort Greene?” And they love it here — it feels homey, it’s warmer, comfortable.
17 Greene Farm is at 17 Greene Avenue (718/643-1717), open daily from 7am to 11pm; One Greene Sushi is at 1 Greene Avenue (718/422-1000); Mirai Wellness Spa is at 670 Fulton Street (718/875-0369). Fresh Garden is expected to open at 729 Fulton Street near South Elliott Place by the end of the month.