Maple Syrup, Fancy Soap and Fro-Yo: Three New Stores to Check Out at the Oculus

The Shops at the Oculus (185 Greenwich St.) boast some of the best retail in the neighborhood, and with new storefronts debuting in the last few months, the offerings are now even better. Whether you’re looking for Vermont-sourced treats, a sweet-smelling gift or a tasty pick-me-up on a hot day, here are three new places to check out:

Local Maverick

What if you could get all of Vermont’s best goods…without having to make the journey to Vermont? (Not that Vermont isn’t lovely, but it is a long ride from here.) Enter: Local Maverick, a curated storefront showcasing Vermont products, businesses and destinations. The storefront is part of the greater Local Maverick sales and marketing platform, which supports over 100 Vermont entrepreneurs, farmers, artists and producers, the majority of which make up women-owned or family-run businesses. 

Here, you’ll find offerings from small local brands, including jewelry, glassware, coffee, chocolate and, of course, plenty of maple syrup. You can also peruse brochures from the Vermont tourism board to assist you in trip-planning. And don’t worry — we’ve been assured that a cheese fridge is incoming. (South Concourse, main floor)

Lola Soap

The artisan soap makers behind this mini-chain — with a handful of locations across the country and in Canada — know that soap can be as decorative and whimsical as it is a hygienic necessity. At the brand’s Oculus location, you can score quirky bakery-inspired soaps, body scrubs, bath bombs, sugar scrubs and cosmetics, with realistic-looking macarons, doughnuts, cupcakes and other treat-shaped soap options available for purchase. Please note that the soaps are inedible, though they sure look tasty. (South Concourse, balcony)

Downtown Yogurt

Reports of the frozen yogurt shop’s death have been greatly exaggerated. Fro-yo spot Downtown Yogurt, which has locations in Jersey City and Tribeca, now has an Oculus outpost. Hungry summer shoppers in search of a frozen treat can stop in and load up on a slew of self-serve flavors, with toppings running the gamut from fresh fruit to mochi to M&Ms. Vegan and gluten-free options are available, and yogurt cups are charged by weight. (South Concourse, balcony)