Whether you’re gift hunting for an extended relative or a close friend, Pitman has everything you need for a gift for everyone on your list. The town has long been a beacon of fashion, food, and arts. The shops downtown are on or near Broadway, all within walking distance, and many storefronts have hand-painted windows decorated for the holidays. As a Pitmanite all my life, allow me to show you some of the many great shops and eateries I’ve come to know and love while living in Pitman.
Scarecrow Factory and Sunflowers Dressing Room
On the corner of Broadway and 2nd Avenue, this two-in-one clothing and trinket shop has just about all of the cute clothes, novelty pieces, and adorable little stocking-stuffers one might need. Most of the store’s products are handmade, with each section filled by the craft of a different artist. The Sunflowers Dressing Room side sports unique clothes: casual wear in charming fabrics and patterns to statement formal wear. Not to mention the themed bath essentials, jewelry, trinkets, and mini stationery which make perfect little gifts to stuff a stocking.
Fig Leaf Thrift
This cozy little thrift store nestled underneath Pitman’s First Baptist Church has been a part of the community since the 1960s. Since it reopened in March 2021, it’s become a hub for both donation and shopping. During the holidays, Fig Leaf is loaded with holiday-themed trinkets. Taking the time to look around the small space, I found toys for all ages, books, puzzles, games, appliances, all types of clothes, and decorations. Consistent donations means the merchandise is constantly changing, so I never know what I’ll find unless I go back to explore.
Chosen
Formerly “Chosen by Stephanie,” this apparel shop is the go-to for gifting trendy clothes. From stylish casual wear like sports-themed sweatshirts, comfy jeans, and cozy sweaters to beautiful dresses and sheer, embroidered overshirts, Chosen is stocked with choices for any trendy style. All of this and accessories like jewelry, perfume, and wallet bags will be sure to leave any trend-setting gift recipient stylish and comfortable this holiday.
Words Matter Bookstore
Taking a walk down Broadway, I returned to this local gem, Words Matter Bookstore. This hub of all things reading has an extensive fiction and nonfiction selection, including new releases by new and established authors, popular romance releases, cooking and craft books, and highlights of local authors. If a friend of mine would rather not get a physical gift, I could “give” them a warm, welcoming reading community by introducing them to a wide range of book clubs, from “Bump in the Night” and “True Crime” to “Fiction Addiction” and “Kiss and Tell.”
Fahrenheit Ceramic Studio
Near the corner of Broadway and Holly Avenue, Fahrenheit provides the opportunity to create a personal, one-of-a-kind, hand-painted gift. I simply pick out a ceramic dish, sculpture, or ornament, choose paint colors, then paint it myself within the place’s cozy, inviting atmosphere. The in-house kiln will heat the glaze to perfection. After I pick it up, it’s heated to a shine and ready to giftwrap.
Pizzeria Manninos
At the opposite end of the downtown area, there’s Pitman’s wood-fired pizza place, Pizzeria Manninos. The warm, rustic feel of the place enhances its quality Italian food made with fresh ingredients. Pizza, salads, antipasti, and panini dishes made with their homemade mozzarella make for an authentic Italian dinner and experience for family and friends.
Merryman’s Pub
Once an old bank, Merryman’s was revived into a pub and became a town centerpiece with a grand space and atmosphere. Being the first restaurant in Pitman to serve alcohol, it hosts extensive beer, wine, and cocktail selections, along with delicious, upscale bar and diner food. Having dinner and drinks in such a historic building, decorated with lights and wreaths for the holidays, creates a perfect environment for a date or night out with friends.
Milkweed Table + Market
Before a new day of gift hunting, I’ll have some brunch at Milkweed, Pitman’s only dedicated brunch restaurant. Dine in or eat outside next to planted greenery, and enjoy anything brunch: loaded french toast and seasonal-flavored pancakes to cheesesteak egg rolls and grilled cheeses. I’ll top it all off with a seasonally crafted drink, and I’m all set to feel refreshed for a day of shopping.
Popperia
One of the newest businesses in town, Popperia not only sells specialty popcorn, donuts, and sodas, but holds movie nights as well. Customers can mix and match their fully customizable popcorn, donuts, and soda menus while enjoying a holiday movie during this time of year. Their merch, which includes sweatshirt and tumblers — printed with their adorable popcorn mascots — make a perfect gift or souvenir of gift-hunting in Pitman.
