Open the door to Zaidi’s NYC, and you’ll feel like you’ve taken a step back in time.
Sammy Levin, owner of the local business, restores unique items such as fully-functional vintage lighters and smoking accessories, as well as old-school candy and vintage magazines. She keeps the history of craftsmanship alive while offering a fun, welcoming space for the local community — including free outdoor chess and board games.
The search for unique, curated treasures in NYC is a constant hunt, a desire to find a piece of history that still holds meaning today— something that’s not lost on Levin.
Zaidi’s NYC explores the art of restoration and curated history
Zaidi’s NYC is a true destination for collectors and anyone who appreciates vintage craftsmanship.
Sammy’s passion for vintage lighters and smoking pieces is a heartfelt tribute to her grandfather, Zaidi (whom the store is named after), who is a lifelong collector of beautiful Art Deco lighters, a nod to her roots that’s obvious inside her storefront.
The guiding philosophy is simple: everything that someone carried in the past had meaning, and nothing was disposable. Sammy personally restores everything in the shop, ensuring that every piece is fully functional before it’s sold, setting her apart from her competitors.
The process of acquiring these vintage pieces is an adventure in itself, involving online estate sales and exploring places like Pennsylvania and its Amish communities, known for their smoking culture. After being in business for about three years, the shop has also built a following of people who now send their finds directly to Levin.
It is her goal to maintain a fun and welcoming space that fosters community, so why not make a stop for yourself to see what it’s all about?
📍 139 Division St
🗓️ Wednesday through Sunday
⏰ Noon to 7pm