In the West Village try Mxyplyzyk (125 Greenwich Ave., at W 13th St., 212/989-4300) for interesting and quirky gifts and housewares. The bright and cheerful Pylones (61 Grove St., 212/727-2655) is filled with cutesy colorful housewares and office gifts.
For beautiful pottery and chandeliers from the south of France, go to Le Fanion (299 W. 4th St., 212/463-8760). Further East Fishs Eddy (889 Broadway, at 19th St., 212/420-9020) is filled with retro and retro-inspired dinnerware. This shop stocks restaurant and diner overstocks as well as their own line of dishes and glassware.