Los Angeles' Best Affordable Gift Shop 2008

It’s all in the alt-reading family at this Fairfax bookshop that brims with independent spirit.

Tips: The store regularly hosts intimate musical performances—call ahead of time or just drop in on any given night for a little noise with your prose.

Family

By not specializing, this gallery/boutique/gift shop manages to stock something for nearly everyone—as long as that someone appreciates style.

Reviews:

• “A little secret in Silverlake”
• “Great store for gifts!”

Tips: Visit the tea room behind the register, where a sample of the day’s special tea is always piping hot and free.

Clover

A Hollywood trifecta of all things cool—tchotchkes, books and art.

Reviews:

• “best toys in town”
• “Groovy Store”
• “One of a kind store!”
• “Best novelty gift-shopping in LA”
• “Hollyweird Cool”

Tips: There’s no lot here, so grab a handful of change and keep your eyes peeled for a meter.

Wacko

This fiercely independent Los Feliz bookseller hosts a continuous schedule of in-store readings and book clubs.

Reviews:

• “Love it!”
• “Cozy Indy Bookstore "
• “really helpful staff … and a bookstore cat!”
• “support great local store”
• “Best “ma and pop” book store in L.A."

Tips: Skylight Books hosts numerous book groups that meet regularly in the store, only one of the many reasons why it is the best place to find tomorrow’s hot authors today.

Skylight Books

For both kids and adults, shopping for gifts here is as fun as receiving gifts from here.

Reviews:

• “random gifts”
• “Good for gifts, costumes”

Tips: Whatever you’re into-practical jokes, poop gags, retro style, tasteful cool-it’s all under one roof at this wacky funhouse.

Aahs

Sawtelle’s mellow makeup store is also host to a plethora of Japanese treasures for the home.

Reviews:

• “Looking for Japanese merchandise? This is the place to shop.”

Satsuma Imports

Contemporary designers inspired by mid-century style star in this cozy gift emporium packed with cool treats for tots and adults.

Reviews:

• “Contemporary Design Store”

Tips: Watch for the discount shelf, just inside the door to the right, where last season’s goodies are available for as much as 50% off retail.

Yolk

Go down by the L.A. river to save big on designer overstock furnishings and household items from trendy to traditional.

Reviews:

• “Horrible Experience”
• “Worst Customer Service”
• “Stay away”

Tips: The Dock is hard to find, so bring a map and look for the signless lime green and brick building opposite the R.W. Zant Co.

The Dock Downtown

The place to go for nutty gifts that’ll bring a grin or a gasp to the lucky recipient.

Reviews:

• “Kitschy Cool”

Tips: Call before going; this store doesn’t always stick to its advertised business hours.

Y-que Trading Post

Unusual gifts and furniture from Indonesia, Europe, India and South America, plus custom mosaic-topped tables made with the client’s collaboration.

Reviews:

• “Fantastic Furniture store”
• “Great home furnishings!”

Tips: Officially the lot is for the restaurant next door, but as Furthur closes before it opens, customers may try for a spot.

Further

Punked-out unisex fashion, motorcycle gear and the occasional used bike are on offer in this oh-so-Echo-Park lifestyle shop.

Reviews:

• “Worst Motorcycle Shop In Los Angeles”

Tips: Browse the small, selective new CD selection for an education in lesser-known old school California punk, like the Dils and Catholic Discipline.

Anti-Market

Powered by Citysearch