Alphaville
![]() Type of Place: Gift Shops Description:
When I'm asked what I like most about writing this column, I say it's
- Pamela Grossman; June 24, 2006
the chance to be the "anti-WalMart": to support wholly independent store owners, designers, and craftspeople who pour their time, energy, and creative passion into their work. Some design handbags, others jewelry; some present blown glass from all over the planet; some sell the best chocolate truffles you could imagine. The folks at Alphaville travel from coast to coast to find toys and artifacts that their eager customers remember well but haven't seen in decades. Though Alphaville's offerings can't quite be described as daily essentials, the warm and personal spirit of stores like this one does seem essential to preserving our city's distinct character. The shop opened in June of 1994, in the location it still occupies: across the street from the Film Forum, another local treasure. Owners Steve and Gary decided to use their passion for flea markets and collecting to create a space where, they explain, shoppers can experience "the pleasure of finding something they grew up with that they thought they might never see again." And shopping here is a pleasure for sure: The displays are inviting, the space is comfortable and not cramped, there's no high-intensity sales pressure, and prices are a lot more reasonable than you might expect. Most items here are from the 1940 to the 1980s. The small girl in me was thrilled to see a set of Archies drinking glasses ($12.95 each). Superman and Star Wars trading cards are bargains, starting at 95 cents each, and cute "flicker" pins (hologram eyes opening and shutting) go for $5.95. Some great vintage fridge magnets are 3 for $3.50; pristine vintage sunglasses start at $11.95. If you're looking to decorate, vintage posters are available from $15. While looking around, my inner late-80s adolescent enjoyed the Depeche Mode CD being played. There's a "wish book" available for customer requests. And of course you can always visit to browse--but be aware that browsing will likely become a purchase when you see what's here.
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