Wish I could leave an actual review, but for a Time Travel Mart that promises to already be…read morewhenever you are, I'm not actually certain if they're open to regular business anymore? I love the Echo Park Time Travel Mart and wanted to give their Mar Vista location a visit sometime while I'm on the west side. Their hours are pretty limited. Google and Yelp claim Friday to Sunday from 12:00-6:00pm, but buried on their own website it says 2:00-6:00pm on Tuesdays to Saturdays. Not sure which is more up to date. But I've gone out of my way on two separate occasions when the hours overlap, and both times they've been closed anyway. Their website does warn they're often closed during their hours and to call ahead, but I haven't gotten an answer. (I guess because they're usually closed?) So yeah, if you can catch them when they're open, great! But I wouldn't advise going out of your way for it unless you can call in advance and confirm they'll actually be open.

If you're coming because you saw this on instagram, please dont set your expectations too high!!…read more I'm really happy I found this place by chance when strolling through the area. Then I saw it on my IG feed weeks later and all I could think was how content creators over-hype all these hidden gems in LA. I just notice that influencers put an exaggerated spin on spots like these to make them seem a lot bigger or crazier than they actually are for the sake of views. Not to say they aren't worth visiting, but I think the fun part about these kinda shops is discovering it for yourself or that element of surprise. I've just been severely disappointed by some places I've visited that didn't live up to the expectations set by content creators. It's not the businesses fault, but just how social media works these days. Anyways, it's a small shop that you'll probably get through in a few minutes, but definitely worth checking out. I'm so glad I so happened to stumble upon this place by surprise, and I hope that's how you find it too :)

very unfriendly staff- interesting how they sell asian/japanese goods (at a whack price point btw)…read moreand only greeted *certain* customers that walked in - and my partner and i definitely don't fall into that group... it was quite hard to look at anything when you felt like you were being watched but at the same time not even acknowledged as a customer. i would suggest going to tokyo central or small businesses in little tokyo/torrance that are more deserving and most of all, FRIENDLY. for the store managers, i suggest teaching the staff a few manners like hi and hello! i hardly ever leave a yelp review for a store, but it truly was such a negative experience

They have some really amazing gifts and home goods in this store, even if it is a bit bougie and…read moreoverpriced.

What a gem of a bookstore…read more Local hangout for Westsiders with tonssss of books, a café, lots of seating, and a children's section. They hold different events as well. I love that they have early hours even on weekends for those of us still up at 7am no matter what. Going in at 8am on a Sunday and seeing others already there? *My people* They have "bar" seating along the windows for working use with bar stools. Laptop/reading seating. They have tables and one BIG table for those enjoying café purchases and for those needing back support *cough cough* me. Village Well is just such a nice place to hangout in if you love books and/or need a place to work instead of home so you don't fall asleep. Anywhere that puts passion into books...is my favorite place.

As a local author, I want to share my experience with Village Well's consignment program so others…read morecan make informed decisions. I placed copies of my books there, including a recent title that had been in the store for less than six months. When I followed up, I was told there had been no recorded sales and that books are subject to removal after a period of time without activity. When I returned to the store, I noticed that much of the "local author" section appeared sparsely stocked, which raised concerns for me about how long books are kept on display and how actively they are supported. To be fair, the store did communicate that: Authors are responsible for following up on sales Shelf space is limited Books may be removed after a certain period However, I think it's important for other local authors to understand that: Placement does not guarantee visibility or promotion You may need to actively check in and market your book yourself Unsold books may be pulled without much notice If you're considering consignment, I recommend having a clear plan to promote your work and staying in regular contact with the store. Just sharing my experience so others go in with clear expectations.

This is my go-to gift shop in town. The selection is beautifully curated, thoughtful without…read morefeeling generic, and I've genuinely never left disappointed. The owner is incredibly intuitive, and has an amazing eye. I always ask for her advice, and she somehow always points me to the right gift for the right person. It makes gift-buying feel effortless and actually enjoyable. If you want something meaningful and well chosen, this is the place.

Amazing stuff! Stopped in for a small kids gift and ended up getting myself a bunch of things as…read morewell. Amazing selection, very well curated, and staff was very helpful and knowledgeable. Highly recommended!!

Great selection of items, including Manga books and Japanese stationery, even books on learning how…read moreto write Japanese characters! Very friendly staff, and very enjoyable atmosphere. They even have a rewards program! I will definitely be going back again!

I love this store, located inside the Mitsuwa market. It offers a great selection of books, pens,…read morestickers, traveler's Notebooks, and many gift items. You can also find Japanese manga and other unique Japanese goods. Their always excellent selection includes blank books, journals, plushies, and cute tote bags. Also, some T-shirts, mugs, mood rings, and coffee mugs. I came in for adult coloring books. Immediately next door, you'll find a market specializing in all Japanese foods and sundry items. This includes fresh sushi to go and shops featuring all kinds of Japanese fast food. After shopping, you can enjoy a meal there--shop, then eat: it's a great plan. Friendly service. Easy to park!

*** No Cash Establishment ***…read more The Ripped Bodice is a woman and queer owned bookstore devoted exclusively to the romance genre (opened in March 2016). This independent bookstore started as a Kickstarter campaign and is believed to be America's first bookstore dedicated exclusively to romance novels. The bookstore was even featured as one of questions on Who Wants to Be a Millionaire? The Ripped Bodice opened a second location in Brooklyn, NY in August 2023. [Parking]: Most of parking structures in Downtown Culver City (ABM Parking at The Culver Steps or Cardiff Parking Garage) offer free parking for the 1st hour. No parking validation from The Ripped Bodice so no additional free parking beyond the 1st hour. [Atmosphere]: You can tell that every corner of the store has been curated and decorated with thought and care. Before entering the bookstore, there is a vending machine selling pins. Near the front entrance, there is a small stage with chairs where the bookstore hosting book signing events. [Selection]: The bookstore specializes in but is not limited to the following genres: romance novels, LGBTQ, sexual health & wellness, fantasy/paranormal, erotica, historical romance, etc. The bookstore also sells merchandise like romance-themed stickers, notebooks, tote bags, and other romance-related items. There is also a bookshelf featuring books autographed by their authors and a bookshelf dedicated to the Heated Rivalry series. [Conclusion]: A really unique and cute bookstore that is an absolute must-visit for romance book lovers.

Cute bookshop in Culver City area. Very nice decor, friendly customer service, great books…read moreselection, supporting LA based indie authors. Big points with me! I wish you could pay cash here. Love options. Parking is a tad hard, but you can conquer. I don't come often in this neck of the woods, so it was a nice discovery!

Having moved to a new location(12801 Venice Blvd) just 5 minutes form their old spot…read more Being one of the fashionable places west of the 405 . Design meets Social Consciousness, Staff is amazing trendsetters with heart. Their are no wrong choices here,stop by and find that gift

I really love their clothes and it's such an amazing brand but the one thing they need to really…read moreimprove on is their customer service online. I'm not sure if it's bc of Covid but they need to be on top of their emails. I've sent emails inquiring about returns and never received a response. Granted you do receive the refund back but they just don't reply to emails even if you have a question about sizing. They need to be stronger in this area especially during this time and all the time actually. Don't send them direct messages on IG either bc it will go unnoticed and unanswered. The best is to call (which I have) if you have any questions. However there are times when calling is not option but sending an email is. I hope they improve on this area of their customer service in the near future. Looking forward to visiting the store when it's safe to reopen.

Another hidden jewel in Los Angeles - chris' cottage is the perfect place for unique gift ideas…read more Chris, the owner is as lovely as they come and so very sweet and helpful. If you need a gift for someone special in your life that doesn't cost an arm and a leg I would come here!! Love this place!!