This is probably one of the more interesting gift stores in the stretch of Big Sur along Highway 1. Look for the signage that points to the Nepenthe restaurant (world famous for a sextacular view of the killer Big Sur coastline whilst you wine n' dine with other tourists and locals), and The Phoenix Shop will be at the parking lot level next to the stairs that go up to Cafe Kevah (not open for dinner which offers basically the same view at cheaper prices for burger sandwich type fare).
Phoenix offers a mish mash of everything, from local artisan crafted goods (jewelry, accessories, artifacts), books, cosmetics, instrumental (re: background or tranquil spa type) muzak CDs and of other performing artists of this ilk, toys for the kids, a basement level of nothing but clothing (a must see for the ladies), a mini shelf near the cashier displaying racks of organic chocolate bars (a brand that I think you can find at your local Whole Foods) and in the back, a balcony section of zen themed decorations, statues, water fountains (lots of Buddha statues).
The clothing section downstairs from a quick glance, revealed some really beautifully made dresses and various female apparel. Looky here
http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/M_Ury7qoMoBxKEG6_v_PWw?select=8m18S6kIC7LQuC8SHzyGCA
for a semi blurry snapshot of a dress I snapped, my only useful contribution, easily more elegant than some of Carrie Bradshaw's shall we say mostly TOSSABLE wardrobe during her closet modeling demo of basically "Should I Stay Or Should I Go Now"....(doh hopefully I didn't ruin a spoiler here).
The most remotely amusing item in the toy section was a keychain battery powered device with multiple button presses, each basically executing a pre-recorded compressed sounding voice (using original sounds) of Mr. T (B.A Baracus) himself.
One button: "I PITY DA FOOL!"
Another button: "DAT'S MISTA T! EEEEM! AAAAAAR! PERIOD! TEEEEEEEEE!"
The rest were typical Mr T persona rants that are soooooooooo 80s.
(With the advent of the internet, one can easily find mp3s, youtube, soundbites of this dude). I cannot imagine how this keychain can be Useful, Funny, or Cool.
And this thing was loud. Just trying it out, gave me and my curiosity away. Dag nammit Mister T, keep it down ya fool! No volume control on this thing, just loud.
Now which responsible parent will get this keychain for their child?
Or for that matter, why is this gag toy candidate in the kiddie toy section? DAT MUH FUGGIN SHIZZLE IS NAWT FUNNY YA FOOO!