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Ahab Bowen - CLOSED
Categories: Shopping Fashion Used, Vintage & Consignment Public Services & Government Landmarks & Historical Buildings Used, Vintage & Consignment, Landmarks & Historical Buildings [Edit]
2614 Boll StDallas, TX 75204
Neighborhood: Uptown
(214) 720-1874
- Price Range:
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$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- No
38 reviews for Ahab Bowen
Review Highlights
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"It's clean and organized by color and size." In 3 reviews -
"Ahab Bowen is a top-notch vintage clothing shop." In 13 reviews -
"Their jewelry selection is so much fun just to admire." In 10 reviews
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38 reviews in English
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Review from Angelica N.
Dallas, TX
6/25/2011 4 Check-ins Here
This place is one hell of a quality vintage clothing store. Unlike many places I have gone, there is nothing junky about Ahab Bowen. There is a lot of scrutiny that goes into the clothes that they put out. They are cleaned, pressed, steamed, and cared for.
There is quite a selection here, too! Dresses, hats, tops, skirts, and shoes, along with an amazing array of jewelry and other accessories. Everything is well-organized, so it's easy to find things. I have a few pieces I have bought here, and I love them, including a fabulous mod coat! The clothes are worth the prices here, because of their good quality. If you want a vintage piece meant to last, go here. -
Review from Lindsay P.
Dumfries, VA
5/16/2011
I've traveled across the across going to vintage stores far and wide from San Francisco to LA to New York and this place is up there with the best of 'em. My boyfriend and I are rather picky shoppers and both of us found some things here. They have lots of mens and women's clothing, great costume jewelry and a delightful selection of clutches and bags.
All the articles were very clean and well-organized and in great condition. I could tell the store owner was selective right away. You know when you go to a vintage place and the clothes initially look good on the rack from the side and then you start going through them and half are actually duds? Not here, everything is quality vintage.
Some people mentioned the prices being high, but having shopped in NY and LA, comparable items there would be twice as much. I found the prices to be very reasonable considering the pleasant shopping experience. I'll definitely come back next time I'm in Dallas. -
Review from War H.
Dallas, TX
2/20/2011
Ahab Bowen is a top-notch vintage clothing shop. They are located in Uptown (but we'll forgive them). The shop is in Dallas' oldest house that is still on its original foundation, which is pretty cool. I don't know who they have handpicking all the clothes, but whoever it is, really knows what they're doing. They always have a great selection. If you don't have the patience to go treasure hunting at thrift stores, let Ahab Bowen do the work for you. They'll pick out the gems and offer them at very good prices.
I went in last week, after not having gone in for quite a long time. My target....pants! They were running a great sale and I thought I might try buying some trousers and having them tailored (which I knew nothing about at the time). I asked the ladies working there about tailoring and for their opinions on the pants I was buying. They were SO helpful! I walked out with 3 pairs of pants for about 35 bucks, had them tailored, and they look and fit great. One of the ladies also spent some time with me while I tried to find a nice jacket as well. All of the employees were just exceptionally nice and extremely helpful. I HIGHLY recommend this place if you're into vintage clothes. -
Review from Frances G.
Dallas, TX
1/14/2011
This place can be overwhelming, but in an awesome way. So many fun items of the past. Their jewelry selection is so much fun just to admire. If you feel like having a girly movie montage with 'Pretty Woman' playing in the background then this is the place. The have a vast array of fur coats, fun pea coats, crazy-ass disco suits, everything! Fun shoes to boot!
I don't know what it is about vintage stores but they always come with a funky and fun staff. Well, Ahab Bowen is just that. A fun store accompanied with a fun staff. -
Review from Brenna P.
Urbana, IL
3/23/2011
Such a clean and lovely place! I walked from my hotel downtown and found myself rewarded with three(Three!) Gunnies*. The arrangement of items is so pleasing, so easy (the rainbow of mens' t-shirts: correct order!). The staff were helpful and human, not imposing or cold at all.
I love it~
The prices *are* a bit high, yes. However, my pocketbook fared far better than it would have with similar items on, say, Etsy. Furthermore, their wares aren't crap. If I lived anywhere near Dallas, I'm certain I would stop in at least monthly.
*only two fit well enough to go home with me. TnT -
Review from Jacky S.
Garland, TX
1/5/2011
I recently started a position as a personal assistant and my first "assignment" was to find a white, American Made shirt for my boss. I tried calling 3 vintage stores that I frequent with the same response "we're too busy to look" (I called on a Tuesday around 11) or we don't do searches. So I called tried and true Ahab Bowen (this is where I got my husband's wedding suit) and was greeted by a super courteous employee who searched, found the shirt and put it on hold for me. It ended up being the perfect match for my boss. Thanks so much for making my job easier AB.
For years AB has been the cleanest, friendliest and most well organized vintage store in Dallas and they just keep on going.
Kudos -
Review from Esther O.
Plano, TX
5/11/2011
This is probably one of the best vintage shops you can find in the Dallas area, hands-down. It's got so many selections, especially for the ladies, ranging from the 1920s-present. And I must say, they have some snazzy wear all over the place!
It was really refreshing to be able to see so many vintage pieces, and these aren't rinky-dink type of stuff. This is the real deal.
Wonderful organization, selection, and location! Go have a look if you're ever in need of a shopping adventure(; -
Review from Melody L.
Dallas, TX
Updated - 8/18/2008 1 photo
I figured out why this place is a historic monument. And duh, Mel. The store is named after Ahab Bowen, a farmer who moved to Dallas from Tennessee back in 1861. Built back in 1874, this store was his home and is now one of the last examples of what the farmhouses looked like in Dallas back in the day. So there you go. The more you know.
On to more awesomeness! As soon as you step through the door, you are greeted by the kind employees who tell you all about the sales and specials going on. I just so happened to wander in during the Back To School sale where everything that didn't have a yellow tag on it was half off. Alright! I was good though, I promise.
This store is just set up so neatly. It's so very shop-pable, meaning that the clothes are hung and organized nicely and the accessories and hats fill in the blanks, not clutter the hell out of the space. Rows of vests, cowboy snap-ups, blouses and prom dresses hang from different racks, so it's easy to get around. Check out the killer boots that line the small hallway as you work your way to the boy's section in the back. There are always tons of hats to choose from as well as T-shirts organized by color. The tees usually go for $18, and I think that's a bit cheaper than some other re-sale shops in the area.
Check this place out next time you're in Uptown. It's the cute little house with boa's hanging from the trees. The feather scarves, not the snakes.Listed in: Things to Do When You're Alone…, Places to take your friends…, Shopping in Dallas
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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8/1/2008
I stumbled upon this place after getting my nails DID at Beverly Hills Salon across the street. At… Read more »
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Review from Rich L.
1/7/2011
Not huge into vintage clothing, or really shopping, but stopped by before NYE looking for white pants. Didn't find them but this place has some hot threads and low prices. They had what looked like real prison guard uniform shirts in case your starting a job as one.
Cool historic marker in the front. -
Review from Leigh F.
3/30/2009
Duuuuuuuuuuuudddddeeee...if you haven't checked this place out, then I dont understand you. It's THE perfect Saturday afternoon quick stop to look through some of the most BRILLIANT vintage T's in Dallas, cool jewelry and sunglasses...and if you can fit in the shoes, then by all means....
Seriously..it may not be the GREATEST place for girls to go find a vintage treasure, unless you are looking for bizarre old dresses and weird looking sweaters that barely fit a barbie doll (to each their own)...but it is definitely a treasure chest for guys...even I like to look thru the racks of T's to see if I find a must-have..PLUS their hats and Fedora's.....AWE. SOME.
Go. Look. Laugh. Find that shirt that you will wear every Saturday night out for the next month cause every time you do someone will point and say "DUDE! That shirt is HYSTERICAL! Where on earth did you find it!"......cue your "well there is this brilliant girl on Yelp that wrote a review on this awesome place...."
.....I'll be the one in the guys section wearing the pink Boa and trying on silk smoking jackets...Listed in: That thing called Life
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Review from Laura R.
New York, NY
7/24/2007
Ahab Bowen is the best vintage/resale shop in Dallas. Some of my finds include a great pair of crocodile skin stilettos from Italy, a black Chanel dress and a trenchcoat from Neiman's. Years ago, a friend of mine even bought her prom dress here!
All the clothes are steamcleaned before they go on the racks and everything is hand selected.Listed in: Born to Shop
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Review from Jordan N.
Dallas, TX
1/3/2011
This weekend was the first time i went to ahab bowen. it was in a cool part of town ive never been in and it was generally easy to find. i go to a lot of thrift stores around dallas and i have heard good things so i thought i would check it out.
the store itself is extremely clean and organized and it has a great atmosphere. but the prices kind of ruin the whole thing. i was looking at some of their accessories and i looked at some belt buckles and i wanted to buy one for my boyfriend, but when i looked at the price on the back it said $50! its a cool place to kind of look around but everything was way too expensive. -
Review from Brian G.
5/8/2009
For most guys, shopping for clothes is like kryptonite - it sucks the life right out of us. Likewise, it's an anathema to me so I'm startled to find myself itching to write a review on a vintage clothing shop, but dudes, this place is seriously rad. I have to share the good news.
I've been to many a thrift store or vintage shop and most places are seriously in need of a makeover. For the thrill of the hunt, you can burrow your way through stacks of chattel and uncover the occasional vintage gem or two. At Ahab Bowen, you'll feel like you're winning the lottery with every item you pick out because this place is so neatly organized and the items are all high quality. Stepping into the shop it feels like a boutique store versus a vintage store. In 10 minutes, I had an armful of 70's vintage tops and bottoms. And for those of us uncoordinated fashionistas, Ahab Bowen makes it easy to find your outfit with the labels that mark the genre. This place has an awesome selection of 70's and 80's period outfits. And unlike every other store, they don't skimp on guy's selections - there are two whole rooms dedicated to guy's clothes.
The folks who man the shop are uber friendly. Even though I snuck in 10 minutes before closing time, they stayed open late and didn't rush me as I tried on outfits. They have as much fun helping you out with your outfit that it felt like I was shopping with some girlfriends. It was actually sorta fun...hold the phone, did I just say shopping was fun?? Get a hold of yourself Brian. Seriously, Ahab Bowen is one of the very very few places I would admit saying I enjoy shopping for clothes. Finding parking can be tough sometimes, but this place is worth it. -
Review from Courtenay P.
Oak Cliff, Dallas, TX
7/9/2010
I LOVE this place. I am big into vintage clothing, and this is one of my favorite places to go in Dallas.
First off, the quality is excellent. I have found so many amazing pieces from here that were in pristine condition.
The store is also laid out in a way that makes it easy to shop. It doesn't seem like there is a lot of clothing in the women's section, but it seems like there is always a lot of good stuff from among what is there. And I prefer that to having to sift through a load of stuff to find one good piece.
The prices are VERY good for vintage, and there is a different color tag each day that is 25 - 50% percent off. I have gotten some gorgeous things for a steal because of the daily sale.
I have always found the sales associates to be helpful but not too helpful.
This is my place to go to find something awesome that no one else will have. I love it. -
Review from Ariza S.
3/16/2009
I'm so sad I found out about this place so late! First of all it's walking distance from my apartments which is a plus because the parking is kind of complicated. Secondly, I am simply in love.
Their selection of hats and accessories are fabulous. I bought a really cute hat that I ended up wearing all weekend. Their men selection is surprisingly stacked. They had a ton of t-shirts and button ups but sort of lacked in the bottoms and shoes.
Lets just say my wallet is bare but I will definitely be returning!
ArizaListed in: Big Spenders of the Big D shop…
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Review from Steven H.
4/26/2010 1 Check-in Here
Ahab Bowen.
My wife liked all the boas that were hanging out in the front lawn, and had stated she had always wanted to go in, but it was usually closed when ahe was nearby. So I guess it can be limited hours.
On the Inside, there are 4 bedroom-sized rooms with jewelry and vintage clothing. The clothing seemed fairly priced. The dressing room doubles as the bathroom so there's a big bonus!
I was nearly finished checking out at the register with Lainey when I noticed the men's section in the big room in the back -- hadn't even seen this. A lot of very cool re-threads, however some of it was a bit meh. There were some hats I coud *swear* I just saw in Target. I think this place is cool -- but more so for the ladies.
All in all pretty cool place for nicer vintage threads. -
Review from Scott L.
2/20/2010
Probably the coolest thing about this place is the house, it's named after the guy who used to live in it. There's a historical marker in front of the house outside. The second coolest thing is the selection of vintage clothes. Some of it's very cool, some of it's almost like thrift, and basically if I'm going to pay $40 for a shirt I'd probably rather get it new.
My friend was dressing up for a 50's Hollywood party, and they hooked him up, although I had to do a little pushing. Cool staff, but maybe a little too cool. -
Review from Glenn S.
9/27/2009 2 Check-ins Here
Since I was raised by a thrift store queen, I have been in my share of second-hand stores over my lifetime. Ahab Bowen is perhaps the nicest where a regular person (non-millionaire) could actually find something useful and affordable.
My sweetie and I went looking for vintage clothes (19402 through early 60s) one Saturday. Although I didn't think that they had much for me, the staff found several gems for her. They were extremely helpful, offered suggestions and recommended accessories that matched her new acquisitions. Great service, friendly attitude.
So why 4 stars? Well, for women I would rate it 5 all the way. For men, I would say 2. The clothes really were limited to 70s and 80s, mostly western shirts and T-shirts. However, I would recommend visiting them regardless of what your needs are. They will steer you some place else if they don't carry your item and you will have fun browsing. -
Review from Christina P.
Hackensack, NJ
4/18/2010
It was fine, as far as thrift stores go. Not the biggest selection, but everything was neat, clean, and organized and priced averagely.
Staff seemed friendly enough. There was actually a little dressing room area for trying on clothes, which is something not all thrift stores have, especially one this small.
The most impressive thing about Ahab Bowen was the jewelry selection. LOTS of jewelry and stuff that people might actually wear.
And I agree with Scott L... the history behind the house makes it that much more interesting. Check it out. -
Review from Whitney P.
Dallas, TX
2/9/2011
This place has some of the best, most unique jewelry in Dallas. They also have some awesome funky clothes, but be sure to catch them when they are having a sale. I've gotten some amazing pieces here.
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Review from Tracie R.
Dallas, TX
2/10/2010
This place is a treasure chest! Whoever buys or chooses the clothes, shoes & accessories really has a great eye! I was searching for Western Shirts for the hubby and I found 5 amazing shirts, in immaculate condition, 2 of them on sale! I got all 5 for $86, just about what you would pay for one shirt at Sheppler's, And these shirts have character and are well made.
Bravo!
The staff was great, helpful and knowledgeable, This place is a gem! -
Review from laura n.
Dallas, TX
2/18/2009
i got a little teary-eyed when i walked in here. by the time i saw the selection of sunglasses and accessories, i was a total wreck.
as diana mentioned, they tag their items according to era, which i really appreciate. i've only seen maybe 5 other places that do this.
i'm a big fan of pencil skirts, and they abound at ahab-bo. i like. also, if you're in the market for a silk kimono-style robe, they've got that on lock. i might be going back tomorrow to check on that. seriously.
i thought the men's selection had some interesting finds, from what i saw, but my roommate assures me that ahab bowen is "better for women than it is for men." whatever, that doesn't effect me, so i'm keeping it at five stars. next paycheck, i'll be there.
oh! and they have tag sales and specials! you can sign up for a mailing list to keep you informed of sales. i know, i know. "if you're buying something because it's on sale, you're not really saving money." i don't give a fuck! -
Review from Sendai B.
Dallas, TX
2/17/2011
This place is a total hit or miss. Some days you can find SUPER COOL jewlery, other days they have nothing worth your time. Same goes w/their handbags. Their clothes? Gah, I almost never find anything that I like there as far as clothing. But it IS a retro/vintage resale shop.
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Review from cindy c.
San Francisco, CA
9/10/2008
this is how every shopping experience should be! the store is immaculate-- clean, organized, fresh and the service is awesome!
on the vintage aspect, it's a pretty small store, but like i said, it's organized, so i came away with more that i have ever gotten at any other vintage store twice its size and volume. and it also helps that their selection of vintage clothing is AWESOME!
i love this place! -
Review from Nickie G.
8/23/2008
Continuing on my vintage shop (and copy Melody hehe) journey, I went to Ahab Bowen. Allllrighty, here's another great vintage store, but it is focused on clothes and accessories only. In the front you will find purses, jewelry, sunglasses, and even belt buckles. Where was that blinged out dollar sign belt buckle when I was getting ready for my 80s hip hop party??? Then there's a large selection of womens clothes perfect for a dress up party and even some items you might wear now. I did manage to buy some cute shoes there too for $12, The guys section is also huge...don't miss the T shirt section with all those old band T shirts you know you want. The coats were also rockstar, I am SO going back to get me another vintage coat as soon as it gets cold in oooh say for that week in February.
Listed in: Vintage Madness
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Review from Chris G.
Dallas, TX
5/26/2009
It was love at first site. I have been shopping here for years! As the owner of Christopher Box Ventures, I respect all the work it takes to make this place look effortless. It's clean and organized by color and size! I have gotten some the coolest shoes and shirts ever! I am still in love with my royal blue Levis jacket circa 1982.
Listed in: Born to Shop
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Review from Shazoo R.
Argyle, TX
1/9/2009
A guy will walk in thinking it's only a Women's clothing but the staff will inform you of their large Men's selection in the back. I was surprised to find my size of belts and blazers. I don't know where they source their items from but they're good at it. Courteous sales people. Fun Music! A little hard to find as it's a converted house which is normal for the block.
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Review from Gabriel S.
Dallas, TX
3/21/2010
This place is ultra ultra. The clothes are in great condition and the employees are excellent at helping you work out an ensamble that's sure to make you pop more than any pop star I know. Seriously. If you want to add some character to your wardrobe or accessorize that boring fit, ask anyone there. I promise this is your stop.
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Review from kevin s.
Mesquite, TX
10/16/2009
i really do like Ahab Bowen, just not their prices. A t-shirt for $20? hell i paid $25 for a NEW Radiohead t-shirt when they were here last year. i've bought some things there over the years because they were witty or whatever but blowing money like that now just doesn't make sense. The staff are very polite and always ready to help. They do have the pink tags which are half off so thats a plus. They have a zero return policy so you better be in love with it cause they won't take it back. overall they have some good vintage stuff but its geared more towards women than men.
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Review from Jesselyn T.
Fort Worth, TX
8/17/2009
I have been to my share of vintage boutiques and Ahab Bowen is one of my favorites. Since finding it, I try to stop by at least once a week to see what new merchandise they have in. Their clothing is as immaculate as vintage can get. Each piece has their decade cataloged on it. Although not every piece is amazing (and yes, I know amazing is a matter of opinion) one can most certainly find something each time one stops in. Everything is very well priced, you will find nothing over $100 rarely anything over $80. And if you ask nicely, they have a small but great collection of wedding dresses they keep in the back.
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Review from T. L.
El Cajon, CA
7/30/2009
As good as a vintage store can be, and better! Honestly, they had me at the front door. Located in a cute little bungalow, the first sample of clothing I see is an adorable vintage swing dress in an immaculate gingham and a lovely blue floral party dress. Although the shop isn't spacious it holds an extensive selection of dresses, blouses, skirts, purses, t-shirts, you get the idea. The prices were extremely reasonable. I picked up quite a few quality items for pennies compared to what I pay in San Diego. The owner and shopgirl were also so friendly and helpful. There's that southern hospitality I've been hearing about!
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Review from Nick F.
Dallas, TX
1/13/2010
This place is a great place for purchasing interesting and unique used clothing. The owners here are exceptionally nice and usually there and very helpful. They put their merchandise on sale by what color tag that is used and that's where you can get your amazing deals.
I've been there twice and I got a great pair of 70's navy blue bell bottoms with great details down the leg. I also got a wool pea coat that was issued to a service man (most likely navy) for a great price. I found one similar at Dolly Python and I paid about 75% less at Ahab Bowen.
With that said, the items here aren't selling for one to two dollars. The owners have great taste in clothing and have found the gems for you so you are paying the fee of them gathering great vintage clothing so you'll pay about 10-30 dollars per item. It's really not a lot of money though when you consider the quality of the items you get here when compared to places like mall stores. You also don't have to worry about 20 other people walking down the street wearing the exact thing.
If you appreciate vintage clothing, this is THE place in Dallas to go. Highly highly highly recommend it. Or don't go actually, so there will be more for me. -
Review from Birgit G.
Dallas, TX
3/23/2010
I finally visited this store over the weekend after driving by so many times over the years, giving notice to the feather boas hanging from the front porch. I walked in and was instantly impressed. I found what I was looking for in the short 30 minutes that I had prior to closing time. I left happy and plan to come back in the near future. (I felt that the staff was a little on the exasperate side due to my last minute arrival)
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Review from patrick I.
Round Rock, TX
7/3/2009
I almost bought some 1970s zip up boots. Fun clean place to find some great clothes. Prices were amazing!
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Review from Karrie I.
Fort Lauderdale, FL
5/30/2009
I can imagine the owners/staff of Ahab Bowen must be super anal-retentive about cleanliness & order, because this store is immaculate! Seriously, everything is organized by color & is neatly & perfectly placed upon the display tables & hung upon the racks (which makes it super easy to find that specific piece you might be looking for). I actually almost felt guilty about touching anything. However, touch I did! I found the perfect cowboy boots hidden away in a corner, but unfortunately, they made my legs look short & stout so I left without them (sad face). I didn't spend as much time looking around as I would've liked because I was with the boyfriend & he got through his section faster than I could get through mine. I can say though that they did have a bunch of nice looking duds, but more so just straight-up vintage instead of crazy retro vintage (at least from what I could tell in the women's sections). I must make mention of the pink bathroom because it was really clean & really pink, which fyi, is my fave color! I also loved all the boas hanging in the front yard & porch! I'll pay a visit to this cute store again fo' sho'!
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Review from kyle c.
Denton, TX
9/17/2009
my favorite store in Dallas hands down. immaculate, unique, and the staff is so friendly. i TREASURE everything I've ever bought here. its such a great mix of vintage and new. the jewelry is to die for! i always have to sneak into the men's part to check out their amazing hat selection. I've been shopping here since i moved to Dallas from the east coast 15 years ago. it was my favorite then and it still is now!
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Review from Claudia K.
Dallas, TX
12/15/2009
Not impressed with selection or prices.
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Review from rachel p.
Duncanville, TX
8/24/2008
i absolutely love this store. i can see why every review on here is 5 out of five stars. sometimes they dont have everything you want, but most of the time, its aces high.
