On a mobile device? Try our mobile site, optimized for faster browsing.
Category: Comic Books [Edit]
Neighborhood: Hayes Valley
Tue-Fri. 11:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Sat-Sun. 11:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Loading...
I don't really know how to explain this without sounding like a poser but half the reason I read comics (ONLY HALF, OKAY?) is because I'm really into nerdy looking dudes who understand the difference between their, there, and they're. I'm into guys who read comics. I'm into them. I find them very attractive.
Now that we got that out of the way... I was surprised when I accidentally stumbled into Isotope.
Why? Many non-comic reading (or buying, rather) folk would assume that this is just another comic store. Far from! ALL comic book stores smell like online gaming and look like dogshit. I'm sorry, but they do. And you know what? That doesn't bother me! But it should be noted that that's the norm for comic book store design.
Isotope successfully designed a BEAUTIFUL comic store that is SUPER BADASS and would MAKE STAN LEE proud. It is AWESOME. Plush red sofas, lots of metal, it's sexy. It reminds me of a 1957 Dodge Coronet (this one: http://www.dodgecorone...).
But anyway, I DO really appreciate the fact that Isotope takes the "we're grown-ups" approach to design and actually TRIES to make it a nice place to visit. Because, well, it IS a nice store to visit.
If I were more comfortable around that many cool dudes I would have gladly curled up on one of their red sofas (see photos) and read some B+W crime novel or tried to talk to a hottie about how I really like Brian Wood and his style, how he is kinda like a new, hipster version of Transmetropolitan, etc. But I digress.
Isotope gets 5 funtastic stars. I love it and I can't wait to go back! Maybe I will score a date (or at least some Halo Jones).
When you walk into Isotope, you walk inside one man's dream. And that man is a kindly comic-book supervillain.
You should go here because it is completely awesome.
Isotope has kind & knowledgeable staff, one-of-a-kind events, and fantabulous selection. I feel lucky I don't live closer to to this comic-book lounge or else it would take all my money, just like a good supervillain should.
Recommended? = Thoroughly recommended.
I was going to Isotope when it was located in the Sunset. What makes this different from other comic book stores? James. He is NOT like the comic book guy in the Simpsons. He's the friendly professor with great wardrobe, yet a true enthusiast and expert to the core.
His shop is not some sad nerd dungeon of death. It's very modern and inviting. Like walking into an IKEA store. Everyone seems to fit in here.
Tell him what kind of comics you like and he will give you a spot on recommendation. Even if you are reading a comic book for the first time, tell him what kind of stories you like and I swear he show you something that you will most likely enjoy.
Every time I go in there he's super friendly and will invite you to whatever dope party he's going to later on that night. My favorite comic books of all time were discovered because of James and from reading the rest of the reviews, there are a lot of people who feel the same way.
Isotope is the BOMB! I come here and stay for hours -they never kick me out!
Buy your comics here!
Isotope is the most awesome comic book shop I've been to. There is tons of space to browse around. Stocked with tons of issues mainstream (DC, Marvel, Image, etc.) as well as local and indie comics. I was able to find a rare Jeff Lemire "Lost Dogs" there on the shelf, there were two!
James the owner is an awesome guy. It's inspiring and amazing to see someone (James) own a business that he truly loves. Storm, probably the coolest person I've ever met and Kirsten (a published writer of graphic novel SMOKE & GUNS) are very helpful and knowledgeable as well. Picking up my issues from Isotope is one of the treats I look forward to on the weekends.
Oh yeah, James throws the best comic book related parties ever. So visit the site once a month just to see when the next party and who is going to be there.
James I am like mad-crushing on you dood.
Still recovering from one of the coolest-comics related events ever at of all places...Bloomingdales..and yes it was orchestrated by the player-pro(prietor) of Isoptope himself.
I was dumbfounded hearing from him directly that this was his first out of store event as everything seemed to be just so damn smooth. The 75th anniversary extravaganza of DC Comics (headed by the umbrella Co. Warner Bros) is a partnered tour through Bloomingdale's across the US and with various creative talent involved.
We were lucky enough to get SF's own scribe extraordinaire, James Robinson (Justice League, World of New Krypton, Blackest Night: Superman /JSA / Starman) who was beyond friendly, openly chatting on the passion of storytelling with avid readers and new-comers to this game.
The exclusive, vintage-DC inspired threads were dope and the visual merchandisers killed it, on-point, bringing out the most fab-coolness from this geeky pastime of comics.
Everyone was happy cos of the nice beats, tasty batman inspired cocktails and just overall sexiness of this handcrafted comic-chic soiree.
Check some of the snappy's here- http://www.flickr.com/... and http://twitpic.com/pho...
By far one of the more captivating shops I have been in to being it is in the always sunny Hayes-… Read more »
Isotope rocks! The store and selection are fantastic, but the real reason to stop by is James: One of the most charming and nicest guys I've met, and certainly the most enthusiastically passionate and knowledgeable comics lover I've met. He can answer any question about almost any title and he makes killer recommendations. And he's a snappy dresser with awesome hair. Seriously, though: They can get you anything, they're totally passionate, and they're worth your time and dollar. I stop by every time I'm down from Portland. Oh: Be sure to check out the zines and indy comics upstairs!
Recently my sister and I have been learning more about comic books because of our friend Matt who writes them. So, this past Saturday we went here for an event they were having.
I had past by this place several times and never thought twice about it Now after finally going in and meeting James the owner as well as chatting with artist and looking at the comic books, I'm a fan!
Can't wait to go back there and buy my first comic book. Also, you must check out all the toilet seats that comic book artist have drawn on, very cool!
Way back in the day when I was young I wrote a brief review of Isotope and I held onto the elusive 5th star as James (the owner) doesn't wear his Dr. Strange outfit on a daily basis and this minor detail kept this place from being perfect. Actually it was due to the lack of back issues. But let's not shit ourselves, the fact that they don't have boxes and boxes of old comics keeps this place from looking like... well my garage.
Back issues be damned, this is a five-star comic shop. It's easily cooler than a comic shop needs (maybe deserves) to be. They have a healthy dose of indie books mixed with all the mainstream titles that you are looking for and will guide you to something of your liking should you ask. Another nice touch is that if they don't like a book, they will let you know. How novel is that? I have yet to go to one but I hear they have great in-store signings that are 1 part business mixed with 3 parts party and a dash of alcohol. I'm going to try and experience one of these soirees tomorrow night...
On top of all that, their love of comics is infectious which means it's overly easy to get wrapped up in a conversation about books new and old and spend much more time in the shop than you expected to. I picked up a book from here today that I had already been to two other shops looking for (DC Wed. Comics!! Still looking for Sherlock Holmes # 2... *raises fist angrily in the air*) and remembered how much I really dig this spot. Need to come here more often.
The End.
When I walked into Isotope, the first thought I had was, "I can't wait to bring my wife here." That… Read more »
Not just a nice, clean, easy-going comic book shop. No. Much more. Isotope is a great benefit to the very idea of comic books. They don't stash the books in musty shelves or stuff them in endless rows of boxes. They're proudly displayed and easy to find. They treat the comics and the customers with respect, which shouldn't be so rare in the comic book world, but it is. The staff is friendly, ready to answer any questions you may have, and willing to place special orders at the drop of a hat. They will even call or email you when your order arrives.
If you think comic book shop owners are all intimidating curmudgeons, sitting grumpily behind the counter glaring at the customers, you owe it to yourself to come to Isotope and meet James. He's easy to find, trust me
This is my new home. Heaven, mecca, what have you. James is my hero and there's no way I will not be here every Saturday. Even when my bank account is drained due to too many comic books, I will still have a place to spend my broke ass day.
James has really funny stories and nice friends. Hearts for eyes.
Isotope has become like a second home to me in the last year. I have been a regular and avid comic book reader for the last 9 years, between two different cities, the last 3 in SF. For about my first 2 years, I was a regular at Things from Another World, before it closed. When it did I thought to myself "now, I get to find a new shop and I can pare back what I read to save some money, since they won't know me there." I was wrong.
Within a month, the staff at the Isotope (James, Kirsten, Matt, and Storm) became fast friends and regular sources for comic insight. Needless to say, they're full of amazing suggestions on things you should read and will want to. Personally, I am spending more on my comics than ever before, but I'm enjoying them at a rate that I can't put a price on. There are innumerable amounts of things that have come through my hands in the last year that I personally rate in my top comics I've ever read, and without the Isotope staff they wouldn't have ever been picked up.
Add in the large family of regulars and Isotope becomes more than a place you go to buy your comics, you go to hang out with friends, talk comics (and other things), read, eat, meet creators, you name it. The fact that you still feel like an adult when you shop there is a wonderful moment. Comic books don't feel like a dirty little secret, huddled into cardboard boxes, but something you can enjoy out in the open.
As amazing as the selection is, I love the fact that back issues aren't piled up everywhere. Leave that to the other shops. However, if you want something and can't find it in the front room, James/Storm/Kirsten will be more than happy to search in the back room to see if they have or order it from the distributors...and if not, they'll know which other shop in the city to send you to.
The last thing that needs mentioning are the events. Whether it's a creator you don't know so well or one with a movie coming out based on their works, it's always a party. Having been to a few of them I can say they make any week/month when they happen. The creators do a signing, then stay around to hang out and have drinks with everyone in the store. It's truly a blast and reminds you they're just like you.
I can't recommend the Isotope highly enough, as I love it like my own home. If all is right in the world, it'll be as constant a presence in my life as it has been this last year for a great many more. And when you go, do yourself a favor and ask for a suggestion or two, you'll walk away happy with something you probably didn't even know existed.
So I finally managed to visit the famous Isotope in San Francisco. Let me say that James did not disappoint. He was in the shop as my wife and I were making it the very last stop leaving SF. The shop is amazing. Very open and well lit. Everything has its place. Organized.
Ah, the toilet seats. The wonderful toilet seats. Yes, it's true, they are all over the high walls of the store. These lids have killer art from the likes of: Erik Larsen, Jim Lee, Darick Robertson, Jill Thompson, Darwyn Cooke, and many many others, even a short bit of prose by Warren Ellis.
The store is a fanboys delight.
Check out that totally bad ass Dr.Strange costume on the second floor, SWEET!
I only bought Flash: Rebirth#1 that day at Isotope; but James Sine made me feel like I dropped 30 bucks instead of only 3. He's excited about the art form, and open to any kind of industry talk. Stormy was a nice guy too.
If you're into comics, and in the SF area, you HAVE to visit Isotope! No excuses. There's a reason that other bookstores have aspired to model themselves after this guys shop...
This is a very nice comic shop - quite different from most I've been to. Has a nice design studio feel to it & feels very comfortable. Great owner! This would be one of my local shops if I lived in SF.
Pros
- Very nice layout & furniture
- Clear focus on comics - not toys, clothes, games, etc
- Local obscure minicomics
- Fun toilet seat artwork
- Great helpful staff
Cons
- Street parking only, but easy to find parking (at least on Sat)
- No back issues to browse thru
Return Visit
- Yes, if I ever go to SF
I went in here with a bit of guilt and bit of excitement for it had been 15 years since I had been in a comic book store but let me tell you it was all wort it just for the nostalgia effect. It made me remember going into places like these after school and just browsing for hours.
The man there was very friendly and helpful. I wound up wanting to buy everything but I held back wih every last but of adult in me. I think I will go back and get something just for kicks and to help support a good, small, local business.
Also the toilet seats are hilarious!
This is the first time I actually got excited about writing a review for a place. I couldn't wait to get home and yelp it up.
A friend of where I used to work suggested this place to me when I was having a hard time finding the next Y the Last Man that I needed downtown. The first time I visited it was pure business. I got my comics and left.
Today, however, was a completely different mindset. I knew I wanted the latest issue of The Walking Dead (which I had success obtaining the last time I was here, anyone else I visit seems to always be sold out.) But other than TWD I didn't know what I wanted. I am still fairly new to the comic book scene. Really, all I've read is Watchman, YLM and TWD.
James was behind the counter and for once I didn't feel embarrassed about not knowing what I was talking about and just asking. He was a bright smile and wild haired guy inviting me to ask away. I told him what I read and liked and what I didn't like and asked if he had any recommendations. He was just so excited, he started pulling things from shelves, whizzing back and forth and running to the back room. All while taking a bit of time to ask questions and explain comic concepts and why he liked them. Seriously, I am sure if it wasn't for the fact that eventually the telephone rang and some costumers came in, his enthusiasm would've garnered a stack of books as high as my five foot tall frame.
It was hard not to get swept up into that flurry. I ended up with two new comics that I am really excited to read and about five more I am enthusiastic about getting into eventually. I just wish I had more money then I could have bought them all.
Comic book stores always feel a little dirty to me. Like you have landed in some weird dude's basement and you can only look at his supercool shit if you know the magic password.
Which you totally don't and never will.
Isotope is such a breath of fresh air. Open, welcoming, clean, modern - an environment that is befitting of the wonderful world of comics, illustration, and graphic novels. There are places to sit, tables to peruse, SPACE TO MOVE. Natural light. A great selection that made me want to spend lots of dollars and escape into fantastical lands.
The world of comics is out of the basement and all growed up. But not too growed up to recognize the awesomeness of hand-painted illustrated toilet seats. Heh heh.
This place is dangerous: it's like a candy shop full of miscellaneous goodies all to my liking.
I was overwhelmed when I came in. Comics! Graphic novels! Manga! So much stuff! James is definitely knowledgeable and is the go-to guy if you're looking for what's new or any suggestions. Definitely in love with his choice of attire, too.
The setup was interesting, as well. I enjoyed the toilet seat covers adorning the walls.
I didn't buy anything myself, but the boyfriend did snag a copy of Tiny Titans. All in all, this place does not disappoint.
Seriously,
A clean, fairly well organized, modern, friendly comic book shop!
I'm in geek heaven.
Even if they don't have something I want they do everything in their power to help me get it and they always treat me great (No "Comic Book Guy" here).
It's so nice to have a place that doesn't make you feel like a total douche for liking comic books. I can do that on my own.
p.s. Cyclops + Robert Forever
The Isotope staff have gone above and beyond to help me out, and have gotten me hooked on some darn good comics.
There's a reason this place consistently wins a Guardian award usually titled something like "Best Comics Shop To Be A Girl In". The clientele and staff here don't treat me like some weird creepy interloper from the wrong side of the tracks, or hyperventilate if I go near the "adult" rack. Heck, I can even get in a nerdfight about whether the first Crisis was better than the second and not have some loser try to tell me that girls don't know anything about comics! (And James and the staff go out of their way to carry great titles by women authors, too.)
But Isotope is *stylish*. I come here and get compliments on my look, at last if I remembered to dress nice. Folks are friendly and welcoming. It's true that if you walk in during a conversation, it can feel a little bit over your head sometimes; there are Real Comics Pros hanging out here on the sofas talking shop. But that's also the beauty of Isotope. Even when they aren't hosting one of their awesome events (and getting artists and authors to create an art toilet seat for their collection - a must see!), you can learn a lot about the genre and the art and the writing just by hanging out here and listening and participating. And reading!
Of course, you can also get in nerd conversations about which of Captain America's costumes is the most dorky - and coming from the hip-dressing staff here, you get the impression they know their spandex fashions as well.
This is not the place to come for back issues, really. If you want grubby longboxes of dusty old singles, you'll need to go elsewhere; Isotope has the shiny and new, and lots of interesting indie titles. That said, they've been happy to order back trades and stuff for me (if they don't have it in stock) for no fee. They do have stuff for younger readers, and they're always happy to make recommendations. These folks know their genre, but they're not snobby jerks about it; they're happy to share the fun and educate newbies.
I'm going to make an extra note here that yes, they are wheelchair accessible - and I mean "I can turn around in here without knocking over a grubby table full of longboxes". The space is downright generous - but it does fill up for signings and events!
Isotope folks are happy to keep you a saver box, and they've been known to stick extra issues in that they think I might like ("I saved you this one in case you wanted it, since your favorite crimefighter guest-stars in it"). If I've ordered stuff, it waits there until I get my lazy wheeled ass to the store, and they don't mind. I can even email them and make requests on days when I don't make it out of the house.
Did I mention that they actually have decor? And play good punk tunes? And doesn't set off my dust allergies?
Isotope is really a lot more than just a store. It's a community gathering place, a resource for creators and want-to-be-creators and fans, and even a place to party. They leave other comics stores in the back-issue dust.
Top notch comic book store with all of the latest books. Alos an ideal place to get those rare never seen before books. James is a cool guy who is a credit to the industry.
Inviting atmosphere, warm service, and they even play good music. I never thought I'd see it in my lifetime but Isotope Comics actually combines comic books and customer service.
James, Kirsten and Storm all know their shit. The staff has turned me onto so many good books I didn't know about until they plopped a copy in my hands and told me to sit down and read. Yes, they have couches where you can read books to see if your interested.
They say Christmas comes once a year but if your a fan of comic books it comes every wednesday at the Isotope.
such a nice little place. I went and got my boyfriend a series of books as a gift, and the cashier gave my a nice discount for getting them for him just cause!! :)
James Sime is one slick bastard and an awesome guy who I have had the pleasure of knowing for many years now; Isotope is a testament to the man's genius in that he took what had been a standard, run-of-the-mill comic shop originally located in the Inner Sunset and turned it into THE comic book shop in the city. The big open spaces, the design aesthetic and just the general feeling of deep camaraderie makes Isotope one of my all time favorite places.
If I had to describe the one thing that makes James and Isotope stand out beyond every other comic book store I've ever entered it would be the fact that Isotope takes the hobby out of the creepy basement vibe of shame that has long been associated with collecting comics and makes the customer feel like they're part of the scene.
He has redeemed comics retailers.
There should be more business owners like James to make the world a more interesting place. Oh, and did I mention that not only is he the snappiest dresser I have ever met, he has an honest to God Doctor Strange costume, that just rocks.
James is amazing! The store is just ridiculously cool. The toilet seat museum is insane. Granted, I'm on a major quest to study graphic novels, literally, and this place is undeniably, one of the best resources in the city. James is the Encyclopedia Britannica of Comics, graphic novelists and comic artists. Some of the suggestions he had for exploring the world of graphic novelists and finding Filipino comic book artists was so helpful and very eye opening. He also introduced me to a wide array of comic visionaries to explore in my studies. I couldn't have asked for better experiences. Isotope is also rather chic looking. You walk in and it's comics heaven and beautifully designed to boot. In the back, upstairs, James supports the pursuit of budding comic artists by displaying hand made comics. Talk about showing love to the entire community. This place is one of my new favorite haunts and will definitely see my business for a long time.
Oh, if you haven't already gathered, the customer service is fantastic. Super friendly and not condescending. Please visit and support this shop!
Date: Sunday, March 1, 2009
This isn't a traditional comic book store. It looks like a meeting place, a gathering place, a place for social interaction more than it does a comic book store. The decor is minimalist. There's a lot of open space although maybe it was that way because they had rearranged things for the Wonder Con party the night before and had yet to reset the look of the place. I got the impression that it is more of an event place than a comic book store. They've got a decent selection of trades but I've seen better. The manga selection is kind of wimpy. What stood out though was how empty the place felt when there is hardly anyone there. I did find a couple of things to buy: DMZ v5 and Blue Mondays v2. I was looking for the first and pleasantly surprised to find the second.
Bottom Line: Not a great comic book store but it seems to have more to offer as the name (Isotope Comic Book Lounge) implies and unfortunately I wasn't there at a good time to experience the other things/events/parties that the place has to offer.
Oh comics, why do you have to be so expensive and habit-forming? Why do I have to stop reading you for months, knowing that as soon as I glimpse the vibrant artwork beneath your tantalizing covers, I will descend into the blackest fugue and allow you to completely take over my consciousness and identity? I may not surface for days at a time.
If you have even the faintest affinity for comic books of any type, you will want to visit this place. It is anathema to the musty cave of popular stigma, populated by vibrant people with deep knowledge about comic history instead of the socially-handicapped troglodytes Middle America seems to feel are part and parcel of the experience.
Truth be told, I have been to very few of the aforementioned places, but most stores still manage to be only middling at best. Isotope is a shrine to comics, and you go there to celebrate the medium as much as to just read an issue of your favorite title. While the facilities are top quality, what distinguishes this business is the attitude of the employees. Even if they give you a hard time about the comics you read, it's gentle ribbing at worst and not a vicious mockery. They just seem happy that you want to read more comic books, and are eager to talk to you about whatever you like to read.
You know how there are some of those comics shops where people just don't care? it's messy? Dirty? Cluttered? Well, this place is the opposite! People here are friendly and very knowledgable. The place is very clean and welcoming - it's actually hard to leave. It's a very neat and organized shop and I really enjoy coming here. If you're looking for the newest comics and trade paperbacks, this place is perfect.
When you're here, you actually don't feel that bad about being a comic book nerd! Be proud!
Best. Comic. Shop. Ever.
James -Owner of Isotope- and crew provide the best service in San Francisco. They are helpful, friendly, and great fun. Their love and passion for comics is contagious.
It is their commitment to customer service is the number one reason I shop there every week.
In the interest of full disclosure, it should be noted that I don't even read comics. That being said, I still love Isotope and hang out there because it is that fun. As far as comic book "stores" go, this place is different and special. As the name implies, it's both a lounge and a store, so it's bright, cozy, inviting, colorful and staffed by San Francisco's finest. I've peeked in the windows of other comic book stores and they're typically drab, dark, and stacked with cardboard boxes. Isotope is the exact opposite of all that a non-comic-book-person (or a comic-book-person) might expect.
There's a constant flow of community, events, parties, and signings that you can't help but be drawn in. Even if you're like me and you erroneously think comics might not be your cup of tea, a trip to Isotope is well worth it if for no other reason than to experience the magic of this San Francisco institution. You will recognize James, the owner, right away... at first for his sharp zoot suits and electrified hair, but then for his incredible customer service and ability to truly listen to people to match them with things that might interest them.
To say James, Kirsten, and Matt are knowledgeable about all things comic-related would be an understatement. As for the inventory, in addition to the mainstream titles you expect, the assortment of local, indie, and mini comics will stand for itself. And if that hasn't sold you, go check out the art gallery of autographed toilet seats. Or the signed giant weiner whistle. Or the lifesize moon man. I could go on, but I don't want to spoil all the fun and surprises.
I was very much a comic virgin before I made my way to Isotope about a year ago, this is not because I wasn't a nerd, but because I never found a place where I felt comfortable to shop.
Being a bigger fella who usually totes a Chrome messenger, I usually feel awkward visiting comic shops not just because the owners give me a foul look when they ask me to give up my bag but mostly because your average comic shop tries to cram every square inch of space with comics, card games, gundam models, hentai dolls, etc which gives me a serious case of bull-in-a-china-shop syndrome. The Isotope on the other hand, with her fabulous owner James, and the wonderful staff Kirsten, Storm, and formerly Matt have made me feel so incredibly welcome and endeared as a customer and casual acquaintance.
The shop has large open spaces and seeps with awesome hip style and is organized in a fashion that makes it super easy to browse. The comfortable couches are nice for reading through a trade or admiring the toilet seat cover artwork from all sorts of famous comic artists. Speaking of comic artists, the Isotope frequently holds signing events for comic writers and artists that are nothing like the events you are used to at your comic shop. These events are parties and deserve a space in your schedule if you can afford the time.
It's true, they don't have huge bins of back issues, but they're always happy to look in the back to see if they have what you want or order it for you.
Isotope, I love you. :)
Isotope is the shiznit yo, and James, well what can you say about James? Every business owner should aspire to be like James. This guy seriously loves his work. Even if you aren't a comic buff, he will get you excited about something (usually a bunch of things) in the shop. He got me hooked on Fables and I hadn't even looked at a comic since I was 12. You could seriously blow your wad here if you aren't careful.
Comic book stores can be intimidating if you don't know much about comic books... comic books stores other than Isotope. The owner of Isotope makes you feel like you belong and like he's happy to have you there even if you only buy $5 worth of stuff and spend too long pawing through all the comic zines. That's right; Isotope not only has conventional Marvel/DC/Dark Horse/Omni comics; they have comic zines as well!
I came in hoping to find the Fart Party book, and while they were out of stock, the owner said he would find me a copy somehow and email me when it comes in, and I believe he will!
Thank you, Isotope, for making me like going comics shopping again.
This place has it owns very distinct style and that style ic crazy as Hell , yet still quite refined. Probably the best comic shop in San Francisco.
Dream of finding parking
Simple. This comic shop is the best in the City. I could talk about customer service or selection but it seems like everyone has done that for me already. The comic shop kicks @ss.
I've been to Isotope a few times, sometimes for pleasure but mostly, seeking specific reference materials for work.
Without fail, the friendly man who greets me always has what I desire and offers it with a smile. Not to mention, he wears excellent suits - befitting a comic book expert.
Thanks, Isotope - I'm enjoying my copy of Watchmen.
oh gosh, as liz s. says, this place is so so nice to come to as a comic hunter.
so welcoming, open, and inspiring.
if you are not a comic book fan and you walk in here, you will walk out with the seeds of appreciation planted and a comic or graphic novel under your arm.
James is excited! fun to look at! inclusive and supportive of your interest,
unlike the kids at the comic store near my house.
The shop does not have that packrat feel. however it means that if you want something unusual or limited or random, you will not find it.
they will do their best to track it down for you though!
my old man says that this shop must be more of the owners pet project, rather than a comic book store for the masses of dorks in the trenchcoat mafia.
good for him i say!
I read ONE freakin' comic.
But I always go to Isotope to get it.
Why? it's girl friendly. it doesn't smell like desperation, sweat, fear or moldy basement. It's a bright and shiny store full of bright & shiny comics and the always impeccable cad, James, is there to assist in a non-creepy manner. If he's not there, his super hottie gf is and she's just as rad.
I have found my Mecca.
They had every book/issue/title I thought I wouldn't be able to find in any other comic book store in San Francisco. I teared up when I saw all of the lovely neat rows of different publishers. What a great store!
No boxes of old comics shoved into dusty corners of the room, no scary looking dude behind the counter giving you the evil eye every time you dare turn a page with even the slightest touch. Just friendly people, and a nice, clean space...and even a place to SIT. Holy crap! I think I'm in love...
(SIGH) I wish I had super powers. If I could be any X-Man, I would be Psylocke...the crazy hott, super fine, super ninja fightin', bad-ass Asian mama with a body that is so blamo it hurts to look at. Purple hair, too. PUNK ROCK MUTANT!
But alas, I'm not. I can't be Psylocke. Maybe Leech...or Toad. But definitely not Psylocke. I don't think I'd even get to be Wolfsbane.
Also, there's a space suit in the back with which I plan to wear someday when the owner's not looking...next to Mutants, Astronauts RULE!
http://psylocke2.club....
When I was awkwardly pre-teen in my sunny Southern California suburb, I used to ask my parents to take me to the Chula Vista Public Library all the time. It wasn't because I wanted to go to the library, but because they'd drop me off for hours at a time, and then I'd get a chance to *really* let loose.
Ok, letting loose when I was a kid meant buying a Snapple (Peach Iced Tea), eating some Baskin Robbins, and going to the comic book store across the street. I was stealthily buying comic books like no other - mainstream, indie, etc. The fine folks at Choice Comics in Chula Vista would hold the subscription for me, and throw in a little something extra sometimes - a deck of cards, or the newest promo. I'd hide the comic books in my backpack and run back to the library, go to the bathroom stall, lock the door, and happily read my comic books in the privacy of my very own stall in the children's section of the Chula Vista Public Library.
Enough about memory lane, the point is that I was a little ashamed to be so into Gambit, Spawn, Gen13, and the adventures of Milk and Cheese. I wasn't into sports or cars or Abercrombie like the other "cool" kids. So when I went into Isotope, I immediately thought, "Man! Where has this store BEEN all my life?"
I imagine that Isotope could be that type of store, where a disaffected awkward suburban kid could go to The Big Bad City and be surrounded by people like him and who share his interests, where he doesn't feel the need to hide in a stall in a public library.
Thank you, Isotope, for being That Store, and for making the world just a little bit brighter for kids like me.
Neighborhood: Hayes Valley
Category: Comic Books
San Francisco, CA
Category: Comic Books
Neighborhood: Castro
Category: Comic Books
Neighborhood: Lower Haight
Category: Comic Books
Neighborhood: Civic Center/Tenderloin
Category: Bookstores
The best comic stores this world has to offer!…
The name says it all folks. I'm hunting down…
Although I try to be as faithful as can be to my…
Books Books Books and.... more books... To be…
When the sun goes down, you'll find me here...…
My local dry cleaner, watering hole, deli, cafe,…
Much like puffins, French Bulldogs, bacon, and…
In early March 2009 I had to go to San Francisco…
