Best of 12 japanese anime stores in Chicago
Japanese anime stores in Chicago are a must-visit for any anime fan. These specialized shops offer a wide range of authentic anime merchandise, from manga books and graphic novels to action figures, DVDs, and apparel. Whether you're a seasoned collector or just starting your anime journey, these stores provide a unique and immersive experience, connecting you with the vibrant world of Japanese animation.
1. Nakama Toys
Knowledgeable and friendly staff, excellent customer service

If you're looking to import anime or video game toys and action figures, you've come to the right place. This store boasts an impressive selection, particularly when it comes to Gundam items - with over 3 walls filled with various products and supplies, you're sure to find what you're looking for.
The staff at this establishment are knowledgeable, friendly, and approachable. They even complimented a customer on their anime outfit, which shows their genuine appreciation for the community they serve. With great prices and a wide selection, this store provides a 10/10 service and overall experience.
2. Asian Image
Cozy and welcoming atmosphere, with friendly service

I was pleased to discover a selection of cute bags and other kawaii items at a reasonable price. The store offered a wide variety of products, making it easy to find what I was looking for.
The customer service at this store was exceptional. The staff was friendly and helpful, making my shopping experience enjoyable. I was impressed with their dedication to providing great service to their customers.
3. Rotofugi
Rotofugi features limited edition vinyl toys and art

Gachapon, capsule toy vending machines, are known for their cute and highly desirable toys. The variety of toys available in these machines is one of the reasons they are so much fun. From plushies to keychains, there's always something new and exciting to discover.
The excitement of gachapon doesn't end with the initial thrill of seeing the toy inside the capsule. The desire to collect and keep these toys is strong. Each toy is unique and limited, making them highly sought after by collectors. The temptation to add every new toy to one's collection is irresistible, as each toy is too cute to pass up.
4. Goblin Market Manga & Curiosities
Carries an enchanting and mysterious atmosphere

Goblin Market, located in Chicago, is a must-visit destination for fans of manga, comics, and games. The shop, which opened in October 23, is the first manga-centered store in the city proper and is the brainchild of three queer friends. It offers a carefully curated selection of manga, including queer titles, providing a welcoming and inclusive space for fans of the genre.
Previously, manga lovers in Chicago had to travel to the suburbs to find a good selection of titles. But with the opening of Goblin Market, they can now find a wide range of manga in the city itself. The store's founders, who are passionate about the genre, have created a space that is both accessible to first-timers and appealing to enthusiasts. The shop's focus on queer manga titles is particularly noteworthy, as it helps to ensure that fans of all stripes can find something they'll enjoy at Goblin Market.
5. MINISO
Japanese-inspired design, compact store

The recently opened MINISO store in Chinatown offers a wide variety of Japanese-inspired items, with a particular focus on anime-themed goods. This makes it an ideal destination for anime fans looking for unique merchandise. Among the Japanese-inspired items, you can find a selection of anime-themed products that any enthusiast would appreciate.
During my visit to this MINISO store, I was delighted to discover a range of cute anime plushies and stationery. The anime plushies were adorable, and there was a great selection of stationery items featuring popular anime characters. Whether you're a devoted anime fan or simply appreciate Japanese culture, this MINISO store is definitely worth a visit.
6. Alien Entertainment Store (Chicago)

7. Zombie Unicorn Comics
Knowledgeable and friendly staff

The recently opened Gryend House is an impressive destination for comic book enthusiasts. The collection of comics is kept in pristine condition, and a variety of novelty and collectors models, movies, games, and pre-orders are available for customers. The co-owners, Rob and Ron, are knowledgeable and enthusiastic about their products, creating a welcoming and enjoyable atmosphere for customers. Robert even designs striking business cards. I highly recommend this location to my friends.
Zombie Unicorn Comics is a must-visit spot for fans of comic books and anime. This establishment boasts an impressive selection of Japanese anime merchandise, appealing to a wide range of interests. The staff is not only friendly but also helpful, ensuring that customers have a positive experience. Overall, Zombie Unicorn Comics is a standout location for comic and anime lovers.
8. AlleyCat Comics
Knowledgeable staff, strong community focus

AlleyCat has an extensive manga selection with an abundance of choices available. Orders for manga are placed in large quantities, and the delivery is typically swift. The staff is consistently kind and eager to assist.
This review focuses on AlleyCat's manga selection, which is impressive. The store offers a wide variety of manga, making it easy to order large quantities. Customers receive their orders quickly, and the staff's friendly and helpful attitude enhances the overall experience.
9. Graham Crackers Comics Loop
Dedicated community space for events and artist signings

Greendale Comics & Collectibles (GCC), established in 1982, is the largest network of comic shops in Illinois with nine locations. This comic shop chain is a must-visit for anime fans, who will appreciate the wide selection of manga and anime-related merchandise available. GCC is not only popular among comic book enthusiasts but also caters to those who want to explore Japanese culture. The shop offers a range of affordable anime merchandise, as well as manga, making it a perfect destination for fans of the genre.
GCC has a well-curated collection of manga and anime merchandise, which includes various anime-themed items such as figurines, keychains, and apparel. Additionally, GCC provides a platform for fans to connect and share their passion for anime, making it a welcoming community for fans of all ages. This comic shop chain is dedicated to providing affordable and high-quality anime merchandise, making it a popular destination for anime fans throughout Illinois. The extensive collection of manga and anime memorabilia at GCC is sure to impress any enthusiast of the genre.
10. Chicago Comics
Knowledgeable staff, welcoming atmosphere

Chicago Comics, a well-known anime store located on Clark Street in Chicago, is a hub for anime and manga enthusiasts. This store is ideal for anyone who loves anime and manga, particularly for a Spiderman superfan. The extensive collection at Chicago Comics is sure to impress any anime fan, making it a must-visit destination for collectors and fans alike.
The store's impressive collection includes a wide variety of anime and manga, as well as other pop culture merchandise. Chicago Comics has everything from classic series to the latest releases, making it a great place to explore new titles or find rare and hard-to-find items. The store's knowledgeable and passionate staff are always on hand to offer recommendations and answer questions, making it easy for fans to find exactly what they're looking for. Overall, Chicago Comics is a must-visit destination for any anime or manga fan looking for a great selection and knowledgeable service.
11. Challengers Comics
Knowledgeable and passionate staff, welcoming atmosphere

Challengers Comics is a comic shop that provides exceptional customer service, with staff members such as W Dal, Patrick, and Molly always treating customers well. The shop has been operational since 2016 and has built a reputation for its excellent recommendations and subscription boxes. Challengers has a welcoming atmosphere, making it an ideal place for families and out-of-town visitors looking for local comics and graphic novels.
The comic shop stands out for its cleanliness, good lighting, and inviting ambiance, which is enhanced by the smell of apples and cinnamon. Apart from its local offerings, Challengers also boasts an impressive selection of comics and graphic novels for enthusiasts of all ages. Whether you're a seasoned comic book collector or a newcomer to the hobby, Challengers Comics offers a top-notch shopping experience that is sure to meet your needs.
12. Epic Snack Shack - Exotic Snacks & Anime
Anime-themed atmosphere
Epic Snack Shack is a retail store located in Lincoln Park, known for its wide selection of anime-themed products and snacks from various parts of the world. The store offers a unique and enjoyable experience for customers, featuring an array of unusual snacks and candies with distinctive Asian and fun flavors.
In addition to its snack offerings, Epic Snack Shack also has a notable anime souvenir and gear section. This section provides customers with a variety of anime-related items, such as memorabilia, clothing, and accessories, making it an ideal destination for anime fans looking for unique and authentic gear. The store's overall atmosphere is one of fun and excitement, making it a popular destination for anime enthusiasts and foodies alike.