Known in my household as “the shiny store” because of the gleaming merchandise cleverly displayed in the front window and on the tall shelves inside, Black Ink is the place to shop when you want a special gift (for yourself or someone else), but don’t know exactly what you want.

French- and Spanish-language bingo? Adorable bento boxes? A plastic tiara that says “birthday girl”? Beautiful handbags and wallets, quirky cards for all occasions, Japanese stationery? It’s all here, along with vintage-style toys and a selection of glassware, kitchenware, and household and office essentials such as four-way rubber bands, heavy-duty denim aprons, doorstops, and waterproof notebooks. Throw in a carefully curated selection of craft, cookbook, and gift books and games, and you have yourself a pocket-sized shopping emporium. It’s the kind of place where you find yourself saying “I forgot all about that!” when you happen upon a jar full of miniature ball-bearing pinball games. Did I mention Tin Tin? The boy detective is all over the place as well in many different options.

Once you find something be sure to take advantage of the wonderful selection of wrapping paper options located behind the counter. You can also find stickers and colorful pens and markers to complete the package. All in all it could be a one stop gift buying destination.