Secret Headquarters, photo: Brendan McKillip
Contained and funky, like its Silver Lake locale, this 500-square-foot store has featured a wide selection of graphic novels, trade paperbacks and monthly titles while hosting artist events since 2005.- 3717 W. Sunset Blvd., Los Angeles, www.thesecretheadquarters.com
The two West Los Angeles stores (they're on the same block) has combined a great selection of independent graphic novels with a nod to Japanese pop culture for the past 10 years. One of the two spaces includes art gallery space where comic artists show and sign their work. Enthusiasts can also find designer toys and T-shirts at the stores.- 2015 and 2062 Sawtelle Blvd., Los Angeles, www.giantrobot.com
This Hollywood store, which has been in business for more than 30 years, complements its broad selection with in-store events ranging from a celebration of Marvel Comics' 70th anniversary to a commemoration of the 25th anniversary of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.- 7018 Melrose Ave., Los Angeles, www.goldenapplecomics.com
Celebrating more than two decades in business, this Burbank institution's 1,600 square-foot space houses about 20,000 back issues, new books and graphic novels, as well as collectible toys and specialty prints.- 1930 W. Olive Ave., Burbank, www.artoffiction.com
This Hollywood comic emporium houses its collection in 9,000 square feet, while its adjoining Melt Gallery hosts events featuring visual artists, lectures and workshops. Opened in 1993, Meltdown was even the basis of a comic book store -- called Coolsville -- in a "Simpsons" episode.- 7522 Sunset Blvd., Los Angeles, www.meltcomics.com
A good manga selection and friendly staff keeps regulars coming back to this Pasadena comic book store. Bonus points for its location next to Zankou Chicken.- 1298 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena, www.comicsfactory.com
Purists appreciate this smallish store with a big collection near Sony studios in Culver City. Shoppers looking for toys, T-shirts or other peripheral stuff need not bother (the store doesn't even have a website). It's all about the comics.- 4267 Overland Ave., Culver City
A good graphic novel selection and easy location between Culver City and Marina del Rey attracts comic book fans from the Westside. The store gets extra points because it has a Bat Cave, where it shows films.- 12400 W. Washington Blvd., Los Angeles
Another store -- this one in Studio City -- with loyal fans where a friendly owner and good selection make up for the store's small footprint.- 11038 Ventura Blvd., Los Angeles
Two branches -- one in Sherman Oaks, one in Northridge -- give San Fernando Valley enthusiasts a chance to stock up on trade paperbacks and hardcover comic books, as well as trading cards and other memorabilia.- 15017 Ventura Blvd. & 8967 Reseda Blvd., Los Angeles, www.earth2comics.com
