05.05.2009 · by Patrick W. Galbraith
Nakano Broadway opening up
I went to check out Nakano Broadway after hearing it has been hopping. And it was. It’s so bright, crowded and open that a lot of the privacy and basement-like atmosphere is gone. One young couple standing next to me in Mandarake said it was like an “otaku zoo.” For better or worse, the place has blossomed this year. A lot of stores are closed on the fourth floor, but as I hear it this is a move by Mandarake to consolidate its many holdings on the second and third floors. The third, the one at the top of the escalator and the first stop for most otaku, has always been a hot spot, but the second floor has really benefitted from the new attention. In addition to favorites such as the Galaxy retro game store, there are also tons of military, cosplay (and fashion) and idol stores. It is worth checking out the several Trio locations, but a different idol store caught my eye: Utahime Doomu [Singing Princess Pure Dream]. It is not one of the new stores, but an old school offering the likes of Marubell in Asakusa. They have lots of rare older bromides, and newer stuff like the Nakano Fujoshi Sisters.
Next door there is a rad old cafe dedicated to auto racing. It has been in the mall since it opened over 30 years ago. Great for theme, not so much for food (though the cinnamon toast is good).
