The first time I was here, which was last month, I did not find anything that caught my eye, but two of my GF's bought a few items at bargain prices. I guess I wasn't feeling it at the time to spend money at a place that looked similar to what one might see in the old TV series, "Sanford & Son" back in the days. However, yesterday I did a returned trip with my two GF's to browse and yes, there were a few items that perked my interest.
There is a saying..."what's one man's junk is another man's treasure". Since there is no such thing as a 3.5 star rating for this unique place on Gilman Street where you can buy, sell, trade, and/or consign items, I have decided to go with a three star. There is a big difference in presentation of the items on hand compared to what you see in huge and/or luxurious department stores. Entering the bazaar you can browse and shop with no pressure. Though there is clutter all around, it is to be expected at an outdoor gypsy flea market with an assortment of gently used clothes (sweaters - $9 each or $15 for two), knick/knacks, plates, glasswares, toys (games, stuffed animals, etc.), baskets, ceramic items, even crystal ware. They even carry used books, albums, VHS movie tapes. Some of the items are a little pricey, such as the nice crystal candy jar with lid for $24. (The last time I bought one of those was over 15 years ago and it was $10 at the old Emporium in Downtown Oakland.) At a bazaar, prices on items are negotiable, but you can't do that in a department store.
Sometimes the stuffiness of department stores and overbearing sales associates are not my "cup of tea"; thus, I find an outdoor bazaar is somewhat relaxing and soothing as a cup of tea. read more