Basically Daiso's more expensive, Chinese-owned (technically) rival.
For years, I've been waiting for a Daiso or DonKi to open up here at MOA (still waiting). They could take up the old Sears corner even. But until then... you get Ebisu.
I'm not completely sold on Ebisu. Sure it's more convenient than having to drive two states over for a few Japanese home goods, but prices are marked up a bit more here and I feel they're missing a lot of the more unique and interesting products you'd find at a typical Daiso that would be a hit here in MN.
Considering it IS Minnesota though, Ebisu is a pretty good addition to the MOA. It's a lot better than the dozens of small anime goods stores stationed at almost every mall here (please, there's more to Japan than just anime, really!).
The two basket sizes gives you the choice between being able to navigate the tight aisles or buying nearly the entire store (kidding). And I like the variety of drinks you can get. Lots of hair and beauty products, and good quality too. I do have to chuckle at the men's hair styling products though--not because of the products themselves, but because right above the men's hair styling products are some items from the well-known Tenga brand. It's displayed not-so discreetly, but I don't think the average, unaware person would ever notice. I was pretty amused--either Ebisu has balls to treat human functions like a normal thing (because it is) in the USA, or the staffers have no idea what it is. (shrug) Either way, color me impressed... though I'm sure some stuffy, uptight, party pooper Karen will probably complain and it'll get taken down. read more