I live in Ohio. I just purchased an online gift card for my niece who lives in JP and is celebrating an upcoming birthday. I had a question about the best way to get the online gift card to her, so I called the store. The gal on the phone couldn't have been more pleasant and more helpful. Thank you, On Centre, for your excellent customer service! read more

Great gift store with so many amazing and fun items. Definitely stop in and support your local small business!

I want to give a shoutout to On Centre for great safety measures to allow them to remain open while protecting employees and customers. Last I visited they were allowing only 10 people in the store at a time and everyone was wearing masks. There's a plexiglass screen at the cash register and hand sanitizer at the door and register. Customers are required to wear masks. In general, this is a great local boutique for gifts and local swag. Lots of JP teeshirts and mugs, a nicely curated collection of home goods, games, puzzles, and cute clothing & jewelry. Prices are a bit high but that comes with supporting a local business that can't offer the price cuts of the Amazons of the world. If you're not already familiar, I also recommend downloading the Fivestars app. It's a loyalty program that On Centre uses (Evergreen Eatery and Polkadog Bakery -- two of my other JP favs -- are also on there). You earn points on all your purchases and they'll occasionally send a $5 of $25 or similar coupon. read more

This is the best little Gift Shop you will find in all of Boston. I love how On Centre rotates their selection seasonally, and they always arrange everything in the store so beautifully. I love the holiday and seasonal treats that they bring in too, in addition to the gifts. Always tasty and that's usually what I end up buying :) A true JP gem that we are lucky to have! Definitely sign up for their rewards program, as you will often get an email telling you that you can receive a bonus discount if you shop within the next few days, or in your birthday month! read more

I stopped in recently while waiting for the bus on a cold day, and was really glad I did! What a fun store, and the people there are really nice. They have lots of useful and unusual gifts there, also nice handbags. read more

Under any normal circumstances, these folks are fantastic. I absolutely love this store. It is one of my favorite go-to spots for gifts -- not just for others. These are not normal circumstances, though. I'm approaching a milestone birthday (never mind which one) and in this time of pandemic and quarantine, I was finding myself in need of a pick-me-up. Of course, nothing is open. But, Courtney and Phil offered to FaceTime walk me through the store and show me what was available. Courtney even modeled jewelry for me so I could get a better sense of size and placement. They really went so above and beyond for me and made this weird birthday a little bit special. Thanks so much! read more

Love this little store! I've gotten so many great gifts here, from everyone from girl-friends to my dad. I really like their greeting card selection and their clothes are so good. The staff are really friendly and helpful, and always willing to recommend another local business if On Centre doesn't have what you're looking for. I really like their selection of Jamaica Plain-themed items as well. Very conveniently located right in front of a 39 bus busstop, especially in the winter I like to shop while I wait for the bus. read more

I've gotten some unique and awesome gems from this store over time, including a children's RBG book, a sweet tank top with dog illustrations on it, and a heavily-used Jamaica Plain glass stein. They always have something cool and quirky for whatever/whomever you're looking for, and it rotates enough that you never know what you'll find when you stop by- so you'll just have to stop by very often, right? read more

I typically love stopping into this shop for cards and sweet birthday gifts for friends and family. Unfortunately I stopped in with my dog today- which I'll never do again. I asked when I arrived if it was ok to have him in (I had seen pups in the store previously). The store associates, as usual, were super pleasant and said of course and mentioned another dog was in the store. I looked over and a dog was laying down without anyone holding the leash. I assumed it was one of their dogs. Then an associate asks if my dog is aggressive with dogs while quickly walking the other dog face to face with mine...before I could say he's a puppy and timid around large dogs he tries to back up away from the dog being walked towards him but we're literally still in the entry way. He then growls and the store associates hurry the other dog behind the counter. All to find out this was another customer's dog they were handling. Further, while everyone's attention was on the dog behavior testing, the customer whose dog was loose and being cared for by store associates had been shoplifting and was pointed out by another customer. read more

I've lived in JP for 4 years and this is my absolute favorite place to shop. Super cute boutique and gift shop. Quirky, funny, cool, Boston and JP-themed, fancy, unique, locally-crafted gifts. (Clothes, candles, jewelry, men's shaving kits, pins, stationery, games, socks, mugs, kitchenware, toys for kids, super cute bags, wallets, etc.) I love this place so hard! Shop local! read more

I popped into this store on a weeknight on a mission: I was through coveting my friend's cool necklace (which she mentioned she had bought here) and was ready to take the next step toward ownership. But--sadness!--they were out. Philip, the owner, said he expected more in the next few weeks, so he offered to TAKE DOWN MY NAME AND NUMBER and call me when the shipment arrived. Yeah. That's called customer service. But On Centre has something even more important going for it: It is one of the more perfectly curated gift store I've ever set foot in. With all the Amy Ruppel artwork, locally made jewelry, and other goodies, it's actually hard to walk out empty-handed. Somehow I managed it, but I will be back. read more

This shop is PERFECT for gifts for your mom/significant other/BFF/pet/baby. Really amazing. Phillip, the store owner, is truly wonderful. He is kind, welcoming, friendly, and somehow both incredibly helpful and attentive yet also low-key and hands-off, all at the same time. His taste is absolutely impeccable, so you'll always find something classy, stylish, and en vogue. Never anything cheesy, gross, or off-putting. Totally the kind of gift shop that you could take your mom/grandmother into, and feel completely comfortable. The shop is small, but don't let that fool you. Philip packs it full of stuff, so make sure to take your time and look around, because the stock changes every time you turn around. And don't feel weird that he's watching/judging you (you know how you can feel in some smaller stores) - I've spent an hour in the store, and he's very patient and never pushy. He genuinely wants you to find something perfect, and is amazing if you need to exchange a product. And if you inquire about a specific item, he'll look into it or try to order more. Absolutely stop by for the perfect gift, or for something for yourself. They have everything: clothing, accessories, jewelry, bags, pet toys, baby stuff, stationery, household accessories...really. everything. The prices are definitely reasonable, especially because all of the stuff is indie-produced and really unique and special. He'll gift wrap if you need to, and there are tons of amazing cards, too, so you can do all of your gift shopping in one spot. One of my favorite things about the store is that it's pretty gender-neutral, especially compared to other shops in JP. You can feel totally comfortable perusing the selections, knowing that it's not all geared toward one gender or taste. GO. HERE. NOW. read more

I'm so glad JP has an independently owned, interesting, creative, neat, stylish niche store! While I've picked up my share of gifts, and fun cocktail rings; my favorite part of this store is the clothes they carry. They are often ordered from small designers in small quantities and they replenish their stock frequently. I've never walked out of there without an article - or a few articles - of clothing - dresses usually or tops. To echo what one other reviewer mentioned, I too asked if they could order a dress in a different size (they were selling them quickly), and they took down my name and number and called back when it was available. Not all items are available for re-ordering, so if you see something you like, pick it up right then and there; there are no sales, and the regular retail prices are always very reasonable. read more

this tiny but lovely store has fantastic, design-centric stuff for the home, and great cards a gift stuff. BUT my favorite thing there is the large selection of ORIGINAL JEWELRY, all by new, but relatively unknown designers, but NOT PRICEY (think $5 - $150). Listen up impoverished boys or girls who want to impress your significant others, but cant afford much - THIS SHOP'S FOR YOU!! I bought a pair of minimalist flower dangle earrings for 80$, and they were in the top 20% of the expensive stock this store carries, yet they look like something that might cost $250 just because the design is so beautiful. i also was lusting after a super delicate but largish leaf cut out necklace - incredibly flattering, (if u are reading this, and go to buy jewelry tho, remember THAT ONES MINE!!! --hah!!!). I love stores like this, they have soul, they strive to show local artists and craftspeoples stuff besides imported things. Another excellent quality is that the staff is so not pretentious (my saleslady Caroline was fabulous). Love stores where the staff are also lusting after the stock, and saving up for it. Go please and support this lovely place, and take advantage of these new jewelry designers before they get snatched up by chain stores and their prices skyrocket!! read more

Cute lil iconic JP shop with all kinds of potential classy or kitschy gifts for your friends and family. Lots of fun kitchen accessories, some paper supplies, clothes (tshirts, dresses, etc.), and books. Local handmade stuff as well as popular items you'd find in other trendy shops. Definitely a fun unique shopping experience if you want to give someone a personalized gift and support a local shop. I went on Monday late afternoon. The lady working the register was friendly when I asked her a question but never acknowledged me or said hi until I came up to her. For local shops I always look for a friendly hello when I enter.. Also please restock the ticket stub album you used to carry, I need to buy another one! read more

I am a HUGE fan of this place. Independently owned and full of interesting stuff! Beautiful jewelry, cute clothing items & accessories, and a ton of brilliant gift ideas. The prices range from moderate to pricey - at least for me, as a student - but! the quality is worth it. read more

I can find something for just about anyone in this store. They have a really great eye for selecting merchandise. 16 year old niece? Check. 27 year old future brother-in-law? Check. Fiancee? Check. And so on. The store is tiny but they make great use of their space. I also appreciate being able to support a local business that itself is supporting local artisans and other local businesses. The jewelry selection is great and as noted below, at a variety of affordable price points. Great staff and customer service. This store fills the void left by Pluto when it closed down the street several years back. It's great to know there's a shop in JP where I can find an adorable thoughtful gift for just about anyone. read more

What a cute little shop to stumble upon! There are a lot of items in this store that I see and think "I never knew I needed this, but now that I've seen it, I crc can't live without it!" For example, a coffee mug with a scrabble letter on it (B for Beth of course). A JP tshirt. Their adorable little clutches/purses that are clearly handmade. The Flour cookbook! The list goes on. I love popping in here when I need to buy a birthday/holiday gift because I always find something perfect, even when I go in having no clue what to buy the person. Staff has always been very helpful, but not overbearing (you know the type I'm talking about.) I'd encourage anyone in the neighborhood to stop by. Not the most convenient location (by T. Though the 39 stops right across the street), but worth the trip! read more

I was in JP for the Open Studios this weekend and went into this store. It is so colorful and adorable!!! They have a few things from Lotta Jansdotter (Finnish Designer), which is awesome!!! http://jansdotter.com/ It's a tiny store, I tried to move around without hitting things with my purse. read more

In between this and Indigena down the street, I think i'm set for gift-buying forever. The two stores are actually pretty similar: bags made from recycled ad tarps and such, funky cards and letterpress stationary, quirky art stuff, etc. On Centre has more "stylish bric-a-brac" like vases, glass items, scented candles, art clocks and whatnot, and feels more gender-neutral than Indigena, which skews more feminine. I come here around once a month now to grab little gifts for friends. Oh, and On Centre has a cute, and frequently quite sleepy, dog. read more

This is a great place to get a gift for a friend or yourself! I have given gifts to both guys and girls from On Centre. It also covers many age ranges. I gave my grandmother lotion, she loves the scent! I'll be back to get her that lotion this year. My advise is to walk into the store open minded and get your whole family holiday gifts from this store. I really think this store could make everyone happy. I've had rave reviews on all of the gifts I've given from On Centre. There are so many unique pieces (art, crafty clothing and jewelry and much much more!) Free gift wrap, excellent staff (so friendly) especially the owner! If you're in JP this is a most visit store! read more

We love shopping at On Centre. Every time we need a party gift or a present when we're visiting family, On Centre is our first stop. We've probably bought 12 JP mugs, 4 warm and stylish scarfs, several fun leggings, a few dresses, a few party games, lots of baby gifts, and a bunch more little gifties. The selection is eclectic and tasteful and I must say I don't know what we'd do without it nearby. It's a life saver. read more

Love On Centre it's the cutest lil shop. I always end up buying something for myself or a gift for a birthday, coworker, etc.....Love their wallets very unique. Unique and unexpectedly fun are the words for them. The owner is super nice. I always come by a great find. read more

Very cool little store with all kinds of amazing gifts and trinkets. Some local stuff, gorgeous jewelry, funny quirky shit. I love it.

Yay for On Centre! It has become my go-to place when I am looking for a gift. With their excellent selection of crafted jewelry, fun T-shirts and scarves, and handbags, not to mention the great kitchen kitch and baby stuff, it's hard not to find some kind of a pleaser. Not to generalize and make dangerous assumptions about different genders' gift preferences or anything, but I'd say it's more geared toward things that women would go for. This wonderful little store's inventory circulates, so don't count on being able to get the same thing all the time -- you just have to go a lot and enjoy it all. read more

Love this place! It is a small store with bunch of cute stuff. I am originally from Japan so I know what I am talking about when I say "cute stuff" :) I wish some of the things there were cheaper though... The t-shirts look really cute but I cannot really afford them. If you are looking for gifts, go to On Centre! read more

I've been by this place countless times and never stopped in. While the name of the store certainly describes the location, I was never quite sure what was actually in there. Today, with some time to kill while Ferris fixed my bike, I found out. I am in love with every wallet, pair of earrings, water bottle and tote at On Centre. Some folks that don't get Christmas presents from me normally, might just get some this year, cause it's so much fun shopping at this place! read more

Unsurprisingly, this gift shop was hopping the Saturday before Christmas. I spotted quite a few items I could have purchased as gifts if I had not already finished my holiday present purchasing. I did, however, buy a scarf for myself! Lots of cool local items, too! read more

Jamaica Plain is known for cute little stores and restaurants, which makes it a far cry from Boston's metropolitan downtown region. But you can still find city style for JP prices on Centre Street at the appropriately named boutique and gift shop, On Centre. Just a stone's throw from the original JP Licks (a.k.a. the world's best ice cream shop), On Centre has a cozy atmosphere, eye candy merchandise, and affordable price tags. As you walk through the door, don't be surprised if an excited golden retriever comes to greet you with a wagging tail and wet nose. The owners are equally inviting in their own way, with plenty of knowledge about their varied merchandise and the artisans behind it. The inventory is in turns sophisticated, unique, playful and all around cool; like doormats made out of recycled rubber, glass beaker hanging vases, vibrant and graphic wall decals, and enough handbags and jewelry in every shape and size to put you in a pleasure coma. The price range is wide--I witnessed a $6 vase and a $120 necklace in the same visit--but as far as gifts go, this gives a spectrum of options for anyone on your list. My personal wish list includes a metal Frida Kahlo bracelet and the funky, soft-to-the-touch animal appliquéd baby blankets by Michelle Jones. They also have a wonderful selection of one-of-a-kind blank cards by the register, and every purchase is provided with a fresh green shopping bag and bright orange tissue paper, (the store colors) which are classy enough to go right from the shop to the gift table with no additional trim. And thankfully, while much of the merchandise has a slight feminine slant, the ambiance is neutral hipster enough for guys to feel at home while they browse for that perfect present. Hopefully, it's for you. read more

This is my favorite Boston area shop! The items are wide-ranging and fun, and the staff are helpful and friendly. They have lovely clothing as well, which is a big plus for me when it comes to gift shops. It's a great place to browse, or come for a special occasion gift in mind. Books, housewares, jewelry, accessories, toiletries, cards and miscellaneous gifts. Very strongly recommended! read more

I've walked by this store many times, and finally stopped in this week- so glad that I did! If you are looking for a unique gift at a reasonable price, this is your place! Adorable glass ornaments, funky wallets and bags, beautiful handmade jewelry, and on top of everything else a friendly & welcoming store keeper- those are sometimes hard to come by. I was encouraged to take my time, open up the glass cases, take things out, try them on, etc. read more

Don't know what to get someone whose bday has snuck up on you? COME HERE. I go in expecting to stroll, and I've never left empty-handed. And I always leave smiling. read more

This is a charming little store with an interesting, fun, and affordable assortment of gifts. I've purchased some really cool jewelry there and some beautiful Christmas ornaments. I usually can't walk out of that store without buying something - either for me or for one of my lucky friends. The owner is usually on site and is very friendly and accommodating. read more

Seriously one of the best funky-type gift stores in Boston. Owner Phillip has a great eye for getting stuff in the store at all price points all of which is stuff really worth owning. Excellent jewelry, FANTASTIC BAGS, cool clothes, these are my favorite things. There is also always some funky housewares (Gama Go) and kooky baby stuff, but the purses and bags OH THE PURSES AND BAGS! Love! read more

Awesome store! They have everything from jewelry to stationary and journals to purses and even gag gifts. The space is clean and well organized and the staff members are great. The prices are not cheap but the products are quality. If you haven't been to On Centre, you need to check it out. read more

A great little shop to browse aimlessly for entertainment or to pick up a gift for someone special. They always have unique and interesting items so of course On Centre was my go to establishment to pick out my holiday Yankee Swap gifts (xl wine glass that holds an entire bottle of wine anyone?). The prices are fairly reasonable and it always feels good to support a well run local business. read more

Love it! I can't believe I have lived in JP for 5 years and I just went into this store. They have really cool, neat stuff and reasonable prices for fun gifts and unique finds. I especially love that they carry the Cuppow (turns a mason jar into a reusable mug) and now etched mason jars too. This is a must visit place in JP! read more

Terrific new and unusual things, from clothese, to wallets to china, etc...It is the best store around!!! Make the trip and you will be very happy that you did! read more

Great little JP gift shop. You can find everything from clothing, kitchen items to electronic gadgets. There are even some JP souvenirs. A great place to go for a unique gift or to find a $20 and under gift for a Yankee Gift Swap. Super helpful staff and they gift wrap too! read more

So much good stuff to be found here! Great letterpress, lots of Fred Flare, awesome locally-made jewelry and apparel. Plus, the staff is incredibly helpful and welcoming, especially the store's owner, who is frequently present. It's the perfect place for a last-minute gift, or for an everyday pick-me-up. The stock rotates pretty frequently--I've been in at least once a week since discovering it, and there are always new things. In spite of the patterned knee socks in the windows, the store doesn't have much that's too-too kitschy. Rather, it's filled with things that have whimsy and wit to them--things that are lovely, and just right. I defy you to go in, and not find anything you want to buy. read more