For many years, I couldn't be bothered to spend much time in South Pasadena. Then I moved from Silver Lake to Echo Park, and gradually, I started to connect with SaMaA (San Marino Adjacent.)
I just made that acronym up.
The Thursday evening farmer's market, the diverse and upbeat crowd, the blend of old (craftsman bungalows) and new (a Metro shops, well-curated hyper-unique shops and cafés).
Mark Aquino's Prospect is in that latter category, a bookshop dedicted to rare, unusual--and wonderful and inspiring--cookbooks. It is also right next to and connected with Two Kids, that minimally elegant coffee spot on Mission.
I'd first spotted the Ojas speakers and classic midcentury furniture through the front window, saw the books, and was instantly intrigued as to what exactly was going on in there.
When I finally wandered in, I got lost in the vast array of cookbooks for sale. What an incredible selection, a cross section that speaks to the most interesting and inspired of books on the art and habit of cooking. From almost private printings and regional paperbacks to massive multi-volume editions, Mark's selection is without equal. As is his warm and attentive manner of doing business.
How personal is the service? Mark offered to open the shop for me on a day when he was technically closed, just so I could buy a gift certificate. Pretty cool.
If you love to cook, or need a gift for someone who does, and want to benefit from a truly one of a kind selection, Prospect has my highest recommendation. You will be delighted. read more