Recently got back into collecting single issues after a too-long hiatus and Queen City is better than ever! Emil Sr and Jr are helpful, inviting and down to earth guys. I've been to shops before where you get chastised for not coming often enough or not ordering enough books, but this spot feels like home no matter how long you're gone or how little you buy. Plenty of great recommendations come from not just the owners but other customers as well. I feel like every time I walk in the door I know I'll have a good conversation. My wife picks up my orders on the days I can't and she has commented on how friendly of a place it is. You won't find a better comic shop in the city! read more

Wish it was more organized. Couldn't find what I wanted. Expensive, I was wondering if they carry BLACK PANTHER comics but did have anymore left. read more

Super friendly and helpful with any questions I had. Very knowledgeable and an unbelievable selection.

It's free comic book day, and my kiddos had a great time picking out comic BOOKS as they were allowed 5 from one station, 3 inside the store and 1 on your way out the line. This year they are also giving away a free book to each child so that was awesome as my kids LOVE books. Note: the book selection is geared more towards the younger kids, my oldest picked a book she knows her little brother will enjoy (sibling love!). Now that we're home looking through the comics I would suggest spending some time to make sure it's appropriate for the kids. They have Nickelodeon comics as well (one of my kids picked a couple) which I'd prefer since the other ones are a bit too violent, even for my 8 year old. We've shopped at this store before and they have a huge selection - ask for help if you need anything in particular and the staff member will probably find it faster for you. read more

Queen City Book Store - My 8 year old's pick, she got the book set for her little bro . - Comic Books Near Me - Buffalo, New York

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One of the best comic book stores in Western New York. Excellent selection. Very helpful staff. As a librarian, I'm always looking for different suppliers for ordering books. After mentioning this to the owner, he gave me his business card. I might consider ordering graphic novels from here in the future. I will definitely come back in the future. read more

First off, I have to say that i'm fairly new to comics. I collected a little bit as a kid, but not very much. I really got into the hobby a little over a year ago. I was looking for a shop that I could go to that wouldn't make a new guy feel like a complete idiot and that I wouldn't mind taking my kids to. After visiting a few other local places I came to realize that that was a pretty tall order. A friend of mine suggested QC, so I gave them a call. Emil, and his staff are excellent! I really can't say enough good things about the staff at QC. They've been nothing but friendly and helpful and they are awesome with kids. My kids LOVE going with me every week. The shop itself can get a little cramped at times, but it's perfect. It adds to the whole experience. The staff is very knowledgeable and helpful. They have a huge selection of back issues and pretty much anything current. Also have a selection of comics for younger kids. If they don't have it, they can probably get it for you. They also have great deals on TPB's and graphic novels. On Sunday's all new books are 20% off and come with a free bag and board. They also have a great subscription service. If you are looking for comics in the Buffalo area- QC is the store to go to. Absolute best. read more

Queen City Book Store - Swiped straight from QC's Facebook page - Comic Books Near Me - Buffalo, New York

Super nice people brought in some old comics they were happy to give me an approximate grading so I could sell them for a fair price.

I went in looking for a specific comic that was released today. The owner was totally rude about it not being in stock and scolded me for not pre-ordering and when I asked if I could get on the re-order list he talked down to me about "never seeing my face before" and how he needs to "cater to his regulars who come in 52 weeks a year". I read comics all the time and have a massive collection. I attend San Diego Comic Con annually but usually make my purchases online due to convenience. I will never even attempt to give him my business again. I gave him my number for the "call me maybe" list if it comes in. But like...how do I become a regular? Because I would love to support a local business. But now I just don't care. He was a complete dick and completely unhelpful. My apologies for being a pretty girl and not meeting his nerd standards. Also, the overall selection of the store is terrible and the organization is a 3 out of 10 at best. What a terrible, terrible experience. Never again. read more

You can find all the new big titles (Batman, X-Men, Superman, etc.) and a bunch of smaller publishers. They have a ton of trades and if they don't have one available at the store they are more than happy to order it for you. They literally take your name down and call you when the book is in. The store always seems to have discounts on trades and single issues. I like to visit at least once a month. I don't read as much as I used to but I still enjoy coming in to browse. The last time I was here was for Free Comic Book Day. They had 3 tables with free comic books. You could get a total of 9 free comics between all the tables! That's a lot of comics! They also carry a few other super hero, geek related things like metal stickers and some Funkos. I need to go back to pick up that Wonder Woman metal sticker. read more

I love this shop. I've been going here for a few years and I think the staff is some of the best around - knowledgable, friendly, always willing to chat or suggest something new. They really bring the social atmosphere back to collecting, not only in the shop but also on Facebook, instead of some shops who won't be named here (but will get a review on my Yelp) who have totally 86'd customer service and any semblance of community on their social media. Their back issues are epic - I've found a lot of great older Vertigo and other rare-ish stuff here for $1and they constantly have good sales (currently 25% off all graphic novels & tpb's or trade paper backs for the uninitiated). Overall I'd say they carry more mainstream stuff, but their indie selection is all pretty good and they have a section of alternative/local comics. The owner, Emil, is an all around swell guy and also heavily involved with local low-budget horror cinema and helps arrange many of the local comicons. He is part of my trifecta of favorite local business owners (along with Sam at Emily's Restaurant and Tom at Bella Mia's). This is one of the few comic/hobby shops locally that sports a female on staff as well, Virginia (my Nerd Hero), and the lady KNOWS her stuff. She is also a big gamer. Yes, this place is outdated, but it is well organized and clean and not HALF the dump a lot of the local hobby places are. Besides, I don't come for how "cool" it looks - I come to have a chat about my favorite titles, discover some new ones, and get a deal while still supporting a local business. There is off street parking if you take a left on Windspear just north of the shop. There is a public lot right behind the gas station. read more

Although unimpressed with their inattentiveness, I have recently been sent the following notes by one of their self-proclaimed representatives. Joseph G. from Lockport New York writes via the complement feature: "I was there when you were. You're the chubby one and your girlfriend looking thing has glasses right? You were looking at a Jem comic. You came in with this elitist attitude. We had a long conversation about you after you left. You should have stuck around, it was funnier than the hulk/Thor conversation. You should stick to ordering things off Amazon because 1) we wouldn't have to look at your cellulite infused double chin and 2) we could still smell a mix of curry powder and body odor after you Rosie O'Donnell looking freaks left. Stay out of Queen City." 1/1/16 And "I don't see the relevance of your review. It's nonsensical, confusing, and poorly written. By the way, I was at queen city books the day you and your thing came in. Everything you wrote was a lie. That's not how it happened at all. You gave us a dirty look when you first walked in and had an attitude the whole time. You both smelled really bad, like curry or something, and you were actually making us sick." 2/8/16 I might add that the astute comic book fan would immediately realize that my original review was written 11/4/2014 and Joseph here mentions I was purportedly seeking a Jem comic book, a comic book that wouldn't even be released until March or 2015. Needless to say, the only nonsensical part of this review is Joseph's. However, even though he was not present at the time I visited the store, his representation of this establishment indicates that this is not the kind of comic book store anyone should want to frequent. read more

So I need to preface this review by saying these experiences are from 2017 however, we've heard nothing but nonsense since then and continue to avoid the shop to this very day. So the first interaction I had with this shop was while visiting buffalo to decide if I wanted to live here, I collect 90s Superboy Comics and the big sign boasting a backlog of old comics brought me in, however upon entering I was just completely overwhelmed with just...how poorly organized this place was. Like wow, I'm used to having to dig through bins upon bins for old comics but I don't want to have to search through bullshit to find current running books and comics. Not like the staff are any helps considering they're more concerned with their riveting conversations such as "why the hell is batwoman gay is so unnecessary" or my personal favorite "it's so unrealistic the new Thor is a girl, feminists are taking over!" When you finally do feel their attention to request help finding a comic, you're belittled like how DARE you not know where a comic is, you would've had it if you weren't a fucking noob! Which brings me to my second, and ultimately last visit, had friends visiting during free comic book day and we were happily showing them our preferred and favorite comic shops, our friend was looking for a specific issue that our shop was sold out of so begrugingly I called Queen City to ask if they had a copy and if they could hold it for us, the response I got was and I quote "of course we've got (blank) we're a comic shop that respects ourself not like whatever other f*cking shops exist around here. You want us to hold it for you? Sorry we only hold things for actual local customers who shop with us, but you're welcome to come over and try to get it before someone else most likely does!" And proceeded to laugh and hang up on us. We ended up going, despite hesitations, and not only did we not buy the comic despite them probably having it, we also got hassled for thinking photos of old monster movies sitting on the free comic book table with no sign saying otherwise we're free and in fact not costing any money, which we were promptly yelled at about. Idk homie, maybe put like a sign saying "hey these aren't free" or better yet DONT PUT THEM ON YOUR FREE COMIC BOOK TABLE We ultimately just decided to leave and went to a shop way out of the way that thankfully had the comic we we're looking for. Tldr; there are plenty other comic shops in buffalo that aren't gonna be elitist pricks to anyone who's not a cis white dude, go there and steer clear of this place read more

Comic Sans Nothing! I can't say enough about Queen City Book Store! I first started going to this shop when it was a little teeny place on Bailey. Good thing they have a bigger place, because they're comics wouldn't fit now. They have Superman, and Batman, and Spiderman, and Hulk Man, and Avegners, and Simpsons, and Star Track and Dr Who, and stuff like that! I dont know about Li'l Abner. But maybe because there's so much to look at my mind was boogled! I cant get in to not touching my comics, so I go here so I can touch! Best comic book store in Buffalo, and that's saying that it's the best! PROS: Theyre pros! CONS: Mild patina of geek. read more

Comics fan. New to Buffalo and went to almost every comic store around. All have been pretty great as far as I'm concerned. The owner is super personable and helpful. They have a great selection of current and great options in the $1 and $2 bins as well. They also have a good selection of trade books too if you prefer to read that way. A must stop shop for any WNY comics fan. read more

Brief visit while staying in Niagara Falls. Good selection and organized well. Large selection of $1.00 books with some good stuff included. read more

Queen City Book Store - $1.00 books- great for new collectors. - Comic Books Near Me - Buffalo, New York

This is hands down the best comic shop in the area. The staff is very knowledgeable and helpful. Their selection is not the best I've experienced, but it is far better than other shops in the area. Emil has welcomed friends of mine who were not very knowledgeable about comics and recognized me after not having been to the shop in nearly 2 years because of a move. This isn't super relevant to people only looking to visit the shop, but this shop also organizes Buffalo Comicon at the Buffalo Niagara Convention Center in the fall, which has seen significant growth the past few years. This event is definitely worth checking out if you are interested in comic and pop culture conventions and happen to be in the area. read more

Great comic shop. I love comics, and while I don't read as many regular titles as I used to, this is the place I go to grab those must-haves. The owner and staff have surprised me with the occasional discount "just because." They offered to special order a comic and call me when it was in, and they actually did call. Very cool. The shop's selection is solid, and parking is easy. Being across from the Lake Effect diner makes for a nice weekend breakfast/lunch trip. On a special note, these are the guys who run the Queen City Comic-con, so I have to thank them for bringing in Jim Steranko as a guest this past year. It was a thrill to meet the man, get an autograph, and to hear his stories in person. read more

My absolute favorite comic book store!! They always take care of me here and notice when I haven't been around in awhile. Very knowledgeable on comics and great for conversation here. They will also order any comic they don't have that you want. Highly recommend if you're looking for comics! read more

Boys, boys. Don't write off a lady as a no sale. If an unfamiliar face walks in, and three employees continue to chat without engaging the customer to help orient them to what appears to be a treasure trove of back issues, the customer may walk out without finding their coveted, missing ish. read more

Friendly and very knowledgeable staff, decent collection of graphic novels, great location on Main Street, and a decent supply of New Releases. My favorite comic shop in Buffalo. If nothing else it's got that "comfortable-comic-quaintness". And the shop's "Comic Croonies" are not loud or in anyway too talkative with the staff as to prevent me from asking questions or purchasing anything. I would definitely be back. The Queen City Knights online video blog is an Awesome idea btw. read more

I've been a customer of Queen City Bookstore since 1968.I've dealt with Emil,his dad and also his brother Jeff when they opened another store on Transit road in Depew.I've been collecting comics since 1958 and i have to say that i received the best service and deals from this establishment.No other comic store that i visited throughout the U.S. can compare.I still continue to buy comics from Queen City and continue to receive the same quality of service to this day.A customer for life. Bruce C. read more

I only went in there to get a gift card but they asked who it was for and threw in some promo materials to make it a more robust gift. I'm not a comic person myself but the staff went the extra mile and that's really worth a lot. read more

I've visited several different Comic shops in the Buffalo area for many years. I always find myself going back to Queen City Book Store. And for the past 5 years... that's where I've stayed. Friendly WELCOMING people. Emil Novak Sr. and the crew at Queen City Book Store love comics. And they love sharing it with their customers. As well as being a strong presence in the community with supporting local film makers and local comic book artists with the Art Group VISIONS. AND putting on the Official Buffalo Comicon! If you love comics.... Queen City is the place. If you wanna start loving comics.... Queen City is where you wanna start! An ALL AGE place for comic lovers. The way comic shops SHOULD be. And remember... October 5th IS Queen City Book Store day in Buffalo NY! read more

My favorite comic book store I'm Buffalo. The staff is friendly and are willing to chat. Other comic book stores usually have a staff that seem to think they're better than you. The staff are friendly and willing to help. My only issue is that the rarely have the trade paperbacks. You can order it but it doesn't have the same effect as the actually picking it up. read more

A comic book store for comic book lovers. Unlike many comic shops that dedicate shelf and wall space to tees and toys and busts (who collects these things???), Queen City offer... comics! Whether you seek a graphic novel or comic books, they offer a wide variety and at reasonable prices (graphic novels were 25% off cover price!!!) The female owner rattled off comic lore and titles with a mastery observed by long time nerds, and I mean this as a compliment. Friendly, well stocked and reasonable, this is a comic book store for true readers and collectors. A must visit in the area. read more

Its a fun place to be for people new and old to comics. The staff are all very learned on their products and a friendly to talk to. Its a must to visit at least once. read more

I have known Emil and his entire family for years. I have been to many other comic book shops around the country, but no store can replace Queen City in my heart. Some people might call it cluttered, but I call it cozy. There has always been a feeling of warmth when entering the door surrounded by some of the best literature ever written and run by a family of grand traditions and love for the hobby. It's always been a trove of treasure for me, a world of unceasing knowledge and wonder. Emil and his family and staff keep that tradition going. Its hard work, but these people love the work and show it. I confirm the service is superb as other reviews have said. You ask, you get. But the real core is Emil Sr. who is the rock. Ask a question and you will get a real answer. He truly cares about his customers and you can a college degree in comic literature if you listen to him. But if you can't handle the truth........ You never have to be embarrassed about who you are or being labelled. I could always come out of the closet to be a comic book guy. I always felt accepted in the store and always had fun with everyone. Comic books and comic book movies would never be where they are today without people and places like Queen City Bookstore. They kept comics alive as a niche, which in the past; people looked down upon as childish and unworthy of a place in literature. But people like Emil kept the traditions alive and deserves a lot of credit for hanging in there. If you are an true or developing fan of comic book literature, you will never find a more fantastical place than the Queen City Bookstore. As I leave Buffalo to live some where else, I wish that Queen City Books lasts forever. I have requested to be buried in a Queen City tee shirt with my favorite comics and to have Emil preside over my grave. Just kidding... I think..... read more

Awesome little spot. Plenty of comics to look for. The owners and workers were awesome. Definitely be back every week for the newest issues. 1st time there and I wasn't let down read more

a classic. these kinds of places don't exist anymore. been coming here since childhood, glad its still in business. someone has to be that comic book guy from.the Simpson's . read more

Store is in a good location and had great selection. Can easily spend hours in store. Only downfall was you had to ask for midrange priced comic books which were behind cashier. Will return next time I'm in area. read more

Next to Buffalo Chicken Wings, Niagara Falls, the Bills ( Go Gaints!!),etc one of the bright spot while I was in law school. Thank you for making my time spent in Buffalo enjoyable. I truly am appreciative. read more

Emil, and everyone else who works here makes you feel very comfortable and at home. Always helpful I would strongly recommend this store. I have never had a bad experience there read more

I am a fan of this place (even tho the Customer Service is a little suspect) But they have tons and tons of comics and back issues and are pretty decently priced. If your looking for a comic you cant find anywhere else your likely to find it here folks! read more

Great shop.Very friendly,knowlegable,fair,and helpful staff.Great selection and prices!