Amalgam Comics & Coffee in Philadelphia is The East Coast’s First Black Woman-Owned Comics Shop.

Amalgam Comics & Coffee

The city of Philadelphia is known for its cool cutting edge mix of shops and eclectic local culture. From fashion to art and literature, Philly truly has something for everyone. The city that also boasts the largest black-owned comics shop in the United States, Showcase Comics on South Street, is now home to the largest black woman-owned comics shop on the East Coast.

Established by Temple University graduate Ariell R. Johnson, the newly opened Amalgam Comics & Coffeehouse is quickly gaining a following for its hybrid concept and unique atmosphere.

Johnson was inspired to open the shop while still in college. At the time, she would frequent a coffee shop and comic book store which were located across the street from one another. After the coffee shop unexpectedly closed, a lightbulb went off in Johnson’s head. She soon made plans to launch Amalgam.

Johnson created Amalgam Comics and Coffee with inclusivity in mind. She hopes that the space will help encourage diversity in the world of comic books.


Amalgam Comics & Coffeehouse, Inc.’s Photos – Amalgam Comics & Coffeehouse, Inc. | Facebook

“We will be a legit store, so expect to see the heavy hitters that we all know and love,” she says. “But in addition to those usual suspects, we want to showcase diverse comics, creators, and characters. We think that comics are for everyone and anyone that loves comics-women, people of color, and the LGBTQ community. We will actively look to stock titles that showcase people in these groups, right long with Superman, Batman, Captain America, and Thor.”

Johnson says that her staff plays an important part in making Amalgam a diverse place.

The shop, which has been open for a short time now, is already seeing growing sales and new customers.

Amalgam Comics & Coffeehouse

2578 Frankford Ave.

First Floor, Philadelphia