The Ultimate Comic Lover's Guide to SF

Al's Comics is all about Al. It is entirely possible that he is your future. A classic comic eccentric, Al may help or heckle you, but he should always be respected. He … knows more about comics than you, and this is his turf. He can be your benevolent guide or a complete ass. Either way, you leave with a story and an armful of comics. [link]

A comic mecca well worth the journey to the East Bay, Comic Relief has an encyclopedic collection that includes books, classics, indies, trades, and toys. Even though the … store is large, it's well organized enough that a first timer can navigate with ease. The staff are happy, helpful, and know their shit. Also, cats! [link]

This small, simple museum and its attached store are a must visit for all true fans of comic art. The permanent collection and rotating exhibits cast a wide net, touching … on political cartoons, local artists, comic strips, and animation. Make sure catch the current Edward Gorey exhibit, showing through January, or the sofa will get you. (photo) [link]

So, it's an urban, Japanese pop-culture influenced store (spun off from a magazine) that's also a gallery, selling incredibly cool toys, prints, magazines, clothes and … comics. Why not? Don't try and pin GR down, just bask in its hipness, spend way too much time browsing, and maybe discover a cool new zine or artist. [link]

2008's first comic convention is going to be held in SF at the Moscone Center, February 22-28. Wondercon, Comic-con's NorCal not-so-little brother (last year they had … over 20,000 attendees), covers comics, sci-fi, and movies. Everyone from artists to publishers come out to give talks, host screenings, and mingle with their fanbase. Pre-register online and get to work on your costume for the annual Wondercon Masquerade; the kids pictured are last year's winners. [link]

Kayo is a kitschy wonderland beloved by kitsch poster boy John Waters. How's that for a recommendation? Their one-of-a-kind selection of old pulp fiction, softcore smut, … comics, and vintage books will dare you to leave empty handed. Not your usual bookstore, Kayo is like a trashy little time machine. That's a compliment. (photo) [link]

The sleekest spot on the list, Isotope is an inviting comic boutique (they call themselves a "comic book lounge") in Hayes Valley. While not the most expansive selection … in the city, everything they do have has been thoughtfully chosen by proprietor James Sime, including plenty of small press and self-published titles. Like shit some genius 8th grader drew in detention and copied at Kinkos with his allowance. Isotope makes up for the lack of back issues with awesome atmosphere and a prized "Comic Rockstars Toilet Seat Museum." [link]

Manga-philes flock to this J-town bookstore located on the second floor of the Kinokuniya Mall, across the way from the Kinokuniya Stationery store. It has a large manga … section stocked with tons of titles translated into English. Be adventurous and look through the Japanese titles too. And don't leave without checking out the design section and flipping through the magazines! So bossy, I know.Photo] [link]

Owners play a big part in making or breaking a comic book store, and Gary definitely makes it for the Comic Outpost. Let him, or one of his equally friendly and … knowledgeable minions, be your guide thorough the well-stocked mainstream comics, indies, and back issues. Stop by on a Wednesday for fresh comics and maybe make some friends while you're at it. Comic Outpost is the classic, local comic shop you remember from when you were a sexually frustrated, pimply 14-year-old. [link]