Jacksonville’s Riverside neighborhood is no stranger to cool, eclectic spots, but the newest addition to Stockton Street, Black Cat Comics, is something special. Nestled in the heart of this hipster Silk Road, this comic shop is an absolute darling of a location, offering a cozy and welcoming space for comic nerds.

A First Look

Walking up to Black Cat Comics, I was immediately drawn in. The double doors were propped open, and behind the counter stood Dan, the friendly shop owner, greeting customers with a warm smile. From the moment I stepped inside, I knew I had found something special.

The first thing that caught my eye? An incredible selection of comics. Dan’s wall books cater to a wide variety of tastes, and his pricing is refreshingly reasonable. Unlike some shops where you might find a few gems hidden among the shelves, Black Cat Comics boasts an entire collection of solid picks, no boring walls to be found.

The Secret Behind the Collection

Curious about how he sourced such an impressive inventory, I asked Dan about his process. As it turns out, he's been buying and collecting for over 11 years, always keeping an eye on the market. Anytime a buyer’s market presented itself, he made sure to snatch up as many collections as possible. And it shows—this place is packed with quality finds.

For example, I spotted a copy of Spider-Gwen #1 at a great price. As I grabbed it, I noticed another copy right behind it—as if I was in a Blockbuster Video plucking the pick of the week which had many copies available for rent. That level of stock and selection is rare for a new shop. I'm hoping that doesn't change as the locals catch wind of the place.

More Than Just Comics

Beyond the fantastic comic selection, the shop has some great extras. In a small back room, you’ll find unbagged and boarded comics, plus a selection of affordable used DVDs—a nostalgic touch that adds to the store’s character. Dan also carries Funko Pop! figures, manga, and other collectibles, making it a bit of a one-stop shop.

The aesthetic of the store is just as inviting as its selection. A huge mural of a black cat, done in the style of a traditional tattoo artist, dominates the back wall. The deep purple walls create a cozy, intimate atmosphere that’s the polar opposite of a sterile big-box retailer. The second I walked in, I felt right at home.

Meet the Man Behind the Shop

Dan isn’t just a comic book aficionado—he’s also a drummer for a band called The Blind Ferrets. If you want to check them out, you can find their music here.

Visit Black Cat Comics

If you’re in Jacksonville and love comics, Black Cat Comics is a must-visit. Whether you're a seasoned collector or just looking to browse, the store’s welcoming vibe and top-tier selection make it a standout in the local comic book scene.

Stop in, say hi to Dan, and discover your next great read!

📍 Black Cat Comics
881 Stockton St, Jacksonville, FL 32204