A new comic book store, Long Island Comics, has officially opened its doors in Lynbrook, offering a fresh, community-focused destination for comic book enthusiasts. The store, on 1 Stauderman Ave., founded by Tes Choudri and Jim Michalak, aims to breathe new life into the Long Island comic scene, blending nostalgia with modern fandom.
Choudri, a Franklin Square resident, and Michalak weren’t sure what to expect when they first opened their store, but were pleasantly surprised by the overwhelming turnout.
"It was really a nice, pleasant surprise," said Choudri. "We had a steady stream of comic creators, artists, and writers, and the place was packed all day."
While Long Island Comics is a new venture, its owners bring years of experience as collectors, hobbyists and fans themselves. Before launching the shop, Choudri and Michalak worked in the corporate world, including finance and operations. However, their passion for comic books led them to shift gears.
"We wanted to be part of the hobby, not just outsiders looking in," Choudri said.
The store features a wide range of comic books, from high-end collectibles to new weekly releases. Choudri notes that the customer base spans all ages, with many parents bringing their children into the store to share their love of comics.
"We’re seeing families come in, with parents introducing their kids to comics, and even grandparents with their grandchildren," he said. "It’s really great to see that generational connection."
In addition to comics, Long Island Comics also caters to collectors by offering rare and valuable items. One of the most prized possessions in the store is a first appearance of an X-Men comic, which Choudri described as one of the most exciting finds in their collection.
Long Island Comics stands out not only for its wide selection, but also for its deep engagement with the local community. The owners have forged close relationships with neighboring businesses, including the Lynbrook Bagels and Elsie Lane.
“Everyone’s been really supportive," said Michalak. "We’re all working together to create a strong local network."
Social media has played a pivotal role in the store’s success so far. With a strong presence on Instagram, Long Island Comics has connected with fans not just on Long Island, but across the country. While the store is still in its early stages, Choudri and Michalak are already planning to expand its reach through online streaming events and partnerships with local conventions.
"We’ve done some sales through Instagram, and we’re looking to do more live-streaming sales and events soon," Choudri said.
The store’s location in Lynbrook, nestled between bustling shops and restaurants, offers a central spot for fans and collectors. The owners worked tirelessly to get the shop up and running, with significant effort spent on renovations, inventory management and ordering stock. Choudri admits that sourcing items for the store has been a mix of reaching out to people looking to sell collections and buying items online.
"We’ve been buying collections for years, and when we knew we were going to open the store, we started reaching out to people more actively," he said.
The new comic shop is expected to serve as a hub for both local comic fans and collectors alike. With weekly shipments of new titles, a growing pull list for regular customers, and events planned for 2025, Long Island Comics is quickly becoming a must-visit destination for fans in the area.
Looking ahead, Choudri and Michalak are excited about the potential for growth and expansion.
"We want to make sure we build something that lasts and is meaningful to the community," said Michalak. "This is a labor of love, and we’re thrilled to see it come to life."
For more information on Long Island Comics, visit their Instagram page: LIComicShop.