Tuesday, April 14, 2009

Our Neighborhood Artisan

One of the biggest frustrations living in this part of the world is the domination of chains, with lowest common denominator products and services. But once in a while, you come across a gem, like Alex Shoe Repair round our corner. "Alex" (he deems his Mexican name impossible to pronounce) is a true artisan, trained by the best in the Haute-Shoe business. Better: he is an artist. And not only with shoes: bags, jackets, hats, he'll repair and resuscitate anything beyond your wildest hopes. And for a ridiculously low price.

The hitch? Alex is a true artiste -- in the French sense of the word -- as his messy atelier bursting with years of discarded items and multicultural memorabilia attests. You never know when his shop will be open, or when you will get your things back. And when you do, don't be shy to spend hours discussing politics, culture and women with him. But looking at your possessions repaired in such a beautiful way, you will beam at the entire experience -- human & all.
photo LA Frog

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