Doki Doki offers numerous collectibles, the latest trends, and merchandise to fuel your anime passion. Whether you’re a longtime or first-time customer, this vibrant, one-of-a-kind anime and kawaii shop has incredible goods waiting for you. With a friendly atmosphere and welcoming workers, Doki Doki is the one-stop shop for fandom items in Lakewood.
The shop takes pride in being the only anime-kawaii shop in Ohio and specializes in fandom products that only this store carries. Its products ensure that every fan—young or old—will find something exceptional and feel included.
“I love everything about Japanese culture,” Doki Doki owner Ami Rizek said. “I grew up in Lakewood and I also went to Lakewood High School. I didn’t have anything like this, and I wish I did. … I opened up a space so that other people, just like me, can find a space they feel comfortable in, belong in, and make friends.”
This shop celebrated its second anniversary on Dec. 1 and had daily deals for specific items throughout the week. It provides a place for fans to find perhaps uncommon products for their passion.
“I first heard about it before they had opened when my mom saw a Facebook post that they were opening,” longtime customer Mallory Dickson said. “I even had a timer on my phone for the opening date.”
Known for its welcoming environment, customers rave about the experience they receive and the acceptance within the store. While the shop may not cater to everyone, all visitors receive the same warm treatment.
“A place where you can be accepted for whoever you are,” customer Quinn Waltz said.
Not only does this store contain numerous fandom items, but every step around the store is full of excitement. Every turn of a corner reveals a wall of fabulous books and products.
“Doki Doki is a Japanese onomatopoeia for your heart racing from excitement,” Rizek said. “So you would say, the heart is going ‘doki doki’. It means your heart is beating fast from excitement. So that’s what I want people to feel when they come in here.”
Every shelf is stocked with rare collectibles and the latest fan-favorite merchandise, and it specializes in Japanese imports—specifically anime and kawaii items—ensuring that every item is adorable. Customers have a passion for such cute products.
“I love everything here, and I know about everything here. If I had to pick one thing, I guess the Manga books,” Rizek said. “I’m a massive manga reader, and I love that we have such a huge selection. … We have something for anyone who loves anime. … We have something for those fandoms that can’t find it anywhere else.”
Doki Doki provides exclusive products, and the prices are phenomenal. Customers can buy multiple items at once without breaking the bank. Rizek works hard to keep prices affordable for everyone.
“I like going there, and the amount of things I get to buy that I like,” Waltz said.
Still looking for that one special gift? Doki Doki is the perfect place to purchase your last-minute Christmas gifts and stocking stuffers for your anime lover. Don’t wait until the last minute—exclusive Christmas plushies, figures, and other products will fly off the shelf before you know it.
“There are special edition Hatsune Miku figures that come out each year,” Rizek said. “Their Winter edition will sometimes have Christmas themes or winter-themed things. … Also, every year, the Pokemon trading card game comes out with a Pokemon advent calendar, and we are already sold out.” Buy ahead of time, and it will save you last-minute gift runs!
Stop by and check out this unique shop. The service, prices, and products will keep you returning to support this adorable store.
“I just think that it’s a great place to support locally, and if you’re going there, you’re supporting good people who have the best in mind for the community, everyone in Lakewood, and beyond,” Dickson said.
