Sure, Laurel Park is a historic neighborhood known for its restored Arts & Crafts and Florida Cracker cottages and its proximity to Main Street and downtown Sarasota—not to mention Burns Square and the Sarasota Bayfront. And sure, as the epicenter of Florida’s cultural coast Sarasota is well known for its fine arts. But did you know that Laurel Park also boasts one of the best comics and gaming shops you’ll ever find? The Dark Side, located at 408 S. Washington Boulevard (in a small plaza alongside a yoga studio and barber shop, among several others) is both a comic book shop and the home of Sarasota’s biggest gaming community.
Creative Loafing recently tabbed The Dark Side the Best Gaming/Hobby Location on the Suncoast. Here’s what they had to say:
Looking for a great gaming and hobby destination that has something for everyone? Well, it is time to crossover to the Dark Side, Sarasota’s premier comic book and family gaming location. Visit the state of the art gaming center and play Heroclix, Magic the Gathering, Warhammer, Xbox 360, Star Wars, Yu-Gi-Oh!, Dungeons & Dragons, World of Warcraft, or anything your gaming heart desires. You’ll also find a huge selection of back issues, graphic novels, games and collectibles of all flavors.
The Dark Side provides parking in a rear lot accessed via Julia Place. Of course, if you are fortunate enough to live in or near Laurel Park you can always reach them on foot or bike. Their phone number is 941-363-0840, and you can find The Dark Side online at darksidecomics.com. If you, your kids, or your grandkids are comic book or gaming enthusiasts, The Dark Side is not to be missed.