Best Places To Shop In Torrance

There are hundreds of places to shop in Torrance, from mom-and-pop-owned stores to one of the largest malls in the U.S. Clothing, art, toys, antiques, books — you’ll find it all, and more, in Torrance.

Put on some comfy shoes and get ready to find gifts for loved ones, items for the home and, while you’re at it, splurge for some great products for yourself that you’ve always wanted.

THE ROADIUM

Featuring more than 450 vendors, The Roadium Open Air Market is a treasure trove of jewelry, furniture, clothing, art, crafts and so much more. Especially popular at this 15-acre outdoor swap meet are: Antique Mondays, held every Monday; and Vintage Days — held on the Thursday and Friday before the second Sunday of the month, where you’ll find classic wares of all types. Located near El Camino College and open from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. every day (except Christmas and New Year’s Day), admission is only a few dollars per vehicle.

HISTORIC OLD TORRANCE

Featuring a variety of stores and restaurants, Historic Old Torrance offers wonderful shopping opportunities with a little history mixed in. The Torrance Historical Society and Museum is an excellent place to learn about the buildings and colorful past of the downtown area.

Here you can enjoy unique and innovative shops such as:

• Jaunts: Carrying women’s apparel and accessories that “blend California cool with New York sophistication,” the store includes creative small brands and styles by local designers.
• Bohemian Coco: This Latina-owned store often features new arrivals of unique women’s fashions, accessories and everyday jewelry.
• Marsatta Chocolate: “Los Angeles’ First Bean-to-Bar Chocolate Company” eliminates the bitterness, uses less sugar and creates some of the tastiest European-inspired chocolate bars, bonbons and snacks.
• The DropOut Cyclery: You’ll find a wide selection of high-end bikes at The DropOut, and this direct-to-consumer shop — which cuts out the middleman — also repairs bikes and sells others on consignment.
• Torrance Antique Street Faire: More than 200 vendors offer collectibles, antiques and treasures at this popular event, which has been held on the fourth Sunday of every month for 27 years.

DEL AMO FASHION CENTER

Check out the Del Amo Fashion Center, one of the largest shopping malls in the U.S. This retail destination boasts more than 250 stores, as well as a movie theater, restaurants and a welcoming atmosphere. All of the major department stores are featured, as are many top retail locations, such as Dick’s Sporting Goods and Crate & Barrel.

Some of the smaller establishments, however, are special shops that you can’t find many other places. A few highlights include:

• Be Awana: Made by the indigenous women of the Andean community, the handcrafted products at Be Awana showcase unique art, clothing and jewelry designs, production techniques and history of the culture. The store is set to open soon.
• Books Kinokuniya: Offering a variety of materials in English and Japanese, Books Kinokuniya has a huge collection of manga, graphic novels, art and design books, magazines and more. This is a great spot to find gift items for anime lovers.
• Creative Joy Studios: This woman-owned art studio is the perfect place to let your imagination run free. Patrons of all ages can design unique art projects, take art classes and find great gifts. For a truly unique experience, book a birthday party, team-building event or bridal shower and let the fun begin.
• Cleo Centric: You’ll find trendy, high-quality women’s fashion wear at an affordable price at Cleo Centric. From everyday wear to clothes that make a definite statement, there’s something for everyone and the customer service is second to none.
• Gabbiano: Shop for an assortment of Italian fashion apparel and accessories for men and women. From shoes and perfume to suits and dresses — as well as a large selection of Hill Burry leather products — they have it all, and tailoring is free on all Gabbiano clothing.
• Kouhigh Toys: Owned by a group of young Asian toy lovers, Kouhigh Toys features the latest plushies, pendants and interactive products for kids and collectors alike. Blind box toys make every discovery an adventure, and art toys and building blocks provide plenty of opportunity to unleash your imagination.
• California Welcome Center: Make the most of your time in Torrance with the help of the knowledgeable California Welcome Center staff. Get directions, plan itineraries, find discounted tickets, shop for locally sourced merchandise and receive tips on the best deals in Torrance and surrounding communities. The center is located on the main level, entrance 1.

TOP RESTAURANTS IN TORRANCE SHOPPING CENTERS

With all of this shopping, you’ll need to take a break or two to reenergize. Fortunately, there are plenty of dining choices at each of Torrance’s shopping centers.

At Del Amo Fashion Center, there are more than 60 eateries, everything from Auntie Anne’s Pretzels to the Michelin-starred restaurant, Din Tai Fung. Spacious patio cafes combine delicious food and the beautiful outdoors, or sit inside and people-watch while you recharge for more shopping.

Historic Old Torrance has dozens of establishments sure to please anyone’s palate. Enjoy wonderful Brazilian barbecue at By Brazil, authentic Japanese cuisine at Kappo Irifune, American tavern-style food at Local Kitchen and so much more.

YOUR HOLIDAY SHOP STOP

No matter what holiday you’re celebrating, Torrance is the perfect place to shop for everything you need for family and friends. You’ll find plenty of gift ideas, from artwork created by local artists to beer and wine sets for the beverage aficionados on your list.

Enjoy the fun and exciting activities and events in Torrance throughout the year. Thanksgiving feasts, Christmas fun, New Year’s Eve blowouts, Valentine’s Day’s romance packages and July 4th festivities are just a few of the good holiday times you can have in Torrance, that is, when you’re not shopping.

BOOK YOUR STAY IN TORRANCE

While shopping in Torrance, it’s always a good idea to get some rest so you’ll have the energy to shop some more. Stay a day or two and make the most of the excellent hotel options available in Torrance. A good night’s sleep is essential for quality shopping time, so start planning your stay in the heart of the South Bay today.