DaShop, a spin on “The Shop,” is a local shop with everything from collectible cards and brand-name toys to plastic model kits and remote control cars. They specialize in individual Pokémon and Yu-Gi-Oh! cards, so customers don’t have to search through booster packs or boxes. Located on Elizabeth Street, they are open seven days a week and have served the Chinatown community for over 15 years.

Born and raised in Brooklyn, the owner Vic, is a child of refugees who escaped the Vietnam War and sailed the long voyage to America. After arriving in America with nothing, Vic’s father worked various jobs, from a busboy to a chef to eventually owning and opening his restaurant. Sadly, his father was diagnosed with cancer, which prompted Vic to rethink his life. Inspired by his father’s work ethic and entrepreneurial spirit, Vic decided to open his own business to pull his family out of poverty.

Vic first opened a gift shop in Brooklyn but ultimately ventured to Manhattan’s Chinatown, his second home. He used to play handball and basketball at the local parks and often shopped at Elizabeth Center, a hub for retail shops and anime culture. He noticed that Manhattan’s Chinatown had an unfair stigma for being known for counterfeit and inferior goods. Vic wanted to show a different side of Chinatown by opening DaShop to provide high-quality toys and collectibles for the community.

However, it is often difficult for small businesses like DaShop to stay relevant and compete with large corporations, especially during the pandemic. Thankfully, Vic accumulated a lot of loyal customers over the years. Stores like DaShop and people like Vic are why the Chinatown community continues to thrive. So next time you are in Chinatown, check ’em out!

Fun Fact: Kingston is Vic’s adorable puppy and DaShop’s mascot. Unfortunately, he is not for sale, but you can visit DaShop anytime to pet him!

📍 Dashop Corporation
8 Elizabeth St, New York, NY 10013