Manhattan Judaica

** Let me say this: I've never experienced homophobia or racism while shopping at Manhattan Judaica. Had I encountered such unnecessary bigotry, I would certainly not have patronized this store. **

If you find yourself devoid of ANYTHING that is culturally or religiously significant to those of the Jewish persuasion, Manhattan Judaica can hook you up fo' sho'.

Recently, I found myself in need of a new kippah (yarmulke), as my beautiful blue knit kippah was beginning to show its age. So, I said to myself, "Self - to a Judaica store!"

After finding myself in Midtown Manhattan, I stumbled upon Manhattan Judaica. Who could miss it, after all? There is a huge sign pointing the way, and the store's overhead sign is also large and in charge.

Needless to say, the kippot selection here is massive. Regardless of the type of kippah you wear (knit, suede, leather, etc.), they've got several sizes and varieties for you to choose from, and for the most part they are moderately priced (I purchased a black and white knit kippah for $9...not horribly expensive).

After viewing the kippot and choosing the one that I would call mine (and ignoring the "McCain 2008" yarmulke - as if!), I browsed the rest of the store. I was truly impressed with the selection.

Besides your usual Judaica store business (a tallis section, more shofars than you can shake a stick at, menorahs, etc.) I was pleased with the variety of Jewish and Hebrew music, DVDs and books.

I almost bought "Shalom Sesame" - the Jewish version of "Sesame Street," but I quietly resisted.

Manhattan Judaica is a great resource for Judaica products, and will almost certainly have whatever it is you are looking for.

Especially if what you are looking for is a hard to find Israeli cartoon or a SpongeBob kippah. They've got them both.

I liked this place- lots of stuff and very helpful staff. Highly recommended.

This beautiful store has permanently closed as of 9/28/11. But do not fear as J Levine Judaica is near! This Manhattan Judaica store has been in NYC since 1905 and is located at 5 West 30th Street (between 5th ave and Broadway). You can shop online at levinejudaica.

I liked the fact that they had a range of jewelry and keychains and hamsas and things to choose from, with a range of prices as well. I was about to leave happy, when the person handing me my change had to ruin it with an unambiguously racist comment. One of my bills had a "wheresgeorge" stamp on it and he said "do you check where it goes? let's just hope it doesn't end up with an arab terrorist."

I highly regret my flustered rush to leave, because that really deserved an answer. In any case, I'm glad I didn't spend very much there, and I will never return.

Horrible place and horrible customer service. Do not shop here! I got a wedding gift from someone from here and I went to return it. They dont post their aweful return policy on their reciept so I had no idea that the item has to be returned withing 14 days! Are you serious????

The guys here a very welcoming, helpful, and patient as you mull over the wide selection of mezuzot and taleisim. I'm un-Orthodox and queer to boot and have always felt comfortable here-- no hairy eyeball or anything like that. Even though I live in Harlem, this is my Judaica store of choice because of the friendly staff.