If the mere thought of braving large crowds at the mall or big-box stores this holiday season makes you tired, .
Never fear, Patch is here to help, with a list of must-visit small businesses in Milpitas that are ready and waiting to help you find the perfect gift for anyone on your list.
At any of the following Milpitas small businesses, you’ll find thoughtful, handmade gifts and one-of-a-kind treasures inside. You can also opt to give gift certificates for that favorite hole-in-the-wall restaurant you've been dying to tell your friends and family about, a massage or facial at a local day spa, or an invigorating activity such as martial arts lessons.
Here’s just a sampling of what’s available at some small businesses in Milpitas. For a more complete list of local businesses, visit the Milpitas Patch Directory by clicking on "Places" in the horizontal menu bar at the top of the page.
Don't forget to visit our 2011 Holiday Guide for more articles on gift ideas, shopping tips, events, opinions and more. New articles are being added to the guide every day.
Happy Holidays from your friends at Milpitas Patch!
Jingdezhen Art Porcelain Fair
Located in the Sunnyhills Shopping Center, at the southeast corner of N. Milpitas Boulevard and Dixon Landing Road.
The city of Jingdezhen is the Chinese center of porcelain making. If you’re looking for a unique and beautiful gift in Milpitas, Jingdezhen Art Porcelain Fair has stunning treasures. Porcelain objects include ginger jars, vases, planters and even furniture. Then, there’s the jade—from small jewelry to large carvings. The shop also offers tea sets, fountains, screens, and paintings. For the truly discerning, one corner of the shop is dedicated to Chinese antiques. You can find gifts in every price range, from less than $20 to thousands of dollars. This unassuming shop in the Sunnyhills Shopping Center doesn’t even have a proper sign, but is announced by a banner. But don’t let the exterior fool you—this place is a find that you’ll be whispering about to your friends.
Located in the , at 1535 Landess Ave. Call 408-956-1706.
If you’re looking to grab a gift basket, The Coffee Adventure Company has put together gift baskets especially for Christmas. They contain organically grown coffee from The Philippines, coffee cups and more, for the discriminating swiller of java. This is second Christmas in business, and the first time he’s offered gift baskets. The small shop is located in the Seasons MarketPlace at Landess shopping center. Time your visit so that you can enjoy a relaxing break with a cup of coffee and pastry - at Coffee Adventure, they're definitely delicious!
Located in the Beresford Square Shopping Center, 73 N. Milpitas Blvd. Call 408-942-6903.
If you have a superhero fan on your shopping list, Black Cat Comics is packed with gifts sure to elicit squeals of delight. The shop stocks comic books, graphic novels (novel-length comic books), apparel, lunchboxes, games, toys and more. From Batman and the Green Lantern, to Batgirl and Wonder Woman, Black Cat covers all the bases. Don’t tell Superman, but owners Mark Causey and Francie Soito have even slipped some Hello Kitty merchandise onto the shelves, for the little girl on your Christmas list. Special orders are welcome. They also offer gift certificates and shipping.
Located in the Milpitas Square shopping center, 522 Barber Lane. Call 408-526-9988.
After you’ve found the perfect porcelain planter or vase at Jingdezhen Art Porcelain Fair, visit A S Florists for a beautiful plant, lucky bamboo or floral arrangement to go in it. Amy Sheu has been pleasing patrons with her stunning style since 1996. If you are truly shopping-adverse or just looking to save time, you may even order online from this beloved local shop.
Located at 59 Dempsey Road. Call 408-873-0148.
Tennis is clearly a popular sport in Milpitas, with courts in public parks always busy. To supply the needs of the budding Rafael Nadal on your holiday list, Racket Supply is stocked with tennis rackets, balls and apparel. The store also stocks supplies for other racket sports, from badminton to table tennis. This shop is tucked into a small strip mall right off Calaveras Boulevard, for quick access. Bargain hunters will appreciate the selection and sales at this local store.
