Our day started out going to the Los Angeles Comic Book and SciFi Convention at the Shrine Auditorium near downtown. It was a “spur of the moment” decision to go, especially for me. This was one few times where we went to a non-anime convention. LACBSFC is a monthly con that’s just a large exhibit hall for local sellers. On occasion, they have special guests that sign autographs and/or hold panels.

The main reason we went is to meet Stan Lee, the creator of the Marvel Universe. The guys got his autograph while I just took pictures. It was really something see Stan Lee in person, nothing like on TV. He just had a heavy presence in the room when he walked in and began signing autographs. Other than that, we just walked around looking for goods to buy. It was a quick trip.

After the LASBSFC, we looked for the Royal T Maid Cafe in Culver City, about 10 miles west of LA along to 10 Freeway. It took no time to find. Parking was around back of the cafe. When we entered the cafe, we were warmly welcomed by a nice maid (above). She offered us treats as she explained about the Cafe. We were given handouts for further explanation. We were offered complimentary coffee drinks as we wandered around looking at the art exhibits. Yes, Royal T is a combination cafe, art gallery and gift shop. They had their grand opening back on April 12th and are not fully opened. The told us that the cafe is nearing completion and total service in a couple weeks (around mid-May). The artwork presented are my local artist and heavily influenced by the “kawaii” Japanese culture.

The modern industrial look of the cafe was intimidating when you first walk in, but the pretty maid staff quickly cast that aside and made us feel very welcome and comfortable. This is something that were are not accustomed to when entering any establishment...ever. We were like fish out of water at first. But after relaxing a bit and unwinding with a cup of expresso and some lattes...we actually enjoyed ourselves at the cafe as we walked around. Being the first maid cafe in SoCal, it was a unique experience to actually go to one. We talked and joked about going to maid cafe in Japan when ever we go. Just going to Royal T gave us otaku a taste of a real maid cafe and the real otaku lifestyle. For us, the drive from the Riverside area is well worth the gas and traffic pain to go to Rayal T. I’m planning to have birthday party there....soon.

And lastly, on the way home, since Royal T didn’t have a menu yet, we stopped by the Curry House in La Puente to eat...curry. What else?