Los Angeles Comic Con has officially wrapped, and we’re still thinking about it. Team Redbeanime was on the scene this year, and we enjoyed it so much that we decided to put together a list of our favorite things from the convention. From the vendors to the cosplays, here’s what stood out.
Favorite Vendor: Neko Stop
This was a tough one. There were a lot of great vendors on site, including the very popular Glitch booth. But Neko Stop came out on top—not just because of the sheer variety of Chiikawa merch they offered (God bless you, Neko Stop), but because of how friendly they were. Unfortunately, we didn’t think to ask this incredibly sweet salesperson for a name, but ultimately, it was the customer service experience that won us over. Neko Stop wasn’t just our favorite vendor—it was our number one favorite experience at the convention overall. Being friendly and genuine really goes a long way.
Favorite Artist: Essukaa
Essukaa participated as an artist via proxy, offering a lineup of prints and fun keychains—including ones that work with NFC. We purchased an Ado keychain that now pulls up the absolute banger “Useewa” any time it’s near our phone. It’s the kind of clever, interactive merch that makes you smile every time you use it.
Favorite Cosplayer: The Yellow Pikmin
There were so, so many epic cosplays on display at Los Angeles Comic Con. From homemade to store-bought, everyone’s fandom was on full display. But our favorite cosplay was arguably this yellow Pikmin because of its creativity. And let’s be honest—there is a severe lack of Pikmin cosplayers out there. More Pikmin cosplay in 2027, please.
Favorite Small Press: Hot Tropiks Books
Hot Tropiks Books offers graphic novels and kid lit from the Philippines. Their table had a wide variety of books and fun merch, including the very funny “Bakla Book Club” hat that we wish we bought. It’s always a pleasure to discover a small press doing something unique, and Hot Tropiks delivered.
Favorite Booth Gimmick: Creative Tip Jars
One thing we loved seeing on the show floor was how creatively vendors sought tips—turning it into a game. One booth set up a “Who Is the Bester Jester” vote with four jars labeled Shadow Milk Cookie, Pomni, The Prototype, and Fizzarolli. Team Redbeanime voted for Shadow Milk Cookie, because of course we did! It’s a clever, fun way to engage attendees and support vendors at the same time, and we hope to see more of it next year.
Another booth asked the age-old question: should Usagi be jailed or bailed? Unfortunately, by the time we reached the booth, we didn’t have any more cash… so it’s likely the GOAT himself was jailed. But we have every confidence he’ll break out, just like he did in the manga!
See You Next Year!
Despite having its struggles—the cost of parking, alleged miscommunication for event locations, etc.—Los Angeles Comic Con is arguably our new favorite event, topping Anime Expo and Long Beach Comic Con. If you didn’t have a chance to go this year, be sure to check it out next year. From a giant Pomni to The Freak Circus merch, Los Angeles Comic Con truly had something for everyone. We’ll see you there in 2027.
