Best of 2001: Best Magic Shop

Brad Burt's Magic Shop
4204 Convoy Street, Kearny Mesa
858-571-4749

This is a one-stop source for bendable keys, flying coins, dove pans, vanishing bottles, magic ropes, die cyphers, and other tools of the conjurer's trade. Owner Brad Burt, 49, grew up in Orange County and was a member of the Magic Castle in Hollywood by the time he was 21. He ran magic shops and schools in LA and Orange Counties before becoming manager of Chuck Martinez Magician's World on 30th Street in North Park. After it closed, he opened up his own place around 1988. A website (www.magicshop.com) followed more recently, and today Burt caters to magicians ranging from beginners to professionals. The store sells no costumes, but it normally stocks a variety of gags and a couple thousand tricks. Particularly plentiful are the close-up and parlor magic and supplies. Burt carries videos and books and pamphlets. Hours are 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Monday through Friday, 10:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Saturday, and noon to 4:00 p.m. on Sunday.