Munich, February 6 – After a nearly year-long absence, comic book enthusiasts in Munich can once again rejoice. “Splendid Comics,” the city’s newest and only comic book store, has opened its doors directly at Marienplatz. The store, spearheaded by owner Michael Khambekar, aims to cater to all ages and interests, filling a void left by the closure of the “Comic Company” in January 2025.
A Passion Project in a Prime Location
Michael Khambekar, whose passion for comics began at age 13 with MAD Magazine, has long harbored the dream of opening his own comic store. His vision materialized with “Splendid Comics,” which officially began operations on January 1, 2026. The store’s vibrant signage, featuring a speech bubble and bold lettering, immediately signals its purpose. Inside, visitors are greeted by Alfred E. Neuman, the iconic character from MAD Magazine, depicted in Bavarian attire.
Khambekar emphasizes the diversity of the comic world, stating, “There are comics for every age and every interest. Far more than just superheroes.” His store reflects this philosophy, stocking a broad selection that includes children’s comics, US comics, Franco-Belgian classics like Tintin and Marsupilami, superhero titles from DC and Marvel, and sophisticated graphic novels for adults. A significant portion of the inventory is also dedicated to works by Bavarian and Munich-based comic artists, such as Uli Oesterle and Barbara Yelin.
Beyond the Pages: Merchandise and Community
In addition to comic books, “Splendid Comics” offers a range of merchandise, including keychains, postcards, and mugs. Khambekar notes the importance of these items in a high-traffic location like Marienplatz, explaining, “In this location here at Marienplatz, you sell a lot of that. That will carry us until the comics start selling better.”
The store is still undergoing final touches, a testament to it being Khambekar’s first solo venture. Future plans include creating a dedicated “Munich corner” and hosting various events such as signing sessions, readings, and workshops. An event is already scheduled for February 21 with Christopher Kloiber, the creator of the Bavarian superhero “Tracht Man.”
Addressing Munich’s Comic Shop Void
The opening of “Splendid Comics” is particularly significant given that Munich had been without a dedicated comic book store since the closure of the “Comic Company” in the Glockenbachviertel in January 2025. Khambekar recounts, “That was the point when I decided to go it alone. It can’t be that Munich doesn’t have its own comic shop.” He highlights the contrast with other major cities, noting that Berlin and Hamburg each boast eight or nine comic stores, while Vienna has more than ten.
The Challenge of Munich’s Real Estate Market
A major hurdle for Khambekar in establishing his business was the high cost of commercial real estate in Munich. “For the location of the connecting store, I need a central place, preferably near the U-Bahn or S-Bahn,” he explained. While comic fans are often willing to travel, he acknowledges, “they alone, unfortunately, cannot finance a retail store.”
The solution came through “Kreativ München,” the city’s contact point for the cultural and creative industries. This initiative provides temporary spaces in locations like the Rathaus (City Hall) at a favorable rent, allowing businesses like “Splendid Comics” a year to establish themselves.
A Temporary Home with Future Ambitions
“Splendid Comics” will operate at Marienplatz for one year. Khambekar is already actively searching for a permanent location to move into by January 1, 2027. The current store, located at Marienplatz 8, features a well-stocked selection of comics on the ground floor and a comfortable reading area with beanbags on the first floor.
For now, Munich’s comic fans, and those new to the medium, have a dedicated space to browse, seek advice, and discover new stories. “Splendid Comics” is open Monday to Saturday, from 10:30 AM to 7:00 PM.
