Empire is a store for a shopper with a split personality – on the one hand hedonistic, selling chocolate concoctions few mortals can resist; on the other, a spot for the self-aware/soul-searching shopper to learn about and appreciate henna art and practice it as a serious form of self-expression.
Or, you could skip the philosophical angle and just enjoy the chocolate and jewelry the store sells. However you choose to view Empire, don't miss it. Stores like this are rare.
As clean as grandma's kitchen inside, the chocolate aromas competes with sweet incense; the courteous, knowledgeable staff can talk henna history, technique and just plain coolness.
To get a henna tattoos/body art, you'll need an appointment. Books and henna supplies are available whenever the store is open. Unique small gift items – scarves, jewelry, cards – are also sold at Empire.