The first thing you see when you enter Johnny Cupcakes is a long white display case, just like you would find in a small town bakery. Cooling racks filled with tempting little treats line the walls. The goodies on display are irresistible, sure, but the best part is that you can indulge as much as you want without piling on the pounds.
Excuse me?
In case you haven’t heard, Johnny doesn’t sell cupcakes. Instead, he sells t-shirts; irreverent, funny, unique t-shirts. And every single one of them incorporates cupcakes into the design! From a tin man with a heart of cake to the cupcake and crossbones shirts that seem to be everywhere these days, the shirts are clever and fun.
The store is brand new, but was already busy on the afternoon I visited. The bakery concept is probably silly and maybe a little crazy, but these shirts aren’t made for people who take themselves too seriously. You are meant to come in and have a little fun. It’s definitely a nice change of pace from many of the offerings on Newbury.
Why do I love Johnny Cupcakes so much? First, I love his story: Johnny started selling his shirts literally out of the trunk of his car. People loved them. Then, one of his designs was ripped off by a clothing mega-chain. People were angry, and this probably made them love his shirts even more. Now, he’s just opened a shop on Boston’s most prestigious street, just a couple of blocks away from the chain that tried to steal his idea. Sweet. Very sweet indeed.
Second, the shirts have cupcakes on them. Need I say more?
TIP: Host your own “Cupperwear Party” and Johnny Cupcakes himself will deliver a large selection of his shirts at a special discount rate.
Johnny Cupcakes
279 Newbury Street
Boston, MA 02116
17D Nantasket Rd.
Hull, MA 02045
781-925-0700