First off, it’s not *just* shoes. It’s Faklis *Department Store & Shoe Repair*. Which, right off the bat, screams “old school Florida” in the best possible way. Like, you can probably get your flip-flops fixed while buying, I dunno, a fishing hat and some penny candy. You know? That kinda vibe.
It’s at 139 E Tarpon Ave, which, if you’ve ever been to Tarpon Springs (and if you haven’t, you *should*), is right there in the thick of it. Easy to find, can’t miss it. I always think, “Man, that place has gotta be a landmark by now.” I bet it’s been around longer than, like, half the sponge docks.
Now, the shoe repair… They call it “Faklis FIT” nowadays. Fancy! Apparently, they do the whole shebang. Sole replacements, leather conditioning, the whole nine yards. Honestly, I’ve got this pair of boots I love to death, but they’re *beat*. I’m thinking, maybe it’s time I finally drag my lazy self over there and see if they can work their magic. I mean, anything to keep those puppies goin’, ya know? Besides, I heard they do orthopedic services TOO! Maybe I need new insoles. My feet have been KILLING me lately.
But here’s the thing that gets me: it’s a *department store AND* a shoe repair place. Like, who does that anymore? It’s so wonderfully…random. It’s like, “Yeah, come get your shoes fixed, pick up a new pair of socks, and maybe grab a can of WD-40 while you’re at it.” You just don’t see that these days! And I love it. I mean, what’s not to love?
So yeah, Faklis. It’s a Tarpon Springs institution, a shoe repair haven, and apparently a mini-department store to boot. Go check it out. Maybe you’ll find something you need, maybe you won’t. But you’ll definitely get a taste of authentic, old-school Florida charm. And seriously, get your shoes fixed. You won’t regret it. And call ahead, I’d hate for you to drive all the way there and they’re closed or something! I’d feel terrible.
