The Twisted Spine Makes Horror a Year-Round Bookstore Habit

The Twisted Spine, located at 306 Grand Street in Williamsburg, is Brooklyn’s first bookstore and café dedicated entirely to horror and dark literature. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the genre or just curious about what horror has to offer, this independent shop provides a year-round space to explore chilling classics, contemporary releases, and even age-appropriate children’s horror—all paired with a café and regular events.

Founded by Lauren Komer and Jason Mellow, The Twisted Spine grew from an online store and pop-up events before opening its permanent location in September 2025. The shop’s focus on horror isn’t just a seasonal gimmick; it’s a curated experience that invites both newcomers and genre devotees to discover new favorites, connect with other readers, and enjoy a café atmosphere that extends into late-night hours.

What to Expect When You Visit

The Twisted Spine’s inventory, as reported by Time Out at opening, was planned to include around 5,000 titles spanning horror’s many subgenres. While the exact number of books on hand may change, visitors can expect a mix of classic authors and contemporary voices, with staff curation helping to highlight both well-known and lesser-explored works. The shop also features a dedicated children’s horror section, making it accessible for families interested in age-appropriate spooky stories.

The café serves coffee and pastries during the day, with evening hours offering drinks that may include alcohol. Seating, menu options, and the availability of restrooms or step-free entry can vary, so it’s best to check with the store directly if you have specific needs or accessibility questions.

Navigating the Shelves: For Newcomers and Aficionados

If you’re new to horror, The Twisted Spine’s staff curation is a valuable resource. Staff can help guide you toward books that match your interests or comfort level, whether you’re looking for psychological suspense, supernatural tales, or gothic classics. For seasoned horror readers, the store’s focus on the genre means you’re likely to find deep cuts and new releases that might not be stocked at general-interest bookstores.

The children’s section is a notable feature, offering a selection of horror-themed books suitable for younger readers. This can be a way for families to introduce children to the genre in a safe and supportive environment.

Events and Book Clubs: More Than Just Browsing

The Twisted Spine hosts a variety of events, including book clubs and readings. Some events may require tickets or advance RSVP, and age restrictions could apply, especially for evening programs where alcohol is served. Event listings are subject to change, so it’s important to verify details such as admission policies, age requirements, and accessibility before attending.

Participating in events can be a way to deepen your engagement with horror literature, meet authors, or connect with other readers. Ordinary browsing during store hours is always an option, but events offer a more interactive experience.

Café Culture: Daytime and Late-Night Options

The café at The Twisted Spine is open throughout the day and into the evening, with hours extending as late as 11pm on Fridays and Saturdays. During the day, you can expect coffee and pastries, making it a comfortable spot for solo reading or casual meetups. In the evening, the café may serve alcoholic drinks, and the atmosphere can shift to accommodate events or a more social crowd.

As with any independent café, offerings and seating can change. If you have dietary restrictions or need specific accommodations, it’s a good idea to contact the store in advance.

Planning Your Visit: Hours and Practical Details

The Twisted Spine’s current hours, as listed on its official site, are Monday through Thursday from 9am to 8pm, Friday from 9am to 11pm, Saturday from 10am to 11pm, and Sunday from 10am to 8pm. These hours may change, especially around holidays or for special events.

Before visiting, consider checking the store’s website or social media for the latest information on hours, event schedules, and café offerings. If you have questions about step-free entry, aisle width, restroom access, or sensory conditions, contacting the store directly is recommended.

Accessibility and Comfort

Accessibility features such as step-free entry, aisle width, and restroom availability are not detailed in public reports. If these factors are important for your visit, reach out to The Twisted Spine ahead of time. Sensory conditions—such as lighting, noise levels during events, and seating arrangements—can also vary, particularly during busy periods or special programs.

Before you go

The Twisted Spine offers a specialized, year-round destination for horror fans and curious readers alike, with a curated selection, café, and regular events. Because inventory, event details, and amenities can change, it’s wise to confirm practical information—such as admission, accessibility, and café offerings—before your visit.