Inside DFW’s Hidden Gem for JDM Collectors

You don’t notice it at first. You might be walking through Stonebriar Centre toward Dillard’s — passing LEGO, The North Face, Sephora, and Bath & Body Works — when a sleek black-and-gold shop catches your eye. Inside, rows of die-cast cars gleam under soft lighting, each one looking like it belongs in a gallery more than a toy store. That’s Import Crate — a hidden gem for anyone who loves JDM cars, clean design, and the art of collecting.

Most people find it by accident. They stop, look closer, and realize this isn’t your typical mall shop. Every shelf feels curated. Every brand — Pop Race, Kaido House, MiniGT, Inno64, Para64, CM — has its place. The shop only carries what matters, with no filler or generic models. Each piece tells a story about Japanese design, attention to detail, and the connection between real car culture and miniature craftsmanship.

What makes Import Crate special isn’t just what’s on the shelf — it’s the energy. The conversations about new releases, the subtle nods between collectors who spot something rare, the people taking photos to send to friends who’ll rush over later. It feels like part boutique, part car meet, part museum. And that’s exactly the point.

Import Crate was built around the culture, not the transaction. The air fresheners, apparel, posters, and die-cast cars all orbit the same idea — that being an enthusiast isn’t just about owning cars, it’s about surrounding yourself with what they represent. It’s about style, identity, and belonging.

New arrivals drop often, and collectors know timing matters. The shelves turn quickly, and once a model’s gone, it’s gone. Some even preorder upcoming releases online at importcrate.com/collections/die-casts just to make sure they don’t miss out. But the real draw is visiting in person — seeing the lineup, talking with other collectors, and feeling that same quiet excitement when you find something rare.

Import Crate sits on Level 1 at Stonebriar Centre, toward Dillard’s, right in front of LEGO and The North Face. Whether you’re coming from Dallas, Plano, or Carrollton, it’s worth the stop. If you’re into JDM, design, or the kind of collectibles that speak louder than logos, you’ll understand why this little shop has become a name people in the know keep mentioning.