Kawaii Klaws, a vibrant arcade-style claw machine experience, is capturing hearts across Southern California — and now, it’s made a home in Alhambra thanks to local couple Adam and Tracy Varnes. With locations sprouting up beyond Southern California, including in states like Texas, Kawaii Klaws is quickly becoming a go-to destination for families, teens, and anyone chasing the thrill of snagging a plushie.
For Adam and Tracy, the decision to open a location in Alhambra was personal. High school sweethearts who both grew up in the area, their roots run deep. “We both grew up in Alhambra. I played Little League in Alhambra Park, I went to Fremont and my wife went to Marguerita, so we’ve been part of the community for a very long time,” Adam shared.
As parents to three young kids who adore Kawaii Klaws, the Varneses saw a unique opportunity to bring a fun, family-focused business to their hometown.
“We’re just excited to bring this nostalgic arcade experience to the city and be a place where families can spend time on Main Street, maybe get dinner and come play some games,” said Adam.
More than just an arcade, Kawaii Klaws is envisioned as a community hub on Main Street. With the classic coin-operated machines stacked with adorable plush toys, the space is designed to entertain both the young and the young at heart.
“There’s a lot of excitement that comes with each attempt to grab a prize and there’s strategy too,” Adam explained. “We wanted to make a family-friendly hangout spot where we can appeal to both the high school kids that are around the corner and the families that bring in their grandparents.”
The family fell in love with the experience after visiting the West Covina location. “We’d fill up a bag with little plushies,” Adam recalled.
Both Varneses have kept their day jobs (Tracy works in the legal field and Adam is an educator) but despite their packed schedules, the Varnes duo is committed to being hands-on. Adam’s brother helps manage the store and their kids often help out on weekends, working the register or restocking the machines. “There are challenging days, but for the most part we have a lot of fun,” said Adam.
Their favorite part of running the business? The people. “Meeting the customers is great,” Tracy said. “Kawaii Klaws isn’t one of those businesses that gives you financial freedom — we both still have our day jobs — but we’ve gotten to know so many people in the community and chat with them.”
You’ll likely find Adam and Tracy in the shop on any given day, engaging with guests, offering tips, and making sure everyone leaves with a smile and maybe a plushie or two. “We really pride ourselves on being faces of the community,” Adam said. “This is a business that provides a fun experience, but also one where the owners are committed to bettering the city in whatever way we can.”
Whether you’re planning a weekend outing or a birthday celebration, Kawaii Klaws offers a whimsical, family-first environment that’s hard to resist. Next time you’re on Main Street, drop by to test your luck at the claw machine.
