Cafe Corner is the set that pulled me out of my LEGO Dark Age. It kindled a joy for building by showing how versatile LEGO bricks can be, recontextualizing parts in fun new ways in service of an immersive display to admire and play with. Since then, the annual modular releases continue to set the bar for innovative techniques and whimsical detail. 2026 marks 20 years of modulars, and as with any long-running tradition, it can be a challenge to satisfy old and new fans and keep things fresh. This year’s modular is the Shopping Street, two angular buildings separated by an alley. Hoang Dang said, “If you can imagine Assembly Square and Boutique Hotel having a child, this is it.” Those sets are both beloved modulars. How does their love child measure up? Let’s find out!

LEGO Icons 11371 Shopping Street| 3,456 Pieces | Available January 4, 2026 | US $249.99 | CAN $349.99 | UK £229.99

Grab a chair and put on some music, we’re going shopping!