The red line goes more places than Harvard and Davis Squares. If you're a vintage enthusiast, get off your butt and come to Dorchester.

We were trying to figure out some stylish, clever way to say that, but sometimes blunter is better. Dorchester is home to wonderful ethnic variety, some great old bars, several tasty restaurants, and Streamline Antiques.

Just looking at the sign on Lynda Watson's shop across from the old Baker Chocolate Factory, we could tell we were about to enter a temple to art deco. The tiny two-room store crams treasures from the first half of the twentieth century into every available square inch. Most of the goods are small; there is no furniture or vintage Frigadaires here, but a near boundless supply of compacts, jewelry, plates, cups, and more. One of the specialties of the house is bar ware, and we were entranced by the gorgeous chrome cocktail shakers and an set of glass garnish dishes, etched with things like "Olives" and "Cherries".

The website (www.StreamlineAntiques.com) — which only shows a tiny fraction of the goodies available — says Streamline Antiques 'specializes in 20th century objects from Art Deco and beyond'. The beyond includes a collection of movie and show memorabilia, and some charming souvenirs from a variety of World's Fairs.

The back room is taken up with clothing, largely for women, but there's an limited amount of men's attire as well. Despite its small size, the eclectic Men's department runs the range from bowling shirts to beaver felt top hats. Ladies can dress themselves smartly from top to bottom in a wide assortment of dresses, hats, lingerie, and essential accessories. All of the prices are reasonable and there are quite a few bargains to be had here if you're willing to put the time in.

Streamline is only open on Wednesdays through Sundays from noon to 5 p.m., but owner Lynda Watson is happy to open up at other times by appointment.