QUICK TAKE: Uncle Fun meets Woolworth's

Any native Atlantan knows Richard's Variety Store in Buckhead... A whacky amalgam of bookstore, toy store, neighborhood hardware store, home goods retailer and party supplies, and, and...

Being a somewhat new peachy boy - I hadn't yet discovered it. Well...NOW - Richard's Variety Store is in Midtown - right next to Trader Joe's.

It reminds me of Chicago fun-festival Uncle Fun (those of you who know KNOW! Those who don't - it's almost worth a trip if you add in Paper Boy and Superdawg). But - not just fun vintage toys
or retro candy
[remember edible spaceships?!?!]

It's got a GREAT greeting card selection - including some pretty designs and funny ones I've never seen. Those of you who know me know that that's quite a statement given my stationary issue [I'm obsessed]. The cheery yellow floor sweeps across the gigantic space from party supplies and Asian home goods to a pretty comprehensive and interesting kitchen department, a well-curated book selection displayed on antiques that are also for sale and - yes - the illusive sundries and notions department. SUNDRIES! NOTIONS!!! A broad selection of toys chosen to amuse grown-ups and a great selection for kids as well combined with a smattering of fun and retro sweets rounds out the collection.

What a fun way to spend part of a dreary afternoon.

Richard's Variety Store is in the Midtown Promenade next to Trader Joe's on Monroe just south of 10th street.