Bookstore
Charis Books and More
While across the nation LGBT bookstores have shut their doors, Atlanta’s Charis Books and More (www.charisbooksandmore.com) has managed to not only survive but remain a fan favorite for Atlanta bibliophiles. Celebrating 43 years of selling books this year, this feminist bookstore has thrived as not only a place to find great titles – and maybe even Ms. Right – but a hub of community activity. Charis is a Greek word for grace, gifts and thankfulness. Stop by this independent bookstore for equal doses of all three, and a good book to boot!
First runner up was Book Nook (www.booknookbookstoredecaturga.com) and the second runner up spot went to Atlanta Vintage Books (www.atlantavintagebooks.com).
Adult Novelty Store
Brushstrokes Pleasures
Who says toy stores are just for kids? Brushstrokes Pleasures (www.brushstrokesatlanta.com) is a virtual Toys ‘R Us for adults looking to add a little spice to the bedroom. Located five doors down from Brushstroke’s signature novelty store, Brushstrokes Pleasure stocks it all: Fetish gear, sexual supplements, vacuum pumps, condoms, lubricants and more. This Ansley Square mainstay also features a video rental membership with over 13,000 flaming hot titles.
The first runner up spot went to Tokyo Valentino (www.tokyovalentino.com) and Bulldog Custom Leathers (www.bulldogcustomleathers.com) earned the second runner up spot.
Tattoo Shop
Timeless Tattoo
Tattoo shops are a dime a dozen in Atlanta. But when it comes to a shop offering high-quality, custom design with a professional environment that can’t be beat, Timeless Tattoo (www.timeless-tattoo.com) is tops. Operated by seasoned tattoo artist Cap Szumski, Timeless has spent over two decades offering clean, safe tattooing to the Atlanta community. Whether you’re slapping on a sleeve – or trying on a Tweety bird – Timeless is the go-to spot for awesome ink.
First, second and third runners up spots went to Liberty Tattoo (www.libertytat2.com), Southern Star Tattoo (www.instagram.com/southernstartattoo) and Memorial Tattoo (memorialtattooatl.com)
Apparel Store
Boy Next Door
Atlanta is an eye candy-type of city and there’s one place that rises above others to find traffic-stopping apparel, and that’s modern menswear boutique Boy Next Door (www.boynextdoormenswear.com). Whether you want to be seen or do a little peeking yourself, stylish jeans or a racy swimsuit from BND should be part of the equation.
First runner up goes to Junkman’s Daughter (www.thejunkmansdaughter.com) and in the second place spot is The Big Stitch Embroidery (www.thebigstitchatl.com).
Florist
Foxgloves & Ivy
Whether you’re celebrating a new house, or trying to get out of the dog house, when flowers are the answer, Foxgloves & Ivy (www.foxgloves.biz) is the source. For two decades, this shop has specialized in European garden-style floral design, handling floral arrangements for over 500 weddings. From dazzling tulip and hydrangea arrangements to spectacular wedding designs, Foxgloves & Ivy has the fragrant, colorful solution to all your floral needs.
First runner up goes to Peachtree Petals (www.peachtreepetals.com) and second runner up goes to James Hurley Designs (www.jameshurleydesigns.com).
Gift Shop
Barking Leather
For a gift that makes an unforgettable impression, there’s only one place to go – Barking Leather (www.barkingleather.com). This city favorite offers a diverse selection of leather jocks, harnesses, shirts, pants and more. But it’s more than the average adult leather store. Much of Barking’s merchandise is hand-made onsite by leather artisans and longtime partners Tory pup and Sir Ray. Their commitment to quality has earned them a top spot among our readers!
First runner up was GCB (www.brushstrokesatlanta.com/19/Find-Us) followed by 18.21 Bitters (www.1821bitters.com).
Furniture Store
Kudzu Antiques and Modern
From old school tchotchkes to plush parlor chairs, Kudzu Antiques and Modern (www.kudzuantiques.com) has the city’s best furniture, according to our readers. It’s not hard to believe: Over 35 years, Kudzu has consistently been a fan favorite. With two locations in Decatur and Sandy Springs, Kudzu offers over 40,000 square feet of vintage furniture heaven.
Second place went to Intaglia Home Collection (www.intagliahome.com). Third went to Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams (www.mgbwhome.com) while Kaboodle Home (www.kaboodleatlanta.com) came in fourth.
Vintage, Antique and Consignment
Lost-n-Found Youth Thrift & Consignment
There are surprisingly few truly good vintage boutiques in Atlanta, and Lost-n-Found Youth Thrift & Consignment (lnfy.org/thrift-store) is at the top of the list. Besides raising funding to support LGBT youth, Lost-n-Found offers some truly unique items – from ‘90s fashion to mid-century furniture.
Runners up were Kudzu Antiques (www.kudzuantiques.com), Finders Keepers (www.fkconsign.com) and Decades Antiques and Vintage (www.facebook.com/DecadesATL).
Jewelry Store
Worthmore Jewelers
When your loved one is “worth more” there’s only one place to go for a gift that will make their eyes sparkle – Worthmore Jewelers (www.worthmorejewelers.com). So say you our readers, who have made this boutique a Midtown and Decatur staple. Worthmore is the unique jewelry store that specializes in custom baubles, estate jewelry and everything in between, as well as artwork. Its unique approached has made it a mainstay on Best of Atlanta lists for years.
In second place, Shane Co. (www.shaneco.com) and in third place was Jonathan Buckhead (www.jonathanbuckhead.com).
Liquor Store
Green’s Beverages
A great liquor store needs a knowledgeable staff, great location and most of all, a wide selection! Green’s Beverages (www.greensbeverages.com) checks all of the boxes, earning it your vote as the go-to spot for spirits. Whether you’re heading to a party or on the way home to kick back, Green’s has the perfect pinot noir, craft beer or even non-alcoholic drink. Green’s has two locations in the city and it’s open on Sunday – perfect if you need a pre-Monday sip!
Runners up are Tower Beer, Wine and Spirits (www.towerwinespirits.com) and Ansley Wine Merchants (www.ansleywine.com).
Thrift Store
Lost-n-Found Youth Thrift & Consignment
A blend of high quality items and a mission to help some of the LGBT community’s most vulnerable members earned Lost-n-Found Youth Thrift & Consignment (lnfy.org/thrift-store) your vote as the best thrift store in the city. Run by Lost-n-Found Youth nonprofit, the shop offers everything from new and gently used men’s and women’s clothing to antiques with revenue going toward transitional housing programs for LGBT youth.
First runner up was Goodwill (www.goodwill.org) followed by Intown Thrift (www.intownthrift.com) in third place.