Babette Schwartz

I always get a laugh at this store. Everything from boxing nuns to sassy greeting cards. Perfect for picking up a gift for the person who has everything. I would have rated this higher, but I find that the staff can be a little aloof. Not that they are rude, just that they often chat amongst themselves, and don't greet the customers right away. They are friendly once you go to make a purchase though. Anyway, overall, a fun shop with lost of unique stuff. Parking can be tough in Hillcrest though. more

Every city's got to have one of these kind of stores -- one of those over the top, kitschy, funny cards and gag gift/ trinket stores... preferably in the gay area of town. Babette Schwartz's is exactly that. Here you will find a wide range of greeting cards, most of them hilarious, catty, and totally unique. Definitely not the Hallmark variety (thankfully) and very amusing. You won't see a lot of them anywhere else! You can also find those unusual kind of gifts, you know the kind you give as a quasi joke or gag gift, or that small little item that you can give to a friend to cheer him/ her up. There are funny t-shirts in the back, and Ken and Barbie dolls and anything else that might tickle your (or that lucky someone's) fancy. Babette Schwartz is located in the heart of Hillcrest. Sometimes parking is an issue, so prepare to drive around (if you don't live in the 'hood) and bring lots of quarters. more

This store can be described as a cross between an adult version of FAO Schwartz and Spencer gifts. They have everything from fingerpuppet boxing nuns, to Jesus bamboo curtains, "Dirty Girl" soap, and a full line of pin-up Bettie Page memorabilia. Babette specializes in religious pop art, kitsch, retro products, mexicana and adult humor items. more

Located in the heart of Hillcrest, this is definitely one fun shop. I'd heard about this store for years but never took the time to go. I finally visited about 4 months ago and I'm sorry I hadn't visited sooner. Great selection of cards and wrapping by the artist Shag. Nice selection of tiki mugs by Tiki Farm. Definitely a store to visit if you're in the area. more