So Happy to Know Jack

There are dollar stores.
And then there are DOLLAR STORES.

Jack's on 40th Street (between 5th and Park) is, without a doubt, a DOLLAR STORE. Seriously. This place may be crowded, the employees may be snarly (one security guard yelled at me for taking photos), but for cheap deals on everything from beauty products to household goods to cheesy gifts and even, I kid you not, perishable foods like yogurt and frozen pizza, Jack's is the place to go.

I'm not going to lie. There are certain items you should never buy here. The cleaning supplies are worthless, some of the foods are frightening, and 99 cent tool kits will no doubt fail you.

If, however, you're in search of a superhero nightlight, an I LOVE NY shot glass, or cheap party supplies, then you're in luck. Arm yourself with $25.74 and an open mind, and make your way through my list of bargain buys, from A to Z:

Start off with an Apple-shaped oven mitt, Blue dish towels, pillar Candles, a set of Dominoes, an Extension cord, and some Folders. Stock up on Gift bags and clothes Hangers, grab an Ice cream scoop and a lemon Juicer, and then put some KitKats in your bag for the walk home. You can always use a Lint brush and a Mesh strainer, and how about Napkins, some crazy Orange cups, and plastic Plates for your next party? Move on to the Q-tips, enormous boxes of Raisins, the aforementioned Shot glass, a Tape measure, and--if you're brave--a couple of pairs of Underwear. Finally, pick up a bottle of Vegetable oil, Wrapping paper, plastic X-ray vision goggles, some not-quite-expired Yogurt, and a Let's Go to the Zoo coloring book for your nephew (or roommate).

Bottom Line: 99 cents for quirky gifts and low-quality gadgets

Jack's Dollar Store
16 East 40th Street
212.696.5767