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I had no idea that it wasn't called a party store everywhere---but then where I've lived outside of the Detroit area there really aren't that many independents. I think the difference is that in Michigan you can pretty much sell beer, liquor, chips whatever you need for a basic low-end party---but as a kid the candy aisles could not be beat. The liquor laws in other states I've been tend to limit stores mostly to liquor and not food so you don't really get party stores per se.

I love it...my kids asked me what party store was and all I could think to say is "it's a party, in a store!" Liquor Store, Deli, and Advil all available in one convenient location...sweet! I went to high school within walking distance of a Buscemi's, wierd pizza, but so addicting.

The party store is the Detroit areas answer to the urban bodega or corner market. It's like a 7-11, Circle K, White Hen etc, but usually privately owned. Since it's not state controlled, nor are there huge emporiums, usually party stores have a nice selection of liquor, wine, and booze - henceforth the parties. The really special ones tend to have a sandwich counter or a mini-pizza operation in back. Another place I dig is Buscemi's which have decent Italian Subs and what is really a mediocre square bready pizza that has this cloying sweet sauce I can't seem to get enough of.

@klisty: If party stores are supposed to have sandwiches in them, I didn't grow up with them in suburban NJ. :[

I live close to Atkins and have been there more times then I can count. Their doughnuts are very good but aren't nearly as fresh as Shelburne Farms in Stow, MA. I've had apple cider doughnuts from all over. Never from Russell Orchards though. Randall's Farm in Ludlow are very good too.

You'll find though that they all use the same basic recipe. The apple ciders generally all taste the same too.

ok, ok -- I haven't tried Atkins! But then again, it's others who've dubbed Russell the best of New England, and I can only vouch for the fact that these were downright delish. Anyone tried both? And does Atkins fry on the spot? That was a pretty special perk.

I'm with Erin on this one. Atkins Farms donuts are the best I've tasted!

Authenticity bores me. I enjoy things that taste good and use their ingredients properly.

Days of college, days of youth, six parts gin to one part vermouth
http://www.collegehumor.com/video:1919716

I like WIGirl

Whataburger taquitos: bacon, egg & cheese (with picante) or a Philly cheesesteak. Depends on whether I am in Texas or NJ/PA at the time of said drunk.

I don't get drunk anymore, but after a few drinks, if there is cold fried chicken left over, it's gone! Dave

Legend goes it was invented by this guy, and named after his title.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ding_Baozhen

The picture is authentic - and very close to the original Sichuan version in fact. There are many regional varieties, but the main ingredients: chicken, peeled peanuts (the one with cashew nuts is actually a different dish), cucumber, spring onion and spices are all present here in this photo.

Chilli is the primary taste factor that makes most of the difference.