Bitterman’s Eye Candy

Straight up: I am wildly impressed with Bitterman’s Eye Candy. It’s not only a quality antique shop, but also a long-​running candy shop AND a bit of a KC history museum. I promise you, a visit is worth your time.
The husband and I were on a trek for reproductions of historic Kansas City postcards, and a kind woman at another shop recommended Bitterman’s. Sure enough, when we went in, they had an entire spinning rack of exactly what we sought. This saved us just a ridiculous amount of time! Perusing the rest of the antiques section, we found quite a few interesting pieces, and the prices seemed reasonable. I would say that they have a fairly well edited collection, as I didn’t see a ton of junk like some shops are guilty of. However, I didn’t see a ton of high end product as well, so keep that in mind if you’re on the hunt for 17^th century French furniture or something.
Candy is candy. They have a lot of it, and I suspect it’s the lion’s share of their business.
The two aspects I particularly loved dovetail together quite organically, so I’ll discuss them together. Their collection (and understanding) of Kansas City memorabilia is quite impressive, and their customer service is top notch. Running with the idea that we were looking for those postcards, the shop owner (Mr Bitterman himself!) escorted me to the back of the shop to a series of tall glass cases. Inside was a treasure trove of KC’s beverage and brewing history. Artifacts from the numerous breweries and distilleries past were humbly displayed, supplemented by the owner’s understanding and appreciation of their history. Additionally, they had quite a bit that related to both Electric Park and the Priest of Pallas Festival, two of the most fascinating pieces of KC history that I wish more knew of. They loved talking about their collection, and their passion rubbed off on me. I’m currently falling down the rabbit hole of research into these subjects. I’m thankful they started me on the journey.
Please visit this place. I beg of you.

Stopped by here on a rainy Friday afternoon and stocked up on some yummy treats — although you can get most of this retro and bulk candy online if you shop around a little, there’s something to be said for browsing a candy aisle or two to find something sweet for yourself or a friend!

Antiques make me feel like a kid in a … wait a minute! It is antiques in a candy store!!! It is brilliant and fun. I had to check it out since I read an article about it in an antique publication. It lived up to my expectations. It has a great variety, and there is so much going on in the shop. Candy, antiques, and a local artist gallery… it is what that area is all about! If you are there, check out the free pinball machine. You will definitely feel like a kid again!

This place is good at vintage — but I finally had a chance to try the candy!
The sweets are delicious! It was hard to narrow it down to one bag apiece. My husband bought taffy, and I splurged on chocolate covered espresso beans — one taste and I knew it’s going to be a new addiction. I also liked the selection of «vintage» candy that the owner has been gathering since the store opened.
I still love looking at the vintage/​antique section of the store. They’ve added a pinball machine in the back, free play for bored boyfriends and children.
Bitterman’s is becoming a destination for the Cowtown Mallroom shoppers. Remember, this place is open every weekend, not just first Fridays!