The Sweetest Road Trip in New Jersey Takes You to 7 Old School Chocolate Shops
Explore a road trip through New Jersey's best old-fashioned chocolate shops, each offering unique and delicious treats.
Money can't buy happiness but it can buy chocolate, and isn't that almost the same thing? While that may not be true for everyone, chocolate has always brought me joy. I've been going to the same shops for years — they've been around for decades and I know I can count on quality candy and friendly service. While I'm also a fan of more modern shops, I enjoy these old-school favorites, all across the state. Follow along on this sweet road trip to visit some of the best shops for some of the best chocolates in NJ.
From north to south, here's your route. Are these ALL of my favorite chocolate shops in New Jersey? Not nearly, but they're all planned out in an easy-to-drive route that can be done in a day, but would be better traversed in two.
1. Barbera's Chocolate and Ice Cream Shoppe, Vineland
This little shop claims to have the best selection of handmade chocolates in South Jersey...you'll have to visit and see for yourself. We love their whimsical holiday creations and classic staples. You'll find great gifts for even the bravest souls...we've heard they stock chocolate-covered chili peppers! Visit the Barbera's Chocolate and Ice Cream Shoppe Facebook page to learn more about where to get some of the best chocolate in New Jersey. Address: 782 S Brewster Rd, Vineland, NJ, 08361
2. Damask's Candies, Swedesboro
Damask's Candies was established all the way back in 1906—does it get more old school than that? Fresh cream, pure butter, and only the highest quality ingredients go into the handmade chocolate treats that have made Damask's Candies a local New Jersey chocolates legend. Head to the Damask Candies to see its chocolate menu. Address: 2255 US Route 322, Swedesboro, NJ, 08085
3. Aunt Charlotte's Candies, Merchantville
Aunt Charlotte's has been making delicious candies for four generations. The business got its start when Charles Brooks Oakford, Sr. began selling chocolates out of his Ford Model T Truck. Nearly 100 years later, Aunt Charlotte's is housed in a charming building with a spectacular supply. They're known for friendly service, creamy caramels, and great gifts. What could be better? Visit the Aunt Charlotte's Candies to learn more about one of the most charming candy stores in New Jersey. Address: 5 W. Maple Ave, Merchantville, NJ, 08109
4. Thomas Sweet Chocolate, Princeton
Not to be confused with the equally incredible Thomas Sweet Ice Cream Shop, Thomas Sweet Chocolate has been a local favorite for over 30 years. Their chocolates are made in fresh, small batches and on-location every day. Try their chocolate-covered espresso beans for a treat with a caffeine kick! Head to the Thomas Sweet website for more on its chocolate treats. Address: 29 Palmer Square W, Princeton, NJ, 08542
Seeing as how Thomas Sweet Chocolate is the halfway point on this road trip, we suggest that you stay the night. Check out the beautiful Inn at Glencairn for a peaceful night's sleep.
5. Nutty Over Sweets, Sparta
If you are looking for candy stores in New Jersey with a large selection, then you need to stop by Nutty Over Sweets where you'll find just about every old-fashioned candy you can think of as well as chocolates. We're also nutty for the chocolate-covered strawberries at this Sussex County staple. Their selection is MASSIVE, and, though the shop is more modern, we love the old-time feel! Stay up to date for some of the best chocolate NJ and candy by following the Nutty Over Sweets Facebook page. Address: 6 White Deer Plaza, Sparta, NJ, 07871
6. Bromilow's Chocolates, Woodland Park
"The Sweetest Spot On The Mountain" since 1958, they've spent decades perfecting their recipes. We adore their peppermint bark and advent calendars, but this spot is worth visiting all year. You'll find a secondary location in Essex Mall. Visit the Bromilow's Chocolates website to learn more. Address: 350 Rifle Camp Rd, Woodland Park, NJ, 07424
7. Critchley's Candies, River Edge
For "candy shops near me" in River Edge, NJ, Critchley's Candies has been a favorite since 1957 and values tradition and excellence. Their chocolate-covered pretzels are a favorite, but so are their bunnies! Here's a little anecdote on their website that we loved: "One morning about five years ago a customer bought her son an Easter bunny. 'He insists on a Critchley's bunny every year,' the woman said. 'How lovely,' said the owner's wife. 'How old is your son?' 'He's 43 years old.'" Isn't that great? Visit the Critchley's Candies website to see more sweet offerings. Address: 812 Kinderkamack Rd, River Edge, NJ, 07661
Are you ready to take the sweetest of all New Jersey road trips? New Jersey has many amazing chocolate shops, it was hard not to make this a 4.5-hour road trip! Other old-school favorites for the best chocolate in NJ worth checking out include Genevieve’s Home Made Chocolates in Garfield (since 1944), Kilwins in Ridgewood (since 1947), the seasonal Douglass Fudge locations in Wildwood and Stone Harbor (since 1925), and Conrad's Confectionery in Westwood (since 1928), and Krause's Homemade Candies in Paterson and Fairview (since 1929).
What are your favorite old-fashioned chocolate shops in New Jersey? Is yours not on this list? If not, you can nominate it! For another delectable journey, check out this Garden State Donut Trail.