Since two Watson brothers and their wives began making chocolates in a Kenmore soda fountain in 1946, Watson’s Chocolates has grown into a family-owned Western New York confectioner best known for its hand-crafted sponge candy. Four generations of Watsons oversee the company, whose candy makers still use the original family recipes and small-batch methods at its Tonawanda manufacturing facility. Watson’s now supplies eight regional retail shops and ships its Buffalo tradition across the country.
Andy’s CandiesFounded in Rochester in 1917, Andy’s Candies handcrafts small-batch chocolates and confections, including its long-popular sponge candy, at its Hudson Avenue factory and storefront. Now in its fourth generation of family ownership, the company still uses many of the same recipes and serves the Rochester community through retail, wholesale, seasonal candy, and custom corporate gifts.ROCHESTER, NY
Fowler's ChocolatesSince 1901, Fowler’s Chocolates has made Buffalo’s original Sponge Candy along with other fine chocolate confections from its Western New York operation. Still family-owned and operated, the company now sells through five regional retail locations and its online store, while its 2018 SQF certification documents the food-safety controls behind its candy-making process.BUFFALO, NY
Marie’s CandiesBorn from homemade gifts made by Winfred and Marie King in their Ohio country kitchen, Marie’s Candies has been making small-batch chocolates since opening in 1956. Now third-generation owned by siblings Shannon and Rebecca, the West Liberty confectioner carries that family tradition from a restored train depot that serves as its retail space. Its best-known offerings include customizable chocolate assortments and distinctive treats such as Tur’Kins, a turtle-style candy.WEST LIBERTY, OH
JoMart ChocolatesSince 1946, the Rogak family has made hand-crafted chocolates and confections at JoMart Chocolates, Brooklyn’s oldest chocolate factory. Now a third-generation candy shop, JoMart still produces fresh sweets in the family’s original tradition, with Michael Rogak using his father’s stove and grandfather’s copper kettles. The family’s small-batch, hand-cut and hand-dipped approach carries through to its classic marshmallows and custom bonbon gift boxes.BROOKLYN, NY