PHILADELPHIA - Philadelphia embraces its grit as much as its rich history, and the city's oldest continuously operating candy shop has found the perfect, deliciously quirky way to celebrate that balance. This fall, the historic confectioners on Market Street are rolling out a seasonal tribute to the ultimate urban commuter: The SEPTA Rat.
A Gourmet Take on a City Staple
While the name might elicit a chuckle (or a shudder) from anyone who frequents the Broad Street Line or the Market-Frankford El, the execution is purely gourmet. Shane Confectionery is crafting these limited-edition novelties using their signature house-made, bean-to-bar chocolate.
Tasting Notes & Details:
- The Shell: Rich, perfectly tempered house-made chocolate shaped into a remarkably detailed, scurrying rodent.
- The Filling: A smooth, decadent peanut praline that provides a sweet and nutty crunch, elevating the chocolate profile.
- The Vibe: A highly giftable, uniquely Philadelphian inside joke.
A Nod to Victorian Transit
While today's subway riders are well-acquainted with the underground wildlife, the historical context adds a charming layer to this sweet release. In the early 1900s, when Shane Confectionery was cementing its legacy, Philadelphia didn't yet have its sprawling underground transit lines. However, Victorians likely watched the ancestors of today's SEPTA rats scurrying alongside the bustling above-ground railways and trolleys that dominated the cityscape.
It's a clever nod to the evolution of Philadelphia transit, wrapped in a nostalgic, historically inspired chocolate package.
Where to Snag Yours
These peanut-praline-filled rodents are strictly a fall seasonal item. They make the ultimate tongue-in-cheek gift for that one friend who never misses a train—or always complains about the subway.
The chocolate Septa Rats are currently scurrying around the shop and are available for purchase at the Market Street storefront, or you can order them online if you prefer to skip the commute altogether.
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