Get Your Chocolate Fix: A Guide to Philadelphia's 5 Best Chocolatiers

Philadelphia is a city with a surprisingly rich and delicious chocolate history. From America's oldest confectionery to modern artisans creating edible works of art, the city is a paradise for any chocolate lover. These establishments are more than just candy stores; they are destinations that offer a unique taste of the city's craft and culinary passion. This guide will lead you to five of the best and most beloved chocolatiers who are perfecting their craft in Philadelphia.

1. Shane Confectionery (Old City)

• The Vibe: A true national treasure, Shane Confectionery is the oldest continuously operating confectionery in the United States, with a history on Market Street dating back to 1863. A visit here is like stepping back in time. The shop has been beautifully restored to its Victorian-era glory, complete with antique cash registers, glass candy jars, and costumed staff who are deeply knowledgeable about their craft.
• The Chocolate: The Berley Brothers (who also own The Franklin Fountain) are dedicated to historic candy-making traditions. They ethically source their own cacao and make chocolate on-site. Look for their traditional clear toy candies during the holidays, house-made chocolate bars, and a stunning array of old-fashioned bonbons and buttercreams.
• Location: 110 Market St, Philadelphia, PA 19106

2. Marcie Blaine Artisanal Chocolates (Midtown Village)

• The Vibe: Located inside the chic Verde boutique on 13th Street, Marcie Blaine Artisanal Chocolates offers an upscale, chef-driven candy experience. The chocolates are crafted by renowned restaurateur Marcie Blaine Turney in a small, open studio kitchen in the back of the shop.
• The Chocolate: These are true artisanal creations, inspired by the flavors of Turney's adjacent restaurants. She uses high-quality, locally sourced ingredients from places like Lancaster County to create unique bonbons. Don't miss the "Philadelphia Series," which features truffles beautifully emblazoned with edible images of the Liberty Bell and the LOVE statue.
• Location: 108 S 13th St, Philadelphia, PA 19107

3. John & Kira's Chocolates (Online & Local Retailers)

• The Vibe: While they don't have a dedicated public storefront for walk-ins, this Philadelphia-based company is a national sensation and a local favorite, known for its commitment to sustainability and social responsibility.
• The Chocolate: John & Kira's creates elegant and beautifully handcrafted chocolates using all-natural and sustainable ingredients sourced from small family producers and urban gardens. They are most famous for their adorable and delicious chocolate caramel honey bees and their chocolate-covered figs. You can find their products online or at various local retailers like Di Bruno Bros.

4. Aurora Grace Chocolates (Society Hill)

• The Vibe: At this charming confectionery, pastry chef Aurora Wold crafts some of the most visually stunning chocolates in the city.
• The Chocolate: Aurora Grace specializes in exquisite, hand-painted bonbons that look like tiny, edible works of art. Each one is a burst of creative and modern flavor, from passion fruit and yuzu to classic salted caramel. They also offer fantastic French macarons and other confections.
• Location: 517 S 5th St, Philadelphia, PA 19147

5. Mueller Chocolate Co. (Reading Terminal Market)

• The Vibe: A family-owned institution inside the bustling Reading Terminal Market since 1980, Mueller Chocolate Co. is as famous for its sense of humor as it is for its delicious, handmade chocolates.
• The Chocolate: They are renowned for their quirky and unique creations, including the famously bizarre (and tasty) chocolate-covered onion and their anatomically correct chocolate heart. Beyond the novelties, they excel at classic treats like chocolate-covered pretzels, nonpareils, and turtles.
• Location: Reading Terminal Market, 45 N 12th St, Philadelphia, PA 19107

From the historic, time-capsule experience at Shane Confectionery to the modern, artistic creations at Aurora Grace and the quirky fun of Mueller's, Philadelphia's chocolate scene is a delicious and diverse adventure. These five top-tier chocolatiers showcase the incredible craftsmanship and passion that make the city a true destination for any chocolate aficionado.

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