Top 18 Candy Stores In San Francisco

3 min read 31-12-2024

San Francisco, a city known for its vibrant culture and diverse culinary scene, also boasts a surprisingly sweet side. Beyond the sourdough bread and clam chowder, lies a world of delectable candy, waiting to be discovered. For those with a serious sugar craving, or simply looking for a delightful treat, this guide highlights 18 of the best candy stores the city has to offer. From classic confectioneries to modern artisanal shops, there's something for every sweet tooth.

Classic Confectioneries: A Blast from the Past

These stores offer a nostalgic experience, filled with familiar favorites and charming atmospheres:

Ghirardelli Soda Fountain & Chocolate Shop: A San Francisco institution, Ghirardelli offers more than just chocolate squares. Indulge in sundaes, shakes, and a wide array of chocolate creations. The atmosphere alone is worth the visit.
CandyStore.com: While technically an online retailer with a physical presence, their San Francisco location offers a vast selection of candies from around the world. It’s a candy lover's paradise.
It'Sugar: This playful candy emporium features a wide variety of quirky and unique candies, plus novelty items and gifts. Expect vibrant colors and a fun, energetic atmosphere.

Artisanal & Gourmet Delights: For the Discerning Sweet Tooth

For those seeking higher-quality, often handcrafted, treats, these stores are a must-visit:

Ben & Jerry's (Multiple Locations): While known for ice cream, many locations offer a selection of delicious and unique candy options. Check their local offerings.
See's Candies: A West Coast classic, See's offers a range of chocolates, caramels, and other confections known for their high-quality ingredients and classic recipes.
Dandelion Chocolate: While primarily focused on chocolate, Dandelion offers a unique selection of chocolate bars and related treats, perfect for the discerning chocolate lover.

Unique & Thematic Candy Experiences: Stepping Outside the Box

These stores offer something a bit different, adding a unique twist to the candy experience:

Smitten Ice Cream: Similar to Ben & Jerry's, they often incorporate unique candies into their ice cream creations which can offer unexpected and delightful combinations.
Miette: While primarily known for its beautiful pastries, Miette often features delightful candies and sweet treats to complement their offerings.
Humphreys of San Francisco: A speciality food retailer, Humphreys carries a selection of curated gourmet candies alongside other high-quality ingredients and specialty items.

Beyond the Big Names: Hidden Gems & Local Favorites

Exploring beyond the well-known names often reveals hidden treasures:

Lolli & Pops (Multiple Locations): This colourful candy store is known for its vast selection and eye-catching displays.
Sugarfina (Multiple Locations): Known for its luxurious and sophisticated candy selections.
Dylan's Candy Bar: A brightly colored, playful store offering a wide selection of candies from familiar brands and some unique options.
Chocolate Covered: This specialized shop focuses solely on, you guessed it, chocolate-covered delights.

International Flavors: A Taste of the World

For a more global sweet experience, consider:

Local Asian Markets: Many Asian markets carry unique and delicious candies from various Asian countries. Explore and discover new flavors.

Specialty Shops: Catering to Specific Tastes

These stores focus on particular types of candy or offer a niche experience:

The Jelly Bean Factory: As the name suggests, this store is dedicated to jelly beans in every flavor imaginable.
A local candy store near Fisherman's Wharf: Several smaller candy stores near popular tourist areas offer a convenient and often unique selection of candies and souvenirs.
Candy shops in North Beach: This historic neighborhood often features smaller, independent candy stores worth exploring for unique finds.

Planning Your Candy Adventure

To make the most of your San Francisco candy exploration:

Consider the location: Many stores are clustered in specific neighborhoods, making it efficient to plan a candy-focused walking tour.
Check online reviews: Before visiting, consult online reviews to check current offerings, hours, and customer experiences.

This list provides a starting point for your San Francisco candy adventure. Remember to explore beyond the well-known names and discover the hidden gems that make this city's sweet scene truly unique. Happy candy hunting!