Sweets for the sweet (and where to find them!)

I’ve always found it appropriate that one of the most iconic representations of Rehoboth Beach is a candy store sign. In fact, the international orange-colored Dolle’s logo that looms over the Boardwalk is as much a symbol of Rehoboth as North Shores’ WWII observation towers and No Left Turn signs.

Ancient taffy-making machines at Dolle’s still crank out the tubular treats that share the counter with caramel corn (with or without nuts). A Rehoboth Foodie pick: Take a bite of a chocolate-flavored and an orange-flavored taffy at the same time. Trust me on this. Next door, Ibach’s celebrates holidays with all sorts of handmade goodies. Speaking of caramel corn, whose is better: Dolle’s or Fisher’s? Find out for yourself!

It’s hard to forget Candy Kitchen, mainly because you can’t throw a malted milk ball around here without hitting one. I can’t pass up the colorful fruit slice jellies, the pistachio fudge and the King Tut fudge. The stuff freezes just fine. Ask me how I know.

Don’t miss Kilwin’s. This Michigan-based franchisor has been making people smile since 1947, and they have what I believe to be the best caramel in town. Almost three-quarters of the products they sell – including the caramel - are made in the store from scratch. The pecan and cashew turtles (dark chocolate) are not to be missed. For dessert, take home a marshmallow on a stick, cloaked in caramel and rolled in chopped pecans. They’re also known for their salted caramel ice cream. Oh, and the peanut brittle. And the salted caramel fudge. Oh my….

Jeff Balk at Snyder’s Candy sells those delightful multicolored licorice pastilles. (Think of the old Good & Plentys, but way smaller so you can fit more into your mouth.) Jeff also specializes in a wide variety of imported licorice. Both Snyder’s and Gidget’s Gadgets keep some of the old favorites in stock, like Black Jack and Teaberry gum, Sky Bars, Clark Bars, Mary Janes, Zippers, and Necco Wafers.

My intention was to keep things Rehoboth-centric, but I would be remiss if I didn’t mention Leisa Berlin’s Edie Bee’s confectionery on Second St. in Lewes. This one-of-a-kind sugar emporium will bring back lots of childhood memories, and maybe even a few cavities if you’re not careful.