6. Schmidt’s Candy, Queens
Schmidt’s Candy opened in 1925 at 94-15 Jamaica Avenue below the elevated tracks of the Brooklyn Rapid Transit (BMT). Founder Frank Schmidt affectionately referred to as Grandpa Schmidt used old-world German recipes to craft delectable chocolates for his Queens customers in Woodhaven. The business was passed down through generations first to his son, then to his daughter-in-law, and today it is run by Frank’s granddaughter Margie. While much of the neighborhood has changed, Schmidt’s Candy has stayed true to its old-world ways. Schmidt chocolates are still made on-site and by hand using the original copper kettle, marble tables, and even the original wooden drying racks. Few remaining chocolatiers in the city do so. You can grab some treats for yourself in the store or online through Schmidt’s website!
