9. JoMart, Brooklyn

JoMart owners
Michael Rogak and daughter, JoMart Chocolates

Martin Rogak and his cousin Joe started JoMart Chocolates 1946 on Franklin Avenue in East Flatbush. Candy making was in the Rogak blood. Martin’s father sold penny candies in Brooklyn in the 1920s. After World War II, Martin wanted to go into a business that would spread joy and happiness. In 1961 the store relocated to a shop on Avenue R in Madison, near Marine Park. It’s now run by “son of a son of a candymaker” Michael Rogak, Martin’s son. The chocolates are still made by hand on-site using equipment that is nearly 100 years old. There are even members of the staff who have been working there for decades.