Located on Market Street in a landmark corner building, Govatos Chocolates is the last place in Wilmington making and selling hand-dipped chocolates and candy, as they have done for 110+ years. Opened in 1894 by Greek immigrant John Govatos, the business is still operated by third-generation brothers Nick and Rich, and is considered to be one of the oldest family owned candy factories left in the country.
That factory? It isn’t in some office park off-site. All of the chocolates sold on the first floor retail location are crafted on the 3rd floor of this historic building, where the Govatos shop has been located since 1912.
Though the first floor area was renovated in 1985, a number of elements from the previous eras remain, including hand carved wood window surrounds and mirrors, and of course the candy cases where you can make your selection.
Known for their hand-dipped butter creams, Govatos is also a destination for seasonal sweets, from hand-decorated chocolate Easter eggs to Valentines hearts. They are also famous in the fall months for their caramel apples. Each one is individually dipped by hand in caramel made on-site with rich butter and cream, with some rolled in chopped brazil nuts for an extra savory crunch.
Open Monday through Friday the shop also offers breakfast and lunch - handy for the office workers who flood the city. Their homemade rice pudding is a local favorite - pick up some to go, along with your box of chocolates of course!
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