The Sweet Life

The Sweet Life is one of the “little gems” in the historic Lower East Side that has managed to withstand the test of time and become a permanent fixture in the neighborhood. Established in 1982, the family owned business is dedicated to bringing gourmet chocolates and candy from around the world---to their packed little store. The store itself is fairly small but somehow amongst the full shelves of candy, I did not feel overwhelmed or discouraged by the abundance of sugary offerings, but enthusiastic about what treasures I might find. In addition to importing sweets, they also make their own on-site. I decided to sample something handmade and unique to The Sweet Life. When I asked the sales person what their signature piece was, she recommended the Caramel softy pop. The lollipop is composed of marshmallow and caramel covered in a milk chocolate on a stick. I’m usually not a fan of marshmallow, but I decided to take her advice. It was amazing. The petite confection was light and fluffy and gave me a scrumptious sugar buzz--without making me feel overly guilty. If on the LES, pop into The Sweet Life and grab a pop!

The Sweet Life

63 Hester St. (@ Ludlow St.)

New York, NY 10002

phone: 212.598.0092

Subway: East Broadway Station, F

Price: $$

Economy Candy

Since 1937, Economy candy has been providing the Lower East Side with a large assortment of delicious candy at discounted prices. Economy Candy has been able to adapt to the current confectionary needs of the urbanites while maintaining its old-fashioned aesthetic and feel. A trip to Economy is an adventure within itself. One can get lost browsing the endless amounts of bins, jars, cabinets, boxes and bags that occupy the store. The genius of the store is that it completely lacks order. Scavenging around was fun and ultimately rewarding. I left with several cool things including a pack of Fruit Stripe Gum, an old superman comic book, and chocolate band-aids (for life’s boo boos). Fruit Stripe Gum (not known for its taste) was fun to play around with for wrapped around each piece of gum is a temporary tattoo sheet. You simply lick your hand and then rub one the image on it and voila-- a tattoo for your LES stroll.

108 Rivington Street
New York, NY 10002-2204
(212) 254-1531
Subway: Essex st. – Delancy st. Station
F, J, M, Z
Price: $