Are you a candy lover? If you are there is no doubt that you must stop by Sweet Pete’s in Jacksonville, Florida. You may have heard about this unique candy shop on the highly publicized program, The Profit.
This three story corner lot building is located on Hogan Street in downtown area of the city. The upscale venue will blow your candy mind. Sweet Pete’s is not only an adorable candy shop but a place to dine, host parties, have ice cream or maybe even take a cooking class or two.
And, if you’re not a candy lover, don’t worry they have that handled with The Candy Apple Cafe. Everyone has to eat! Serving French and southern fusion on a plate, folks can dine inside or enjoy porch- style dining. Here they find themselves people watching. The menu is sophisticated and upscale with a great price point. They host special events several times a month from jazz dinners, porch parties and happy hours to classes.
Sweet Pete’s has taken the words “candy store” to a whole new level folks and we loved it. The presence of this building from the outside has such an impact. For years it was a building of distinction in the city. Now, it’s a candy store and bringing in great traffic for the downtown area.
As I walked through the large front door, the aroma of sweet treats took over. The floors are mahogany wood until you join in on the candy room area where it brings back the look of the antiquated flooring with black and while checkered walk areas. On the counters are lovely displayed and beautifully wrapped delicious treats. To the left of the front door you’ll find The Candy Apple Cafe. To the right indulging chocolates could be waiting for you to select and purchase.
Climbing the stairs with excitement, I could hardly wait to see what was in store in the upstairs area. The beautiful bright chandeliers hanging were reflecting the light from the large floor to ceiling windows. Every candy you could possibly think of from taffy, suckers, gum-balls, sour sticks to chocolates of every kind could be seen. Upstairs, Pete’s parlor, a hosting area for events could be viewed. With a gorgeous decorated room overlooking downtown, there was also an ice cream parlor with tons of flavors.
And to top it all off, Pete, the candy man could be seen making his candy in real time.
The third floor was a area for larger events to be held. What a fantastic concept they have created. If you are looking for the newest hot spot to host your event contact Sweet Pete’s. Your guests will surely be impressed.
Here are my tips on visiting Sweet Pete’s “The Best Candy Store Around”:
- Make a reservation at The Candy Apple Cafe for lunch
- To avoid a long wait time, make your reservations for 11am
- Prepare your parking strategy. Here are a few options
- Get involved: Make reservations for a fun class
- Bring the wet wipes if you have young ones
Most of all have fun and take your time in the store. Enjoy the outside patio with large vintage chairs that overlook Hemming Park. Take in all the smells and beauty.
Katie Girl
