Fannie May

- 825 S Waukegan Rd, Lake Forest, IL 60045

For over a century, the name Fannie May has been a cherished part of the sweet history of Illinois. The store in Lake Forest is a testament to this enduring legacy, offering a classic chocolate shop experience that is both nostalgic and delightful. Since opening its first store in Chicago in 1920, Fannie May has become synonymous with high-quality, fresh, and delicious confections. It is a brand built on a commitment to rich, time-tested recipes, and that dedication is evident in every single piece of chocolate. For residents of the Illinois region, a visit to a Fannie May store is a chance to indulge in a tradition of gourmet treats that have been enjoyed by generations. The store provides a welcoming atmosphere where you can find an impressive selection of signature confections, from the famous Pixies and Mint Meltaways to creamy Buttercreams and more. It is a perfect destination for those looking to satisfy a sweet craving, find a thoughtful gift, or simply enjoy a moment of pure, sweet bliss.

The experience at Fannie May is defined not only by its products but also by the people who serve them. Customers consistently praise the "very nice people" who are "candy lovers too," creating a friendly and personal atmosphere that makes every visit memorable. This welcoming and gracious service adds to the enjoyment, making the experience feel special and unique. While some may note changes in product size or pricing over the years, the core values of quality and exceptional customer service remain. One long-time customer expressed their delight at discovering a nearby location, having previously traveled a long distance to get their favorite candy. This highlights the value of the local presence of a brand with such a rich history. The store also offers options like sugar-free chocolates, catering to a wider audience and showing their commitment to being an inclusive destination for all chocolate lovers. It is this combination of a legendary product line, a rich heritage, and a personal, friendly approach that makes the Lake Forest Fannie May a truly special place to visit.

Location and Accessibility

The Fannie May store is conveniently located at 825 S Waukegan Rd, Lake Forest, IL 60045, USA. This location places it in a well-known area of Lake Forest, making it a simple and accessible destination for anyone in the North Shore and surrounding suburbs. The store is part of a commercial area that is easy to navigate, with a straightforward location that is perfect for a quick visit. Whether you're making a special trip for a gift or just stopping by on a whim, the store's central presence in the community makes it an easy choice.

The business is also committed to ensuring that all customers can access its delightful products with ease. The Lake Forest location offers a wheelchair-accessible entrance and a wheelchair-accessible parking lot. These important features demonstrate a thoughtful approach to serving the entire community, making it possible for people with mobility challenges to enjoy the store's offerings without any difficulty. The combination of a convenient location and a focus on accessibility ensures a welcoming and stress-free experience for everyone.

Services Offered

Fannie May provides a range of services designed to make their premium chocolates easily accessible to everyone. The business model is a blend of a classic retail experience and modern convenience, ensuring that customers can enjoy their products in a way that best suits their needs. Beyond being a simple chocolate shop, their services are crafted to provide a delightful and personalized experience.

• In-Store Shopping: The main service offered is an in-person retail experience. Customers can browse a wide selection of gourmet chocolates from the display case or select from pre-packaged gift boxes. The store invites you to create your own customizable chocolate box from over 50 different confections, providing a truly personalized selection.

• In-Store Pickup and Takeout: For convenience, the store offers both in-store pickup and takeout options. This allows you to place an order ahead of time and simply pick it up at the store, which is ideal for a quick visit or a busy schedule.

• Onsite Services: The business also provides onsite services, which may include special orders for events, holidays, or corporate gifts. This showcases their ability to cater to larger needs and provide a professional, customized experience for various occasions.

• Complimentary Samples: As part of the delightful in-store experience, the store offers a complimentary sample of their unique chocolates. This is a fantastic way to try a new flavor and discover a new favorite before you make a purchase, and it's a key part of their warm and welcoming service.

Features / Highlights

Fannie May’s reputation is built on a series of key features and highlights that set it apart from other chocolate and candy shops. These elements contribute to its enduring appeal and its position as a go-to destination for quality confections in the Illinois region. The brand’s focus on flavor, variety, and a personal touch is what truly makes it a standout.

• Timeless, High-Quality Chocolates: The store is renowned for its selection of high-quality, gourmet chocolates. Customers laud the freshness and deliciousness of the candy, with a loyal following for signature creations like Pixies and Dixies (a variation of the Pixie, featuring almonds instead of pecans). The dedication to time-tested recipes ensures a consistent and enjoyable taste in every piece.

• Sugar-Free Options: A notable highlight is the availability of sugar-free chocolates. This shows a commitment to catering to customers with different dietary needs, ensuring that those who are diabetic or choose to limit their sugar intake can still enjoy a decadent treat. This inclusion is a significant feature for a wide range of patrons.

• Friendly and Knowledgeable Staff: Customers rave about the staff, who are described as "very nice people who are candy lovers too." They are welcoming, helpful, and provide exceptional service, offering samples and assistance in selecting items. This personal interaction enhances the overall experience and is a major reason for customer loyalty.

• Customizable Selections: The ability to create your own customizable chocolate box from over 50 different confections is a key highlight. It allows customers to tailor their selection to their exact preferences, whether they want all creams, all dark chocolate, or a mix of everything.

• Legacy and Heritage: As a brand with over a century of history in the Chicago area, Fannie May holds a special place in the hearts of many. The store’s heritage adds a layer of nostalgia and authenticity that you won't find at a generic candy shop, making a visit feel like a connection to a local institution.

Contact Information

To plan your visit or for more information on their products, you can contact the Fannie May store directly. Their friendly and helpful staff is ready to assist you with your chocolate needs.

Address: 825 S Waukegan Rd, Lake Forest, IL 60045, USA

Phone: (224) 706-3998

What is worth choosing

When you're looking for a special treat or a memorable gift in the Illinois region, choosing Fannie May is a decision that offers a truly rewarding experience. The store's value proposition is built on its long-standing reputation for excellence, the quality of its products, and the warmth of its service. While a customer noted some changes in product packaging and pricing, the overall experience and quality of the chocolate remain a strong reason to choose this classic brand.

The primary reason to choose Fannie May is its unparalleled quality and freshness. A customer who was a long-time fan was delighted to find that the candy was "fresh and delicious," a testament to the brand's commitment to its products. This is a stark contrast to the sometimes stale candy you might find at other retailers. The ability to find a variety of signature favorites, like the highly sought-after Dixies, is a major draw for loyal customers. The consistent quality and delicious taste of these classic confections make them a reliable choice for anyone with a love for great desserts.

Furthermore, the personalized service and attention to detail make shopping at Fannie May a pleasure. The staff is not just there to sell; they are "candy lovers too," and their enthusiasm is contagious. The offer of a complimentary sample is a small but impactful gesture that demonstrates a genuine desire to create a positive experience. This level of customer care makes you feel valued and appreciated, which is something that can't be found at a larger, more impersonal store. The fact that the store offers sugar-free options also shows that they are thinking about their customers' needs, making it a more inclusive and thoughtful choice.

Finally, choosing Fannie May is about supporting a brand with deep roots in Illinois history. It’s a chance to partake in a local tradition that has been bringing joy to families for over 100 years. While one review points out changes in packaging for holiday items, this is a common occurrence in the retail world and does not diminish the overall quality of the core products. The true value lies in the delicious, high-quality chocolates and the friendly, personalized service that you can rely on. By visiting Fannie May, you are choosing a place that stands for quality, tradition, and a sweet experience that will have you coming back for more.

Fannie May

825 S Waukegan Rd, Lake Forest, IL 60045, USA