Lepore's Hoboken's Famous Chocolates

- 105 4th St, Hoboken, NJ 07030

Introduction / Overview

In the vibrant and historic city of Hoboken, New Jersey, where every street holds a story, there is a true local gem that has been a cherished part of the community for decades: Lepore's Hoboken's Famous Chocolates. This isn't just a dessert shop; it's a living piece of Hoboken's history, a place where the art of chocolate making is celebrated with passion and a personal touch. Opened in 1980 by Mario Lepore, the shop is a traditional, family-owned establishment that has won a "This Place Matters" designation from Hoboken's Historic Preservation Commission for being a landmark business. Mario, who makes all the chocolate on the premises, prides himself on using the best ingredients, including a special blend of Dutch chocolate that he believes has the perfect balance of creaminess and "a bite to it." The atmosphere is described as a trip back in time, complete with a traditional glass counter and vintage coin-operated rides outside, giving every visitor the feeling of being a kid in a candy store. The owners are known for being incredibly friendly, generous, and dedicated, providing a level of personal service that is a rare find in today's world.

Lepore's Hoboken's Famous Chocolates specializes in an array of handmade confections, including everything from classic chocolate bars to more unique creations like chocolate-covered bacon and peanut butter and jelly chocolates. They are also known for their specialty items, such as the elusive "sponge candy," a favorite among customers from certain regions. This dedication to variety and quality ensures that there is something to satisfy every taste and craving. Whether you are a long-time resident of New Jersey or just visiting for the day, a stop at Lepore's is a delightful and memorable experience that connects you with the heart and soul of Hoboken's local business scene.

Location and Accessibility

Lepore's Hoboken's Famous Chocolates is perfectly situated at 105 4th St, Hoboken, NJ 07030, USA. This central location places the shop on a charming side street, just a short walk from the main thoroughfares of the city. The convenience of its location makes it a perfect destination for a quick visit while exploring the area, or a planned trip specifically to pick up their famous sweets. Hoboken is well-connected to public transit, making it an easy trip for residents across New Jersey and even from nearby New York City.

In terms of accessibility, the shop is welcoming to everyone. It features a wheelchair accessible entrance, which is a key amenity that ensures all customers can easily get inside to browse their delectable offerings. The shop is designed for a quick and easy visit, and the central location on a street with sidewalks and parking options makes it a hassle-free destination. This commitment to accessibility is a testament to their dedication to serving the entire community, ensuring that everyone can enjoy a taste of their delicious confections.

Services Offered

• In-store Pickup: Customers can place an order and pick it up directly from the store, making for a quick and convenient transaction.
• Takeout: All products are available for takeout, allowing you to easily purchase your favorite chocolates to enjoy on the go or at home.
• Onsite Services: The shop offers various onsite services, which can include custom chocolate designs, gift baskets, and possibly event catering. This personalization is a hallmark of their business.
• Dessert Offerings: The primary service is providing a wide range of delicious desserts, with a focus on handmade chocolates, toffees, and other specialty confections.

Features / Highlights

• Handmade Chocolates: The chocolates are made daily on the premises by the owner, Mario Lepore, using his own special blend of high-quality Dutch chocolate. This commitment to craftsmanship ensures a fresh and superior product.
• Friendly and Generous Owners: As highlighted in customer reviews, the owners are exceptionally friendly and generous. One customer shared a story of being given a free piece of "sponge candy" from a "secret stash," a testament to their kind and welcoming nature.
• Classic and Unique Offerings: The store offers a mix of traditional favorites, like chocolate-covered fruits and nuts, as well as unique creations such as peanut butter and jelly chocolates and chocolate-covered Oreos.
• Specialty Items: The shop is a rare find for certain specialty confections, such as sponge candy, which is a delightful surprise for those who grew up with it.
• Hoboken Landmark: The business has been a staple in Hoboken since 1980 and has been recognized as a historic landmark, a testament to its enduring quality and community value.
• Convenient Payment Options: For customer convenience, they accept credit cards, debit cards, and NFC mobile payments, making transactions quick and easy.

Contact Information

Address: 105 4th St, Hoboken, NJ 07030, USA

Phone: (201) 659-4783

Mobile Phone: +1 201-659-4783

What is worth choosing

Choosing to visit Lepore's Hoboken's Famous Chocolates is a decision that is well worth it for any chocolate lover in New Jersey. The primary reason is the incredible quality and care that goes into every product. The chocolates are not mass-produced; they are lovingly handmade on-site daily, a fact that is immediately apparent in the taste and freshness. As one reviewer from Philadelphia stated, they would "definitely will make the trip back up soon," which is a powerful endorsement of just how good their products are. The commitment to using high-quality ingredients, including their unique Dutch chocolate blend, sets them apart from typical dessert shops and big-box retailers.

Beyond the product, the atmosphere and personal service are what truly make Lepore's a gem. The owners are a delight to interact with, as demonstrated by the heartwarming story of the "sponge candy" incident. This level of personal connection makes the shopping experience feel special and memorable. It's a place where you're treated not just as a customer, but as a welcomed guest. This friendliness, coupled with the classic, traditional feel of the store, creates an inviting environment that feels like a cherished throwback to a simpler time. It’s a "trip back in time" that many customers appreciate and remember fondly.

Finally, by choosing Lepore's, you are supporting a cornerstone of the Hoboken community. As a long-standing local business that has been recognized as a landmark, it's a vital part of the city's character. Shopping here helps preserve a piece of local history and supports the tradition of artisan craftsmanship. The unique offerings, from their famous peanut butter hearts to the ability to get a hard-to-find item like sponge candy, ensure that every visit is a treasure hunt. For anyone in New Jersey seeking not just a sweet treat but a genuine, high-quality experience with a rich history and warm, personal service, Lepore's Hoboken's Famous Chocolates is an absolute must-visit.

Lepore's Hoboken's Famous Chocolates

105 4th St, Hoboken, NJ 07030, USA