Davidson News

This Old-School Candy Factory In Florida Has Chocolate-Covered Bacon Known Around The World


Can you imagine a treat as unique as chocolate-covered bacon?

Angell & Phelps Chocolate Factory in Daytona Beach, Florida, is world-famous for this sweet-and-savory delight!

1 exterior1 exterior
Welcome to chocolate heaven! Angell & Phelps’ charming facade promises sweet delights within, like a Willy Wonka dream come to life in sunny Daytona Beach. Photo credit: Lee B.

Let me tell you, folks, I’ve been around the block a few times when it comes to chocolate.

I’ve sampled truffles in Switzerland, nibbled on nougat in France, and even attempted to make my own chocolate at home (spoiler alert: it didn’t end well for my kitchen or my ego).

But there’s something special about Angell & Phelps that makes it stand out like a gourmet truffle in a box of convenience store chocolates.

First off, let’s talk about the building itself.

It’s not exactly what you’d expect from a world-renowned chocolate factory.

Step into a world where calories don't count. This candy wonderland is stocked floor-to-ceiling with temptations that would make even the Tooth Fairy weak at the knees.Step into a world where calories don't count. This candy wonderland is stocked floor-to-ceiling with temptations that would make even the Tooth Fairy weak at the knees.
Step into a world where calories don’t count. This candy wonderland is stocked floor-to-ceiling with temptations that would make even the Tooth Fairy weak at the knees. Photo credit: Bruce Tilden

No golden tickets required here, folks.

Just a charming, unassuming storefront nestled in the bustling streets of Daytona Beach.

The white facade with its orange trim is as inviting as a freshly unwrapped candy bar, beckoning you to step inside and indulge your sweet tooth.

And let me tell you, once you’re through those doors, you’re in for a treat that’s sweeter than finding an extra fry at the bottom of your fast-food bag.

“Resistance is futile,” whisper these artisanal chocolates. From truffles to novelty shapes, each morsel is a tiny masterpiece waiting to melt your heart (and your diet). Photo credit: Carol Hobson-Payne

Now, I know what you’re thinking.

“Another chocolate shop? Been there, done that, bought the T-shirt (and probably got chocolate on it).”

But hold onto your taste buds, because Angell & Phelps is about to take you on a flavor journey that’ll make your average chocolate bar seem as exciting as watching paint dry.

Chocolate voyeurs, rejoice! Peek behind the curtain of confectionery magic as a curious visitor drinks in the sights, smells, and secrets of chocolate-making.Chocolate voyeurs, rejoice! Peek behind the curtain of confectionery magic as a curious visitor drinks in the sights, smells, and secrets of chocolate-making.
Chocolate voyeurs, rejoice! Peek behind the curtain of confectionery magic as a curious visitor drinks in the sights, smells, and secrets of chocolate-making. Photo credit: Sandra Vargas

Let’s start with their pièce de résistance, the chocolate-covered bacon.

Yes, you read that right.

Bacon.

Covered in chocolate.

It’s like someone took two of the world’s greatest inventions and said, “You know what? Let’s make them fall in love and have delicious, crispy-sweet babies.”

This isn’t just any old bacon, mind you.

We’re talking thick-cut, perfectly crispy strips of pork heaven, enrobed in a layer of rich, velvety chocolate.

It’s a combination so perfect it’ll make you wonder why you’ve been eating your bacon and chocolate separately all these years.

Where the magic happens: This kitchen is to chocolate lovers what Graceland is to Elvis fans – a place of pilgrimage and pure, sweet inspiration.Where the magic happens: This kitchen is to chocolate lovers what Graceland is to Elvis fans – a place of pilgrimage and pure, sweet inspiration.
Where the magic happens: This kitchen is to chocolate lovers what Graceland is to Elvis fans – a place of pilgrimage and pure, sweet inspiration. Photo credit: Feras Kaifi

But don’t just take my word for it.

This bacon-y bliss has gained quite the following, with chocolate lovers and pork enthusiasts alike making pilgrimages from far and wide to get their hands on this sweet and savory sensation.

Ten strips of chocolate-covered bacon and you get a free angiogram!

Now, if you’re not quite ready to take the plunge into the world of meat-based confections (though I highly recommend you do), fear not.

Chocolate shopping: The ultimate exercise in willpower. These customers are clearly failing the marshmallow test, and who can blame them?Chocolate shopping: The ultimate exercise in willpower. These customers are clearly failing the marshmallow test, and who can blame them?
Chocolate shopping: The ultimate exercise in willpower. These customers are clearly failing the marshmallow test, and who can blame them? Photo credit: Gary Rosier

Angell & Phelps has enough variety to make Willy Wonka himself green with envy.

From classic milk chocolate bars to exotic truffles, this place is like a United Nations of cocoa-based delights.

Want something fruity?

Try their chocolate-covered orange peels.

Feeling nutty?

Go for the chocolate-covered almonds.

Feeling like you need to atone for your dietary sins?

Well, they can’t help you there, but they do have some mighty fine dark chocolate that’s practically health food.

Bacon meets chocolate in a flavor explosion that'll make your taste buds do the cha-cha. It's the ultimate "treat yo' self" indulgence!Bacon meets chocolate in a flavor explosion that'll make your taste buds do the cha-cha. It's the ultimate "treat yo' self" indulgence!
Bacon meets chocolate in a flavor explosion that’ll make your taste buds do the cha-cha. It’s the ultimate “treat yo’ self” indulgence! Photo credit: Dena McKinley

But what really sets Angell & Phelps apart isn’t just their delectable treats.

It’s the experience.

You see, this isn’t just a shop.

It’s a full-blown chocolate factory, and they’re not shy about showing off their sweet-making skills.

Step into their tour area, and you’ll feel like you’ve been transported into a real-life episode of “How It’s Made” – only with 100% more chocolate and 100% less risk of falling asleep.

The factory tour is free, which is a bargain considering you get to watch actual chocolatiers at work.

It’s like dinner and a show, except the dinner is dessert and the show is watching dessert being made.

You’ll see everything from the tempering process (which, contrary to popular belief, has nothing to do with anger management for chocolate) to the molding and decorating of their famous treats.

And the best part?

You get to sample the goods at the end.

It’s like being a kid in a candy store, except you’re an adult and it’s socially acceptable for you to buy as much as you want.

Behold, nature's candy gets a glow-up! These chocolate-dipped strawberries are so pretty, they almost belong in a museum. Almost.Behold, nature's candy gets a glow-up! These chocolate-dipped strawberries are so pretty, they almost belong in a museum. Almost.
Behold, nature’s candy gets a glow-up! These chocolate-dipped strawberries are so pretty, they almost belong in a museum. Almost. Photo credit: Ric P.

Now, let’s talk about the history of this sweet spot.

Angell & Phelps has been around since 1925, which means they’ve been perfecting their craft for nearly a century.

That’s longer than sliced bread has been a thing.

Think about that for a second.

While the rest of the world was figuring out how to pre-slice their loaves, these folks were already knee-deep in cocoa butter and sugar.

The factory was founded by Riddell Angell and Cora Phelps, two women who clearly knew a thing or two about satisfying sweet tooths (sweet teeth?).

They started small, but their reputation for quality confections grew faster than a kid’s sugar high on Halloween night.

Single servings of joy: These chocolate-covered bacon strips are proof that sometimes, the best things in life come in small, smoky packages.Single servings of joy: These chocolate-covered bacon strips are proof that sometimes, the best things in life come in small, smoky packages.
Single servings of joy: These chocolate-covered bacon strips are proof that sometimes, the best things in life come in small, smoky packages. Photo credit: Scott W.

Today, Angell & Phelps is still family-owned and operated, which means every chocolate you buy comes with a side of good old-fashioned family values.

And by family values, I mean a shared love of all things sweet and delicious.

Walking into the store is like stepping back in time, but in the best possible way.

The decor is charmingly retro, with displays that look like they could have been there since opening day.

But don’t let the old-school vibe fool you.

These folks are constantly innovating, coming up with new flavors and combinations that’ll knock your socks off.

Chocolate gators: Because nothing says "Florida" quite like turning your local wildlife into a delicious treat. Crikey, that's good!Chocolate gators: Because nothing says "Florida" quite like turning your local wildlife into a delicious treat. Crikey, that's good!
Chocolate gators: Because nothing says “Florida” quite like turning your local wildlife into a delicious treat. Crikey, that’s good! Photo credit: Lee B.

Take their sea salt caramels, for instance.

It’s like they took the ocean, distilled it down to its essence, and then said, “You know what this needs? Caramel and chocolate.”

And let me tell you, they were right.

It’s a flavor combination so perfect, it’ll make you wonder why we don’t just cover everything in chocolate and sea salt.

Related: This Little-Known Seafood Shack in Florida is Serving Up Legendary Fried Clams

Related: Step into the Largest Restaurant in Florida Where 15 Dining Rooms Meet an Epic Menu

Related: Relive Timeless Traditions with Your Family at this Hot Dog Joint, a Florida Culinary Landmark Since the ‘70s

But wait, there’s more!

Angell & Phelps doesn’t just stop at chocolate.

Oh no, they’ve got a whole array of other sweet treats that’ll make your dentist weep and your taste buds rejoice.

Boxed bliss: Each of these elegant packages contains a treasure trove of flavors. It's like a choose-your-own-adventure book, but tastier.Boxed bliss: Each of these elegant packages contains a treasure trove of flavors. It's like a choose-your-own-adventure book, but tastier.
Boxed bliss: Each of these elegant packages contains a treasure trove of flavors. It’s like a choose-your-own-adventure book, but tastier. Photo credit: Rick P.

Their homemade fudge is so creamy and rich, it should come with its own warning label.

And don’t even get me started on their peanut brittle.

It’s got just the right balance of sweet and salty, with a crunch that’ll have you coming back for more.

It’s like they found a way to improve on perfection, which I didn’t even know was possible.

Now, I know what some of you health-conscious folks out there are thinking.

“But what about my diet? My beach body? My solemn vow to eat nothing but kale and sadness?”

To which I say: everything in moderation.

Including moderation.

A chocolate lover's dream come true: This display case is basically Tinder for your taste buds. Swipe right on all of them!A chocolate lover's dream come true: This display case is basically Tinder for your taste buds. Swipe right on all of them!
A chocolate lover’s dream come true: This display case is basically Tinder for your taste buds. Swipe right on all of them! Photo credit: Scott W.

Besides, dark chocolate is full of antioxidants.

It’s practically a superfood.

But seriously, Angell & Phelps has options for everyone.

They’ve got sugar-free chocolates that taste so good, you’ll forget they’re supposed to be “healthy.”

They’ve even got vegan options, because apparently, vegans like to indulge too.

Who knew?

And let’s not forget about their seasonal offerings.

Come holiday time, this place turns into a winter wonderland of chocolatey goodness.

Easter?

They’ve got chocolate bunnies that’ll make the Easter Bunny himself jealous.

Valentine’s Day?

Heart-shaped boxes filled with an assortment so good, it might just save your relationship.

Halloween?

Well, let’s just say if you’re the house giving out Angell & Phelps treats, you’re going to be the most popular stop on the block.

You might want to stock up, unless you enjoy the sound of disappointed trick-or-treaters.

Sugar-free but flavor-full! These guilt-free goodies prove that cutting sugar doesn't mean cutting the fun out of your chocolate adventure.Sugar-free but flavor-full! These guilt-free goodies prove that cutting sugar doesn't mean cutting the fun out of your chocolate adventure.
Sugar-free but flavor-full! These guilt-free goodies prove that cutting sugar doesn’t mean cutting the fun out of your chocolate adventure. Photo credit: Scott W.

But Angell & Phelps isn’t just about the products.

It’s about the experience.

The moment you walk in, you’re greeted by the intoxicating aroma of chocolate.

It’s like being hugged by Willy Wonka himself, minus the unsettling feeling that you might be turned into a blueberry at any moment.

The staff are friendly and knowledgeable, always ready with a recommendation or a sample.

It’s like they’re on a mission to make sure every customer leaves with a smile on their face and chocolate on their fingers.

And can we talk about the gift options for a second?

Behind every great chocolate is a great chocolatier. This kitchen maestro is orchestrating a symphony of sweetness that would make Mozart jealous.Behind every great chocolate is a great chocolatier. This kitchen maestro is orchestrating a symphony of sweetness that would make Mozart jealous.
Behind every great chocolate is a great chocolatier. This kitchen maestro is orchestrating a symphony of sweetness that would make Mozart jealous. Photo credit: Scott W.

Angell & Phelps has mastered the art of the perfect present.

Whether you’re shopping for your chocolate-obsessed aunt, your sweet-toothed boss, or that special someone who thinks calories don’t count if they’re given as a gift, they’ve got you covered.

Their gift baskets are works of art, filled with an assortment of treats that’ll make the recipient wonder what they did to deserve such deliciousness.

And if you’re feeling really fancy, you can even get custom chocolates made.

The possibilities are as endless as your imagination (and your wallet).

But perhaps the best thing about Angell & Phelps is how it brings people together.

In a world where we’re all too often glued to our phones, there’s something magical about watching families and friends bond over a shared love of chocolate.

Chocolate and classic cars: A match made in heaven. This scene is sweeter than a Beach Boys tune and twice as iconic.Chocolate and classic cars: A match made in heaven. This scene is sweeter than a Beach Boys tune and twice as iconic.
Chocolate and classic cars: A match made in heaven. This scene is sweeter than a Beach Boys tune and twice as iconic. Photo credit: Gary Rosier

So, whether you’re a local looking for a sweet escape or a tourist seeking out the hidden gems of Daytona Beach, Angell & Phelps Chocolate Factory is a must-visit destination.

It’s more than just a candy shop.

It’s a place where memories are made, taste buds are tantalized, and diets go to die a delicious death.

Just remember to pace yourself.

As tempting as it might be to try everything in one go, chocolate comas are real, and they’re not as fun as they sound.

Trust me on this one.

For more information about this sweet spot, check out Angell & Phelps Chocolate Factory’s website or Facebook page.

And don’t forget to use this map to find your way to chocolate heaven.

16. angell & phelps chocolate factory map16. angell & phelps chocolate factory map

Where: 154 S Beach St, Daytona Beach, FL 32114

Life’s too short for bad chocolate.

Treat yourself to the good stuff at Angell & Phelps.

Your taste buds will thank you, even if your waistline doesn’t.





Source link

Leave a Comment