A Historic Candy Shop and Diner
The Original Candy Kitchen first opened in 1890 as Williamson Candy Kitchen. Over the decades, it has stayed in the hands of the founding family, now operated by Mary and Peter Anagnostopoulos, descendants of the Boosalis family. This continuity is rare and part of what makes it special.
What started as an ice cream parlor gradually became a hybrid candy shop and diner. Walking inside, you’ll notice wooden counters, soda-fountain stools, and cozy booths that give the space old-school Main Street charm. The décor feels familiar yet inviting, a nod to its long history while still feeling fresh.
In 2024, the state officially recognized the Original Candy Kitchen for historic preservation, cementing its place in Williamson’s heritage. It’s not just about nostalgia, this is a working café and candy shop that continues to impress visitors with quality food and sweets.
Breakfast I’d Drive For Again
I visited on a recommendation from a follower named Katie. When I arrived, I ran into another local, Jack, who told me I had to try two things: the pancakes and the country bowl. Both were excellent and showed why Original Candy Kitchen is more than just a candy shop.
Blueberry Pancakes
I started with the blueberry pancakes. These are large in diameter and thick, with an impressive number of blueberries packed inside. They’re fluffy yet substantial, the kind that soaks up butter and maple syrup without turning mushy. Every bite was sweet but balanced, and the natural blueberry flavor paired perfectly with the buttery, slightly crisp exterior.
These pancakes are the kind of breakfast that makes a morning feel amazing. They are indulgent without being overwhelming, and it’s easy to see why locals rave about them.
Country Bowl
Next up was the country bowl: fried potatoes, eggs, sausage, cheese, and country gravy. The standout element here is the gravy. Many country-style gravies in New York tend to be thin or bland, but this one is thick, creamy, and peppery. It clings to the potatoes and sausage, bringing all the elements together into a rich, satisfying dish.
The eggs are perfectly cooked, and the sausage is hearty and flavorful. Combined with the melted cheese, this is comfort food at its best. The country bowl alone makes the drive to Williamson worthwhile.
Candy and Old-School Charm
The candy side of the shop is just as impressive. They still hand-pull ribbon candy, offer molded chocolates, and create seasonal specials. Walking through the candy counter while enjoying breakfast adds another layer to the experience.
This combination of candy and classic breakfast makes the Original Candy Kitchen unique. It’s rare to find a place where you can enjoy a full breakfast, then grab chocolates to take home, all while soaking in over a century of local history.
Why Original Candy Kitchen Still Matters
Places like this survive for over a century because they offer more than just food—they offer an experience. Original Candy Kitchen delivers three things that keep people coming back:
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History and heritage. Over 130 years in business, family-owned for four generations.
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Quality breakfast and comfort food. Pancakes, country bowls, and more show care in preparation and flavor.
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Nostalgia and charm. Candy, décor, and classic diner feel create a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Whether you’re a longtime local or passing through, this spot offers something rare: a combination of tradition, taste, and tactile charm that few modern cafés can match.
Final Thoughts
If you’re in Williamson or exploring Wayne County, stop at Original Candy Kitchen. Blueberry pancakes, the country bowl, and their handmade candies make it a full breakfast and dessert experience.
Walking in feels like stepping back in time, but every bite reminds you that the food here is timeless. After more than 130 years, the Original Candy Kitchen continues to feed bellies, sweeten days, and preserve a piece of local history.
Whether you’re stopping in for breakfast, lunch, or a sweet treat, this is one classic spot that proves why some traditions are worth preserving.
