I Choo-Choo-Choose Sweetness: All Aboard Candy Has Arrived (On Time!) In Rittenhouse
The popular local brand, known for its candy charcuterie boards, has transformed former sandwich shop Tortorice’s into an Instagram-worthy candy shop.
What if Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat show came to life?
Because stepping into the newest corner of 20th and Locust Streets is like falling into a modern-day candy-colored dream. All Aboard Candy, the brainchild of longtime friends Alyssa Bonventure and Emily Grossman, has finally materialized into a brick-and-mortar wonderland in former sandwich shop Tortorice’s, that transforms the simple act of buying candy into a fun adventure.
From Pandemic Project to Candy Paradise
What began in 2020 as a pandemic-era passion project—crafting “candy charcuterie boards” to brighten dark times—has evolved. Like the Willy Wonka of the TikTok era, founders Alyssa Bonventure and Emily Grossman transformed their lockdown creativity into a social media phenomenon. Nearly 1 million TikTok likes proved that people craved more than just sugar—they yearned for experiences that sparked joy, Marie Kondo-style but with Swedish fish instead of folded socks.
The heart of the shop is elevated displays showcase everything in organized style, from viral Swedish imports to nostalgic American favorites.
A Global Candy Journey
Walking into All Aboard Candy feels like stepping into fun. There’s a pick-and-mix wall of bulk candy, stocked with 48 cult-favorite brands from around the globe — including viral Swedish candies like BUBS, S-Märke, and Malaco.
The store’s architectural candy library stretches floor to ceiling, where white shelving creates a gallery-like presentation. Glass jars of Swedish fish mingle with domestic favorites, while neatly organized boxes of international treats invite exploration.
The shop doesn’t merely sell candy—it curates experiences with the precision of a Netflix algorithm but infinitely more colorful. Beyond the pick-and-mix wall, customers discover pre-packaged luxuries from brands like Sugarfina and BonBon, alongside the store’s signature customizable boards starting at $30.
Aesthetic Meets Appetite
The storefront itself makes a statement with bold black and white stripes that wouldn’t look out of place in a high-end fashion district. The corner location commands attention, while large windows offer tantalizing glimpses of the interior.
The design philosophy extends beyond mere Instagram appeal. Every element—from the marble-like display stands to the carefully chosen color palette—creates an environment where purchasing candy feels like adult fun. This isn’t a corner store impulse buy; it’s a destination worthy of deliberate visits. As we’ve been there 2x already, we feel that we speak from some experience.
Pick & Mix Indulgence
The real magic in our opinion happens at the pick-and-mix stations, where us customers become curators of own candy collections. Clear acrylic bins reveal gummy treasures in every conceivable shape and flavor—from translucent green delights to classic gummy bears.
The tactile experience of scooping and selecting creates a mindful moment in our increasingly digital world—it’s basically the analog answer to scrolling, but way more satisfying and with actual sugar rush rewards.
Community Connection Through Confection
Bonventure and Grossman see their shop as an opportunity for connection, from stocking local brands to partnering with Philly businesses for unique events.
They’re dreaming up everything from shopping nights to dinner-party collabs to a block party. They understand that their venture represents more than retail—it’s about building community through shared sweetness.
Sweetness & Beyond
All Aboard Candy opened around the same time as Lil Sweet Treat to give us more candy option but we feel that there is something more significant—proof that Rittenhouse continues to embrace businesses that prioritize experiential moments, community, and joy.
In our city All Aboard Candy offers something different—permission to indulge in pure delight. Sometimes the most rewarding act is simply creating a space where sweetness reigns supreme, and every visitor leaves a little happier than when they arrived.
Follow them on Instagram to stay on top of all the great things happening and for a dose of pure fun.
