Best Of Minnesota: Candy Store

ST. PAUL, Minn. (WCCO) -- WCCO viewers said the Best Candy Store in the state is the same one that's become a landmark in downtown St. Paul – Candyland.

It's roughly the size of a large shoe box, but what it lacks in size, it makes up for in history.

"We started in 1932 on Wabasha Street," Brenda Lamb said.

Back then, the store was called Flavo-corn, and owner Arnie Kelsey was selling popcorn only.

But when he added all types of sweets in the '40s, Candyland was born.

When Brenda and her husband, Doug, took over the business in 1981, they kept the culture that Kelsey established alive.

"Like I say, tradition is part of our business, because we've seen -- I've seen myself -- children grow up and bring their children in since I've been here," Brenda said.

Candyland wouldn't have made it this long without having the cure for your sweet tooth – including chocolate potato chips.

They've got everything, from old fashioned favorites like penuche fudge and sponge candy, to homemade butter toffee bars.

And something called a carmello.

"It's a marshmallow dipped in caramel, then dipped in chocolate with a cherry on top ... everything is better with a cherry on top," said a Candyland chef.

Candyland does have two Minneapolis locations, and they just opened a store in Stillwater last summer.