James’ Candy – Atlantic City NJ Boardwalk

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The story goes that salt water taffy was invented right here in Atlantic City in the 1880s. James’ Candy on the boardwalk is a great place to get this taste of the past because you’ve got 2 classic brands to choose from.

For decades the two prominent taffy brands were James’ and Fralinger’s. Both companies started in the late 1800s and created sweet taffy treats for beachgoers. James’ taffy was said to be “cut-to-fit-the-mouth” and is still made in those bite sized pieces. Fralinger’s taffy is recognizable for its “long shape” slender sticks of taffy.

Today you can take your pick at the same shop as the iconic brands are both under the wing of New Jersey’s Glaser family (who also own Bayard’s Chocolates - see our writup of their Cinnaminson location.) The Glasers wisely kept both taffy recipes and branding the same as it had been for decades. Sample some of each and decide what you prefer!

While Mod Betty has a sweet tooth, she also has an eye for vintage inspired packaging, so the hardest part of making her selection here is deciding which iconic box she’d like to keep after the candy is gone. Will it be the James’ deLuxe assortment with Atlantic City beach scene? Or perhaps the seafoam green Fralinger’s box decorated with a 1920’s bathing-capped beauty frolicking in ocean? Decisions, decisions!

Nothing says “I’ve been down the shore” than a box of taffy bringing the taste of the seaside back to your family, friends, or envious co-workers.

Retro Roadnotes:

Look for the painted signs above the James’ factory just behind the store.

Not a taffy fan? Other popular local seaside treats are macaroons and molasses paddles.

Feeling fancy? Try the chocolate-sealed taffy, wrapped in foil. Ooh la la!