Criterion Chocolates is a Jersey Shore tradition of almost 100 years, known for its premium chocolate confections and saltwater taffy made by hand. This adorable, small shop is a little out of the way but well worth the trip. It is always very clean, well-lit, and usually uncrowded. The staff is super friendly and great, freely offering samples and ideas to help create the perfect box.
They offer a huge variety of delicate and delicious sweets with great flavor. Choices include lots of milk and dark chocolate options, sugar-free chocolate, chocolate-covered pretzels, fudge, milk chocolate-covered orange peels, and milk chocolate cashew turtles. They are famous for their saltwater taffy, including a strongest root beer flavored taffy. The shop is excellent for themed chocolates for holidays and is great for gifts, parties, and a daily dose of sweets. Their presentations are lovely, with waxed paper folded neatly around chocolates, and they offer special services like wrapping with colored ribbons. The chocolates are absolutely incredible, crave-worthy, and often don't last long.
This place has authentic fudge that is buttery and smooth texture. Best fudge ever!
December 2025
I stopped here by chance to make a u-turn while holiday shopping. Delightful shop and stunning delicious fancy boxed chocolate gifts. Big hit at our party! Thank you!!
August 2024
Sweets for my husband :) great flavor!!!!!! Thank you guys ❤️ delicate and delicious!!!!! Great for gifts ?⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ They have sugar freeeeee chocolate ?
