A Sweet Spot in Ronkonkoma

If you live in Ronkonkoma or the Sachem area you know Ralphs Ices on Portion Road, but what the little known treasure that the bustling town hides is behind the ice stand. Ralph Rottens Great American Candy Shoppe is a small family-owned candy store run by Joanne Styles.

Ralph Candy was once a chain of popular candy stores all around Long Island, but when the business turned sour (hence the name Rottens) the franchise fell apart. But Styles and her late husband Shell had other plans for the candy store. They kept the store open under their own ownership and the business flourished.

Shell's kind heart pulled in customers and his generosity kept them coming. Joanne now owns the store herself and constantly keeps Shell in mind. His motto, "Life is uncertain, eat dessert first," is even painted on the wall.

The store is a popular attraction to people of all ages. Children wander in for the first time in amazement as they gaze at the large variety of colorful and fun candies scattered around the store and faithful costumers who have been visiting Ralph Rottens for 20 years still browse the many selections daily.

Joanne, her daughter and the four employees of Ralphs are friendly and congenial and know how to keep a business running with their charm and girl power. The staff is like a family, with past and present employees' hands colorfully strewn on the walls.

Patrons can also see and meet nearly all of them when Christmas rolls around. The winter months may bring a closing to the popular ices but it's safe to say that it's the busiest time of year for the candy shop. Ralph Rottens offers custom fruit, nut, candy, and chocolate trays that are made to order in bulk for any business or family gift.

Gift boxes, baskets, and nearly any candy you can imagine are all readily available year-round (including trays) and around Valentines Day you can pick up an empty heart-shaped box and fill it up with any of the huge selection of fine chocolates they have to offer.

The Great American Candy Shoppe also offers candy for the allergy sensitive and a variety of sugar-free chocolates and candy for the diabetic and those watching the waist line. This candy store is also known widely for its extensive variety of dried fruits and nuts ranging from papaya to rasins, brazil nuts to pistachios and peanuts.

Stop by Ralph Rottens and say hello, try a free sample, browse and maybe pick up a tasty treat to satisfy that sweet tooth (may I suggest the buttercrunch; it's to die for.)