Ray's Candy Store

- 113 Avenue A, New York, NY 10009

For more than half a century, Ray's Candy Store has been a cherished institution and a beacon of nostalgia in New York City's vibrant East Village. It's not just a dessert shop or a candy store; it’s a living piece of New York history. Located on Avenue A, this small and unassuming spot has become legendary, thanks in large part to its owner, Ray Alvarez, a beloved figure in the community who has been serving customers since 1974. At 92 years old, Ray’s presence, warmth, and dedication are what truly make this place special, turning a simple visit into a memorable encounter. The store itself is a feast for the eyes, with its walls covered in handwritten menus and a charmingly chaotic collection of items that evokes the feel of a classic neighborhood deli or a rural fair right in the middle of Manhattan.

While the name suggests a focus on sweets, Ray's Candy Store offers an expansive and eclectic menu that goes well beyond the typical dessert shop. It’s a place for all your guilty pleasures and late-night cravings. The atmosphere is casual, cozy, and welcoming, making it an ideal spot for a quick visit whether you’re a local grabbing a treat on your way home or a tourist who’s heard about its iconic status. The store’s authentic, old-school feel is a breath of fresh air in a city that is constantly changing. The friendly staff, who share in Ray's warm spirit, are always ready to help you navigate the vast menu and might even encourage you to try a classic New York treat you haven’t had before. It’s the kind of place that creates a sense of community, a testament to the idea that a simple, honest business can become a cornerstone of a neighborhood.

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### Location and Accessibility

Ray's Candy Store is situated at 113 Avenue A, New York, NY 10009, USA, placing it firmly in the heart of the East Village, near Tompkins Square Park. This area is known for its energetic street life and eclectic mix of bars, restaurants, and shops. The store is easily accessible by public transportation, with numerous subway and bus lines serving the neighborhood. While street parking can be challenging, the store is designed for a quick visit, whether you’re walking by or stopping in specifically for a treat.

A key feature of the store's accessibility is its wheelchair-accessible entrance, ensuring that all customers can enter and experience this unique establishment. The store’s layout is a grab-and-go format, perfect for a quick stop, and its focus on being open 24/7 means it’s always there when you need a sweet treat, a hot dog, or just a little bit of old-school New York charm, no matter the time of day.

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### Services Offered

Ray's Candy Store provides a variety of service options to cater to its diverse clientele, from locals to late-night adventurers. The services are straightforward and convenient, reflecting the store’s no-frills, customer-first approach:

• In-store Shopping: The classic experience, where you can walk up to the counter, see the extensive menu displayed on paper plates, and interact with the staff.
• Takeout: All items are prepared for easy takeout, making it simple to grab your food and go.
• Delivery: For those who can't make it to Avenue A, Ray's offers delivery services, including no-contact delivery, to bring their popular items right to your door.
• In-store Pickup: Customers can place an order and pick it up at their convenience.
• Onsite Services: The store’s 24/7 operation is one of its most defining features, making it a reliable spot for food and dessert any time of day or night.

The flexibility of these services, combined with the convenience of their operating hours and acceptance of credit cards, debit cards, and NFC mobile payments, makes Ray's Candy Store a practical and beloved choice for a wide range of needs.

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### Features and Highlights

What sets Ray's Candy Store apart is not just its food but its one-of-a-kind character and unique highlights:

• The Owner, Ray: The heart and soul of the store. Ray Alvarez, a nonagenarian who is often at the counter, is a legendary figure known for his friendly demeanor and incredible work ethic. Meeting him is a highlight for many visitors.
• Nostalgic Atmosphere: The store’s chaotic, old-school aesthetic, with its handwritten menus and a vast collection of items, gives it a unique, authentic feel that is a rare find in modern New York.
• Great Desserts: Despite the wide range of food, the desserts are the main draw. The soft-serve ice cream, milkshakes, and, most famously, the deep-fried Oreos and beignets are huge crowd-pleasers.
• The Egg Cream: A quintessential New York treat, the egg cream at Ray's is a must-try. Made with milk, seltzer, and chocolate syrup, it’s a refreshing and classic drink that has no actual egg or cream.
• 24/7 Operation: As an institution that never closes, Ray's is a go-to spot for late-night food and sweets, serving everyone from college students to shift workers and late-night revelers.
• Expansive Menu: From hot dogs and nachos to popcorn shrimp and fried Oreos, the menu is surprisingly vast for such a small space, catering to nearly any craving.

These features create a special experience that has cemented Ray’s Candy Store as a beloved New York landmark.

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### What is Worth Choosing?

Given the extensive menu at Ray's Candy Store, it can be hard to know where to begin. For first-time visitors, there are a few absolute must-tries that capture the spirit of the place. The Egg Cream is a classic New York beverage and a perfect introduction to the store's nostalgic offerings. It's a simple, foamy, and delicious drink that has been a favorite for generations. Another iconic choice is the Deep-Fried Oreos. These are a sensation among customers, praised for their crispy exterior and warm, melted interior. They are the epitome of "fair-style" dessert and a true indulgence.

Beyond the highlights, the Soft Serve Ice Cream is another popular choice. Customers love the classic chocolate-vanilla twist and note that it's a great value for the generous portion size. If you're looking for something savory, the store offers a range of fast-food items. The hot dogs and chili cheese dogs are a solid choice for a quick, satisfying bite, and their Belgian Fries are highly rated. Other popular items to consider include the Beignets, which are a fluffy and sweet treat, and the Milkshakes, which come in a variety of classic flavors like Oreo and Nutella. For those with a more adventurous palate, the deep-fried Reese's Peanut Butter Cups and fried bananas are also worth exploring.

Ultimately, a visit to Ray’s is about more than just one item; it's about the experience of stepping into a piece of New York’s living history and enjoying a simple, delicious treat made by a true legend. The best choice is to simply let your cravings guide you and enjoy the moment.

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### Contact Information

To plan your visit or place an order, you can contact Ray's Candy Store using the details below. They accept major credit cards, debit cards, and NFC mobile payments for your convenience.

• Address: 113 Avenue A, New York, NY 10009, USA

A visit to Ray's Candy Store is a memorable experience that captures the heart and soul of the East Village. With its great desserts, legendary owner, and charmingly nostalgic atmosphere, it is a destination that truly stands the test of time.

Ray's Candy Store

113 Avenue A, New York, NY 10009, USA