Best Candy Stores Around Seattle, Bellevue and the Eastside

Located along trendy Ballard Avenue, cozy Sweet Mickey’s has the welcoming feel of a neighborhood hangout. Named after owner Randy Brinker’s Southern grandmother, the quaint mint-striped space keeps the fuss factor low and the spotlight on the candy. There’s an impressive array of licorice — a nod to the ‘hood’s Scandinavian roots — nostalgic penny candy, saltwater taffy, artisan caramels and decadent house-made fudge. (Parents, don’t miss the dark chocolate sea salt caramel version).

Play pit stop: Burn off that sugar at newer Ballard playgrounds Gilman Playground or Webster Park; one of these makes for a perfect pairing with a tasty treat.

Editor’s note: This article was first published several years ago and was most recently update in January 2024.