To say Paul Rudd is a true national treasure would be an understatement, and besides his sweet acting skills he’s also got a sweet secret: he owns an adorable candy shop in upstate New York, and it’s only two hours from NYC!
Samuel’s Sweet Shop can be found in Rhinebeck, NY–one of the most beautiful small towns near NYC–and it offers a cornucopia of deliciously sweet treats.
It was even named one of the best candy shops in the country by USA TODAY in 2023!
The beloved neighborhood candy shop is co-owned by actors Paul Rudd and Jeffrey Dean Morgan, along with their wives and a third couple, who took over ownership of the store to save it from closing after the original owner, Ira Gutner, passed away in 2014.
In 1994 Gutner had packed his bags and left a successful career in New York City’s Garment District to move upstate and open Samuel’s. He named it after his late Uncle Sam who introduced him as a boy to penny candy.
Rudd and Morgan had been longtime customers of the candy store prior to the owner’s passing.
As for the goodies, you can satisfy your sweet tooth with wooden shelves lined with baskets and jars stocked with everything from handcrafted chocolate to classic candies to baked goods. They even serve coffee and tea!
If you’re not sure what to get we suggest trying the Clodhoppers, or chocolate-covered pretzels and graham crackers with peanut butter, which is one of Rudd’s favorites.
According to Poughkeepsie Journal, Samuel’s regulars enjoy the shop’s “nice hometown feel.”
Local Hyman-Rouse told the publication, “Everybody knows your name. The coffee’s great and it’s wonderful to see what’s happening with the store in terms of getting support and a lot of attention.”
Samuel’s Sweet Shop is currently run by John Traver who started his career at the candy shop many years ago when he was fifteen years old. He’s now a partner in the business.
Until you’re able to make it to Samuel’s Sweet Shop yourself, you can order their goodies online here!
📍 42 East Market Street Rhinebeck, NY 12572