TLDR
Nostalgic NYC institution famous for classic egg creams, traditional milkshakes, and iconic soft serve. A legendary East Village spot for budget-friendly, old-school American snacks.
Details
A quintessential East Village institution, this beloved spot is celebrated for its nostalgic American comfort foods and long-standing history of serving classic treats [5]. Visitors frequently make the pilgrimage for its legendary egg creams, traditional milkshakes, and high-quality soft serve [5], [11], [13], [19]. Despite its humble appearance, it remains a favorite for budget-friendly snacks like chili cheese dogs [22] and fries that many locals consider the definitive version in the city [4].
Food Overview
The menu focuses on classic American comfort items, most notably the egg creams, which have been served for decades [5]. Highly recommended options include their traditional chocolate milkshakes [13], strawberry soft serve [11], and chili cheese dogs [22]. Fries are also frequently cited by visitors as a top-tier choice [4].
Customer Sentiment
The overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with locals and food enthusiasts consistently praising the shop's nostalgic menu and enduring status as a city institution [4], [11], [13]. While some minor concerns regarding staff cleaning habits have been mentioned, loyal patrons often remain unfazed by such details given the shop's character [15], [16].
Reddit Opinions & Reviews
Top Reddit Posts About RAY'S CANDY STORE
Recent Reddit Mentions
From post: Recent Eats RincóN Melania Johns Corner Bistro
"The author highlights the affordability of their savory snacks, specifically the chili cheese dog."
PositiveFrom post: Where Are The Best Milkshakes In Nyc Right Now
"This user listed Ray's in the East Village as a place with good milkshakes."
PositiveFrom post: Where Are The Best Milkshakes In Nyc Right Now
"Responding to a comment about Ray's, this user reminisced about going there for their excellent soft serve, comparing it favorably to Mr. Softee."
PositiveFrom post: Where Are The Best Milkshakes In Nyc Right Now
"This user recommended Ray's for its nostalgic value when it comes to milkshakes."
PositiveFrom post: Where Are The Best Milkshakes In Nyc Right Now
"This user mentioned Ray's Candy Shop in the East Village for their milkshakes and possibly egg creams, though they haven't personally tried the egg creams."
PositiveFrom post: Best Chocolate Milkshakes In Nyc
"Expresses gratitude for the reminder about Ray's and Lexington Candy Store."
PositiveFrom post: Best Chocolate Milkshakes In Nyc
"Responding to concerns about cleaning habits, this user states they are unbothered by such issues given their long-term residency in the neighborhood."
NeutralFrom post: Best Chocolate Milkshakes In Nyc
"Mentions that while Ray's excels operationally, there might be concerns about the cleaning habits of some staff, though this hasn't stopped their own consumption."
NeutralFrom post: Best Chocolate Milkshakes In Nyc
"Agrees that Ray's is great for a traditional milkshake."
PositiveFrom post: Best Chocolate Milkshakes In Nyc
"This user recommends Ray's for a traditional chocolate milkshake, distinct from overly elaborate modern concoctions."
PositiveFrom post: Iconic Foods In Nyc
"The original poster acknowledges the recommendation for egg creams at Ray's Candy Store."
NeutralFrom post: Iconic Foods In Nyc
"The original poster acknowledges the recommendation for egg creams at Ray's Candy Store."
NeutralFrom post: Iconic Foods In Nyc
"Mentions Ray's Candy Store as an institution that has served egg creams for decades."
PositiveFrom post: Iconic Foods In Nyc
"Mentions Ray's Candy Store as an institution that has served egg creams for decades."
PositiveFrom post: Iconic Foods In Nyc
"This commenter has been meaning to visit Ray's Candy Store in Alphabet City, having heard they make great egg creams."
NeutralFrom post: Iconic Foods In Nyc
"This commenter has been meaning to visit Ray's Candy Store in Alphabet City, having heard they make great egg creams."
NeutralFrom post: Where To Find Strawberry Soft Serve In Nyc
"This user agrees that Ray's is excellent and plans to try the strawberry soft serve next."
PositiveFrom post: Where To Find Strawberry Soft Serve In Nyc
"This user recommends Ray's for its strawberry soft serve, calling it an East Village institution and the best."
PositiveFrom post: Best French Fries Specific Style
"Ray's Candy Store on Ave A is stated to be the correct answer for the described fries."
PositiveFrom post: Psa Legendary Midtown Hot Dog Vendor Famous Eddie
"This commenter asks about the retirement plans of Ray from Ray's Candy Store, drawing a parallel to the news of Famous Eddie's retirement."
Neutral