Dewar's Candy Shop
| Company type | Private |
|---|---|
| Industry | Confectionery, Ice cream |
| Founded | 1909 |
| Founder | James H. Dewar, George Dewar |
| Headquarters | Bakersfield , United States |
| Products | Ice cream, taffy chews, chocolates, confections |
Dewar's Candy Shop is a family-owned establishment specializing in ice cream and confections, situated in Bakersfield, California. Since 1930, it has operated opposite Bakersfield High School. Established in 1909, the shop is known for its ice cream, taffy chews, chocolates, and a variety of other sweets.
History
The business was launched in 1909 by brothers James H. Dewar and George Dewar, who hailed from Kansas. Their original location was at 1665 Chester Avenue in Bakersfield. Early on, they created popular peanut butter taffy and introduced peppermint taffies by 1911. Eventually, James acquired full ownership by purchasing George's stake and moved the store to 948 Baker Street. The family briefly extended their operations to Ventura, California, in 1928 but soon returned to Bakersfield, establishing the present-day site at 1120 Eye Street in 1930. It was during this period that ice cream production became part of the shop’s offerings.
In 1947, management transitioned to James' son, James A. Dewar, alongside his brother Joe Dewar. Leadership shifted again in 1977 when James A.’s son George assumed control while Michael, another family member, began managing the taffy production.
Business Expansion
Heather, Michael’s daughter, further grew Dewar's by opening a second location initially at 9530 Hageman Road, which moved to 2700 Calloway Drive in 2011. The following year saw the introduction of Dewar's Express, a drive-through service focused on ice cream. By 2019, the product range included a new Almond Butter taffy flavor and an assortment of 23 ice cream varieties such as English Toffee, maple nut, and peanut butter fudge.
From the 2010s onward, Dewar's has organized the annual "Cupid's Challenge" fundraiser benefiting the Mendiburu Magic Foundation, strengthening its ties with the local community and enhancing brand presence.
Recognition
By 2005, Dewar's ice cream was available at Disney’s Soda Fountain and Studio Store located in Hollywood. Esteemed food critic Jonathan Gold lauded Dewar's in 2011 as California’s finest traditional soda fountain experience. The company’s signature taffy chews and overall brand have been featured on the Food Network and highlighted in Bon Appetit’s "Highly Recommend" section. Additionally, a framed endorsement from football legend Frank Gifford displayed at the shop attests to the loyal following for their peanut butter taffies.