At Romolo Chocolates, the Stefanelli family chocolatiers and a fantastic team have been crafting chocolates, confections and desserts since 1994. Tony Stefanelli, founder and certified master confectioner, has been making and seeking knowledge about candy for more than 48 years, apprenticing under his grandfather Romolo Stefanelli at the start of his career. Roman Stefanelli is the family’s most prodigious confectioner, perfecting the art of Grandpa Romolo’s Famous Sponge Candy.
The Cocoa Café team has been crafting great espresso, cookies, ice cream and desserts since opening after a 2004 move and expansion, the same year Tony was named one of only 26 Master Confectioners in the United States. Romolo Chocolates and their desserts continue to win local and regional awards.
The West 8th Street location is three stores in one: a chocolate shop, a gift shop and a café. Visitors can enjoy the theater-style open retails, giving them a peek into chocolate packaging, baking and more while they shop or sit and enjoy our drinks and sweet treats.
Open until 9 p.m. every day of Erie’s beautiful summers, Romolo Chocolates is a must-stop destination for Erie natives and tourists alike. Just off the northern-most point of Interstate 79 where it meets Lake Erie (and close to Presque Isle State Park), the 25,000-square-foot destination spot includes a beautiful outdoor patio with umbrella-covered seating, flowered spaces and light music.
Giving is the Founder’s Core Value in Romolo Chocolates’ culture. The company continues to donate time, sweets and financial support to local charities and community events, with special love given to the Mercy Center for Women, our local animal shelters and the good work of Second Harvest Food Bank and the Sisters of Saint Joseph.
Proud to be Erie’s homegrown desserts.
