Sampling: Littlejohn's

A 'carmel' apple a day... (Credit: Shannon Shih)

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That naughty Hermione costume or “300” Spartan loincloth may be set and ready to go, but it wouldn’t be a proper Halloween without some serious calorie consumption. And for this holiday, that should come solely in the form of candy. We don’t mean those puny little boxes of Milk Duds or grody bags of candy corn, either. Now that you’re all grown, your tastebuds undoubtedly need something worthy of a food sophisticate, no?

Littlejohn’s in the Original Farmers’ Market is home to some of the best candy in L.A. The stand has been in the same spot for more than 60 years, and every owner has been an apprenticed and trained candy maker.  It’s an old-fashioned place focusing on chocolate and caramel—which is purposefully spelled “carmel” at Littlejohn’s. (Ask an employee the cute reason why.) No matter; the golden candy is rich and exquisite. Here are more of our favorites:

English toffee: This may be the nectar of life, the fountain of youth and manna from heaven all rolled into one. Then, topped with almonds. A similar grocery product is called Almond Roca, but that’s the salmon roe to Littlejohn’s English toffee caviar. It’s buttery, it’s sweet, it’s salty. It’s a reason to turn off the porch light and pretend you’re not home. There’s no way in hell you’d want to share this with any trick-or-treater.

Coconut roll: It is described as “like a Mounds bar.” But the coconut roll is only tangentially related to those measly morsels from the Peter Paul company. While the outer shell is also dark chocolate, the filling is a rich buttercream, a composition more sophisticated than the gooey shredded coconut. Think of this luscious version as a giant bonbon.

Caramel-covered marshmallow: Fresh marshmallows are different creatures from those mass-produced jet puffs. At Littlejohn’s, they are tiny, delicious clouds with a hint of vanilla. These perfect bites come covered in “carmel.” Called Marshmallow Delight, the name is a severe understatement. Just don’t get the chocolate-caramel blend—that’s a perfect example of too much of a good thing.

Candied apple: Junked-up, good-for-you produce at its finest. While other purveyors—think Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory—pile on chocolate, crushed peppermint pieces, M&Ms and everything else in the pantry, Littlejohn’s keeps its apples classic. Here Granny Smiths are cloaked in caramel, and just caramel. If the candy maker is feeling fancy, some crushed almonds will provide a crunchy coat, but these are inexpensive, simple desserts. Be sure to get one for everybody, or endure the tears and recriminations.

It’s hard to go wrong at Littlejohn’s. Everything is a classic yet elegant execution on candy standards. During the holiday season, fruit chews and hard candies are available, although they’re not house made. Try the chocolate-dipped pineapple slices and figs, because they’re difficult to find elsewhere. But we won’t blame you for going back to the English toffee. We’re right there with you.

Katherine Spiers is contributing editor for Metromix Los Angeles.

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