© Jeff Kida

CERRETA'S

"If your sweet tooth says candy, your wisdom tooth says Cerreta's." That's the motto at Cerreta's Fine Chocolates, which has been an Arizona institution since 1968. Though the chocolate factory originated in Phoenix, it moved to its current location in Old Town Glendale 23 years ago. Jennifer Cerreta explains the secrets behind the sweets.

Is there one item that flies off the shelves?
Our French mint is our signature piece. We produce around 3,000 pounds a day. It's so popular, we can't even inventory it. We're also known for other chocolates and some of our brittles.

What product speaks to Cerreta's Arizona heritage?
We offer a beautiful box that has assorted chocolates in it. The pieces are shaped like cowboy boots and cactuses. The packaging is also Western-themed, so when you pair it with the little chocolates, it makes for a nice souvenir gift. It's also popular as a gift for convention guests.

Factory tours are popular among families. How is your family working to ensure that Cerreta's remains an iconic Arizona brand?
Right now, there are three generations of Cerretas working at the factory, and as many as four generations have been here at once. Everything is made right here in Glendale, and that's how we'll keep it.

— Kelly Vaughn Kramer

Cerreta's is located at 5345 W. Glendale Avenue in Glendale. For more information, call 623-930-1000 or visit www.cerreta.com.

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