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A Sweeter City by the Sea: Anchor Toffee Opens Flagship Store at Bowen’s Wharf

When two people put all their love into creating a signature blend of sweetness, then add a dash of family history of c andy-creation, the end result is a gift. A crafty, delicious, healthy, gift.
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Anchor Toffee is this gift to Newport, the City-by-the-Sea. Owners Katie and Peter Kelly just opened their first retail location at Bowen’s Wharf, the historic waterfront shopping & dining district known as the Anchor of Newport.

nThey use no preservatives or emulsifiers. Almonds are a low-calorie nut, and have more calcium than other nuts. Naturally vegan & gluten-free Anchor Toffee is a culinary success story for Rhode Isl and and we welcome the Kelly’s for the journey.
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n“Being here is a dream come true. I’m on the water, the door is open, fresh air and new faces streaming in. I’m at Bowen’s Wharf, doing what I love,” says Katie.
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nAnd what she loves, is selling sweets. Their signature Almond Butter Toffee is h and-crafted in small batches with the best ingredients: Almonds, sweet cream butter, pure sugar, salt and Guittard’s dark chocolate. “Peter skillfully pilots the toffee through the kettle then pours it. It’s a nautical process,”she adds.
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nWhat Peter loves, is making c andy. He’s had c andy businesses in upstate New York and in Arizona. They’ve been in business together since 2014, selling online and to select retailers, newly including Mario Batali’s Eataly. The couple cultivated their collaborative c andy-making in Warren, RI through the Hope & Main Culinary Incubator Program. The program helps local entrepreneurs jump-start early-stage food companies like Anchor Toffee.

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nSince opening the shop they’ve embarked on two tasty collaborations: One with Popette of Pendulum, headed by a RISD graudate and based in Pawtucket, RI. They create all-natural hard c andy from organic, plant-based, seasonal and responsible ingredients. In Anchor Toffee’s store are displayed an adorable assortment of espresso drops, root beer drops, berry drops & strawberry pops.
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nA newer crew member is Newport Sea Salt, a veteran-owned artsinal sea salt company. A few flakes of this reef-to-table sea salt enhances the flavor of any dish, but especially the Anchor Toffee br and of caramel. “Make your own Newport Salted Caramel sauce, enjoy it this summer drizzled over ice cream,” suggests Peter.
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n”The balance of sweet and salty is a true New Engl and treasure. We love to make people happy,” reiterates Katie when showing their custom truffle favors for weddings, christenings, baby showers, thank you and housewarming gifts. Toffee, truffles and favors are carefully packaged and make for excellent take-along treats on boat rides.
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nNext door neighor in an 18th Century Wharf building is Newport Scrimsh anders. In business here for over 25 years the resident artist, Brian Kiracofe features carvings done in bone and ivory. Across from the shops is Newport Fruit, Smoothie, & Creperie and mere melting distance away is Sprinkles Ice Cream.
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nHaving a special event? Celebrate on a sail or motor yacht through one of Bowen’s Wharf numerous water tour operators. When you’re ready to drop anchor, grab a perfectly imperfect nibble from locally owned & newly opened Anchor Toffee. Won’t stick to your teeth, but the nutty, sweet fix will fortify you for any voyage.
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nBowen’s Wharf historic waterfront property features over 30 shops, galleries, restaurants, water tours, options for heritage tourism throughout Newport County and a full-service marina. Upcoming events are online. Tour tickets & more at the Bowen’s Wharf Pilot House, 45 America’s Cup Avenue, Newport, RI. 401-849-3478