Aji Ichiban NYC – Chinatown
37 Mott Street at Pell Street
This Hong Kong-based chain sells an exotic mix of snacks and sweets from Japan and other East Asian countries. The aisles are filled with overflowing bins of ginger candies, preserved fruit, salty candy and traditional Asian snacks like Japanese Crispy Seaweed with Tom Yum Goong Flavor. If it's a tad too exotic for your sugar monster, Aji Ichiban also sells American treats. Don't try to navigate this place with a stroller: The aisles are tight and it's often crowded. Once you've had your fill, explore other kid-friendly spots in Chinatown.

Papabubble New York – Soho
380 Broome Street between Mulberry and Mott Streets
You can watch the treats being made at Papabubble, a Barcelona-based gourmet confectioner. As such, the spot seems less like a candy shop and more akin to a sweets science lab, with beakers full of colorful liquids, Popsicle sticks and various tools displayed on shelves. The handmade suckers and lollipops come in traditional flavors like strawberry and cherry and more exotic choices like cola and Bergamot orange. Every one is decorated with tiny designs like fruit, hearts or the name of your favorite borough. The candy rings are usually a huge hit with kids!

Slodycze Wedel – Greenpoint
772 Manhattan Avenue near Meserole Avenue
For chocoholics, nothing beats this Polish mainstay in Greenpoint. You'll find assorted boxed chocolates and gift baskets perfect for presents. Sample the marzipan, chocolate truffles or chocolate-covered fruits and nuts. Most of the candies are in Polish candy packing, so you may not be able to decipher what's inside, but the surprise is a big part of the fun. Note: The shop only accepts cash.

Sockerbit – West Village
89 Christopher Street near Bleecker Street
With colorful candies displayed against a pristine white interior, this sleek Swedish candy store has that minimalist Ikea feel. The name means sugar cube in Swedish and you'll find a smorgasbord of treats like sour gummies, hard candies, licorice chocolates, nougat and marshmallows, all with names like fruktstång, gelehallon and huggormar. They're all yummier than they sound.