Ray's Candy Store

Ray's Candy Store storefront, circa June 2019

Ray Alvarez

Rayalvarez

Raycandycrepes

RaysCandyOutside

Ray's Candy Store is a historic diner and confectionery shop located in the East Village neighborhood of Manhattan, New York City. Since its opening in 1974 by Ray Alvarez, the store has become a beloved institution, known for its wide array of sweets, fried foods, and especially its egg creams and soft serve ice cream. Ray's Candy Store has not only served the local community for decades but has also become a cultural landmark, attracting visitors from all over the world.

History[edit | edit source]

Ray's Candy Store was founded by Asghar Ghahraman, who later changed his name to Ray Alvarez, in 1974. Alvarez, an immigrant from Iran, purchased the store with the dream of creating a place where people from all walks of life could enjoy simple, delicious treats. Over the years, Ray's has witnessed the many changes in the East Village, from the punk rock era of the 1970s and 1980s to the gentrification of the neighborhood in the 2000s. Despite these changes, Ray's has remained a constant, serving its classic menu items to a loyal and diverse clientele.

Menu[edit | edit source]

The menu at Ray's Candy Store features a variety of classic American snacks and desserts. Notable items include egg creams, a traditional New York beverage made with milk, carbonated water, and chocolate or vanilla syrup; soft serve ice cream in various flavors; and deep-fried treats such as French fries, onion rings, and beignets. Ray's is also famous for its milkshakes, hot dogs, and late-night comfort foods, catering to the diverse tastes of its customers.

Cultural Significance[edit | edit source]

Ray's Candy Store has been featured in numerous media outlets and has become a symbol of the enduring spirit of the East Village. It represents a bygone era of New York City, where small, independently owned businesses thrived in close-knit communities. The store's resilience, particularly its survival through economic downturns, natural disasters, and the challenges of gentrification, has endeared it to many as a symbol of perseverance and community support. Ray Alvarez himself has become a local celebrity, known for his generosity and dedication to the neighborhood.

Preservation Efforts[edit | edit source]

In recent years, there have been efforts to preserve Ray's Candy Store as a historic landmark. These efforts highlight the importance of the store not just as a business, but as a cultural and community asset that contributes to the unique character of the East Village. Supporters argue that places like Ray's are essential to maintaining the diversity and vibrancy of New York City's neighborhoods.