Family, Sweetness, and Smiles: Kilwins Ocean City Named ‘Best of the Press’

Kilwins Ocean City, the beloved destination for handcrafted confections, has officially been named a recipient of the three esteemed “Best of the Press” awards. Kilwins Ocean City received Best of the Press Gold – Best Candy Store and Best Gift Baskets, and Best of the Press Silver for Best Ice Cream. For owners John and Dian Dabek and their son, Dave, this award is a testament to their simple, driving mission: “to create enjoyment and make people happy”.

The Kilwins experience has been delighting guests across America since 1947. It arrived in Ocean City in July 2024, setting up shop right in the heart of town at the corner of 8th Street and Wesley Avenue. From the moment guests step inside, they are greeted by the scent of freshly made waffle cones, fudge, and an assortment of other decadent homemade treats.  Open year-round, these aromas welcome strollers downtown on a summer afternoon and comfort those enjoying a cozy winter day by the shore.

 Kilwins Ocean City is truly a family endeavor. Every role is defined by dedication and a shared purpose. John Dabek oversees the business side, Dian Dabek adds her creative touch to the guest experience, and Dave Dabek manages the day-to-day operations with care and enthusiasm. Their collective goal is to ensure every visit “feels like coming home to family.” This family atmosphere extends to their team, which grows each summer to 25 smiling faces. Their interactions are guided by one of the store’s core values: “Treat Others as You Want to Be Treated”.

For the Dabeks, the business is deeply personal. They are honored to serve not only the many visitors who make Ocean City their home away from home but especially their cherished local community. Their commitment to the local community goes beyond a warm smile and genuine hospitality inside the shop. Kilwins Ocean City prioritizes giving back. The team is frequently out and about, contributing generously to many local fundraisers and Ocean City’s many beloved events, spreading a little extra “Happy” wherever they go.

 The “Best of the Press” award highlights the exceptional quality found in every treat. Nearly everything offered is made right in the store. When it comes to candy, their fudge is a standout. Unlike other businesses that make Pan Fudge, Kilwins is proud to paddle their fudge on a marble table and then loaf it. The paddling on a cold marble table enhances the taste and gives it a smooth, creamy texture.

Equally beloved is their Caramel Popcorn, which is coated in a signature copper-kettle caramel made using an Original Recipe developed by Don Kilwin. This process results in a caramel that is smooth, creamy, and has just the right amount of ‘chew’.

Who could forget Kilwins’ exclusive, in-house-made Heritage Chocolate? Known for its smooth, decadent taste, it is considered by many as second to none.

Kilwin’s Ocean City also proudly serves Kilwin’s super-premium Original Recipe Ice Cream, known for its creamy consistency and rich, indulgent flavor. You’ll find something for every craving, from Dian’s favorite, the Sea Salt Caramel, to Dave’s beloved Marshmallow S’more, and John’s preference, the Fudgie Brownie.

The Dabeks summarize their mission simply: “Every product is made with care, quality, and a touch of happiness, all with one purpose in mind: to make people ‘Happy.’ From our kitchen to your cone, we’re proud to bring the timeless joy of Kilwins to Ocean City, one delicious moment at a time”.

The “Best of the Press” awards solidify Kilwins Ocean City as a family-first, community-focused business, offering a one-of-a-kind, magical experience where sweetness is always made fresh