The day fudge got a soundtrack.
Before PCs, the internet and cell phones, a little shop on North Carolina’s Outer Banks changed fudge forever.
It looked like a fudge shop. It sure didn’t sound like one.
In 1980, A.C. Marshall opened the world’s first Fudgery. It had the copper kettles and marble slabs of a classic candy kitchen — but with a big brass bell ringing, “Papa Fudge” lured beach-goers inside with a mix of singing, showmanship and the best fudge around.
He called it “interactive retail.” Everyone else called it fun. That secret ingredient — plus a first-rate fudge — has kept the show running for decades, as the company added caramel apples, ice cream and milkshakes to the mix.
Never underestimate the value of having a good product. There are no shortcuts, and we use only the very best ingredients: pure vanilla, the purest chocolate, and a time-tested process.
— A.C. “Papa Fudge” Marshall, Founder
A sweet history
The first Fudgery
A.C. Marshall opens the world’s first Fudgery on the Outer Banks of North Carolina — and the singing starts.
From fudge counter to the charts
R&B group Dru Hill gets its start singing at a Baltimore Fudgery, later performing their routine on national TV. Sisqo goes on to stardom in music and movies.
Papa Fudge, cover star
Papa Fudge begins starring in a new themed character ad each year in the Sunny Day Guide — a beloved tradition.
Apples, ice cream & shakes
Gourmet caramel apples, hand-dipped ice cream in handcrafted waffle cones, and old-fashioned milkshakes join the lineup.
18 shops and counting
From Pier 39 to the French Quarter, The Fudgery is still making it fresh, daily — and still singing.
The many faces of Papa Fudge
For years, Papa Fudge advertised in the Sunny Day Guide with a new theme and character every year. Here are a few classics that still make us smile. Tap to enlarge.
1997
1998
1999
2000
2001
2002
2006
2007
2009
2010Off-Broadway. Way off.
Our team members stir, turn and fold the fudge into a long loaf — and do a lot more than whistle while they work. They’re famous for “fudging” show tunes and coaxing smiles from every crowd.
Audition for the team