Three Generations of Chocolate Making
The Robinson family story began with James K. Robinson, who first learned the art of candy making in 1928 while apprenticing with the Whitman Company in Philadelphia. Throughout his career, he perfected traditional chocolate-making techniques and developed many of the recipes that continue to be enjoyed today.
Years later, while visiting his son Jim and daughter-in-law Nancy and their family in Skillman, James brought everything needed to make one of Philadelphia's favorite St. Patrick's Day treats—Irish Cinnamon Potatoes. As three generations gathered around the kitchen making candy together, he turned to his granddaughters with a simple question:
"Wouldn't it be fun to have your own candy store?"
That conversation inspired a dream that became Robinson's Chocolates.
The very next day, James and his son Jim began searching for the perfect location. Recognizing that traditional candy making was becoming a disappearing craft, Jim and his wife Nancy decided to preserve those family recipes and share them with their community. Jim learned every recipe directly from his father—from rich vanilla butter creams and flavorful caramels to handcrafted fudge and chocolate confections—while Nancy quickly became the heart of the business, managing the day-to-day operations.
In January 1979, Robinson's Chocolates opened its doors in the Montgomery Shopping Center, where it quickly became a beloved destination for handmade chocolates throughout Central New Jersey.
Honoring Tradition, Growing the Future
Today, Jim Robinson continues to make chocolates using the same time-honored recipes and techniques that have been passed down through generations. Working side by side with his daughter, Pattie Robinson, he has shared not only the recipes, but the care, patience, and craftsmanship behind them. Pattie continues to learn alongside her dad, helping ensure that Robinson’s handmade chocolate traditions can be carried forward for generations to come.
Together, Jim and Pattie blend tradition with innovation. While Jim continues crafting many of Robinson’s signature chocolates, Pattie has helped guide the business into its next chapter with a refreshed brand, new chocolate creations including wine-infused chocolates, expanded gift offerings, and the opening of a second Robinson’s Chocolates location in Hillsborough, New Jersey.
Although the business continues to evolve, one thing remains unchanged: every piece of chocolate is made with the same commitment to quality, craftsmanship, and family tradition that has defined Robinson’s Chocolates since 1979.
Skillman Store
(609) 924-1124
1325 Route 206 &
Montgomery Shopping Center
Skillman, NJ 08558
We ship anywhere in the US and deliver locally
Hillsborough Store
(609) 955-8509
(Shoppes at Woods Tavern)
438 US 206, Suite 9B
Hillsborough, NJ 08844