New Business Spotlight: Kilwins Chocolates

Kilwins opened its Deer Park Avenue doors on Saturday to a lot of anticipation among locals, who lined up to try specialty fudge, chocolates and ice cream. Wantagh's John Murray III bought the corner storefront that formerly housed Young Imaginations toy store last fall and has since overseen an inside and out transformation. Babylon's location is the first New York outpost of the franchised chain, based in Michigan, which also has a strong presence in Florida, which is where Murray first encountered Kilwins.

"I got involved with Kilwins by frequenting their stores in South Florida while on vacation with my family. I love Kilwins. There really is almost a magic to it that hits you the minute you walk in," Murray explained.

The choice to open in Babylon Village was also an easy one for Murray, who previously worked as a bookkeeper and human resources manager for a large hospitality organization: "For years I have always known that Babylon Village was a special place. It is a town residents, village employees, and elected officials take much pride in. Beyond that, from a business standpoint, the village strongly supports its businesses. The people are friendly and everyone seems to know everyone. "

On opening day, local residents and visitors from nearby towns lingered outside, enjoying waffle cones of the limited edition salted caramel flavor, or tasted the varieties of fudge made on premises, in an open area where patrons can watch employees at work.

Although Murray is joining a downtown with several other ice cream shops and bakeries, he believes there is room for one more in a town that's seen substantial growth in restaurants and nightlife.

"My hope is that our addition to the village will draw in more people to patronize all the businesses. I believe the village is well positioned to become a major destination. Many exciting businesses are already open with more to come. It's very exciting," he said.

Also exciting to patrons, judging by the steady business of opening weekend, was the prospect of trying the newest sweets in town. Murray hopes to scoop enough ice cream to one day relocate with his wife Lauren to Babylon.

Hours are Sunday through Thursday from 11 a.m. until 10 p.m. and until 11 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. Kilwins Chocolates is located at 130 Deer Park Avenue.