Sanders Chocolate & Ice Cream Shoppe - Rochester

For us, the residents of Michigan, the name "Sanders" conjures up images of rich, decadent chocolates, iconic Bumpy Cakes, and a sweet heritage that stretches back well over a century. And nestled in the charming heart of downtown Rochester, the Sanders Chocolate & Ice Cream Shoppe offers a delightful opportunity to experience this cherished Michigan tradition firsthand. It’s more than just an ice cream shop; it’s a portal to a bygone era of confectionery excellence, perfectly blended with modern-day sweet cravings.

As Michiganders, we appreciate businesses with deep roots in our state’s history, and Sanders has been a part of our collective sweet tooth since 1875. This Rochester location brings that rich legacy to life, inviting visitors to step into a world where the aroma of fresh chocolate and waffle cones fills the air. It’s a place where you can find both the timeless classics that have made Sanders famous and a fantastic selection of ice cream treats to cool off on a warm Michigan day.

Whether you're primarily "coming for Ice cream after dinner" or looking for "chocolate laden gifts," this "really nice shop" in downtown Rochester promises an experience that is both indulgent and authentically Michigan. While individual taste can vary, as with the "lavender honey ice cream" that wasn't a hit for one reviewer, the overwhelming sentiment leans towards "amazing treats and goodies." Let's discover what makes Sanders Chocolate & Ice Cream Shoppe a must-visit for anyone in the Michigan region.

Sanders Chocolate & Ice Cream Shoppe is ideally located at 436 S Main St, Rochester, MI 48307, USA. This address places it squarely in the vibrant and picturesque downtown area of Rochester, a highly desirable destination for Michiganders seeking a charming urban experience.

Downtown Rochester is renowned for its walkable streets, boutique shops, and diverse eateries, making Sanders a perfect complement to a day of exploration. For residents across Oakland County and beyond, reaching Rochester via major roads like M-59 or Rochester Road is straightforward. Once in downtown, the shop is easy to find on South Main Street.

Parking in downtown Rochester is generally available in several free parking lots provided by the city, often just a short walk from Main Street. This convenience is a significant advantage for us, the locals, ensuring a stress-free visit. The pedestrian-friendly nature of the area also means that visitors can easily stroll to Sanders after dining at a nearby restaurant or Browse other local businesses, integrating a sweet stop seamlessly into their Rochester experience.

• Ice Cream Scoops & Sundaes: Offering a wide variety of hard scoop ice cream flavors, including Michigan-made Guernsey ice cream. They serve single and double scoops in cups or cones. A highlight is their extensive sundae menu, featuring classics and signature creations.
• Hot Fudge Cream Puff: A signature Sanders classic. This popular dessert features vanilla ice cream nestled inside a cream puff shell, generously smothered with Sanders' famous hot fudge dessert topping.
• Specialty Sundaes: Beyond traditional sundaes, they offer unique creations like the Sea Salt Caramel Sundae (sea salt turtle ice cream with caramel topping and mini sea salt caramels), S'mores Sundae (chocolate marshmallow ice cream with marshmallow topping and graham cracker crumbs), Peanut Butter Block Party, Pecan Titan, Fairytale Sundae (Blue Moon ice cream with sprinkles and rock candy), and Lemon Custard Pie Sundae.
• Milkshakes & Malts: Hand-spun milkshakes and malts with various ice cream flavors, including specialty options like Peanut Butter Paradise and Creamsicle.
• Floats & Coolers: Classic ice cream floats made with your choice of soda and vanilla ice cream, and "Coolers" which blend soda with vanilla ice cream.
• Gourmet Chocolates & Confections: A vast selection of Sanders' renowned chocolates, including their famous Bumpy Cakes (chocolate, vanilla buttercream), chocolate-covered caramels, pecan clusters, sea salt caramels (including dairy-free options), peanut butter blocks, mini bites, and various chocolate bars. These are available in tubs, snack bags, and giftable boxes.
• Packaged Desserts & Toppings: Customers can purchase Sanders' famous hot fudge and classic caramel dessert toppings in jars to enjoy at home, as well as pre-packaged ice cream cartons (e.g., Guernsey vanilla, chocolate, Mackinac Peanut Butter Fudge) and bakery items like Bumpy Cakes.
• Hot & Cold Beverages: A selection of coffee drinks (espresso, lattes, iced lattes), gourmet hot cocoa (classic, dark chocolate, caramel), and "Coolishious" frozen beverages (Cocoa Coolishious, Coffee Coolishious).
• Baked Goods & Snacks: Beyond traditional sweets, they offer items like brownie brittle and various snack mixes with nuts and chocolates.
• Gift Options: With a wide array of packaged chocolates and dessert toppings, Sanders is an excellent spot for "chocolate laden gifts" for any occasion.

• A Michigan Institution Since 1875: Sanders has a rich history and is a beloved, long-standing Michigan brand. Visiting the shoppe connects patrons to this deep local heritage, offering a nostalgic and authentic experience.
• Signature Hot Fudge Cream Puff: This iconic dessert is a major draw and a "Sanders Classic!" It consistently receives high praise for its deliciousness, often described as "fantastic" and a must-try.
• Dual Focus on Ice Cream & Chocolates: Unlike many ice cream shops, Sanders equally excels in its confectionery offerings. The "good selection of chocolates and other confections" alongside a robust ice cream menu means there's something for every sweet tooth, whether you want a scoop or a box of gourmet chocolates.
• High-Quality Ice Cream (Guernsey): They serve Guernsey ice cream, a well-regarded Michigan brand, ensuring a high-quality, creamy product for their scoops and sundaes.
• Charming Downtown Rochester Location: The shoppe's setting in "downtown Rochester" is a significant highlight. It contributes to an enjoyable outing, allowing visitors to combine their sweet treat with Browse other local shops or dining.
• Pleasant Shop Atmosphere: Described as a "nice shop" and a bright, cheerful space, the interior is inviting and comfortable, suitable for families and individuals alike.
• Variety for Gifting: The "freezer / cooler section towards the back" with cakes and other packaged goodies makes it convenient for picking up desserts for events or "chocolate laden gifts."
• Gluten-Free Options Available: While not explicitly in the provided reviews, public information indicates the Rochester location can assist with gluten-free options, consulting a binder for those with sensitivities, showcasing their commitment to accommodating customer needs.

Address: 436 S Main St, Rochester, MI 48307, USA

Phone: (248) 656-2590

Mobile Phone: +1 248-656-2590

Current Operating Hours (as of August 2025):

• Monday - Saturday: 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM
• Sunday: 12:00 PM - 9:00 PM

It is always recommended to check their official website or social media channels for the most current hours, especially during holidays or for any seasonal changes.

For us, the Michiganders, Sanders Chocolate & Ice Cream Shoppe in downtown Rochester is more than just a place to get a sweet treat; it's an experience rooted in our state's rich history and a testament to enduring quality. As a brand that has been delighting palates since 1875, Sanders offers a unique blend of nostalgia and contemporary indulgence, making it a truly suitable spot for locals.

The star attraction for many is undoubtedly the "Hot Fudge Cream Puff," a decadent "fantastic" dessert that has become a local legend. But beyond this iconic item, the extensive selection of high-quality ice cream flavors (including Michigan's own Guernsey brand) and the impressive array of gourmet chocolates and confections ensure that every visit offers something new to discover or a beloved favorite to savor. It's a perfect destination for both a quick ice cream fix after dinner and for picking up thoughtful "chocolate laden gifts."

Its prime location in the vibrant and walkable downtown Rochester makes it incredibly accessible and an ideal stop during a leisurely day out. The "nice shop" atmosphere, combined with the helpful and friendly staff, creates a welcoming environment that encourages repeat visits. While taste is subjective, as shown by the mixed review on one specific ice cream flavor, the overall consistent quality and broad appeal of Sanders' products cement its status as an indispensable part of the Michigan sweet landscape. We highly recommend every Michigander experience the delightful traditions and treats at Sanders Chocolate & Ice Cream Shoppe in Rochester.

Sanders Chocolate & Ice Cream Shoppe - Rochester

436 S Main St, Rochester, MI 48307, USA