PHILADELPHIA – A viral sensation is coming to Reading Terminal Market with the opening of Wilt’s Chocolate Smothered Berries. Wilt’s will model their chocolate-covered berry operation after Turnips at Borough Market in London, whose product has taken the internet by storm. Fresh, sweet strawberries will be piled high in a cup and covered in premium milk chocolate melted and dispensed from rare Italian chocolate machines.
“The team behind Wilt’s came to us with a concept proven in another major public market and a vision for implementing it here in Philadelphia efficiently and effectively,” said Annie Allman, CEO and General Manager, Reading Terminal Market. “We know our customers want fresh, quality products and they want them quickly and conveniently. Wilt’s Chocolate Smothered Berries will offer just that.”
Owners Alex Flack, Nick Sordoni, and Stephen Hudacek, all from Wilkes-Barre, broke into the Philadelphia dining scene with three Brooklyn Dumpling Shop locations in 2023 and 2024. The trio started Wilt’s Chocolate Smothered Berries as a seasonal festival stand and started thinking about a brick-and-mortar location after seeing fast success.
“We are very passionate about being part of Reading Terminal Market,” said Nick Sordoni. “All of us have been coming to the Market with our families for years, and we’re looking forward to being part of one of the most special places in the world.”
With a vision centered on nostalgia and theater, the new operation will prioritize speed and offer a short and sweet menu of fresh-cut strawberries in a 16-ounce cup topped with free-flowing milk chocolate. Wilt’s will offer local strawberries in season and otherwise source from California, Florida, Ohio, and Canada. The operation will consider growing to add dark chocolate, white chocolate, whipped cream, and toppings as it adapts to the demands of customers.
Wilt’s Chocolate Smothered Berries expects to open in late May and operate seven days a week from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Their sweet treats can be found at the intersection of aisles B and 2.
