News Summary
The closure of ‘The Chocolate Tree’ in Beaufort, South Carolina, marks the end of a cherished 45-year legacy. Known for its unique treats, the confectionery had become a beloved community staple. The decision to close, made by the current owners after significant challenges, has left many customers reflecting on the sweet memories shared at the shop. While the future remains uncertain, the community hopes for a potential reopening.
Beaufort Confectionery ‘The Chocolate Tree’ Closes After 45 Years
Beaufort, South Carolina, is mourning the permanent closure of The Chocolate Tree, a cherished confectionery that served the community for 45 years. The store officially closed its doors on May 30, 2025, marking the end of an era for chocolate lovers and families alike.
Originally opened in 1980 by Pat Green and her husband as a hobby, The Chocolate Tree quickly became a local favorite among residents and visitors. Its unique selection of treats, including iconic pecan turtles and sand dollars, along with homemade sweets, made it a staple in the Lowcountry. As the years went by, The Chocolate Tree built a loyal customer base, many of whom considered the confectionery a symbol of their family traditions.
The closure of the store has elicited a wave of sadness from its customers, especially long-time visitors who have shared countless memories at the establishment. One regular customer from Michigan noted that The Chocolate Tree was a highlight of his family’s annual vacations to Beaufort, demonstrating the store’s deep connection with generations of patrons.
Pat Green emphasized the store’s growth was largely due to the repeat customers who transformed into friends, highlighting the strong community ties fostered over the years. In recent years, however, The Chocolate Tree faced significant challenges, particularly those brought on by the pandemic, which affected business operations and events like the popular All-You-Can-Eat Chocolate Night.
Leading up to its final day, The Chocolate Tree hosted a farewell sale offering 50% off chocolates, drawing in many last-minute customers eager to grab their last sweets from the beloved shop. Despite the challenges of the past few years, the closure was a decision made by the current owners, Pat Green’s nephews, following the passing of Joy King, one of the store’s previous owners.
While the doors may have closed, there is still a glimmer of hope for The Chocolate Tree’s future. Some customers and community members have expressed a desire to see the shop reopen. Although social media buzz includes unconfirmed rumors of a potential renovation and reopening, no official plans have been verified by Pat Green or her son.
The emotional impact of the closure weighs heavily on Pat Green, who referred to the business as her “baby.” She, along with many other community members, shared a collective sense of loss as they reflected on the decades of memories created at The Chocolate Tree. The legacy of the store and its sweet treats will undoubtedly endure in the hearts of those who cherished it.
The Chocolate Tree not only served as a place to purchase confections but also as a gathering spot for families and friends, contributing to the warm community spirit beloved by Beaufort residents and visitors alike. As the town moves forward, the cherished memories of this iconic confectionery will remain, reminding many of the sweet moments shared over chocolate in the heart of the Lowcountry.
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HERE Resources
Beaufort Chocolate Shop to Close After 45 Years
The Chocolate Tree Closes After 45 Years in Beaufort
The Chocolate Tree to Close After 44 Years in Beaufort
The Chocolate Tree Closes After 45 Years in Beaufort
Additional Resources
- Your Island News
- Wikipedia: Chocolate
- WSAV News
- Google Search: Chocolate Tree Beaufort
- Explore Beaufort SC
Author: STAFF HERE BEAUFORT
The HERE Beaufort Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Beaufort community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background: Local Roots in Beaufort : Our team includes lifelong Beaufort residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent sale of the historic Crofts Block Building, Beaufort’s equestrian heritage, and growth in local tech and education sectors (e.g., BeaufortTechnical College programs). Collective Experience: With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Beaufort Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality: Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
