Groceries - Other

Discover the Best Novelty Grocery and Fun Food Shops in the UK — From Menkind to Gourmet Sweets

Why novelty groceries are booming in the UK

Have you noticed how snacks and grocery items have turned into conversation pieces? From weird jellybeans that test your courage to boutique chocolate bars that taste like holiday memories, novelty groceries have become a big part of gifting, party planning, and impulse buys. People don’t just want food — they want an experience. That’s why stores that blend fun, flavor, and design are popping up and gaining attention across the UK.

What makes something a "novelty" grocery item?

Novelty groceries are products designed primarily to surprise, amuse, or offer a unique sensory experience. Think gag snacks, edible party props, limited-edition flavors, and packaged foods with playful branding. They’re not just about taste; they tell a story, provoke a reaction, or make a great social-media-ready moment. In other words, they're the quirky cousin of your everyday biscuit tin.

Menkind: a go-to for quirky edible gifts and games

If you’ve shopped for novelty gifts in the UK you’ve likely run into Menkind. Known for gadgets and playful presents, Menkind stocks edible novelty items and game-food hybrids that are perfect for parties or stocking fillers. Their range often blends toys and treats — exactly the kind of crossover that turns snack time into an event.

Beanboozled 6th Edition — the jellybean game that started a thousand reactions

One standout is the Beanboozled 6th Edition jellybean game, a product designed to be as much a challenge as a snack. Each jellybean can taste heavenly or horrifically surprising — and that unpredictability is the point. At under an ounce per serving, Beanboozled is a compact, shareable experience that’s ideal for game nights and prank-loving crowds. It’s a product that shows how food can be playful, social, and a little bit daring.

Other UK stores to explore for novelty groceries

While Menkind is a headline name for novelty gifts, the UK market is full of other stores that fit this fun-food category. Whether you want gourmet sweets, themed snack bundles, or rare imports, there’s something for every taste and budget. Here are several reliable shops worth checking out.

Hotel Chocolat — upscale chocolate with adventurous twists

Hotel Chocolat combines craft chocolate with imaginative flavor pairings. Their seasonal and limited-edition bars — think salted caramel with chili or cocoa infused with unusual botanicals — make for impressive presents. Packaging is often sleek, making these bars feel like more than a sweet treat; they’re a tasting experience worth savoring.

Candy Kittens — modern sweets with a gourmet edge

Candy Kittens has reimagined classic sweets with better ingredients, upscale packaging, and flavors that feel grown-up. Their bags often weigh a few ounces and are perfect for gifting or sharing. The brand has a strong Instagram-friendly aesthetic, which helps novelty items feel current rather than kitschy.

British Corner Shop — a window into quirky British favorites

The British Corner Shop curates a range of traditional and unusual British grocery items, including regional sweets, limited-run confections, and nostalgic treats. If you’re hunting for rare tins of biscuits or unique seasonal sweets that remind you of childhood or local festivals, this is a great place to browse.

Lakeland — the kitchen shop with pantry surprises

Lakeland is best known for kitchenware, but their food and pantry section often includes specialty baking ingredients, novelty mixes, and gift-ready food items. If you like making experiences at home — such as a DIY dessert station for kids or a quirky baking kit for a friend — Lakeland has options that marry practicality and fun.

How to choose a novelty grocery for parties and gifts

Picking the right novelty item depends on the crowd. Is your audience competitive teens, nostalgic parents, or foodies who love unique flavors? Here are a few guidelines to help you land the right pick every time.

Match the product to the audience

For a family game night, choose shareable items like small candy games or multi-pack snack samplers. For adult gatherings, pick gourmet novelties — single-origin chocolate pieces or artisanal crisps that spark conversation. Always think: will this item be eaten, shared, or chuckled over?

Consider presentation and portability

Novelty groceries often serve a dual purpose as gifts, so size and packaging matter. Compact items that weigh a couple ounces and fit into a gift bag are practical. Similarly, resealable packs make it easier for guests to snack over time rather than finishing everything in one sitting.

Budgeting and hunting for deals across UK stores

Novelty doesn't always mean expensive. You can find fun and affordable items that deliver a big smile without breaking the bank. Keep an eye on seasonal sales, clearance shelves, and multi-buy offers, especially around holidays and major events.

Where to find bargains

High-street retailers often clear novelty stock after seasonal peaks, so you can score items at reduced prices that still have plenty of life left. Also, check online-only promotions and bundle deals. Buying a set of themed snacks often reduces the cost per item and gives you variety for less money.

Safety, allergens, and labeling — what to watch for

Novelty foods are fun, but they still require the same vigilance as any other edible product. Packaging should clearly list ingredients, allergens, and any warnings. For parties where people have nut allergies, gluten sensitivities, or dietary restrictions, always check the label before serving or gifting.

Common allergen checks

Look for clear statements about nuts, dairy, soy, eggs, and gluten. Even products marketed as “fun” or “games” must include this information. If the packaging isn’t explicit, consider avoiding the product at mixed-company gatherings — it’s better to be safe than sorry.

Seasonal and limited-edition novelty food items — timing matters

One reason novelty groceries feel exciting is scarcity. Limited runs, seasonal flavors, and holiday-themed packaging create urgency. If you know a product will be in demand, act fast — items can disappear within weeks once social media picks them up. Follow favorite brands and stores on social channels or subscribe to a newsletter to get early access announcements.

How to spot true limited editions

Brands often mark items clearly as "limited edition" or reference a specific season, festival, or collaboration. If you encounter a unique flavor or special pack size, snap it up — especially if you plan to use it as part of a themed event or gift hamper.

Where to buy rare imports and international novelty treats

If you’re chasing rare or international novelty groceries, look beyond mainstream retailers. Specialist importers and independent confectioners often stock hard-to-find candies, regional snacks, and nostalgic items from other countries. These are the kind of treats that become conversation starters at gatherings.

Tips for importing novelty treats

Check any import restrictions and be mindful of shelf life when ordering from overseas. For perishable items, ensure shipping times are short and packaging is secure. Smaller packages in the 2–8 ounce range are typically easier to ship and store safely for gifting purposes.

DIY novelty grocery ideas — make your own edible surprise

Feeling crafty? You can create custom novelty grocery experiences at home. Try creating mystery flavor boxes, handmade candy mixes, or themed snack stacks. Homemade novelty treats add a personal touch, and they’re often more memorable than shop-bought items.

Simple DIY novelty projects

One easy project is a "mystery tasting box" with small portions in sealed, numbered pouches. Use familiar small jars or bags — each holding 1–2 ounces — and label them for a guessing game. Another idea is customized chocolate bars: buy plain chocolate, add toppings like crushed biscuits or spices, and wrap them in printed paper for a personal, premium feel.

Sustainability and ethical choices in novelty groceries

Novelty doesn’t have to mean disposable. Many brands are improving packaging, sourcing ethical ingredients, and reducing waste. Choosing sustainably produced options helps the planet and makes novelty foods feel better to give and eat.

Look for ethical badges and recyclable packaging

Keep an eye out for fair-trade chocolate, recyclable boxes, and minimal plastic use. Brands that disclose ingredient origins and production methods usually care about quality as much as fun. That way your novelty treat doesn’t leave a big environmental hangover.

Conclusion

Novelty groceries are more than impulse buys — they’re mood-makers, conversation starters, and memorable gifts. From Menkind’s playful edible game ideas like the Beanboozled 6th Edition to gourmet chocolate houses and indie candy makers, the UK offers a wide landscape of fun food choices. Whether you’re buying for a party, a novelty-loving friend, or just to try something wildly different, remember to match the item to the audience, check labels for safety, and act fast on limited runs. With a little planning and a sense of adventure, you can turn ordinary snack time into a small celebration.