A rising doughnut chain is about to bring small batch, layered ‘cronuts’ to Lexington
Lexington is about to get a little sweeter and a bit flakier: A new doughnut chain that specializes in layered croissant-style “cronuts” is coming to town.
Parlor Doughnuts, which started in Evansville, Ind., in 2019, will be coming to 630 Euclid Ave., next to Kroger. It will be the first Kentucky location of the rapidly growing chain.
The spot most recently was Tandoor Express, which opened in 2018 and closed during the pandemic.
Before that, it was an Uncle Maddio’s Pizza that opened in 2016 and closed after about a year.
The new cafe, which will sell doughnuts as well as coffee, is expected to open around December, according to franchise owner Nathan Schaffner.
Parlor Doughnuts’ doughnut menu offers two dozen specialty flavors such as Strawberry Shortcake, Maple Bacon and Bourbon Caramel. Keto, gluten-friendly and vegan versions are available, as well as special dog doughnuts.
Other flavors are added seasonally. And there’s even a secret menu with items like the Princess Doughnut, a flaky layered doughnut dipped in strawberry glaze, topped with whipped topping, marshmallows and sprinkles.
The doughnuts are made fresh daily in small batches, according to the web site. The offerings aren’t cheap: A single doughnut is about $2.75, a dozen costs about $24.
The menu also includes specialty coffees, juice, seasonal kombucha, acai bowls and breakfast items including breakfast tacos.
Then there are the Doughboy Milkshakes in the same flavors as their specialty doughnuts.
Parlor Doughnuts was started by Darrick Hayden and his son Noah, along with restaurateur Josh Tudela, who brought together their passions for high quality doughnuts and specialty coffee.
And they’ve quickly found a following: It isn’t unheard of for fans to wait outside in line for up to an hour to get doughnuts.
The chain has at least a dozen locations in seven states, with 14 more coming. This summer, one opened in Fort Worth, Texas, one opened in Pawleys Island, S.C., two in Nashville, and one in Miramar Beach, just outside of Destin, Fla., a popular vacation spot in the Florida panhandle.
A third Florida location was recently announced for Pensacola. According to the news release, “Parlor’s goal is to efficiently deliver superior product, at a moderate price, with exceptional service, in a comfortable setting. The shop will feature vintage Americana with a modern twist to attract professionals, millennials, young families, and seniors looking for an experience.”
Paul Bair, director of franchise development for Parlor Doughnuts, said that they’ve had multiple inquiries for more Kentucky locations but wanted to go into Lexington first.
“Lexington makes a great one with UK and that market,” Bair said of the nearby University of Kentucky. “We’re excited to be coming to be coming to the community.”
