LEECHBURG, PA — Goat Donut Co., a local favorite, is set to celebrate its grand reopening on November 1, introducing an exciting new lunch menu and extending its hours. The business, founded by Jeremy Smail and his wife, Ashley Coudriet, in February 2022, has seen significant growth and adaptation since its inception.
Originally, Smail envisioned the shop as a charming spot on Market Street where residents could enjoy craft doughnuts and coffee. “We didn’t have a solid plan; we just wanted to create something fun for the town,” he explained.
As foot traffic proved lower than expected, the couple made strategic changes. They extended their hours, expanded the menu, and added an ice cream bar to attract more customers.
To further enhance the business, they hired Ronni Venturini as general manager. At 56, Venturini brings valuable restaurant experience, having previously owned a café in Bethel Township until it closed due to the pandemic in July 2020. She joined Goat Donut in May and quickly implemented updates to the shop’s payment systems.
Venturini proposed introducing soups and sandwiches, as well as extending shop hours. “My wife and I support her decisions and give her full control,” Smail noted. He emphasized the couple’s reliance on Venturini’s expertise to guide the business.
The grand reopening event will kick off at 10 a.m. and promises a family-friendly atmosphere with activities for children, live music, and free samples. The new lunch menu will feature a variety of soups, salads, and housemade sandwiches, including Reubens and pastrami on rye.
“Customers can choose between hoagies, paninis, or wraps,” Venturini said, highlighting the flexibility of the new offerings. Food will be prepared and served from the shop’s ice cream bar.
The new hours will extend from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., with the sandwich bar opening at 10 a.m. Venturini arrives at 7 a.m. daily to prepare fresh cookies, danishes, croissants, and doughnuts. On Thursdays and Fridays, a part-time baker will assist in making cinnamon rolls and bagels.
With the expanded hours, Venturini has hired additional part-time staff and will oversee the sandwich stand throughout the day. Adjustments to shifts will be made as the team adapts to the new schedule.
Smail expressed optimism that the new menu and longer hours will help the business thrive. “Our goal isn’t to make a ton of money but to keep the storefronts filled and the downtown vibrant,” he stated.
Both Smail and Coudriet are deeply committed to the Alle-Kiski Valley community. Smail serves as a Gilpin supervisor, while Coudriet is a member of the Leechburg Area School Board. They also own several local properties, including the Portage Inn and White Rock Station.
“We love the Valley,” Smail added, underscoring their dedication to the area.
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