After a brief hiatus, ‘Dutch Girl Donuts’ has made a triumphant return to Detroit, drawing massive crowds and enthusiastic cheers from its loyal patrons.
The reopening of the beloved donut shop, situated on Woodward Avenue at 7 Mile Road, was met with overwhelming excitement on Friday morning. Despite the long lines that extended onto the sidewalk, the atmosphere was filled with joy and anticipation as customers eagerly awaited their turn to indulge in their favorite treats.
Originally established in 1947, Dutch Girl Donuts holds a special place in the hearts of Detroit residents. Following its closure in September 2021, fans mourned the loss of the iconic establishment, made even more poignant by the passing of its longtime owner, Gene Timmer, shortly thereafter.
Now, under new ownership, the hope was to preserve the distinctive taste and charm that made Dutch Girl Donuts a local institution. According to longtime enthusiast and WWJ reporter Charlie Langton, the reopening did not disappoint, with the donuts living up to their legendary reputation.
The grand reopening was akin to a festive celebration, with patrons in line exchanging stories and laughter as they eagerly awaited their turn. Among the crowd were members of the Detroit Police Department’s 12th Precinct, who jokingly acknowledged the longstanding association between law enforcement and donut shops.
For many like Cameron Smith, the return of Dutch Girl Donuts is a welcome addition to their daily routine. Smith, who stumbled upon the bustling scene while en route from the gym, quickly joined the queue, eager to satisfy his craving for the delectable treats.
Nelly Kendrick, a lifelong fan of Dutch Girl Donuts, arrived bright and early, driven by nostalgia and a deep-seated love for the signature pastries. Her early morning wake-up call was a testament to the enduring appeal of the beloved establishment, which has been a part of her life since childhood.
Even amidst the hustle and bustle, the spirit of joy and camaraderie prevailed, as demonstrated by David Chambers, who serenaded the crowd with a playful blues-inspired tune, capturing the shared sentiment of anticipation and delight surrounding the reopening of Dutch Girl Donuts.