Voodoo Doughnut, the iconic doughnut chain renowned for its unique and whimsical treats, has officially opened its doors in Seattle’s Capitol Hill neighborhood. This much-anticipated location began serving its famous doughnuts at 8 a.m. on Tuesday, marking a significant expansion for the beloved brand, which originally started in Portland, Oregon.
The new Seattle outlet is strategically located just across the Interstate 5 overpass from the Seattle Convention Center, making it a convenient stop for locals and visitors alike. With operating hours from 6 a.m. to 3 a.m. daily, the Capitol Hill location promises to satisfy late-night cravings and early-morning sweet tooth urges.
Patrons can expect to see the signature bright pink boxes of Voodoo Doughnut making their rounds throughout the Hill and beyond, bringing a touch of Portland’s quirky charm to Seattle. Among the artistic decor, a striking black-velvet painting of local hip-hop legend Sir Mix-A-Lot pays homage to the city’s vibrant music scene.
In a gesture of community support, Voodoo Doughnut has partnered with FareStart, a local nonprofit known for its commitment to combating homelessness and poverty through culinary training and job placement. For the grand opening, the doughnut shop pledged to donate 20% of the day’s sales to FareStart, highlighting its intention to make a positive impact in the Seattle community.
Chris Schultz, CEO of Voodoo Doughnut, expressed enthusiasm about the new venture, stating, “We’re not just opening a store; we’re joining a community. Our partnership with FareStart underscores our commitment to making a positive local impact.” This sentiment was echoed by Patrick D’Amelio, CEO of FareStart, who remarked, “By working together, we can transform more lives through the power of food, job training, and community.”
The collaboration between Voodoo Doughnut and FareStart is set to be an ongoing relationship. Discussions are already underway regarding potential employment opportunities for FareStart graduates at the new doughnut shop, as well as volunteer initiatives where Voodoo staff can engage with FareStart students.
FareStart has been making strides in the Seattle area by providing free culinary education to individuals facing homelessness and economic hardships. Their flagship FareStart Restaurant in Denny Triangle and a café in South Lake Union serve not only as training grounds but also as community hubs. The organization is known for its successful Guest Chef Nights, which will resume next month, featuring a lineup of prominent Seattle chefs.
Since its inception in 2003, Voodoo Doughnut has garnered a cult following, particularly for its inventive flavors and eye-catching designs. The original location in Portland often sees long lines of eager customers ready to indulge in the doughnut chain’s signature offerings, such as the beloved bacon-topped maple bar.
With the opening of its Capitol Hill location, Voodoo Doughnut aims to replicate its success in Seattle, providing locals with a taste of its unique creations. The expansion reflects a growing trend of food establishments prioritizing community engagement and social responsibility, as seen through its partnership with FareStart.
As Voodoo Doughnut settles into its new home in Seattle, fans of the brand can look forward to not only delicious treats but also a commitment to fostering positive change in the local community.
