The east coast’s first Voodoo Doughnut has opened in Orlando with a lineup of 50-plus kinds of eccentric doughnuts. Co-founders of the Portland-based doughnutery with a cult-like following — Kenneth “Cat Daddy” Pogson and Tres Shannon — formally celebrated the launch at Universal CityWalk with a grand opening, where the Baron of Voodoo Doughnut (their brand icon) was unveiled for the first time live and in person.
Orlando marks the eighth location for Voodoo Doughnut, which initially announced a shop was coming to Universal Orlando Resort in January. It also continues Pogson and Shannon’s partnership with Universal Parks & Resorts, as their Universal Studios Hollywood location opened more than a year ago.
Located near NBC Sports Grill & Brew and the entrance to Universal Studios, Voodoo Doughnut Orlando has a bold, whimsical look. The shop showcases artwork from Portland locals, alongside two features exclusive to CityWalk: a huge doughnut throne and a decorating counter, where customers can watch the preparation of various toppings and icing designs.
On top of vegan-friendly alternatives, menu highlights include the self-explanatory bacon maple bar; Grape Ape topped with vanilla frosting, grape dust and lavender sprinkles; and the venerable Voodoo Doll filled with raspberry jelly and finished with chocolate frosting and a pretzel stake.
There’s even a three-dozen option — aptly known as the Coffin of Doughnuts (no, seriously, go with this if you want your order packaged in a handmade wooden coffin) — for guests who are feeling particularly indulgent.
Road trip, anyone?
This article appears in Apr 26 – May 3, 2018.
