Donut Connection open in Tenley Court
It seemed winter was never-ending for Chuck Davidson, owner of the new Donut Connection in Tenley Court, but snow was just another obstacle prolonging the official launch of this new business.
Taking over a building that was formerly a crab house and then a Mexican restaurant, Davidson had his work cut out for him when he acquired the building nearly two years ago and began doing renovations himself.
Ripping out water-damaged, crabby floorboards was just the start for the second-generation donut dealer, who has also put a drive-thru window, tile flooring and dining room seating in the landmark location on southbound Coastal Highway in early March.
Now that the snow has melted and business is building, Davidson said he is looking forward to his first summer season at this location.
Offering nearly 30 varieties of donuts and pastries along with fresh-brewed coffee at the eat-in or drive-thru donut shop, Davidson said he’s happy to bring some life, and business back to the long-dormant location.
“We have the best donuts around,” he said. “We are hoping to expand our drinks to espresso and smoothies, breakfast and lunch sandwiches, fresh, made-to-order.”
The donut business is a family tradition, he said, and the Davidsons have owned donut shops throughout Sussex County since 1972, when his parents, Chuck Sr. and Elva Davidson opened the old Mr. Donut in Midway.
After they sold that business, Davidson said his family went on to open several other Donut Connection locations throughout Sussex County and most recently he has been operating the location and bakery on Route 9 himself, he said.
And now that the weather has broken, Davidson said he expects to offer new treats and incentives such as an espresso and smoothie bar that he has in-the-works, building the family business for his children, Olivia, Cadence, Chandler and Clarice.
"Look at the location, it’s on the southbound lane, an easy in - and easy access to the drive-thru" Davidson said of the new shop in Tenley Court. “Sunrise and sunset is beautiful every day.”
For more information about the newest location of Donut Connection, open at 6 a.m, daily in Tenley Court, call 302-703-6571.
