The Donut Friar
The Donut Friar in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, is a small yet iconic bakery located in The Village Shops, a charming European-inspired shopping area nestled in the heart of Gatlinburg. For over five decades, The Donut Friar has been serving up freshly made donuts, pastries, and other sweet treats to both locals and tourists. Known for its warm and inviting atmosphere, delicious offerings, and rich history, The Donut Friar has become a must-visit destination for anyone with a sweet tooth visiting the Smoky Mountains. This article delves into the history, menu offerings, customer experience, and cultural significance of The Donut Friar, showcasing why it continues to be a beloved spot in Gatlinburg.
The History of The Donut Friar
Founding and Early Years
The Donut Friar was established in 1969, making it one of Gatlinburg’s oldest and most cherished establishments. It was founded by Erna and Joe Wehrley, who wanted to create a small bakery that would serve fresh, homemade donuts and pastries to the people of Gatlinburg. The Wehrleys’ vision was to provide high-quality baked goods in a cozy, welcoming environment where customers could feel at home. The Donut Friar quickly gained a reputation for its delicious treats and friendly service, becoming a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
The Village Shops: A Perfect Setting
The Donut Friar is located in The Village Shops, a picturesque shopping area designed to resemble a quaint European village. The unique setting, with its cobblestone streets, old-world architecture, and beautiful landscaping, provides the perfect backdrop for The Donut Friar. The bakery’s charming location within The Village has contributed to its appeal, drawing customers in not just for the delicious donuts, but also for the ambiance and experience of visiting this special place.
Growth and Continued Success
Over the years, The Donut Friar has continued to thrive, becoming a Gatlinburg institution. Despite the growth of the town and the increasing number of dining options, The Donut Friar has remained a constant, beloved for its consistency, quality, and warm hospitality. The bakery has stayed true to its original recipes and traditions, which has helped it maintain its loyal customer base while also attracting new visitors. Today, The Donut Friar is not just a place to buy donuts; it’s a part of the Gatlinburg experience, and a stop at the bakery is considered a must for anyone visiting the area.
The Menu: A Sweet Selection of Treats
The Donuts: The Heart of the Menu
The Donut Friar’s name makes it clear that donuts are the main attraction, and the bakery certainly delivers on this promise. The donuts at The Donut Friar are made fresh daily using time-honored recipes and high-quality ingredients. Each donut is crafted with care, resulting in a product that is light, fluffy, and perfectly sweet.
Classic Donuts
The classic donuts at The Donut Friar are simple, yet incredibly satisfying. Some of the most popular options include:
- Glazed Donut: The quintessential donut, covered in a sweet glaze that gives it a beautiful shine and delicious flavor. The Glazed Donut is a customer favorite for its simplicity and perfection.
- Chocolate Iced Donut: A light and fluffy donut topped with a rich chocolate icing. This donut is a hit with chocolate lovers and pairs perfectly with a cup of coffee.
- Cinnamon Sugar Donut: A donut coated in a mixture of cinnamon and sugar, offering a warm, comforting flavor that is especially popular during the cooler months.
Specialty Donuts
In addition to the classic varieties, The Donut Friar also offers a selection of specialty donuts that are sure to delight. Some of the standout options include:
- Bavarian Cream-Filled Donut: A soft, fluffy donut filled with creamy Bavarian custard and topped with a dusting of powdered sugar. This donut is rich and indulgent, making it a favorite among those who enjoy a cream-filled treat.
- Apple Fritter: A hearty, slightly crunchy donut filled with chunks of apple and topped with a sweet glaze. The Apple Fritter is a popular choice for those looking for something a bit more substantial.
- Cinnamon Twist: A twisted donut coated in cinnamon sugar and fried to perfection. The Cinnamon Twist is a fun and flavorful option that is perfect for sharing (or enjoying on your own!).
Pastries and Baked Goods
While donuts are the main draw, The Donut Friar also offers a variety of other pastries and baked goods, each made with the same attention to detail and commitment to quality.
Eclairs and Cream Puffs
For those looking for something a bit more decadent, The Donut Friar’s eclairs and cream puffs are a must-try. The eclairs are filled with rich custard and topped with a layer of chocolate icing, while the cream puffs are light and airy, filled with sweet whipped cream. Both options are perfect for those who enjoy a pastry that is both indulgent and satisfying.
Croissants and Danish Pastries
The Donut Friar also offers a selection of croissants and Danish pastries, each made with buttery, flaky pastry dough. The croissants are light and tender, perfect for enjoying on their own or with a bit of jam. The Danish pastries are filled with fruit or cream cheese and topped with a drizzle of icing, offering a sweet and flavorful treat that pairs perfectly with a cup of coffee or tea.
Muffins and Scones
For those who prefer something a bit heartier, The Donut Friar’s muffins and scones are a great choice. The muffins are moist and flavorful, with options like blueberry, banana nut, and chocolate chip. The scones are slightly dense and crumbly, with a subtle sweetness that makes them perfect for enjoying with a hot beverage.
Beverages: Coffee, Tea, and More
No visit to The Donut Friar is complete without a hot beverage to accompany your sweet treat. The bakery offers a selection of coffee, tea, and other drinks to complement their baked goods.
Freshly Brewed Coffee
The Donut Friar serves freshly brewed coffee that is the perfect complement to their donuts and pastries. Whether you prefer a simple cup of black coffee or a creamy latte, the coffee at The Donut Friar is always rich, flavorful, and satisfying.
Specialty Coffees and Teas
In addition to their regular coffee offerings, The Donut Friar also serves specialty coffees and teas, including cappuccinos, espressos, and a variety of herbal and flavored teas. These drinks are perfect for warming up on a chilly day or for enjoying alongside one of the bakery’s sweet treats.
The Dining Experience: Cozy and Inviting
A Warm and Welcoming Atmosphere
One of the things that sets The Donut Friar apart is its warm and welcoming atmosphere. The bakery is located in The Village Shops, a quaint and picturesque area that feels like a step back in time. The interior of The Donut Friar is cozy and inviting, with wood-paneled walls, vintage decor, and the comforting smell of freshly baked goods filling the air. Whether you’re stopping in for a quick treat or sitting down to enjoy a leisurely breakfast, the ambiance at The Donut Friar makes every visit feel special.
Friendly and Attentive Service
The staff at The Donut Friar are known for their friendly and attentive service, creating an environment where customers feel like they’re part of the family. From the moment you walk in the door, you’re greeted with a smile and made to feel welcome. The staff are always happy to offer recommendations, answer questions, or simply chat with customers about their favorite donuts and pastries. This level of personalized service has helped The Donut Friar build a loyal customer base and has made the bakery a beloved part of the Gatlinburg community.
A Popular Spot for Locals and Tourists
The Donut Friar is a favorite among both locals and tourists, and it’s not uncommon to see a mix of regulars and first-time visitors enjoying their treats together. The bakery’s convenient location in The Village Shops makes it an easy stop for those exploring Gatlinburg, and its reputation for delicious donuts and pastries ensures that it’s always busy, especially during peak tourist seasons. Despite the crowds, the service at The Donut Friar is always efficient, and the staff work hard to ensure that every customer has a positive experience.
Planning Your Visit to The Donut Friar
Location and Accessibility
The Donut Friar is conveniently located in The Village Shops, in the heart of downtown Gatlinburg. The Village Shops is a charming shopping area that is easily accessible to both locals and tourists. The bakery is within walking distance of many hotels, shops, and attractions, and there is ample parking available nearby. The Donut Friar is also accessible to guests with mobility challenges, with ramps and accessible seating available.
Hours of Operation
The Donut Friar is open early in the morning, making it the perfect spot for a quick breakfast or a mid-morning snack. The bakery typically opens at 5:00 AM, allowing early risers to grab a fresh donut and a cup of coffee before starting their day. The Donut Friar closes in the early afternoon, so it’s recommended to visit in the morning to ensure that you get your pick of the freshest donuts and pastries. It’s also a good idea to check the bakery’s website or call ahead for the most up-to-date hours of operation, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Tips for Visitors
To make the most of your visit to The Donut Friar, consider the following tips:
- Arrive early: The bakery is popular, and it can get busy, especially on weekends and during peak tourist seasons. Arriving early will help you avoid long lines and ensure that you get the freshest donuts.
- Bring cash: The Donut Friar is a cash-only establishment, so be sure to bring cash with you when you visit. There are ATMs located nearby if you need to withdraw money.
- Try the specialties: While everything on the menu is delicious, be sure to try some of the bakery’s specialties, such as the Bavarian Cream-Filled Donut, the Apple Fritter, and the Cinnamon Twist.
- Enjoy the ambiance: Take the time to soak in the cozy, old-world atmosphere of The Village Shops, and don’t hesitate to chat with the friendly staff, who are always happy to share stories and recommendations.
The Donut Friar in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, is more than just a bakery—it’s a cherished part of the Gatlinburg experience and a symbol of Southern hospitality. With its delicious donuts, cozy atmosphere, and friendly service, The Donut Friar has earned its place as one of the town’s most beloved establishments. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a loyal regular, a stop at The Donut Friar is sure to be a highlight of your trip to the Smoky Mountains. As it continues to serve up fresh, homemade donuts and pastries, The Donut Friar will remain a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Gatlinburg.
