By: Jessica Lee
Ton Mao opened Doughfee Donuts and Coffee in the summer of 2023 with a mission rooted in his personal experience. Inspired by his son, who is on the autism spectrum, Mao set out to create a space that is both accessible and welcoming to families, individuals with sensory sensitivities, and others who may benefit from a more inclusive environment.
The café, known for its reasonably priced donuts, coffee, and savory items, has quickly developed a reputation as a community-oriented business. Its atmosphere emphasizes comfort and flexibility, with an approach that accommodates a wide range of needs and backgrounds.
Kingston, Mao’s son, has played a visible role in shaping the café’s identity. According to Mao, the idea for Doughfee originated one evening when Kingston was playing with Play-Doh and began forming small donut shapes. It was this moment that inspired the concept behind the business.
Today, Kingston remains involved in the café, and his influence is reflected in menu items. The “Kingston Meal” is named after his favorite meal to eat—chicken tenders and fries.
Doughfee also serves as a platform for local collaboration. Mao displays flyers and information from nearby small businesses throughout the café, encouraging community engagement. A shelf near the entrance features work from local artists, providing them with an opportunity to showcase and sell their creations. This effort has helped foster connections across a diverse group of entrepreneurs and creatives in the area.
The menu also reflects Mao’s cultural background. Items like ube cheesecake donuts and savory options like egg rolls highlight Asian-inspired flavors. A Cambodian-style donut, described as soft with a candied glaze, is among the café’s most popular items and is inspired by Mao’s grandmother. Other menu staples, including a spam sandwich, continue to draw regular customers.
Through its combination of personal storytelling, cultural representation, and community engagement, Doughfee has established itself as more than a typical neighborhood café. Its focus on inclusivity and local support has contributed to a growing customer base, many of whom return not only for the food but also for the sense of belonging the space aims to provide.