Sydney’s favourite donut shop is closing down for good: ‘We are so sorry’
Sydney’s food scene has suffered another bitter blow from inflation, with a beloved Marrickville spot officially closing its doors at the end of July.
The owner of Donut Papi emotionally stated a sentiment that many small business owners across Australia know all too well as he announced the shocking impending closure.
“To be perfectly honest, it’s a tough game. It’s not for the faint of heart. I’m very proud of Donut Papi for turning nine and for obvious reasons why we’re closing,” owner Kenneth Rodrigueza said in his announcement to fans.
The reasons were so obvious that they weren’t even worth mentioning.
The cost of living crisis has forced many Australians to cut back on small luxuries, such as barista-made coffee or dining out, as their disposable income shrinks.
As a result, many cafes, restaurants and small businesses are closing their doors β some of which have been in business for decades β due to rising operational costs combined with fewer people spending money.
The beloved candy store was hugely popular with fans for its crazy decorated and ingenious tasting creations.
The chorus of despair on social media was universal, with one user happily and regularly making the 50-plus minute drive to Marrickville from Hornsby and wondering why.
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The beloved candy store was hugely popular with fans for its insanely decorated and ingeniously flavored creations
Many loyal fans from Donut Papi’s early days in Redfern also took to social media to express their heartbreak.
“I can never eat another donut for the rest of my life but Donut Papi because you guys are literally the best. I am so dedicated,” said one customer.
This was a huge compliment for a company that started out nine years ago with a modest market stall in Sydney.
Customers will miss the divine donuts that came in more classic flavors such as caramel apple fritters, Redfern jam, the strawberry milkshake with sprinkles and the tempting Bavarian cream.
Thai milk tea, exotic pandan coconut glaze and the ube polvoron β which was frozen in an alien-looking purple color β were some of Donut Papi’s more unusual creations.
The strawberry milkshake donut was a customer favorite
It wasn’t just the toppings that dazzled: one customer said the donut itself was the fluffiest and most divine donut he’d ever tried, “it doesn’t even need any icing.”
Donut Papi fans also remembered the iced matcha latte float, which was topped with a creamy scoop of Mapo Gelato’s Fior Di latte.
Die-hard fans refused to accept that July was the end.
One woman said, βthanks for the donut memories. Best donuts me and my husband have ever had. I still hope you come back one day.β
This isn’t the only closure breaking the hearts of Sydney guests.
Celebrity chef Kylie Kwong closed her restaurant Lucky Kwong in Everleigh in June after 24 years in business.
Iconic Sydney dining bastion Tetsuya’s will also cease operations at the end of July after an even longer 37 years of service.
If you want to enjoy Marrickville’s most famous donuts one last time, you can visit Donut Papi until the end of July.
Donut Papi is located at 139 Marrickville road, Marrickville, Sydney, Australia 2204.
Open Wednesday through Sunday from 10am to 5pm, or until sold out.