Dunkin' Donuts

I settle into the pink and orange eatery. A Halloween display is still standing, along with the relevant decorations. Christmas lights don’t magically disappear after the 25th, after all; they might as well let us enjoy the holiday (and limited time only treats) a little longer. I come up to the counter, expecting a mediocre, mindless experience, but I am treated with something much more.

The cashier smiles and asks for my choice of fare; a simple, yet earnest gesture in today’s disconnected and de-emotionalized times. I browse the choices before me: unlike many other “fast food” restaurants, Dunkin’ Donuts has its main dishes, the donuts, made fresh in baskets, so that you can see what you buy, rather than having an inedible replica presented to you on a menu, as IHOP does with its pancakes apparently made of motor oil, shaving cream, and cardboard, if what is depicted is taken at face value.

There are many colorful options, but I choose the simple chocolate glazed donut, my favorite since childhood. The body of the donut is warm and firm, and is just fluffy enough to taste like the clouds. The glaze melts in my mouth, perfectly complementing the dough and giving a sweet burst that does not overindulge the senses. Although some may have preferences

for other donut places, Dunkin’ Donuts delivers a consistent experience every time, out of all my times going there.

Next is the egg breakfast sandwich, which as it was being prepared gave me time to finish my donut, fortunately. The chef calls my order number, and I walk up to receive my sandwich. The sandwich arrives on a typical English muffin, as well as some cheese in the middle.

As I take a bite, the egg, cheese, and bread create a flavor so expertly crafted that I would not be able to tell the difference from one made here and one made in an artisan’s restaurant. The egg is perfectly cooked and blended, and the cheese is just the right consistency. The egg and the cheese create a unique umami flavor which accounts for the ubiquity of this simple meal. I quickly finish off the sandwich and turn my attention to the last (and for some, the most important) item: the coffee.

I have never liked coffee. Every time I have some, it is as acidic as a car battery, and I always end up throwing it out, whether it is hot or cold. However, I was willing to take a chance with this cup. I decided to have the coffee black and downed a sip.

As soon as I took the first sip, I understood why Dunkin’ was able to compete with Starbucks, one of the largest and most established coffee franchises. The flavor was smooth and balanced, and the acidity was played down to a milder citrus effect. The liquid felt like silk, and I had no regrets drinking it. Unlike most coffees, there was a tangy aftertaste, which was a pleasant surprise, since most coffees are just bitter and nothing else.

As I savored my coffee, I took a glance at my environment. There was someone on a laptop, probably studying, and two others were having a chat. The warm air of the kitchen drifted

over us like a thick blanket. This place is a comforting oasis from the outside world, and it is a place where I felt truly at ease. As there were no incoming customers, a waiter approached me and asked how the food was; I replied that all was well, which is truly was.

Dunkin’ Donuts is a gem in a sea of coal. The employees were friendly, the food was excellent, and the venue provided a place to wind down and relax. Although some may criticize it for being a fast food restaurant, that just means that this sanctuary is available to the masses, which is definitely for the better. Whenever I need a place to collect my thoughts, I know where to go.

This coffee and donuts shop is a place worth regularly visiting, and the food is highly above average. I still hate coffee, but I will always have some whenever I grab a bit to eat at Dunkin’ Donuts.

Dunkin’ Donuts.

24560 Dulles Landing Dr Unit 110

Dulles, VA, 20166