Enjoying Sweet, Lovable Treats at Yelm’s Kawaii Donut House
Even if you’re not a pop culture guru, chances are you’ve heard the word kawaii. Meaning more than just cute, one source explains that it “has been translated as meaning ‘cute,’ ‘adorable,’ ‘sweet,’ ‘precious,’ ‘pretty,’ ‘endearing,’ ‘darling,’ and even ‘little.’ Its use varies in Japanese and can refer to babies, puppies, young people, clothing, and even senior citizens. In Japanese, one might refer to one’s own grandma as kawaii, even if she’s not decked out in pink bows and a frilly dress.” Kawaii items are everywhere, from snack foods with charmingly simplified smiling faces to pigtailed heroines.
Knowing that, what’s more kawaii than homemade flower-shaped donuts decorated with glazes, sprinkles, and toppings? Or cool, rich gelato alongside the sweetness of bubble tea? At Kawaii Donut House, a family-run business from the delicious minds behind Yelm’s Red Lantern Asian Fusion, your sweet tooth will say arigatou.
Owner Tiffany Lin, who moved to the United States from Taiwan in 2000, says the name and adorable donut-themed logo were created by her 10-year-old son Brandon Pham. Kawaii Donut House makes frilly-looking, uniquely crafted confections which are some of his favorite treats. Husband Hung Pham was also a supporter of the idea, and so they decided to jump right in.
Lin is a big fan—and long-time user—of the Thurston Economic Development Council’s (EDC) educational resources and was excited to hear about the Target Zone Small Business Startup Grants. Target Zone Grants were made available through the US Department of Treasury under the American Rescue Plan Act and funded through Thurston County. The Thurston EDC administered and managed the grants and mentored applicants through the process. She applied and received their funding quickly, which was a huge bonus. They used grant monies for everything from equipment to payroll and even the purchase of ingredients for their namesake fan-favorites. “It was my dream to open a dessert shop,” Lin explains. “This grant helps my dream come true!”
Until they choose their ideal location, Kawaii Donut House exists on a pop-up calendar, making appearances at community events, as well as selling through Red Lantern’s shopfront on Fridays and Saturdays while supplies last. “We are planning to open in the Olympia area,” says Lin. “We did a Jazz in the Park event in Yelm, and people loved our mochi donuts and bubble tea.”
Even without a dedicated store, customers love the texture of their fresh donuts. Lin hopes to introduce specialty flavors like Thai or chai tea, coffee, or pairings like mango and strawberry, matcha and mango, or taro and coconut.
She encourages other entrepreneurs and culinary daydreamers to take a chance, just like they’ve done over the years. “Thurston County is very helpful to small businesses,” Lin says, “and they provide many classes which help business owners.”
Follow Kawaii Donut House on Facebook or Instagram, and be sure to come to celebrate with the family once they’ve chosen the perfect bricks-and-mortar spot. Social media also lists the current flavors offered for sale through Red Lantern, including cookies and cream, cinnamon, matcha, chocolate, and cinnamon-sugar. Donuts sell out fast, so don’t wait too long if there’s a combo you’ve been eagerly waiting to try. Better yet, grab a dozen to get you safely through the work week. Grab two and bring a box to the office; your coworkers will thank you.
CNN writer Joshua Paul Dale said that kawaii “communicates the unabashed joy found in the undemanding presence of innocent, harmless, adorable things.” We could all use a joyous pick-me-up but may not be able to afford the 10+ hour flight, hotels, and tour guides. We can, however, splurge on a donut, and thanks to Kawaii Donut House, a fresh batch is just around the corner…but you’d better hurry before someone else snags the last one.